Journal of Cluster Science最新文献

Arsenic, a highly toxic heavy metal, introduces substantial risks to human health, leading to conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, congenital anomalies, liver and kidney damage, arsenicosis, hemolysis, cancer, neurological issues, and painful skin lesions. Regular monitoring and development of effective remediation strategies are crucial for safeguarding human health and the environment. Current developments have emphasized the advancement of novel analytical methodologies for detecting toxic metal ions, with nanomaterials, particularly carbon-based materials, emerging as promising candidates. This review highlights the potential of zero-dimensional carbon dots (CDs) and inorganic quantum dots (QDs) as sensing material (sensors) for arsenic detection. It provides an in-depth advancement in the application of these nanomaterials for arsenic detection, underscoring their potential in environmental monitoring and public health protection.

Graphical Abstract

The exploitation of the ligand effect in directing the geometric/electronic structures of metal nanoclusters is of great significance in investigating their structure-property correlations at the atomic level. We herein successfully synthesized and structurally determined two structure-correlated silver nanoclusters, Ag₆(SPh^pF)₅(DPPF)₃ and Ag₇(SPhCl₂)₇(DPPF)₂ (DPPF = 1,1’-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene). Because of the mercaptan ligand effect, the geometric structure of Ag₇(SPhCl₂)₇(DPPF)₂ was similar to Ag₆(SPh^pF)₅(DPPF)₃ except that one Ag₁(SR)₂ motif in the former cluster was replaced by a bidentate DPPF ligand. The two silver nanoclusters displayed comparable optical absorptions, suggesting that the ligand effect influenced their electronic structures. Collectively, the research findings in this work introduce the mercaptan ligand effect in directing the structures of silver nanoclusters with low nuclearity.

The increasing demand for efficient and sustainable methods of environmental remediation highlights the need for advanced materials capable of addressing complex challenges, such as water pollution. Nanoparticles, with their unique physicochemical properties, have emerged as promising candidates for tackling these issues. In this paper, nanoparticles of selected metal carbonates (ZnCO₃, Ag₂CO₃, CuCO₃, Ag₂CO₃-ZnCO₃, CuCO₃-ZnCO₃) were prepared and characterized using XRD, SEM, SEM-EDS, STEM, FTIR, and BET methods. The average particle sizes ranged from 15.2 nm (for CuCO₃) to 87.7 nm (for CuCO₃-ZnCO₃), and the surface area was in the range of 7.8 m²/g (for Ag₂CO₃) to 55.5 m²/g (for CuCO₃), depending on the composition. The resulting nanoparticles were incorporated into a silicon-based polymer coating to investigate their potential application properties. The photocatalytic activity of both pure nanoparticles and those embedded in the polymer coating was tested for the degradation of an organic dye methylene blue (MB) in aqueous solution (initial MB concentration: 10 mg/dm³) under ultraviolet (UV) radiation over a period of 60 min. The results showed that the UV photocatalysis using carbonate nanoparticles effectively degraded the methylene blue dye, with the highest efficiency of 99.88% observed for Ag₂CO₃-ZnCO₃ in a powder form. Notably, the nanoparticles retained their high photocatalytic activity after encapsulation in the polymer coating, with Ag₂CO₃ achieving the highest efficiency of 91.67% in the composite material. The study confirms the successful synthesis of photocatalytically active nanoparticles that retain their activity when incorporated into a polymer matrix.

Bimetallic Copper oxide (CuO) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanocomposites have lagged behind other nanoparticles in terms of biological applications for cancer treatment. In physiologic environments, chemically generated nanoparticles frequently aggregate, which reduces their usefulness in biological contexts. The current study describes a straightforward and environmentally benign way of creating bimetallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) by utilizing seed extract from Bixa orellana to combine copper oxide (CuO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) (CuO-ZnO BMNCs). We assessed the cancer prevention characteristics of the biosynthesized bimetallic CuO-ZnO nanocomposites. Characterization of the CuO-ZnO BMNCs was performed using various techniques, with UV-Vis, FTIR, zeta potential, DLS, EDX, and SEM analyses. This investigation demonstrates the synthesis process, distinctive properties, antioxidant activity, and anticancer mechanisms of the nanocomposites, as well as their potential therapeutic applications. The UV–visible spectrum of CuO-ZnO BMNCs exhibited an absorption peak at 370 nm, confirming the formation of CuO-ZnO nanocomposites. The XRD analysis revealed the crystalline nature of the BMNCs, while SEM images demonstrated predominantly spherical particles with an average diameter of 119 nm. The impacts of CuO-ZnO BMNCs on HeLa cells were examined through cell viability, ROS activation, and apoptosis induction. The cell death was measured with an Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate assay, and cell cycle impact was evaluated by staining DNA with propidium iodide. Time-dependent cell death was observed with BO-Cu/ZnO BMNCs, showing a maximum inhibitory effect of 49 ± 1.34% at doses of 15 µg/mL or higher after 24 h of treatment. Additionally, CuO-ZnO BMNCs induced apoptosis in HeLa cells, with 54.12% of treated cells undergoing apoptosis at 15 µg/mL and a concurrent cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. These findings suggest that CuO-ZnO BMNCs could be a viable option for the development of novel cervical cancer therapies.

The problems that drug delivery systems (DDSs) frequently have—such as restricted drug loading capacity and uncontrolled drug release—can be addressed by metal organic frameworks (MOFs). In the current study, we investigate the development of Zr metal-organic framework (MOF) UiO-66 nanoparticles coated with folic acid-conjugated polyethylene glycol (UIO-66-EPI@PEG-FA) as a targeted delivery of Epirubicin (EPI) to breast cancer cells. A significant encapsulation efficiency was seen in the UIO-66-EPI@PEG-FA nanoparticles (75.33 ± 1.34%). The patterns of drug release demonstrated the pH-dependent behavior of the nanoparticle, with a release of approximately 62.6% at acidic pH (5.4) over 24 h, compared to 47.2% at physiological pH (7.4). As evidenced by flow cytometry results, apoptosis rate induced in MCF-7 cells by UIO-66-EPI@PEG-FA (40.9%) was found to be higher than that induced by free EPI (23.03%). Furthermore, wound healing assay showed that UIO-66-EPI@PEG-FA successfully inhibited cell migration, consolidating its role in preventing cancer progression. As evidenced by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, by decreasing the MMP-2 and MMP-9 genes’ expression levels as well as significant upregulation of pro-apoptotic markers (caspase-3, caspase-9, and mitofusin-1), the UIO-66-EPI@PEG-FA inhibited the growth of the malignancy by activating both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. DAPI-stained microscopy verified the flow cytometry study’s results, showing that the produced nanoparticle successfully induced death in cancer cells. The prepared MOF showed a notable selectivity for MCF-7 cancer cells and showed no discernible adverse effects on the MCF-10 A normal breast cell line. These findings provide important insights into the development of UIO-66-Epi@PEG-FA for targeted cancer treatment. However, developing a unique medicinal strategy requires extensive research, clinical trials, and regulatory procedures.

Graphical Abstract

A simple and environmentally friendly, facile solvent-free direct doping (FSFDD) approach was employed to synthesize sulfonated magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes (s-MMWCNTs) which in turn employed for the eliminating of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution. While prior studies have emphasized the synthesis and innovation points of s-MMWCNTs, this work delves into the fundamental adsorption behaviors (adsorption isotherm, kinetic, thermodynamic and mechanism analysis) to provide a deeper understanding of the interactions between the adsorbent and methylene blue (MB). The developed s-MMWCNTs were characterized by zeta potential analysis, transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET). Moreover, the characterization of spent s-MMWCNTs by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) were carried out to compare their characteristics to the freshly synthesized s-MMWCNTs. Results indicated that the Freundlich isotherm model was the best-fitted model, providing a maximum adsorption capacity of 44.64 mg g^− 1. As for the adsorption kinetic studies, the MB adsorption onto s-MMWCNTs was discovered to comply with the pseudo-second-order model. Besides, the thermodynamic results suggested that the adsorption process of MB onto s-MMWCNTs occurred endothermically with spontaneity. Furthermore, the adsorption mechanisms encompassed electrostatic interaction, hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking interaction with the electrostatic interaction as the most salient attractive force in the MB adsorption onto s-MMWCNTs.

Mango is a significant global fruit crop, producing over 1,000 million tonnes annually. However, postharvest losses due to pathogenic fungal infections are considerable, exacerbated by the continuous use of synthetic fungicides, which pose risks of fungal resistance and environmental harm. This study assessed the effectiveness of Origanum vulgare-based nanoemulsion against mango postharvest diseases and quality preservation. Results indicate that the O. vulgare nanoemulsion (Ore-S1-15) exhibited optimal properties, including small droplet size, low polydispersity, and stable pH. FTIR analysis identified key functional groups, while GC-MS results revealed prominent components with isopropyl myristate being the major constituent at 42.41%, followed by isopropyl palmitate (25.53%), oleic acid (4.57%), diethyl phthalate (3.84%), estagole (2.09%), 2-(phenylmethylene)-octanal (1.17%), cyclopentane acetic acid (0.85%), benzoic acid (0.34%), and coumarin (0.26%) as minor constituents. In vitro test of the Ore-S1-15 nanoemulsion against Curvularia sp. demonstrated significant antifungal activity, with 79.51 ± 0.95% conidia inhibition. Additionally, in vivo test showed a reduction in disease incidence on wounded mangoes. The Ore-S1-15 nanoemulsion enhanced quality parameters by delaying colour changes, reducing weight loss and steadily maintaining the total soluble solids. Thus, Ore-S1-15 nanoemulsion emerges as a promising and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fungicides for controlling mango postharvest diseases and increasing shelf life while preserving quality.

Spinel ferrites are magnetic materials that possess excellent magnetic properties, high surface area, high chemical stability, and tuneable characteristics, making them ideal for water purification. Owing to their multifunctionality and magnetic separation capability, these materials offer high adsorption efficiencies and rapid kinetics for removing pollutants such as metal ions, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, spinel ferrites and their nanocomposites, particularly those combined with carbon materials, show strong photocatalytic activity in degrading contaminants. These materials generate active radicals under visible and UV light, offering a low-cost, efficient solution for water treatment. While promising, further studies are needed to advance their practical application in water treatment plants. Despite their potential, a complete understanding of the degradation mechanisms and adsorption processes concerning emerging pollutants such as dyes, pharmaceuticals and microplastics, remains incomplete. This review critically examines factors influencing the performance of spinel ferrites, including particle size, shape, substitution, and functionalization, to provide insights into their molecular-level interactions with pollutants. It analyses how synthesis methods and material modifications, such as carbon coatings and substitutions, enhance photocatalytic degradation efficiency. Additionally, the review addresses magnetic separation techniques, durability over multiple cycles, and regeneration and reusability capabilities. By consolidating current knowledge and identifying research gaps, this comprehensive analysis aims to guide the future development of spinel ferrite-based purification technologies.

Within the framework of concept “spent adsorbent-to-photocatalyst conversion” clinoptilolite with sorbed of transition metals cations—silver, copper, manganese and chromium were tested for photocatalytic degradation of rhodamin B as a typical organic water pollutant. The physicochemical characteristics of these spent adsorbents were studied using XRD, UV-Vis and XPS spectroscopy, potentiometric titration and adsorption-desorption of nitrogen. It was established that the introduction of these cations into the clinoptilolite skeleton by ion exchange does not lead to the formation of a separate metal phase, but contributes to the formation of a meso-macroporous structure and the narrowing of the band gap (doping effect). As a result, such doped clinoptilolites have a higher photocatalytic activity under visible irradiation compared to the initial clinoptilolite, which is minimally active due to the presence of iron impurity. Therefore, a facile way of using the spent clinoptilolite adsorbents for photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants of water under visible illumination is proposed. The novelty of the obtained results is manifested in two aspects: scientific—the photocatalytic activity of clinoptilolites with a low content of doping transition metals (0.3–0.5%) under the action of visible irradiation, and practical—the possibility of using spent clinoptilolite cation exchangers for water purification from pollutants.

Many studies have reported the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with various shapes using plant extracts in a single step. However, there is limited research on controlling the morphology of AuNPs growing on specific crystal planes. In this study, planar AuNPs were synthesized at room temperature using the extract of the Taraxacum Officinale plant while avoiding exposure to natural light. Various concentrations of plant extract and precursor salt were tested during the synthesis process. The plant extract’s metabolites involved in the reduction and stabilization of the NPs were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The fluorescence spectroscopy of the AuNPs was also evaluated. Structural and morphological analysis of the samples was performed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) with the Rietveld method characterized the crystallite size and nanoparticle orientation. SEM and TEM results showed that increasing the plant extract concentration led to NPs with variable shapes due to an abundance of biomolecules in the extract. Also, higher precursor salt concentrations resulted in irregular planar NPs overlapping at specific crystallographic planes, generating a large surface area. XRD confirmed the AuNPs’ Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) lattice structure and verified the planar orientation at the {111} planes. ¹H-NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy revealed that the metabolites in the plant extract mainly consisted of reducing sugars. The most significant finding of this study was that these planar NPs oriented in the {111} planes exhibited fluorescence close to 300 (u.a.), suggesting their potential use in detecting cancer cell lines, which could have significant implications in biomedical diagnostics.