Recent Patents on Nanotechnology最新文献

RNA-based therapeutics, such as RNA interference (RNAi) and mRNA therapies, have shown significant potential in treating diseases like cancer, genetic disorders, and respiratory conditions. However, an ongoing challenge is the efficient and targeted delivery of RNA to specific cells while minimizing toxicity and off-target effects. This review examines recent advancements in nanoparticle( s) (NPs) delivery systems, with a focus on RNA-coated liposomes, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and size- and surface-modifiable NPs, aiming to overcome the challenges associated with RNA delivery. We also explore the impact of specific patents in this field. The relevant information was collected from the scientific literature. We discussed various NP platforms and their applications, such as RNA-coated liposomes for oral cancer treatment, dry powder formulations of mRNA-loaded LNPs for pulmonary delivery, and LNP-mediated siRNA delivery for respiratory infections. We also explore NP optimization strategies, such as lipid tail modifications for RNA cargos like mRNA and CRISPR/Cas9. These NP-based systems have led to advancements in tumor targeting, intracellular delivery, and RNA release, demonstrating their promise in RNA therapeutics. Relevant patents, such as WO2016044478A1, which details the use of AAV vectors for treating MYOC glaucoma with RNAi targeting MYOC; WO2011158933A1, which describes a siRNA-based pharmaceutical composition for renal fibrosis using liposomes with retinol as a targeting agent; and WO2019173787A1, which specifies bacterial-toxin-derived constructs for oral siRNA delivery, further validate the progress in RNA delivery technologies. Despite these advancements, challenges such as targeting efficiency, endosomal escape, stability, immune system interactions, and scalability still remain. Continued innovation in RNA nanotechnology, drawing on insights from recent patents, is crucial for developing more effective and personalized RNA-based therapies.

The recent rapid progress in artificial intelligence (AI) and the processing of big data imposes a strong demand to explore novel approaches for robust and efficient hardware solutions. Neuromorphic engineering and brain-inspired electronics take inspiration from biological information pathways in neural assemblies, particularly their fundamental building blocks and organizational principles. In contrast, resistive switching in memristive devices is widely considered an electronic synapse with potential applications in in-memory computing and vector-matrix multiplication. Further aspects of brain-inspired electronics require exploring both organizational principles from individual building units towards connected networks, as well as the resistive switching properties of each unit. In this context, nanogranular matter made of nano-objects, such as nanoparticles or nanowires, has gained considerable research interest due to emergent brain-like, scale-free switching dynamics originating from the self-organization of its building units into connected networks. In this study, we review resistive switching in nanogranular matter featuring metal nanoparticles as their functional building blocks. First, common deposition strategies for nanoparticles, as well as nanoparticle-based nanocomposites, are discussed, and challenges in the investigation of their inherited resistive switching properties are addressed. Secondly, an overview of resistive switching properties in nanogranular matter, ranging from individual nanoparticles over sparse nanoparticle arrangements to highly interconnected nanogranular networks, is provided. Finally, concepts and examples of information processing using nanoparticle networks are outlined.

Background: The method of laser deposition of metal nanoparticles from a solution has been considered a promising approach for various applications in microelectronics since the end of the 20th century. Laser-assisted liquid deposition is characterized by very low process rates (millimeters per hour) and high electrical resistance-2-5 orders of magnitude higher than the original materials. This creates obstacles to the development of an efficient and economically attractive technology. In recent years, researchers have been actively looking for other applications for this promising method.

Objective: Therefore, we focused on another side effect of the process: the active release of gas phases of unsaturated hydrocarbons and hydrogen during the reaction. The goal was to explore the potential use of the effect of organic catalysis, which accompanies laser reactions in a liquid medium, in hydrogen energy and controlled organic synthesis.

Methods: The experiments were conducted with respect to water-organic alcohol mixtures of glycerin and isopropanol. V, Zr, Pb, Mo, Zn, and Nb were used as the tested nanocatalysts. A new laboratory laser setup based on a articulated scanner was used to conduct the experiment, allowing the process speed to be increased by 10,000 times. Liquid aqueous-organic phases were studied using GC-MS analysis methods, the gas atmosphere was studied using a portable quadrupole gas mass spectrometer (MS90-400), solid-phase surfaces were studied using a Scanning electron SUPRA 25 microscope, and gravimetric analysis was used.

Results: The results largely confirmed the assumptions regarding the high catalytic activity of metal nanoparticles formed as a result of two competing reactions occurring simultaneously in the laser beam focus in the solution. These are the reactions of liquid laser ablation of metal (PLAL) and liquid laser deposition of metal (LCLD). These reactions lead to the dehydrogenation of saturated hydrocarbons and water, resulting in the formation of hydrogen and unsaturated hydrocarbons. At the same time, a layer of nanoparticles of deposited metal is formed on the solid surface.

Conclusion: This opens up a new potential application for the process: a laser-assisted method for generating hydrogen with the simultaneous generation of unsaturated hydrocarbons for organic synthesis. This is accompanied by the recovery of trace amounts of precious metals, as demonstrated for gold. All three processes are environmentally friendly, which increases the potential positive impact of their practical application after scale-up.

This editorial article explores the emerging field of AI-based nanotechnology, emphasizing its potential to transform various industries. It details how AI's data-processing capabilities synergies with nanotechnology's manipulation at the nanoscale. Within the medical field, for instance, this synergy has the potential to facilitate precise cancer treatment and early disease detection. The field of manufacturing also stands to benefit from the optimization of nanomaterial production. The article goes on to discuss the potential of AI-based 3D printing and MEMS applications, highlighting the enhancement of capabilities that these technologies offer. Notwithstanding the challenges, including data misuse and integration issues, that are ethically and technically complex, the potential benefits justify the risks. The article calls for collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and industry to foster responsible research and development and to unlock the full potential of this transformative combination, offering solutions to global challenges.

This paper provides an in-depth look at the latest developments in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) technology. It focuses on the use of special materials, like polyaniline (PANI), graphene oxide (GO), and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). These materials improve the efficiency and stability of solar cells, and this study offers significant insights into their characteristics and practical uses. This article examines major trends in material selection, structural optimization, and manufacturing procedures by juxtaposing results from scientific literature with advancements in the patent arena, addressing the issues of developing next-generation solar cell designs. We examine the synergistic effects of PANI's stability, GO's electrical conductivity, and CNTs' mechanical strength, highlighting their roles in enhancing light absorption, charge transfer efficiency, and overall device longevity. Bibliometric data from sites, like Scopus and Lens.org, indicate substantial advancements in energy conversion efficiency and decreases in charge transfer resistance. Patents, like WO 2020 and EP3824-B1, illustrate the increasing significance of flexibility, resilience, and scalability in solar cell designs. Biopolymer-based electrolytes made from chitosan, guar gum, and starch are examples of sustainable solutions that show better ionic conductivity and mechanical stability, making them eco-friendly choices. This paper highlights the significance of nano and microfillers in enhancing electron mobility and minimizing resistive losses. Practical implementations, including photovoltaic chargers and flexible solar panels, illustrate the conversion of theoretical advancements into functional technologies. The study delineates future research avenues, promoting the utilization of nanocomposites and catalytic materials to enhance solar cell performance and thus facilitate sustainable and scalable energy solutions to address escalating global energy demands.

This study investigates the most recent advancements in the field of biomedical soft robotics, with a primary emphasis on the integration of nanomaterials and nanotechnology. It underscores the biocompatibility, flexibility, and performance of soft robots by emphasizing critical advancements in nanomaterials, robotics, and biomedical applications. Nanomaterials can improve the biocompatibility and mechanical qualities of soft robots used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Nanotechnology enables the development of flexible and elastic electronics, which may be integrated into soft robotics. This study also analyzes recent patents, offering a viewpoint on emerging technologies and their potential impact on medical diagnostics, therapeutic delivery systems, and minimally invasive procedures. The scientific developments and patents with the functioning and operating mechanisms of soft robots, as well as the problems of constructing biomedical soft robots with nanomaterials and nanotechnology, are examined in this critical study. Moreover, it also examines current advancements, patents, technological challenges, and future trends in nanomaterials and nanotechnology used in biomedical soft robotics.

Background: Single-Atom Catalysts (SACs) are heterogeneous catalysts that demonstrate exceptional efficiency and selectivity due to the use of individual metal atoms at the atomic scale. The substantial number of patents filed on SACs underscore their commercial and technological importance, highlighting their potential across various industries. SACs are increasingly applied in areas such as energy generation, environmental applications, and chemical synthesis, reflecting their growing scientific and technical importance.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of existing literature on SACs and the use of bibliometric analysis to identify scientific output and topic patterns of research on SACs.

Methods: A bibliometric analysis was performed on 488 papers related to SACs, utilizing the Web of Science database of data collection. Analysis of Co-occurrence of keywords, trending research topics, Citation analysis, Publication areas, the five-year record of Publications, and funding sources were examined using VOS viewer, R software, and Microsoft Excel.

Results: The analysis indicates a steady growth in publication on SACs in recent years, with China leading in research output followed closely by the USA. The highlighting of the global impact and the collaborative nature of SAC research. The study reveals a diverse range of applications and emphasizes the increasing scientific and technical focus on this subject.

Conclusion: This study highlights the essential role of SACs in advancing catalytic science and maps key trends, collaborations, and applications within the field. The bibliometric insights provide valuable guidance for the researchers, pointing to potential applications in energy storage, environmental remediation, and sustainable chemical synthesis. Emerging challenges, such as stability, scalability, and the development of new materials, call for further investigation to unlock the full potential of SACs. These insights support future innovation and exploration in the expanding field of SAC research.

Neuromorphic circuits and devices have been introduced in the last decades as elements of a key strategy for developing of new paradigms of computation, inspired by the intent to mimic elementary neuron structure and biological mechanisms, for the overcoming of energy and timeconsuming bottlenecks achieved by digital computing (DC) technologies. Although the term "neuromorphic" is in common use, its meaning is often misunderstood and indistinctly associated with many different technologies, based on both conventional and unconventional electronic components and architectures. Here an overview of the different technological strategies used for developing neuromorphic computing systems is proposed, with an insight on the neuromorphic features they implement and a special focus on the technological strategies and patents that exploit unconventional computing paradigms.

The increase in computational power demand led by the development of Artificial Intelligence is rapidly becoming unsustainable. New paradigms of computation, which potentially differ from digital computation, together with novel hardware architecture and devices, are anticipated to reduce the exorbitant energy demand for data-processing tasks. Memristive systems with resistive switching behavior are under intense research, given their prominent role in the fabrication of memory devices that promise the desired hardware revolution in our intensive data-driven era. They are suggested to provide the hardware substrate to scale up computational capabilities while improving their energy expenditure and speed. This work provides an orientation map for those interested in the vast topic of memristive systems with application to neuromorphic computing. We address the description of the most notable emerging devices and we illustrate models that capture the complex dynamical behavior of these systems under the dynamical-systems framework developed by Chua. We then review the memristive behavior under the perspective of statistical physics and percolation theory suited to describe fluctuations and disorder which are otherwise precluded in the dynamical-system approach. Percolation theory allows the investigation of these systems at the mesoscopic level, enabling material-independent modeling of non-linear conductance networks. We finally discuss recent and less recent successes in deep learning methods that bridge the field of physics-based and biological- inspired neuromorphic computing.

Background: Thin Film Transistors (TFTs) are increasingly prevalent electrical components in display products, ranging from smartphones to diagonal flat panel TVs. The limitations in existing TFT technologies, such as high-temperature processing, carrier mobility, lower ON/OFF ratio, device mobility, and thermal stability, result in the search for new semiconductor materials with superior properties.

Objective: The main objective of this present work is to fabrícate the efficient Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Thin Film Transistor (TFT) for flat panel display.

Methods: Carbon Nano-Tubes (CNTs) are a promising semiconductor material for TFT devices due to their one-dimensional structure and exceptional characteristics. In this research work, the CNTTFTs have been fabricated using nano-fabrication techniques with a spin process. The fabricated devices have been characterized for structural, morphological, and electrical characteristics.

Results: The 20 μm channel length and 30 μm channel width fabricated device produces about 1.3 nA, which lies in the practical range of operating TFTs reported previously. Compared to reported patents and published works, this demonstrates a significant improvement.

Conclusion: Further guidelines and limitations of this fabrication method are also discussed for future efficient device fabrication.