NEWSWORTHY
Nerves and Nanowires
To study the biocompatibility of nanoelectrodes researchers at Lund University injected nanowires into the brains of rats and found that microglia (the brain’s “clean-up” cells) ate away the nanowires, while a major astrocyte cells’ (who help in the healing process) response observed initially declined later on. The results prove that nanowires had no drastic or chronic affects on the brain. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanovip, and ACS Nano.
Optical Nanoantennas
Wireless data transmission requires a dipole antenna on both the transmitter and receiver ends, and communication is most effective and efficient when the total length of the dipole antennas is about half of the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave. KIT scientists have developed for the first time gold nanoantennas with an extremely high frequency (1 million times higher than radio frequencies) allowing fast modulation causing high data transmission rates. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Nanochip for massive data storage
Engineers at North Carolina State University have created a nanochip with an ability to store data equivalent to 20-high definition DVDs or 250 pages or texts. Selective doping was performed with nickel being added to magnesium oxide; groups of nickel atoms were formed no bigger than 10 square nanometers. This feature enables more data storage capacity in a chip than usual. See First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
“Nanotest” to detect prostate cancer
Using a process involving the use of gold nanoparticles with DNA that attach themselves to prostat-specific antigen (PSA) in blood, researchers of Northwestern University are able to now detect low levels of PSA in post-radical prostatectomy patients. They were able to measure PSA values of less than 0.1 milligrams per milliliter. See First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanovip, Nanowerk, and PNAS.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
“Kinked” nanowires
Researchers at Harvard University have created two and three dimensional zigzag nanowires which can be useful in detecting small electrical currents in cells and tissues. The process involves the introduction of triangular “stereocenters” of 120° joints (which appear as “kinks”) into 1D nanowires. These kinked junctions enable functionality at different points on a nanowire, making it possible to develop nanoelectronics, photodetectors, or biological sensors into complex nanoscale structures. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanovip, Nanowerk, and Nature Nano.
Nanoscale crystal
Researchers at California Institute of technology (CalTech) have developed a method to confine both light and sound in a nanoscale crystal device called an optomechanical crystal. This confinement can lead to the production of frequencies as high as tens of gigahertz, making transmission of large amounts of information possible. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Mechanism for nanopillars
Scientists from CalTach have devised a mechanism to build high precision arrays of nanoscale pillars of any pattern on a polymer film. The mechanism involves photolithography and can be used to create three dimensional nano and micro-scale structures for optical, photonic, and biofluidic devices. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Physical Review Letters.
Tiny battery
Researchers at Yale University and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed a tiny battery with a capacity to generate electricity for ten minutes. The battery consists of two droplets, each consisting of a 200 nanoliter water based solution of potassium and chloride ions enclosed in a lipid wall. The small battery is created by varying the concentration of solution in two cells and inserting electrodes. These batteries are predicted to replace conventional solid-state energy-generating devices in the future. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Advanced Materials.
Carbon nanotubes harmful to lungs
Carbon nanotubes are being used in various applications and equipments without substantial knowledge of their effects on health. A study by North Carolina State University, the Hamner Institutes for Health Sciences, and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences shows that inhalation of carbon nanotubes affects the pleura ( an outer lining of the lungs) causing fibrosis for a short time. A single exposure of the nanotubes resulted in either scarring of the pleural surface or fibrosis in mice. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
CNTs for crop growth
Scientists in Arkansas have reported that use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for seeds could be a new avenue in “nano-agriculture”. They found that CNTs penetrated the hard outer seed coating and enhanced its sprouting while making its seedlings heavier. These positive effects of germination and growth enhancement could reap economic benefits in agriculture, horticulture, and energy sector especially for plant-based biofuels. See Nanowerk and ACS Nano.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Wednesday, October 21, 2009
NEWSWORTHY
Nanoscale cantilevers to measure “Persistent current”
Physicists at Yale University used nanoscale cantilevers to develop a new method of measuring persistent current through a metal ring. They were able to do so by measuring the variations in magnetic force that resulted from the current flow in the ring. Persistent current is sensitive and extremely weak with a low-level magnetic field that cannot be measured using a SQUID. Nanoscale cantilevers were employed successfully to measure these extremely low levels of magnetic force in aluminum rings thereby making it possible to measure persistent currents. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Science.
Gold “snowflakes”
Kansas State University engineers formed 24-carat gold “snowflake” islands on a single atom thick material called graphene. They placed graphene dioxide sheets in a gold ion solution with a growth catalyst. Gold did not evenly coat the sheet but formed islands on it. Engineers called these islands snowflake-shaped gold nanostars, or SFGNs. They are continuing work on this discovery and hope to create a graphene-gold DNA sensor. See AtoZ Nano, First Science , Nanotech Wire, and ACS Nano.
Microwave “fridge” for your nano devices
Nanoscale measurement of a material when above absolute zero (-273°C) is difficult as heat produces atomic movements within it. In order to record accurate measurements there is a need to cool the material. This is now possible for ‘micro’ or ‘nano-scale mechanical resonators’ with the new tiny microwave-powered room-temperature refrigerator developed by National Physical Laboratory scientists. See Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Applied Physics Letters.
Nano Butterfly Wings
Scientists of the State University of Pennsylvania (USA) and the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) have found a way to create optically active nanostructures similar to those found in the insect world. Insects have the ability to appear metallic, multi-colored or iridescent. These properties are the result of photonic nanostructures, such as those found in the cuticles of butterfly wings. Their research team has developed a method for replicating these structures, which may be useful in a number of optically active devices (e.g.,optical diffusers in solar panels). See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Bioinspiration and Biomimetics.
Control of carbon nanotubes
Carbon nanotubes’ (cylindrical carbon molecules) structure and function, or chirality, can now be controlled by mixing different metals in a catalyst. Case Western Reserve researchers found that altering the structure of the catalyst through its composition can result in an ability to control the chirality, as well as the electrical and optical properties, of the nanotubes. See AtoZ Nano and Nanotech Wire.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Nano-scale test tube
Melting, capillarity, and diffusion are now possible at a very small scale. Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin conducted an experiment with a nano-scale test tube composed of a thin shell of carbon. A gold-tipped nanowire was inserted into the test tube and heated to observe melting. The experiment could only be observed through a high power electron microscope. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanovip.
Nanoaluminum rocket propellant
A frozen mixture of water and nanoscale aluminum particles could provide a more environmentally friendly rocket propellant. ALICE or aluminum (Al) – ice can be used to launch rockets into orbit or for long distance space missions. The fuel can be produced on the Moon, Mars, or any other water-bearing bodies. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Nanoparticle electric propulsion
NanoFET is an electric rocket thruster that uses nanoparticle electric propulsion to improve the speed of a spacecraft while using less propellant than usual. The Air Force Office of Scientific Research is funding a professor from the University of Michigan to develop this electric rocket thruster. See AtoZ Nano, Nanovip, and Nanowerk.
Artificial neuromuscular junction
Neuromuscular junctions are nerve-muscle connections that help the brain control muscular movements. Researchers from the University of Michigan have developed an artificial neuromuscular junction that can improve the performance of prosthetic hands with a possibility to restore the sense of touch. The artificial junction consists of muscle cells and a nano-sized polymer placed on a biological scaffold. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Artificial Photosynthesis
Four chemists from the University of Rochester are developing a three module process to effectively generate hydrogen from water through artificial photosynthesis using carbon nanotubes. In the first module a chromophore (a complex naturally occurring molecule found in plants) is used to create free electrons from visible light. In the second module a membrane of carbon nanotubes acts as a bridge to transport these electrons to the third module, where catalytic reaction is used to extract hydrogen from water. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Nanoscale cantilevers to measure “Persistent current”
Physicists at Yale University used nanoscale cantilevers to develop a new method of measuring persistent current through a metal ring. They were able to do so by measuring the variations in magnetic force that resulted from the current flow in the ring. Persistent current is sensitive and extremely weak with a low-level magnetic field that cannot be measured using a SQUID. Nanoscale cantilevers were employed successfully to measure these extremely low levels of magnetic force in aluminum rings thereby making it possible to measure persistent currents. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Science.
Gold “snowflakes”
Kansas State University engineers formed 24-carat gold “snowflake” islands on a single atom thick material called graphene. They placed graphene dioxide sheets in a gold ion solution with a growth catalyst. Gold did not evenly coat the sheet but formed islands on it. Engineers called these islands snowflake-shaped gold nanostars, or SFGNs. They are continuing work on this discovery and hope to create a graphene-gold DNA sensor. See AtoZ Nano, First Science , Nanotech Wire, and ACS Nano.
Microwave “fridge” for your nano devices
Nanoscale measurement of a material when above absolute zero (-273°C) is difficult as heat produces atomic movements within it. In order to record accurate measurements there is a need to cool the material. This is now possible for ‘micro’ or ‘nano-scale mechanical resonators’ with the new tiny microwave-powered room-temperature refrigerator developed by National Physical Laboratory scientists. See Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Applied Physics Letters.
Nano Butterfly Wings
Scientists of the State University of Pennsylvania (USA) and the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) have found a way to create optically active nanostructures similar to those found in the insect world. Insects have the ability to appear metallic, multi-colored or iridescent. These properties are the result of photonic nanostructures, such as those found in the cuticles of butterfly wings. Their research team has developed a method for replicating these structures, which may be useful in a number of optically active devices (e.g.,optical diffusers in solar panels). See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Bioinspiration and Biomimetics.
Control of carbon nanotubes
Carbon nanotubes’ (cylindrical carbon molecules) structure and function, or chirality, can now be controlled by mixing different metals in a catalyst. Case Western Reserve researchers found that altering the structure of the catalyst through its composition can result in an ability to control the chirality, as well as the electrical and optical properties, of the nanotubes. See AtoZ Nano and Nanotech Wire.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Nano-scale test tube
Melting, capillarity, and diffusion are now possible at a very small scale. Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin conducted an experiment with a nano-scale test tube composed of a thin shell of carbon. A gold-tipped nanowire was inserted into the test tube and heated to observe melting. The experiment could only be observed through a high power electron microscope. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanovip.
Nanoaluminum rocket propellant
A frozen mixture of water and nanoscale aluminum particles could provide a more environmentally friendly rocket propellant. ALICE or aluminum (Al) – ice can be used to launch rockets into orbit or for long distance space missions. The fuel can be produced on the Moon, Mars, or any other water-bearing bodies. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Nanoparticle electric propulsion
NanoFET is an electric rocket thruster that uses nanoparticle electric propulsion to improve the speed of a spacecraft while using less propellant than usual. The Air Force Office of Scientific Research is funding a professor from the University of Michigan to develop this electric rocket thruster. See AtoZ Nano, Nanovip, and Nanowerk.
Artificial neuromuscular junction
Neuromuscular junctions are nerve-muscle connections that help the brain control muscular movements. Researchers from the University of Michigan have developed an artificial neuromuscular junction that can improve the performance of prosthetic hands with a possibility to restore the sense of touch. The artificial junction consists of muscle cells and a nano-sized polymer placed on a biological scaffold. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Artificial Photosynthesis
Four chemists from the University of Rochester are developing a three module process to effectively generate hydrogen from water through artificial photosynthesis using carbon nanotubes. In the first module a chromophore (a complex naturally occurring molecule found in plants) is used to create free electrons from visible light. In the second module a membrane of carbon nanotubes acts as a bridge to transport these electrons to the third module, where catalytic reaction is used to extract hydrogen from water. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Monday, October 12, 2009
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Monday, October 12, 2009
BREAKTHROUGH
Carbon nanotubes for detection
Stanford scientists have developed a chip consisting of carbon nanotubes that detects low levels of trinitrotoluene (TNT) and sarin in water. The plastic substrate chip is flexible, cheap, and operates efficiently under water. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and ACS Nano.
NEWSWORTHY
Brain implants
Scientists at University of Michigan have observed that brain implants in rats are more efficient when coated with nanotubes made up of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). The coated implants have shown an improvement of 30 percent in high-quality unit activity as compared to uncoated implants. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Journal of Advanced Materials.
Artificial pore
Biomedical researchers from the University of Cincinnati have developed an artificial pore that when inserted into a lipid membrane allows single and double stranded DNA to pass through it. This modified core of a nanomotor could find applications in drug loading, gene delivery, nano sensing and DNA sequencing. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Nanosensors to measure insulin level
Iranian researchers have developed nanosenors that can detect insulin levels for diabetic patients. To produce nanosensors, the researchers used silicon carbide nanoparticles in ethanol on glass carbon electrodes. They were left to evaporate and were stabilized on the electrode to form detectors. See Nanowerk.
Quantum dots to treat skin cancer
Researchers from the US and Canada are collaborating to develop quantum dots as photsensitizers to treat skin cancer. Photosensitizers combining with light, as in photodynamic therapy can produce oxygen species that are harmful to cancer cells. See Nanoscale and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Nanotechnology for space environment
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology are conducting experiments to develop shielding devices to protect microelectronics and other integrated circuits used in spacecrafts and satellites from harmful space radiations. The researchers note that an alloy of Silicon and Germanium at the nanoscale could act as a shielding agent. Investigations are on to figure ways of improving the combination so this alloy can shield most radiations. See AtoZNano.
Quantum dot directed assembly gains momentum
Directed assembly is a process of controlling quantum dots through manipulation of atoms in quantum dots to control their properties and behavior. But lack of information regarding their atomic –scale, chemical, and structural properties was slowing this process down. But, researchers from University of Michigan have created atomic scale maps of these quantum dots to regain the lost pace of directed assembly. See AtoZNano and Nanowerk.
Controlled movement in the nanoworld
Scientists in the UK are making efforts to control directed movement of molecules of nanoparticles. They developed a surface containing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic sections producing an energy gradient, where particles move in a directed pattern. See AtoZNano, Nanowerk, and ACS Nano.
Nanochip for cancer detection
Early detection of the type and severity of cancer is now possible thanks to researchers from the University of Toronto. They have developed a microchip made from nanomaterials that is sensitive enough to do so within 30 minutes. See Nanowerk and Nanotech Wire.
Carbon nanotubes for detection
Stanford scientists have developed a chip consisting of carbon nanotubes that detects low levels of trinitrotoluene (TNT) and sarin in water. The plastic substrate chip is flexible, cheap, and operates efficiently under water. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and ACS Nano.
NEWSWORTHY
Brain implants
Scientists at University of Michigan have observed that brain implants in rats are more efficient when coated with nanotubes made up of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). The coated implants have shown an improvement of 30 percent in high-quality unit activity as compared to uncoated implants. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Journal of Advanced Materials.
Artificial pore
Biomedical researchers from the University of Cincinnati have developed an artificial pore that when inserted into a lipid membrane allows single and double stranded DNA to pass through it. This modified core of a nanomotor could find applications in drug loading, gene delivery, nano sensing and DNA sequencing. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Nanosensors to measure insulin level
Iranian researchers have developed nanosenors that can detect insulin levels for diabetic patients. To produce nanosensors, the researchers used silicon carbide nanoparticles in ethanol on glass carbon electrodes. They were left to evaporate and were stabilized on the electrode to form detectors. See Nanowerk.
Quantum dots to treat skin cancer
Researchers from the US and Canada are collaborating to develop quantum dots as photsensitizers to treat skin cancer. Photosensitizers combining with light, as in photodynamic therapy can produce oxygen species that are harmful to cancer cells. See Nanoscale and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Nanotechnology for space environment
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology are conducting experiments to develop shielding devices to protect microelectronics and other integrated circuits used in spacecrafts and satellites from harmful space radiations. The researchers note that an alloy of Silicon and Germanium at the nanoscale could act as a shielding agent. Investigations are on to figure ways of improving the combination so this alloy can shield most radiations. See AtoZNano.
Quantum dot directed assembly gains momentum
Directed assembly is a process of controlling quantum dots through manipulation of atoms in quantum dots to control their properties and behavior. But lack of information regarding their atomic –scale, chemical, and structural properties was slowing this process down. But, researchers from University of Michigan have created atomic scale maps of these quantum dots to regain the lost pace of directed assembly. See AtoZNano and Nanowerk.
Controlled movement in the nanoworld
Scientists in the UK are making efforts to control directed movement of molecules of nanoparticles. They developed a surface containing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic sections producing an energy gradient, where particles move in a directed pattern. See AtoZNano, Nanowerk, and ACS Nano.
Nanochip for cancer detection
Early detection of the type and severity of cancer is now possible thanks to researchers from the University of Toronto. They have developed a microchip made from nanomaterials that is sensitive enough to do so within 30 minutes. See Nanowerk and Nanotech Wire.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Tuesday, September 29, 2009
NEWSWORTHY
Sugar-coated nanoparticles for Cancer therapy
Researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have reported that sugar coated iron oxide nanoparticles when subjected to an alternating magnetic field, can kill cancerous cells. The interaction between these particles generates heat, which in turn destroys cancer cells. The side effects that come along with chemotherapy and radiation can be overcome through such methods. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Fabric for detection
Cornell researchers have discovered that uniform application of nanoparticles on to a fabric can alter its properties in ways beneficial to many fields. The altered fabric can be used in detecting explosives, dangerous chemicals, in law enforcement, and in medical fields. The fabric is oil and water resistant as well. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Nanomaterial kills antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Researchers from Münster University and CeNTech (Center for NanoTechnology) have for the first time discovered nanomaterial that can destroy antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These nanoparticles stick on to the bacteria, mark them, and kill them. A green colorant can be attached to these particles, that glows under a fluorescence microscope allowing the bacteria to become visible. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Twinkling nanostars
Scientists at Purdue University have created magnetically responsive nanostars making biomedical imaging better. When exposed to a rotating magnetic field these nanostars spin expelling light in a pulsating or “twinkling” manner. By making the image brighter and reducing background noise, these nanostars help generate better quality bio-images. See AtoZ Nano, Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS), Nanowerk, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Fate of nanoparticles in human cells
Scientists have recently been able to understand the fate of nanoparticles that enter human cells. It was found that the outer layer of biomimetic nanoparticles consisting of important proteins is degraded by the time they reach human cells. They claim the culprit is an enzyme named cathepsin L. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, and Nanowerk.
DNA-Graphene nanostructure
Biomedical researchers have conducted an experiment involving single and double stranded DNA with graphene nanostructures. The DNA, both single and double stranded, were provided with a fluorescent molecule to evaluate their interaction with graphene. It was found that the light on the single stranded DNA dimmed and that on the double stranded DNA darkened slightly when rested on graphene. When a complementary DNA was introduced to the already existing single stranded DNA-grpahene interaction, the light glowed again. This ability of the DNA to turn its light on and off when near graphene could help make biosensors. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Carbon nanotubes springs for battery storage
MIT scientists claim that carbon nanotube springs are capable of storing as much energy as a lithium battery. They reported that carbon nanotube springs have the potential to store a thousand times more energy than regular steel springs. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Paper batteries
Scientists are trying to create batteries that involve no metal parts. By applying nanocaotings of polypyrrole (a conductive polymer, which was earlier discarded for commercial battery use) on to cellulose fibers, they hope to develop an efficient battery with suitable charging and discharging rates. One of the characteristics of the coated cellulose fiber is the high internal porosity, enabling it to be molded like paper. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles to terminate brain cancer cells
Scientists suggest that using titanium dioxide with antibodies can help cure brain tumors. Titanium dioxide attached to an antibody identifies cancer cells and attaches itself to them. Being photoreactive, titanium dioxide when exposed to visible light helps activate mitochondria in cancer cells in turn triggering death in cancer cells. See Nanowerk.
Sugar-coated nanoparticles for Cancer therapy
Researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have reported that sugar coated iron oxide nanoparticles when subjected to an alternating magnetic field, can kill cancerous cells. The interaction between these particles generates heat, which in turn destroys cancer cells. The side effects that come along with chemotherapy and radiation can be overcome through such methods. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Fabric for detection
Cornell researchers have discovered that uniform application of nanoparticles on to a fabric can alter its properties in ways beneficial to many fields. The altered fabric can be used in detecting explosives, dangerous chemicals, in law enforcement, and in medical fields. The fabric is oil and water resistant as well. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Nanomaterial kills antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Researchers from Münster University and CeNTech (Center for NanoTechnology) have for the first time discovered nanomaterial that can destroy antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These nanoparticles stick on to the bacteria, mark them, and kill them. A green colorant can be attached to these particles, that glows under a fluorescence microscope allowing the bacteria to become visible. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Twinkling nanostars
Scientists at Purdue University have created magnetically responsive nanostars making biomedical imaging better. When exposed to a rotating magnetic field these nanostars spin expelling light in a pulsating or “twinkling” manner. By making the image brighter and reducing background noise, these nanostars help generate better quality bio-images. See AtoZ Nano, Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS), Nanowerk, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Fate of nanoparticles in human cells
Scientists have recently been able to understand the fate of nanoparticles that enter human cells. It was found that the outer layer of biomimetic nanoparticles consisting of important proteins is degraded by the time they reach human cells. They claim the culprit is an enzyme named cathepsin L. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, and Nanowerk.
DNA-Graphene nanostructure
Biomedical researchers have conducted an experiment involving single and double stranded DNA with graphene nanostructures. The DNA, both single and double stranded, were provided with a fluorescent molecule to evaluate their interaction with graphene. It was found that the light on the single stranded DNA dimmed and that on the double stranded DNA darkened slightly when rested on graphene. When a complementary DNA was introduced to the already existing single stranded DNA-grpahene interaction, the light glowed again. This ability of the DNA to turn its light on and off when near graphene could help make biosensors. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Carbon nanotubes springs for battery storage
MIT scientists claim that carbon nanotube springs are capable of storing as much energy as a lithium battery. They reported that carbon nanotube springs have the potential to store a thousand times more energy than regular steel springs. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Paper batteries
Scientists are trying to create batteries that involve no metal parts. By applying nanocaotings of polypyrrole (a conductive polymer, which was earlier discarded for commercial battery use) on to cellulose fibers, they hope to develop an efficient battery with suitable charging and discharging rates. One of the characteristics of the coated cellulose fiber is the high internal porosity, enabling it to be molded like paper. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles to terminate brain cancer cells
Scientists suggest that using titanium dioxide with antibodies can help cure brain tumors. Titanium dioxide attached to an antibody identifies cancer cells and attaches itself to them. Being photoreactive, titanium dioxide when exposed to visible light helps activate mitochondria in cancer cells in turn triggering death in cancer cells. See Nanowerk.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Tuesday, September 22, 2009
BREAKTHROUGH
New adjuvant using nanotechnology
Scientists at Oregon State University are hopeful that the new nanoparticle based “adjuvant” could improve future vaccines. Adjuvants are substances which help improve the immune response when used in combination with a vaccine. Due to concerns of safety and toxicity, only Aluminum Hydroxide ( Alum) has been approved for human use in the United States. The new adjuvant is based on nanoparticles prepared with nanoparticulate lecithin, a common food product. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
NEWSWORTHY
Anticancer nanomedicine
Researchers from "Horia Hulubei" National Institute of R&D for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, in Bucharest, Romania have found that tiny particles of albumin, a protein found in blood, can be used to carry radioactive isotopes to the site of cancerous tumors in the body and so avoid many of the side-effects of conventional radiotherapy. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Artificial nose to sniff out toxins
Kenneth Suslick and his team at Univeristy of Illinois have developed an artificial nose, a sensor that could be useful in detecting high exposures to toxic industrial chemicals (TICs). The device is designed to be simple, fast and inexpensive. It is a digital multidimensional extension of litmus paper, having a six by six array of nanoporous pigments whose colors change depending on their chemical environment. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Drug delivery with an on-off membrane
U.S researchers have developed a new type of membrane that can be made reversible at the flick of the switch. One of the applications of this membrane is in anesthetics, where controlled drug delivery is important. The researchers embedded nanoscale poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) – based gels in an ethyl cellulose membrane so that clumps of the particles spanned the width of the membrane and magnetic nanoparticles within the membrane matrix. See Nanowerk.
Nanoemulsion lotion
Scientists at the University of Michigan have shown that treating second-degree burns with a nanoemulsion lotion sharply curbs bacterial growth and reduces inflammation, that otherwise could jeopardize recovery. The nanoemulsion is made of soybean oil, alcohol, water, and detergents emulsified into droplets less than 400 nanometers in diameter. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Carbon nanotubes may be the answer to efficient solar cells
Replacing silicon with carbon nanotubes, Cornell researchers have created basic elements of solar cells that could lead to more efficient conversion of light to electricity. Researchers have fabricated a simple solar cell called a photodiode, formed from an individual carbon nanotube. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk.
Hollow, solid, and amorphous nanoparticles of Nickel Phosphide
Researchers at North Carolina State University have learned how to create hollow, solid, and amorphous nanoparticles of nickel phosphide, which could prove useful in developing solar cells and in catalysts for removing sulphur from fuels. Their work will now serve as a guide for other researchers to controllably create nanoparticles with these characteristics. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
“Nanostructure films”
Chemical engineers at Oregon State University have invented a new technology to deposit “nanostructure films” on various surfaces. They are using extraordinary small films at the nanostructure level to improve the performance of eye glasses, and ultimately solar energy devices. This technology is hoped to reduce waste materials, lessen production costs, and improve functionality. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Longstanding challenge in nanotechnology is now overcome
Researchers have found ways to fold DNA into nanoscale structures that have multiple branching points. They also describe procedures to form nanostructures of various different sizes using the method of “DNA origami.” This study has potential applications in nanoelectronic devices. See AtoZ Nano.
New adjuvant using nanotechnology
Scientists at Oregon State University are hopeful that the new nanoparticle based “adjuvant” could improve future vaccines. Adjuvants are substances which help improve the immune response when used in combination with a vaccine. Due to concerns of safety and toxicity, only Aluminum Hydroxide ( Alum) has been approved for human use in the United States. The new adjuvant is based on nanoparticles prepared with nanoparticulate lecithin, a common food product. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
NEWSWORTHY
Anticancer nanomedicine
Researchers from "Horia Hulubei" National Institute of R&D for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, in Bucharest, Romania have found that tiny particles of albumin, a protein found in blood, can be used to carry radioactive isotopes to the site of cancerous tumors in the body and so avoid many of the side-effects of conventional radiotherapy. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Artificial nose to sniff out toxins
Kenneth Suslick and his team at Univeristy of Illinois have developed an artificial nose, a sensor that could be useful in detecting high exposures to toxic industrial chemicals (TICs). The device is designed to be simple, fast and inexpensive. It is a digital multidimensional extension of litmus paper, having a six by six array of nanoporous pigments whose colors change depending on their chemical environment. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Drug delivery with an on-off membrane
U.S researchers have developed a new type of membrane that can be made reversible at the flick of the switch. One of the applications of this membrane is in anesthetics, where controlled drug delivery is important. The researchers embedded nanoscale poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) – based gels in an ethyl cellulose membrane so that clumps of the particles spanned the width of the membrane and magnetic nanoparticles within the membrane matrix. See Nanowerk.
Nanoemulsion lotion
Scientists at the University of Michigan have shown that treating second-degree burns with a nanoemulsion lotion sharply curbs bacterial growth and reduces inflammation, that otherwise could jeopardize recovery. The nanoemulsion is made of soybean oil, alcohol, water, and detergents emulsified into droplets less than 400 nanometers in diameter. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Carbon nanotubes may be the answer to efficient solar cells
Replacing silicon with carbon nanotubes, Cornell researchers have created basic elements of solar cells that could lead to more efficient conversion of light to electricity. Researchers have fabricated a simple solar cell called a photodiode, formed from an individual carbon nanotube. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk.
Hollow, solid, and amorphous nanoparticles of Nickel Phosphide
Researchers at North Carolina State University have learned how to create hollow, solid, and amorphous nanoparticles of nickel phosphide, which could prove useful in developing solar cells and in catalysts for removing sulphur from fuels. Their work will now serve as a guide for other researchers to controllably create nanoparticles with these characteristics. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
“Nanostructure films”
Chemical engineers at Oregon State University have invented a new technology to deposit “nanostructure films” on various surfaces. They are using extraordinary small films at the nanostructure level to improve the performance of eye glasses, and ultimately solar energy devices. This technology is hoped to reduce waste materials, lessen production costs, and improve functionality. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Longstanding challenge in nanotechnology is now overcome
Researchers have found ways to fold DNA into nanoscale structures that have multiple branching points. They also describe procedures to form nanostructures of various different sizes using the method of “DNA origami.” This study has potential applications in nanoelectronic devices. See AtoZ Nano.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Tuesday, September 15, 2009
BREAKTHROUGHS
Three-Dimensional DNA crystalline structures
Recently released in Nature, scientists from New York University have created the first three-dimensional DNA crystalline structures. Prior to this breakthrough, DNA crystalline structures were confined to two dimensions— having axes on one plane. These three-dimensional DNA crystals have potential ramifications for medical drug delivery and nanoelectronics.
See Nanovip.
World's fastest nitride-based transistors
Researchers from ETH Zurich have improved the switching speed of nitride-based transistors. The transistors function at a high level of heat and produce high voltages, up to 108GHz. These transistors may have a large impact on future electronics.
See Nanowerk.
NEWSWORTHY
Nanomedicine gets a boost from nanodiamonds
Researchers at Northwestern University are pioneering the use of nanodiamonds for targeted drug delivery. Using the nanodiamonds in coordination with PEI800 (polyethyleneimine-800) the research team reports a 70 times greater drug delivery efficiency than over PEI800 alone.
See Nanowerk.
Tree power
Forthcoming in Transactions on Nanotechnology, researchers at the University of Washington have successfully powered nano-sized circuits (roughly 130 nanometers) from nothing more than the voltage created by a tree. While there is little thought of using tree power as a resource, there is some interest in creating sensors to monitor forest fires.
See Nanowerk and Nanotech Wire.
Bacteria detection using CNTs
Researchers at the Rovira I Virgili University in Tarragona, Spain, are pioneering methods for bacteria detection using single-walled carbon nanotubes and synthetic DNA. When coming into contact with Salmonella typhi (the cause of typhoid fever), the DNA and CNT release an electric signal that can be instantaneously picked up by a biosensor. This process may help to greatly improve the identification and measurement of harmful microorganisms.
See Nanowerk.
Delivery of drugs into cancer cells
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed a unique and efficient method to deliver drugs to cancer cells. They used cancer cells from mice and introduced gold nanoshells with a peptide lipid coating that encapsulated the drug. Then they introduced a non-harmful infrared laser onto the cells. See A to Z Nano.
Nanoparticles to treat brain cancer cells
Scientists in Illinois are making progress towards achieving nanoparticles that will “seek and destroy” the brain cancer cells, without damaging the nearby healthy cells. The solution involves chemically linked titanium dioxide nanoparticles to the antibody that seeks and attaches to these cells. When cancerous cells were exposed to “nano biohybrids,”80 percent of these cells were killed by nanoparticles.
See A to Z Nano.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Research on x-ray nano CT-scan
Ge Wang and his colleagues have been working on developing an X-ray nano CT-scan, which promises to reduce the radiation dose currently existing. This nano CT-scan will be able to provide images at the subcellular level revealing deeply imbedded details.
See Nanowerk.
Green algae nanostructure for an environmentally friendly battery
Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered that the distinctive cellulose in green algae, having a unique nanostructure can serve as an effective coating substrate in environmentally friendly batteries. This creates possible productions of environmentally friendly, cost-effective, lightweight energy storage systems.
See Nanowerk and A to Z Nano.
Nanoelectronics and biology combine to make better electronics
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers have combined biological components with electronic circuits. This could enhance biosensing and diagnostic tools, advance neural prosthetics, and might even increase the efficiency of future computers. The devise uses lipid coated nanowires to build prototype bionanoelectronic devices.
See Nanotech Wire.
Graphite's potential as mass data storage medium is getting closer to reality
Researchers at Rice University have brought graphite’s potential as a mass storage devise closer to reality, creating a potential for reprogrammable gate arrays that could revolutionize integrated circuit design. Standard lithographic methods have been used to deposit 10 nm stripes of amorphous graphite onto silicon. This can help develop dense and stable non-volatile memories for all kinds of digital devices. See A to Z Nano.
Three-Dimensional DNA crystalline structures
Recently released in Nature, scientists from New York University have created the first three-dimensional DNA crystalline structures. Prior to this breakthrough, DNA crystalline structures were confined to two dimensions— having axes on one plane. These three-dimensional DNA crystals have potential ramifications for medical drug delivery and nanoelectronics.
See Nanovip.
World's fastest nitride-based transistors
Researchers from ETH Zurich have improved the switching speed of nitride-based transistors. The transistors function at a high level of heat and produce high voltages, up to 108GHz. These transistors may have a large impact on future electronics.
See Nanowerk.
NEWSWORTHY
Nanomedicine gets a boost from nanodiamonds
Researchers at Northwestern University are pioneering the use of nanodiamonds for targeted drug delivery. Using the nanodiamonds in coordination with PEI800 (polyethyleneimine-800) the research team reports a 70 times greater drug delivery efficiency than over PEI800 alone.
See Nanowerk.
Tree power
Forthcoming in Transactions on Nanotechnology, researchers at the University of Washington have successfully powered nano-sized circuits (roughly 130 nanometers) from nothing more than the voltage created by a tree. While there is little thought of using tree power as a resource, there is some interest in creating sensors to monitor forest fires.
See Nanowerk and Nanotech Wire.
Bacteria detection using CNTs
Researchers at the Rovira I Virgili University in Tarragona, Spain, are pioneering methods for bacteria detection using single-walled carbon nanotubes and synthetic DNA. When coming into contact with Salmonella typhi (the cause of typhoid fever), the DNA and CNT release an electric signal that can be instantaneously picked up by a biosensor. This process may help to greatly improve the identification and measurement of harmful microorganisms.
See Nanowerk.
Delivery of drugs into cancer cells
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed a unique and efficient method to deliver drugs to cancer cells. They used cancer cells from mice and introduced gold nanoshells with a peptide lipid coating that encapsulated the drug. Then they introduced a non-harmful infrared laser onto the cells. See A to Z Nano.
Nanoparticles to treat brain cancer cells
Scientists in Illinois are making progress towards achieving nanoparticles that will “seek and destroy” the brain cancer cells, without damaging the nearby healthy cells. The solution involves chemically linked titanium dioxide nanoparticles to the antibody that seeks and attaches to these cells. When cancerous cells were exposed to “nano biohybrids,”80 percent of these cells were killed by nanoparticles.
See A to Z Nano.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Research on x-ray nano CT-scan
Ge Wang and his colleagues have been working on developing an X-ray nano CT-scan, which promises to reduce the radiation dose currently existing. This nano CT-scan will be able to provide images at the subcellular level revealing deeply imbedded details.
See Nanowerk.
Green algae nanostructure for an environmentally friendly battery
Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered that the distinctive cellulose in green algae, having a unique nanostructure can serve as an effective coating substrate in environmentally friendly batteries. This creates possible productions of environmentally friendly, cost-effective, lightweight energy storage systems.
See Nanowerk and A to Z Nano.
Nanoelectronics and biology combine to make better electronics
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers have combined biological components with electronic circuits. This could enhance biosensing and diagnostic tools, advance neural prosthetics, and might even increase the efficiency of future computers. The devise uses lipid coated nanowires to build prototype bionanoelectronic devices.
See Nanotech Wire.
Graphite's potential as mass data storage medium is getting closer to reality
Researchers at Rice University have brought graphite’s potential as a mass storage devise closer to reality, creating a potential for reprogrammable gate arrays that could revolutionize integrated circuit design. Standard lithographic methods have been used to deposit 10 nm stripes of amorphous graphite onto silicon. This can help develop dense and stable non-volatile memories for all kinds of digital devices. See A to Z Nano.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Thursday, September 03, 2009
BREAKTHROUGHS
First pictures of a single molecule released
A single molecule of Pentacene, having 22 carbon atoms and 14 hydrogen atoms, is an organic molecule used in solar cells. Scientists at IBM (Zurich) have used an atomic force microscope (AFM) to record a picture of this molecule. The picture revealed the space between carbon rings to be 0.14 nanometers, almost one million times smaller than the diameter of a grain of sand. This result could have a huge impact on the field of nanotechnology.
See MailOnline
Study: Drug delivery targets tissues
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have made news with their potential new drug delivery system. This mechanism can help deliver the nanoparticles into the tissue; this used to be an issue earlier, as these particles would only circulate in blood. This could prove beneficial for patients with tumors.
See Nanowerk and NanotechWire
NEWSWORTHY
China controversy
A recent study in the European Respiratory Journal details the deaths of 2 Chinese women—apparently from exposure to nanoparticles (although whether the workers took adequate safety measures is questionable). In all 7 women from the same facility were diagnosed with severe lung damage and tissue samples of the 2 victims were demonstrated to have ~30nm particles.
See See 20 20 Science, Rueters, The London News Net, Discover Magazine, NanoVIP and A to Z nano
Radioactive atoms inside fullerenes
Hollow carbon fullerenes (C80) can now be inserted with atoms of various metals. Fullerene nanoparticles could prove beneficial in identifying and selectively targeting brain tumor cells, with fewer side effects.
See Nanowerk
CNTs + Gold= tumor cell detection
Biomedical researchers at the University of Arkansas and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock have developed carbon nanotubes with gold to detect tumor. Carbon nanotubes coated with gold show better radiation, less toxicity and high laser absorption. Researchers found the use of these golden nanotubes in detecting cancerous cells in the lymphatic system, responsible for metastasis.
See A to Z nano
Predicting material failure
Research for improving the durability and reliability of electronic devices, is making advancement. Estimating potential cracks’ location and nature in the integrated materials can help achieve this- The Peridynamic theory (a simulation tool). Applications of such methods proves beneficial to electronic devices, hopefully to even aircrafts are bridges.
See A to Z nano
DNA coated nanotubes help kill tumors
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine have successfully treated mice with prostate cancer. The procedure used multi-walled carbon nanotubes to treat prostate cancer tumors in mice, leaving only a small burn on the skin which healed within days.
See Nanotechwire
Link between nanoparticles and Alzheimer's?
Research is on at the University of Ulster on neuronanotoxicology. Scientists have been trying to find a link between manmade nanoparticles, like in sunscreen and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Following the discovery that nanoparticles could possibly have an effect on neurodegenerative diseases, investigations are being made to find out if there is a relation between these manmade particles to neuro-toxicology.
See A to Z nano and Nanowerk
Improving water desalinization
Researchers at The Australian National University are pioneering new methods of removing salt from seawater using boron nitride nanotubes. The hollow nanotubes can reject 100% of salt from seawater and produce potable water four times faster than conventional methods.
See Nanowerk and Small (Journal)
HONORABLE MENTION
New methods for microchip production
Microchips require crystal to be aligned perfectly and efforts to develop multi layer of crystals onto one chip. Doing so will help achieve a three dimensional integrated circuit, which could produce more power per unit surface area.
See A to Z nano
SELF-ERASING IMAGES
Researchers embed silver and gold particles on an organic gel, which they laminate. By exposing them to UV radiation, pictures of red (if they contain gold) and yellow (if they contain silver) can be seen. When these films are irradiated, the color changes in specific areas.
See A to Z nano
Nanofense protective masks
Researchers have started working on producing disposable protective face masks. The technology combines any type of nanoparticle (known) that can destroy viruses, bacteria, fungi or toxins with one or more hydrophobic or hydrophilic filters. Methods being considered are to coat, impregnate or use pellets of nanoparticles to the filter media.
See Nanotech Wire
Investigating Mercury
This research was supported by the federally funded Center for the Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology (CEINT), based at Duke, and the ACS’s Petroleum Research fund. Organic matter and sediments help microbes convert mercury into a highly dangerous form for all living organisms. When organic materials and compounds containing suphur (sulphides) come in contact, they form mercury nanoparticles which might lead to methylation.
See Nanotech Wire
Aid in molecular war against disease
Research on the nanoscale movements of ribosomes has been captured; taking in amino acids and genetic instructions they can produce proteins. To observe the nanoscale movements, x-ray crystallography was used and the picture was 21 nm wide.
See Nanotech Wire
The new NIST sandwitch
Organic matter sandwitched between metal and silicon, has resulted in creating switches made from individual molecules, resulting in miniaturizing of the electronic world. Applications are not restricted to chip design but also extend to biosensors.
See Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk
NIH funds nanotherapeutics INC. $30.9 to fight bioterrorism
Affilated with the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has contracted Nanotherapeutics Inc. for 5 years of funding to produce an inhalable version of the antiviral drug cidofovir in order to combat the possibility of use of smallpox (Variola major) in bioterrorism attacks.
See the press release and Nanotech Wire
LOWER COST, PRINTABLE SOLAR CELLS
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have provided proof-of-concept in the production of lower-cost solar cells. The solar cells are to feature nanoparticle “inks” that can be painted onto surfaces to take in sunlight. While no actual product has been developed for public use, the researchers believe that this advancement could lessen costs of photovoltaic devices to one-tenth of current prices.
See Nanowerk
Titanium dioxide to cure brain cancer?
Inorganic titanium dioxide with biological matter could prove to be a possible cure for brain cancer. The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Chicago's Brain Tumor Center are conducting experiments in this area of concern. This could be an answer to involving nanoparticles in the area of medicine.
See Nanotech Wire
First pictures of a single molecule released
A single molecule of Pentacene, having 22 carbon atoms and 14 hydrogen atoms, is an organic molecule used in solar cells. Scientists at IBM (Zurich) have used an atomic force microscope (AFM) to record a picture of this molecule. The picture revealed the space between carbon rings to be 0.14 nanometers, almost one million times smaller than the diameter of a grain of sand. This result could have a huge impact on the field of nanotechnology.
See MailOnline
Study: Drug delivery targets tissues
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have made news with their potential new drug delivery system. This mechanism can help deliver the nanoparticles into the tissue; this used to be an issue earlier, as these particles would only circulate in blood. This could prove beneficial for patients with tumors.
See Nanowerk and NanotechWire
NEWSWORTHY
China controversy
A recent study in the European Respiratory Journal details the deaths of 2 Chinese women—apparently from exposure to nanoparticles (although whether the workers took adequate safety measures is questionable). In all 7 women from the same facility were diagnosed with severe lung damage and tissue samples of the 2 victims were demonstrated to have ~30nm particles.
See See 20 20 Science, Rueters, The London News Net, Discover Magazine, NanoVIP and A to Z nano
Radioactive atoms inside fullerenes
Hollow carbon fullerenes (C80) can now be inserted with atoms of various metals. Fullerene nanoparticles could prove beneficial in identifying and selectively targeting brain tumor cells, with fewer side effects.
See Nanowerk
CNTs + Gold= tumor cell detection
Biomedical researchers at the University of Arkansas and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock have developed carbon nanotubes with gold to detect tumor. Carbon nanotubes coated with gold show better radiation, less toxicity and high laser absorption. Researchers found the use of these golden nanotubes in detecting cancerous cells in the lymphatic system, responsible for metastasis.
See A to Z nano
Predicting material failure
Research for improving the durability and reliability of electronic devices, is making advancement. Estimating potential cracks’ location and nature in the integrated materials can help achieve this- The Peridynamic theory (a simulation tool). Applications of such methods proves beneficial to electronic devices, hopefully to even aircrafts are bridges.
See A to Z nano
DNA coated nanotubes help kill tumors
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine have successfully treated mice with prostate cancer. The procedure used multi-walled carbon nanotubes to treat prostate cancer tumors in mice, leaving only a small burn on the skin which healed within days.
See Nanotechwire
Link between nanoparticles and Alzheimer's?
Research is on at the University of Ulster on neuronanotoxicology. Scientists have been trying to find a link between manmade nanoparticles, like in sunscreen and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Following the discovery that nanoparticles could possibly have an effect on neurodegenerative diseases, investigations are being made to find out if there is a relation between these manmade particles to neuro-toxicology.
See A to Z nano and Nanowerk
Improving water desalinization
Researchers at The Australian National University are pioneering new methods of removing salt from seawater using boron nitride nanotubes. The hollow nanotubes can reject 100% of salt from seawater and produce potable water four times faster than conventional methods.
See Nanowerk and Small (Journal)
HONORABLE MENTION
New methods for microchip production
Microchips require crystal to be aligned perfectly and efforts to develop multi layer of crystals onto one chip. Doing so will help achieve a three dimensional integrated circuit, which could produce more power per unit surface area.
See A to Z nano
SELF-ERASING IMAGES
Researchers embed silver and gold particles on an organic gel, which they laminate. By exposing them to UV radiation, pictures of red (if they contain gold) and yellow (if they contain silver) can be seen. When these films are irradiated, the color changes in specific areas.
See A to Z nano
Nanofense protective masks
Researchers have started working on producing disposable protective face masks. The technology combines any type of nanoparticle (known) that can destroy viruses, bacteria, fungi or toxins with one or more hydrophobic or hydrophilic filters. Methods being considered are to coat, impregnate or use pellets of nanoparticles to the filter media.
See Nanotech Wire
Investigating Mercury
This research was supported by the federally funded Center for the Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology (CEINT), based at Duke, and the ACS’s Petroleum Research fund. Organic matter and sediments help microbes convert mercury into a highly dangerous form for all living organisms. When organic materials and compounds containing suphur (sulphides) come in contact, they form mercury nanoparticles which might lead to methylation.
See Nanotech Wire
Aid in molecular war against disease
Research on the nanoscale movements of ribosomes has been captured; taking in amino acids and genetic instructions they can produce proteins. To observe the nanoscale movements, x-ray crystallography was used and the picture was 21 nm wide.
See Nanotech Wire
The new NIST sandwitch
Organic matter sandwitched between metal and silicon, has resulted in creating switches made from individual molecules, resulting in miniaturizing of the electronic world. Applications are not restricted to chip design but also extend to biosensors.
See Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk
NIH funds nanotherapeutics INC. $30.9 to fight bioterrorism
Affilated with the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has contracted Nanotherapeutics Inc. for 5 years of funding to produce an inhalable version of the antiviral drug cidofovir in order to combat the possibility of use of smallpox (Variola major) in bioterrorism attacks.
See the press release and Nanotech Wire
LOWER COST, PRINTABLE SOLAR CELLS
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have provided proof-of-concept in the production of lower-cost solar cells. The solar cells are to feature nanoparticle “inks” that can be painted onto surfaces to take in sunlight. While no actual product has been developed for public use, the researchers believe that this advancement could lessen costs of photovoltaic devices to one-tenth of current prices.
See Nanowerk
Titanium dioxide to cure brain cancer?
Inorganic titanium dioxide with biological matter could prove to be a possible cure for brain cancer. The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Chicago's Brain Tumor Center are conducting experiments in this area of concern. This could be an answer to involving nanoparticles in the area of medicine.
See Nanotech Wire
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