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Can crab shells provide a 'green' solution to malaria?

A non-toxic mixture of chitin-rich crab shell powder and silver nanoparticles effectively inhibits the growth of mosquito larvae and prevents bacterial species from multiplying. The eco-friendly solution shows promise in controlling the spread of disease-carrying mosquitoes, including those responsible for malaria.

SourceSpringer·JournalHydrobiologia·DateMay 11, 2017

Nanoparticles remain unpredictable

Researchers analyzed 270 studies and found a mixed picture of nanoparticles' behavior, with their reactions depending on acidity, mineral concentration, and organic substances. The data is inconsistent, insufficiently diverse, and poorly structured, hindering universal predictions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2017

Nanomagnets for future data storage

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to create nanoparticles with dysprosium atoms that can be magnetised and maintain their magnetic information. The scientists are now looking to stabilise the magnetisation at higher temperatures and longer periods of time.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 30, 2017

Bonding chips using inkjet printers

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have developed a new bonding technique for chips using inkjet printers with silver nanoparticles, enabling the creation of rigid and flexible hybrid circuitry. The method uses inkjet printing technology to assemble surface mount devices, achieving high electrical conductivity and reliability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 14, 2017

Lipid nanoparticles for gene therapy

Lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have shown increased effectiveness in delivering nucleic acids, with advantages including protection against degradation and boost to transfection process. Researchers are exploring their application in treating various diseases, including degenerative disorders of the retina, infectious diseases, and cancer.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics·DateFeb 14, 2017

Don't kill the messenger RNA

Researchers at Salk Institute use mRNA therapy to deliver instructions for clotting protein, achieving normal clotting and minimal immune response in mice. The therapy shows potential as a cost-effective and safer alternative to existing treatments for hemophilia B and other genetic diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 14, 2017

Direct radiolabeling of nanomaterials

Researchers have developed a direct radiolabeling method for nanomaterials using nanographene, eliminating the need for chelators. This approach significantly improves bioimaging accuracy and reduces biases. The method was tested in mice models and showed promising results.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 9, 2017