Statistical morphological identification of low-dimensional nanomaterials by using TEM

Nanomaterials with low-dimensional morphology display unique properties in catalysis and related fields,which are highly dependent on the structure and aspect ratio.Thus,accurate identification of the structure and morphology is the basis to correlate to the performance.However,the widely adopted techniques such as XRD is incapable to precise identify the aspect ratio of low-dimensional nanomaterials,not even to quantify the morphological uniformity with statistical deviation value.Herein,ZnO nanorod and nanosheet featured with one-and two-dimensional morphology were selected as model materials,which were prepared by the hydrothermal method and statistically characterized by transmission electron microscopy(TEM).The results indicate that ZnO nanorods and nanosheets display rod-like and orthohexagnal morphology,which mainly encapsulated with{100}and{001}planes,respectively.The 7.36±0.20 and 0.39±0.02 aspect ratio(c/a)of ZnO nanorods and nanosheets could be obtained through the integration of the(100)and(002)diffraction rings in selected area electron diffraction(SAED).TEM combining with the SAED is favorable compare with XRD,which not only provides more accurate aspect ratio results with standard deviation values but also requires very small amounts of sample.This work is supposed to provide a convenient and accurate method for the characterization of nanomaterials with low-dimensional morphology through TEM.

STRENGTH, PLASTICITY, INTERLAYER INTERACTIONS AND PHASE TRANSITION OF LOW-DIMENSIONAL NANOMATERIALS UNDER MULTIPLE FIELDS

Atoms are hold together to form different materials and devices through short range interactions such as chemical bonds and long range interactions such as the van der Waals force and electromagnetic interactions. Quantum mechanics is powerful to describe the short range interactions of materials at the nanometer scale, while molecular mechanics and dynamics based on empirical potentials are able to simulate material behaviors at much large scales, but weak in handling of processes including charge transfer and redistributions, such as mechanical-electric coupling of functional nanomaterials, plastic deformation~ fracture and phase transition of nano- materials. These issues are also challenging to quantum mechanics which needs to be extended to van der Waals distance and larger spatial as well as temporal scales. Here, we make brief review and discussions on such kind of mechanical behaviors of some important functional nanomaterials and nanostructures, to probe the frontier of nanomechanics and the trend to multiscale physical mechanics.

Nanomaterials-mediated lysosomal regulation:a robust protein-clearance approach for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating,progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive accumulation of abnormal proteins,including amyloid plaques and intracellular tau tangles,primarily within the brain.Lysosomes,crucial intracellular organelles responsible for protein degradation,play a key role in maintaining cellular homeostasis.Some studies have suggested a link between the dysregulation of the lysosomal system and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases,including Alzheimer’s disease.Restoring the normal physiological function of lysosomes hold the potential to reduce the pathological burden and improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.Currently,the efficacy of drugs in treating Alzheimer’s disease is limited,with major challenges in drug delivery efficiency and targeting.Recently,nanomaterials have gained widespread use in Alzheimer’s disease drug research owing to their favorable physical and chemical properties.This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in using nanomaterials(polymeric nanomaterials,nanoemulsions,and carbon-based nanomaterials)to enhance lysosomal function in treating Alzheimer’s disease.This review also explores new concepts and potential therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer’s disease through the integration of nanomaterials and modulation of lysosomal function.In conclusion,this review emphasizes the potential of nanomaterials in modulating lysosomal function to improve the pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease.The application of nanotechnology to the development of Alzheimer’s disease drugs brings new ideas and approaches for future treatment of this disease.

Friction of low-dimensional nanomaterial systems

When material dimensions are reduced to the nanoscale,exceptional physical mechanics properties can be obtained that differ significantly from the corresponding bulk materials.Here we review the physical mechanics of the friction of low‐dimensional nanomaterials,including zero‐dimensional nanoparticles,one‐dimensional multiwalled nanotubes and nanowires,and two‐dimensional nanomaterials-such as graphene,hexagonal boron nitride(h‐BN),and transition‐metal dichalcogenides-as well as topological insulators.Nanoparticles between solid surfaces can serve as rolling and sliding lubrication,while the interlayer friction of multiwalled nanotubes can be ultralow or significantly high and sensitive to interwall spacing and chirality matching,as well as the tube materials.The interwall friction can be several orders of magnitude higher in binary polarized h‐BN tubes than in carbon nanotubes mainly because of wall buckling.Furthermore,current extensive studies on two‐dimensional nanomaterials are comprehensively reviewed herein.In contrast to their bulk materials that serve as traditional dry lubricants(e.g.,graphite,bulk h‐BN,and MoS_(2)),large‐area high‐quality monolayered two‐dimensional nanomaterials can serve as single‐atom‐thick coatings that minimize friction and wear.In addition,by appropriately tuning the surface properties,these materials have shown great promise for creating energy‐efficient self‐powered electro‐opto‐magneto‐mechanical nanosystems.State‐of‐the‐art experimental and theoretical methods to characterize friction in nanomaterials are also introduced.

Low-dimensional nanomaterial/Si heterostructure-based photodetectors

Due to its excellent electrical and optical features,silicon(Si)is highly attractive for photodetector applications.The design and fabrication of low-dimensional semiconductor/Si hybrid heterostructures provide a great platform for fabricating high-performance photodetectors,thereby overcoming the inherent limitations of Si.This review focuses on state-of-the-art Si heterostructure-based photodetectors.It starts with the introduction of three different device configurations,that is,photoconductors,photodiodes,and phototransistors.Their working mechanisms and relative pros and cons are introduced,and the figures of merit of photodetectors are summarized.Then,we discuss the device physics/design,photodetection performance,and optimization strategies for Si-based photodetectors.Finally,future challenges in the photodetector applications of Si-based hybrid heterostructures are discussed.

Preparation,Properties,and Applications of Low-Dimensional Molecular Organic Nanomaterials

In recent years, great progress has been made in research and development of small-molecule organic materials with various low-dimensional nanostructures. This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent research progress in this field, including preparation, electronic and optoelectronic properties and applications. First, an introduction gives to the reprecipitation, soft templates methods, and progress in synthesis and morphological control of low-dimensional small-molecule organic nanomaterials. Their unique optical and electronic properties and research progress in these aspects are reviewed and discussed in detail. Applications based on low-dimensional small-molecule organic nanomaterials are briefly described. Finally, some perspectives to the future development of this field are addressed.

Synthesis and Modulation of Low-Dimensional Transition Metal Chalcogenide Materials via Atomic Substitution

In recent years,low-dimensional transition metal chalcogenide(TMC)materials have garnered growing research attention due to their superior electronic,optical,and catalytic properties compared to their bulk counterparts.The controllable synthesis and manipulation of these materials are crucial for tailoring their properties and unlocking their full potential in various applications.In this context,the atomic substitution method has emerged as a favorable approach.It involves the replacement of specific atoms within TMC structures with other elements and possesses the capability to regulate the compositions finely,crystal structures,and inherent properties of the resulting materials.In this review,we present a comprehensive overview on various strategies of atomic substitution employed in the synthesis of zero-dimensional,one-dimensional and two-dimensional TMC materials.The effects of substituting elements,substitution ratios,and substitution positions on the structures and morphologies of resulting material are discussed.The enhanced electrocatalytic performance and photovoltaic properties of the obtained materials are also provided,emphasizing the role of atomic substitution in achieving these advancements.Finally,challenges and future prospects in the field of atomic substitution for fabricating low-dimensional TMC materials are summarized.

Laser spectroscopy imaging technique coupled withnanomaterials for cancer diagnosis: A review

Laser spectroscopic imaging techniques have received tremendous attention in the-eld of cancer diagnosis due to their high sensitivity,high temporal resolution,and short acquisition time.However,the limited tissue penetration of the laser is still a challenge for the in vivo diagnosis of deep-seated lesions.Nanomaterials have been universally integrated with spectroscopic imaging techniques for deeper cancer diagnosis in vivo.The components,morphology,and sizes of nanomaterials are delicately designed,which could realize cancer diagnosis in vivo or in situ.Considering the enhanced signal emitting from the nanomaterials,we emphasized their combination with spectroscopic imaging techniques for cancer diagnosis,like the surface-enhanced Raman scattering(SERS),photoacoustic,fluorescence,and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy(LIBS).Applications ofthe above spectroscopic techniques offer new prospectsfor cancer diagnosis.

Recent progress on Sn_(3)O_(4)nanomaterials for photocatalytic applications

Tin(IV)oxide(Sn_(3)O_(4))is layered tin and exhibits mixed valence states.It has emerged as a highly promising visible-light pho-tocatalyst,attracting considerable attention.This comprehensive review is aimed at providing a detailed overview of the latest advance-ments in research,applications,advantages,and challenges associated with Sn_(3)O_(4)photocatalytic nanomaterials.The fundamental con-cepts and principles of Sn_(3)O_(4)are introduced.Sn_(3)O_(4)possesses a unique crystal structure and optoelectronic properties that allow it to ab-sorb visible light efficiently and generate photoexcited charge carriers that drive photocatalytic reactions.Subsequently,strategies for the control and improved performance of Sn_(3)O_(4)photocatalytic nanomaterials are discussed.Morphology control,ion doping,and hetero-structure construction are widely employed in the optimization of the photocatalytic performance of Sn_(3)O_(4)materials.The effective imple-mentation of these strategies improves the photocatalytic activity and stability of Sn_(3)O_(4)nanomaterials.Furthermore,the review explores the diverse applications of Sn_(3)O_(4)photocatalytic nanomaterials in various fields,such as photocatalytic degradation,photocatalytic hydro-gen production,photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide,solar cells,photocatalytic sterilization,and optoelectronic sensors.The discus-sion focuses on the potential of Sn_(3)O_(4)-based nanomaterials in these applications,highlighting their unique attributes and functionalities.Finally,the review provides an outlook on the future development directions in the field and offers guidance for the exploration and de-velopment of novel and efficient Sn_(3)O_(4)-based nanomaterials.Through the identification of emerging research areas and potential avenues for improvement,this review aims to stimulate further advancements in Sn_(3)O_(4)-based photocatalysis and facilitate the translation of this promising technology into practical applications.

Constructing low-dimensional perovskite network to assist efficient and stable perovskite solar cells

The use of low-dimensional(LD)perovskite materials is crucial for achieving high-performance perovskite solar cells(PSCs).However,LD perovskite films fabricated by conventional approaches give rise to full coverage of the underlying 3D perovskite films,which inevitably hinders the transport of charge carriers at the interface of PSCs.Here,we designed and fabricated LD perovskite structure that forms net-like morphology on top of the underlying three-dimensional(3D)perovskite bulk film.The net-like LD perovskite not only reduced the surface defects of 3D perovskite film,but also provided channels for the vertical transport of charge carriers,effectively enhancing the interfacial charge transfer at the LD/3D hetero-interface.The net-like morphological design comprising LD perovskite effectively resolves the contradiction between interfacial defect passivation and carrier extraction across the hetero-interfaces.Furthermore,the net-like LD perovskite morphology can enhance the stability of the underlying 3D perovskite film,which is attributed to the hydrophobic nature of LD perovskite.As a result,the net-like LD perovskite film morphology assists PSCs in achieving an excellent power conversion efficiency of up to 24.6%with over 1000 h long-term operational stability.

Solution-processing approach of nanomaterials toward an artificial sensory system

Artificial sensory systems have emerged as pivotal technologies to bridge the gap between the virtual and real-world,replicating human senses to interact intelligently with external stimuli.To practically apply artificial sensory systems in the real-world,it is essential to mass-produce nanomaterials with ensured sensitivity and selectivity,purify them for desired functions,and integrate them into large-area sensory devices through assembly techniques.A comprehensive understanding of each process parameter from material processing to device assembly is crucial for achieving a high-performing artificial sensory system.This review provides a technological framework for fabricating high-performance artificial sensory systems,covering material processing to device integrations.We introduce recent approaches for dispersing and purifying various nanomaterials including 0D,1D,and 2D nanomaterials.We then highlight advanced coating and printing techniques of the solution-processed nanomaterials based on representative three methods including(i)evaporation-based assembly,(ii)assisted assembly,and(iii)direct patterning.We explore the application and performances of these solution-processed materials and printing methods in fabricating sensory devices mimicking five human senses including vision,olfaction,gustation,hearing,and tactile perception.Finally,we suggest an outlook for possible future research directions to solve the remaining challenges of the artificial sensory systems such as ambient stability,device consistency,and integration with AI-based software.

Advanced strategies for marine antifouling based on nanomaterial-enhanced functional PDMS coatings

Marine biofouling seriously affects human marine exploitation and transportation activities,to which marine antifouling(AF)coatings are considered to be the most cost-effective solution.Since the mid-20th century,human beings have dedicated their efforts on developing AF coatings with long cycle and high performance,leading to a large number of non-target organisms?distortion,death and marine environmental pollution.Polydimethylsiloxane(PDMS),is considered as one of the representative environment-friendly AF materials thanks to its non-toxic,hydrophobic,low surface energy and AF properties.However,PDMS AF coatings are prone to mechanical damage,weak adhesion strength to substrate,and poor static AF effect,which seriously restrict their use in the ocean.The rapid development of various nanomaterials provides an opportunity to enhance and improve the mechanical properties and antifouling properties of PDMS coating by embedding nanomaterials.Based on our research background and the problems faced in our laboratory,this article presents an overview of the current progress in the fields of PDMS composite coatings enhanced by different nanomaterials,with the discussion focused on the advantages and main bottlenecks currently encountered in this field.Finally,we propose an outlook,hoping to provide fundamental guidance for the development of marine AF field.

Recent progress on nanomaterial-based electrochemical dissolved oxygen sensors

Dissolved oxygen(DO)usually refers to the amount of oxygen dissolved in water.In the environment,medicine,and fermentation industries,the DO level needs to be accurate and capable of online monitoring to guide the precise control of water quality,clinical treatment,and microbial metabolism.Compared with other analytical methods,the electrochemical strategy is superior in its fast response,low cost,high sensitivity,and portable device.However,an electrochemical DO sensor faces a trade-off between sensitivity and long-term stability,which strongly limits its practical applications.To solve this problem,various advanced nanomaterials have been proposed to promote detection performance owing to their excellent electrocatalysis,conductivity,and chemical stability.Therefore,in this review,we focus on the recent progress of advanced nanomaterial-based electrochemical DO sensors.Through the comparison of the working principles on the main analysis techniques toward DO,the advantages of the electrochemical method are discussed.Emphasis is placed on recently developed nanomaterials that exhibit special characteristics,including nanostructures and preparation routes,to benefit DO determination.Specifically,we also introduce some interesting research on the configuration design of the electrode and device,which is rarely introduced.Then,the different requirements of the electrochemical DO sensors in different application fields are included to provide brief guidance on the selection of appropriate nanomaterials.Finally,the main challenges are evaluated to propose future development prospects and detection strategies for nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensors.

Advancements in the Research of Gold Nanomaterials for Radiation Therapy Sensitization

Gold nanomaterials exhibit unique advantages in tumor radiotherapy sensitization due to their enhanced X-ray deposition capability, excellent biocompatibility, and superior chemical, electronic, and optical properties. To date, studies on gold nanomaterial-mediated radiosensitization have been reported, with related mechanisms including catalyzing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, depleting intracellular glutathione (GSH), overcoming tumor hypoxia, and regulating cell cycles. This article will elaborate on the research progress of gold nanomaterial-mediated tumor radiotherapy sensitization and discuss its mechanisms and future research directions. In addition, the limitations of gold nanomaterials in clinical applications will be further discussed.

Nanomaterial‑Based Repurposing of Macrophage Metabolism and Its Applications

Macrophage immunotherapy represents an emerging therapeutic approach aimed at modulating the immune response to alleviate disease symptoms.Nanomaterials(NMs)have been engineered to monitor macrophage metabolism,enabling the evaluation of disease progression and the replication of intricate physiological signal patterns.They achieve this either directly or by delivering regulatory signals,thereby mapping phenotype to effector functions through metabolic repurposing to customize macrophage fate for therapy.However,a comprehensive summary regarding NM-mediated macrophage visualization and coordinated metabolic rewiring to maintain phenotypic equilibrium is currently lacking.This review aims to address this gap by outlining recent advancements in NM-based metabolic immunotherapy.We initially explore the relationship between metabolism,polarization,and disease,before delving into recent NM innovations that visualize macrophage activity to elucidate disease onset and fine-tune its fate through metabolic remodeling for macrophage-centered immunotherapy.Finally,we discuss the prospects and challenges of NM-mediated metabolic immunotherapy,aiming to accelerate clinical translation.We anticipate that this review will serve as a valuable reference for researchers seeking to leverage novel metabolic intervention-matched immunomodulators in macrophages or other fields of immune engineering.

Carbon-based nanomaterials cause toxicity by oxidative stress to the liver and brain in Sprague-Dawley rats

Carbon-based nanomaterials have important research significance in various disciplines,such as composite materials,nanoelectronic devices,biosensors,biological imaging,and drug delivery.Recently,the human and ecological risks associated with carbon-based nanomaterials have received increasing attention.However,the biological safety of carbon based nanomaterials has not been systematically studied.In this study,we used different types of carbon materials,namely,graphene oxide(GO),single-walled carbon nanotubes(SWCNTs),and multiwalled carbon nanotubes(MWCNTs),as models to observe their distribution and oxidative damage in vivo.The results of Histopathological and ultrastructural examinations indicated that the liver and lungs were the main accumulation targets of these nanomaterials.SR-μ-XRF analysis revealed that SWCNTs and MWCNTs might be present in the brain.This shows that the three types of carbon-based nanomaterials could cross the gas-blood barrier and eventually reach the liver tissue.In addition,SWCNTs and MWCNTs could cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the cerebral cortex.The increase in ROS and MDA levels and the decrease in GSH,SOD,and CAT levels indicated that the three types of nanomaterials might cause oxidative stress in the liver.This suggests that direct instillation of these carbon-based nanomaterials into rats could induce ROS generation.In addition,iron(Fe)contaminants in these nanomaterials were a definite source of free radicals.However,these nanomaterials did not cause obvious damage to the rat brain tissue.The deposition of selenoprotein in the rat brain was found to be related to oxidative stress and Fe deficiency.This information may support the development of secure and reasonable applications of the studied carbon-based nanomaterials.

Mapping the intellectual structure and emerging trends for the application of nanomaterials in gastric cancer:A bibliometric study

BACKGROUND Recent reviews have outlined the main nanomaterials used in relation to gastrointestinal tumors and described the basic properties of these materials.However,the research hotspots and trends in the application of nanomaterials in gastric cancer(GC)remain obscure.AIM To demonstrate the knowledge structure and evolutionary trends of research into the application of nanomaterials in GC.METHODS Publications related to the application of nanomaterials in GC were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection for this systematic review and bibliometric study.VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used for bibliometric and visualization analyses.RESULTS From 2000 to 2022,the application of nanomaterials in GC developed rapidly.The keyword co-occurrence analysis showed that the related research topics were divided into three clusters:(1)The application of nanomaterials in GC treatment;(2)The application and toxicity of nanomaterials in GC diagnosis;and(3)The effects of nanomaterials on the biological behavior of GC cells.Complexes,silver nanoparticles,and green synthesis are the latest high-frequency keywords that represent promising future research directions.CONCLUSION The application of nanomaterials in GC diagnosis and treatment and the mechanisms of their effects on GC cells have been major themes in this field over the past 23 years.

Recent advances in living cell nucleic acid probes based on nanomaterials for early cancer diagnosis

The early diagnosis of cancer is vital for effective treatment and improved prognosis. Tumor biomarkers, which can be used for the early diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic evaluation of cancer, have emerged as a topic of intense research interest in recent years. Nucleic acid, as a type of tumor biomarker, contains vital genetic information, which is of great significance for the occurrence and development of cancer. Currently, living cell nucleic acid probes, which enable the in situ imaging and dynamic monitoring of nucleic acids, have become a rapidly developing field. This review focuses on living cell nucleic acid probes that can be used for the early diagnosis of tumors. We describe the fundamental design of the probe in terms of three units and focus on the roles of different nanomaterials in probe delivery.

Nanomaterials for refining tumor microenvironment and enhancing therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a review

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent and lethal solid tumor with a high mortality rate. Conventional cancertreatments, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, primarily target cancer cell eradication. However, uncontrolled proliferation and metabolic activities of these cells result in abnormalities in nutrient levels, hypoxia, and immunosuppression within the tumor microenvironment (TME). These factors constrain the efficacy of traditional treatments by promoting drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Nanomaterials (NMs), such as nanozymes, can exhibit enzymatic activity similar to that of natural enzymes and offer a promising avenuefor the direct modification of the TME through catalytic oxidation-reduction processes. Moreover, they can serve as sensitizers or drug deliverycarriers, enhancing the efficacy of traditional treatment methods. Recently, NMs have garnered significant attention from oncologists. Thisreview begins with an overview of the composition and unique characteristics of the TME. Subsequently, we comprehensively exploredthe application of NMs in the treatment of HNSCC. Finally, we discuss the potential prospects and challenges associated with usingNMs in biomedical research.

Research Analysis on the Microscopic Properties and Damping Performance of Carbon Nanomaterial-Modified Cement Mortar

The application of carbon nanomaterials, particularly graphene and carbon nanotubes, in cement-based composites is highly significant. These materials demonstrate the multifunctionality of carbon and offer extensive possibilities for technological advancements. This research analyzes how the integration of graphene into cement-based composites enhances damping and mechanical properties, thereby contributing to the safety and durability of structures. Research on carbon nanomaterials is ongoing and is expected to continue driving innovation across various industrial sectors, promoting the sustainable development of building materials.