Search Results (2,276)

Epoxy resin (E-51) exhibits excellent adhesion and is widely used in the preparation of functional composite coatings. However, its smooth surface lacking micro/nano composite structures limits its self-cleaning capability and optical properties. Direct incorporation of organic silicone or inorganic fillers often faces severe phase separation and filler agglomeration issues, resulting in defects in coating durability and weather resistance. To address these challenges, this study developed a synergistic modification strategy integrating surface energy modulation with the architectural design of micro/nano-structures. Amino-terminated PDMS undergoes ring-opening addition reactions with epoxy groups in the epoxy resin, while functionalized barium sulfate nanoparticles modified with dual silane coupling agents are incorporated to enhance optical properties. This synergistic approach not only resolved interfacial compatibility but also endowed the PDMS@EP-BaSO₄ coating with outstanding comprehensive properties; the water contact angle increased to 123.5°, demonstrating an easy-to-clean benefit. Visible light reflectance reached 95%, and emissivity rose to 90%. Furthermore, when applied to metal surfaces, the coating exhibited excellent stability against acid–alkali–salt corrosion, extreme temperatures, and ultrasonic agitation. This work provided a novel approach for developing protective coatings that integrated high reflectance, high emissivity, and long-term anti-soiling properties. Full article

Zn-Fe-Cr coatings were successfully deposited on sintered Nd-Fe-B matrix through the addition of the complexing agent etidronic acid (HEDP) to the plating solution; the electrodeposited process of the metal elements and the corrosion behavior of the coatings were also investigated. Through cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests, it was observed that the reduction potential difference between the metal elements was reduced by the addition of HEDP, which contributed to a more feasible electrodeposited process. The surface of Zn-Fe-Cr coating was covered by a chromate conversion film, and its microstructure was identified as the solid solution of Fe and Cr in Zn matrix. Compared with Zn and Zn-Fe coatings, the corrosion current density (J_corr) of Zn-Fe-Cr coating was decreased to 0.28 × 10⁻⁶ A·cm⁻², and the corrosion potential (E_corr) was increased to −1.01 V. Compared with the Zn and Zn-Fe coatings, the corrosion rate of the Zn-Fe-Cr coating has decreased by 90% and 98%, respectively. The corrosion resistance of coatings was further analyzed by neutral salt spray tests (NSS), and the analysis results showed that a composite oxide layer, composed of ZnO and Cr₂O₃, was formed in the corroded area of Zn-Fe-Cr coating during the corrosion process, which is capable of effectively inhibiting the expansion of the corrosion area. This research provides a promising strategy for ensuring the long-term service integrity of sintered Nd-Fe-B materials in marine environments. Full article

Gadolinium nanoparticles (GdNPs) have gained increasing attention as multifunctional metal-based nanoplatforms that extend far beyond their traditional use as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. Their specific magnetic properties, tunable physicochemical features, and tunable biocompatibilities with biocompatible coatings give them great potential as drug delivery and theranostic applications. They offer greater stability, lower systemic toxicity, and more surface modification options compared to molecular gadolinium chelates. The functionalized GdNPs not only show excellent properties as drug carriers for their specific indications but also serve as agents in various imaging modalities with superior therapeutic efficacy by means of radio sensitization and magnetically assisted delivery. Note too that GdNP-based formulations have demonstrated synergistic activity when administered with chemotherapeutic agents such as doxorubicin. GdNPs have demonstrated promising preclinical outcomes, and their clinical translation remains restricted due to a number of scale-up constraints, long-term safety challenges, pharmacokinetics, and regulatory problems. This review provides information on the use of GdNPs, their key physicochemical and magnetic properties, ligand engineering for targeted delivery, and biological mechanisms of their theranostic performance. Full article

In this study, we developed an eco-friendly intumescent flame-retardant coating for polyester (PET) fabrics. The coating was formulated with aluminum diethylphosphinate-based flame retardant (P-FR), trisilanol isobutyl-POSS (Si-FR), sericin (SC), and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), using citric acid (CA) as a chemical crosslinker. The coatings were applied to alkaline-treated PET fabrics via the knife-coating technique, followed by drying and curing. P-FR acted as the primary flame-retardant component, while SC and Si-FR served as N/Si synergistic agents that enhanced the performance of P-FR, as demonstrated by an improvement in the UL 94 rating from V-1 to V-0. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that SC and Si-FR improved the oxidative stability of the char. Flame-retardant finishing increased the limiting oxygen index (LOI) from 21.1% for untreated fabric to 31.7% for treated fabric, while tensile strength increased and elongation at break decreased. Notably, after 50 washing cycles, the treated fabrics retained self-extinguishing behavior, although the UL 94 classification decreased to V-2. Overall, this halogen-free coating system effectively enhanced the flame retardancy of PET fabrics while using environmentally friendly components, indicating its potential for sustainable flame-retardant textile applications. Full article

Optical plastics possess excellent optical and mechanical properties but are limited by poor surface hardness and scratch resistance. Herein, UV-curable organic–inorganic hybrid coatings were developed to enhance scratch resistance while maintaining high optical transparency. Nano-silica sols were prepared via tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) hydrolysis and surface modified with silane coupling agents (KH-560, KH-570, and KH-550) to improve their dispersion and interfacial reactivity in a polyurethane acrylate (PUA) matrix. The modified nano-silica was incorporated into a UV-curable PUA system to fabricate transparent composite coatings. The influences of nano-silica type and loading on hardness, flexibility, wettability, scratch resistance, and UV–visible transmittance were systematically evaluated. Modified nano-silica markedly improved pendulum hardness and scratch resistance, with hardness increasing by nearly 50%, while flexibility remained nearly unchanged. Although hydrophobicity and optical transmittance slightly decreased with increasing nano-silica content, the transmittance remained above 90% at 4 wt% loading. For KH-550 modified systems, strict pH control (pH 8.0) and ammonia removal were critical for sol stability. This work offers a feasible approach for fabricating scratch-resistant, transparent UV-curable coatings for optical plastics. Full article

The engineering of theranostic nanoparticles, which integrate diagnostics and therapy in a single administration, enables targeted drug delivery and disease visualization. In cancer theranostics, gadolinium-based nanoparticles are valuable tools for noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and provide high-resolution images of the tumor. When MRI is combined with other imaging modalities, complementary therapeutic information is obtained for more accurate identification of tumor characteristics and precise guidance of anticancer drug delivery. Among the many possible modalities combined with MRI, photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a candidate that enables sensitive in vivo detection of tumors. We have already succeeded in synthesizing biocompatible gelatin-coated gadolinium oxide nanoparticles with a controlled size by adjusting the timing of gelatin addition, which were a highly efficient contrast agent for MR and PA dual imaging. Herein, we conjugated a clinically used anticancer drug (doxorubicin, DOX) to size-defined and biocompatible gadolinium oxide nanoparticles which are novel theranostic probes. Succinylated gelatin enabled the electrostatic conjugation of DOX with gadolinium oxide nanoparticles, and the release of DOX was controlled through the enzymatic degradation of gelatin by matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 (MMP-2 and MMP-9), which are highly expressed in cancer cells. The released DOX efficiently inhibited the growth of HeLa cells in vitro and the growth of the inoculated tumor tissues in vivo. The dual-modality MRI and PAI capabilities provide anatomical information that assists in the localization and targeting of theranostic probes. Full article

This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the effects of magnetite nanoparticle (MNP) shape on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) xenograft tissues. T₂-weighted MRI scans using spherical shaped MNPs as contrast agents are compared to MRI scans done with nanorod-shaped MNPs as contrast agents. The MNPs were first coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and subsequently conjugated to luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) to specifically target LHRH receptors, which are present at high levels on the surfaces of xenograft TNBC cells/tissues. After 3 weeks of tumor growth in nude immunocompromised mice, LHRH-conjugated (functionalized) and unconjugated (non-functionalized) MNPs were injected into the immunocompromised mice. Four types of MNPs were used: non-functionalized nanorod-shaped MNPs (BMNR); LHRH-conjugated nanorod-shaped MNPs (LCMNR); non-functionalized spherical-shaped MNPs (BSSMNP); and LHRH-conjugated spherical-shaped MNPs (LCSSMNP). T₂-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were obtained from the mice before the injection of the MNPs and two hours after the injection of the MNPs. The results show that using nanorod-shaped LHRH-conjugate MNPs as contrast agents yielded higher-resolution T₂-weighted MRI scans of TNBC tumors compared to those from spherical-shaped MNPs. The implications of the results are discussed in relation to potential applications of functionalized MNPs in MRI for TNBC diagnosis. Full article

Organic solvents are known to affect the nervous system, but neurotoxicity testing is not routinely required for industrial chemicals under current European regulations. Glycol ethers are widely used in consumer and industrial products. They can cross skin and lung barriers, distribute systemically, and penetrate the blood–brain barrier due to their physicochemical properties, while their neurotoxic potential remains poorly characterized. P-series glycol ethers now dominate the European market, making exposure assessment critical for public health. We compiled and integrated data from five authoritative sources to build an inventory of glycol ethers currently used in Europe and performed a structured descriptive analysis of high-volume propylene glycol ether compounds. Six high-volume compounds (≥1000 t/year) were selected for analysis. Production volumes, Swiss product registrations, occupational exposure limits, and product categories were compiled. Propylene glycol methyl ether (PGME) showed the highest tonnage (100,000–1,000,000 t/year) and was present in 9497 registered products, followed by propylene glycol ethyl ether (PGEE) (10,000–100,000 t/year; 1333 products). Paints/coatings and cleaning agents were the most frequent product categories, while additional presence in personal care and indoor-use products was observed. These products may lead to exposure depending on use conditions, such as spraying or inadequate ventilation, which can increase inhalation and skin contact. Their presence in diverse products suggests potential for both occupational and chronic low-level exposures. By providing an integrated overview of market presence, use patterns, and available neurotoxicity evidence for propylene glycol ethers, our findings highlight a critical gap in chemical risk assessment: the absence of neurotoxicity testing despite high production volumes and widespread use. Integrating neurotoxicity endpoints and new approach methodologies into regulatory frameworks is essential to strengthen public health protection. Full article

Silica aerogel microspheres demonstrate tremendous potential as fillers for diverse materials across various fields. Enhancing the strength of silica aerogel microspheres is therefore crucial for their practical applications. This study aims to develop novel hydrophobic polymer-reinforced silica aerogel microspheres using water glass as the precursor, hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) as the modifier, and styrene as the crosslinking agent, with further strength enhancement achieved through short-term thermal post-treatment. The effects of varying polystyrene coating levels, crosslinker dosage, and short-term heat treatment on the structure and properties of silica aerogel were investigated. The optimized silica aerogel microspheres (Sample A-6) exhibited a specific surface area of 604.8 m²/g and a thermal conductivity of 0.030 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ and demonstrated excellent hydrophobicity and mechanical stability. Full article

Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) is a devastating plant pathogen with an extensive host range, yet effective control strategies remain limited. This study investigated the prophylactic efficacy and molecular mechanisms of two plant immune inducers, the Paecilomyces variotii extract DYDS and the antiviral agent Dufulin, against AMV infection in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Our results demonstrate that both agents possess potent antiviral activity, with inactivation, protective, and therapeutic efficacies all exceeding 21.00%. Notably, DYDS exhibited superior overall performance. RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence assays confirmed a significant downregulation of AMV coat protein (CP) expression in treated plants. Furthermore, exogenous application of these inducers mitigated chlorophyll loss and markedly augmented the activities of key defense enzymes’ activity, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and L-phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), peaking at 5 days post-inoculation. In silico molecular docking simulations further revealed that DYDS and Dufulin interact spontaneously with the AMV-CP, yielding binding free energies of −6.5 and −5.8 kcal/mol, respectively. Gene expression analysis indicated that these inducers trigger a robust immune response through the integrated activation of the salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA), and ethylene (ET) signaling pathways. Collectively, these findings suggest that DYDS and Dufulin provide a dual mode of action—direct viral inhibition and host immune priming—offering a promising and sustainable approach for the management of AMV in leguminous crops. Full article

This work investigates the use of two photoactive polymers, functionalized with quantum dots (QDs) (ZnS and CdTe/ZnS), to develop optical sensing hydrogel films through their interactions. It examines their responses to light stimulation for potential biological applications. The optical and morphological properties of the films were studied, revealing photoactive surfaces. The photoactive copolymers were synthesized based on poly(maleic anhydride-alt-2-methyl-2-butene), P(MAn-alt-2MB), and poly(maleic anhydride-alt-1-octadecene), P(MAn-alt-OD), by attaching the photochromic agent, 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3,3-dimethylindoline-6-nitrobenzo pyran (SP). Subsequently, QD nanoparticles (ZnS or CdTe/ZnS NPs) were incorporated into the polymer solutions in the presence of a crosslinker agent, and were then spin-coated onto glass substrates under suitable conditions to produce porous-patterned films. These films were created using a one-step bio-inspired process called the breath figure (BF) method. SEM images of QD-containing samples show a photoactive porous surface resulting from a synergistic interaction between the components. The reversibility of these macroscopic properties results from photoinduced transformations at the molecular level. The light-emitting properties of the films were characterized by blue and violet fluorescence under UV light. Advances in film-forming techniques enable the creation of functional structures with important applications, such as microstructured hydrogel films for biological uses. Full article

Biofilm production by foodborne pathogens poses significant challenges to food safety and quality, leading to contamination, deterioration, and substantial economic losses for the food industry. Traditional biofilm control methods, such as chemical disinfectants, antibiotics, and preservatives, are sometimes ineffective against persistent biofilms, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance and the accumulation of chemical residues. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have emerged as attractive natural biocontrol agents due to their ability to produce a wide range of antimicrobial secondary metabolites, including bacteriocins, organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and biosurfactants. This paper thoroughly examines the effect of LAB and their metabolites in preventing and destroying biofilms generated by bacteria relevant to food systems, including Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas spp. The processes causing LAB-mediated biofilm attenuation are thoroughly investigated, including competition for nutrients and adhesion sites, interference with quorum sensing (QS), and metabolic inhibition. Furthermore, recent breakthroughs in LAB-based techniques for food preservation and facility hygiene are discussed, including the creation of LAB-derived antimicrobial coatings, biosurfactant-based cleaning agents, and probiotic bio-coatings for industrial sanitation. The incorporation of nanotechnology has enhanced LAB applications by enabling the creation of LAB-mediated metallic nanoparticles and encapsulated formulations that improve metabolite stability and facilitate controlled release. The combination of LAB metabolites, natural preservatives, and eco-friendly materials in active packaging provides sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals. Overall, this review emphasizes the potential of LAB and their bioactive derivatives as environmentally friendly and practical tools for controlling biofilms and preserving food, thereby promoting safer food production systems and accelerating the food industry’s transition to green, sustainable technologies. Full article

Coated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) comprising Fe₃O₄ are a powerful drug delivery system for cancer treatment. They can be preferentially internalized into the tumour cells and release the antitumoral agents on-site. In the present work, we have functionalized the MNPs with glutamic acid which, even if non-essential, is strongly involved in the protein synthesis as a nitrogen donor, being used as a conjugate for specific antitumoral drugs due to its capability to internalize into tumour versus healthy cells faster. The functionalized MNPs were stabilized by polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating. This system improves drug efficacy by concentrating therapeutic agents at the tumour site, and can also induce ferroptosis in cancer cells, an iron-dependent cell death process, which has a beneficial therapeutic effect. Additionally, PEG molecules on the surface of MNPs facilitate drug conjugation for targeted delivery to cancer cells. These MNPs were designed as a delivery system for antitumoral drugs like irinotecan, carboplatin and cisplatin for personalized therapies. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the functionalization with glutamic acid and stabilization with PEG can improve the internalization efficiency of the magnetic carriers into the tumour cells. Owing to their stability, the MNPs can reach and penetrate mitochondria and organize around lipid vesicles, with the most effective results observed for the cisplatin-loaded system from a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL. Full article

Mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBGs) represent a significant advancement in bioactive glass technology, combining the well-established osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties of traditional bioactive glasses with the structural precision provided by highly ordered mesoporosity. Their characteristic architecture, defined by uniform pores typically ranging from a few to several tens of nanometers and exceptionally high surface areas reaching several hundred m²/g, enables enhanced drug-loading capacity, controlled therapeutic ion release, and accelerated tissue regeneration. In this work, we emphasize how the synthesis of these materials is predominantly governed by structure-directing agents, which critically influence the pore size, mesophase ordering, surface area, and structural stability. Additionally, we discuss how compositional tailoring, particularly through therapeutic ion doping with elements such as Sr, Cu, Zn, or B, can impart osteogenic, angiogenic, antibacterial, or antioxidant functionalities. Moreover, we illustrate how these functionalities can be further expanded and enhanced by employing a comprehensive suite of characterization tools to establish robust correlations between synthesis parameters, mesostructural features, and biological performance. Improving the above functionalities enables the MBGs to exhibit exceptional versatility across biomedical applications, notably in bone tissue engineering (as hierarchical or composite scaffolds), controlled drug delivery (anticancer, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory agents), wound healing, dental therapy, and bioactive implant coatings. Finally, we acknowledge that despite their broad potential, several associated challenges remain, including the synthesis scalability, batch-to-batch reproducibility, mechanical fragility of pure MBGs, and the complexity of predicting in vivo degradation and ion-release behaviors. We believe that emerging research directions, including eco-friendly synthesis routes, stimuli-responsive smart MBGs, multifunctional theranostic platforms, and patient-specific additive manufacturing, are poised to overcome current limitations and drive the next generation of MBG-based biomedical technologies. Full article

This paper introduced a simple, efficient method to prepare mechanically strong lignin-based foams (lignofoams) with open-cell structures using a facile baking technique. The self-expansion of lignin occurred without any additional chemical blowing agents, foaming agents, plasticizers, or lubricants. During heating, kraft lignin softened, and the internal water, either initially adsorbed or generated in situ through the dehydration of hydroxyl groups, acted as a natural blowing agent for foaming a porous foam structure. Incorporating a small amount of polypropylene (PP) enhanced mechanical properties by coating the inner walls of open cells. The porous, softened composite was then cooled to room temperature and solidified into the self-expanded lignofoam. The resulting lignofoams exhibited tunable densities ranging from 0.21 to 0.49 g/cm³ and a maximum compressive strength of 3.6 MPa. The lignofoam also showed excellent thermal insulation properties with low thermal conductive coefficients (0.057–0.098 W/mK). These features highlight the great potential of lignofoam for a bio-based thermal insulation material for construction applications. Full article