Search Results (93)

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), especially iron oxide (Fe₃O₄), display distinctive superparamagnetic characteristics and elevated surface-area-to-volume ratios, facilitating improved physicochemical interactions with solutes and pollutants. These characteristics make MNPs strong contenders for use in water treatment applications. This research investigates the application of iron oxide MNPs synthesized via co-precipitation as innovative draw solutes in forward osmosis (FO) for treating synthetic produced water (SPW). The FO membrane underwent surface modification with sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA), a zwitterionic polymer, to increase hydrophilicity, minimize fouling, and elevate water flux. The SBMA functional groups aid in electrostatic repulsion of organic and inorganic contaminants, simultaneously encouraging robust hydration layers that improve water permeability. This adjustment is vital for sustaining consistent flux performance while functioning with MNP-based draw solutions. Material analysis through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) verified the MNPs’ thermal stability, consistent morphology, and modified surface chemistry. The FO experiments showed a distinct relationship between MNP concentration and osmotic efficiency. At an MNP dosage of 10 g/L, the peak real-time flux was observed at around 3.5–4.0 L/m²·h. After magnetic regeneration, 7.8 g of retrieved MNPs generated a steady flow of ~2.8 L/m²·h, whereas a subsequent regeneration (4.06 g) resulted in ~1.5 L/m²·h, demonstrating partial preservation of osmotic driving capability. Post-FO draw solutions, after filtration, exhibited total dissolved solids (TDS) measurements that varied from 2.5 mg/L (0 g/L MNP) to 227.1 mg/L (10 g/L MNP), further validating the effective dispersion and solute contribution of MNPs. The TDS of regenerated MNP solutions stayed similar to that of their fresh versions, indicating minimal loss of solute activity during the recycling process. The combined synergistic application of SBMA-modified FO membranes and regenerable MNP draw solutes showcases an effective and sustainable method for treating produced water, providing excellent water recovery, consistent operational stability, and opportunities for cyclic reuse. Full article

In this study, we designed an injectable skin-rejuvenating formulation based on polyethylene glycol–polycaprolactone–polyethylene glycol (PEG-PCL-PEG) copolymers to provide a synergistic combination of biocompatibility, antioxidative capacity, and regenerative potential. Through the systematic optimization of the precursor molar ratio and molecular weight, well-defined PEG-PCL-PEG copolymers were synthesized and structurally characterized using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. An optimized precipitation and drying protocol effectively reduced residual solvents, as confirmed by gas chromatography (GC). Idebenone was incorporated as an antioxidant to prevent skin aging, while hyaluronic acid (HA), L-arginine, and glycerin were included to promote collagen regeneration. In vitro assays demonstrated that idebenone-loaded samples exhibited prolonged intracellular antioxidant activity with low cytotoxicity. The collagen-promoting formulation, containing HA, glycerin, and L-arginine, enhanced the expression of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and type III collagen (COL3) while suppressing inflammatory genes, suggesting a favorable environment for extracellular matrix remodeling. In vivo evaluation corroborated these outcomes, showing angiogenesis, collagen reorganization, and progressive dermal thickness. Histological analysis further confirmed sustained matrix regeneration and tissue integration. These results highlight the potential of PEG-PCL-PEG-based injectables as a multifunctional platform for collagen regeneration, offering a promising strategy for both cosmetic and clinical applications. Full article

In this study, we assessed the ability of 2-Cl-MGV-1 (2-chlorophenyl quinazolin-4-yl, dimethyl carbamate), a ligand of the 18 kDa mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO), to mitigate brain damage in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury (TBI). TSPO is important for arresting the death of neurons and glia and counteracting microglial activation, and it provides anti-inflammatory activity, promotes regeneration (including neurons), and contributes to angiogenesis. We assessed the minimal dose of the TSPO ligand 2-Cl-MGV-1 that attenuates the magnitude of brain damage as well as the time window following TBI in which the treatment is effective. We found that 7.5 mg/kg of 2-Cl-MGV-1 can reduce the impact of the TBI as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We also found that 2-Cl-MGV-1 improved motor performance as observed in a treadmill test (80.9% fewer shocks needed and 40.7% more distance covered, both p < 0.05), and reduced anatomical brain damage (by 86.5%, p < 0.05), cell death (by 75.0%, p < 0.001), and microglial inflammatory response (by 50.2%, p < 0.01). The treatment also increased expression of neuronal markers NeuN and β3-tubulin (30.0%, p < 0.01; 36.0%, p < 0.01, respectively). The time window in which we found the treatment to be effective was 3–11 h after TBI. Our study suggests that agents active at the TSPO can significantly attenuate the outcome of TBI, including in the structural, cellular, and neuro-behavioral dimensions. The mechanisms involved in the attenuation of brain damage following TBI may be related to a decrease in cell death and to anti-inflammatory activity. TSPO seems to be a novel target for the development of agents aimed at the suppression of neurodegenerative processes. Full article

Hydrogel particles are essential in biological applications because of their distinctive capacity to retain water and encapsulate active molecules within their three-dimensional structure. Typical particle sizes range from nanometers (10–500 nm) to micrometers (1–500 µm), depending on the specific application and method of preparation. These characteristics render them optimal carriers for the administration of active compounds, facilitating the regulated and prolonged release of pharmaceuticals, including anticancer agents, antibiotics, and therapeutic proteins. Hydrogel particles can exhibit various morphologies, including spherical, rod-shaped, disk-shaped, and core–shell structures. Each shape offers distinct advantages, such as improved circulation time, targeted drug delivery, or enhanced cellular uptake. Additionally, hydrogel particles can be engineered to respond to various stimuli, such as temperature, pH, light, magnetic fields, and biochemical signals. Furthermore, their biocompatibility and capacity to acclimate to many biological conditions make them appropriate for sophisticated applications, including gene treatments, tissue regeneration, and cell therapies. Microfluidics has transformed the creation of hydrogel particles, providing precise control over their dimensions, morphology, and stability. This technique facilitates reproducible and highly efficient production, reducing reagent waste and optimizing drug encapsulation. The integration of microfluidics with hydrogels provides opportunities for the advancement of creative and effective solutions in contemporary medicine. Full article

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical used primarily in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. BPA is considered an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) because it interferes with hormonal systems. Over the decades, several techniques have been proposed for BPA removal in wastewaters. This study discusses recent advancements and progress of effective techniques for BPA removal, including membrane, adsorption, advanced oxidation process (AOPs), and biodegradation. The mechanisms of BPA adsorption on modified adsorbents include pore-filling, hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. Among the various agricultural waste adsorbents, Argan nut shell-microporous carbon (ANS@H20–120) exhibited the highest efficiency in removing BPA. Furthermore, the performance of magnetic treatment for activated carbon (AC) regeneration is introduced. According to the present study, researchers should prioritize agricultural waste-based adsorbents such as ACs, highly microporous carbons, nanoparticles, and polymers for the removal of BPA. In particular, the combination of adsorption and AOPs (advanced oxidations) is regarded as an efficient method for BPA removal. A series of relevant studies should be conducted at laboratory, pilot, and industrial scales for optimizing the application of agricultural waste-based AC to reduce BPA or other refractory pollutants from an aqueous environment. Full article

Graphite-phase carbon nitride (CN) has the advantages of high stability, non-toxicity, and harmlessness in degrading antibiotic pollutants in water. How to achieve the reduction of its electron-hole complexation efficiency as well as the improvement of its recyclability, while at the same time ensuring these advantages, is the focus of this paper. In this study, modified magnetic particles selected from coal gasification slag were used as carriers, which were compounded with CN and then subjected to a simple roasting process to obtain composite magnetic photocatalysts (MCN) with different ratios. The introduction of porous magnetic carriers increased the specific surface area of MCN, provided more active sites, and effectively improved the migration ability and redox capacity of CN carriers. Among them, 50% MCN showed excellent photodegradation performance, and the removal rate of tetracycline reached 82% within 60 min, which was much higher than that of CN. 50% MCN has a saturated magnetisation intensity of 1.55 emu·g⁻¹, which can be regenerated after recycling using a magnetic field, and the degradation efficiency of tetracycline is still more than 70% after five cycles, indicating that 50% MCN has good stability. This work demonstrates that magnetic gasification slag as a modified carrier can effectively promote the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs of graphite-phase carbon nitride, which provides a reference for the resourceful utilisation of coal gasification slag, as well as for the construction of g-C₃N₄-based photocatalysts with highly efficient and stable photodegradation activity. This work exemplifies how waste-derived materials can advance photocatalyst design, addressing both efficiency and sustainability challenges in water treatment. Full article

Ischemic stroke is a multifactorial disease that leads to brain tissue damage and severe neurological deficit. Transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) models are actively used for the molecular, genetic study of stroke. Previously, using high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), we revealed 3774 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the penumbra-associated region of the frontal cortex (FC) of rats 24 h after applying the tMCAO model. Here, we studied the gene expression pattern in the striatum that contained an ischemic focus. Striatum samples were obtained from the same rats from which we previously obtained FC samples. Therefore, we compared DEG profiles between two rat brain tissues 24 h after tMCAO. Tissues were selected based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological examination (HE) data. As a result, 4409 DEGs were identified 24 h after tMCAO in striatum. Among them, 2609 DEGs were overlapped in the striatum and FC, whereas more than one thousand DEGs were specific for each studied tissue. Furthermore, 54 DEGs exhibited opposite changes at the mRNA level in the two brain tissues after tMCAO. Thus, the spatial regulation of the ischemic process in the ipsilateral hemisphere of rat brain at the transcriptome level was revealed. We believe that the targeted adjustment of the genome responses identified can be the key for the induction of regeneration processes in brain cells after stroke. Full article

This study addresses environmental concerns by utilizing banana peel waste to develop innovative adsorbent materials for wastewater treatment, aligning with circular economy principles. Spherical beads were synthesized from sodium alginate mixed with various banana peel-based materials, including pure powder (PBP), activated carbon (AC), and magnetic activated carbon (MAC). These beads were evaluated for their efficiency in removing tetracycline (TC) and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) as model pollutants representing antibiotics and heavy metals, respectively. Characterization of the beads revealed functional groups and thermal stability conducive to effective adsorption. Adsorption trials demonstrated that MAC beads achieved the highest removal efficiencies, up to 92% for TC and 79% for Cr(VI). The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherms. Remarkably, the beads retained a significant adsorption capacity across reuse cycles, indicating their regenerative potential. Comparisons with other adsorbents highlight the competitive performance of these banana peel-based materials. The results emphasize the potential of banana peel-derived adsorbents as cost-effective, sustainable solutions for mitigating emerging pollutants in water systems, promoting waste valorization and environmental protection. The research demonstrates a novel approach to sequential adsorption without intermediate regeneration, showing that the beads can effectively remove both tetracycline and chromium (VI) in successive cycles. This finding is particularly significant because it reveals that the presence of previously adsorbed chromium actually enhanced the beads’ capacity for tetracycline removal in the second cycle, suggesting a synergistic effect that had not been previously reported in the literature. These innovations contribute meaningfully to both waste valorization and water treatment technologies, offering new insights into the development of multi-functional adsorbents from agricultural waste materials. Full article

The vascular system is primarily responsible for orchestrating the underlying healing processes to achieve tissue regeneration, thus the promotion of angiogenic events could be a useful strategy to repair injured tissues. Among several approaches to stimulate tissue regeneration, non-invasive devices are currently widely diffused. Complex Magnetic Fields (CMFs) are innovative pulsed multifrequency electromagnetic fields used for their promising results in clinical applications, such as diabetic foot treatment or edema resorption. Nevertheless, few papers are available demonstrating the biological mechanisms involved. In this paper, in order to understand CMFs’ capability to promote angiogenic events, Regenerative Tissue Program (RTP) was applied to an in vitro Endothelial Cells (ECs) model. ECs were stimulated with (I) 2 RTP consecutive cycles, (II) with an interval of 8 h (T0 + T8), or (III) 24 h (T0 + T24) from one cycle to another. Results demonstrate that (I) extracellular matrix degradation is promoted through matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 modulation, leading to an increased cell migratory capability; (II) CMFs support EC growth, activating Integrin β1-Erk-Cdk2 pathway and sustaining G1/S transition; (III) vessel morphogenesis is promoted when CMFs are applied. In conclusion, the promising clinical results are supported by in vitro analyses which evidence that main angiogenic events are stimulated by CMFs. Full article

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to devastating dysfunctions and complications, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life and aggravating the burden of disease. Since the main pathological mechanism of SCI is the disruption of neuronal circuits, the primary therapeutic strategy for SCI involves reconstructing and activating circuits to restore neural signal transmission. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a noninvasive brain stimulation technique, can modulate the function or state of the nervous system by pulsed magnetic fields. Here, we discuss the basic principles and potential mechanisms of rTMS for treating SCI, including promoting the reconstruction of damaged circuits in the spinal cord, activating reorganization of the cerebral cortex and circuits, modulating the balance of inputs to motoneurons, improving the microenvironment and intrinsic regeneration ability in SCI. Based on these mechanisms, we provide an overview of the therapeutic effects of rTMS in SCI patients with motor dysfunction, spasticity and neuropathic pain. We also discuss the challenges and prospectives of rTMS, especially the potential of combination therapy of rTMS and neural progenitor cell transplantation, and the synergistic effects on promoting regeneration, relay formation and functional connectivity. This review is expected to offer a relatively comprehensive understanding and new perspectives of rTMS for SCI treatment. Full article

To further enhance the safety and energy efficiency of the Fe₃O₄ preparation experiment, we proposed a strategy for synthesizing monodisperse Fe₃O₄ microspheres through a one-step solvothermal process. In this environmentally friendly synthesis method, stable FeCl₃∙6H₂O was utilized as the sole raw material, while ethylene glycol, characterized by its high boiling point and favorable safety profile, served as the solvent. Additionally, inexpensive and readily available urea was selected to function either as a mineralizer or surfactant. Through this one-step solvothermal reaction, the target product of Fe₃O₄ could be obtained without subsequent calcination under reducing or inert atmospheres, thereby enhancing experimental safety and promoting energy conservation. By controlling the amount of urea added, it became feasible to produce monodisperse magnetic Fe₃O₄ microspheres characterized by complete crystallinity and high yield. Utilizing the as-synthesized Fe₃O₄ as a catalyst, we investigated its photocatalytic activity against xylenol orange organic dyes along with its regeneration characteristics. When 40 mmol of urea was incorporated into the reaction mixture, the resulting Fe₃O₄ sample exhibited optimal photocatalytic performance; a 20 mg/L xylenol orange solution became colorless and transparent after just 1.5 h of UV light irradiation. Furthermore, during five consecutive regeneration cycles, its catalytic activity could be restored to its initial level. Importantly, Fe₃O₄ demonstrated excellent magnetic sensitivity properties that facilitated rapid targeted separation under an external magnetic field, providing convenience for recovery and collection purposes. Full article

For several decades, there has been growing interest in the influence of low-frequency magnetic fields (LFMFs) and red LED light on the healing process. Keratinocytes are cells that play a significant role in the process of wound healing and tissue regeneration. A human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) was exposed to an LFMF with low induction (180–195 Hz; 60 µT, magnetostimulation), red LED light (630 nm; 300 mW, LED therapy), and their combined action (magneto-LED therapy) in in vitro culture conditions. On day 4 and 8 of the experiment, the following parameters were determined: adhesion/proliferation, adenylate kinase (AK), nitric oxide (NO), cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, TNF-α), metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), and collagen IV. It was shown that magnetostimulation caused an increase in keratinocyte adhesion/proliferation and IL-8 secretion and a decrease in IL-12 secretion. The LED therapy resulted in a transient increase in the secretion of NO and cytokines IL-1, IL-12, and IL-6 in keratinocytes. The use of magneto-LED therapy resulted in an increase in keratinocyte adhesion/proliferation, the secretion of cytokines IL-6 and IL-8, and NO with a simultaneous decrease in MMP-9 secretion. The results of our studies showed that the action of an LFMF with low-induction and LED light on keratinocytes can modulate the biological activity of keratinocytes towards improving the skin healing process. Full article

Stimuli-responsive nanocomposite gels combine the unique properties of hydrogels with those of nanoparticles, thus avoiding the suboptimal results of single components and creating versatile, multi-functional platforms for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. These hybrid materials are engineered to respond to various internal and external stimuli, such as temperature, pH, light, magnetic fields, and enzymatic activity, allowing precise control over drug release, tissue regeneration, and biosensing. Their responsiveness to environmental cues permits personalized medicine approaches, providing dynamic control over therapeutic interventions and real-time diagnostic capabilities. This review explores recent advances in stimuli-responsive hybrid gels’ synthesis and application, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, and diagnostics. Overall, these platforms have significant clinical potential, and future research is expected to lead to unique solutions to address unmet medical needs. Full article

Multifunctional hydrogel dressings remain highly sought after for the promotion of skin wound regeneration. In the present study, multifunctional CHS-DA/HACC (CH) hydrogels with an interpenetrated network were constructed using hydroxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride modified chitosan (HACC) and dopamine-modified chondroitin sulfate (CHS-DA), using genipin as crosslinker. The synthesis of HACC and CHS-DA was effectively confirmed using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis and ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy. The prepared CH hydrogels exhibited a network of interconnected pores within the microstructure. Furthermore, rheological testing demonstrated that CH hydrogels exhibited strong mechanical properties, stability, and injectability. Further characterization investigations showed that the CH hydrogels showed favorable self-healing and self-adhesion properties. It was also shown that increasing HACC concentration ratio was positively correlated with the antibacterial activity of CH hydrogels, as evidenced by their resistance to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) tests, fluorescent images, and a cell scratch assay demonstrated that CH hydrogels had good biocompatibility and cell migration ability. The multifunctional interpenetrated network hydrogels were shown to have good antibacterial properties, antioxidant properties, stable storage modulus and loss modulus, injectable properties, self-healing properties, and biocompatibility, highlighting their potential as wound dressings in wound healing applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the development of 3D chitosan-x-cobalt ferrite scaffolds (x = 5, 7.5, and 10 wt%) with interconnected porosity for potential biomedical applications. The objective was to evaluate the effects of magnetic particle incorporation on the scaffolds’ structural, mechanical, magnetic, and biological properties, specifically focusing on their biocompatibility and antimicrobial performance. Methods: Scaffolds were synthesized using freeze-drying, while cobalt ferrite nanoparticles were produced via a pilot-scale combustion reaction. The scaffolds were characterized for their physical and chemical properties, including porosity, swelling, and mechanical strength. Hydrophilicity was assessed through contact angle measurements. Antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated using time kill kinetics and agar diffusion assays, and biocompatibility was confirmed through cytotoxicity tests. Results: The incorporation of cobalt ferrite increased magnetic responsiveness, altered porosity profiles, and influenced swelling, biodegradation, and compressive strength, with a maximum value of 87 kPa at 7.5 wt% ferrite content. The scaffolds maintained non-toxicity and demonstrated bactericidal activity. The optimal concentration for achieving a balance between structural integrity and biological performance was found at 7.5 wt% cobalt ferrite. Conclusions: These findings suggest that magnetic chitosan-cobalt ferrite scaffolds possess significant potential for use in biomedical applications, including tissue regeneration and advanced healing therapies. The incorporation of magnetic properties enhances both the structural and biological functionalities, presenting promising opportunities for innovative therapeutic approaches in reconstructive procedures. Full article