Search Results (1,743)

In response to the growing demand for improving the nutritional profile of widely consumed products, such as cookies, there has been an increasing interest in fat replacers that preserve sensory attributes and have a more positive health effect. Among the novel fat replacement strategies, the incorporation of bigels into food formulations has been studied; however, the impact of Arabic gum hydrogel-based bigels on microstructural properties and their correlation with the texture and quality of bakery products remains underexplored. In this study, cookies were formulated using a plant-based bigel (canola oil-carnauba wax oleogel mixed with Arabic gum hydrogel) as a fat substitute, and their microstructural, textural, and quality parameters were compared with those of commercial butter-based cookies. Compared to butter (firmness of 29,102 g, spreadability of 59,624 g∙s, and adhesiveness of 2282 g), bigel exhibited a softer (firmness of 576 g), more spreadable (spreadability of 457 g∙s), and less adhesive texture (adhesiveness of 136 g), while its rheological properties showed similar behavior but at a lower magnitude. Bigel exhibited high thermal stability and good elastic and thixotropic behaviors, indicating reversible structural breakdown and recovery. Cookies prepared with bigels instead of butter exhibited a similar proximate composition, with a slight increase in lipid content (11.7%). The physical dimensions and density were similar across the formulations. However, the microstructural analysis revealed differences when bigels were incorporated into cookies, reducing porosity (55%) and increasing the mean pore size (1781 µm); in contrast, mean wall thickness remained unaffected. Despite these structural modifications, the potential of bigels as viable and nutritionally enhanced substitutes for conventional fats in bakery products was demonstrated. Full article

Background: Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) represent one of the most effective non-viral vectors for nucleic acid delivery and have demonstrated clinical success in siRNA therapies and mRNA vaccines. While considerable research has focused on optimizing ionizable lipids and helper lipids, the impact of PEGylated lipid content on LNP-mediated mRNA delivery, especially in terms of in vitro transfection efficiency and in vivo performance, remains insufficiently understood. Methods: In this study, LNPs were formulated using a self-synthesized ionizable lipid and varying molar ratios of DMG-PEG2000. Nanoparticles were prepared via nanoprecipitation, and their physicochemical properties, mRNA encapsulation efficiency, cellular uptake, and transfection efficiency were evaluated in HeLa and DC2.4 cells. In vivo delivery efficiency and organ distribution were assessed in mice following intravenous administration. Results: The PEGylated lipid content exerted a significant influence on both the in vitro and in vivo performance of LNPs. A bell-shaped relationship between PEG content and transfection efficiency was observed: 1.5% DMG-PEG2000 yielded optimal mRNA transfection in vitro, while 5% DMG-PEG2000 resulted in the highest transgene expression in vivo. This discrepancy in optimal PEG content may be attributed to the trade-off between cellular uptake and systemic circulation: lower PEG levels enhance cellular internalization, whereas higher PEG levels improve stability and in vivo bioavailability at the expense of cellular entry. Furthermore, varying the PEG-lipid content enabled the partial modulation of organ distribution, offering a formulation-based strategy to influence biodistribution without altering the ionizable lipid structure. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical role of PEGylated lipid content in balancing nanoparticle stability, cellular uptake, and in vivo delivery performance. Our findings provide valuable mechanistic insights and suggest a straightforward formulation-based strategy to optimize LNP/mRNA systems for therapeutic applications. Full article

A high intake of saturated fats and cholesterol from processed meats is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. This study aimed to develop a nutritionally enhanced Bologna-type sausage by partially replacing the beef content with a structured emulsion gel (EG) formulated from pine nut oil, inulin, carrageenan, and whey protein concentrate. The objective was to improve its lipid quality and functional performance while maintaining product integrity and consumer acceptability. Three sausage formulations were prepared: a control and two variants with 7% and 10% EG, which substituted for the beef content. The emulsion gel was characterized regarding its physical and thermal stability. Sausages were evaluated for their proximate composition, fatty acid profile, cholesterol content, pH, cooking yield, water-holding capacity, emulsion stability, instrumental texture, microstructure (via SEM), oxidative stability (TBARSs), and sensory attributes. Data were analyzed using a one-way and two-way ANOVA with Duncan’s test (p < 0.05). The EG’s inclusion significantly reduced the total and saturated fat and cholesterol, while increasing protein and unsaturated fatty acids. The 10% EG sample achieved a PUFA/SFA ratio of 1.00 and an over 80% reduction in atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. Functional improvements were observed in emulsion stability, cooking yield, and water retention. Textural and visual characteristics remained within acceptable sensory thresholds. SEM images showed more homogenous matrix structures in the EG samples. TBARS values increased slightly over 18 days of refrigeration but remained below rancidity thresholds. This period was considered a pilot-scale evaluation of oxidative trends. Sensory testing confirmed that product acceptability was not negatively affected. The partial substitution of beef content with pine nut oil-based emulsion gel offers a clean-label strategy to enhance the nutritional quality of Bologna-type sausages while preserving functional and sensory performance. This approach may support the development of health-conscious processed meat products aligned with consumer and regulatory demands. Full article

Oleogels are a subclass of organogels that present a healthier alternative to traditional saturated and trans solid fats in food products. The unique structure and composition that oleogels possess make them able to provide desirable sensory and textural features to a range of food products, such as baked goods, processed meats, dairy products, and confectionery, while also improving the nutritional profiles of these food products. The fact that oleogels have the potential to bring about healthier food products, thereby contributing to a better diet, makes interest in the subject ever-increasing, especially due to the global issue of obesity and related health issues. Research studies have demonstrated that oleogels can effectively replace conventional fats without compromising flavor or texture. The use of plant-based gelators brings about a reduction in saturated fat content, as well as aligns with consumer demands for clean-label and sustainable food options. Oleogels minimize oil migration in foods due to their high oil-binding capacity, which in turn enhances food product shelf life and stability. Although oleogels are highly advantageous, their adoption in the food industry presents challenges, such as oil stability, sensory acceptance, and the scalability of production processes. Concerns such as mixed consumer perceptions of taste and mouthfeel and oxidative stability during processing and storage evidence the need for further research to optimize oleogel formulations. Addressing these limitations is fundamental for amplifying the use of oleogels and fulfilling their promise as a sustainable and healthier fat alternative in food products. As the oleogel industry continues to evolve, future research directions will focus on enhancing understanding of their properties, improving sensory evaluations, addressing regulatory challenges, and promoting sustainable production practices. The present report summarizes and updates the state-of-the-art about the structure, the properties, and the applications of oleogels in the food industry to highlight their full potential. Full article

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are cyclic oligosaccharides capable of forming inclusion complexes with various guest molecules, enhancing solubility, stability, and bioavailability. This review outlines the structural features of native CDs and their chemically modified derivatives, emphasizing the influence of functionalization on host–guest interactions. Synthetic approaches for CD derivatization are summarized, with attention to recent developments in stimuli-responsive systems and targeted drug delivery. Analytical techniques commonly employed for characterizing CD complexes, such as spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and molecular modeling, are briefly reviewed. Applications in pharmaceutical formulations are discussed, including inclusion complexes, CD-based conjugates, and nanocarriers designed for solubility enhancement, controlled release, and site-specific delivery. Special consideration is given to emerging multifunctional platforms with biomedical relevance. The regulatory status of CDs is addressed, with reference to FDA- and EMA-approved formulations. Safety profiles and toxicological considerations associated with chemically modified CDs, particularly for parenteral use, are highlighted. This review presents an integrative perspective on the design, characterization, and application of CD-based systems, with a focus on translational potential and current challenges in pharmaceutical development. Full article

In this work, we report a green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Tradescantia spathacea (purple maguey) as bioreducing and stabilizing agents, which are plant extracts not previously employed for metal oxide nanoparticle synthesis. This method provides an efficient, eco-friendly, and reproducible route to obtain ZnO nanoparticles, while minimizing environmental impact compared to conventional chemical approaches. The extracts were prepared following a standardized protocol, and their phytochemical profiles, including total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity, were quantified via UV-Vis spectroscopy to confirm their reducing potential. ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized using zinc acetate dihydrate as a precursor, with variations in pH and precursor concentration in both aqueous and ethanolic media. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed nanoparticle formation, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed a hexagonal wurtzite structure with preferential (101) orientation and lattice parameters a = b = 3.244 Å, c = 5.197 Å. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed agglomerated morphologies, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of phytochemicals such as quercetin, kaempferol, saponins, and terpenes, along with Zn–O bonding, indicating surface functionalization. Zeta potential measurements showed improved dispersion under alkaline conditions, particularly with ethanolic extracts. This study presents a sustainable synthesis strategy with tunable parameters, highlighting the critical influence of precursor concentration and solvent environment on ZnO nanoparticle formation. Notably, aqueous extracts promote ZnO synthesis at low precursor concentrations, while alkaline conditions are essential when using ethanolic extracts. Compared to other green synthesis methods, this strategy offers control and reproducibility and employs a non-toxic, underexplored plant source rich in phytochemicals, potentially enhancing the crystallinity, surface functionality, and application potential of the resulting ZnO nanoparticles. These materials show promise for applications in photocatalysis, in antimicrobial coatings, in UV-blocking formulations, and as functional additives in optoelectronic and environmental remediation technologies. Full article

In order to solve various problems in traditional roads and extend their service life, new road materials have become a research hotspot. Polyurethane prepolymers (PUPs) and ceramic fibers (CFs), as materials with unique properties, were chosen due to their synergistic effect: PUPs provide elasticity and gel-like behavior, while CFs contribute to structural stability and high-temperature resistance, making them ideal for enhancing asphalt performance. PUPs, a thermoplastic and elastic polyurethane gel material, not only enhance the flexibility and adhesion properties of asphalt but also significantly improve the structural stability of composite materials when synergistically combined with CF. Using response surface methodology, an optimized preparation scheme for PUP/CF composite-modified asphalt was investigated. Through aging tests, dynamic shear rate (DSR) testing, bending rate (BBR) testing, microstructure scanning (MSCR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and infrared spectroscopy (IR), the aging performance, rheological properties, permanent deformation resistance, microstructure, and modification mechanism of PUP/CF composite-modified asphalt were investigated. The results indicate that the optimal preparation scheme is a PUP content of 7.4%, a CF content of 2.1%, and a shear time of 40 min. The addition of the PUP and CF significantly enhances the asphalt’s aging resistance, and compared with single-CF-modified asphalt and base asphalt, the PUP/CF composite-modified asphalt exhibits superior high- and low-temperature rheological properties, demonstrating stronger strain recovery capability. The PUP forms a gel network structure in the material, effectively filling the gaps between CF and asphalt, enhancing interfacial bonding strength, and making the overall performance more stable. AFM microscopic morphology shows that PUP/CF composite-modified asphalt has more “honeycomb structures” than matrix asphalt and CF-modified asphalt, forming more structural asphalt and enhancing overall structural stability. This study indicates that the synergistic effect of PUP gel and CF significantly improves the macro and micro properties of asphalt. The PUP forms a three-dimensional elastic gel network in asphalt, improving adhesion and deformation resistance. Using response surface methodology, the optimal formulation (7.4% PUP, 2.1% CF) improves penetration (↓41.5%), softening point (↑6.7 °C), and ductility (↑9%), demonstrating the relevance of gel-based composites for asphalt modification. Full article

Numerous rural residential buildings exhibit inadequate seismic performance when subjected to blast-induced vibrations, which poses potential threats to their overall stability and structural integrity when in proximity to blasting project sites. The investigation conducted in conjunction with the Qianshi Mountain blasting operations along the Wenzhou segment of the Hangzhou–Wenzhou High-Speed Railway integrates household field surveys and empirical measurements to perform modal analysis of rural residential buildings through finite element simulation. Adhering to the principle of stratified arrangement and composite measurement point configuration, an effective and reasonable experimental observation framework was established. In this investigation, the seven-story rural residential building in adjacent villages was selected as the research object. Strong-motion seismographs were strategically positioned adjacent to frame columns on critical stories (ground, fourth, seventh, and top floors) within the observational system to acquire test data. Methodical signal processing techniques, including effective signal extraction, baseline correction, and schedule conversion, were employed to derive temporal dynamic characteristics for each story. Combined with the Fourier transform, the frequency–domain distribution patterns of different floors are subsequently obtained. Leveraging the structural dynamic theory, time–domain records were mathematically converted to establish the structure’s maximum response spectra under blast-induced loading conditions. Through the analysis of characteristic curves, including floor acceleration response spectra, dynamic amplification coefficients, and spectral ratios, the dynamic response patterns of rural residential buildings subjected to blast-induced vibrations have been elucidated. Following the normalization of peak acceleration and velocity parameters, the mechanisms underlying differential floor-specific dynamic responses were examined, and the layout principles of measurement points were subsequently formulated and summarized. These findings offer valuable insights for enhancing the seismic resilience and structural safety of rural residential buildings exposed to blast-induced vibrations, with implications for both theoretical advancements and practical engineering applications. Full article

The increasing demand for sustainable disease management in aquaculture has intensified interest in plant-based therapeutics. This study evaluated the formulation and efficacy of andrographolide-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (AND-NLCs) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) challenged with Streptococcus agalactiae ENC06. AND-NLCs were prepared by the phase-inversion technique and characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and in vitro release profiling. Antibacterial activity was assessed by measuring inhibition zone diameters, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Growth performance, feed utilization, hepatosomatic index (HSI), and disease resistance were evaluated over a 60-day feeding trial. The AND-NLCs exhibited an optimal particle size (189.6 nm), high encapsulation efficiency (90.58%), sustained release, and structural stability. Compared to the free AND and control group, AND-NLC supplementation significantly improved growth, feed efficiency, HSI, and positive allometric growth. It also enhanced survival (73.3%) and relative percent survival (RPS = 65.6%) following S. agalactiae ENC06 infection. Antibacterial efficacy and physiological responses showed positive correlations with nanoparticle characteristics. These findings suggest that AND-NLCs enhance bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy, supporting their potential as a functional dietary additive to promote growth and improve disease resistance in tilapia aquaculture. Full article

This study explores the reuse of Ornamental Stone Waste (OSW) in water-based drilling fluids, investigating its potential as a substitute for bentonite. To enhance stability and rheology, OSW particles were functionalized with terephthalic acid (TPA) and combined with xanthan gum (XG). Characterization confirmed successful surface modification, with increased stability at a basic pH. However, rheological analysis showed that the physical mixing of OSW-TPA with XG resulted in low viscosity and poor yield stress, indicating weak interactions. All formulations exhibited shear-thinning behavior. Future work will focus on promoting chemical interactions to form nanocomposite structures and improve fluid performance. Full article

Background/Objectives: The work presented herein focused on the development and characterization of a transdermal caffeine platform fabricated from ultrathin micro- and submicron fibers produced via electrospinning. Methods: The formulations incorporated caffeine encapsulated in a polyethylene oxide (PEO) matrix, combined with various permeation enhancers. A backing layer made of annealed electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) facilitated the lamination of the two layers to form the final multilayer patch. Comprehensive characterization was conducted, utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess the fiber morphology, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) for chemical detection and to assess the stability of the caffeine, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) along with wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) to analyze the physical state of the caffeine within the fibers of the active layer. Additionally, Franz cell permeation studies were performed using both synthetic membranes (Strat-M) and ex vivo human stratum corneum (SC) to evaluate and model the permeation kinetics. Results: These experiments demonstrated the significant role of enhancers in modulating the caffeine permeation rates provided by the patch, achieving permeation rates of up to 0.73 mg/cm² within 24 h. Conclusions: This work highlights the potential of using electro-hydrodynamic processing technology to develop innovative transdermal delivery systems for drugs, offering a promising strategy for enhancing efficacy and innovative therapeutic direct plasma administration. Full article

Battery-swapping stations (BSSs) are pivotal for supplying energy to electric heavy-duty trucks. However, their operations face challenges in accurate demand forecasting for battery-swapping and fair revenue allocation. This study proposes an optimization strategy for the economic operation of BSSs that optimizes revenue allocation and load balancing to enhance financial viability and grid stability. First, factors including geographical environment, traffic conditions, and truck characteristics are incorporated to simulate swapping behaviors, supporting the construction of an accurate demand-forecasting model. Second, an optimization problem is formulated to maximize the weighted difference between BSS revenue and squared load deviations. An economic operations strategy is proposed based on an adaptive Shapley value. It enables precise evaluation of differentiated member contributions through dynamic adjustment of bias weights in revenue allocation for a strategy that aligns with the interests of multiple stakeholders and market dynamics. Simulation results validate the superior performance of the proposed algorithm in revenue maximization, peak shaving, and valley filling. Full article

Accurate pre-drilling mud weight window (MWW) prediction is crucial for drilling fluid design and wellbore stability in complex geological formations. Traditional physics-based approaches suffer from subjective parameter selection and inadequate handling of multi-mechanism over-pressured formations, while machine learning methods lack physical constraints and interpretability. This study develops a novel physics-guided deep learning framework integrating rock mechanics theory with deep neural networks for enhanced MWW prediction. The framework incorporates three key components: first, a physics-driven layer synthesizing intermediate variables from rock physics calculations to embed domain knowledge while preserving interpretability; second, a geological sequence-matching algorithm enabling precise stratigraphic correlation between offset and target wells, compensating for lateral geological heterogeneity; third, a long short-term memory network capturing sequential drilling characteristics and geological structure continuity. Case study results from 12 wells in northwestern China demonstrate significant improvements over traditional methods: collapse pressure prediction error reduced by 40.96%, pore pressure error decreased by 30.43%, and fracture pressure error diminished by 39.02%. The proposed method successfully captures meter-scale pressure variations undetectable by conventional approaches, providing critical technical support for wellbore design optimization, drilling fluid formulation, and operational safety enhancement in challenging geological environments. Full article

Nanoradiopharmaceuticals integrate nanotechnology with nuclear medicine to enhance the precision and effectiveness of radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnostic imaging and targeted therapies. Nanomaterials offer improved targeting capabilities and greater stability, helping to overcome several limitations. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the fundamental design principles, radiolabeling techniques, and biomedical applications of nanoradiopharmaceuticals, with a particular focus on their expanding role in precision oncology. It explores key areas, including single- and multi-modal imaging modalities (SPECT, PET), radionuclide therapies involving beta, alpha, and Auger emitters, and integrated theranostic systems. A diverse array of nanocarriers is examined, including liposomes, micelles, albumin nanoparticles, PLGA, dendrimers, and gold, iron oxide, and silica-based platforms, with an assessment of both preclinical and clinical research outcomes. Theranostic nanoplatforms, which integrate diagnostic and therapeutic functions within a single system, enable real-time monitoring and personalized dose optimization. Although some of these systems have progressed to clinical trials, several obstacles remain, including formulation stability, scalable manufacturing, regulatory compliance, and long-term safety considerations. In summary, nanoradiopharmaceuticals represent a promising frontier in personalized medicine, particularly in oncology. By combining diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities within a single nanosystem, they facilitate more individualized and adaptive treatment approaches. Continued innovation in formulation, radiochemistry, and regulatory harmonization will be crucial to their successful routine clinical use. Full article

Background: Acute lung injury (ALI) is driven by inflammatory cascades and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, with the progression to severe cases markedly increasing mortality. Sinapine thiocyanate (ST), a bioactive natural compound isolated from Sinapis Semen Albae (SSA), demonstrates both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pharmacological activities. However, no monotherapeutic formulation of ST has been developed to date. A dry powder inhaler (DPI) enables targeted pulmonary drug delivery with excellent stability profiles and high inhalation efficiency. Methods: ST was purified and prepared as inhalable dry powder particles via an antisolvent crystallization technique. The therapeutic mechanisms of ST against ALI were elucidated by network pharmacology and pharmacokinetic analyses, with the therapeutic efficacy of the ST DPI in ALI mitigation being validated using LPS-induced rat models. Results: The ST DPI showed ideal aerodynamic characteristics. Notably, ST exhibited a three-compartment (triexponential) pharmacokinetic profile following both intravenous tail vein injection and inhalation administration. Furthermore, the inhaled formulation displayed a prolonged systemic residence time, which confers therapeutic advantages for pulmonary disease management. Furthermore, the inhalation administration of ST demonstrated a 2.7-fold increase in AUC compared with oral gavage, with a corresponding enhancement in systemic exposure. The ST DPI formulation demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy against ALI in rats by downregulating inflammatory cytokines and modulating oxidative stress levels, mechanistically achieved through the MAPK-mediated regulation of cellular apoptosis via a positive feedback loop. Conclusions: The unique triexponential plasma level profiles of an ST DPI provide a promising pharmacokinetics-based therapeutic strategy for ALI, leveraging its marked efficacy in attenuating inflammation, oxidative stress, and pulmonary injury. Full article