NEWSWORTHY
Graphene nanomesh
Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles developed graphene nanostructures with band gaps (graphene, otherwise, has zero band gap). They injected nanoscale holes into layers of graphene to create a band gap using a self-assembled block co-polymer thin film. Adjustments can be made to the neck width (distance between nanohole edges and cannot go below 5nm) and perodicites (the distance between the centers of two neighboring nanoholes) to vary electrical properties. The on-off ratio (the ratio between the currents when a device is switched on or switched off) can be adjusted through the neck width as well. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Nanocavities for non-stick
Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory displayed first pictures of tiny air bubbles capable of keeping water from wetting a non-stick surface. They created trillions of nanocavities in an otherwise smooth surface and coated it with a wax-like material. When tested with water, they found this surface to be more hydrophobic than the uncoated version. The applications of this research could lead to improvements in non-stick materials used in power plants, speed boats, and surfaces resistant to germs. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Carbon nanotube thermocells for conversion
Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology in collaboration with researchers from the U.S., Australia, China, India and the Philippines devised a method to convert heat waste discarded by chemical plants, automobiles, and solar cell farms in to electricity using carbon nanotube thermocells. The thermocells and electrolyte-filled, textile-separated nanotube sheets are placed around pipes carrying hot waste in chemical plants. This creates a temperature difference between the pipes and carbon nanotube sheets, which produces an electrochemical potential that could be used to generate electricity. See Nanowerk and Nano Letters.
Nanocomposite-polymer deposition
Researchers from the Naval Research Laboratory and the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign developed a method to deposit mixtures of nanocomposites and polymers onto a surface. The probe of an atomic force microscope is first coated with this mixture and then heated to produce flow onto the surface below. The forces in the polymer could be adjusted to ensure alignment of deposition on surfaces. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Nanoscale tip
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Wisconsin-Madison and IBM Research-Zürich developed a nanoscale tip that is 3,000 times more wear-resistant at the nanoscale than silicon. This carbon, hydrogen, silicon and oxygen molded nano-sized tip was seen to perform well when in sliding contact with a hard substrate (silicon dioxide). This discovery could lead to advancements in atomic imaging, probe-based data storage, nanolithography, nanometrology and nanomanufacturing. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Nanomaterials to fight drug resistance in cancer
Researchers from Rutgers University developed nanomaterials that fight the side-effects and drug resistance problem resulting from regular chemotherapy. They designed nanomaterials capable of simultaneously targeting and destroying cancer cells and a genetic drug that would prevent drug resistance by loading the anticancer drug doxorubicin onto silver nanomaterials. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Small.
“Green nanomagents”
Researchers from the University of Manchester found a method to devise nanosized magnets without the use of chemicals that could be used in electronic applications. They used the natural iron-reducing bacteria and added cobalt, manganese or nickel to it. This resulted in tiny magnets containing these elements. These nanomagnets can be used in mobile phones and recording devices. See Nanowerk and Nano Letters.
“Take a Nanooze break”
The National Science Foundation (NSF) in collaboration with the Cornell University researchers has a new exhibition at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. This exhibit is based on the NSF-supported children's magazine and Web site Nanooze. The display allows visitors to manipulate models of molecules, view everyday objects at the nanoscale, and interact with scientists and engineers who conduct the latest nano research. The exhibition opened on Feb. 22, 2010. See Nanowerk.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Monday, March 1, 2010
NEWSWORTHY
Tumor targeting nanoparticles
Researchers of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University have designed nanoparticles that discharge through kidneys when they do not find a target tumor cell. Unbound nanoparticles, comprised of a zinc-cadmium sulfide core surrounded by a cadmium selenide shell and a cysteine coating, pass through kidneys within four hours. So, patients could be given a dose of these nanoparticles four hours prior to their scheduled tumor removal time in order to improve tumor imaging. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Nano.
Nanonets
Chemists from Boston College developed long lasting lithium ion batteries through a small scaffold-like titanium structure of Nanonets, coated with silver nanoparticles. These Nanonets have greater surface area, conductivity, structural strength, and produce 5 to 10 times more charge/recharge rates than typical lithium ion batteries. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Diamond-based nanowire devices
A research team at Harvard University has developed diamond-based nanowire devices that overcome disadvantages of devices based on fluorescent dye molecules, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes. The diamond-based nanowire provides a connection between deeply embedded color centers in diamonds (capable of carrying information through control, capture, and storage of photons) and optical fibers and lenses. This system improves photon collection by a factor of ten to natural diamond devices that could lead to advancements in quantum sensing, and imaging fields. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nature Nano.
World’s first junction-less transistor
Scientists at the Tyndall National Institute in Cork, Ireland have created the world’s first junction-less transistor. The function of a junction in a transistor is to control current flow which in this junction-free transistor, is performed by a silicon wire and a ring structure. Current flows through the silicon wire and is controlled by a ring structure that electrically squeezes it as required. See Nanowerk and Nature Nanotechnology.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
2% efficiency of organic solar cells
German scientists at the University of Freiburg developed a technique to enhance organic solar cell efficiency (from 1% and 1.8%) to 2%. They used quantum dots of cadmium selenide and proposed possibilities of using similar techniques with different nanoparticles for other types of solar cells as well. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Smallest solar powered sensor
Researchers at the University of Michigan created a 9 cubic millimeter solar powered sensor system that is 1000 times smaller than its commercial equivalents. The processor, battery, and solar cells fit in a 2.5 by 3.5 by 1 millimeters frame. The system’s average power consumption is less than 1 nanowatt. The system could be used in biomedical implants, monitoring devices, and environmental networks to test air or water quality. See AtoZ Nano.
New recipe for carbon nanotubes
Researchers at NASA discovered a new recipe that space has to offer in making carbon nanotubes without any use of metals. They found that graphite dust particles when exposed to a combination of carbon monoxide and hydrogen gases form carbon nanotubes. They observed these particles transform from smooth particles to unstructured formations to “cup-stacked carbon nanotubes.” See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, the Astrophysical Journal Letter, and NASA.
Nanotechnology for body prostheses
Research in the Basque city, Spain applied ceramic material called zirconia (Zr02), carbon nanotubes and nanoparticles of zirconia to prolong lifetime of body prostheses. A process involving carbon nanotubes and zirconia nanoparticle-coating on a zirconia matrix lead to improving the age of prostheses to almost 15o years. See Nanowerk.
Nanoparticles for bone implants
A team of researchers from the North Carolina State University developed a “smart coating” capable of enhancing bonds between implants and bones. The silver nanoparticle coating provides a crystalline surface towards the implant and an amorphous layer next to the bone. Slowly the amorphous layer begins to dissolve, releasing calcium and phosphate. This enhances bone growth. See Nanowerk and Acta Biomaterialia.
Tumor targeting nanoparticles
Researchers of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University have designed nanoparticles that discharge through kidneys when they do not find a target tumor cell. Unbound nanoparticles, comprised of a zinc-cadmium sulfide core surrounded by a cadmium selenide shell and a cysteine coating, pass through kidneys within four hours. So, patients could be given a dose of these nanoparticles four hours prior to their scheduled tumor removal time in order to improve tumor imaging. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Nano.
Nanonets
Chemists from Boston College developed long lasting lithium ion batteries through a small scaffold-like titanium structure of Nanonets, coated with silver nanoparticles. These Nanonets have greater surface area, conductivity, structural strength, and produce 5 to 10 times more charge/recharge rates than typical lithium ion batteries. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Diamond-based nanowire devices
A research team at Harvard University has developed diamond-based nanowire devices that overcome disadvantages of devices based on fluorescent dye molecules, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes. The diamond-based nanowire provides a connection between deeply embedded color centers in diamonds (capable of carrying information through control, capture, and storage of photons) and optical fibers and lenses. This system improves photon collection by a factor of ten to natural diamond devices that could lead to advancements in quantum sensing, and imaging fields. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nature Nano.
World’s first junction-less transistor
Scientists at the Tyndall National Institute in Cork, Ireland have created the world’s first junction-less transistor. The function of a junction in a transistor is to control current flow which in this junction-free transistor, is performed by a silicon wire and a ring structure. Current flows through the silicon wire and is controlled by a ring structure that electrically squeezes it as required. See Nanowerk and Nature Nanotechnology.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
2% efficiency of organic solar cells
German scientists at the University of Freiburg developed a technique to enhance organic solar cell efficiency (from 1% and 1.8%) to 2%. They used quantum dots of cadmium selenide and proposed possibilities of using similar techniques with different nanoparticles for other types of solar cells as well. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Smallest solar powered sensor
Researchers at the University of Michigan created a 9 cubic millimeter solar powered sensor system that is 1000 times smaller than its commercial equivalents. The processor, battery, and solar cells fit in a 2.5 by 3.5 by 1 millimeters frame. The system’s average power consumption is less than 1 nanowatt. The system could be used in biomedical implants, monitoring devices, and environmental networks to test air or water quality. See AtoZ Nano.
New recipe for carbon nanotubes
Researchers at NASA discovered a new recipe that space has to offer in making carbon nanotubes without any use of metals. They found that graphite dust particles when exposed to a combination of carbon monoxide and hydrogen gases form carbon nanotubes. They observed these particles transform from smooth particles to unstructured formations to “cup-stacked carbon nanotubes.” See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, the Astrophysical Journal Letter, and NASA.
Nanotechnology for body prostheses
Research in the Basque city, Spain applied ceramic material called zirconia (Zr02), carbon nanotubes and nanoparticles of zirconia to prolong lifetime of body prostheses. A process involving carbon nanotubes and zirconia nanoparticle-coating on a zirconia matrix lead to improving the age of prostheses to almost 15o years. See Nanowerk.
Nanoparticles for bone implants
A team of researchers from the North Carolina State University developed a “smart coating” capable of enhancing bonds between implants and bones. The silver nanoparticle coating provides a crystalline surface towards the implant and an amorphous layer next to the bone. Slowly the amorphous layer begins to dissolve, releasing calcium and phosphate. This enhances bone growth. See Nanowerk and Acta Biomaterialia.
Monday, February 15, 2010
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Monday, February 15, 2010
NEWSWORTHY
Nano materials to cause cancer “cell suicide”
Scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Chicago Medical Center have created microdiscs of nanomagnetic materials to destroy cancer cells. These gold plated iron-nickel microdiscs place themselves on cancer cells and begin to oscillate when an alternating magnetic field is applied to them. The energy developed from these oscillations creates apoptosis or “cell suicide.” See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Materials.
Nano boost for hydrogen production
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz used nanotechnology to improve hydrogen production in water-splitting solar cells (cells that use sunlight to split water into hydrogen and oxygen and use hydrogen for fuel-cell vehicles). They tested the performance of nanostructured composite materials for photoanodes in photoelectrochemical cells. They found improvements in hydrogen production in comparison to the conventional methods of hydrogen produced through solar energy. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Nanophotocathode
Researchers at the University of East Anglia (Norwich, UK) developed a nanophotocathode capable of producing hydrogen with an efficiency of 60 percent. The system consists of a gold electrode covered in layers of Indium phosphide (InP) nanoparticles. Iron–sulfur complex, [Fe2S2(CO)6] is then introduced to this combination and is submerged in water followed by light radiation. A small current is generated and hydrogen with 60 percent efficiency is produced. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Angewandte Chemie.
“e-Textile” storage
Researchers from the Stanford University have devised a conductive textile called e-Textile that is capable of energy storage. By dipping the textile in nanoparticle ink different energy storage devises could be developed. Batteries can be developed using lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) ink and supercapacitors can be created through dipping the textile in ink containing conductive carbon molecules (single walled carbon nanotubes). See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Cement component simulations
Atomic simulations of cement components were performed at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU). They found that colloidal nanoparticle arrangement in C-S-H gel (calcium silicate hydrate – a major component in cement) was a factor responsible for mechanical properties of cement. They concluded that close arrangement of these particles makes the gel denser which improves mechanical properties of cement. See AtoZNano and Nanowerk.
Silver nanoparticles for ICDs
Research is being conducted at the University at Buffalo to develop batteries used in implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) with longer lifetimes. Current lifespan of these batteries runs from 5 to 7 years, but they are working on improving their material through making it 15000 times more conductive upon initial battery use through insitu generation of silver nanoparticles. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Tracking nanoparticles in the “wild”
Research at Rice University has lead to new developments in tracking methods of nanoparticles. Researchers found photothermal techniques useful in tracking nanoparticles not only isolated on a surface, but also in the wild, amongst other particles under the microscope. They developed a method to use gold nanorods to sense nanoparticle orientation using plasmonic properties with polarization imaging techniques. See Nanowerk and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Microscope with nano precision
A research group at the University of Tübingen developed a near-field microscope with a nanometer precision that can be used to study microscopic structures in organic semiconductors. The microscope consists of a gold tip illuminated by a high-focus laser which when placed one-three nanometers above a semiconductor surface generates an optical field. Measurements of a semiconductor made of diindenoperylene (DIP) molecules indicated that edges of these molecules were one-three molecular layers high with17nm bright stripes. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Nano materials to cause cancer “cell suicide”
Scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Chicago Medical Center have created microdiscs of nanomagnetic materials to destroy cancer cells. These gold plated iron-nickel microdiscs place themselves on cancer cells and begin to oscillate when an alternating magnetic field is applied to them. The energy developed from these oscillations creates apoptosis or “cell suicide.” See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Materials.
Nano boost for hydrogen production
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz used nanotechnology to improve hydrogen production in water-splitting solar cells (cells that use sunlight to split water into hydrogen and oxygen and use hydrogen for fuel-cell vehicles). They tested the performance of nanostructured composite materials for photoanodes in photoelectrochemical cells. They found improvements in hydrogen production in comparison to the conventional methods of hydrogen produced through solar energy. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Nanophotocathode
Researchers at the University of East Anglia (Norwich, UK) developed a nanophotocathode capable of producing hydrogen with an efficiency of 60 percent. The system consists of a gold electrode covered in layers of Indium phosphide (InP) nanoparticles. Iron–sulfur complex, [Fe2S2(CO)6] is then introduced to this combination and is submerged in water followed by light radiation. A small current is generated and hydrogen with 60 percent efficiency is produced. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Angewandte Chemie.
“e-Textile” storage
Researchers from the Stanford University have devised a conductive textile called e-Textile that is capable of energy storage. By dipping the textile in nanoparticle ink different energy storage devises could be developed. Batteries can be developed using lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) ink and supercapacitors can be created through dipping the textile in ink containing conductive carbon molecules (single walled carbon nanotubes). See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Cement component simulations
Atomic simulations of cement components were performed at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU). They found that colloidal nanoparticle arrangement in C-S-H gel (calcium silicate hydrate – a major component in cement) was a factor responsible for mechanical properties of cement. They concluded that close arrangement of these particles makes the gel denser which improves mechanical properties of cement. See AtoZNano and Nanowerk.
Silver nanoparticles for ICDs
Research is being conducted at the University at Buffalo to develop batteries used in implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) with longer lifetimes. Current lifespan of these batteries runs from 5 to 7 years, but they are working on improving their material through making it 15000 times more conductive upon initial battery use through insitu generation of silver nanoparticles. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Tracking nanoparticles in the “wild”
Research at Rice University has lead to new developments in tracking methods of nanoparticles. Researchers found photothermal techniques useful in tracking nanoparticles not only isolated on a surface, but also in the wild, amongst other particles under the microscope. They developed a method to use gold nanorods to sense nanoparticle orientation using plasmonic properties with polarization imaging techniques. See Nanowerk and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Microscope with nano precision
A research group at the University of Tübingen developed a near-field microscope with a nanometer precision that can be used to study microscopic structures in organic semiconductors. The microscope consists of a gold tip illuminated by a high-focus laser which when placed one-three nanometers above a semiconductor surface generates an optical field. Measurements of a semiconductor made of diindenoperylene (DIP) molecules indicated that edges of these molecules were one-three molecular layers high with17nm bright stripes. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Tuesday, February 02, 2010
NEWSWORTHY
NOMFETs
Researchers from CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) and CEA (Commissariat à l’Énergie Atomique) have devised an organic transistor called the Nanoparticle Organic Memory Field Effect Transistor (NOMFET). In this device gold nanoparticles are placed in the channel of the transistor and then coated with pentacene. This gives the system a memory element similar to the one that exists between two neurons while transmitting information. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire,Nanotechweb, Nanovip, Nanowerk,and Advanced Functional Materials.
Nano pattern transfer
Researcher at Rice University developed a method to transfer pattern of single walled carbon nanotube (SWNTs) from a substrate to any surface within minutes. The nanotubes are grown and then etched with hydrogen gas and water vapor to weaken the bonds between catalyst and metal. When “stamped” the nanotubes are attached to the surface through van der waals force with no trace of catalyst. If the substrate and catalyst remain intact, then they can be used to grow more nanotubes. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and ACS Nano.
Magnetic nanoparticles for cancer
Researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology in collaboration with the Ovarian Cancer Institute developed and tested magnetic nanoparticles on samples of human cancer cells. Images of brown nanoparticles being attached to violet cancer cells in the human abdominal cavity were disclosed. They claim the next step in their research will be to test the magnetic nanoparticles on live animals followed by human beings. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nanomedicine.
Nanocorals to report status
Scientists from the University of California, Berkley developed nanoprobes called “nanocorals” capable of attaching themselves to cancer cells, delivering drugs, and reporting status of the local molecular environment. One side is designed to detect cancer cells whereas the other side is intended to access the surrounding chemical particles in the environment and report status back to researchers. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTION
Nanorods for faulty valves
Scientists from University of Southern California in collaboration with other researchers are developing a method to use gold nanorods to treat faulty cardiac valves that otherwise would need surgical treatment. Researchers plan on learning the positive effects these nanorods have on the affected valves by measuring the mechanical properties of the collagen-fibroblast-nanoparticle. See Nanotech Wire.
Solder magnetic nanocomposites
Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University in collaboration with Intel Corporation developed new material called solder magnetic nanocomposites. The magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) composites heat solders and causes reflow; this in a regular oven is performed by a computer chip. The time taken to heat the solder can be controlled through manipulating the concentration and composition of the composites. See Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk.
Early detection of cancer
Biofunctionalized nanoparticles, developed by the researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC in Würzburg, can detect cancer using a single molecule of tumor maker (substance found in blood, urine, or in body tissues that can be increased in cancer) in blood. They placed antibody-occupied nanoparticles on the sensor electrode and allowed blood to flow across it. An electrical distribution shift was picked up by the electrode every time there was a tumor maker or a relevant protein passing through it. The researchers called it the “nanoparticle fishing rod” for cancer. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Power generating rubber films
Researchers from the Princeton University developed power-generating rubber films consisting of nanoribbons capable of converting mechanical power to electrical power. They combined nanoribbons with silicone and placed them in a piezoelectric (generates electric voltage when pressure is applied on it) ceramic material. These nanoribbons generated electricity when a mechanical action such as flexing the film was performed. See Nanowerk and ACS Nano.
NOMFETs
Researchers from CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) and CEA (Commissariat à l’Énergie Atomique) have devised an organic transistor called the Nanoparticle Organic Memory Field Effect Transistor (NOMFET). In this device gold nanoparticles are placed in the channel of the transistor and then coated with pentacene. This gives the system a memory element similar to the one that exists between two neurons while transmitting information. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire,Nanotechweb, Nanovip, Nanowerk,and Advanced Functional Materials.
Nano pattern transfer
Researcher at Rice University developed a method to transfer pattern of single walled carbon nanotube (SWNTs) from a substrate to any surface within minutes. The nanotubes are grown and then etched with hydrogen gas and water vapor to weaken the bonds between catalyst and metal. When “stamped” the nanotubes are attached to the surface through van der waals force with no trace of catalyst. If the substrate and catalyst remain intact, then they can be used to grow more nanotubes. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and ACS Nano.
Magnetic nanoparticles for cancer
Researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology in collaboration with the Ovarian Cancer Institute developed and tested magnetic nanoparticles on samples of human cancer cells. Images of brown nanoparticles being attached to violet cancer cells in the human abdominal cavity were disclosed. They claim the next step in their research will be to test the magnetic nanoparticles on live animals followed by human beings. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nanomedicine.
Nanocorals to report status
Scientists from the University of California, Berkley developed nanoprobes called “nanocorals” capable of attaching themselves to cancer cells, delivering drugs, and reporting status of the local molecular environment. One side is designed to detect cancer cells whereas the other side is intended to access the surrounding chemical particles in the environment and report status back to researchers. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
HONORABLE MENTION
Nanorods for faulty valves
Scientists from University of Southern California in collaboration with other researchers are developing a method to use gold nanorods to treat faulty cardiac valves that otherwise would need surgical treatment. Researchers plan on learning the positive effects these nanorods have on the affected valves by measuring the mechanical properties of the collagen-fibroblast-nanoparticle. See Nanotech Wire.
Solder magnetic nanocomposites
Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University in collaboration with Intel Corporation developed new material called solder magnetic nanocomposites. The magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) composites heat solders and causes reflow; this in a regular oven is performed by a computer chip. The time taken to heat the solder can be controlled through manipulating the concentration and composition of the composites. See Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk.
Early detection of cancer
Biofunctionalized nanoparticles, developed by the researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC in Würzburg, can detect cancer using a single molecule of tumor maker (substance found in blood, urine, or in body tissues that can be increased in cancer) in blood. They placed antibody-occupied nanoparticles on the sensor electrode and allowed blood to flow across it. An electrical distribution shift was picked up by the electrode every time there was a tumor maker or a relevant protein passing through it. The researchers called it the “nanoparticle fishing rod” for cancer. See AtoZ Nano and Nanowerk.
Power generating rubber films
Researchers from the Princeton University developed power-generating rubber films consisting of nanoribbons capable of converting mechanical power to electrical power. They combined nanoribbons with silicone and placed them in a piezoelectric (generates electric voltage when pressure is applied on it) ceramic material. These nanoribbons generated electricity when a mechanical action such as flexing the film was performed. See Nanowerk and ACS Nano.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Wednesday, January 20, 2010
NEWSWORTHY
Nanolens for better imaging
Researchers from the Northeastern University developed a nanolens that could improve imaging technologies. The nanolens is made up of nanowires or metamaterials (materials that are manufactured and not found naturally). The nanowires are 20nm in diameter and can be aligned suitably to guide the path of light in a desired manner. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Applied Physics Letters.
MRI+Nanodiamond=Improved signal intensity
At Northwestern University researchers found that combining nanodiamonds with an MRI’s (magnetic resonance imaging) contrast agent improves the signal intensity and that in turn improves the image contrast. They used gadolinium(III)-nanodiamond complex that enhanced the relaxivity (a contrast efficacy indicator) by a factor of ten. This resulted in improvement in contrast and image resolution. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Nanoburrs
Scientists from Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed nanoburrs that are particles coated with tiny proteins so that they stick onto target proteins for drug delivery. The nanoburrs act on basement membranes (lining of the arterial walls, exposed only if any injury were to occur) and could be used to treat atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, and Nanowerk.
Nanotechnology to sense cancer biomarkers
Researchers from Yale University have developed a nanosensor that can identify biomarkers for prostate and breast cancer in whole blood. The silicon nanoribbon sensor filters out the antigens specific to prostate and breast cancer from whole blood. The test takes less than 20 minutes and the readings are precise. See Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nature Nano.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Superlattices
Researchers from Missouri University of Science and Technology developed superlattices (nanoscale-structures) capable of manipulating their resistances. Defect chemistry and compositional superlattices were developed from magnetite and zinc ferrite, grown on a single gold crystal, and were placed in a beaker filled with a solution. Superlattices built through the defect-chemistry method displaced efficiency in altering their resistances through variations in applied voltage. Building such superlattices could lead to improvements in computing devices. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Journal of the American Chemical Society.
Artificial DNA
German researchers developed artificial DNA while preserving its original structure. The artificial DNA has a thin nanowire inside and its nucleobases are replaced by artificial components which bind tightly to silver ions. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Chemistry.
Nano contact lens
Researchers from the University of Western Ontario created contact lens that could be used to measure glucose levels in diabetic patients. Nanoparticles used in these lenses react with the glucose molecules found in tears and change color when there is a change in the glucose content. The study is still in its developing stages. See Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk.
Nanocoating to stop light from reflecting
Physicists from the University of Stuttgart developed a nanocoating that prevents light from reflecting when applied to surfaces. The metallic nanoparticles act as an “anti-reflex coating” and eliminate light reflection almost entirely. This coating can be used in integrated optics or in solar cells. See Nanowerk and Physical Review B.
Nanolens for better imaging
Researchers from the Northeastern University developed a nanolens that could improve imaging technologies. The nanolens is made up of nanowires or metamaterials (materials that are manufactured and not found naturally). The nanowires are 20nm in diameter and can be aligned suitably to guide the path of light in a desired manner. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Applied Physics Letters.
MRI+Nanodiamond=Improved signal intensity
At Northwestern University researchers found that combining nanodiamonds with an MRI’s (magnetic resonance imaging) contrast agent improves the signal intensity and that in turn improves the image contrast. They used gadolinium(III)-nanodiamond complex that enhanced the relaxivity (a contrast efficacy indicator) by a factor of ten. This resulted in improvement in contrast and image resolution. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Nanoburrs
Scientists from Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed nanoburrs that are particles coated with tiny proteins so that they stick onto target proteins for drug delivery. The nanoburrs act on basement membranes (lining of the arterial walls, exposed only if any injury were to occur) and could be used to treat atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, and Nanowerk.
Nanotechnology to sense cancer biomarkers
Researchers from Yale University have developed a nanosensor that can identify biomarkers for prostate and breast cancer in whole blood. The silicon nanoribbon sensor filters out the antigens specific to prostate and breast cancer from whole blood. The test takes less than 20 minutes and the readings are precise. See Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nature Nano.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Superlattices
Researchers from Missouri University of Science and Technology developed superlattices (nanoscale-structures) capable of manipulating their resistances. Defect chemistry and compositional superlattices were developed from magnetite and zinc ferrite, grown on a single gold crystal, and were placed in a beaker filled with a solution. Superlattices built through the defect-chemistry method displaced efficiency in altering their resistances through variations in applied voltage. Building such superlattices could lead to improvements in computing devices. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Journal of the American Chemical Society.
Artificial DNA
German researchers developed artificial DNA while preserving its original structure. The artificial DNA has a thin nanowire inside and its nucleobases are replaced by artificial components which bind tightly to silver ions. See AtoZ Nano, Nanowerk, and Nature Chemistry.
Nano contact lens
Researchers from the University of Western Ontario created contact lens that could be used to measure glucose levels in diabetic patients. Nanoparticles used in these lenses react with the glucose molecules found in tears and change color when there is a change in the glucose content. The study is still in its developing stages. See Nanotech Wire and Nanowerk.
Nanocoating to stop light from reflecting
Physicists from the University of Stuttgart developed a nanocoating that prevents light from reflecting when applied to surfaces. The metallic nanoparticles act as an “anti-reflex coating” and eliminate light reflection almost entirely. This coating can be used in integrated optics or in solar cells. See Nanowerk and Physical Review B.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Nanotechnology Risk Symposium
Professor Berube will be speaking tonight at a Nanotechnology Risk Symposium hosted by the Research Triangle Chapter of the Society for Risk Analysis. The event will be streamed live at this address. Use the following login information:
Username: sra
Password: sra011910
Speakers will start at 6:30pm est. Additional information can be found at www.rtc-sra.org.
Username: sra
Password: sra011910
Speakers will start at 6:30pm est. Additional information can be found at www.rtc-sra.org.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
SEPARATING THE HYPE AND THE BUZZ - Wednesday, January 13, 2010
NEWSWORTHY
Magnetic Ferropaper
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a magnetic “ferropaper” that can be used to make micromotors, tweezers to study cells, and miniature speakers. The process involves impregnating paper with a fluid containing mineral oil and magnetic nanoparticles of iron oxide. The paper is then coated with a biocompatible plastic film. This prevents the fluid from evaporating, improves its mechanical properties, and makes it water resistant. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Paper and Carbon nanotubes to detect toxins
Engineers at the University of Michigan developed a strip of paper containing carbon nanotubes to detect toxins in drinking water. This sensor works by measuring the electrical conductivity of these nanotubes which are coated with antibodies of microcystin-LR (MC-LR). When the paper is introduced into water contaminated with MC-LR, the antibodies squeeze in between the nanotubes, altering the overall electrical conductivity of the sensor. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Nano “cocktail”
A group of researchers from UC San Diego, MIT and UC Santa Barbara have developed a “cocktail” of nanomaterials that can locate, adhere, and kill tumors. Gold nanorod would track and adhere to tumor cells and iron oxide nanoworms or doxorubicin-loaded liposomes would kill those tumors. See AtoZ Nano and First Science.
Biodegradable nanoparticles
Researchers from the John Hopkins University developed biodegradable nanoparticles that can easily penetrate through body’s mucus/sticky fluids or secretions. The biodegradable nanoparticles travelled through the mucus of cystic fibers faster than usual. This research could lead to improvements in drug delivery and could aid in treating eye, lung, gut, or female reproductive tract diseases. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
“DNA Origami”
Scientists from UC San Diego have found the solution to engineer the orientation and placement of nanomaterials. By using “rationally designed synthetic DNA nanostructures” they were able to achieve control of nanomaterials at a level of 5 and 100 nanometers, which was unattainable through self-assembled structures or lithographic patterns. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Nanoscale Golden ratio
Researchers from the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB), Oxford University, Bristol University, and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, UK, found the famous golden ratio to be true even at the nano-level. Cobalt niobate was the material used and magnetic field was applied perpendicularly to the aligned spin to transform the magnetic chain to the quantum critical state. Tension was built due to interactions among the spins resulting in magnetic resonance. The frequencies of the first two resonant notes were in ratio of 1.618, which is the golden ratio. See First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Science.
Molecular machines
University of Glasgow researchers have images of nanoparticle self-assembly that could aid in building molecular machines. Researchers at Glasgow, along with colleagues at the University of Bielefeld, Germany conducted an experiment with a flow reactor system for assembly of nanoparticles in dynamic conditions which allowed them to witness molecular self-assembly. See Nanowerk and Science.
“Nanodragster”
Scientists at Texas reported the development of a “nanodragster,” an improvement in molecular machines. This vehicle has a small front end axle, wheels made from special materials for easy roll, and a longer rear axle made from buckyballs for strong surface grip. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Web, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Organic letters.
Magnetic Ferropaper
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a magnetic “ferropaper” that can be used to make micromotors, tweezers to study cells, and miniature speakers. The process involves impregnating paper with a fluid containing mineral oil and magnetic nanoparticles of iron oxide. The paper is then coated with a biocompatible plastic film. This prevents the fluid from evaporating, improves its mechanical properties, and makes it water resistant. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, and Nanowerk.
Paper and Carbon nanotubes to detect toxins
Engineers at the University of Michigan developed a strip of paper containing carbon nanotubes to detect toxins in drinking water. This sensor works by measuring the electrical conductivity of these nanotubes which are coated with antibodies of microcystin-LR (MC-LR). When the paper is introduced into water contaminated with MC-LR, the antibodies squeeze in between the nanotubes, altering the overall electrical conductivity of the sensor. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Nano Letters.
Nano “cocktail”
A group of researchers from UC San Diego, MIT and UC Santa Barbara have developed a “cocktail” of nanomaterials that can locate, adhere, and kill tumors. Gold nanorod would track and adhere to tumor cells and iron oxide nanoworms or doxorubicin-loaded liposomes would kill those tumors. See AtoZ Nano and First Science.
Biodegradable nanoparticles
Researchers from the John Hopkins University developed biodegradable nanoparticles that can easily penetrate through body’s mucus/sticky fluids or secretions. The biodegradable nanoparticles travelled through the mucus of cystic fibers faster than usual. This research could lead to improvements in drug delivery and could aid in treating eye, lung, gut, or female reproductive tract diseases. See AtoZ Nano, First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
“DNA Origami”
Scientists from UC San Diego have found the solution to engineer the orientation and placement of nanomaterials. By using “rationally designed synthetic DNA nanostructures” they were able to achieve control of nanomaterials at a level of 5 and 100 nanometers, which was unattainable through self-assembled structures or lithographic patterns. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Wire, and Nature Nanotechnology.
Nanoscale Golden ratio
Researchers from the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB), Oxford University, Bristol University, and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, UK, found the famous golden ratio to be true even at the nano-level. Cobalt niobate was the material used and magnetic field was applied perpendicularly to the aligned spin to transform the magnetic chain to the quantum critical state. Tension was built due to interactions among the spins resulting in magnetic resonance. The frequencies of the first two resonant notes were in ratio of 1.618, which is the golden ratio. See First Science, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Science.
Molecular machines
University of Glasgow researchers have images of nanoparticle self-assembly that could aid in building molecular machines. Researchers at Glasgow, along with colleagues at the University of Bielefeld, Germany conducted an experiment with a flow reactor system for assembly of nanoparticles in dynamic conditions which allowed them to witness molecular self-assembly. See Nanowerk and Science.
“Nanodragster”
Scientists at Texas reported the development of a “nanodragster,” an improvement in molecular machines. This vehicle has a small front end axle, wheels made from special materials for easy roll, and a longer rear axle made from buckyballs for strong surface grip. See AtoZ Nano, Nanotech Web, Nanotech Wire, Nanowerk, and Organic letters.
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