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Educational buildings have a large share and impact on urban development. While research shows a significant portion of non-industrial energy consumption in these buildings, obtaining optimal thermal comfort in educational buildings remains one of the main concerns in achieving the grounds to promote students' best performance and efficiency. Extensive research has been done in this field, however, this research presents a new approach to the diverse use of nanotechnology techniques which improve its properties and components in the buildings, aiming to reduce energy consumption and increase thermal comfort. In this paper, thermal comfort and energy consumption are evaluated in a 12-class elementary school located in Shiraz City. Aeropan and nano-Phase change materials (nano-PCMs) is used in the window glass and walls of the studied case. This evaluation presents the simulation and experimental analysis of thermal comfort (PMV) and energy consumption of three classroom alignments in the school building including the Linear-shape (LS), the Integrated Linear-shape (ILS), and the U-shaped (US) alignment. The simulation was performed using EnergyPlus 9.6 software, while the experimental data was collected using TESTO 425 device. The result of this research shows that after applying nano-PCM and Aeropan techniques in window glass and walls, the US alignment has the highest reduction in energy consumption (monthly average of 11.80%) compared to LS and ILS alignments. This alignment includes an energy consumption reduction of 12.03% in the coldest, and, 11.66% in the hottest day of the year in addition to increasing the monthly average thermal comfort of school by the use of nanomaterials.

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In recent years, the prevalence of diabetic wounds has significantly increased, posing a substantial medical challenge due to their propensity for infection and delayed healing. These wounds not only increase mortality rates but also lead to amputations and severe mobility issues. To address this, advancements in bioactive molecules such as genes, growth factors, proteins, peptides, stem cells, and exosomes into targeted gene therapies have emerged as a preferred strategy among researchers. Additionally, the integration of photothermal therapy (PTT), nucleic acid, and gene therapy, along with 3D printing technology and the layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly approach, shows promise in diabetic wound treatment. Effective delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) relies on gene vectors. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the pathophysiological characteristics observed in diabetic wounds, encompassing diminished angiogenesis, heightened levels of reactive oxygen species, and impaired immune function. It further examines advancements in nucleic acid delivery, targeted gene therapy, advanced drug delivery systems, layer-by-layer (LBL) techniques, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), 3D printing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and ongoing clinical trials. Through the integration of recent research insights, this review presents innovative strategies aimed at augmenting the multifaceted management of diabetic wounds, thus paving the way for enhanced therapeutic outcomes in the future.

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BACKGROUND: Pitaya fruit (Hylocereus spp.) is rich in bioactive compounds such as betanin. This study aimed to extract betanin-rich pitaya fruit and encapsulate it in electrospun nanofibers produced with sweet potato starch. The influence of different concentrations of this bioactive compound on the morphology, functional groups, hydrophilicity, load capacity, color, thermal properties, and contact angle of the electrospun nanofibers with water and milk was assessed. The potential antioxidant and stability of nanofibers during gastrointestinal digestion in vitro were demonstrated. RESULTS: The nanofibers presented average diameters ranging from 134 to 204 nm and displayed homogeneous morphology. The load capacity of the extract in the nanofibers was 43% to 83%. The encapsulation increased the thermal resistance of betanins (197-297 °C). The static contact angle with water and milk showed that these materials presented greater affinity with milk. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) showed that the nanofibers with 5%, 25%, and 45% pitaya extract presented unique characteristics. They showed resistance in delivering betanins to the stomach, with 12% inhibition of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH˙) radical. However, only the 45% concentration reached the intestine with 9.83% inhibition of the DPPH˙ radical. CONCLUSIONS: Pattern recognition from multivariate analyses indicated that nanofibers containing 5%, 25%, and 45% of the extract presented distinct characteristics, with the ability to preserve betanins against thermal degradation and perform the controlled delivery of these bioactives in the stomach and intestine to produce antioxidant activity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

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Obesity is a global health concern and a chronic disease that is accompanied by excessive fat storage in adipose and nonadipose tissues. An increase in the body-mass index (BMI) is directly proportional to the 2- to 3.9-fold increase in all-cause mortality in obesity. If left untreated for a longer period, obesity-related metabolic, cardiovascular, inflammatory, and malignant diseases reduce life expectancy. Currently, most of the anti-obesity drugs have failed and fallen into disrepute, either due to their ineffectiveness or adverse effects. In this review, depending on their enhanced pharmacokinetic and biodistribution profiles, whether nanocarriers alter the basic properties and bioactivity of anti-obesity drugs used in clinical practice are debated. First, nanocarriers can improve the safety of still-used anti-obesity drugs by lowering their systemic toxicity through increasing targeting efficacy and preventing drug carrier toxicity. Second, when the micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNAs), which are aberrantly expressed in obesity and obesity-related diseases, are encapsulated into nanoparticles, they are effective in multiple obesity-related metabolic pathways and gene networks. Finally, a synergistic anti-obesity effect with low dose and low toxicity can be obtained with the combinatory therapy applied by encapsulating the anti-obesity drug and gene in the same nanocarrier delivery vehicle.

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The plant extract-mediated method is eco-friendly, simple, safe, and low-cost, using biomolecules as a reducing agent to separate nanoparticles. Lanthanum (La) is a rare earth metal that positively affects plant growth and agriculture. Citrus limon is a leading citrus fruit with many varieties. Conventional vegetative propagation methods depend on season, availability of plant material and are time-consuming. It is the main reason for limiting the acceptance of new varieties. So, In-vitro propagation of the lemon method is practiced overcoming all these problems. Lanthanum oxide nanoparticles (La2O3-NPs) were synthesized using plant extract of C. aurantium. Ultraviolet (UV)-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) were used to characterize the synthesized La2O3-NPs. Fabricated La2O3-NPs were oval and spherical, with an average size of 51.1 nm. UV-visible absorption spectra of La2O3-NPs were shown at a sharp single peak at 342 nm and FTIR showed stretching frequency at 455 cm-1-516 cm-1. In the TGA outcome, mass loss was 9.1%. In vitro experiments demonstrated that La2O3-NPs significantly enhanced the germination and growth of C. limon seeds, achieving an 83% germination rate at 5 mg/L concentration, with uncoated seeds showing root initiation at 10 days and shoot formation at 15 days. Furthermore, La2O3-NPs effectively stimulated callus induction and maturation, with optimal responses observed in media containing MS and 2 mg/L 2,4-D, resulting in a maximum callus frequency of 100% from leaves and 87.5% from shoots at 5 mg/L concentration. These findings underscore the potential of La2O3-NPs to improve seed germination rates, seedling vigor, and callogenesis efficiency, suggesting their promising integration into agricultural practices for sustainable crop production, especially in suboptimal growing conditions. Future research is recommended to explore the mechanisms and broader applications of La2O3-NPs across various plant species and environments.

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Pectin, a natural polysaccharide predominantly sourced from the cell walls of terrestrial plants, is widely regarded for its gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties, which have extensive applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological industries. This review discusses the mechanistic pathways by which pectin mediates its lipid-lowering properties, such as pectin's antioxidant activity, the modulation of gut microbiota, its anti-inflammatory properties, its capacity to bind bile acids and cholesterol, and its impact on the expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism. To enhance its hypolipidemic properties, chemical, physical, and enzymatic modification techniques are explored. Additionally, the synergistic effects of pectin in combination with other bioactive compounds such as phytosterols and polyphenols, as well as its potential in nanocarrier-mediated delivery systems for lipid-lowering agents, are highlighted. The review also conducts a critical analysis of the safety and regulatory considerations associated with pectin use, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive toxicological evaluations and adherence to regulatory standards. This paper underscores the growing potential of pectin not only as a dietary fiber but also as a multifaceted agent for ameliorating hyperlipidemia, catalyzing a shift toward more targeted and efficacious lipid-lowering strategies.

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Background: This study looks at the clinical applications of nanotechnology in dentistry, with an emphasis on implantology, preventive care, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, and endodontics. Methods: Following PRISMA criteria and registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD 564245), a PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science search was conducted for studies from January 2014 to April 2024. The criteria were English-language research on nanotechnology in dental coatings, with a focus on clinical trials and observational studies. The electronic database search yielded 8881 publications. Following the screening process, 17 records were selected for qualitative analysis. Results: Nanotechnology has revolutionized dentistry. In orthodontics, nanoparticles improve antibacterial characteristics, durability, and biocompatibility, lowering bacterial colonization and plaque. In preventative care, Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (CPP-ACP) combined with stannous fluoride (SnF2) and nano-sized sodium trimetaphosphate (TMPnano) substantially remineralizes enamel. Nanostructured surfaces in dental implants, particularly those containing calcium, improve osseointegration and stability. Nanoparticles in restorative dentistry improve composite and adhesive strength, aesthetics, and longevity. Conclusions: Nanotechnology improves dental materials and equipment, resulting in better treatment outcomes and increased patient comfort. Its integration provides more effective treatments, which improves dental care and patient outcomes. More research is needed to overcome present problems and expand nanotechnology's medicinal applications.

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Nanomedicine drug products have reached an unprecedented high in terms of global commercial acceptance and media exposure with the approvals of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in 2021. In this paper, we examine the current state of the art for nanomedicine technologies as applied for pharmaceutical products and compare those trends with results from a recent IQ Consortium industry survey on nanomedicine drug products. We find that 1) industry companies continue to push the envelope in terms of new technologies for characterizing their specific drug products, 2) new analytical technologies continue to be utilized by industry to characterize the increasingly complex nanomedicine drug products and 3) alignment and communication are key between industry and regulatory authorities to better understand the regulatory filings that are being submitted. There are many CMC challenges that a company must overcome to successfully file a nanomedicine drug product. In 2022, the FDA Guidance on Drug Products containing Nanomaterials was published, and it provides a roadmap for submission of a nanomedicine drug product. We propose that our paper serves as a complimentary guide providing knowledge on specific CMC issues such as quality attributes, physicochemical characterization methods, excipients, and stability.

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Due to the increasing crop losses caused by common and newly emerging phytopathogens, there is a pressing need for the development of rapid and reliable methods for phytopathogen detection and analysis. Leveraging advancements in biochemical engineering technologies and nanomaterial sciences, researchers have put considerable efforts on utilizing biofunctionalized magnetic micro- and nanoparticles (MPs) to develop rapid and reliable systems for phytopathogen detection. MPs facilitate the rapid, high-throughput analysis and in-field applications, while the biomacromolecules, which play key roles in the biorecognitions, interactions and signal amplification, determine the specificity, sensitivity, reliability, and portability of pathogen detection systems. The integration of MPs and biomacromolecules provides dimensionality- and composition-dependent properties, representing a novel approach to develop phytopathogen detection systems. In this review, we summarize and discuss the general properties, synthesis and characterization of MPs, and focus on biomacromolecule-functionalized MPs as well as their representative applications for phytopathogen detection and analysis reported over the past decade. Extensively studied bioreceptors, such as antibodies, phages and phage proteins, nucleic acids, and glycans that are involved in the recognitions and interactions, are covered and discussed. Additionally, the integration of MPs-based detection system with portable microfluidic devices to facilitate their in-field applications is also discussed. Overall, this review focuses on biomacromolecule-functionalized MPs and their applications for phytopathogen detection, aiming to highlight their potential in developing advanced biosensing systems for effective plant protection.

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Novel pharmaceuticals and drug delivery devices may require better performance from the packaging material e.g., in terms of extractables and leachables, and unwanted interactions. To address this, we applied atomic layer deposition (ALD) to build nanometer-range SiO2, ZrO2 and Al2O3-TiO2 films on primary packaging glass. Controlled modification of the surface also enabled creation of functionality without affecting visual appearance of the material. ALD-coated Type I borosilicate vials were compared to uncoated ones, and tailored functionality was presented by appropriate measurements. The tested ALD coatings formed a barrier on glass against extractables and leachables, from the vial and the coating alike. A good ALD coating prevents any leakage into the stored drug product. Hydrolytic resistance results improved by 85-92%, and these results correlated well with straightforward water conductivity measurements. Opposite to uncoated borosilicate glass vials, no extracted elements could be detected from the extracts of the coated vials with stable ALD films. Improved surface integrity was observed with electron microscopy as well. ALD films increased hydrophilicity of the surface and tuning the ALD film thickness and composition allowed precise blocking of UV light wavelengths, without affecting transparency. As a conclusion, ALD is a versatile method to create barrier and functional films on primary packaging materials.

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With the accelerated aging of the global population, the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) is increasing year by year. Because of the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the low concentration of the biomarkers in peripheral blood and the low penetration rate of the drugs through BBB into brain hinders the development of diagnosis and treatment of NDDs. As an effective mediator to penetrate through BBB in both directions, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have attracted much attention in the early diagnosis and treatment of NDDs because of their superior performance as drug carriers and detection biomarkers. Brain-derived EVs in body fluids contain disease-related biomolecules can be used as early diagnostic biomarkers for NDDs. In addition, as one of the subpopulations of EVs, exosomes, especially stem cell-derived exosomes, have great potential in the treatment of NDDs. The ability to cross the BBB, together with the feasibility of versatile functionalization of EV for NDDs pathogen targeting facilitate EVs a potential tool for targeted drug delivery systems for NDDs. In this review, the important role of EVs in the diagnosis and treatment of NDDs and the current research progress will be discussed. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease.

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The use of nanotechnology and polymer-based carriers in osteoporosis treatment offers promising avenues for targeted drug delivery and enhanced therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we developed a novel nanoconjugate composed of Chitosan (CH), Chondroitin Sulfate (CS), and Daidzein (DZ) to treat glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in an in vivo zebrafish model. The CH-CS-DZ nanoconjugate were synthesized using the ionic gelation method, with a CH: CS ratio of 1:1 and a 3 % DZ concentration was identified as optimal for further analysis. The resulting nanoparticles exhibited a particle size of 401.2 ±â€¯0.87 nm. The polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential of nanoconjugate were of0.147 ±â€¯0.04 and 43.55 ±â€¯0.68 mV respectively. Drug release studies demonstrated that 79.66 ±â€¯4.04 % of DZ was released under physiological conditions (pH 7.5) after 96 h, indicating a sustained release profile beneficial for prolonged therapeutic effects. In vivo, studies using zebrafish larvae revealed a significant reduction in oxidative stress and apoptosis in the CH-CS-DZ treated group compared to the glucorticoid dexamethasone (Dex) treated group. Specifically, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were reduced, and lipid peroxidation was markedly decreased (p < 0.001) in the CH-CS-DZ treated group. Additionally, the survival and hatching rates of CH-CS-DZ-treated larvae were 94 % and 95 %, respectively, significantly higher than those in the Dex-treated group. The CH-CS-DZ nanoconjugate also restored bone mineralization, as evidenced by a significant increase in calcium deposition (p < 0.001) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (122 ±â€¯0.4 U/L), compared to the Dex group (84 ±â€¯0.7 U/L). Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of OPG and ALP and downregulation of RANKL and RUNX2b, further indicating the anti-osteoporotic potential of the CH-CS-DZ nanoconjugates. These findings suggest that polymer-based nanoconjugates like CH-CS-DZ can effectively mitigate osteoporosis through targeted delivery and sustained release, offering a potent strategy for bone health restoration.

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Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted great interest among scientists and researchers for years due to their unique optical, physiochemical, biological, and magnetic properties. As a result, MNPs have been widely utilized across a variety of scientific fields, including biomedicine, agriculture, electronics, food, cosmetics, and the environment. In this regard, the current review article offers a comprehensive overview of recent studies on the synthesis of MNPs (metal and metal oxide nanoparticles), outlining the benefits and drawbacks of chemical, physical, and biological methods. However, the biological synthesis of MNPs is of great importance considering the biocompatibility and biological activity of certain MNPs. A variety of characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and others, have been discussed in depth to gain deeper insights into the unique structural and spectroscopic properties of MNPs. Furthermore, their unique properties and applications in the fields of medicine, agriculture, and the environment are summarized and deeply discussed. Finally, the main challenges and limitations of MNPs synthesis and applications, as well as their future prospects have also been discussed.

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Infected wounds are a complex disease involving bacterial infections and dysregulated inflammation. However, current research has mostly focused on bacterial inhibition rather than on inflammation. Thus, combined therapeutic strategies with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammation efficacies are urgently needed. Antibiotics are the main treatment strategy for infections. However, the excessive use of antibiotics throughout the body can cause serious side effects. In addition, miRNA-based therapeutics are superior for the treatment of wounds, but their rapid degradation and poor cellular uptake limit their clinical application. Tetrahedral framework DNA (tFNA) is an ideal drug delivery system owing to its excellent stability and remarkable transport ability. Herein, a novel multi-functional miRNA and antibiotic co-delivery system based on tFNA is presented for the first time, called B/L. B/L has heightened resistance to serum and excellent codelivery ability. After transdermal administration, B/L can specifically target TNF receptor-associated factor 6(TRAF6) and IL-1receptor-associated kinase 1(IRAK1), thereby regulating nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-𝜿B) and thus effectively reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of infected wounds. This novel multi-functional co-delivery system provides a versatile, simple, biocompatible, and powerful platform for the personalized and combined treatment of multiple diseases.

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Creating propositions for the near and distant future requires a design to catch the tide of the times and move with or against trends. In addition, appropriate, adaptable, flexible, and transformational projects are needed in light of changes in science, technology, social, economic, political, and demographic fields over time. Humanity is facing a period in which science and developing technologies will be even more important in solving food safety, health, and environmental problems. Adapting to and mitigating climate change; reducing pollution, waste, and biodiversity loss; and feeding a growing global population with safe food are key challenges facing the agri-food industry and the food supply chain, requiring systemic transformation in agricultural systems and sustainable future agri-food. The aim of this review is to compile scientific evidence and data, define, and create strategies for the future in terms of food security, safety, and sufficiency; future sustainable foods and alternative protein sources; factors affecting food and nutrition security and agriculture; and promising food systems such as functional foods, novel foods, synthetic biology, and 3D food printing. In this review, the safety, conservation, nutritional, sensory, welfare, and potential challenges and limitations of food systems and the opportunities to overcome them on the basis of new approaches, innovative interpretations, future possibilities, and technologies are discussed. Additionally, this review also offers suggestions for future research and food trends in light of future perspectives. This article focuses on future sustainable foods, alternative protein sources, and novel efficient food systems, highlights scientific and technological advances and new research directions, and provides a significant perspective on sustainability.

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Truly one-dimensional titanium oxide nanofilaments with a lepidocrocite structure (1DLs) were explored in the adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of aqueous malachite green (MG), a toxic polluting dye. Decolorization is monitored by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and mineralization is confirmed by total organic carbon analysis. The 1DL/MG flocs are characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. 1DLs, a colloidal nanomaterial, exhibit flocculating behavior while demonstrating high affinity for MG, with a maximum uptake of >680 mg/g rapidly via ion exchange. Additionally, 1DLs decolorize MG under visible light only, unlike most available titania products, via a self-sensitization effect. MG is decolorized by 1DLs by >70% in 30 min under 1 sun exposure of visible light. Counterintuitively, dye adsorption increases as the normalized concentration by mass of 1DL decreases. Demonstrating high adsorption capacity and dye mineralization supports the use of 1DLs in water treatment and self-sensitization for photoelectrochemical devices, like solar cells.

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Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a heterogeneous hematopoietic cancer prevalent in adults, has been a leading cause of leukemia-associated deaths for decades. Despite advancements in understanding its pathology and pharmacological targets, therapeutic strategies have seen minimal change. The standard treatment, combining cytarabine and anthracycline, has persisted, accompanied by challenges such as pharmacokinetic issues and non-specific drug delivery, leading to severe side effects. Nanotechnology offers a promising solution through combination drug delivery. FDA-approved CPX351 (VYXEOS™) a liposomal formulation delivering doxorubicin and cytarabine, exemplifies enhanced therapeutic efficacy. Ongoing research explores various nanocarriers for delivering multiple bioactives, addressing drug targeting, pharmacokinetics and chemoresistance. This review highlights nanotechnology-based combination therapies for the effective management of AML, presenting a potential breakthrough in leukemia.

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The cultivation of edible mushrooms is increasing because of their widely recognized nutritional benefits. Advancements in cultivation techniques have facilitated large-scale mushroom production, meeting the growing consumer demand. This rise in cultivation has led to an increasingly urgent demand for advanced postharvest preservation methods to extend the shelf life of these mushrooms. The postharvest preservation of fresh edible mushrooms involves complex physiological changes and metabolic activities closely associated with gas composition, microbial presence, moisture content, ambient temperature, and enzymatic activity. Preserving edible mushrooms through various preservation strategies (physical, chemical, biological, and nanopackaging approaches) relies on regulating postharvest factors. Nanopackaging can preserve mushrooms' sensory and nutritional qualities due to the specific characteristics of nanomaterials, such as antimicrobial properties and gas/moisture barriers. Furthermore, the review explores current trends, fundamental mechanisms, and upcoming challenges in utilizing nanomaterials, particularly their capacity to enhance the "cell wall" integrity of edible mushrooms by regulating postharvest factors.

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The technique of antimicrobial therapy action is to stop or slow the growth of bacteria that can kill people, animals, and crops. The most widely used antibacterial agents are antibiotics. Even though these antimicrobial medications are quite effective, there are still certain barriers or challenges in using them effectively. To solve these issues, new antimicrobial drug molecules that don't have side effects or resistance are needed. These days, antimicrobial drugs placed in nanosized vehicles, or nanomedicine, made of different metal and metallic oxides as well as of polymer, carbon or lipid-based may be used to address these issues with conventional therapy and delivery techniques. This review focuses on the importance of nanotechnology in antimicrobial therapy, nanoparticles (NPs) used in this therapy, their mode of action, and the recent advancement in nanotechnology for antimicrobial therapy.

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INTRODUCTION: Nucleic acid-based therapies are promising advancements in medicine. They offer unparalleled efficacy in treating previously untreatable diseases through precise gene manipulation techniques. However, the challenge of achieving targeted delivery to specific cells remains a significant obstacle. AREAS COVERED: This review thoroughly examines the physicochemical properties of nucleic acids, focusing on their interaction with carriers and exploring various delivery routes, including oral, pulmonary, ocular, and dermal routes. It also examines the nonviral vector delivery efficiency of nucleic acids, focusing on RNA, and provides regulatory landscapes. EXPERT OPINION: The role of carriers in improving the effectiveness of nucleic acid-based therapies is emphasized. The discussion of published results covers regulatory frameworks, including insights into European Medicines Agency guidelines. It highlights cutting-edge biotechnological innovations and a quality-by-design approach that could facilitate clinical translation and smooth regulatory obstacles.