Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (709)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = e-liquid composition

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
13 pages, 2272 KB  
Article
Enhanced Recoverability and Recycling of Resistant Waste Crosslinked Polyethylene via FeTiO3 Catalyst-Assisted Slow Pyrolysis
by Pavel Straka, Olga Bičáková and Jaroslav Cihlář
Recycling 2025, 10(6), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling10060202 - 31 Oct 2025
Viewed by 124
Abstract
Crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) is a widely used material which—unlike polyethylene—is very stable both chemically and mechanically. Therefore, waste from this material is difficult to process. A very promising way is slow pyrolysis catalyzed by FeTiO3 (ilmenite), which allows the conversion of this [...] Read more.
Crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) is a widely used material which—unlike polyethylene—is very stable both chemically and mechanically. Therefore, waste from this material is difficult to process. A very promising way is slow pyrolysis catalyzed by FeTiO3 (ilmenite), which allows the conversion of this waste into hydrocarbons via degradation of the rigid chemical structure of crosslinked material. High liquid hydrocarbon yields were achieved by slow pyrolysis both without and with a catalyst at a final temperature of 470 °C (65 and 75–76 wt.%, respectively), but with the catalyst significantly changing the composition of the resulting hydrocarbons. To reveal the possibilities of using the FeTiO3 catalyst for processing waste XLPE, the effect of this catalyst on the degradation of the XLPE structure was investigated. The degradation is probably greatly facilitated by the action of the FeTiO3 catalyst at the defect sites of the XLPE structure, i.e., at the tertiary carbons in the main chain where branching into cross-links occurs. In this way, the FeTiO3 catalyst, even in very small amounts (1%), significantly promotes the degradation of the XLPE structure. This leads to the formation of liquid hydrocarbons, up to 92 wt.% of the products obtained. The novelty of this work lies in a technologically feasible method for processing resistant crosslinked waste material using an inexpensive catalyst; the proposed method provides hydrocarbons with high utility value. On the whole, slow pyrolysis of XLPE waste catalyzed by FeTiO3 at a final temperature of 470 °C and carried out under well-defined conditions appears to be a promising method for converting this waste into valuable hydrocarbons and energy gas. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 10504 KB  
Article
Phase Equilibrium Relationship of CaO-Al2O3-Ce2O3-CaF2 Slag System at 1300~1500 °C
by Lifeng Sun, Jiangsheng Ye, Jiyu Qiu and Chengjun Liu
Metals 2025, 15(11), 1209; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15111209 - 30 Oct 2025
Viewed by 82
Abstract
CaO-Al2O3-Ce2O3 is a potential new-type basic metallurgical slag system for rare earth steel. To investigate the effects of CaF2 on the melting point and equilibrium phase types of this slag system, the phase equilibrium relationships [...] Read more.
CaO-Al2O3-Ce2O3 is a potential new-type basic metallurgical slag system for rare earth steel. To investigate the effects of CaF2 on the melting point and equilibrium phase types of this slag system, the phase equilibrium relationships and extent of the liquid phase region of CaO-Al2O3-Ce2O3-CaF2 slag system at 1300 °C, 1400 °C, and 1500 °C in C/CO were determined by the high-temperature phase equilibrium experiment, Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (SEM-EDX) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and the isothermal phase diagram was plotted. The experimental results show that within the composition range in this study, the slag system has five, seven, and six liquid–solid equilibrium coexistence regions at 1300 °C, 1400 °C, and 1500 °C. The involved multiphase equilibrium regions include five two-phase regions (i.e., Liquid + CaO, Liquid + CaO·2Al2O3, Liquid + 2CaO·Al2O3·Ce2O3, Liquid + 2CaO·3Al2O3·Ce2O3, Liquid + 11CaO·7Al2O3·CaF2), 4 three-phase regions (i.e., Liquid + CaO + 2CaO·Al2O3·Ce2O3, Liquid + 11CaO·7Al2O3·CaF2 + 2CaO·Al2O3·Ce2O3, Liquid + CaO·2Al2O3 + 2CaO·3Al2O3·Ce2O3, Liquid + 11CaO·7Al2O3·CaF2 + 2CaO·3Al2O3·Ce2O3), and 1 four-phase region (i.e., Liquid + CaO + 11CaO·7Al2O3·CaF2 + 2CaO·Al2O3·Ce2O3). Meanwhile, based on liquid phase compositions under liquid–solid multiphase equilibrium, the slag system’s liquid phase ranges at the experimental temperatures were determined as follows: at 1300 °C: w(CaO)/w(Al2O3) = 0.42~0.92, w(Ce2O3) = 1.63%~8.02%, w(CaF2) = 9.17%~21.46%; 1400 °C: 0.28~1.18, 0.9%~12.62%, 1.04%~23.34%, respectively; 1500 °C: 0.23~1.21, 0~14.42%, 0~26.32%, respectively. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 2876 KB  
Article
Blend Prediction Model for Vapor Pressure of Jet Fuel Range Hydrocarbons
by Randall C. Boehm, Robert Parker, Zhibin Yang, Stephen Dooley and Joshua S. Heyne
Sustainability 2025, 17(21), 9612; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17219612 - 29 Oct 2025
Viewed by 128
Abstract
The ability to predict the vapor pressure and vapor-phase composition of hydrocarbon mixtures (such as jet fuel, sustainable aviation fuel or its un-refined precursors) and partially vaporized hydrocarbon mixtures is important to simulations of processes that involve vaporization such as distillations, flash points, [...] Read more.
The ability to predict the vapor pressure and vapor-phase composition of hydrocarbon mixtures (such as jet fuel, sustainable aviation fuel or its un-refined precursors) and partially vaporized hydrocarbon mixtures is important to simulations of processes that involve vaporization such as distillations, flash points, combustion properties of partially vaporized fuels, etc. Raoult’s Law provides a simple algebraic formula relating liquid composition and temperature to vapor composition and pressure. However, Raoult’s Law is not accurate at low mole fractions, which is typical for complex mixtures such as fuels. A common approach to correcting Raoult’s Law is to apply a scale factor, a so-called activity coefficient. Numerous models exist for predicting activity coefficients. Here we benchmark against the UNIFAC model, which predicts activity coefficients based on mole fractions, group fractions, Van der Waals volume and surface area and temperature-dependent interaction terms between groups. While this approach is truly predictive, its accuracy at very low mole fractions has not been validated, and it is computationally intensive, particularly for simulations (especially optimizations) that require vapor composition or pressure within the inner-most loop. Here we present an alternative correction to Raoult’s law, where the vapor pressure of the ith component is represented by a modified form of the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. The reference temperature (Tref) is replaced by a simple algebraic function that converges to Tref as xi approaches 1 while smoothly increasing from this value as xi decreases. Simultaneously, the heat of vaporization (ΔHvap,i(T)) term is replaced by another simple algebraic expression that converges to ΔHvap,iT as xi approaches 1 while smoothly decreasing as xi decreases. In this model, the temperature-dependent heat of vaporization is tuned at each temperature such that the Clausius–Clapeyron equation reproduces the correct vapor pressure of the neat material, while the parameterized algebraic corrections are tuned to vapor pressure data of mixtures involving n-pentane, toluene, and dodecane, where the mole fractions of n-pentane and toluene are maintained below 10%mol. Validation of the resulting model is accomplished by comparing modeled vapor–liquid equilibrium systems with experimental measurements. This approach improves the accuracy and computational efficiency of volatility predictions, thereby supporting the development, certification, and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

28 pages, 3837 KB  
Article
Thai Medicinal Flowers as Natural Antioxidants and Antibacterial Agents Against Pathogenic Enteric Bacteria: A Comparative Study of Mesua ferrea, Mammea siamensis, and Clitoria ternatea
by Sureeporn Suriyaprom, Nitsanat Cheepchirasuk, Pornpimon Ngamsaard, Varachaya Intachaisri, Angkhana Inta and Yingmanee Tragoolpua
Antibiotics 2025, 14(10), 1038; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14101038 - 16 Oct 2025
Viewed by 594
Abstract
Thai medicinal flowers, namely Mesua ferrea L. (Bunnak), Mammea siamensis T. Anderson (Saraphi), and Clitoria ternatea (Anchan) have long been valued for their traditional medicinal. This study investigated their phytochemical composition and bioactivities, with a particular focus on antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Methods: [...] Read more.
Thai medicinal flowers, namely Mesua ferrea L. (Bunnak), Mammea siamensis T. Anderson (Saraphi), and Clitoria ternatea (Anchan) have long been valued for their traditional medicinal. This study investigated their phytochemical composition and bioactivities, with a particular focus on antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Methods: Ethanolic flower extracts were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). Antioxidant activities were determined by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhi, Shigella dysenteriae, and Vibrio cholerae were assessed by agar well diffusion, broth dilution methods, and time–kill assays. Biofilm formation, biofilm disruption, and bacterial adhesion to Caco-2 cells were evaluated. Morphological changes in E. coli O157:H7 were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and leakage of intracellular contents (DNA, RNA, proteins) were quantified. Results: HPLC analysis revealed the highest level of gallic acid in M. ferrea and quercetin in M. siamensis. LC–MS analysis identified fifteen putative metabolites across the flower extracts, including quercetin, kaempferol, catechin, and luteolin derivatives, with species-specific profiles. C. ternatea extract exhibited the greatest total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. Among the extracts, M. ferrea exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect, with inhibition zone of 13.00–15.00 mm and MIC/MBC values of 31.25–62.5 mg/mL. All extracts exhibited time-dependent bactericidal activity, significantly inhibited biofilm formation, disrupted established biofilms, and reduced bacterial adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells. SEM revealed membrane disruption in E. coli O157:H7 and leakage of intracellular components. Conclusions: Thai medicinal flower extracts, particularly M. ferrea, possess strong antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Their ability to inhibit biofilm formation, interfere with bacterial adhesion, and disrupt bacterial membranes highlights their potential as natural alternatives for preventing or controlling enteric bacterial infections. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1417 KB  
Article
Surface Aggregation Adsorption of Binary Solutions Between Diiodomethane, Furfural, and N,N-Dimethylformamide
by Zhongwei Huang, Na Du and Wanguo Hou
Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(5), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9050067 - 9 Oct 2025
Viewed by 339
Abstract
The surface tensions (σ) of binary solutions of diiodomethane (DIM, 1)–furfural (FA, 2), DIM (1)–N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF, 2), and FA (1)–DMF (2) were determined at 25 °C over the entire bulk composition range, and the surface adsorption behavior [...] Read more.
The surface tensions (σ) of binary solutions of diiodomethane (DIM, 1)–furfural (FA, 2), DIM (1)–N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF, 2), and FA (1)–DMF (2) were determined at 25 °C over the entire bulk composition range, and the surface adsorption behavior was analyzed using the surface aggregation adsorption (SAA) model proposed recently. In particular, by combining the SAA model with the Gibbs adsorption equation, the changes in the Gibbs surface excess (Γ2) and the adsorption layer thickness (τ) with the bulk composition (x2,b) were investigated. The SAA model combined with the modified Eberhart model can well describe the σ-isotherms of the three binary solutions. The surface adsorption trends of component 2 in DIM–FA, DIM–DMF, and FA–DMF decrease in turn. The change trends of Γ2 and τ with x2,b are dependent on the SAA model parameters, namely, the adsorption equilibrium constant (Kx) and the average aggregation number (n). With an increase in x2,b, Γ2 continuously increases when Kx < 2v1/[n(2n − 1)v2] (where v1 and v2 are the partial molar volumes of components 1 and 2, respectively); otherwise (i.e., Kx ≥ 2v1/[n(2n − 1)v2]), Γ2 initially increases and then decreases, showing a maximum on the Γ2-isotherm. When n ≥ 1, τ gradually decreases with an increase in x2,b; otherwise (i.e., n < 1), τ initially increases and then decreases, showing a maximum on the τ-isotherm. An increase in the adsorption trend leads to a decrease in both Γ2 and τ. This work provides a better understanding of the surface adsorption behavior of liquid mixtures. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 679 KB  
Article
Insight into Cytotoxic Potential of Erica spiculifolia Salisb (Balkan Heath)
by Reneta Gevrenova, Rositsa Mihaylova, Nikolay Bebrivenski, Georgi Momekov and Dimitrina Zheleva-Dimitrova
Plants 2025, 14(19), 3063; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14193063 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 461
Abstract
Erica spiculifolia Salisb. (Balkan heath) is an evergreen shrub growing in the mountain shrublands of Eastern Europe. E. spiculifolia was used as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant herbal remedy. The present study aims to conduct an evaluation of the phytochemical composition and antitumor [...] Read more.
Erica spiculifolia Salisb. (Balkan heath) is an evergreen shrub growing in the mountain shrublands of Eastern Europe. E. spiculifolia was used as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant herbal remedy. The present study aims to conduct an evaluation of the phytochemical composition and antitumor activity of the methanol–aqueous extract from E. spiculifolia aerial parts to explore its potential in cancer treatment. Overall, a total of 54 secondary metabolites, including 28 hydroxybenzoic, hydroxycinnamic acids, and phenolic glycosides, and 10 triterpene acids, together with 17 flavonoids, were identified or annotated in the assayed E. spiculifolia extract using liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry. The cytotoxic activity of the extract, alongside gallic, protocatechuic, and oleanolic acids as its constituents, was screened against a panel of malignant human cell lines of different origin (LAMA-84, HL-60, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and CASKI). The most prominent antiproliferative effect of the studied extract (with IC50 16.6 μg/mL), matched with the highest tumor selectivity (SI > 120), was observed in the LAMA-84 myeloid cells. These findings were further supported by gallic and oleanolic acid (IC50 6.2 and 1.7 μg/mL, respectively), accounting for a more distinct cytotoxicity. The strongest selective antineoplastic activity was achieved towards the triple-negative breast carcinoma cell line MDA-MB-231, with an IC50 of 32.5 μg/mL. This study provided compelling evidence for a wide spectrum of E. spiculifolia antitumor activity, indicating its potential as a natural alternative for future therapeutic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemical Profiling and Bioactive Potential of Plants)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1349 KB  
Article
Chemical Profiling and Sensory Analysis Reveal Quality Differentiation in Baimudan White Tea Processed from Three Major Fujian Tea Cultivars
by Yucheng Zheng, Yuping Zhang, Yun Zou, Yutao Shi, Jianming Zhang, Huili Deng, Zhanhua Ji, Zhenying Liang and Xinlei Li
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101196 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 586
Abstract
White tea quality is primarily determined by its chemical composition, which varies significantly among cultivars. This study aimed to elucidate the chemical basis underlying quality differentiation in Baimudan white tea produced from three major Fujian tea cultivars: “Zhenghe Dabaicha” (ZHDB), “Fuan Dabaicha” (FADB), [...] Read more.
White tea quality is primarily determined by its chemical composition, which varies significantly among cultivars. This study aimed to elucidate the chemical basis underlying quality differentiation in Baimudan white tea produced from three major Fujian tea cultivars: “Zhenghe Dabaicha” (ZHDB), “Fuan Dabaicha” (FADB), and “Fuding Dahaocha” (FDDH). Headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) were employed to characterize volatile compounds, amino acids, and saccharides. Odor Activity Values (OAVs) and Taste Activity Values (TAVs) were calculated to identify key contributors to sensory perception. Results showed that theanine, glutamic acid, asparagine, and serine were the primary contributors to umami taste, especially in ZHDB and FADB. Sweetness differences were largely due to sucrose, serine, and asparagine. OAV analysis further identified 22 critical aroma compounds: methyl salicylate, linalool, and β-ionone predominantly imparted floral notes, while β-ocimene, benzaldehyde, and geraniol enhanced sweet and fruity aromas. In contrast, (Z)-3-hexenol, (Z)-3-hexenal, and (E)-2-hexenal contributed grassy and refreshing characteristics, together defining the unique aroma profiles of each cultivar. This study provides an integrated chemical and sensory framework for understanding white tea quality variation, offering a theoretical basis for targeted flavor modulation. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1537 KB  
Article
Multistage Countercurrent Extraction of Abalone Viscera Oil and Its Hypolipidemic Action on High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia Mice
by Meiling Tian, Chunjiang Li, Lili Liu, Fahui Xiang, Weiwei Li, Changcheng Li, Binxiong Liu and Ting Fang
Nutrients 2025, 17(19), 3062; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17193062 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 522
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Marine-derived oils rich in long-chain polyunsaturated fats have long been associated with positive effects on plasma lipid levels and anti-inflammatory responses. Abalone viscera are rich in oils that are rarely extracted and made available. Methods: Abalone viscera oil (AVO) was extracted by [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Marine-derived oils rich in long-chain polyunsaturated fats have long been associated with positive effects on plasma lipid levels and anti-inflammatory responses. Abalone viscera are rich in oils that are rarely extracted and made available. Methods: Abalone viscera oil (AVO) was extracted by multistage countercurrent extraction using ethanol as a solvent, and its oil quality, fatty acid composition, and in vitro antioxidant activity were determined. Meanwhile, the anti-hyperlipidemic effect of AVO on HFD-induced hyperlipidemia mice was evaluated. Results: The abalone viscera were extracted at a solid–liquid ratio of 1:3 with an oscillation frequency of 300 rpm for 40 min, and the extraction rate was 81.18% after four-stage countercurrent extraction. The acid value, iodine value, peroxide value, vitamin E, and astaxanthin of AVO were 1.26 mg KOH/g, 140.9 g/100 g, 3.6 meq/kg, 105 mg/kg, and 533.8 mg/kg, respectively. The unsaturated fatty acids of AVO account for 56.60%, with eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n3) and arachidonic acid (C20:4n6) the two predominant PUFAs, and oleic acid (C18:1n9) the most dominant MUFA. The DPPH, ABTS, and ·OH radicals scavenging capacities of AVO increased with concentration, and the IC50 values were 6.30 mg/mL, 0.45 mg/mL, and 8.95 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the administration of AVO significantly alleviated HFD-induced weight gain, liver fat accumulation, lipid disorder, and oxidative stress in mice. Conclusions: Collectively, our study provides a theoretical basis for the application of AVO and the comprehensive utilization of abalone viscera, which helps increase the additional value of abalone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Lipids)
Show Figures

Figure 1

36 pages, 2986 KB  
Article
Sequencing Analysis and Radiocarbon Dating of Yarn Fragments from Six Paracas Mantles from Bundle WK12-382
by Jaime Williams, Avi Dragun, Malak Shehab, Imani Peterkin, Ann H. Peters, Kathryn Jakes, John Southon, Collin Sauter, James Moran and Ruth Ann Armitage
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100398 - 23 Sep 2025
Viewed by 568
Abstract
The Necrópolis de Wari Kayan, at the Paracas site in the coastal desert of south–central Peru, is a large archeologically excavated mortuary complex with fine textile preservation, dated approximately to 2000 BP. This study investigates loose yarns associated with textiles from Wari Kayan [...] Read more.
The Necrópolis de Wari Kayan, at the Paracas site in the coastal desert of south–central Peru, is a large archeologically excavated mortuary complex with fine textile preservation, dated approximately to 2000 BP. This study investigates loose yarns associated with textiles from Wari Kayan tomb 12 (bundle 382), collected by the late Dr. Anne Paul in 1985 at what is now the Museo Nacional de Arqueología Antropología e Historia del Perú (MNAAHP). Sequencing multiple state-of-the-art analyses, including direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with diode array detection, and accelerator mass spectrometry, on the same small sample, seeks to “squeeze out every drop” of information. Six mantles from the outer layer include different sets of color hues and values, representing either different time periods or different producer groups. Plasma oxidation at low temperature (<100 °C) prepared carbon dioxide for AMS radiocarbon analysis. Fibers remaining after oxidation were combusted for light-stable isotope analysis. The sequential analysis results in fiber and dye composition, radiocarbon age, and stable isotope fractionation values may suggest fiber origin, continuing and updating a project started over 40 years ago. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dyes in History and Archaeology 43)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1581 KB  
Article
Quantification of Caffeic Acid as Well as Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Ucuuba (Virola surinamensis) Co-Product Extract to Obtain New Functional and Nutraceutical Foods
by Lindalva Maria de Meneses Costa Ferreira, Rayanne Rocha Pereira, Kalene de Almeida Oliveira, Attilio Converti, Edilene Oliveira da Silva, José Otávio Carréra Silva-Júnior and Roseane Maria Ribeiro-Costa
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(18), 10291; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151810291 - 22 Sep 2025
Viewed by 593
Abstract
Ucuuba (Virola surinamensis) is a fruit of Amazonian origin with anti-inflammatory, nutritional, and phenolic substances. This study aimed to prepare and characterize the ucuuba co-product extract as well as to evaluate its antioxidant and cytotoxic activities, proximate composition, and water activity. [...] Read more.
Ucuuba (Virola surinamensis) is a fruit of Amazonian origin with anti-inflammatory, nutritional, and phenolic substances. This study aimed to prepare and characterize the ucuuba co-product extract as well as to evaluate its antioxidant and cytotoxic activities, proximate composition, and water activity. For this purpose, the co-product and its extract were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and their thermal behavior was investigated by thermogravimetry (TG). The ucuuba co-product extract was also evaluated for its contents of total polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidant activity by the DPPH and ABTS assays, and cytotoxicity in normal J774.A1 macrophages by the MTT technique. The co-product proved to have important macronutrient contents from a nutritional point of view, i.e., 11.67 ± 0.731% fiber, 16.67 ± 0.36% lipids, 38.32 ± 0.19% proteins, and 30.56% carbohydrates, as well as low moisture content (6.73 ± 0.05%) and water activity (0.403). FTIR spectra showed characteristic absorption peaks of phenolic compounds. The ucuuba co-product (pressed seeds) and the extract obtained from the ucuuba seed co-product were stable at around 100 °C and showed two mass loss events typical of natural products. The extract contained total polyphenols and flavonoids amounting to 806.45 mg/100 g and 62 mg RE/100 g, respectively, and its antioxidant activity according to the DPPH and ABTS assays was 374.33 and 258.15 µM Trolox/g, respectively. Caffeic acid was identified as an abundant phenolic compound (5.17 µg/mL) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-DAD), and its quantification method was validated. Furthermore, there was no cytotoxicity in the macrophage cell line at concentrations up to 100 µg/mL. These results indicate that the ucuuba co-product could be reused to develop new functional and nutraceutical foods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical and Molecular Sciences)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1603 KB  
Article
Ultrasound-Assisted Eutectic Solvent-Based Process Intensification for Sustainable Recovery of Oleuropein from Olive Leaves
by Andrea Sánchez-Monedero, María González-Miquel and Emilio J. González
Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3829; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183829 - 21 Sep 2025
Viewed by 581
Abstract
Olive leaves, a significant source of agri-food waste, can be valorized as feedstock in biorefineries due to their high content of antioxidant compounds, mainly polyphenols. This study aims to valorize olive leaves through an efficient solid/liquid extraction of oleuropein, its main polyphenol, using [...] Read more.
Olive leaves, a significant source of agri-food waste, can be valorized as feedstock in biorefineries due to their high content of antioxidant compounds, mainly polyphenols. This study aims to valorize olive leaves through an efficient solid/liquid extraction of oleuropein, its main polyphenol, using green solvents and advanced technologies. Accordingly, three natural eutectic solvents formed with 1,2-butanediol and choline chloride, betaine, or proline, which incorporated water or ethanol as cosolvents, and ultrasound-assisted extraction to enhance the process were used in this work. Additionally, the effect of the cosolvent composition on the physical properties of the solvent mixtures (i.e., density and viscosity as a function of temperature) was evaluated. The extraction time was optimized for both conventional and intensified extractions, and the antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed over time to determine their stability. Measurements through high-performance liquid chromatography and antioxidant activity assays concluded that ultrasound-assisted extraction using the solvent proline:1,2-butanediol prepared with ethanol at 25–75% composition yielded the best results at 37.00 mg of oleuropein per gram of dry sample (g/ds), obtained after just 1 min of intensified extraction, with a notable reduction in both time and energy consumption from conventional extraction, while providing significant antioxidant activity and stability. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3655 KB  
Case Report
Effects and Microbiota Changes Following Oral Lyophilized Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Capsules in Canine with Chronic Enteropathy After Parvovirus Infection: Case Report
by Siyu Liu, Baihui Zhou, Lei Liu, Jialai Zhong, Xinyan Zhang, Wenting Jiang, Haifeng Liu, Ziyao Zhou, Guangneng Peng, Yalin Zhong, Kun Zhang and Zhijun Zhong
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(9), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12090909 - 18 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1054
Abstract
(1) Background: Chronic enteropathy (CE) in canines is associated with persistent microbiome dysbiosis, and conventional therapies (e.g., special diets, antimicrobials, and immunosuppressive drugs) are sometimes ineffective. Currently, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has proven successful in treating CE in canines via invasive methods (e.g., [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Chronic enteropathy (CE) in canines is associated with persistent microbiome dysbiosis, and conventional therapies (e.g., special diets, antimicrobials, and immunosuppressive drugs) are sometimes ineffective. Currently, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has proven successful in treating CE in canines via invasive methods (e.g., enemas or endoscopy) or via oral frozen liquid capsules, which must be stored at −80 °C. However, due to the invasiveness of the administration methods and the storage constraints of the liquid capsules, FMT is not widely used in veterinary clinical practice. (2) Methods: The case of a four-year-old Siberian Husky with a three-year history of CE following canine parvovirus infection received lyophilized FMT capsules for thirty days. Stool samples were collected for metagenomic sequencing and quantification of fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), both pre- and post-FMT. Blood samples were analyzed using complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical testing. Ultrasound was used to assess the wall thickness of the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, and colon. (3) Results: Post-FMT, improvements in clinical outcomes were observed: fecal scores improved from 6 (unformed stools with mucus) to 2 (formed stool), and body weight increased by 8.3% (from 24.2 kg to 26.2 kg). Abnormal CBC and biochemical parameters were restored to reference ranges, including hematocrit (from 60.6% to 55.7%), hemoglobin (from 208 g/L to 190 g/L), creatinine (from 167 μmol/L to 121 μmol/L), and urea (from 11.9 mmol/L to 7.1 mmol/L). Ultrasound results showed that colonic wall thickness decreased from 0.23 ± 0.03 cm (pathological) to 0.18 ± 0.01 cm (physiological). Metagenomic analysis revealed that microbial richness (operational taxonomic units (OTUs) from 151 to 183) and diversity (Shannon and Simpson indices from 3.16 to 4.8 and from 0.87 to 0.94, respectively) all increased. The microbiota composition of the recipient exhibited a decline in the relative abundance of Firmicutes, falling from 99.84% to 35.62%, concomitant with an increase in Actinobacteria (from 0.08% to 4.78%), indicating a convergence toward a donor-like profile. Fecal SCFAs analysis revealed a 251.4% increase in propionate (from 0.0833 to 0.2929 mg/g) and elevated acetate (from 0.4425 to 0.4676 mg/g). These changes are functionally linked to enriched propanoate metabolism (Z = 0.89) in KEGG pathways. (4) Conclusions: Oral lyophilized FMT capsules resolved clinical signs of CE, enhanced microbial diversity and richness, and restored donor-like abundances of gut microbiota, particularly SCFA-producing taxa. Microbial restructuring increased microbial metabolite output, notably SCFA concentrations, and enriched functional metabolic pathways. Importantly, lyophilized FMT overcomes storage limitations and administration barriers, demonstrating its high clinical viability for treating canine CE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Therapy in Companion Animals—2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5076 KB  
Article
3D-Printed Continuous Flax Fiber-Reinforced Composites Based on a Dual-Resin System
by Yu Long, Zhongsen Zhang, Zhixiong Bi, Kunkun Fu and Yan Li
Polymers 2025, 17(18), 2515; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17182515 - 17 Sep 2025
Viewed by 647
Abstract
Compared with traditional continuous plant fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites, their 3D-printed counterparts offer distinct advantages in the rapid fabrication of complex geometries with integrated forming capabilities. However, the impregnation process of continuous plant fiber yarn with thermoplastic resin presents greater technical challenges compared to [...] Read more.
Compared with traditional continuous plant fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites, their 3D-printed counterparts offer distinct advantages in the rapid fabrication of complex geometries with integrated forming capabilities. However, the impregnation process of continuous plant fiber yarn with thermoplastic resin presents greater technical challenges compared to conventional synthetic fibers (e.g., carbon or glass fibers) typically employed in continuous fiber composites, owing to the yarn’s unique twisted structure. In addition, low molding pressure during 3D printing makes resin impregnation more difficult. To address the impregnation difficulty within plant fiber yarn during 3D printing, we employed two low-viscosity resins, liquid thermoplastic resin (specifically, reactive methyl methacrylate) and thermosetting epoxy resin, to pre-impregnate flax yarns, respectively. A dual-resin prepreg filament is developed for 3D printing of flax fiber-reinforced composites, involving re-coating pre-impregnated flax yarns with polylactic acid. The experimental results indicate that liquid thermoplastic resin-impregnated composites exhibit enhanced mechanical properties, surpassing the epoxy system by 39% in tensile strength and 29% in modulus, attributed to improved impregnation and better interfacial compatibility. This preparation method demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing liquid thermoplastic resin in 3D-printed continuous plant fiber composites, offering a novel approach for producing highly impregnated continuous fiber filaments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Manufacture of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 6369 KB  
Article
Plasma–Liquid Synthesis of PLA/MXene Composite Films and Their Structural, Optical, and Photocatalytic Properties
by Nikolay Sirotkin, Anna Khlyustova and Alexander Agafonov
Catalysts 2025, 15(9), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15090890 - 16 Sep 2025
Viewed by 445
Abstract
This study addresses the need for sustainable, high-performance photocatalytic materials by developing novel polylactide (PLA)/MXene composites. A one-step plasma-liquid synthesis method was employed, utilizing a direct current discharge between metal electrodes (Ti, Mo) in a carbon tetrachloride and PLA solution. This single-step process [...] Read more.
This study addresses the need for sustainable, high-performance photocatalytic materials by developing novel polylactide (PLA)/MXene composites. A one-step plasma-liquid synthesis method was employed, utilizing a direct current discharge between metal electrodes (Ti, Mo) in a carbon tetrachloride and PLA solution. This single-step process simultaneously exfoliates MXene nanosheets (Ti2CClx, Mo2CClx, Mo2TiC2Clx) and incorporates them into the polymer matrix. The resulting composite films exhibit a highly porous morphology and significantly enhanced optical absorption, with band gaps reduced to 0.62–1.15 eV, enabling efficient visible-light harvesting. The composites demonstrate excellent photocatalytic activity for degrading a mixture of organic dyes (Methylene Blue > Rhodamine B > Reactive Red 6C) under visible light. The developed plasma-liquid technique presents a streamlined, efficient route for fabricating visible-light-driven PLA/MXene photocatalysts, offering a sustainable solution for advanced water purification applications. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

25 pages, 6732 KB  
Article
Preparation and Application of Shen Ling Cao Composite Particles with Different Structures Based on Co-Spray Drying
by Zhe Li, Caiyun Sun, Ping Sun, Lingyu Yang, Qi Yang, Weifeng Zhu, Yongmei Guan, Wenjun Liu and Liangshan Ming
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(9), 1369; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18091369 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 489
Abstract
Objectives: Sen Ling Cao (SLC) is an excellent health food that has health-promoting functions, such as alleviating physical fatigue and boosting immune function. Currently, SLC is predominantly marketed and administered as an oral liquid, which suffers from the disadvantages of inconvenient transport and [...] Read more.
Objectives: Sen Ling Cao (SLC) is an excellent health food that has health-promoting functions, such as alleviating physical fatigue and boosting immune function. Currently, SLC is predominantly marketed and administered as an oral liquid, which suffers from the disadvantages of inconvenient transport and limited versatility. In this study, we investigated the preparation of direct compression (DC) tablets of SLC. Methods: Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E3 (HPMC E3), polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVP K30), hydroxypropyl cellulose EF (HPC EF), and maltodextrin (MD) were selected as modifying agents; and ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) were employed as pore-forming agents. Co-spray drying was utilized to prepare 13 kinds of composite particles with different structures. Subsequently, their physical properties and compacting parameters were characterized comprehensively. Finally, the various composite particles were directly compacted into tablets to study the respective effects on the properties of DC tablets. Results: The results demonstrated that (i) the SLC composite particles have been successfully produced by co-spray drying, and processing involves physical changes; (ii) the tensile strength (TS) values of PCP-SLC-HPMC-NH4HCO3, PCP-SLC-PVP-NaHCO3, PCP-SLC-HPC-NaHCO3, and PCP-SLC-HPMC-NaHCO3 were 9.8, 7.2, 8.3, and 7.7 times higher than that of SLC; (iii) all the modifiers studied could improve the DC properties of problematic SLC to some degree, and the combination of HPMC and NH4HCO3 showed to be the best to markedly improve both the compactibility and flowability of SLC. Conclusions: Overall, the design of porous composite particles, composite particles, and porous composite particles in this study successfully produced qualified tablets with high SLC loadings via DC. These findings are favorable for promoting the development and application of natural botanical tablets through DC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Technology)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Back to TopTop