Search Results (1,797)

Objectives: Skin wound repair has long remained a crucial clinical challenge, in response to which, in this study, we propose a novel injectable hydrogel delivery system. In particular, we focus on the efficient delivery of bioactive factors and modulation of the local wound microenvironment. Methods: The hydrogel integrates selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), which serve as key therapeutic components in the proposed system, and are additionally co-integrated with oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA) and heparin-grafted carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS-g-Hep) to construct a multifunctional SeNPs/bFGF-loaded CMCS-g-Hep/OHA hydrogel network. Accordingly, this proposed hydrogel was systematically evaluated using chemical synthesis, physicochemical characterization, in vitro cellular assays, and C57BL6J mice studies, which we used to jointly assess the biocompatibility and wound-healing efficacy of the proposed system. Results: The results demonstrated that the hydrogel enabled sustained bFGF release and was capable of significantly enhancing fibroblast proliferation, migration, and collagen deposition. In a mouse skin defect model, treatment with the loaded hydrogel markedly accelerated wound closure. Additionally, we conducted mechanistic investigations to further illustrate that the hydrogel can modulate the wound microenvironment by regulating inflammatory and chemotactic signaling pathways. Conclusions: These findings suggest a promising therapeutic pathway for chronic wound repair. Full article

This research examines the hydrothermal corrosion behaviour of ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) under highly alkaline conditions (pH > 11.5) in the framework of a deep geological repository for high-level radioactive waste (HLW). The study focuses on the degradation of alumina powder and fibres, key constituents of an oxide/oxide CMC material. Accelerated ageing experiments were conducted in a highly alkaline aqueous environment (pH > 11.5, T = 70 °C for 220 days and T = 150 °C for 30 days). The research used a cross-disciplinary approach integrating thermodynamic calculations and physicochemical analyses to determine the degradation mechanisms of alumina powder and fibres induced by contact with the aqueous ageing solution. Characterisation of the aged alumina powders and fibres revealed the presence of unaltered alumina, hydrated alumina, amorphous phases, and calcium carbonate precipitates from the aqueous solution. Thermodynamic calculations indicate (1) the hydrolysis of alumina to diaspore and (2) the formation of an aluminosilicate phase and calcium carbonate. However, experimental results reveal kinetic limitations, such as the preferential formation of boehmite over diaspore, and morphology-dependent degradation pathways (protective-layer formation on fibres and partial dissolution of powders). Full article

This study employed sodium acetate trihydrate as the phase-change matrix and used a binary nucleating agent composed of disodium hydrogen phosphate dodecahydrate (DHPD) and borax (BX) to suppress supercooling. Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was used as a thickener to mitigate phase separation, and expanded graphite (EG) was introduced as a supporting matrix to enhance thermal conductivity. The composite phase-change material was prepared via melt blending. By means of thermal storage and release performance tests, differential scanning calorimetry and thermal conductivity tests, the effects of the binary nucleating agent ratio, CMC content and EG addition amount on phase-change thermal storage performance, supercooling degree, phase stability and thermal conductivity of the system were systematically investigated. The results indicated that the addition of 3.0 wt% DHPD and 2.0 wt% BX as the binary nucleating agent reduced the supercooling temperature from 20.52 °C to 1.92 °C; 1 wt% CMC effectively suppressed phase separation during thermal cycling; and the incorporation of 3.0 wt% EG increased the thermal conductivity of the composite to 2.92 times that of the pure hydrated salt. Full article

Physiologically produced circulating β-amyloid (Aβ) exerts critical physiological functions. Although Aβ is a key player in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), it may initially be beneficial at the onset of infection. As an evolutionary conserved antimicrobial peptide (AMP), Aβ contributes to innate immune defense against pathogens. Host defense peptides such as Aβ and human cathelicidin (LL-37) not only kill pathogens through their antimicrobial activity but also exhibit high affinity for bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and membrane receptors. LL-37, which is upregulated in the brain, binds to Aβ, modulating its aggregation; Aβ and LL-37 are protective under physiological conditions, but during chronic infection or dysregulation, their interaction becomes toxic and contributes to AD pathology. Similarly to Aβ, LL-37 can induce neuroinflammation by stimulating human microglia to release inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6. Neuroinflammation is essential for protecting the brain from pathogens—when prolonged, it drives pathological processes underlying AD, Parkinson’s disease (PD), and other neurodegenerative disorders. Full article

The paper details the implementation and experimental validation of an IEC 61850-9-2 sampled value (SV)-based distance protection scheme for a 132 kV transmission line. Instead of conventional analog interfaces, we propose a scheme that uses a digital process bus to stream time-synchronized voltage and current measurements from instrument transformers to protection relays. A laboratory-scale setup was developed, in which an SEL 401 merging unit samples currents and voltages injected by an OMICRON CMC 356 and publishes them as SV messages to an SEL 421 distance relay. This work demonstrates how IEC 61850-9-2 can be practically applied to modernize transmission line protection and enhance overall grid reliability and resilience. Full article

The valorization of lignocellulosic residues into bioactive and biodegradable materials offers a sustainable route for functional food packaging. In this study, hazelnut shells were exploited through an integrated process enabling the integrated recovery of polyphenols and cellulose. Polyphenols were extracted via hot water, liquid–liquid partitioning, and column chromatography, yielding a purified bioactive fraction. The residual biomass after polyphenol recovery was used for cellulose extraction (approximately 23% w/w) and converted into carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with a degree of substitution (DS) of 0.77. Active CMC films incorporating polyphenolic extracts exhibited improved mechanical performance, reaching tensile strengths of about 78 MPa and elongation at break values above 20%, while reducing water solubility to approximately 31%. The addition of carnauba wax further enhanced water resistance while modulating flexibility and stiffness. Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses confirmed the conversion of crystalline cellulose into amorphous CMC and the successful incorporation of additives within the polymer matrix. The resulting films showed tunable mechanical, optical, and barrier properties, along with UV-blocking and antioxidant activity. These findings demonstrate that hazelnut shell-derived CMC films enriched with polyphenols and carnauba wax represent promising candidates for a sustainable platform for active food packaging applications, supporting a circular waste-to-value approach. Full article

Background: Conventional and refractory wounds frequently remain in a prolonged inflammatory phase associated with excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and disruption of endogenous electrical cues. Methods: A multifunctional nanocomposite hydrogel was fabricated via an amidation condensation reaction, utilizing 3-amino-4-methoxybenzoic acid (AMB)-modified carboxymethyl chitosan (PAMB-CMCS) and decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) as macromolecular networks, integrated with Astragaloside IV-Loaded Polydopamine/Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (AS@PDA/ZIF-8) nanoparticles. Results: The hydrogel provided a biomechanically supportive scaffold with compressive strength of 27.24 ± 1.9 kPa and breaking strength of 28.2 ± 2.8 kPa and exhibited electrical conductivity of 29.84 mS/cm, ROS-scavenging activity, and near-infrared (NIR)-responsive photothermal behavior reaching 62.55 °C. The integrated PDA@ZIF-8 nanoplatform further contributed to antibacterial performance and localized AS release, thereby improving the wound microenvironment and accelerating full-thickness cutaneous defect repair. Conclusions: This macromolecule-based composite hydrogel offers a promising therapeutic strategy for complex wound management. Full article

This study presents the development and comprehensive characterization of innovative formulations for facial toners based on micellar water–glycol systems. The study evaluated aqueous solutions of three natural glycols—1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butylene glycol, and 1,2-pentylene glycol—both as extraction agents and as functional ingredients in facial toner formulations. The physicochemical properties (viscosity, color, contact angle) and aggregation behavior (CMC, particle size) were analyzed to determine the effect of the extraction medium on the efficiency of plant-derived metabolite extraction. Grapevine buds, obtained from a byproduct of grape cultivation, were used as the plant material. The extracts obtained were evaluated in terms of active ingredient content and antioxidant potential using LC-MS/MS and UV-VIS techniques, respectively. The results showed that pentylene glycol-based micellar systems exhibited the lowest CMC value and the most favorable wetting properties, leading to the highest phenolic content and antioxidant activity in the extracts. Facial toners containing these extracts were subjected to functional and application tests, assessing, among other things, viscosity, wetting angle, and irritation potential. The study results provide new insights into the relationship between surfactant aggregation, glycol-based media, and cosmetic formulation design, offering a balanced and effective strategy for developing multifunctional skin care products. Full article

The increasing discharge of cobalt-containing effluents from metallurgical, electroplating, and battery-related industries necessitates the development of efficient and stable separation technologies. In this study, a sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-assisted micellar-enhanced ultrafiltration (MEUF) process was systematically evaluated for the removal of Co²⁺ from aqueous solutions using a flat-sheet polyethersulfone (PES) membrane operated under crossflow conditions. The effects of surfactant concentration, initial solution pH, cobalt concentration, background electrolyte, and extended filtration time were examined to assess process performance and operational stability. Direct ultrafiltration of 50 mg L⁻¹ Co²⁺ without surfactant resulted in limited rejection (~18%). The introduction of SDS markedly improved removal efficiency, achieving >99% rejection at and above 1 critical micelle concentration (CMC). An SDS dosage of 1 CMC provided an optimal balance between permeate flux (~155 L m⁻² h⁻¹) and cobalt removal (>99%). The system maintained high rejection efficiency across a pH range of 3–9, demonstrating robust cobalt–micelle interactions. Increasing the initial cobalt concentration from 10 to 50 mg L⁻¹ caused a moderate decline in flux but did not significantly affect rejection efficiency. In contrast, elevated ionic strength due to NaNO₃ addition reduced both flux and cobalt removal, highlighting the influence of competing ions on micelle-mediated separation. Long-term continuous operation for 40 h showed stable permeate flux and sustained cobalt rejection above 99%, indicating minimal fouling. FTIR and SEM–EDS analyses confirmed membrane chemical stability and negligible cobalt deposition. These findings demonstrate that SDS-based MEUF is an effective and operationally stable approach for cobalt removal from contaminated water systems. Full article

Background: Increasing antifungal resistance, poor mucosal retention, and systemic side effects limit the effectiveness of currently available drugs. This study explores a novel topical nanotherapeutic approach for the targeted treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), employing green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from Ascophyllum nodosum (AN) and incorporating ibrexafungerp citrate (IBC) into a liposomal formulation. Methods: AgNPs were biosynthesized using AN extract and characterized. Liposomes were prepared by thin-film hydration, and optimised using Central Composite design and characterized and optimized. Optimised liposomes, co-loaded with IBC and AN-AgNPs, were incorporated into a Carbopol-CMC-based topical gel. Results: FTIR shifts in the –OH (3332.31 cm⁻¹) and carbonyl (1636.87 cm⁻¹) bands with reduced intensity confirmed their involvement in Ag⁺ reduction and nanoparticle surface coordination, while the persistence of the 1015 cm⁻¹ band indicated the role of polysaccharides in capping and stabilizing the AN-AgNP. Characterization of the optimized liposomes (IBCL-11) revealed a particle size of 127.2 nm, a zeta potential of −43.8 mV, and a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.35. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) confirmed the presence of intact, spherical vesicles, while Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) validated the molecular dispersion and amorphous characteristics of the films. In vitro evaluations of the IBC liposomal gel demonstrated a sustained drug release of 72.6% over 24 h, alongside enhanced drug penetration across all skin layers. Antifungal assays highlighted the formulation’s potent efficacy, yielding Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) values below 1 µg/mL. Furthermore, the treatments exhibited strong anti-biofilm properties; at MIC and MBC levels, AN-AgNPs achieved biofilm reductions of 45.27 ± 3.16% and 27.62 ± 2.13%, respectively, whereas IBCL-11 produced reductions of 34.25 ± 2.43% and 16.28 ± 1.72%. Conclusion: Ultimately, this study successfully developed an eco-friendly liposomal formulation co-loaded with AN-AgNPs and IBC, offering a promising and targeted therapeutic approach for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Full article

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are commonly used to reinforce and functionalize cement matrices, thereby imparting new properties. To facilitate the introduction of CNTs into inorganic matrices such as cement, the use of a master batch is advantageous. In this approach, the CNTs are premixed with a carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) to form this master batch, which enables homogeneous dispersion and simplifies the mixing of all components (cement, CNTs, CMC, and water). The system, a CNT–CMC–cement mixture, is modeled here by using a molecular dynamics simulation. Three models were constructed for comparative analysis: pristine tobermorite 11Å (T11) for hydrated cement paste, T11 with embedded CNT (T11 + CNT), and T11 with both CNT and CMC (T11 + CNT + CMC). All models were first equilibrated to obtain stable and low-energy configurations. Subsequently, three types of loading conditions were applied to investigate mechanical and physical properties: tension, compression, and heating. Under mechanical loading, both the stress–strain response and the resulting piezoelectric effect were analyzed. Under thermal loading, the focus was on thermally induced polarization. The simulation was used to elucidate the role of CNTs and polymer modification (CMC) at the atomistic scale. Full article

Robotic assistive devices, such as exoskeletons, are increasingly employed in walking rehabilitation. Therefore, the measurement of both movement kinematics and cognitive workload is important to understand this human–robot interaction in real-world contexts. To address this need this study presents the validation of a framework integrating inertial motion capture (Xsens) and eye-tracking sensor (Pupil Neon) within a Mixed Reality (Meta Quest 3) architecture. We developed an overground dual-task paradigm in which holographic numbers appear in the user’s peripheral vision. This setup actively stimulates visuospatial attention while quantifying kinematic and cognitive output. To validate the framework, the protocol has been tested on 30 healthy subjects across repeated exoskeleton training sessions. Statistical analyses revealed that the Coefficient of Multiple Correlation (CMC) and Spectral Arc Length (SPARC), calculated on the shank angular velocity, together with the Step Length Variability, exhibited significant time effects (p < 0.01), mapping the transition toward automated gait. Concurrently, pupillometric data demonstrated a measurable reduction in neurocognitive demand; specifically, the Task-Evoked Pupillary Response (TEPR) decreased significantly across progressive training sessions (p < 0.05). With this work, we validated a measurement protocol that aims to provide a novel methodology for objectively evaluating motor and cognitive adaptation in wearable assistive devices. Full article

Background/Objectives: Improved survival rates have led to an increase in the number of children with medical complexity (CMC) receiving home-based care. However, there is a lack of clarity regarding the relationships among collaborative environments, environmental modifications, and positive family health among families of CMC in daily living settings. This study aimed to examine these relationships and identify their associated factors. Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of data derived from a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to the families of CMC with experience in organizing the care environment. Ninety responses were included in the study, and regression analyses were performed using complete cases (n = 41–63). Results: Family-led environmental modifications (β = 0.670, p < 0.001) and physical environmental modifications (β = 0.679, p = 0.015) were positively associated with the collaborative environment, whereas professional-facilitated family-led environmental modifications were negatively associated with the collaborative environment (β = −0.775, p = 0.009). Regarding positive health in families, family-led environmental modifications (β = 0.487, p = 0.018), environmental modifications for care improvement (β = 0.597, p = 0.031), pre-modification family well-being (β = 0.464, p < 0.001), and the presence of someone to consult (β = 0.330, p = 0.011) were significantly associated with positive health in families. Because this study employed a cross-sectional design, causal relationships cannot be inferred. Conclusions: Collaborative environments in daily living settings may be associated with family involvement, physical environmental conditions, and professional engagement. Healthcare professionals may support family autonomy and participation in environmental modification processes. Full article

The rapid development of cold chain logistics has generated a strong demand for high-performance phase change materials (PCMs). In this study, a composite PCM (CPCM) applicable to 5 °C cold chain logistics, integrated with PVA/CMC-Na hydrogel to maintain form stability, is developed. N-Tetradecane and water are employed as the primary cold storage media in the composite. Span 80, Tween 80 and borax are introduced into the composite as homogenizing agents and supercooling depressant, respectively. The main preparation steps of the CPCM include aqueous phase preparation, emulsifier compounding, oil-phase preparation, blending, homogenization, and molding, in sequence. Experimental results demonstrate that the CPCM exhibits a phase transition temperature of 0–5 °C, a latent heat of 236.2 J/g, a supercooling degree of no more than 0.5 °C, and a volume expansion ratio of 3%. Therefore, the CPCM is able to satisfy the cold storage demand for cold chain transportation with a target temperature of approximately 5 °C, and can serve as a superior-performance alternative to the PCMs currently used for similar applications in the market. Full article

Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) are widely used in aerospace due to the advantages such as high-temperature resistance and lightweight properties. Detecting defects within these materials is crucial for ensuring the safety of corresponding structures. In this paper, a finite element model of CMC model for layered structures is established for the ultrasonic non-destructive testing. Based on the computed tomography (CT) scan images and porosity of the material, a randomly distributed pore model is constructed to investigate the effect of pores on the ultrasonic signals. Random pores are also introduced in the simulation to ensure that the model corresponds as closely as possible to reality. Moreover, the feasibility of utilizing air-coupled ultrasonic excitation to generate specific frequency Lamb waves is verified. The effect of pore presence on the signal propagation is analyzed, and the effects of layered structures at different positions and lengths on the signal propagation are investigated. The results demonstrate that the Lamb waves with a specified frequency can be excited using the method described in this paper, and the presence of pores and delamination defects can affect the propagation of the Lamb wave in CMC, in which the signal attenuation can reach up to 7.6 dB. Full article