bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Gold Nanoparticle-Based Quick Small-Exosome Isolation Technique from Serum Sample at a Low Centrifugal Force
Authors: Pammi Guru Krishna Thej , Sreeja Jamuna Surendran , Dharmapal Dhrishya , Sengupta Suparna , Basu Palash Kumar
Published: May 2022

Exosomes are cell-secreted vesicles secreted by a majority of cells and, hence, populating most of the biological fluids, namely blood, tears, sweat, swab, urine, breast milk, etc. They vary vastly in size and density and are influenced by age, gender and diseases. The composition of exosomes includes lipids, DNA, proteins, and coding and noncoding RNA. There is a significant interest in selectively isolating small exosomes (≤50 nm) from human serum to investigate their role in different diseases and regeneration. However, current techniques for small exosome isolation/purification are time-consuming and highly instrument-dependent, with limited specificity and recovery. Thus, rapid and efficient methods to isolate them from bio fluids are strongly needed for both basic research and clinical applications. In the present work, we explored the application of a bench-top centrifuge for isolating mostly the small exosomes (≤50 nm). This can be achieved at low g-force by adding additional weight to the exosomes by conjugating them with citrate-capped gold nanoparticles (CGNP). CGNPs were functionalized with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to form PEGylated GNP (PGNP). EDC/SNHS chemistry is used to activate the –COOH group of the PEG to make it suitable for conjugation with antibodies corresponding to exosomal surface proteins. These antibody-conjugated PGNPs were incubated with the serum to form PGNP-exosome complexes which were separated directly by centrifugation at a low g-force of 7000× g. This makes this technique efficient compared to that of standard ultracentrifugation exosome isolation (which uses approximately 100,000× g). Using the technique, the exosome isolation from serum was achieved successfully in less than two hours. The purification of small exosomes, characterized by the presence of CD63, CD9 and CD81, and sized between 20 nm to 50 nm, was confirmed by western blot, dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analyser (NTA).
Computational Design of α-AsP/γ-AsP Vertical Two-Dimensional Homojunction for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Mao Yuliang , Du Yuting , Huang Zhipeng , Zhang Guanhua , Yuan Jianmei
Published: May 2022

Based on first-principles calculations, we design a α-AsP/γ-AsP homojunction with minimum lattice distortion. It is found that the α-AsP/γ-AsP homojunction has an indirect bandgap with an intrinsic type-II band alignment. The proposed α-AsP/γ-AsP homojunction exhibits high optical absorption of 1.6×106 cm−1 along the zigzag direction. A high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.08% is achieved in the designed α-AsP/γ-AsP homojunction, which implies it has potential applications in solar cells. Under 4% in-plane axial strain along the zigzag direction, a transition from indirect band gap to direct band gap is found in the α-AsP/γ-AsP homojunction. Moreover, the intrinsic type-II band alignment can be tuned to type-I band alignment under in-plane strain, which is crucial for its potential application in optical devices.
A Benchmark Evaluation of the isoAdvection Interface Description Method for Thermally–Driven Phase Change Simulation
Authors: Yahyaee Ali , Bahman Amir Sajjad , Sørensen Henrik
Published: May 2022

A benchmark study is conducted using isoAdvection as the interface description method. In different studies for the simulation of the thermal phase change of nanofluids, the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method is a contemporary standard to locate the interface position. One of the main drawbacks of VOF is the smearing of the interface, leading to the generation of spurious flows. To solve this problem, the VOF method can be supplemented with a recently introduced geometric method called isoAdvection. We study four benchmark cases that show how isoAdvection affects the simulation results and expose its relative strengths and weaknesses in different scenarios. Comparisons are made with VOF employing the Multidimensional Universal Limiter for Explicit Solution (MULES) limiter and analytical data and experimental correlations. The impact of nanoparticles on the base fluid are considered using empirical equations from the literature. The benchmark cases are 1D and 2D boiling and condensation problems. Their results show that isoAdvection (with isoAlpha reconstruct scheme) delivers a faster solution than MULES while maintaining nearly the same accuracy and convergence rate in the majority of thermal phase change scenarios.
Polymorphic Phase Transformations in Nanocrystalline Ag2S Silver Sulfide in a Wide Temperature Interval and Influence of Nanostructured Ag2S on the Interface Formation in Ag2S/ZnS Heteronanostructure
Authors: Valeeva Albina A. , Sadovnikov Stanislav I. , Gusev Aleksandr I.
Published: May 2022

Phase transformations that take place in nanocrystalline Ag2S silver sulfide have been systematically studied at temperatures from 298 to 893 K. The crystal structures of the polymorphic modifications α-Ag2S, β-Ag2S, and γ-Ag2S of nanocrystalline Ag2S have been found. It is established that the interstitial spacings between ions of silver in the superionic phases β-Ag2S and γ-Ag2S are noticeably smaller than diameter of the Ag+ ion. As a result of which, the probabilities of filling the sites of the metal sublattices of these phases with Ag atoms are very small. It was found that the “α-Ag2S—β-Ag2S” and “β-Ag2S—γ-Ag2S” transitions between polymorphic modifications of silver sulfide occur as phase transformations of the first order at temperatures of ~440–442 K and ~850–860 K. The structure of interface forming by nanostructured Ag2S and ZnS is considered, taking into account the anisotropy of elastic properties of these sulfides. It is established that a large amount of cubic zinc sulfide stabilizes the cubic structure of β-Ag2S argentite at 300 K during the co-deposition of Ag2S/ZnS heteronanostructures from colloid solutions. It is found that placing Ag atoms at four crystallographic positions located in one plane of the unit cell of cubic β-Ag2S argentite is most favorable for the appearance of Ag2S/ZnS heterostructures. The smallest strain distortions at the interface are observed at the minimum difference of shear moduli of the components forming heteronanostructure. The distributions of elastic characteristics, including the shear moduli of monocrystalline particles of cubic β-Ag2S argentite and ZnS sphalerite from the [hkl] direction, are found. The formation of Ag2S/ZnS heteronanostructures, in which the interface is formed by the (hk0) ≡ (110) plane of ZnS sphalerite and the (hk 0.4123) ≡ (1 1 0.4123) plane of β-Ag2S argentite, is the most energetically favorable.
Food-Grade Titanium Dioxide Induces Toxicity in the Nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and Acute Hepatic and Pulmonary Responses in Mice
Authors: Sitia Giovanni , Fiordaliso Fabio , Violatto Martina B. , Alarcon Jennifer Fernandez , Talamini Laura , Corbelli Alessandro , Ferreira Lorena Maria , Tran Ngoc Lan , Chakraborty Indranath , Salmona Mario , Parak Wolfgang J. , Diomede Luisa , Bigini Paolo
Published: May 2022

Food-grade titanium dioxide (E171) contains variable percentages of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs), posing concerns for its potential effects on human and animal health. Despite many studies, the actual relationship between the physicochemical properties of E171 NPs and their interaction with biological targets is still far from clear. We evaluated the impact of acute E171 administration on invertebrate and vertebrate animals. In the nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, the administration of up to 1.0 mg/mL of E171 did not affect the worm’s viability and lifespan, but significantly impaired its pharyngeal function, reproduction, and development. We also investigated whether the intravenous administration of E171 in mice (at the dose of 6 mg/kg/body weight) could result in an acute over-absorption of filter organs. A significant increase of hepatic titanium concentration and the formation of microgranulomas were observed. Interstitial inflammation and parenchymal modification were found in the lungs, coupled with titanium accumulation. This was probably due to the propensity of TiO2 NPs to agglomerate, as demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy experiments showing that the incubation of E171 with serum promoted the formation of compact clusters. Overall, these data emphasize the actual risk for human and animal exposure to E171.
Modulation of Inflammation by Plant-Derived Nutraceuticals in Tendinitis
Authors: Mueller Anna-Lena , Brockmueller Aranka , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B. , Shakibaei Mehdi
Published: May 2022

Tendinitis (tendinopathy) is a pro-inflammatory and painful tendon disease commonly linked with mechanical overuse and associated injuries, drug abuse, and lifestyle factors (including poor diet and physical inactivity) that causes significant healthcare expenditures due to its high incidence. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is one of the major pro-inflammatory transcription factors, along with other inflammation signaling pathways, triggered by a variety of stimuli, including cytokines, endotoxins, physical and chemical stressors, hypoxia, and other pro-inflammatory factors. Their activation is known to regulate the expression of a multitude of genes involved in inflammation, degradation, and cell death. The pathogenesis of tendinitis is still poorly understood, whereas efficient and sustainable treatment is missing. Targeting drug suppression of the key inflammatory regulators represents an effective strategy for tendinitis therapy, but requires a comprehensive understanding of their principles of action. Conventional monotherapies are often ineffective and associated with severe side effects in patients. Therefore, agents that modulate multiple cellular targets represent therapeutic treatment potential. Plant-derived nutraceuticals have been shown to act as multi-targeting agents against tendinitis via various anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, whereat they were able to specifically modulate numerous signaling pathways, including NF-κB, p38/MAPK, JNK/STAT3, and PI3K/Akt, thus down-regulating inflammatory processes. This review discusses the utility of herbal nutraceuticals that have demonstrated safety and tolerability as anti-inflammatory agents for the prevention and treatment of tendinitis through the suppression of catabolic signaling pathways. Limitations associated with the use of nutraceuticals are also described.
Improvement of the Clinical and Psychological Profile of Patients with Autism after Methylcobalamin Syrup Administration
Authors: Čorejová Adela , Fazekaš Tomáš , Jánošíková Daniela , Repiský Juraj , Pospíšilová Veronika , Miková Maria , Rauová Drahomíra , Ostatníková Daniela , Kyselovič Ján , Hrabovská Anna
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Autism, also known as autism-spectrum disorder, is a pervasive developmental disorder affecting social skills and psychological status in particular. The complex etiopathogenesis of autism limits efficient therapy, which leads to problems with the normal social integration of the individual and causes severe family distress. Injectable methylcobalamin was shown to improve the clinical status of patients via enhanced cell oxidative status and/or methylation capacity. Here we tested the efficiency of a syrup form of methylcobalamin in treating autism. (2) Methods: Methylcobalamin was administered daily at 500 µg dose to autistic children and young adults (n = 25) during a 200-day period. Clinical and psychological status was evaluated by parents and psychologists and plasma levels of reduced and oxidized glutathione, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and cysteine were determined before the treatment, and at day 100 and day 200 of the treatment. (3) Results: Good patient compliance was reported. Methylcobalamin treatment gradually improved the overall clinical and psychological status, with the highest impact in the social domain, followed by the cognitive, behavioral and communication characteristics. Changes in the clinical and psychological status were strongly associated with the changes in the level of reduced glutathione and reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio. (4) Conclusion: A high dose of methylcobalamin administered in syrup form ameliorates the clinical and psychological status of autistic individuals, probably due to the improved oxidative status.
The Complex Role of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Food Detoxification
Authors: Petrova Penka , Arsov Alexander , Tsvetanova Flora , Parvanova-Mancheva Tsvetomila , Vasileva Evgenia , Tsigoriyna Lidia , Petrov Kaloyan
Published: May 2022

Toxic ingredients in food can lead to serious food-related diseases. Such compounds are bacterial toxins (Shiga-toxin, listeriolysin, Botulinum toxin), mycotoxins (aflatoxin, ochratoxin, zearalenone, fumonisin), pesticides of different classes (organochlorine, organophosphate, synthetic pyrethroids), heavy metals, and natural antinutrients such as phytates, oxalates, and cyanide-generating glycosides. The generally regarded safe (GRAS) status and long history of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as essential ingredients of fermented foods and probiotics make them a major biological tool against a great variety of food-related toxins. This state-of-the-art review aims to summarize and discuss the data revealing the involvement of LAB in the detoxification of foods from hazardous agents of microbial and chemical nature. It is focused on the specific properties that allow LAB to counteract toxins and destroy them, as well as on the mechanisms of microbial antagonism toward toxigenic producers. Toxins of microbial origin are either adsorbed or degraded, toxic chemicals are hydrolyzed and then used as a carbon source, while heavy metals are bound and accumulated. Based on these comprehensive data, the prospects for developing new combinations of probiotic starters for food detoxification are considered.
A Theoretical Study on the Photochemical Isomerization of 2,6-Dimethylpyrazine
Authors: D’Auria Maurizio
Published: May 2022

DFT calculations on the photoisomerization of 2,6-dimethylpyrazine allowed us to confirm the role of benzvalene isomers in the isomerization of hexatomic heterocyclic compounds. 2,6-Dimethylpyrazine in the excited singlet states can be converted into the corresponding Dewar isomers. If the S2 state is populated, two Dewar isomers can be obtained, while the S1 state allows the formation of only one of the possible Dewar isomers. Both Dewar isomers can be converted into the benzvalene isomer, that is, the precursor of 4,5-dimethylpyrimidine, the reaction product. In fact, the benzvalene isomer can be obtained from the Dewar isomers in processes that occur without an activation energy, and it is the more stable benzvalene isomers that can be obtained from the Dewar isomers. CASSCF study indicates the presence of a conical intersection allowing the direct formation of the benzvalene isomer.
Efficacy of Polymer-Based Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Brain Cancer
Authors: Naki Tobeka , Aderibigbe Blessing A.
Published: May 2022

Malignant brain tumor is a life-threatening disease with a low survival rate. The therapies available for the treatment of brain tumor is limited by poor uptake via the blood–brain barrier. The challenges with the chemotherapeutics used for the treatment of brain tumors are poor distribution, drug toxicity, and their inability to pass via the blood–brain barrier, etc. Several researchers have investigated the potential of nanomedicines for the treatment of brain cancer. Nanomedicines are designed with nanosize particle sizes with a large surface area and are loaded with bioactive agents via encapsulation, immersion, conjugation, etc. Some nanomedicines have been approved for clinical use. The most crucial part of nanomedicine is that they promote drug delivery across the blood–brain barrier, display excellent specificity, reduce drug toxicity, enhance drug bioavailability, and promote targeted drug release mechanisms. The aforementioned features make them promising therapeutics for brain targeting. This review reports the in vitro and in vivo results of nanomedicines designed for the treatment of brain cancers.
An Advanced Bioreactor Simulating Dynamic Physiological Conditions in the Human Ascending Colon: MimiCol3
Authors: Beeck Regine , Dols Annemarie , Schneider Felix , Seradj Dariah-Sohreh , Krause Julius , Schick Philipp , Weitschies Werner
Published: May 2022

In recent years, the colon has become a hot topic in biopharmaceutical research as several in vitro models of the human colon have been presented. A major focus is on the characterization of the microbiota and its capabilities. The aim of the present study was to further develop the MimiCol, preserving its properties and accelerating data acquisition. Emphasis was placed on the simplicity of its design and easy scalability. To prove the viability of the concept, degradation of sulfasalazine was investigated, and the bacterial composition during the experiment was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing. The transfer of the experimental conditions to the new model was successful. Commercially available components were implemented in the setup. The model MimiCol3 represented the colon ascendens satisfactorily in its properties regarding volume, pH value, and redox potential. 16S rRNA sequencing led to further insights into the bacterial composition in the vessels. Degradation of sulfasalazine was in good agreement with in vivo data. The new model of the colon ascendens MimiCol3 enabled us to collect more reliable data, as three experiments were conducted simultaneously under the same conditions.
Raman Mapping-Based Reverse Engineering Facilitates Development of Sustained-Release Nifedipine Tablet
Authors: Sun Ningyun , Chang Liang , Lu Yi , Wu Wei
Published: May 2022

The development of generic preparations that are bioequivalent to a reference listed drug (RLD) is faced with challenges because some critical attributes of RLDs are commonly unknown to developers. In order to determine these attributes, Raman mapping-based reverse engineering in this study to analyze a model sustained-release tablet of nifedipine. The Raman mapping results indicate that the size and size distribution of nifedipine are critical to its release pattern and bioavailability. The tablets with a particle size of nifedipine comparable to that of a commercial product, Adalat®-L, showed similar in vitro release profiles to the RLD. Moreover, a pharmacokinetic study in human volunteers proved the bioequivalence of the two preparations. In conclusion, Raman mapping-based reverse engineering has the potential to facilitate the development of generic preparations.
Integrin-αvβ3 as a Therapeutic Target in Glioblastoma: Back to the Future?
Authors: Echavidre William , Picco Vincent , Faraggi Marc , Montemagno Christopher
Published: May 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor, is associated with a dismal prognosis. Standard therapies including maximal surgical resection, radiotherapy, and temozolomide chemotherapy remain poorly efficient. Improving GBM treatment modalities is, therefore, a paramount challenge for researchers and clinicians. GBMs exhibit the hallmark feature of aggressive invasion into the surrounding tissue. Among cell surface receptors involved in this process, members of the integrin family are known to be key actors of GBM invasion. Upregulation of integrins was reported in both tumor and stromal cells, making them a suitable target for innovative therapies targeting integrins in GBM patients, as their impairment disrupts tumor cell proliferation and invasive capacities. Among them, integrin-αvβ3 expression correlates with high-grade GBM. Driven by a plethora of preclinical biological studies, antagonists of αvβ3 rapidly became attractive therapeutic candidates to impair GBM tumorigenesis. In this perspective, the advent of nuclear medicine is currently one of the greatest components of the theranostic concept in both preclinical and clinical research fields. In this review, we provided an overview of αvβ3 expression in GBM to emphasize the therapeutic agents developed. Advanced current and future developments in the theranostic field targeting αvβ3 are finally discussed.
Randomized and Controlled Clinical Studies on Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy: An Overview
Authors: Alves Fernanda , Stringasci Mirian D. , Requena Michelle B. , Blanco Kate C. , Dias Lucas D. , Corrêa Thaila Q. , Bagnato Vanderlei S.
Published: May 2022

The emergence of drug-resistant bacteria is considered a critical public health problem. The need to establish alternative approaches to countering resistant microorganisms is unquestionable in overcoming this problem. Among emerging alternatives, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has become promising to control infectious diseases. aPDT is based on the activation of a photosensitizer (PS) by a particular wavelength of light followed by generation of the reactive oxygen. These interactions result in the production of reactive oxygen species, which are lethal to bacteria. Several types of research have shown that aPDT has been successfully studied in in vitro, in vivo, and randomized clinical trials (RCT). Considering the lack of reviews of RCTs studies with aPDT applied in bacteria in the literature, we performed a systematic review of aPDT randomized clinical trials for the treatment of bacteria-related diseases. According to the literature published from 2008 to 2022, the RCT study of aPDT was mostly performed for periodontal disease, followed by halitosis, dental infection, peri-implantitis, oral decontamination, and skin ulcers. A variety of PSs, light sources, and protocols were efficiently used, and the treatment did not cause any side effects for the individuals.
Reactions of Graphene Nano-Flakes in Materials Chemistry and Astrophysics
Authors: Tachikawa Hiroto , Iyama Tetsuji
Published: May 2022

The elucidation of the mechanism of the chemical evolution of the universe is one of the most important themes in astrophysics. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) provide a two-dimensional reaction field in a three-dimensional interstellar space. Additionally, PAHs play an important role as a model of graphene nanoflake (GNF) in materials chemistry. In the present review, we introduce our recent theoretical studies on the reactions of PAH and GNF with several molecules (or radicals). Furthermore, a hydrogen storage mechanism for alkali-doped GNFs and the molecular design of a reversible hydrogen storage device based on GNF will be introduced. Elucidating these reactions is important in understanding the chemical evolution of the universe and gives deeper insight into materials chemistry.
Enantiomer-Selective Characterization of the Adsorption, Dissipation, and Phytotoxicity of the Plant Monoterpene Pulegone in Soils
Authors: Galán-Pérez Jose Antonio , Gámiz Beatriz , Pavlovic Ivana , Celis Rafael
Published: May 2022

Plant monoterpenes have received attention for their ecological functions and as potential surrogates for synthetic herbicides, but very little is known about the processes that govern their behavior in the soil environment, and even less about the possible enantioselectivity in the functions and environmental behavior of chiral monoterpenes. We characterized the adsorption and dissipation of the two enantiomers of the chiral monoterpene pulegone in different soils, and their phytotoxicity to different plant species through Petri dish and soil bioassays. R- and S-pulegone displayed a low-to-moderate non-enantioselective adsorption on the soils that involved weak interaction mechanisms. Soil incubation experiments indicated that, once in the soil, R- and S-pulegone are expected to suffer rapid volatilization and scarcely enantioselective, biodegradation losses. In Petri dishes, the phytotoxicity of pulegone and its enantioselectivity to Lactuca sativa, Hordeum vulgare, and Eruca sativa was species-dependent. Lactuca sativa was the most sensitive species and showed higher susceptibility to S- than to R-pulegone. Biodegradation and volatilization losses greatly reduced the phytotoxic activity of S-pulegone applied to soil, but the addition of a highly-adsorptive organoclay stabilized the monoterpene and increased its phytotoxic effect. Stabilization by adsorption may represent an important mechanism by which the bioactivity of plant monoterpenes in soils can be increased.
Tryptophan Levels as a Marker of Auxins and Nitric Oxide Signaling
Authors: López-Gómez Pedro , Smith Edward N. , Bota Pedro , Cornejo Alfonso , Urra Marina , Buezo Javier , Moran Jose F.
Published: May 2022

The aromatic amino acid tryptophan is the main precursor for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), which involves various parallel routes in plants, with indole-3-acetaldoxime (IAOx) being one of the most common intermediates. Auxin signaling is well known to interact with free radical nitric oxide (NO) to perform a more complex effect, including the regulation of root organogenesis and nitrogen nutrition. To fathom the link between IAA and NO, we use a metabolomic approach to analyze the contents of low-molecular-mass molecules in cultured cells of Arabidopsis thaliana after the application of S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), an NO donor or IAOx. We separated the crude extracts of the plant cells through ion-exchange columns, and subsequent fractions were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), thus identifying 26 compounds. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed on N-metabolism-related compounds, as classified by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). The differences observed between controls and treatments are mainly explained by the differences in Trp contents, which are much higher in controls. Thus, the Trp is a shared response in both auxin- and NO-mediated signaling, evidencing some common signaling mechanism to both GSNO and IAOx. The differences in the low-molecular-mass-identified compounds between GSNO- and IAOx-treated cells are mainly explained by their concentrations in benzenepropanoic acid, which is highly associated with IAA levels, and salicylic acid, which is related to glutathione. These results show that the contents in Trp can be a marker for the study of auxin and NO signaling.
Thermoplastic Starch with Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) Blends Foamed by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Chang Chih-Jen , Venkatesan Manikandan , Cho Chia-Jung , Chung Ping-Yu , Chandrasekar Jayashree , Lee Chen-Hung , Wang Hsin-Ta , Wong Chang-Ming , Kuo Chi-Ching
Published: May 2022

Starch-based biodegradable foams with a high starch content are developed using industrial starch as the base material and supercritical CO2 as blowing or foaming agents. The superior cushioning properties of these foams can lead to competitiveness in the market. Despite this, a weak melting strength property of starch is not sufficient to hold the foaming agents within it. Due to the rapid diffusion of foaming gas into the environment, it is difficult for starch to maintain pore structure in starch foams. Therefore, producing starch foam by using supercritical CO2 foaming gas faces severe challenges. To overcome this, we have synthesized thermoplastic starch (TPS) by dispersing starch into water or glycerin. Consecutively, the TPS surface was modified by compatibilizer silane A (SA) to improve the dispersion with poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) to become (TPS with SA)/PBAT composite foam. Furthermore, the foam-forming process was optimized by varying the ratios of TPS and PBAT under different forming temperatures of 85 °C to 105 °C, and two different pressures, 17 Mpa and 23 Mpa were studied in detail. The obtained results indicate that the SA surface modification on TPS can influence the great compatibility with PBAT blended foams (foam density: 0.16 g/cm3); whereas unmodified TPS and PBAT (foam density: 0.349 g/cm3) exhibit high foam density, rigid foam structure, and poor tensile properties. In addition, we have found that the 80% TPS/20% PBAT foam can be achieved with good flexible properties. Because of this flexibility, lightweight and environment-friendly nature, we have the opportunity to resolve the strong demands from the packing market.
The Influence of Fly Ash on the Mechanical Properties of Water Immersed All Waste Composites
Authors: Cosnita Mihaela , Balas Monica , Cazan Cristina
Published: May 2022

The paper presents new value-added composite materials prepared by recycling tire rubber, polyethene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethene (HDPE), wood sawdust, and fly ash. The composites were manufactured through the compression molding technique for three temperatures (150 °C, 160 °C, and 190 °C) previously optimized. The addition of fly ash as reinforcement in polymer blends is a viable route to improve the composite” properties. The paper aims to assess the effect of fly ash on the mechanical properties and water stability of the new all waste composites considering their applications as outdoor products. The static tensile (stress-strain behavior) and compression properties of the composites were tested. The fly ash composites were characterized in terms of wetting behavior and surface energies (contact angle measurements); chemical structure of the new interface developed between composite” components (FTIR analysis), crystalline structure (XRD analysis), surface morphology and topography (SEM, AFM). The addition of fly ash promoted the development of the hybrid interfaces in the new composites, as FTIR analysis has shown, which, in turn, greatly improved the mechanical and water resistance. The novel all waste composites exhibited lower surface energies, larger contact angles, and smoother morphologies when compared to those with no fly ash. Overall, the study results have revealed that fly ash has improved the mechanical strength and water stability of the composites through the formation of strong hybrid interfaces. The study results show optimal water stability and tensile strength for 0.5% fly ash composites cured at 190 °C and optimal compressive strength with good water stability for 1% fly ash composite cured at 150 °C.
Effects and Impacts of Different Oxidative Digestion Treatments on Virgin and Aged Microplastic Particles
Authors: Savino Ilaria , Campanale Claudia , Trotti Pasquale , Massarelli Carmine , Corriero Giuseppe , Uricchio Vito Felice
Published: May 2022

Although several sample preparation methods for analyzing microplastics (MPs) in environmental matrices have been implemented in recent years, important uncertainties and criticalities in the approaches adopted still persist. Preliminary purification of samples, based on oxidative digestion, is an important phase to isolate microplastics from the environmental matrix; it should guarantee both efficacy and minimal damage to the particles. In this context, our study aims to evaluate Fenton’s reaction digestion pre-treatment used to isolate and extract microplastics from environmental matrices. We evaluated the particle recovery efficiency and the impact of the oxidation method on the integrity of the MPs subjected to digestion considering different particles’ polymeric composition, size, and morphology. For this purpose, two laboratory experiments were set up: the first one to evaluate the efficacy of various digestion protocols in the MPs extraction from a complex matrix, and the second one to assess the possible harm of different treatments, differing in temperatures and volume reagents used, on virgin and aged MPs. Morphological, physicochemical, and dimensional changes were verified by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The findings of the first experiment showed the greatest difference in recovery rates especially for polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate particles, indicating the role of temperature and the kind of polymer as the major factors influencing MPs extraction. In the second experiment, the SEM analysis revealed morphological and particle size alterations of various entities, in particular for the particles treated at 75 °C and with major evident alterations of aged MPs to virgin ones. In conclusion, this study highlights how several factors, including temperature and polymer, influence the integrity of the particles altering the quality of the final data.
Effect of the Composition of Copolymers Based on Glycidyl Methacrylate and Fluoroalkyl Methacrylates on the Free Energy and Lyophilic Properties of the Modified Surface
Authors: Klimov Viktor , Kolyaganova Olga , Bryuzgin Evgeny , Navrotsky Alexander , Novakov Ivan
Published: May 2022

This study proposes to use reactive copolymers based on glycidyl methacrylate and fluoroalkyl methacrylates with a low fluorine content in the monomer unit as agents to reduce the surface free energy (SFE). This work reveals the effect of the structure and composition of copolymers on the SFE and water-repellent properties of these coatings. On a smooth surface, coatings based on copolymers of glycidyl methacrylate and fluoroalkyl methacrylates with fluorine atoms in the monomer unit ranging from three to seven are characterized by SFE values in the range from 25 to 13 mN/m, which is comparable to the values for polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes and perfluoroalkyl acrylates. On textured aluminum surfaces, the obtained coatings provide time-stable superhydrophobic properties with contact angles up to 170° and sliding angles up to 2°. The possibility of using copolymers based on glycidyl methacrylate and fluoroalkyl methacrylates for the creation of self-cleaning polymer coatings is shown.
The Influence of the Structure of Selected Polymers on Their Properties and Food-Related Applications
Authors: Koczoń Piotr , Josefsson Heidi , Michorowska Sylwia , Tarnowska Katarzyna , Kowalska Dorota , Bartyzel Bartłomiej J. , Niemiec Tomasz , Lipińska Edyta , Gruczyńska-Sękowska Eliza
Published: May 2022

Every application of a substance results from the macroscopic property of the substance that is related to the substance’s microscopic structure. For example, the forged park gate in your city was produced thanks to the malleability and ductility of metals, which are related to the ability of shifting of layers of metal cations, while fire extinguishing powders use the high boiling point of compounds related to their regular ionic and covalent structures. This also applies to polymers. The purpose of this review is to summarise and present information on selected food-related biopolymers, with special attention on their respective structures, related properties, and resultant applications. Moreover, this paper also highlights how the treatment method used affects the structure, properties, and, hence, applications of some polysaccharides. Despite a strong focus on food-related biopolymers, this review is addressed to a broad community of both material engineers and food researchers.
Overview on Foam Forming Cellulose Materials for Cushioning Packaging Applications
Authors: Nechita Petronela , Năstac Silviu Marian
Published: May 2022

Wet foam can be used as a carrier in the manufacturing of lightweight materials based on natural and man-made fibers and specific additives. Using a foam forming method and cellulose fibers, it is possible to produce the porous materials with large area of end-using such as protective and cushioning packaging, filtering, hydroponic, thermal and sound absorption insulation, or other building materials. In comparison with the water-forming used for conventional paper products, foam-forming method provides many advantages. In particular, since fibers inside the foam are mostly trapped between the foam bubbles, the formed materials have an excellent homogeneity. This allows for using long fibers and a high consistency in head box without significant fiber flocking. As result, important savings in water and energy consumptions for dewatering and drying of the foam formed materials are obtained. In cushioning packaging, foam-formed cellulose materials have their specific advantages comparing to other biodegradable packaging (corrugated board, molded pulp) and can be a sustainable alternative to existing synthetic foams (i.e., expanded polystyrene or polyurethane foams). This review discusses the technical parameters to be controlled during foam forming of cellulose materials to ensure their performances as cushioning and protective packaging. The focus was on the identification of practical solutions to compensate the strength decreasing caused by reduced density and low resistance to water of foam formed cellulose materials.
Evaluation of Compressive Strength and Thermal Conductivity of Sand Stabilized with Epoxy Emulsion and Polymer Solution
Authors: Park Sung-Sik , Park Jun-Woo , Yoon Keun-Byoung , Park Il Seouk , Woo Seung-Wook , Lee Dong-Eun
Published: May 2022

This paper presents findings obtained by evaluating the compressive strength, thermal conductivity, and durability of sand cylinder specimens stabilized with either epoxy emulsion (EM), acrylic polymer aqueous solution (APAS), EM-APAS mixture, or EM-APAS-lime mixture. Given the data obtained from the laboratory test, simulation analysis that uses a heat transfer fluid model of a ground-coupled heat pump (GCHP) system confirms the EM-APAS-lime binder performs best in the compressive strength and thermal conductivity; EM-APAS mixture performs best in the durability. However, the slake durability index of specimens containing EM-APAS-lime is equal to or greater than 80%. In addition, the compressive strength of sand stabilized with the EM-APAS-lime mixture is more than three times that of sand stabilized with cement. The thermal conductivity of sand stabilized with cement and that of sand treated with EM-APAS-lime mixture are 0.1 W/m·K and 0.9–1 W/m·K, respectively. It is confirmed that the heat collection of sand stabilized with EM-APAS-lime outperforms five times over that of sand stabilized with cement. These findings provide admissible evidence that the EM-APAS-lime mixture, which outperforms cement in compressive strength and thermal conductivity, is most suitable for ground improvement binder for GCHP systems.
Stimulus-Responsiveness of Thermo-Sensitive Polymer Hybridized with N-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots and Its Applications in Solvent Recognition and Fe3+ Ion Detection
Authors: Chen Tong , Zhang Hongwei , Zhao Sanping
Published: May 2022

To fabricate N-CQDs hybrid thermo-sensitive polymer (poly-N-CQDs), N-doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) with strong blue fluorescence and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) (poly(NIPAAm-co-AAc)) copolymer with thermo-sensitivity were synthesized, respectively. Subsequently, the coupling reaction between. the -COOH groups of poly(NIPAAm-co-AAc) and the -NH2 groups on the surface of the N-CQDs was carried out. The fluorescence spectra show that the coil-globule transition of the poly-N-CQDs coincided with intensity changes in the scattering peak at excitation wavelength with the temperature variations. The phase transition temperature and the fluorescent intensity of poly-N-CQDs can be regulated by modulating the composition and concentration of poly-N-CQDs as well as the temperature and pH of the local medium. The thermo-sensitivity and fluorescent properties of the poly-N-CQDs displayed good stability and reversibility. The fluorescence intensity and emission wavelengths of the poly-N-CQDs significantly changed in different solvents for solvent recognition. The poly-N-CQDs was employed as a fluorescent probe for Fe3+ detection ranging from 0.025 to 1 mM with a limit of detection (LOD) of 9.49 μM. The hybrid polymer materials have the potential to develop an N-CQDs-based thermo-sensitive device or sensor.
Fabrication of Electrospun Juglans regia (Juglone) Loaded Poly(lactic acid) Scaffolds as a Potential Wound Dressing Material
Authors: Altan Eray , Karacelebi Yasin , Saatcioglu Elif , Ulag Songul , Sahin Ali , Aksu Burak , Croitoru Alexa-Maria , Codrea Cosmin Iulian , Ficai Denisa , Gunduz Oguzhan , Ficai Anton
Published: May 2022

Juglone (5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone) (J) is a naphthoquinone structured allelochemical that is mostly found in the roots, leaves, nut-hulls, bark, and wood of walnut (Juglans regia). In this study, the biocompatibility, mechanical, thermal, chemical, morphological, and antimicrobial properties of the poly(lactic acid) (PLA) (w/v)/J (10, 20, 30 mg) electrospun scaffolds were investigated. Based on the results of the study, it was shown that juglone addition increased the antimicrobial properties of the scaffolds against the Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), compared to the neat PLA film after 24 h of contact time. According to the tensile test results, the addition of J made the scaffolds more flexible but decreased the mechanical strength. The cytotoxicity properties of the J-added scaffolds demonstrated a toxic behavior on the first day of incubation. However, with an increase in the J ratio, the fibroblast cell metabolic activity increased for all incubation periods.
Fabrication of Recycled Polycarbonate Fibre for Thermal Signature Reduction in Camouflage Textiles
Authors: Soekoco Asril , Rehman Ateeq Ur , Fauzi Ajisetia , Tasya Hamdi , Diandra Purnama , Tasa Islami , Nugraha  , Yuliarto Brian
Published: May 2022

Thermal signature reduction in camouflage textiles is a vital requirement to protect soldiers from detection by thermal imaging equipment in low-light conditions. Thermal signature reduction can be achieved by decreasing the surface temperature of the subject by using a low thermally conductive material, such as polycarbonate, which contains bisphenol A. Polycarbonate is a hard type of plastic that generally ends up in dumps and landfills. Accordingly, there is a large amount of polycarbonate waste that needs to be managed to reduce its drawbacks to the environment. Polycarbonate waste has great potential to be used as a material for recycled fibre by the melt spinning method. In this research, polycarbonate roofing-sheet waste was extruded using a 2 mm diameter of spinnerette and a 14 mm barrel diameter in a 265 °C temperature process by using a lab-scale melt spinning machine at various plunger and take-up speeds. The fibres were then inserted into 1 × 1 rib-stitch knitted fabric made by Nm 15 polyacrylic commercial yarns, which were manufactured by a flat knitting machine. The results showed that applying recycled polycarbonate fibre as a fibre insertion in polyacrylic knitted fabric reduced the emitted infrared and thermal signature of the fabric.
Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) Nanocomposites with Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Usurelu Catalina Diana , Badila Stefania , Frone Adriana Nicoleta , Panaitescu Denis Mihaela
Published: May 2022

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is one of the most promising substitutes for the petroleum-based polymers used in the packaging and biomedical fields due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, good stiffness, and strength, along with its good gas-barrier properties. One route to overcome some of the PHB’s weaknesses, such as its slow crystallization, brittleness, modest thermal stability, and low melt strength is the addition of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and the production of PHB/CNCs nanocomposites. Choosing the adequate processing technology for the fabrication of the PHB/CNCs nanocomposites and a suitable surface treatment for the CNCs are key factors in obtaining a good interfacial adhesion, superior thermal stability, and mechanical performances for the resulting nanocomposites. The information provided in this review related to the preparation routes, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties of the PHB/CNCs nanocomposites may represent a starting point in finding new strategies to reduce the manufacturing costs or to design better technological solutions for the production of these materials at industrial scale. It is outlined in this review that the use of low-value biomass resources in the obtaining of both PHB and CNCs might be a safe track for a circular and bio-based economy. Undoubtedly, the PHB/CNCs nanocomposites will be an important part of a greener future in terms of successful replacement of the conventional plastic materials in many engineering and biomedical applications.
PVA-Based Electrospun Biomembranes with Hydrolyzed Collagen and Ethanolic Extract of Hypericum perforatum for Potential Use as Wound Dressing: Fabrication and Characterization
Authors: García-Hernández Alitzel , Morales-Sánchez Eduardo , Berdeja-Martínez Blanca , Escamilla-García Monserrat , Salgado-Cruz Ma. , Rentería-Ortega Minerva , Farrera-Rebollo Reynold , Vega-Cuellar Miguel , Calderón-Domínguez Georgina
Published: May 2022

Biological, physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of PVA-based electrospun wound dressings added with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) and different concentrations of Hypericum perforatum ethanolic extract (EEHP) were studied. Membrane characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, barrier properties, scanning electron microscopy, image analysis (diameter and pore size), as well as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Results showed that the PVA/HC/EEHP materials, fabricated under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity, generated fiber membranes with diameters between 140–390 nm, adequate porosity and pore size for cell growth (67–90% and 4–16 µm, respectively), and good barrier properties (0.005–0.032 g·m−2 s−1) to be used in the treatment of conditions on the skin, and was even better than some commercial products. Finally, they showed to have anti-inflammatory (>80%), and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. epiderm. Furthermore, higher crystalline structure was observed according to the EEHP concentration. In addition, this is the first report in which PVA/HC/EEHP membranes are successfully fabricated and characterized.
Preparation and Characterization of Hydrophilic Polymer Based Sustained-Release Matrix Tablets of a High Dose Hydrophobic Drug
Authors: Khan Niaz Ali , Khan Amjad , Ullah Rooh , Ullah Majeed , Alotaibi Amal , Ullah Riaz , Haider Adnan
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was the preparation and characterization of a sustained-release matrix tablet containing a high-dose hydrophobic drug and its comparison with marketed products. In the present study, HPMC was applied as the matrix-forming polymer for the sustained release of clarithromycin (500 mg). The compatibility of clarithromycin and excipients was studied using a binary mixture approach and compatible excipients were selected. Matrix tablets were prepared using the high-shear wet granulation technique. Tablets were compressed using oblong (19 mm), shallow concave punches, under a compression weight of 900 mg/tablet. The flow of granules was evaluated by determining their bulk density, tapped density, angle of repose, Hausner ratio, and Car’s index. Compressed tablets were tested for their physical parameters, mechanical characteristics, drug content, and in vitro drug release, as per United States Pharmacopeia (USP). Clarithromycin is a drug having poor water solubility and showed compatibility with all the excipients used in the formulation of polymeric matrix tablets. FTIR spectra of clarithromycin, before and after being subjected to the stress conditions, confirmed the compatibility of clarithromycin and other ingredients of the matrix tablets. All the formulations exhibited good rheological characteristics and all the parameters related to flow showed results in the acceptable range. Physically, matrix tablets were smooth and shiny, without any surface defects. Weight variation (±5%) and drug content of the tablets (95–102%) were within the pharmacopeial limits. HPMC successfully sustained the drug release for 24 h. It is concluded from the study that dissolution rate of clarithromycin can be sustained using hydrophilic polymer (HPMC) as a release-controlling agent.