Recent work has shown that depth estimation from a stereo pair of images can be formulated as a supervised learning task to be resolved with convolutional neural networks (CNNs). However, current architectures rely on patch-based Siamese networks, lacking the means to exploit context information for finding correspondence in illposed regions. To tackle this problem, we propose PSM-Net, a pyramid stereo matching network consisting of two main modules: spatial pyramid pooling and 3D CNN. The spatial pyramid pooling module takes advantage of the capacity of global context information by aggregating context in different scales and locations to form a cost volume. The 3D CNN learns to regularize cost volume using stacked multiple hourglass networks in conjunction with intermediate supervision. The proposed approach was evaluated on several benchmark datasets. Our method ranked first in the KITTI 2012 and 2015 leaderboards before March 18, 2018. The codes of PSMNet are available at: https: //github.com/JiaRenChang/PSMNet.

The design and formation of a linear assembly of gold nanorods using a biomolecular recognition system are described. Anti-mouse IgG was immobilized on the {111} end faces of gold nanorods through a thioctic acid containing a terminal carboxyl group. The biofunctionalized nanorods can be assembled with the desired length using mouse IgG for biorecognition and binding. The gold nanorods can be assembled to extended nanorod chains, which can be as long as 3 microm. These assembled nanostructures may be used as the precursors for future nanodevices.

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In this review, we discuss recent advances of I–III–VI QDs with a major focus on synthesis and biomedical applications; advantages include low toxicity and fluorescent tuning in the biological window.

We propose a one-pot microwave-assisted pyrolysis method for fabrication of magnetofluorescent carbon quantum dots (MFCQDs), using a combination of waste crab shell and three different transition-metal ions, Gd, Mn, and Eu, referred to as Gd@CQDs, Mn@CQDs, and Eu@CQDs, respectively. Chitin from waste crab shell acted not only as a carbon source but also as a chelating ligand to form complexes with transition-metal ions. Gd@CQDs exhibited a high r relaxivity of 4.78 mM·s and a low r/r ratio of 1.33, suggesting that they show excellent potential as a T contrast agent. Mn@CQDs and Eu@CQDs showed high r relaxivity values of 140.7 and 28.32 mM·s, respectively, suggesting their potential for use as T contrast agents. Further conjugation of Gd@CQDs with folic acid (FA) enabled specific targeting to folate receptor-positive HeLa cells, as confirmed via in vitro magnetic resonance and fluorescence imaging. Doxorubicin (DOX) was selected as a model drug for conjugation with FA-Gd@CQDs. The as-prepared nanocomposites showed significantly higher cytotoxicity toward HeLa cells than free DOX. No apparent cytotoxicity was observed in vivo (zebrafish embryos) or in vitro (cell viability), suggesting that MFCQDs show potential for development as diagnostic probes or theranostic agents.

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a class of carbon nanomaterials that have recently gained recognition as current entrants to traditional semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). CQDs have the desirable advantages of low toxicity, environmental friendliness, low cost, photostability, favorable charge transfer with enhanced electronic conductivity, and their comparable easy synthesis protocols. This article examines advancements in CQD research and development, with a focus on their synthesis, functionalization, and energy applications. Initially, various synthesis methods are discussed briefly with pros and cons. Herein, first top-down methods including arc discharge technique, laser ablation technique, plasma treatment, ultrasound synthesis technique, electrochemical technique, chemical exfoliation, and combustion were discussed briefly. The later section presents bottom-up (microwave synthesis, hydrothermal synthesis, thermal pyrolysis, and MOF template-assisted approach) and waste-derived CQDs synthesis methods. The next section is focused on the energy applications of CQDs including supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, photovoltaics, hydrogen (HER), and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Finally, challenges and perspectives in this exciting and promising area are presented.

The development of gp120 targeted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) drug has improved antiretroviral therapies owing to its effects on attachment to target cells.

This paper demonstrates a proof-of-concept approach for encapsulating the anticancer drug tamoxifen, Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) and CdTe quantum dots (QDs) into size-controlled polycaprolactone (PCL) microcapsules utilizing microfluidic emulsification, which combined magnetic targeting, fluorescence imaging and drug controlled release properties into one drug delivery system. Cross-linking the composite PCL microcapsules with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) tailored their size, morphology, optical and magnetic properties and drug release behaviors. The flow conditions of the two immiscible solutions were adjusted in order to successfully generate various sizes of polymer droplets. The result showed superparamagnetic and fluorescent properties, and was used as a controlled drug release vehicle. The composite magnetic and fluorescent PCL microcapsules are potential candidates for a smart drug delivery system.