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Nanoparticles can grow in cubic shape

Scientists at the University of Helsinki and Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology have successfully grown iron nanoparticles in a cubic shape. The researchers used a mathematical model to understand the mechanisms behind this phenomenon, which is thermodynamically unexpected.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 4, 2016

Nanoparticles deliver anticancer cluster bombs

Scientists developed triple-stage nanoparticles that improve tumor penetration and release cisplatin in acidic conditions, enhancing its efficacy while reducing toxic side effects. The delivery system demonstrated significant improvements in anti-tumor activity against various cancer models.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2016

IBS team detects hot electrons in real time

The IBS team developed a graphene-semiconductor catalytic nanodiode that enables the detection of hot electrons on platinum nanoparticles in real time. This breakthrough allows researchers to study the electronic effect on catalytic activity and potentially design improved catalytic materials with lower costs.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 10, 2016

New insights into the evaporation patterns of coffee stains

Researchers have elucidated new factors influencing particle deposition via solvent evaporation, crucial for microchip production. The study found that interplay between solvent convection and nanoparticle collective diffusion governs particle recede at contact lines.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 9, 2016

Using mathematics to improve human health

Researchers used mathematical calculations to create a complete picture of protein nanoparticle surface morphology, identifying structures most advantageous for vaccine design. This approach may lead to the development of cost-effective vaccines, including a malaria vaccine set to start clinical testing soon.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateFeb 2, 2016

Tiny 'flasks' speed up chemical reactions

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have created miniature 'flasks' that can accelerate chemical reactions by trapping molecules in a highly selective manner. The dynamic and reversible clusters can be reused multiple times, making them useful for applications such as drug delivery and industrial manufacturing.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 7, 2016

Using nanoparticles to combat arteriosclerosis

A team of researchers developed a method for guiding replacement cells to diseased vascular segments using nanoparticles, which demonstrated promising results in mice. The fresh cells exert their curative effect in these segments by producing nitric oxide and regulating blood vessel expansion.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 6, 2016

Mixing modern materials? NIST math app helps you manage your mashup

Scientists at NIST developed a new recipe development tool using advanced math to predict the capabilities of polymer-nanoparticle mixtures. By modeling particle shapes more realistically, they created virtual nanoparticles that can analyze real-world particles and make general statements about their behavior in mixes.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateDec 22, 2015

Conducting gels -- from waste to wealth

Researchers at the University of York have developed a self-assembling gel that can selectively extract precious metals like silver and gold from electronic waste. The gel is then converted into conducting nanoparticles, enhancing its electrical conductance and making it suitable for various high-tech applications.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 9, 2015