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Search Results (266)

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Keywords = solvent uptake

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22 pages, 1556 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Performance of Passive Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Samplers for Indoor Air
by John H. Zimmerman, Brian Schumacher, Christopher C. Lutes, Brian Cosky and Heidi Hayes
Environments 2025, 12(8), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12080267 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 235
Abstract
The reliability of passive samplers in measuring volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air depends on whether the uptake rate is constant given the environmental conditions and sampler exposure duration. The first phase of this study evaluated the performance of charcoal-based, solvent-extracted passive [...] Read more.
The reliability of passive samplers in measuring volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air depends on whether the uptake rate is constant given the environmental conditions and sampler exposure duration. The first phase of this study evaluated the performance of charcoal-based, solvent-extracted passive samplers (e.g., Radiello® 130 passive samplers with white diffusive bodies) over exposure periods ranging from 1 week to 1 year in a test house with known vapor intrusion (VI). Chloroform %Bias values exceeded the ±30% acceptance criterion after 4 weeks exposure. Benzene, hexane, and trichloroethylene (TCE) concentrations were within the acceptance criterion for up to three months. Toluene and tetrachloroethylene (PCE), the two least volatile compounds, demonstrated uniform uptake rates over one year. In the second phase of this study, testing of the longer exposure times of 6 months and 1 year were evaluated with three additional passive samplers: Waterloo Membrane SamplerTM (WMSTM), SKC 575 with secondary diffusive cover, and Radiello® 130 passive samplers with yellow diffusive bodies. The SKC 575 and Radiello® 130 passive samplers produced acceptable results (%Bias ≤ 30%) over the 6-month exposure period, while the WMSTM sampler results favored petroleum hydrocarbon more than chlorinated solvent uptake. After the 1-year exposure period, the passive sampler performances were acceptable under specific conditions of this study. The results suggest that all three samplers can produce acceptable results over exposure time periods beyond 30 days and up to a year for some compounds. Full article
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22 pages, 1793 KiB  
Article
Formulation and Functional Characterization of a Cannabidiol-Loaded Nanoemulsion in Canine Mammary Carcinoma Cells
by Francisca J. Medina, Guillermo Velasco, María G. Villamizar-Sarmiento, Cristian G. Torres and Felipe A. Oyarzun-Ampuero
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080970 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 744
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mammary carcinoma is a common disease in female dogs. Cannabidiol (CBD) can inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in human cancer cells. However, its low solubility in aqueous media requires solvents such as ethanol or dimethylsulfoxide that limit their dosage. Incorporating [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Mammary carcinoma is a common disease in female dogs. Cannabidiol (CBD) can inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in human cancer cells. However, its low solubility in aqueous media requires solvents such as ethanol or dimethylsulfoxide that limit their dosage. Incorporating CBD into oil-in-water nanoemulsions (Nem) can improve its aqueous dispersibility. This study aimed to develop a CBD-Nem formulation and evaluate its effects on canine mammary cancer cell lines (CF41.Mg and IPC366) and non-cancer cells (MDCK). Methods: CBD-Nem was prepared with Miglyol 812 oil and Epikuron 145 V as the surfactant, and was characterized by analyzing size, morphology, zeta potential, release profile, and uptake/internalization. Moreover, the antitumor effects of CBD-Nem were evaluated in cancer cells through viability, proliferation, cell cycle, and migration–invasion assays. Results: CBD-Nem exhibited a monodisperse nanometric population (~150 nm), spherical shape, and negative zeta potential (~−50 mV). The in vitro release kinetics showed slow and sustained delivery at both pH 5.5 and pH 7.4. Rhodamine-Nem, as a fluorescent model of CBD-Nem, was taken up and homogenously internalized in CF41.Mg cells. CBD-Nem decreased the viability of cancer cells with a maximum effect at 50 µM and showed a lower toxicity in MDCK cells. Long-term efficacy (20 days) was evidenced by CBD-Nem at inhibiting colony formation in cancer cells. Furthermore, CBD-Nem reduced the proportion of cells in the G2-M phase, induced apoptosis, and inhibited the migration and invasion of CF41.Mg cells. Conclusions: CBD-Nem exhibited an in vitro antitumor effect, which supports its study in dogs with mammary carcinoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Its Derivatives)
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18 pages, 8171 KiB  
Article
Improving the Treatment of Brain Gliomas Through Small-Particle-Size Paclitaxel-Loaded Micelles with a High Safety Profile
by Bohan Chen, Liming Gong, Jing Feng, MongHsiu Song, Mingji Jin, Liqing Chen, Zhonggao Gao and Wei Huang
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080965 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Paclitaxel (PTX) is widely used in the treatment of a variety of solid tumours due to its broad-spectrum anti-tumour activity, but its use in brain gliomas is limited by insufficient blood–brain tumour barrier (BBTB) penetration and systemic toxicity. The aim of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Paclitaxel (PTX) is widely used in the treatment of a variety of solid tumours due to its broad-spectrum anti-tumour activity, but its use in brain gliomas is limited by insufficient blood–brain tumour barrier (BBTB) penetration and systemic toxicity. The aim of this study was to develop a Solutol HS-15-based micellar nanoparticle (PSM) to enhance the brain glioma targeting of PTX and reduce toxicity. Methods: PSMs were prepared by solvent injection and characterised for particle size, encapsulation rate, haemolysis rate and in vitro release properties. A C6 in situ glioma mouse model was used to assess the brain targeting and anti-tumour effects of the PSM by in vivo imaging, tissue homogenate fluorescence analysis and bioluminescence monitoring. Meanwhile, its safety was evaluated by weight monitoring, serum biochemical indexes and histopathological analysis. Results: The particle size of PSMs was 13.45 ± 0.70 nm, with an encapsulation rate of 96.39%, and it demonstrated excellent cellular uptake. In tumour-bearing mice, PSMs significantly enhanced brain tumour targeting with a brain drug concentration 5.94 times higher than that of free PTX. Compared with Taxol, PSMs significantly inhibited tumour growth (terminal luminescence intensity <1 × 106 p/s/cm2/Sr) and did not cause significant liver or kidney toxicity or body weight loss. Conclusions: PSMs achieve an efficient accumulation of brain gliomas through passive targeting and EPR effects while significantly reducing the systemic toxicity of PTX. Its simple preparation process and excellent therapeutic efficacy support its use as a potential clinically translational candidate for glioma treatment. Full article
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17 pages, 16101 KiB  
Article
A Poly(Acrylic Acid)-Based Hydrogel Crosslinked with Hydroxypropylcellulose as a Clarifying Agent in Nickel(II) Solutions
by Rubén Octavio Muñoz-García, Cesar Alexis Ruiz-Casillas, Diego Alberto Lomelí-Rosales, Jorge Alberto Cortés-Ortega, Juan Carlos Sánchez-Díaz and Luis Emilio Cruz-Barba
Gels 2025, 11(7), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11070560 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 293
Abstract
Poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) hydrogels were synthesized in the absence of a crosslinker. Chemical crosslinking between PAA and HPC was demonstrated through free radical polymerization by a precipitation reaction in acetone as the solvent. These hydrogels exhibited smaller swelling ratios (1 [...] Read more.
Poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) hydrogels were synthesized in the absence of a crosslinker. Chemical crosslinking between PAA and HPC was demonstrated through free radical polymerization by a precipitation reaction in acetone as the solvent. These hydrogels exhibited smaller swelling ratios (1 to 5 g H2O/g) than homo PAA hydrogels synthesized in water as the solvent. They were swollen in a 0.1 M NaOH solution and subsequently used to remove Ni2+ ions from aqueous solutions with concentrations ranging from 1000 to 4000 ppm. The absorption capacity of these hydrogels ranged from 91 to 340 mg of Ni2+/g in a rapid 1 h process, and from 122 to 435 mg of Ni2+/g in a 24 h process, demonstrating an improvement in Ni2+ absorption compared to previously reported hydrogels. The colored 1000 and 2000 ppm Ni2+ solutions became clear after treatment, while the PAA-HPC hydrogels turned green due to the uptake of Ni2+ ions, which were partially chelated by carboxylate groups as nickel polyacrylate and partially precipitated as Ni(OH)2, resulting in an average absorption efficiency of 80%. The hydrogel was able to release the absorbed Ni2+ upon immersion in an HCl solution, with an average release percentage of 76.4%, indicating its potential for reuse. These findings support the use of PAA-HPC hydrogels for cleaning Ni2+-polluted water. The cost of producing 1 g of these hydrogels in laboratory conditions is approximately 0.2 USD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellulose-Based Gels: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications)
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16 pages, 2358 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Polycaprolactone with Levulinic Acid-Extracted Lignin: Toward Sustainable Bio-Based Polymer Blends
by Elodie Melro, Hugo Duarte, Filipe E. Antunes, Artur J. M. Valente, Anabela Romano and Bruno Medronho
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(7), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9070366 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 249
Abstract
The growing demand for sustainable materials has intensified the search for biodegradable polymers. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), though biodegradable, is fossil-derived. In this study, a novel lignin extracted from pine wood using a green solvent was incorporated into PCL and compared with commercial lignins (dealkaline, [...] Read more.
The growing demand for sustainable materials has intensified the search for biodegradable polymers. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), though biodegradable, is fossil-derived. In this study, a novel lignin extracted from pine wood using a green solvent was incorporated into PCL and compared with commercial lignins (dealkaline, alkaline, and lignosulfonate). The lignin additions imparted antioxidant properties, enhanced thermal stability, and promoted circular economy goals through lignin valorization. Notably, the green-extracted lignin showed superior compatibility with PCL when compared with commercial lignins, as evidenced by lower water uptake and solubility, and improved surface hydrophobicity (higher contact angle). Although the addition of lignin reduced the tensile strength and elongation at break, it greatly increased the PCL radical scavenging activity (DPPH) from 8 ± 1% of neat PCL to 94.8 ± 0.3% when 20 wt% of lignin-LA was added. Among the tested lignins, lignin-LA stands out as the most promising candidate to be applied as a functional additive in biodegradable polymer blends and composites for advanced sustainable applications. Not only given its intrinsically higher sustainability but also due to its capacity for improving the thermal properties of PCL–lignin blends. Full article
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25 pages, 2691 KiB  
Article
Bioplastic Production Using Natural Extracts with Cellulose Assisted by Experimental and Computational Screening
by Lizbeth Zamora-Mendoza, Jhonny Caicho, José R. Mora, Daniela Negrete-Bolagay, Victor H. Guerrero, Noroska G. S. Mogollón, Melanie Ochoa-Ocampo, Jefferson Pastuña-Fasso, José F. Álvarez Barreto, Sebastián Ponce, Juan Paredes, Henry Erazo, Patricia I. Pontón, Marco León and Frank Alexis
Molecules 2025, 30(13), 2752; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30132752 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 540
Abstract
The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials has prompted intensive research into developing bioplastics as viable alternatives to conventional petroleum-derived plastics. Here, we report a novel approach to bioplastic production by employing plant extract-based solvents to partially dissolve cellulose, a fundamental [...] Read more.
The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials has prompted intensive research into developing bioplastics as viable alternatives to conventional petroleum-derived plastics. Here, we report a novel approach to bioplastic production by employing plant extract-based solvents to partially dissolve cellulose, a fundamental biopolymer precursor. Using plant-derived solvents addresses concerns surrounding the environmental impact of traditional solvent-based processes, as per the principles of green chemistry. Using computational screening, some natural products were identified from the integrated database resource MEGx. Six natural sources were selected based on their molecular weight, high pKa, and chemical classification. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and column chromatography confirmed the presence of molecules in the extracts. Bioplastics were prepared with 1, 3, 6, 10, and 15 wt.% plant extract concentrations. Control samples without conventional dissolved and positive controls were also studied to compare their properties with novel bioplastics. Chemical characterization and biodegradability tests were performed. Degradation in water and soil tests for 35 days showed that the biodegradability of the bioplastics with natural extracts at higher concentrations was faster than that of the control samples. By day 35, bioplastics containing 15 wt.% of the D1 W extract showed rapid degradation, with higher weight loss compared with the conventional controls. The positive control (C4), containing NaOH and glycerol, degraded more slowly than the plant extract-based formulations. Also, the test indicated that the natural dissolvent’s influence on the water uptake of the material produced a better performance than the control samples. The surfaces of the bioplastic formulations were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at different magnifications. The findings presented here hold promise for advancing the field of bioplastics and contributing to the sustainable utilization of plant resources for eco-friendly material production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Polymer Materials Based on Lignocellulosic Biomass)
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19 pages, 4208 KiB  
Article
Plant-Derived Nanovesicles from Soaked Rice Water: A Novel and Sustainable Platform for the Delivery of Natural Anti-Oxidant γ-Oryzanol
by Jahnavi Ravilla, Soundaram Rajendran, Vidya M. Basavaraj, Greeshma Satheeshan, Janakiraman Narayanan, Thejaswini Venkatesh and Gopinath M. Sundaram
Antioxidants 2025, 14(6), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14060717 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 913
Abstract
Gamma oryzanol (GO) is a natural anti-oxidant found in rice bran with potential health benefits. Conventional isolation of GO from rice bran requires the use of non-eco-friendly solvents such as acetone, ethyl acetate and hexane due to its low aqueous solubility. Further, nanoencapsulation [...] Read more.
Gamma oryzanol (GO) is a natural anti-oxidant found in rice bran with potential health benefits. Conventional isolation of GO from rice bran requires the use of non-eco-friendly solvents such as acetone, ethyl acetate and hexane due to its low aqueous solubility. Further, nanoencapsulation of GO is required for the enhancement of stability and bioavailability. Plant-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs) are natural/intrinsic exosome-mimetic vesicles isolated from edible plants using green methods. Washed/soaked rice water (SRW) is often discarded as waste prior to cooking rice. However, traditional knowledge indicates its health-promoting anti-oxidant benefit, probably contributed by the presence of GO. Herein, for the first time, we isolated PDNVs from SRW by the cost-effective Polyethylene glycol 6000(PEG) precipitation method and demonstrated the presence of GO in PDNVs. In our initial screen, PDNVs were isolated from both rice grains (RGs) as well as the SRW of four different rice varieties, in which we identified the copious presence of GO in black RGs and brown SRW PDNVs. Both RG and SRW PDNVs were non-toxic to keratinocytes. SRW PDNVs displayed distinct cellular uptake mechanisms compared to RG PDNVs in human keratinocytes. Compared to native GO, brown SRW PDNVs containing GO displayed superior anti-oxidant activity in HaCaT keratinocytes, likely due to its enhanced cellular uptake. Overall, we describe here a waste-to-wealth green approach using an economical PEG method for the extraction of GO in bioavailable form. Given that oxidative stress is a driving factor for inflammation and related diseases, SRW PDNVs provide an affordable natural formulation for the treatment of diseases with underlying oxidative stress and inflammation. Full article
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17 pages, 1694 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Bioconversion of Crude Glycerol into Butanol and 1,3-Propanediol After Pretreatment by Coupling Fermentation and In Situ Recovery: Effect of Initial pH Control
by Alejandro Ortega, Alejo Valles, Miguel Capilla, Carmen Gabaldón, Francisco Javier Álvarez-Hornos and Paula Marzal
Fermentation 2025, 11(6), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11060339 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 676
Abstract
The sharp rise in the worldwide production of biodiesel has created an excess in the crude glycerol market, so it is essential to develop new added-value alternatives for crude glycerol. This paper describes a study on fermenting high concentrations of two types of [...] Read more.
The sharp rise in the worldwide production of biodiesel has created an excess in the crude glycerol market, so it is essential to develop new added-value alternatives for crude glycerol. This paper describes a study on fermenting high concentrations of two types of medium-pure crude glycerol to solvents by Clostridium pasteurianum. The effect of media composition (iron, yeast extract, and vitamins) on solvents production was assessed by a full factorial design with pure glycerol. Granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorption was highly effective in removing impurities from crude glycerol. Following GAC pretreatment, fermentation of glycerol at initial concentration as high as 60 g L−1 was possible, resulting in a butanol production of ~9 g L−1. Based on these results, a batch fermentation with in situ gas stripping and pH controlled at ≥6.5 was shown to be the best alternative to enhance biomass growth, glycerol uptake, and solvent production. The combination of controlling pH in the early stages of fermentation with in situ butanol removal stabilised the metabolism of the strain and showed that the fermentation performance with crude glycerol is very similar to that of pure glycerol. With a notable uptake of glycerol (>83%), solvent production was >11 g L−1 butanol (yield > 0.21 g g−1glycerol consumed) and >6 g L−1 1,3-propanediol (yield > 0.13 g g−1glycerol consumed). Setting the fermentation conditions to achieve a high uptake of high levels of glycerol with a similar product distribution is of great interest for the viability of the industrial processing of crude glycerol into chemicals via biological conversion. Full article
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17 pages, 1804 KiB  
Article
Difenoconazole-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation
by Yinghong Li, Hu Zhang, Tingting Meng, Yuqin Zhou, Beilei Zhou, Shihan Du, Hong Yuan and Fuqiang Hu
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(6), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18060780 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 547
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Difenoconazole (DFC) is a broad-spectrum fungicide. However, its application is limited due to poor aqueous solubility. Drugs with low solubility can be better absorbed using nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). Hence, the application of DFC in an NLC delivery system is proposed. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Difenoconazole (DFC) is a broad-spectrum fungicide. However, its application is limited due to poor aqueous solubility. Drugs with low solubility can be better absorbed using nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). Hence, the application of DFC in an NLC delivery system is proposed. Methods: Difenoconazole-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (DFC-NLCs) with different solid–liquid lipid ratios were prepared by solvent diffusion method. Key physicochemical parameters, including particle diameter, surface charge (zeta potential), drug encapsulation efficiency, and morphological characteristics, were systematically characterized. Using Rhizoctonia solani (R. solani) as the model strain, inhibitory efficiency of DFC-NLC dispersion was compared with that of commercial dosage forms, such as 25% DFC emulsifiable concentrate (DFC-EC) and 40% DFC suspension concentrate (DFC-SC). Additionally, uptakes of DFC-NLC dispersions in R. solani were further observed by fluorescence probe technology. The safety profiles of DFC-NLCs and commercial dosage forms were evaluated using zebrafish as the model organism. Acute toxicity studies were conducted to determine the maximum non-lethal concentration (MNLC) and 10% lethal concentration (LC10). Developmental toxicity studies were performed to observe toxic phenotypes. Results: DFC-NLC dispersions were in the nanometer range (≈200 nm) with high zeta potential, spherical in shape with encapsulation efficiency 69.1 ± 1.8%~95.0 ± 2.6%, and drug loading 7.1 ± 0.3%~9.7 ± 0.6% determined by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Compared with commercial dosage forms, the antifungal effect of the DFC-NLC on R. solani was significantly improved in in vitro antibacterial experiments (p < 0.05). The 50% effective concentration (EC50) values were 0.107 mg·L−1 (DFC-NLC), 0.211 mg·L−1 (DFC-EC), and 0.321 mg·L−1 (DFC-SC), respectively. The uptakes of FITC-labeled DFC-NLC demonstrated that an NLC was appropriate to deliver DFC into pathogen to enhance the target effect. In safety assessment studies, DFC-NLCs exhibited a superior safety profile compared with commercial formulations (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study investigates the feasibility of NLCs as delivery systems for poorly water-soluble fungicides, demonstrating their ability to enhance antifungal efficacy and reduce environmental risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Technology)
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15 pages, 9135 KiB  
Article
Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL) of Lignin: The Adsorption Separation of Catechol Guaiacol and Phenol
by Emmanuel Bala, Ursel Hornung and Nicolaus Dahmen
Energies 2025, 18(9), 2181; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18092181 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 414
Abstract
The complex nature of the hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of lignin product downstream requires an effective separation strategy. In this study, the use of adsorption separation was undertaken using deep eutectic solvent (DES)-modified amberlite XAD-4 adsorbents to achieve this goal. XAD-4 was modified with [...] Read more.
The complex nature of the hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of lignin product downstream requires an effective separation strategy. In this study, the use of adsorption separation was undertaken using deep eutectic solvent (DES)-modified amberlite XAD-4 adsorbents to achieve this goal. XAD-4 was modified with a choline chloride: ethylene glycol DES and characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) test. In addition, the HTL product was characterized using Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID). The performance of unmodified and DES-modified adsorbents was initially tested on the model compounds of guaiacol, phenol and catechol, followed by the HTL product in a batch adsorption system. The Freundlich model best described the model compound adsorption system with a preferential affinity for guaiacol (kf = 12.52), outperforming phenol and catechol. Adsorption experiments showed an increase in capacity and selectivity for all species when the DES-modified adsorbents were used at all mass loadings. GC-FID analytics showed the DES-modified XAD-4 (300 mg) as having the highest selectivity for guaiacol, with an equilibrium concentration of 121.45 mg/L representing an 85.25% uptake, while catechol was the least favorably adsorbed. These results demonstrate the potential of DES-functionalized XAD-4 adsorbents in selectively isolating high-value aromatics from the HTL of the lignin product stream. Full article
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15 pages, 6656 KiB  
Article
Preparation of ZIF-67@PAN Nanofibers for CO2 Capture: Effects of Solvent and Time on Particle Morphology
by Guilherme Henrique Franca Melo, Tiffany Yau, Yuxin Liu and Uttandaraman Sundararaj
Fibers 2025, 13(5), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050050 - 22 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1080
Abstract
Advanced materials including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a critical piece of the puzzle in the search for solutions to various scientific and technological challenges, such as climate change due to the ever-increasing emissions of greenhouse gas. There is intense interest in MOFs due [...] Read more.
Advanced materials including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a critical piece of the puzzle in the search for solutions to various scientific and technological challenges, such as climate change due to the ever-increasing emissions of greenhouse gas. There is intense interest in MOFs due to their potential use for a variety of environmental applications, including catalysis and gas storage. In this work, we specifically focus on the in situ growth of zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) on poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) fibers and its potential application in CO2 adsorption. Nanofibers were spun from a solution containing PAN and cobalt (II) nitrate hexahydrate using electrospinning. Then, the fibers were immersed in solution with 2-methylimidazole for different time durations. Via the diffusion of the cobalt ions through the fibers and interaction with the ligands in the solution, ZIF-67 was formed. From analysis via SEM, FTIR, PXRD, and CO2 adsorption, it is evident that varying different parameters—the type of solvent, immersion time, and ligand concentration—affected the morphology of the formed ZIF-67. It was found that immersion for 4 h in 6.0 mg/mL of ligands in methanol created the ZIF-67@PAN best suited for CO2 adsorption, showing a CO2 uptake of 0.4 mmol/g at 1.2 bar and 273 K. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrospinning Nanofibers)
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15 pages, 4706 KiB  
Article
Quaternized Polysulfone as a Solid Polymer Electrolyte Membrane with High Ionic Conductivity for All-Solid-State Zn-Air Batteries
by Luis Javier Salazar-Gastélum, Alejandro Arredondo-Espínola, Sergio Pérez-Sicairos, Lorena Álvarez-Contreras, Noé Arjona and Minerva Guerra-Balcázar
Membranes 2025, 15(4), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15040102 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1592
Abstract
Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are gaining attention as viable alternatives to traditional aqueous electrolytes in zinc–air batteries (ZABs), owing to their enhanced performance and stability. In this study, anion-exchange solid polymer electrolytes (A-SPEs) were synthesized via electrophilic aromatic substitution and substitution reactions. Thin [...] Read more.
Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are gaining attention as viable alternatives to traditional aqueous electrolytes in zinc–air batteries (ZABs), owing to their enhanced performance and stability. In this study, anion-exchange solid polymer electrolytes (A-SPEs) were synthesized via electrophilic aromatic substitution and substitution reactions. Thin films were prepared using the solvent casting method and characterized using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The ion-exchange capacity (IEC), KOH uptake, ionic conductivity, and battery performance were also obtained by varying the degree of functionalization of the A-SPEs (30 and 120%, denoted as PSf30/PSf120, respectively). The IEC analysis revealed that PSf120 exhibited a higher quantity of functional groups, enhancing its hydroxide conductivity, which reached a value of 22.19 mS cm−1. In addition, PSf120 demonstrated a higher power density (70 vs. 50 mW cm−2) and rechargeability than benchmarked Fumapem FAA-3-50 A-SPE. Postmortem analysis further confirmed the lower formation of ZnO for PSf120, indicating the improved stability and reduced passivation of the zinc electrode. Therefore, this type of A-SPE could improve the performance and rechargeability of all-solid-state ZABs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Polymeric Membranes—Preparation and Applications)
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19 pages, 3741 KiB  
Article
Fmoc-FF Nanogel-Mediated Delivery of Doxorubicin and Curcumin in Thyroid Cancer Cells
by Enrico Gallo, Giovanni Smaldone, Luca Cimmino, Mariantonia Braile, Francesca Maria Orlandella, Neila Luciano, Antonella Accardo and Giuliana Salvatore
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(2), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17020263 - 17 Feb 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1085
Abstract
Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most prevalent endocrine malignancy, and is categorized into well-differentiated and aggressive anaplastic types. Novel therapeutic modalities are needed for TC. Nanomedicine is a promising strategy for the development of precision medicine. In this context, we investigated the [...] Read more.
Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most prevalent endocrine malignancy, and is categorized into well-differentiated and aggressive anaplastic types. Novel therapeutic modalities are needed for TC. Nanomedicine is a promising strategy for the development of precision medicine. In this context, we investigated the use of nanogels (NGs) to deliver agents with different physicochemical properties, specifically the hydrophilic agent doxorubicin (DOX) and the hydrophobic compound curcumin (CUR), in TC cell lines. Methods: Nα-9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl-diphenylalanine (Fmoc-FF) peptide-based NGs loaded with DOX and CUR were formulated using the solvent-switch method. DOX-loaded NGs were previously characterized. CUR-loaded NGs were characterized through rheology, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Confocal microscopy, q-RT-PCR, and ATP lite assays were performed to evaluate the uptake and delivery of DOX- and CUR-loaded NGs on TC cell lines. Results: CUR-loaded NGs exhibited a mean diameter of approximately 204.3 nm and a zeta potential of −34.6 mV, indicative of a good stability. In vitro release studies revealed a sustained release profile of CUR over 72 h. Functional analyses demonstrated that Fmoc-FF-loaded NGs were internalized into TC cell lines. They were primarily localized in the cytoplasm rather than in early endosomes, thereby ensuring intracellular stability. Furthermore, Fmoc-FF NGs reduced the nuclear uptake kinetics of DOX in TC cells, suggesting a potential reduction in dose-limiting toxicity. Comparative studies with CUR-loaded NGs revealed similar internalization and delayed nuclear uptake, highlighting the efficacy of Fmoc-FF NGs in delivering hydrophobic agents. Conclusions: Overall, the data suggest that Fmoc-FF NGs represent a promising strategy for delivering agents with diverse physicochemical properties in TC, enhancing their efficacy and safety and warranting further investigation. Full article
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16 pages, 3202 KiB  
Article
Kinetic Analysis of the Cracking Behavior in Methanol-Treated Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Functionalized Graphene Composites
by Bing-Hong Yang, Shou-Yi Chang, Yulin Zhang, Fuqian Yang and Sanboh Lee
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(2), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9020084 - 11 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 673
Abstract
Structural degradation in liquid environments can hinder the applications of polymer composites as structural materials. In this work, we study the impacts of methanol on surface cracking and the propagation of pre-formed cracks in UV-irradiated poly(methyl methacrylate)/functionalized graphene (PMMA/FG) composites, followed by the [...] Read more.
Structural degradation in liquid environments can hinder the applications of polymer composites as structural materials. In this work, we study the impacts of methanol on surface cracking and the propagation of pre-formed cracks in UV-irradiated poly(methyl methacrylate)/functionalized graphene (PMMA/FG) composites, followed by the uptake of three different crack-generated solvents, namely 1-butanol, cyclohexanol, and 2EA, respectively. The density of surface cracks increases with the increase in the uptake of the crack-generated solvent. The dependence of the nominal diffusivity for the surface cracking on temperature follows an Arrhenius-like law. The methanol in the composites enhances the uptake of the crack-generated solvent, accompanied by the desorption of methanol, and accelerates the initiation and propagation of surface cracks. The activation energy for the initiation of surface cracks shows an increasing dependence on the Hansen solubility distance from methanol. The progression of the pre-formed crack length with time follows a parabolic law. The nominal diffusivity of the crack-generated solvent for the propagation of the single-crack is greater in the healing zone than in the crack-free zone; the corresponding activation energies exhibit an opposite trend. Increasing the fraction of functionalized graphene and decreasing the UV-irradiation dose cause increases in the energy barriers that need to be overcome for the surface cracking and propagation of preexisting cracks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Journal of Composites Science in 2024)
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16 pages, 3296 KiB  
Article
Bioassay-Guide Preparative Separation of Hypoglycemic Components from Gynura divaricata (L.) DC by Conventional and pH-Zone Refining Countercurrent Chromatography
by Zetao Shen, Jing Xu, Lijiao Wen, Lu Yin, Xueli Cao, Hairun Pei and Xi Zhao
Foods 2025, 14(4), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14040578 - 10 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 730
Abstract
Gynura divaricata (L.) DC is a long-used medicinal and edible plant in China folk. Its hyperglycemic effects have garnered increasing public attention in recent years. This study revealed that the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and butanol (BuOH) partition fractions of G. divaricata crude extract [...] Read more.
Gynura divaricata (L.) DC is a long-used medicinal and edible plant in China folk. Its hyperglycemic effects have garnered increasing public attention in recent years. This study revealed that the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and butanol (BuOH) partition fractions of G. divaricata crude extract exhibited significantly higher α-glucosidase inhibition activity and enhanced glucose uptake ability compared to other fractions. Guided by the hypoglycemic bioassay, these two fractions were subjected to isolation of active compounds using high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC). A two-phase solvent system composed of hexane-methyl tert-butyl ether (MtBE)-methanol-0.1% TFA water was employed for the separation of the EtOAc fraction by conventional HSCCC through a gradient elution strategy. Five major compounds were obtained and identified as chlorogenic acid (1), 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid (2), 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3), 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (4), and kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5) by ESI-MS, 1HNMR, and 13CNMR. The chlorogenic acid and the three dicaffeoylquinic acids were found to display higher inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase compared to the flavonoid. Considering their acidic nature, pH-zone-refining CCC (PHZCCC) was then applied for further scale-up separation using a solvent system MtBE: n-butanol: acetonitrile: water with trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) as a retainer and ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) as an eluter. A significantly higher yield of chlorogenic acid was obtained from the BuOH fraction by PZRCCC. Molecular docking between the caffeoylquinic acids and α-glucosidase confirmed their hypoglycemic activities. This study demonstrates that CCC is a powerful tool for preparative separation of active constituents in natural products. This research presents a novel and effective method for the preparative isolation of hypoglycemic compounds from Gynura divaricata. Full article
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