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
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
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (5,126)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = kinetic evaluation

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
16 pages, 4328 KiB  
Article
High-Throughput Study on Nanoindentation Deformation of Al-Mg-Si Alloys
by Tong Shen, Guanglong Xu, Fuwen Chen, Shuaishuai Zhu and Yuwen Cui
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3663; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153663 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Al-Mg-Si (6XXX) series aluminum alloys are widely applied in aerospace and transportation industries. However, exploring how varying compositions affect alloy properties and deformation mechanisms is often time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the complexity of the multicomponent composition space and the diversity of processing [...] Read more.
Al-Mg-Si (6XXX) series aluminum alloys are widely applied in aerospace and transportation industries. However, exploring how varying compositions affect alloy properties and deformation mechanisms is often time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the complexity of the multicomponent composition space and the diversity of processing and heat treatments. This study, inspired by the Materials Genome Initiative, employs high-throughput experimentation—specifically the kinetic diffusion multiple (KDM) method—to systematically investigate how the pop-in effect, indentation size effect (ISE), and creep behavior vary with the composition of Al-Mg-Si alloys at room temperature. To this end, a 6016/Al-3Si/Al-1.2Mg/Al KDM material was designed and fabricated. After diffusion annealing at 530 °C for 72 h, two junction areas were formed with compositional and microstructural gradients extending over more than one thousand micrometers. Subsequent solution treatment (530 °C for 30 min) and artificial aging (185 °C for 20 min) were applied to simulate industrial processing conditions. Comprehensive characterization using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), nanoindentation with continuous stiffness measurement (CSM), and nanoindentation creep tests across these gradient regions revealed key insights. The results show that increasing Mg and Si content progressively suppresses the pop-in effect. When the alloy composition exceeds 1.0 wt.%, the pop-in events are nearly eliminated due to strong interactions between solute atoms and mobile dislocations. In addition, adjustments in the ISE enabled rapid evaluation of the strengthening contributions from Mg and Si in the microscale compositional array, demonstrating that the optimum strengthening occurs when the Mg-to-Si atomic ratio is approximately 1 under a fixed total alloy content. Furthermore, analysis of the creep stress exponent and activation volume indicated that dislocation motion is the dominant creep mechanism. Overall, this enhanced KDM method proves to be an effective conceptual tool for accelerating the study of composition–deformation relationships in Al-Mg-Si alloys. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 4237 KiB  
Article
Ultra-Stable Anode-Free Na Metal Batteries Enabled by Al2O3-Functionalized Separators
by Han Wang, Yiheng Zhao, Jiaqi Huang, Lu Wang, Canglong Li and Yuejiao Chen
Batteries 2025, 11(8), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries11080297 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The development of anode-free sodium metal batteries (AFSMBs) offers a promising pathway to achieve ultrahigh energy density and cost efficiency inherent to conventional sodium ion/metal batteries. However, irreversible Na plating/stripping and dendritic growth remain critical barriers. Herein, we demonstrate that separator engineering is [...] Read more.
The development of anode-free sodium metal batteries (AFSMBs) offers a promising pathway to achieve ultrahigh energy density and cost efficiency inherent to conventional sodium ion/metal batteries. However, irreversible Na plating/stripping and dendritic growth remain critical barriers. Herein, we demonstrate that separator engineering is a pivotal strategy for stabilizing AFSMBs. Through systematic evaluation of four separators—2500 separator (PP), 2325 separator (PP/PE/PP), glass fiber (GF), and an Al2O3-coated PE membrane, we reveal that the Al2O3-coated separator uniquely enables exceptional interfacial kinetics and morphological control. Na||Na symmetric cells with Al2O3 coated separator exhibit ultralow polarization (4.5 mV) and the highest exchange current density (1.77 × 10−2 mA cm−2), while the anode-free AlC-NFPP full cells retain 91.6% capacity after 150 cycles at 2C. Specifically, the Al2O3 coating homogenizes Na+ flux, promotes dense and planar Na deposition, and facilitates near-complete stripping with minimal “dead Na”. This work establishes ceramic-functionalized separators as essential enablers of practical high-energy AFSMBs. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 6092 KiB  
Article
Biopharmaceutical and Pharmacotechnical Characterization of Plant Powder Tablets Obtained by Direct Compression Process: The Case of Atriplex halimus
by Yacine Nait Bachir, Ramdan Mohamed Said, Nacera Zitouni Terki, Rabea Antar, Mounira Slamani, Dounia Gharbi and Roberta Foligni
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8623; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158623 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The present study aims to develop tablets based on plant powder obtained by direct compression. In this work, the effects of two parameters (the powder particle size and the force of compression) have been studied. Powder from the aerial portion of Atriplex halimus [...] Read more.
The present study aims to develop tablets based on plant powder obtained by direct compression. In this work, the effects of two parameters (the powder particle size and the force of compression) have been studied. Powder from the aerial portion of Atriplex halimus was used as a model. The composition of the powder and its technological properties were determined. A compression process study was carried out, and the macroscopic and pharmacotechnical properties of the resulting tablets were studied. Finally, an in vitro dissolution kinetics study in the absence and presence of digestive enzymes was evaluated. Plant powders, with a particle size between 100 and 500 µm, allowed us to have excellent quality tablets after direct compression with a force of 14 KN. The obtained tablets comply with the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia standards, they have good swelling and erosive properties, and they have shown good structure after observation with a scanning electron microscope. An in vitro dissolution kinetics study of these tablets composed of 100% plant powder showed that maximum dissolution rates are reached after 5 h of dissolution in the absence of digestive enzymes and 3 h in their presence. This result highlights the potential of plant powder administration as a valuable therapeutic strategy. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5000 KiB  
Article
A Study of Methylene Blue Adsorption by a Synergistic Adsorbent Algae (Nostoc sphaericum)/Activated Clay
by Yakov Felipe Carhuarupay-Molleda, Noemí Melisa Ccasa Barboza, Sofía Pastor-Mina, Carlos Eduardo Dueñas Valcarcel, Ybar G. Palomino-Malpartida, Rolando Licapa Redolfo, Antonieta Mojo-Quisani, Miriam Calla-Florez, Rolando F. Aguilar-Salazar, Yovana Flores-Ccorisapra, Arturo Rojas Benites, Edward Arostegui León, David Choque-Quispe and Frida E. Fuentes Bernedo
Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2134; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152134 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Dye residues from the textile industry constitute a critical wastewater problem. This study aimed to evaluate the removal capacity of methylene blue (MB) in aqueous media, using an adsorbent formulated from activated and sonicated nanoclay (NC) and microatomized Nostoc sphaericum (ANS). NC was [...] Read more.
Dye residues from the textile industry constitute a critical wastewater problem. This study aimed to evaluate the removal capacity of methylene blue (MB) in aqueous media, using an adsorbent formulated from activated and sonicated nanoclay (NC) and microatomized Nostoc sphaericum (ANS). NC was obtained by acid treatment, followed by activation with 1 M NaCl and sonication, while ANS was obtained by microatomization in an aqueous medium. NC/ANS was mixed in a 4:1 weight ratio. The NC/ANS synergistic adsorbent was characterized by the point of zero charge (PZC), zeta potential (ζ), particle size, FTIR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). NC/ANS exhibited good colloidal stability, as determined by pHPZC, particle size in the nanometer range, and heterogeneous morphology with functional groups (hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amide), removing between 72.59 and 97.98% from an initial concentration of 10 ppm of MB, for doses of 20 to 30 mg/L of NC/ANS and pH of 5 to 8. Optimal adsorption conditions are achieved at pH 6.8 and 32.9 mg/L of adsorbent NC/ANS. It was observed that the pseudo-first-order (PFO) and pseudo-second-order (PSO) kinetic models best described the adsorption kinetics, indicating a predominance of the physisorption process, with adsorption capacity around 20 mg/g. Isotherm models and thermodynamic parameters of adsorption, ΔS, ΔH, and ΔG, revealed that the adsorption process is spontaneous, favorable, thermodynamically stable, and occurs at the monolayer level, with a regeneration capacity of 90.35 to 37.54% at the fifth cycle. The application of physical activation methods, such as sonication of the clay and microatomization of the algae, allows proposing a novel and alternative synergistic material from organic and inorganic sources that is environmentally friendly and promotes sustainability, with a high capacity to remove cationic dyes in wastewater. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6111 KiB  
Article
Impact of Water Conductivity on the Structure and Swelling Dynamics of E-Beam Cross-Linked Hydrogels
by Elena Mănăilă, Ion Călina, Anca Scărișoreanu, Maria Demeter, Gabriela Crăciun and Marius Dumitru
Gels 2025, 11(8), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11080611 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Prolonged drought and soil degradation severely affect soil fertility and limit crop productivity. Superabsorbent hydrogels offer an effective solution for improving water retention in soil and supporting plant growth. In this work, we examined the performance of superabsorbent hydrogels based on sodium alginate, [...] Read more.
Prolonged drought and soil degradation severely affect soil fertility and limit crop productivity. Superabsorbent hydrogels offer an effective solution for improving water retention in soil and supporting plant growth. In this work, we examined the performance of superabsorbent hydrogels based on sodium alginate, acrylic acid (AA), and poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) cross-linked with 12.5 kGy using e-beam irradiation. The hydrogels were assessed in various aqueous environments by examining network characteristics, swelling capacity, and swelling kinetics to evaluate the impact of water’s electrical conductivity (which ranges from 0.05 to 321 μS/cm). Morphological and chemical structure changes were evaluated using SEM and FTIR techniques. The results demonstrated that water conductivity significantly affected the physicochemical properties of the hydrogels. Swelling behavior showed notable sensitivity to electrical conductivity variations, with swelling degrees reaching 28,400% at 5 μS/cm and 14,000% at 321 μS/cm, following first-order and second-order kinetics. FTIR analysis confirmed that structural modifications correlated with water conductivity, particularly affecting the O–H, C–H, and COOH groups sensitive to the ionic environment. SEM characterization revealed a porous morphology with an interconnected microporous network that facilitates efficient water diffusion. These hydrogels show exceptional swelling capacity and are promising candidates for sustainable agriculture applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2807 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Hydroxyapatite–β-Tricalcium Phosphate Collagen Composites for Socket Preservation in a Canine Model
by Dong Woo Kim, Donghyun Lee, Jaeyoung Ryu, Min-Suk Kook, Hong-Ju Park and Seunggon Jung
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(8), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16080286 - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the performance of three hydroxyapatite–β-tricalcium phosphate (HA–β-TCP) collagen composite grafts in a canine model for extraction socket preservation. Eight mongrel dogs underwent atraumatic bilateral mandibular premolar extraction, and sockets were randomly grafted with HBC28 (20% high-crystalline HA, 80% [...] Read more.
This study aimed to compare the performance of three hydroxyapatite–β-tricalcium phosphate (HA–β-TCP) collagen composite grafts in a canine model for extraction socket preservation. Eight mongrel dogs underwent atraumatic bilateral mandibular premolar extraction, and sockets were randomly grafted with HBC28 (20% high-crystalline HA, 80% β-TCP bovine collagen), HBC37 (30% HA, 70% β-TCP, bovine collagen), or HPC64 (60% HA, 40% β-TCP, porcine collagen). Grafts differed in their HA–β-TCP ratio and collagen origin and content. Animals were sacrificed at 4 and 12 weeks, and the healing sites were evaluated using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histological analysis. At 12 weeks, all groups showed good socket maintenance with comparable new bone formation. However, histological analysis revealed that HBC28 had significantly higher residual graft volume, while HPC64 demonstrated more extensive graft resorption. Histomorphometric analysis confirmed these findings, with statistically significant differences in residual graft area and bone volume fraction. No inflammatory response or adverse tissue reactions were observed in any group. These results suggest that all three HA–β-TCP collagen composites are biocompatible and suitable for socket preservation, with varying resorption kinetics influenced by graft composition. Selection of graft material may thus be guided by the desired rate of replacement by new bone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanical Studies and Biomaterials in Dentistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2605 KiB  
Article
Production of Bioadsorbents via Low-Temperature Pyrolysis of Exhausted Olive Pomace for the Removal of Methylene Blue from Aqueous Media
by Safae Chafi, Manuel Cuevas-Aranda, Mª Lourdes Martínez-Cartas and Sebastián Sánchez
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3254; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153254 - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
In this work, biochars were produced by pyrolysis of exhausted olive pomace and evaluated as low-cost adsorbents for the removal of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solutions. The biochar obtained at 400 °C for 1 h, which exhibited the best adsorption performance, was [...] Read more.
In this work, biochars were produced by pyrolysis of exhausted olive pomace and evaluated as low-cost adsorbents for the removal of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solutions. The biochar obtained at 400 °C for 1 h, which exhibited the best adsorption performance, was characterized by FTIR, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, SEM-EDX, and proximate analysis, revealing a mesoporous structure with a relatively low specific surface area but enriched in surface functional groups, likely due to the partial degradation of lignocellulosic components. Adsorption experiments were conducted to optimize operational parameters such as solid particle size (2–3 mm), agitation speed (75 rpm), and bioadsorbent dosage (1 g per 0.05 L of MB solution), which allowed for dye removal efficiencies close to 100%. Kinetic studies showed that MB adsorption followed a pseudo-second-order model, while equilibrium data at 30 °C were best described by the Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 0.999; SE = 4.25%), suggesting monolayer coverage and strong adsorbate–adsorbent affinity. Desorption trials using water, ethanol, and their mixtures resulted in low MB recovery, whereas the addition of 10% acetic acid significantly improved desorption performance. Under optimal conditions, up to 52% of the retained dye was recovered. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomass Chemicals: Transformation and Valorization)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

24 pages, 1451 KiB  
Article
Significance of Time-Series Consistency in Evaluating Machine Learning Models for Gap-Filling Multi-Level Very Tall Tower Data
by Changhyoun Park
Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2025, 7(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/make7030076 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Machine learning modeling is a valuable tool for gap-filling or prediction, and its performance is typically evaluated using standard metrics. To enable more precise assessments for time-series data, this study emphasizes the importance of considering time-series consistency, which can be evaluated through amplitude—specifically, [...] Read more.
Machine learning modeling is a valuable tool for gap-filling or prediction, and its performance is typically evaluated using standard metrics. To enable more precise assessments for time-series data, this study emphasizes the importance of considering time-series consistency, which can be evaluated through amplitude—specifically, the interquartile range and the lower bound of the band in gap-filled time series. To test this hypothesis, a gap-filling technique was applied using long-term (~6 years) high-frequency flux and meteorological data collected at four different levels (1.5, 60, 140, and 300 m above sea level) on a ~300 m tall flux tower. This study focused on turbulent kinetic energy among several variables, which is important for estimating sensible and latent heat fluxes and net ecosystem exchange. Five ensemble machine learning algorithms were selected and trained on three different datasets. Among several modeling scenarios, the stacking model with a dataset combined with derivative data produced the best metrics for predicting turbulent kinetic energy. Although the metrics before and after gap-filling reported fewer differences among the scenarios, large distortions were found in the consistency of the time series in terms of amplitude. These findings underscore the importance of evaluating time-series consistency alongside traditional metrics, not only to accurately assess modeling performance but also to ensure reliability in downstream applications such as forecasting, climate modeling, and energy estimation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Data)
24 pages, 6855 KiB  
Article
Estimation of the Kinetic Coefficient of Friction of Asphalt Pavements Using the Top Topography Surface Roughness Power Spectrum
by Bo Sun, Haoyuan Luo, Yibo Rong and Yanqin Yang
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3643; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153643 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study proposes a method for estimating the kinetic coefficient of friction (COF) for asphalt pavements by improving and applying Persson’s friction theory. The method utilizes the power spectral density (PSD) of the top surface topography instead of the full PSD to better [...] Read more.
This study proposes a method for estimating the kinetic coefficient of friction (COF) for asphalt pavements by improving and applying Persson’s friction theory. The method utilizes the power spectral density (PSD) of the top surface topography instead of the full PSD to better reflect the actual contact conditions. This approach avoids including deeper roughness components that do not contribute to real rubber–pavement contact due to surface skewness. The key aspect of the method is determining an appropriate cutting plane to isolate the top surface. Four cutting strategies were evaluated. Results show that the cutting plane defined at 0.5 times the root mean square (RMS) height exhibits the highest robustness across all pavement types, with the estimated COF closely matching the measured values for all four tested surfaces. This study presents an improved method for estimating the kinetic coefficient of friction (COF) of asphalt pavements by employing the power spectral density (PSD) of the top surface roughness, rather than the total surface profile. This refinement is based on Persson’s friction theory and aims to exclude the influence of deep surface irregularities that do not make actual contact with the rubber interface. The core of the method lies in defining an appropriate cutting plane to isolate the topographical features that contribute most to frictional interactions. Four cutting strategies were investigated. Among them, the cutting plane positioned at 0.5 times the root mean square (RMS) height demonstrated the best overall applicability. COF estimates derived from this method showed strong consistency with experimentally measured values across all four tested asphalt pavement surfaces, indicating its robustness and practical potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Building Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1561 KiB  
Article
The Effect of a Pectin Coating with Gamma-Decalactone on Selected Quality Attributes of Strawberries During Refrigerated Storage
by Gabriela Kozakiewicz, Jolanta Małajowicz, Karolina Szulc, Magdalena Karwacka, Agnieszka Ciurzyńska, Anna Żelazko, Monika Janowicz and Sabina Galus
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080903 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 66
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of an apple pectin coating enriched with gamma-decalactone (GDL) on the physicochemical and microbiological quality of strawberries over 9 days of refrigerated storage. Strawberries were coated with pectin solutions containing a plasticizer and emulsifier, with or without GDL, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effect of an apple pectin coating enriched with gamma-decalactone (GDL) on the physicochemical and microbiological quality of strawberries over 9 days of refrigerated storage. Strawberries were coated with pectin solutions containing a plasticizer and emulsifier, with or without GDL, and compared to uncoated controls. The coatings were evaluated for their effects on fruit mass loss, pH, extract content (°Brix), firmness, color parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, h*, ΔE), and microbial spoilage. The pectin coating limited changes in extract, pH, and color and slowed firmness loss. Notably, GDL-enriched coatings significantly reduced spoilage (14.29% after 9 days vs. 57.14% in the control) despite accelerating pulp softening. Extract content increased the most in the GDL group (from 9.92 to 12.00 °Brix), while mass loss reached up to 22.8%. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) confirmed coating type as a major factor differentiating sample quality over time. These findings demonstrate the potential of bioactive pectin-based coatings to enhance fruit preservation and support the development of active packaging strategies. Further studies should optimize coating composition and control the release kinetics of functional compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Applications of Bio-Based Polymer Coatings)
Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 5771 KiB  
Article
Photobiomodulation of 450 nm Blue Light on Human Keratinocytes, Fibroblasts, and Endothelial Cells: An In Vitro and Transcriptomic Study on Cells Involved in Wound Healing and Angiogenesis
by Jingbo Shao, Sophie Clément, Christoph Reissfelder, Patrick Téoule, Norbert Gretz, Feng Guo, Sabina Hajizada, Stefanie Uhlig, Katharina Mößinger, Carolina de la Torre, Carsten Sticht, Vugar Yagublu and Michael Keese
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1876; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081876 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 102
Abstract
Background: Blue light (BL) irradiation has been shown to induce photobiomodulation (PBM) in cells. Here, we investigate its influence on cell types involved in wound healing. Methods: Cellular responses of immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaTs), normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs), and human [...] Read more.
Background: Blue light (BL) irradiation has been shown to induce photobiomodulation (PBM) in cells. Here, we investigate its influence on cell types involved in wound healing. Methods: Cellular responses of immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaTs), normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs), and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) after light treatment at 450 nm were analyzed by kinetic assays on cell viability, proliferation, ATP quantification, migration assay, and apoptosis assay. Gene expression was evaluated by transcriptome analysis. Results: A biphasic effect was observed on HaCaTs, NHDFs, and HUVECs. Low-fluence (4.5 J/cm2) irradiation stimulated cell viability, proliferation, and migration. mRNA sequencing indicated involvement of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), ErbB, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways. High-fluence (18 J/cm2) irradiation inhibited these cellular activities by downregulating DNA replication, the cell cycle, and mismatch repair pathways. Conclusions: HaCaTs, NHDFs, and HUVECs exhibited a dose-dependent pattern after BL irradiation. These findings broaden the view of PBM following BL irradiation of these three cell types, thereby promoting their potential application in wound healing and angiogenesis. Our data on low-fluence BL at 450 nm indicates clinical potential for a novel modality in wound therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1883 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Biofilm Formation Kinetics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli on Medical-Grade Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) and Polyamide 12 (PA12) Polymers
by Susana Carbajal-Ocaña, Kristeel Ximena Franco-Gómez, Valeria Atehortúa-Benítez, Daniela Mendoza-Lozano, Luis Vicente Prado-Cervantes, Luis J. Melgoza-Ramírez, Miguel Delgado-Rodríguez, Mariana E. Elizondo-García and Jorge Membrillo-Hernández
Hygiene 2025, 5(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/hygiene5030032 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 148
Abstract
Biofilms, structured communities of microorganisms encased in an extracellular matrix, are a major cause of persistent infections, particularly when formed on medical devices. This study investigated the kinetics of biofilm formation by Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, two clinically significant pathogens, on [...] Read more.
Biofilms, structured communities of microorganisms encased in an extracellular matrix, are a major cause of persistent infections, particularly when formed on medical devices. This study investigated the kinetics of biofilm formation by Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, two clinically significant pathogens, on two medical-grade polymers: polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and polyamide 12 (PA12). Using a modified crystal violet staining method and spectrophotometric quantification, we evaluated biofilm development over time on polymer granules and catheter segments composed of these materials. Results revealed that PEEK surfaces supported significantly more biofilm formation than PA12, with peak accumulation observed at 24 h for both pathogens. Conversely, PA12 demonstrated reduced bacterial adhesion and lower biofilm biomass, suggesting surface characteristics less conducive to microbial colonization. Additionally, the study validated a reproducible protocol for assessing biofilm formation, providing a foundation for evaluating anti-biofilm strategies. While the assays were performed under static in vitro conditions, the findings highlight the importance of material selection and early prevention strategies in the design of infection-resistant medical devices. This work contributes to the understanding of how surface properties affect microbial adhesion and underscores the critical need for innovative surface modifications or coatings to mitigate biofilm-related healthcare risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Hygiene in Healthcare Facilities)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2188 KiB  
Article
Rational Engineering of a Brevinin-2 Peptide: Decoupling Potency from Toxicity Through C-Terminal Truncation and N-Terminal Chiral Substitution
by Aifang Yao, Zeyu Zhang, Zhengmin Song, Yi Yuan, Xiaoling Chen, Chengbang Ma, Tianbao Chen, Chris Shaw, Mei Zhou and Lei Wang
Antibiotics 2025, 14(8), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14080784 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 63
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The clinical potential of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) against dual threats like antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and cancer is often limited by their high host cell toxicity. Here, we focused on brevinin-2OS (B2OS), a novel peptide from the skin of Odorrana schmackeri with [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The clinical potential of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) against dual threats like antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and cancer is often limited by their high host cell toxicity. Here, we focused on brevinin-2OS (B2OS), a novel peptide from the skin of Odorrana schmackeri with potent haemolytic activity. The objective was to study the structure–activity relationship and optimise the safety via targeted modifications. Methods: A dual-modification strategy involving C-terminal truncation and subsequent N-terminal D-amino acid substitution was employed. The bioactivities and safety profiles of the resulting analogues were evaluated using antimicrobial, haemolysis, and cytotoxicity assays. Result: Removal of the rana box in B2OS(1-22)-NH2 substantially reduced haemolysis while maintaining bioactivities. Remarkably, the D-leucine substitution in [D-Leu2]B2OS(1-22)-NH2 displayed a superior HC50 value of 118.1 µM, representing a more than ten-fold improvement compared to its parent peptide (HC50 of 10.44 µM). This optimised analogue also demonstrated faster bactericidal kinetics and enhanced membrane permeabilisation, leading to a greater than 22-fold improvement in its therapeutic index against Gram-positive bacteria. Conclusions: The C-terminal rana box is a primary determinant of toxicity rather than a requirement for activity in the B2OS scaffold. The engineered peptide [D-Leu2]B2OS(1-22)-NH2 emerges as a promising lead compound, and this dual-modification strategy provides a powerful design principle for developing safer, more effective peptide-based therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Antimicrobial Peptides)
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3023 KiB  
Article
Improving Grain Safety Using Radiation Dose Technologies
by Raushangul Uazhanova, Meruyert Ametova, Zhanar Nabiyeva, Igor Danko, Gulzhan Kurtibayeva, Kamilya Tyutebayeva, Aruzhan Khamit, Dana Myrzamet, Ece Sogut and Maxat Toishimanov
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151669 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 165
Abstract
Reducing post-harvest losses of cereal crops is a key challenge for ensuring global food security amid the limited arable land and growing population. This study investigates the effectiveness of electron beam irradiation (5 MeV, ILU-10 accelerator) as a physical decontamination method for various [...] Read more.
Reducing post-harvest losses of cereal crops is a key challenge for ensuring global food security amid the limited arable land and growing population. This study investigates the effectiveness of electron beam irradiation (5 MeV, ILU-10 accelerator) as a physical decontamination method for various cereal crops cultivated in Kazakhstan. Samples were irradiated at doses ranging from 1 to 5 kGy, and microbiological indicators—including Quantity of Mesophilic Aerobic and Facultative Anaerobic Microorganisms (QMAFAnM), yeasts, and molds—were quantified according to national standards. Experimental results demonstrated an exponential decline in microbial contamination, with a >99% reduction achieved at doses of 4–5 kGy. The modeled inactivation kinetics showed strong agreement with the experimental data: R2 = 0.995 for QMAFAnM and R2 = 0.948 for mold, confirming the reliability of the exponential decay models. Additionally, key quality parameters—including protein content, moisture, and gluten—were evaluated post-irradiation. The results showed that protein levels remained largely stable across all doses, while slight but statistically insignificant fluctuations were observed in moisture and gluten contents. Principal component analysis and scatterplot matrix visualization confirmed clustering patterns related to radiation dose and crop type. The findings substantiate the feasibility of electron beam treatment as a scalable and safe technology for improving the microbiological quality and storage stability of cereal crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Product Quality and Safety)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4427 KiB  
Article
Mechanistic Insights into m-Cresol Adsorption on Functional Resins: Surface Chemistry and Adsorption Behavior
by Yali Wang, Zhenrui Wang, Zile Liu, Xiyue He and Zequan Zeng
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3628; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153628 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 102
Abstract
The removal of high-concentration m-cresol from industrial wastewater remains a significant challenge due to its toxicity and persistence. In this study, a commercially available functionalized resin with a high BET surface area (1439 m2 g−1) and hierarchical pore structure was [...] Read more.
The removal of high-concentration m-cresol from industrial wastewater remains a significant challenge due to its toxicity and persistence. In this study, a commercially available functionalized resin with a high BET surface area (1439 m2 g−1) and hierarchical pore structure was employed for the adsorption of pure m-cresol at an initial concentration of 20 g L−1, representative of coal-based industrial effluents. Comprehensive characterization confirmed the presence of oxygen-rich functional groups, amorphous polymeric structure, and uniform surface morphology conducive to adsorption. Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of resin dosage, contact time, temperature, and equilibrium concentration. Under optimized conditions (0.15 g resin, 60 °C), a maximum adsorption capacity of 556.3 mg g−1 and removal efficiency of 71% were achieved. Kinetic analysis revealed that the pseudo-second-order model best described the adsorption process (R2 > 0.99). Isotherm data fit the Langmuir model most closely (R2 = 0.9953), yielding a monolayer capacity of 833.3 mg g−1. Thermodynamic analysis showed that adsorption was spontaneous (ΔG° < 0), endothermic (ΔH° = 7.553 kJ mol−1), and accompanied by increased entropy (ΔS° = 29.90 J mol−1 K−1). The good agreement with the PSO model is indicative of chemisorption, as supported by other lines of evidence, including thermodynamic parameters (e.g., positive ΔH° and ΔS°), surface functional group characteristics, and molecular interactions. The adsorption mechanism was elucidated through comprehensive modeling of adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics, combined with detailed physicochemical characterization of the resin prior to adsorption, reinforcing the mechanistic understanding of m-cresol–resin interactions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop