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Abu Bakar MH, Azeman NH, Mobarak NN, Nazri NAA, Daniyal WMEMM, Othman MQ, Abdullah F, Bakar AAA. Uv-vis spectroscopy for simple chloride content analysis in edible oil using charged amino-functionalized carbon quantum dots fluorophore reagent. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 317:124419. [PMID: 38733916 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.124419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The utilization of UV-Vis spectroscopy with amino-functionalized carbon quantum dots (NCQD) as a positive fluorophore reagent for chloride sensing in oil marks a notable advancement in analytical spectroscopy chemistry. This approach streamlines the detection process by eliminating the need for lengthy procedures and pretreatment steps typically associated with chloride detection in edible oil. By incorporating NCQD in chloride detection within the oil matrix, the wavelength analysis transitions from the UV to the visible region. This shift eliminates interference from oil matrix interactions, ensuring more accurate results. Molecular analysis of NCQD reveals significant shifts in its Fourier Transformation Infrared and photoluminescence spectroscopy peaks due to interaction with chloride in edible oil. It has two impressive sensitivity ranges spanning from 0.1-1.0 to 1.0-8.0 ppm, with a value of -0.4656 au. ppm-1 (R2 = 0.998) and -0.0361 au. ppm-1 (R2 = 0.931), respectively, the technique meets regulatory standards while achieving a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.1 ppm. This places it on par with conventional methods and commercial sensors. The NCQD-UV-Vis spectroscopy method not only enhances the efficiency and accuracy of chloride detection but also holds promise for various industrial applications requiring simple and precise monitoring of chloride levels in oil samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Hafiz Abu Bakar
- Institute of Power Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Nur Hidayah Azeman
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nadhratun Naiim Mobarak
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor
| | - Nur Afifah Ahmad Nazri
- Photonics Technology Laboratory, Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wan Mohd Ebtisyam Mustaqim Mohd Daniyal
- Photonics Technology Laboratory, Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; School of Distance Education, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), 11800 Minden, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Qayyum Othman
- Photonics Technology Laboratory, Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Fairuz Abdullah
- Institute of Power Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Ashrif A Bakar
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; Photonics Technology Laboratory, Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
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2
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Singh PDD, Murthy ZVP, Kailasa SK. Zinc nitride quantum dots as an efficient probe for simultaneous fluorescence detection of Cu 2+ and Mn 2+ ions in water samples. Mikrochim Acta 2024; 191:161. [PMID: 38411697 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-024-06247-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The exceptional ascending heights of graphene (carbon) and boron nitride nanostructures have invited scientists to explore metal nitride nanomaterials. Herein, Zn3N2 quantum dots (QDs) were prepared via a simple hydrothermal route from the reaction between zinc nitrate hexahydrate and ammonia solution that possess efficient strength towards sensing applications of metal ions (Cu2+ and Mn2+). The as-prepared Zn3N2 QDs show bright fluorescence, displaying an emission peak at 408 nm upon excitation at 320 nm, with a quantum yield (QY) of 29.56%. It was noticed that the fluorescence intensity of Zn3N2 QDs linearly decreases with the independent addition of Cu2+ and Mn2+ ions, displaying good linearity in the ranges 2.5-50 µM and 0.05-5 µM with detection limits of 21.77 nM and of 63.82 nM for Cu2+ and Mn2+ ions, respectively. The probe was successfully tested for quantifying Cu2+ and Mn2+ in real samples including river, canal, and tap water, providing good recoveries with a relative standard deviation < 2%. Furthermore, the masking proposition can successfully eliminate the interference if the two metal ions exist together. It was found that thiourea is efficiently able to mask Cu2+ and selectively quenches Mn2+, and L-cysteine is able to halt the quenching potential of Mn2+ and is selectively able to sense Cu2+. The Zn3N2 QDs provide a simple way for the simultaneous detection of both Cu2+ and Mn2+ ions in environmental samples at low sample preparations requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Dharni Dhar Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, 395007, Gujarat, India
| | - Z V P Murthy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, 395007, Gujarat, India
| | - Suresh Kumar Kailasa
- Department of Chemistry, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, 395007, Gujarat, India.
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3
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Chau Q, Corado-Santiago L, Jones S, Dattelbaum J, Skromne I. Physicochemical and Inflammatory Analysis of Unconjugated and Conjugated Bone-Binding Carbon Dots. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:1320-1326. [PMID: 38222634 PMCID: PMC10785778 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Carbon nanodots (CDs) have drawn significant attention for their potential uses in diagnostic and therapeutic applications due to their small size, tissue biocompatibility, stable photoluminescence, and modifiable surface groups. However, the effect of cargo molecules on CD photoluminescence and their ability to interact with tissues are not fully understood. Our previous work has shown that CDs produced from the acidic oxidation of carbon nanopowder can bind to mineralized bone with high affinity and specificity in a zebrafish animal model system. Using this model, we investigated the impact of loading Cy5 and biotin cargo on CDs' photoluminescence and bone-binding properties. We report that CD cargo loading alters CD photoluminescence in a pH- and cargo-dependent manner without interfering with the CDs' bone binding properties. In a reciprocal analysis, we show that cargo loading of CDs does not affect the cargo's fluorescence. Significantly, CDs do not trigger nitric oxide production in a mouse macrophage assay, suggesting that they are noninflammatory. Together, these results further support the development of carbon nanopowder-derived CDs for the precise delivery of therapeutic agents to bone tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Chau
- Department
of Biology, University of Richmond, 138 UR Drive, Richmond, Virginia 23173, United States
| | - Lesly Corado-Santiago
- Department
of Biology, University of Richmond, 138 UR Drive, Richmond, Virginia 23173, United States
| | - Shannon Jones
- Department
of Biology, University of Richmond, 138 UR Drive, Richmond, Virginia 23173, United States
| | - Jonathan Dattelbaum
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Richmond, 138 UR Drive, Richmond, Virginia 23173, United States
| | - Isaac Skromne
- Department
of Biology, University of Richmond, 138 UR Drive, Richmond, Virginia 23173, United States
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4
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Casadevall C, Lage A, Mu M, Greer HF, Antón-García D, Butt JN, Jeuken LJC, Watson GW, García-Melchor M, Reisner E. Size-dependent activity of carbon dots for photocatalytic H 2 generation in combination with a molecular Ni cocatalyst. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:15775-15784. [PMID: 37740380 PMCID: PMC10551879 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr03300g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are low-cost light-absorbers in photocatalytic multicomponent systems, but their wide size distribution has hampered rational design and the identification of the factors that lead to their best performance. To address this challenge, we report herein the use of gel filtration size exclusion chromatography to separate amorphous, graphitic, and graphitic N-doped CDs depending on their lateral size to study the effect of their size on photocatalytic H2 evolution with a DuBois-type Ni cocatalyst. Transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering confirm the size-dependent separation of the CDs, whereas UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy of the more monodisperse fractions show a distinct response which computational modelling attributes to a complex interplay between CD size and optical properties. A size-dependent effect on the photocatalytic H2 evolution performance of the CDs in combination with a molecular Ni cocatalyst is demonstrated with a maximum activity at approximately 2-3 nm CD diameter. Overall, size separation leads to a two-fold increase in the specific photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution using the monodisperse CDs compared to the as synthesized polydisperse samples, highlighting the size-dependent effect on photocatalytic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Casadevall
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Ava Lage
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Manting Mu
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Heather F Greer
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Daniel Antón-García
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Julea N Butt
- School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Lars J C Jeuken
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, PO Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Graeme W Watson
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Max García-Melchor
- School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
- CRANN and AMBER Research Centres, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Erwin Reisner
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
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5
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Giordano MG, Seganti G, Bartoli M, Tagliaferro A. An Overview on Carbon Quantum Dots Optical and Chemical Features. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28062772. [PMID: 36985743 PMCID: PMC10051812 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon quantum dots are the materials of a new era with astonishing properties such as high photoluminescence, chemical tuneability and high biocompatibility. Since their discovery, carbon quantum dots have been described as nanometric high-fluorescent carbon nanoparticles, but this definition has become weaker year after year. Nowadays, the classification and the physical explanation of carbon quantum dots optical properties and their chemical structure remain matter of debate. In this review, we provide a clear discussion on these points, providing a starting point for the rationalization of their classification and a comprehensive view on the optical and chemical features of carbon quantum dots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Giuseppe Giordano
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | - Giulia Seganti
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | - Mattia Bartoli
- Center for Sustainable Future Technologies (CSFT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Livorno 60, 10144 Turin, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM), Via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Tagliaferro
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Nazionale per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Materiali (INSTM), Via G. Giusti 9, 50121 Florence, Italy
- Faculty of Science, Ontario Tech University, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON L1G 0C5 T, Canada
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6
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Zhou Y, Zhang W, Leblanc RM. Structure-Property-Activity Relationships in Carbon Dots. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:10777-10796. [PMID: 36395361 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c06856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are one of the most versatile nanomaterials discovered in the 21st century. They possess many properties and thus hold potentials in diverse applications. While an increasing amount of attention has been given to these novel nanoparticles, the broad scientific community is actively engaged in exploring their limits. Recent studies on the fractionalization and assembly of CDs further push the limits beyond just CDs and demonstrate that CDs are both a mixture of heterogeneous fractions and promising building blocks for assembly of large carbon-based materials. With CDs moving forward toward both microscopic and macroscopic levels, a good understanding of the structure-property-activity relationships is essential to forecasting the future of CDs. Hence, in this Perspective, structure-property-activity relationships are highlighted based on the repeatedly verified findings in CDs. In addition, studies on CD fractionalization and assembly are briefly summarized in this Perspective. Eventually, these structure-property-activity relationships and controllability are essential for the development of CDs with desired properties for various applications especially in photochemistry, electrochemistry, nanomedicine, and surface chemistry. In summary, in our opinion, since 2004 until the present, history has witnessed a great development of CDs although there is still some room for more studies. Also, considering many attractive properties, structure-property-activity relationships, and the building block nature of CDs, a variety of carbon-based materials of interest can be constructed from CDs with control. They can help reduce blind trials in the development of carbon-based materials, which is of great significance in materials science, chemistry, and any fields related to the applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States.,C-Dots LLC, Miami, Florida 33136, United States.,Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199, United States
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, United States
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7
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Mohiuddin SMUG, Aydarous A, Alshahrie A, Saeed A, Memić A, Abdullahi S, Salah N. Structural, morphological, and optical properties of carbon nanoparticles unsheathed from date palm fronds. RSC Adv 2022; 12:27411-27420. [PMID: 36276045 PMCID: PMC9513680 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra04189h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have reported the synthesis of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) by various methods. In this study, an easy one-step process to unsheathe CNPs from date palm fronds through a top-down ball milling method has been reported. The CNPs were characterized using various spectroscopic and microscopic methods to determine their structural and morphological features, optical properties, crystallinity, physicochemical properties, and particle stability. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the obtained CNPs' size ranged from 4 to 22 nm in a crystalline form. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed their spherical shape, while the maximum photoluminescence (PL) intensity was recorded at 464 nm when excited at 375 nm. The unsheathed CNPs produced a good quantum yield (QY) of 3.24%. Furthermore, the CNPs exhibited high Raman ratios of I D/I G and I 2D/I G with values of 0.59 and 0.04, respectively, verifying their multilayer crystalline graphitic nature. These Raman ratios also agree with the X-ray diffractometry (XRD) results. The CNPs' sp2 and sp3 carbon bonds were confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), with oxygen on the surface forming carboxyl and carbonyl groups with no other observable impurities. Furthermore, the extracted CNPs showed excellent PL properties for up- and down-conversion. These properties are exemplary for low-cost biomass with potential applications in biomedicine. Therefore, the extracted CNPs reported in this study have potential applications in optical imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaik Muhammad U G Mohiuddin
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkadir Aydarous
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Alshahrie
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdu Saeed
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Thamar University Thamar Yemen
| | - Adnan Memić
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Shittu Abdullahi
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Gombe State University Gombe Nigeria
| | - Numan Salah
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University 21589 Jeddah Saudi Arabia
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8
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Nazri NAA, Azeman NH, Bakar MHA, Mobarak NN, Aziz THTA, Zain ARM, Arsad N, Luo Y, Bakar AAA. Chlorophyll Detection by Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Using Functionalized Carbon Quantum Dots Triangle Ag Nanoparticles. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:2999. [PMID: 36080034 PMCID: PMC9457568 DOI: 10.3390/nano12172999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
An optical sensor-based localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensor was demonstrated for sensitive and selective chlorophyll detection through the integration of amino-functionalized carbon quantum dots (NCQD) and triangle silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The additions of amino groups to the CQD enhance the detection of chlorophyll through electrostatic interactions. AgNPs-NCQD composite was fabricated on the surface of the silanized glass slide using the self-assembly technique. The experimental results showed that the AgNPs-NCQD film-based LSPR sensor detects better than AgNPs and AgNPs-CQD films with a good correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.9835). AgNPs-NCQD showed a high sensitivity response of 2.23 nm ppm-1. The detection and quantification limits of AgNPs-NCQD are 1.03 ppm and 3.40 ppm, respectively, in the range of 0.05 to 6 ppm. Throughout this study, no significant interference was observed among the other ionic species (NO2-, PO4-, NH4+, and Fe3+). This study demonstrates the applicability of the proposed sensor (AgNPs-NCQD) as a sensing material for chlorophyll detection in oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Afifah Ahmad Nazri
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Hidayah Azeman
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hafiz Abu Bakar
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nadhratun Naiim Mobarak
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Tg Hasnan Tg Abd Aziz
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Rifqi Md Zain
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Norhana Arsad
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yunhan Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Fibre Sensing and Communications, College of Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ahmad Ashrif A. Bakar
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institut Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
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9
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Kirbas Cilingir E, Sankaran M, Garber JM, Vallejo FA, Bartoli M, Tagliaferro A, Vanni S, Graham RM, Leblanc RM. Surface modification of carbon nitride dots by nanoarchitectonics for better drug loading and higher cancer selectivity. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:9686-9701. [PMID: 35766148 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr02063g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Carbon Dots (CDs) have recently attracted a considerable amount of attention thanks to their well-documented biocompatibility, tunable photoluminescence, and excellent water solubility. However, CDs need further analysis before their potential use in clinical trials. Previously, we reported a new type of carbon nitride dot (CND) that displayed selective cancer uptake traits attributed to structural resemblances between CNDs and glutamine. Here, the effects of surface structural differences on the cellular uptake of CNDs are further investigated to understand their selective cancer cell uptake trend. Beyond enhanced drug loading on modified CNDs, our cytotoxicity, western blotting and bioimaging studies proposed that modified CNDs' cellular uptake mechanism is thoroughly linked with ASCT2 and LAT1 transporters. Therefore, CNDs have a promising trait of selective cancer cell targeting by utilizing highly expressed transporters on cancer cells. Additionally, drug loaded CNDs exhibited improved anti-cancer efficacies towards cancer cells along with good non-tumor biocompatibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Kirbas Cilingir
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
| | - Meghana Sankaran
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Jordan M Garber
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
| | - Frederic Anthony Vallejo
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
- University of Miami Brain Tumor Initiative, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Mattia Bartoli
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Italy
| | | | - Steven Vanni
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
- HCA Florida University Hospital, 3476 S University Dr., Davie, FL 33328, USA
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33314-7796, USA
| | - Regina M Graham
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
- University of Miami Brain Tumor Initiative, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1475 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
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10
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Zhou Y, Kandel N, Bartoli M, Serafim LF, ElMetwally AE, Falkenberg SM, Paredes XE, Nelson CJ, Smith N, Padovano E, Zhang W, Mintz KJ, Ferreira BC, Cilingir EK, Chen J, Shah SK, Prabhakar R, Tagliaferro A, Wang C, Leblanc RM. Structure-Activity Relationship of Carbon Nitride Dots in Inhibiting Tau Aggregation. CARBON 2022; 193:1-16. [PMID: 35463198 PMCID: PMC9030089 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2022.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Due to the numerous failed clinical trials of anti-amyloid drugs, microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) now stands out as one of the most promising targets for AD therapy. In this study, we report for the first time the structure-dependent MAPT aggregation inhibition of carbon nitride dots (CNDs). CNDs have exhibited great promise as a potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by inhibiting the aggregation of MAPT. In order to elucidate its structure-activity relationship, CNDs were separated via column chromatography and five fractions with different structures were obtained that were characterized by multiple spectroscopy methods. The increase of surface hydrophilic functional groups is consistent with the increase of polarity from fraction 1 to 5. Particle sizes (1-2 nm) and zeta potentials (~-20 mV) are similar among five fractions. With the increase of polarity from fraction 1 to 5, their MAPT aggregation inhibition capacity was weakened. This suggests hydrophobic interactions between CNDs and MAPT, validated via molecular dynamics simulations. With a zebrafish blood-brain barrier (BBB) model, CNDs were observed to cross the BBB through passive diffusion. CNDs were also found to inhibit the generation of multiple reactive oxygen species, which is an important contributor to AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
- C-Dots, LLC, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Nabin Kandel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY 12180, USA
| | - Mattia Bartoli
- Center for Sustainable Future, Italian Institute of Technology, Via Livorno 60, Turin 10144, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Xavier E. Paredes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Nathan Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY 12180, USA
| | - Elisa Padovano
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Italy
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Keenan J. Mintz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | | | | | - Jiuyan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Sujit K. Shah
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Mahendra Morang Adarsh Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar 56613, Nepal
| | - Rajeev Prabhakar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Chunyu Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY 12180, USA
| | - Roger M. Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
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11
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Life Cycle Assessment-Based Comparative Study between High-Yield and "Standard" Bottom-Up Procedures for the Fabrication of Carbon Dots. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15103446. [PMID: 35629474 PMCID: PMC9145381 DOI: 10.3390/ma15103446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are carbon-based nanomaterials with remarkable properties that can be produced from a wide variety of synthesis routes. Given that “standard” bottom-up procedures are typically associated with low synthesis yields, different authors have been trying to devise alternative high-yield fabrication strategies. However, there is a doubt if sustainability-wise, the latter should be really preferred to the former. Herein, we employed a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach to compare and understand the environmental impacts of high-yield and “standard” bottom-up strategies, by applying different life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) methods. These routes were: (1) production of hydrochar, via the hydrothermal treatment of carbon precursors, and its alkaline peroxide treatment into high-yield CDs; (2) microwave treatment of carbon precursors doped with ethylenediamine; (3) and (6) thermal treatment of carbon precursor and urea; (4) hydrothermal treatment of carbon precursor and urea; (5) microwave treatment of carbon precursor and urea. For this LCA, four LCIA methods were used: ReCiPe, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, AWARE, and USEtox. Results identified CD-5 as the most sustainable synthesis in ReCiPe, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and USEtox. On the other hand, in AWARE, the most sustainable synthesis was CD-1. It was possible to conclude that, in general, high-yield synthesis (CD-1) was not more sustainable than “standard” bottom-up synthesis, such as CD-5 and CD-6 (also with relatively high-yield). More importantly, high-yield synthesis (CD-1) did not generate much lower environmental impacts than “standard” approaches with low yields, which indicates that higher yields come with relevant environmental costs.
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12
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Dual Fluorometric Detection of Fe 3+ and Hg 2+ Ions in an Aqueous Medium Using Carbon Quantum Dots as a "Turn-off" Fluorescence Sensor. J Fluoresc 2022; 32:1143-1154. [PMID: 35318547 DOI: 10.1007/s10895-022-02922-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to develop a carbon dots-based fluorescence (FL) sensor that can detect more than one pollutant simultaneously in the same aqueous solution. The carbon dots-based FL sensor has been prepared by employing a facile hydrothermal method using citric acid and ethylenediamine as precursors. The as-synthesized CDs displayed excellent hydrophilicity, good photostability and blue fluorescence under UV light. They have been used as an efficient "turn-off" FL sensor for dual sensing of Fe3+ and Hg2+ ions in an aqueous medium with high sensitivity and selectivity through a static quenching mechanism. The lowest limit of detection (LOD) for Fe3+ and Hg2+ ions was found to be 0.406 µM and 0.934 µM, respectively over the concentration range of 0-50 µM. Therefore, the present work provides an effective strategy to monitor the concentration of Fe3+ and Hg2+ ions simultaneously in an aqueous medium using environment-friendly CDs.
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13
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A Review on the Use of Biochar Derived Carbon Quantum Dots Production for Sensing Applications. CHEMOSENSORS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/chemosensors10030117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Since their discovery, carbon dots have attracted a great deal of interest for their perspective biological applications. Nevertheless, the quenching of carbon dots photoluminescence represents an interesting feature for quantitative analysis in very low concentration of many species. A particular approach for the production of carbon dots is the use of biochar, a carbonized biomass, as a precursor. In this work, we overview the main achievements accomplished by using biochar-derived carbon dots for detecting and quantifying inorganic and organic species. We also provide background knowledge of the main properties, production and purification routes of carbon dots.
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14
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Stergiou A, Tagmatarchis N. Interfacing Carbon Dots for Charge-Transfer Processes. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2006005. [PMID: 33522118 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202006005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are a booming material and the most recent incomer in the big family of carbon nanostructures. Specifically, CDs are nanosized fluorescent core-shell nanoparticles with tunable absorption and emission spectra, with high solubility in aqueous media and common organic solvents. Herein, the origins and the development of these unique nanoscale structures are discussed, key synthetic routes are briefly described, and the utilization of CDs in light-induced charge-transfer schemes is mainly focused upon. Beyond the impact of the CD's surface on the photoluminescence properties, functionalization, by covalent or supramolecular means, permits controllable incorporation of new functionalities with novel photophysical properties. Furthermore, the dual nature of CDs as electron donating or electron accepting species, unveiled upon interfacing them with organic chromophores, highlights their potentiality in managing diverse charge-transfer processes. Novel mechanisms, such as symmetry-breaking photoinduced charge-transfer can be activated upon covalent functionalization of CDs with organic dyes. Without a doubt, participation of CDs in energy conversion schemes opens up a wide avenue that may lead to the development of novel prototype devices suitable for technological applications and related to photonics and optoelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Stergiou
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vassileos Constantinou Avenue, Athens, 11635, Greece
| | - Nikos Tagmatarchis
- Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vassileos Constantinou Avenue, Athens, 11635, Greece
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15
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Pandey RR, Chusuei CC. Carbon Nanotubes, Graphene, and Carbon Dots as Electrochemical Biosensing Composites. Molecules 2021; 26:6674. [PMID: 34771082 PMCID: PMC8587008 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) have been extensively used as electrochemical sensing composites due to their interesting chemical, electronic, and mechanical properties giving rise to increased performance. Due to these materials' unknown long-term ecological fate, care must be given to make their use tractable. In this review, the design and use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and carbon dots (CDs) as electrochemical sensing electrocatalysts applied to the working electrode surface are surveyed for various biosensing applications. Graphene and CDs are readily biodegradable as compared to CNTs. Design elements for CNTs that carry over to graphene and CDs include Coulombic attraction of components and using O or N atoms that serve as tethering points for attaching electrocatalytically active nanoparticles (NPs) and/or other additives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles C. Chusuei
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, USA;
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16
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Chusuei CC, Clark CJ, Pandey RR, Williams ET, Shuxteau C, Seven ES, Leblanc RM. Graphene Defects in Saccharide Carbon Dots Govern Electrochemical Sensitivity. ELECTROANAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.202100381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charles C. Chusuei
- Department of Chemistry Middle Tennessee State University 440 Friendship Street Murfreesboro TN 37132 USA
| | - Christopher J. Clark
- Department of Chemistry Middle Tennessee State University 440 Friendship Street Murfreesboro TN 37132 USA
| | - Raja Ram Pandey
- Department of Chemistry Middle Tennessee State University 440 Friendship Street Murfreesboro TN 37132 USA
| | - Ethan T. Williams
- Department of Chemistry Middle Tennessee State University 440 Friendship Street Murfreesboro TN 37132 USA
| | - Carissa Shuxteau
- Department of Chemistry Middle Tennessee State University 440 Friendship Street Murfreesboro TN 37132 USA
| | - Elif S. Seven
- Department of Chemistry University of Miami 1301 Memorial Drive Coral Gables FL 33146 USA
| | - Roger M. Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry University of Miami 1301 Memorial Drive Coral Gables FL 33146 USA
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17
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Fernandes S, Esteves da Silva JCG, Pinto da Silva L. Comparative life cycle assessment of high-yield synthesis routes for carbon dots. NANOIMPACT 2021; 23:100332. [PMID: 35559833 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are carbon-based nanomaterials with advantageous luminescent properties, making them promising alternatives to other molecular and nanosized fluorophores. However, the development of CDs is impaired by the low synthesis yield of standard fabrication strategies, making high-yield strategies essential. To help future studies to focus on cleaner production strategies, we have employed a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare and understand the environmental impacts of available routes for the high-yield synthesis of carbon dots. These routes were: (1) production of hydrochar, via hydrothermal treatment of carbon precursors, and its alkaline-peroxide treatment into high-yield carbon dots; (2) thermal treatment of carbon precursors mixed in a eutectic mixture of salts. Results show that the first synthesis route is associated with the lowest environmental impacts. This is attributed to the absence of the mixture of salts in the first synthesis route, which offsets its higher electricity consumption. Sensitivity analysis showed that the most critical parameter in the different synthetic strategies is the identity of the carbon precursor, with electricity being also relevant for the first synthesis route. Nevertheless, the use of some carbon precursors (as citric acid) with higher associated environmental impacts may be justified by their beneficial role in increasing the luminescent performance of carbon dots. Thus, the first synthesis route is indicated to be the most environmental benign and should be used as a basis in future studies aimed to the cleaner and high-yield production of carbon dots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Fernandes
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joaquim C G Esteves da Silva
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; LACOMEPHI, GreenUPorto, Department of Geosciences, Environmental and Territorial Planning, Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Pinto da Silva
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; LACOMEPHI, GreenUPorto, Department of Geosciences, Environmental and Territorial Planning, Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
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18
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Zhou Y, ElMetwally AE, Chen J, Shi W, Cilingir EK, Walters B, Mintz KJ, Martin C, Ferreira BCLB, Zhang W, Hettiarachchi SD, Serafim LF, Blackwelder PL, Wikramanayake AH, Peng Z, Leblanc RM. Gel-like carbon dots: A high-performance future photocatalyst. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 599:519-532. [PMID: 33964697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.04.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To protect water resources, halt waterborne diseases, and prevent future water crises, photocatalytic degradation of water pollutants arouse worldwide interest. However, considering the low degradation efficiency and risk of secondary pollution displayed by most metal-based photocatalysts, highly efficient and environmentally friendly photocatalysts with appropriate band gap, such as carbon dots (CDs), are in urgent demand. In this study, the photocatalytic activity of gel-like CDs (G-CDs) was studied using diverse water pollution models for photocatalytic degradation. The degradation rate constants demonstrated a remarkably enhanced photocatalytic activity of G-CDs compared with most known CD species and comparability to graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4). In addition, the rate constant was further improved by 1.4 times through the embedment of g-C3N4 in G-CDs to obtain CD-C3N4. Significantly, the rate constant was also higher than that of g-C3N4 alone, revealing a synergistic effect. Moreover, the use of diverse radical scavengers suggested that the main contributors to the photocatalytic degradation with G-CDs alone were superoxide radicals (O2-) and holes that were, however, substituted by O2- and hydroxyl radicals (OH) due to the addition of g-C3N4. Furthermore, the photocatalytic stabilities of G-CDs and CD-C3N4 turned out to be excellent after four cycles of dye degradation were performed continuously. Eventually, the nontoxicity and environmental friendliness of G-CDs and CD-C3N4 were displayed with sea urchin cytotoxicity tests. Hence, through various characterizations, photocatalytic degradation and cytotoxicity tests, G-CDs proved to be an environmentally friendly and highly efficient future photocatalyst.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Ahmed E ElMetwally
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; Petrochemicals Department, Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute, Nasr City, Cairo 11727, Egypt
| | - Jiuyan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Wenquan Shi
- National Center for International Research on Photoelectric and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, People's Republic of China
| | - Emel K Cilingir
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Brian Walters
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Keenan J Mintz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Christian Martin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Leonardo F Serafim
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Patricia L Blackwelder
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; MGS/RSMAS, University of Miami, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, USA
| | | | - Zhili Peng
- National Center for International Research on Photoelectric and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, People's Republic of China.
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
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19
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Hettiarachchi SD, Kirbas Cilingir E, Maklouf H, Seven ES, Paudyal S, Vanni S, Graham RM, Leblanc RM. pH and redox triggered doxorubicin release from covalently linked carbon dots conjugates. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:5507-5518. [PMID: 33688879 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr08381j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment responsive drug delivery systems are potential approaches to reduce the acute toxicity caused by high-dose cancer chemotherapy. Notwithstanding the conventional nano-drug delivery systems, the redox and pH stimuli drug delivery systems are currently gaining attention. Therefore, the current study was designed to compare three different covalent carbon dots (C-dots) systems based on doxorubicin (dox) release profiles and cancer cell viability efficacy under acidic and physiological conditions. The C-dots nanosystems that were examined in this study are directly conjugated (C-dots-dox), pH triggered (C-dots-HBA-dox), and the redox stimuli (C-dots-S-S-dox) conjugates. The drug loading content (DLC%) of the C-dots-S-S-dox, C-dots-HBA-dox, and C-dots-dox was 34.2 ± 0.4, 60.0 ± 0.3, and 70.0 ± 0.2%, respectively, that examined by UV-vis spectral analysis. The dox release paradigms were emphasized that all three conjugates were promisingly released the dox from C-dots faster in acidic pH than in physiological pH. The displayed highest dox released percentage in the acidic medium was 74.6 ± 0.8% obtained by the pH stimuli, C-dots-HBA-dox conjugate. When introducing the redox inducer, dithiothreitol (DTT), preferentially, the redox stimuli C-dot-S-S-dox conjugate demonstrated a faster dox release at acidic pH than in the pH 7.4. The SJGBM2 cell viability experiments revealed that the pH stimuli, C-dots-HBA-dox conjugate, displayed a significant cell viability drop in the artificially acidified pH 6.4 medium. However, in the physiological pH, the redox stimuli, C-dots-S-S-dox conjugate, was promising over the pH stimuli C-dots-HBA-dox, exhibiting cell viability of 60%, though its' efficacy dropped slightly in the artificially acidified pH 6.4 medium. Moreover, the current study illustrates the stimuli conjugates' remarkable efficacy on sustain drug release than direct amide linkage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajini D Hettiarachchi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
| | - Emel Kirbas Cilingir
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
| | - Heidi Maklouf
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
| | - Elif S Seven
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
| | - Suraj Paudyal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
| | - Steven Vanni
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
| | - Regina M Graham
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1475 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
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20
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Kirbas Cilingir E, Seven ES, Zhou Y, Walters BM, Mintz KJ, Pandey RR, Wikramanayake AH, Chusuei CC, Vanni S, Graham RM, Leblanc RM. Metformin derived carbon dots: Highly biocompatible fluorescent nanomaterials as mitochondrial targeting and blood-brain barrier penetrating biomarkers. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 592:485-497. [PMID: 33714764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.02.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) have been intensively studied since their discovery in 2004 because of their unique properties such as low toxicity, excellent biocompatibility, high photoluminescence (PL) and good water dispersibility. In this study metformin derived carbon dots (Met-CDs) were synthesized using a microwave assisted method. Met-CDs were meticulously characterized using ultra-violet spectroscopy (UV-vis), photoluminescence (PL), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force (AFM) and transmission electron (TEM) microscopies. According to results of cytotoxicity studies, Met-CDs possess low-toxicity and excellent biocompatibility towards both non-tumor and tumor cell lines indicating that Met-CDs are outstanding candidates for living cell bioimaging studies. Furthermore, bioimaging studies have displayed that Met-CDs can penetrate the cell membrane and disperse throughout the cell structure including the nucleus and mitochondria. More specifically, Met-CDs tend to start localizing selectively inside the mitochondria of cancer cells, but not of non-tumor cells after 1 h of incubation. Finally, a zebrafish study confirmed that Met-CDs cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) without the need of any other ligands. In summary, this study presents synthesis of Met-CDs which feature abilities such as mitochondrial and nucleus localizations along with BBB penetration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Kirbas Cilingir
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Elif S Seven
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Brian M Walters
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Keenan J Mintz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
| | - Raja R Pandey
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, United States
| | | | - Charles C Chusuei
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, United States
| | - Steven Vanni
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Regina M Graham
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, 1301 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States.
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21
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Facile Synthesis of "Boron-Doped" Carbon Dots and Their Application in Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dyes. NANOMATERIALS 2020; 10:nano10081560. [PMID: 32784435 PMCID: PMC7466398 DOI: 10.3390/nano10081560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (C-dots) were facilely fabricated via a hydrothermal method and fully characterized. Our study shows that the as-synthesized C-dots are nontoxic, negatively charged spherical particles (average diameter 4.7 nm) with excellent water dispersion ability. Furthermore, the C-dots have a rich presence of surface functionalities such as hydroxyls and carboxyls as well as amines. The significance of the C-dots as highly efficient photocatalysts for rhodamine B (RhB) and methylene blue (MB) degradation was explored. The C-dots demonstrate excellent photocatalytic activity, achieving 100% of RhB and MB degradation within 170 min. The degradation rate constants for RhB and MB were 1.8 × 10−2 and 2.4 × 10−2 min−1, respectively. The photocatalytic degradation performances of the C-dots are comparable to those metal-based photocatalysts and generally better than previously reported C-dots photocatalysts. Collectively considering the excellent photocatalytic activity toward organic dye degradation, as well as the fact that they are facilely synthesized with no need of further doping, compositing, and tedious purification and separation, the C-dots fabricated in this work are demonstrated to be a promising alternative for pollutant degradation and environment protection.
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22
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Dager A, Baliyan A, Kurosu S, Maekawa T, Tachibana M. Ultrafast synthesis of carbon quantum dots from fenugreek seeds using microwave plasma enhanced decomposition: application of C-QDs to grow fluorescent protein crystals. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12333. [PMID: 32704038 PMCID: PMC7378176 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69264-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein, we present the rapid synthesis of mono-dispersed carbon quantum dots (C-QDs) via a single-step microwave plasma-enhanced decomposition (MPED) process. Highly-crystalline C-QDs were synthesized in a matter of 5 min using the fenugreek seeds as a sustainable carbon source. It is the first report, to the best of our knowledge, where C-QDs were synthesized using MPED via natural carbon precursor. Synthesis of C-QDs requires no external temperature other than hydrogen (H2) plasma. Plasma containing the high-energy electrons and activated hydrogen ions predominantly provide the required energy directly into the reaction volume, thus maximizing the atom economy. C-QDs shows excellent Photoluminescence (PL) activity along with the dual-mode of excitation-dependent PL emission (blue and redshift). We investigate the reason behind the dual-mode of excitation-dependent PL. To prove the efficacy of the MPED process, C-QDs were also derived from fenugreek seeds using the traditional synthesis process, highlighting their respective size-distribution, crystallinity, quantum yield, and PL. Notably, C-QDs synthesis via MPED was 97.2% faster than the traditional thermal decomposition process. To the best of our knowledge, the present methodology to synthesize C-QDs via natural source employing MPED is three times faster and far more energy-efficient than reported so far. Additionally, the application of C-QDs to produce the florescent lysozyme protein crystals "hybrid bio-nano crystals" is also discussed. Such a guest-host strategy can be exploited to develop diverse and complex "bio-nano systems". The florescent lysozyme protein crystals could provide a platform for the development of novel next-generation polychrome luminescent crystals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akansha Dager
- Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan.
| | - Ankur Baliyan
- NISSAN ARC, LTD, 1-Natsushima-cho, Yokosuka, 236-0061, Japan
| | - Shunji Kurosu
- Bio-Nano Electronics Research Centre, Toyo University, 2100, Kujirai, Kawagoe, Saitama, 350-8585, Japan
| | - Toru Maekawa
- Bio-Nano Electronics Research Centre, Toyo University, 2100, Kujirai, Kawagoe, Saitama, 350-8585, Japan
| | - Masaru Tachibana
- Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan.
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23
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Zhou Y, Mintz KJ, Cheng L, Chen J, Ferreira BCLB, Hettiarachchi SD, Liyanage PY, Seven ES, Miloserdov N, Pandey RR, Quiroga B, Blackwelder PL, Chusuei CC, Li S, Peng Z, Leblanc RM. Direct conjugation of distinct carbon dots as Lego-like building blocks for the assembly of versatile drug nanocarriers. J Colloid Interface Sci 2020; 576:412-425. [PMID: 32460101 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
As a promising drug nanocarrier, carbon dots (CDs) have exhibited many excellent properties. However, some properties such as bone targeting and crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) only apply to a certain CD preparation with limited drug loading capacity. Therefore, it is significant to conjugate distinct CDs to centralize many unique properties on the novel drug nanocarrier. Considering that CDs have abundant and tunable surface functionalities, in this study, a direct conjugation was initiated between two distinct CD models, black CDs (B-CDs) and gel-like CDs (G-CDs) via an amidation reaction. As a result of conjugation at a mass ratio of 5:3 (B-CDs to G-CDs) and a two-step purification process, the conjugate, black-gel CDs (B-G CDs) (5:3) inherited functionalities from both CDs and obtained an enhanced thermostability, aqueous stability, red-shifted photoluminescence (PL) emission, and a figure-eight shape with a width and length of 3 and 6 nm, respectively. In addition, the necessity of high surface primary amine (NH2) content in the CD conjugation was highlighted by replacing G-CDs with other CDs with lower surface NH2 content. Meanwhile, the carboxyl groups (COOH) on G-CDs were not enough to trigger self-conjugation between G-CDs. Moreover, the drug loading capacity was enhanced by 54.5% from B-CDs to B-G CDs (5:3). Furthermore, when the mass ratio of B-CDs to G-CDs was decreased from 5:30, 5:100 to 5:300, the obtained nanostructures revealed a great potential of CDs as Lego-like building blocks. Also, bioimaging of zebrafish demonstrated that various B-G CDs exhibited properties of both bone targeting and crossing the BBB, which are specific properties of B-CDs and G-CDs, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Keenan J Mintz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Ling Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Jiuyan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | | | - Piumi Y Liyanage
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Elif S Seven
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Nikolay Miloserdov
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Raja R Pandey
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, USA
| | - Bruno Quiroga
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Patricia L Blackwelder
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; GS/RSMAS, University of Miami, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, USA
| | - Charles C Chusuei
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132, USA
| | - Shanghao Li
- MP Biomedicals LLC, 3 Hutton Center, Santa Ana, CA 92707, USA
| | - Zhili Peng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650091, China.
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
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Song L, Zhang H, Chen J, Li Z, Guan M, Qiu H. Imidazolium ionic liquids-derived carbon dots-modified silica stationary phase for hydrophilic interaction chromatography. Talanta 2020; 209:120518. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2019.120518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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25
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Kokorina AA, Sapelkin AV, Sukhorukov GB, Goryacheva IY. Luminescent carbon nanoparticles separation and purification. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2019; 274:102043. [PMID: 31689681 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2019.102043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays luminescent carbon-based nanoparticles can be synthesized by a wide range of physical and chemical methods from a large variety of carbon-based sources. However, in most of the cases the product of synthesis is a complex mixture of compounds, which results in significant challenges in understanding the structure and optical properties of the reaction products. Consequently, a number of separation and purification methodologies have been developed to alleviate these challenges. In this review, we provide a detailed analysis of the current state of the art for methods of luminescent carbon nanoparticles separation and purification. We specifically target such methods as sucrose density gradient centrifugation, chromatography techniques, and electrophoresis because of their ability for fine separation of the reaction products with into a number of fractions. The aim of our comparative analysis is to help development of future strategies for reaction product separation and purification leading to a better understanding of carbon nanoparticles structure and luminescent mechanism as well as to underpin their applications.
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Zhou Y, Liyanage PY, Devadoss D, Rios Guevara LR, Cheng L, Graham RM, Chand HS, Al-Youbi AO, Bashammakh AS, El-Shahawi MS, Leblanc RM. Nontoxic amphiphilic carbon dots as promising drug nanocarriers across the blood-brain barrier and inhibitors of β-amyloid. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:22387-22397. [PMID: 31730144 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr08194a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a main obstacle for drug delivery targeting the central nervous system (CNS) and treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). In order to enhance the efficiency of drug delivery without harming the BBB integrity, nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery has become a popular therapeutic strategy. Carbon dots (CDs) are one of the most promising and novel nanocarriers. In this study, amphiphilic yellow-emissive CDs (Y-CDs) were synthesized with an ultrasonication-mediated methodology using citric acid and o-phenylenediamine with a size of 3 nm that emit an excitation-independent yellow photoluminescence (PL). The content of primary amine and carboxyl groups on CDs was measured as 6.12 × 10-5 and 8.13 × 10-3 mmol mg-1, respectively, indicating the potential for small-molecule drug loading through bioconjugation. Confocal image analyses revealed that Y-CDs crossed the BBB of 5-day old wild-type zebrafish, most probably by passive diffusion due to the amphiphilicity of Y-CDs. And the amphiphilicity and BBB penetration ability didn't change when Y-CDs were coated with different hydrophilic molecules. Furthermore, Y-CDs were observed to enter cells to inhibit the overexpression of human amyloid precursor protein (APP) and β-amyloid (Aβ) which is a major factor responsible for AD pathology. Therefore, data suggest that Y-CDs have a great potential as nontoxic nanocarriers for drug delivery towards the CNS as well as a promising inhibiting agent of Aβ-related pathology of the AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
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27
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Zhi B, Yao X, Cui Y, Orr G, Haynes CL. Synthesis, applications and potential photoluminescence mechanism of spectrally tunable carbon dots. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:20411-20428. [PMID: 31641702 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr05028k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Due to the prominent characteristics of carbon-based luminescent nanostructures (known colloquially as carbon dots), such as inexpensive precursors, excellent hydrophilicity, low toxicity, and intrinsic fluorescence, these nanomaterials are regarded as potential candidates to replace traditional quantum dots in some applications. As such, research in the field of carbon dots has been increasing in recent years. In this mini-review, we summarize recent progress in studies of multicolor carbon dots focusing on potential photoluminescence (PL) mechanisms, strategies for effective syntheses, and applications in ion/molecule and temperature sensing, light emitting diodes and high-resolution bioimaging techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, USA.
| | - XiaoXiao Yao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, USA.
| | - Yi Cui
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 99354, USA
| | - Galya Orr
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 99354, USA
| | - Christy L Haynes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, USA.
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28
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Dager A, Uchida T, Maekawa T, Tachibana M. Synthesis and characterization of Mono-disperse Carbon Quantum Dots from Fennel Seeds: Photoluminescence analysis using Machine Learning. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14004. [PMID: 31570739 PMCID: PMC6769153 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50397-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein, we present the synthesis of mono-dispersed C-QDs via single-step thermal decomposition process using the fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare). As synthesized C-QDs have excellent colloidal, photo-stability, environmental stability (pH) and do not require any additional surface passivation step to improve the fluorescence. The C-QDs show excellent PL activity and excitation-independent emission. Synthesis of excitation-independent C-QDs, to the best of our knowledge, using natural carbon source via pyrolysis process has never been achieved before. The effect of reaction time and temperature on pyrolysis provides insight into the synthesis of C-QDs. We used Machine-learning techniques (ML) such as PCA, MCR-ALS, and NMF-ARD-SO in order to provide a plausible explanation for the origin of the PL mechanism of as-synthesized C-QDs. ML techniques are capable of handling and analyzing the large PL data-set, and institutively recommend the best excitation wavelength for PL analysis. Mono-disperse C-QDs are highly desirable and have a range of potential applications in bio-sensing, cellular imaging, LED, solar cell, supercapacitor, printing, and sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akansha Dager
- Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan.
| | - Takashi Uchida
- Bio-Nano Electronics Research Centre, Toyo University, 2100 Kujirai, Kawagoe, Saitama, 350-8585, Japan.,Silicone-Electronics Materials Research Center, Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., 1-10 Hitomi, Matsuida-machi, Annaka-shi, Gunma, 379-0224, Japan
| | - Toru Maekawa
- Silicone-Electronics Materials Research Center, Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., 1-10 Hitomi, Matsuida-machi, Annaka-shi, Gunma, 379-0224, Japan
| | - Masaru Tachibana
- Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City University, 22-2 Seto, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan.
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29
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Preparation, functionalization and characterization of engineered carbon nanodots. Nat Protoc 2019; 14:2931-2953. [PMID: 31534230 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-019-0207-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Carbon-based dots (CDs) and their functionalized (nano)composites have recently attracted attention due to their seemingly easy preparation and numerous potential applications, ranging from those in the biomedical field (i.e., imaging and drug delivery) to those in (opto)electronics (i.e., solar cells and LEDs). This protocol details step-by-step procedures for synthesis, purification, functionalization and characterization of nitrogen-doped carbon nanodots (NCNDs), which we have been preparing for the past few years. First, we describe the bottom-up synthesis of NCNDs, starting with the use of molecular precursors (arginine (Arg) and ethylenediamine (EDA)) and making use of microwave-assisted hydrothermal heating. We also provide guidelines for the purification of these materials, through either dialysis or low-pressure size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). Second, we outline post-functionalization procedures for the surface modification of NCNDs, such as alkylation and amidation reactions. Third, we provide instructions for the preparation of NCNDs with different properties, such as color emission, electrochemistry and chirality. Given the fast evolution of preparations and applications of CDs, issues that might arise from artifacts, errors and impurities should be avoided. In this context, the present protocol aims to provide details and guidelines for the synthesis of high-quality nanomaterials with high reproducibility, for various applications. Furthermore, specific needs might require the CDs to be prepared by different synthetic procedures and/or from different molecular precursors, but such CDs can still benefit from the purification and characterization procedures outlined in this protocol. The sample preparation takes various time frames, ranging from 4 to 18 d, depending on the adopted synthesis and purification steps.
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30
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Sendão RMS, Crista DMA, Afonso ACP, Martínez de Yuso MDV, Algarra M, Esteves da Silva JCG, Pinto da Silva L. Insight into the hybrid luminescence showed by carbon dots and molecular fluorophores in solution. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2019; 21:20919-20926. [PMID: 31517344 DOI: 10.1039/c9cp03730f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Carbon dots have attracted great attention from the research community given their very attractive luminescent properties. However, the recent discovery that some of these properties may result from fluorescent impurities originating from the synthesis process, and not from the carbon dots themselves, constitute a significant setback to our knowledge of these materials. Herein, we proceeded to the study of carbon dots generated from citric acid and urea via a microwave-assisted synthesis, focusing on their analysis by AFM, HR-TEM, XPS, FT-IR, ESI-MS, UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. We have found that this synthesis process does generate molecular fluorophores that can mask the luminescence of the carbon dots. More importantly, our data demonstrates that when present in the same solution, the carbon dots and these fluorophores do not behave as separated species with individual emission. Instead, they interact to produce a hybrid luminescence, which excited state properties and reactivity are different from the properties of the individual species. These results indicate the possibility for the development of hybrid materials composed by carbon dots and related molecular fluorophores with new and improved properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo M S Sendão
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana M A Crista
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Carolina P Afonso
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Del Valle Martínez de Yuso
- X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Lab, Central Service to Support Research Bulding (SCAI), University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain
| | - Manuel Algarra
- CQM-Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Campus da Penteada, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
| | - Joaquim C G Esteves da Silva
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal and LACOMEPHI, GreenUPorto, Department of Geosciences, Environment and Territorial Planning, Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Luís Pinto da Silva
- Chemistry Research Unit (CIQUP), Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal and LACOMEPHI, GreenUPorto, Department of Geosciences, Environment and Territorial Planning, Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto, R. Campo Alegre 697, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
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31
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Zhou Y, Mintz KJ, Sharma SK, Leblanc RM. Carbon Dots: Diverse Preparation, Application, and Perspective in Surface Chemistry. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2019; 35:9115-9132. [PMID: 31267753 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.9b00595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are a novel class of nanoparticles with excellent properties. The development of CDs involves versatile synthesis, characterization, and various applications. However, the importance of surface chemistry of CDs, especially in applications, is often underestimated. In fact, the study of the surface chemistry of CDs is of great significance in the explanation of the unique properties of CDs as well as the pursuit of potential applications. In this feature article, we do not only introduce the development of CDs in our group but also highlight their applications where surface chemistry plays a critical role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Keenan J Mintz
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Shiv K Sharma
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
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32
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Seven ES, Sharma SK, Meziane D, Zhou Y, Mintz KJ, Pandey RR, Chusuei CC, Leblanc RM. Close-Packed Langmuir Monolayers of Saccharide-Based Carbon Dots at the Air-Subphase Interface. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2019; 35:6708-6718. [PMID: 31039318 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.9b00920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Carbon dots (CDs) are zero-dimensional carbon-based spherical nanoparticles with diameters less than 10 nm. Here, we report for the first time CDs forming stable Langmuir monolayers at the air-subphase interface. Langmuir monolayers are of great interest both fundamentally to study the interactions at the interfaces and for many applications such as the development of sensors. However, CDs usually do not form Langmuir monolayers because of their highly hydrophilic nature. In this study, amphiphilic CDs were prepared through hydrothermal carbonization using saccharides as the precursors. The surface chemistry behavior and optical properties of CDs at the air-subphase interface were studied. CDs derived from saccharides consistently formed stable Langmuir monolayers which show all essential phases, namely, gas, liquid-expanded, liquid-condensed, and solid phases. The compression-decompression cycle method showed minimum hysteresis (4.3%), confirming the retaining capacity of the CDs as a monolayer. Limiting CD areas from surface pressure-area isotherm at the air-subphase interface were used to calculate the average diameter of the CDs at the air-subphase interface. UV/vis absorption spectra of CDs dispersed in water and in Langmuir monolayers had the same bands in the UV region. The intensity of the UV/vis absorption increases with increasing surface pressure at the air-subphase interface. Interestingly, photoluminescence (PL) of the Langmuir monolayer of CDs was excitation-independent, whereas the same CDs had excitation-dependent PL when dispersed in water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif S Seven
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , 1301 Memorial Drive , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Shiv K Sharma
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , 1301 Memorial Drive , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Dihya Meziane
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , 1301 Memorial Drive , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , 1301 Memorial Drive , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Keenan J Mintz
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , 1301 Memorial Drive , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
| | - Raja R Pandey
- Department of Chemistry , Middle Tennessee State University , 440 Friendship Street , Murfreesboro , Tennessee 37132 , United States
| | - Charles C Chusuei
- Department of Chemistry , Middle Tennessee State University , 440 Friendship Street , Murfreesboro , Tennessee 37132 , United States
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry , University of Miami , 1301 Memorial Drive , Coral Gables , Florida 33146 , United States
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33
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Liyanage PY, Hettiarachchi SD, Zhou Y, Ouhtit A, Seven ES, Oztan CY, Celik E, Leblanc RM. Nanoparticle-mediated targeted drug delivery for breast cancer treatment. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2019; 1871:419-433. [PMID: 31034927 PMCID: PMC6549504 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy in women worldwide, and one of the deadliest after lung cancer. Currently, standard methods for cancer therapy including BC are surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. However, both chemotherapy and radiotherapy often fail to treat BC due to the side effects that these therapies incur in normal tissues and organs. In recent years, various nanoparticles (NPs) have been discovered and synthesized to be able to selectively target tumor cells without causing any harm to the healthy cells or organs. Therefore, NPs-mediated targeted drug delivery systems (DDS) have become a promising technique to treat BC. In addition to their selectivity to target tumor cells and reduce side effects, NPs have other unique properties which make them desirable for cancer treatment such as low toxicity, good compatibility, ease of preparation, high photoluminescence (PL) for bioimaging in vivo, and high loadability of drugs due to their tunable surface functionalities. In this study, we summarize with a critical analysis of the most recent therapeutic studies involving various NPs-mediated DDS as alternatives for the traditional treatment approaches for BC. It will shed light on the significance of NPs-mediated DDS and serve as a guide to seeking for the ideal methodology for future targeted drug delivery for an efficient BC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piumi Y Liyanage
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | | | - Yiqun Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Allal Ouhtit
- Department of Biological & Environmental Sciences, College of Arts & Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Elif S Seven
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Cagri Y Oztan
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Emrah Celik
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
| | - Roger M Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
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34
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Mintz KJ, Zhou Y, Leblanc RM. Recent development of carbon quantum dots regarding their optical properties, photoluminescence mechanism, and core structure. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:4634-4652. [PMID: 30834912 PMCID: PMC6467229 DOI: 10.1039/c8nr10059d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Carbon quantum dots (CDs) are a relatively new class of carbon nanomaterials which have been studied very much in the last fifteen years to improve their already favorable properties. The optical properties of CDs have drawn particular interest as they display the unusual trait of excitation-dependent emission, as well as high fluorescence quantum yields (QY), long photoluminescence (PL) decay lifetimes, and photostability. These qualities naturally lead researchers to apply CDs in the field of imaging (particularly bio-imaging) and sensing. Since the amount of publications regarding CDs has been growing nearly exponentially in the last ten years, many improvements have been made in the optical properties of CDs such as QY and PL lifetime. However, a great deal of confusion remains regarding the PL mechanism of CDs as well as their structural properties. Therefore, presented in this review is a summary and discussion of the QYs and PL lifetimes reported in recent years. The effect of method as well as precursor has been evaluated and discussed appropriately. The current theories regarding the PL mechanism of CDs are discussed, with special attention to the concept of surface state-controlled PL. With this knowledge, the improvement of preparation and applications of CDs related to their optical properties will be easily accomplished. Further improvements can be made to CDs through the understanding of their structural and optical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keenan J Mintz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, USA.
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35
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Stikane A, Hwang ET, Ainsworth E, Piper SEH, Critchley K, Butt JN, Reisner E, Jeuken LJC. Towards compartmentalized photocatalysis: multihaem proteins as transmembrane molecular electron conduits. Faraday Discuss 2019; 215:26-38. [DOI: 10.1039/c8fd00163d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We show a proof-of-concept for using MtrCAB as a lipid membrane-spanning building block for compartmentalised photocatalysis that mimics photosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Stikane
- School of Biomedical Sciences
- University of Leeds
- Leeds
- UK
- The Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology
| | - Ee Taek Hwang
- School of Biomedical Sciences
- University of Leeds
- Leeds
- UK
- The Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology
| | - Emma V. Ainsworth
- Centre for Molecular and Structural Biochemistry
- School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences
- University of East Anglia
- Norwich
- UK
| | - Samuel E. H. Piper
- Centre for Molecular and Structural Biochemistry
- School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences
- University of East Anglia
- Norwich
- UK
| | - Kevin Critchley
- The Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology
- University of Leeds
- Leeds
- UK
- School of Physics and Astronomy
| | - Julea N. Butt
- Centre for Molecular and Structural Biochemistry
- School of Chemistry and School of Biological Sciences
- University of East Anglia
- Norwich
- UK
| | - Erwin Reisner
- Department of Chemistry
- University of Cambridge
- Cambridge
- UK
| | - Lars J. C. Jeuken
- School of Biomedical Sciences
- University of Leeds
- Leeds
- UK
- The Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology
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36
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Embedding Carbon Dots in Superabsorbent Polymers for Additive Manufacturing. Polymers (Basel) 2018; 10:polym10080921. [PMID: 30960846 PMCID: PMC6403561 DOI: 10.3390/polym10080921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A type of orange carbon dots (O-CDs) synthesized via an ultrasonication route with citric acid and 1,2-phenylenediamine as precursors was embedded into sodium polyacrylate (SPA) as the ink for 3D printing. Characterizations of these spherical O-CDs revealed an ultra-small size (~2 nm) and excitation-independent, but solvent dependent, emission. The O-CDs were evenly distributed with low degree of aggregation in sodium polyacrylate (SPA), which was achieved due to the property that SPA can absorb water together with O-CDs. The 3D printed photoluminescent objective with the ink revealed a great potential for high yield application of these materials for additive manufacturing. This also represents the first time, bare CDs have been reported as a photoluminescent material in 3D printing, as well as the first time SPA has been reported as a material for 3D printing.
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