Search Results (195)

Background: Local anesthesia is essential for most dental procedures, but its parenteral administration is often painful. Topical anesthetics are commonly used to minimize local anesthesia pain; however, commercial formulations fail to fully prevent the discomfort of local anesthetic injection. Methods: We developed and characterized a novel lidocaine and epinephrine co-loaded liquid crystalline precursor system (LCPS) for topical anesthesia. The formulation was structurally characterized using polarized light microscopy (PLM) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Rheological behavior was assessed through continuous and oscillatory rheological analyses. Texture profile analysis, in vitro mucoadhesive force evaluation, in vitro drug release and permeation studies, and an in vivo toxicity assay using the chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model were also conducted. Results: PLM and SAXS confirmed the transition of the LCPS from a microemulsion to a lamellar liquid crystalline structure upon contact with artificial saliva. This transition enhanced formulation consistency by over 100 times and tripled mucoadhesion strength. The LCPS also provided controlled drug release, reducing permeation flow by 93% compared to the commercial formulation. Importantly, the CAM assay indicated that the LCPS exhibited similar toxicity to the commercial product. Conclusions: The developed LCPS demonstrated promising physicochemical and biological properties for topical anesthesia, including enhanced mucoadhesion, controlled drug delivery, and acceptable biocompatibility. These findings support its potential for in vivo application and future clinical use to reduce pain during dental anesthesia procedures. Full article

The geometric design of flow channels in bipolar plates is one of the critical features of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), as it determines the power output of the fuel cell and has a significant impact on its performance and durability. The function of the bipolar plate is to guide the transfer of reactant gases to the gas diffusion layer and catalytic layer inside the PEMFC, while removing unreacted gases and gas–liquid byproducts. Therefore, the design of the bipolar plate flow channel is directly related to the water and thermal management of the PEMFC. In order to improve the comprehensive performance of PEMFCs and ensure their safe and stable operation, it is necessary to design the flow channels in bipolar plates rationally and effectively. This study addresses the limitations of existing bipolar plate flow channels by proposing a new coupling of serpentine and radial channels. The distribution of oxygen, water concentrations, and temperature inside the channel is simulated using the multi-physics simulation software COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0. The performance of this novel design is compared with conventional flow channels, with a particular focus on the pressure drop and current density to evaluate changes in the output performance of the PEMFC. The results show that the maximum current density of this novel design is increased by 67.36% and 10.43% compared to straight channel and single serpentine channels, respectively. The main contribution of this research is the innovative design of a new coupling of serpentine and radial channels in bipolar plates, which improves the overall performance of the PEMFC. This study provides theoretical support for the design of bipolar plate flow channels in PEMFCs and holds significant importance for the green development of energy. Full article

This study presents a microfluidic chip platform designed using a multiscale 3D printing strategy for fabricating microfluidic chips with integrated, high-resolution, and customizable membrane structures. By combining two-photon polymerization (2PP) for submicron membrane fabrication with liquid crystal display printing for rapid production of larger components, this approach addresses key challenges in membrane integration, including sealing reliability and the use of transparent materials. Compared to fully 2PP-based fabrication, the multiscale method achieved a 56-fold reduction in production time, reducing total fabrication time to approximately 7.2 h per chip and offering a highly efficient solution for integrating complex structures into fluidic chips. The fabricated chips demonstrated excellent mechanical integrity. Burst pressure testing showed that all samples withstood internal pressures averaging 1.27 ± 0.099 MPa, with some reaching up to 1.4 MPa. Flow testing from ~35 $\mathsf{\mu }$L/min to ~345 $\mathsf{\mu }$L/min confirmed stable operation in 75 $\mathsf{\mu }$m square channels, with no leakage and minimal flow resistance up to ~175 $\mathsf{\mu }$L/min without deviation from the predicted behavior in the 75 $\mathsf{\mu }$m. Membrane-integrated chips exhibited outlet flow asymmetries greater than 10%, indicating active fluid transfer across the membrane and highlighting flow-dependent permeability. Overall, this multiscale 3D printing approach offers a scalable and versatile solution for microfluidic device manufacturing. The method’s ability to integrate precise membrane structures enable advanced functionalities such as diffusion-driven particle sorting and molecular filtration, supporting a wide range of biomedical, environmental, and industrial lab-on-a-chip applications. Full article

Ag/AgCl-decorated layered lanthanum oxide (La₂O₃) and niobium pentoxide (Nb₂O₅) plasmonic photocatalysts are fabricated through an ionic liquid-mediated co-precipitation method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) techniques were used to illustrate the physicochemical properties of the materials. The photoactivity was evaluated for the degradation of Acid Blue 92 (AB92) azo dye, a typical organic contaminant from the textile industry, and U251 cancer cell inactivation. According to the results, Nb₂O₅–Ag/AgCl was able to remove >99% of AB92 solution in 35 min with the rate constant of 0.12 min⁻¹, 2.4 times higher than that of La₂O₃–Ag/AgCl. A pH of 3 and a catalyst dosage of 0.02 g were determined as the optimized factors to reach the highest degradation efficiency under solar energy at noon, which was opted to have the highest sunlight intensity over the reactor. Also, 0.02 mg/mL of Nb₂O₅–Ag/AgCl was determined to be of great potential to reduce cancer cell viability by more than 50%, revealed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) examinations. The mechanism of degradation was also discussed, considering the key role of Ag⁰ nanoparticles in inducing a plasmonic effect and improving the charge separation. This work provides helpful insights to opt for an efficient rare metal oxide with good biocompatibility as support for the plasmonic photocatalysts with the goal of environmental purification under sunlight. Full article

In the present study, the primary by-products of the hemp-seed oil process—hemp seed cake flour and hemp seed protein concentrate—underwent enzymatic hydrolysis using proteases and carbohydrases, either individually or in combination. The effectiveness of these enzymatic treatments in releasing bioactive compounds was evaluated by assessing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the aqueous extracts of both hydrolysed and untreated hemp by-products. The aim was to explore their potential senotherapeutic properties and promote their application as dietary supplements. Secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and catechins were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and protein contents were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Scavenging activity (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging assay (DPPH assay)), antioxidant power (Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP assay)), and lipid peroxidation-reducing activity (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance analysis) were assessed through in vitro assays. Possible anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated by assessing haemolysis inhibition. The impact of extracts on albumin glycation induced by exposure to fructose was also determined. To assess the toxicity of extracts, a zebrafish larvae model was employed. All extracts contained significant amounts of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and proteins, and they exhibited notable activities in reducing lipid peroxidation and stabilising erythrocyte cell membranes. However, they did not significantly influence protein glycation (the glycation inhibition was only in the range of 15–40%). Our research demonstrates the substantial health-promoting potential, including senescence delay, of aqueous extracts from by-products of the hemp-seed oil process, which are available in large quantities and can serve as valuable supplements to support the health of animals, including humans, rather than being discarded as waste from oil production. Full article

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) limits drug delivery to the brain, particularly for large or hydrophilic molecules. Brain microvascular endothelial cells (bEND.3), which form part of the BBB, play a critical role in regulating drug uptake. This study investigates the use of cold atmospheric microplasma (CAM) to enhance membrane permeability and facilitate drug delivery in bEND.3 cells. CAM generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that modulate membrane properties. We exposed bEND.3 cells to CAM at varying voltages (3, 3.5, 4, and 4.5 kV) and measured drug uptake using the fluorescent drug FD-150, fluorescence intensity, ROS levels, membrane lipid order, and membrane potential. The results showed a significant increase in fluorescence intensity and drug concentration in the plasma-treated cells compared to controls. ROS production, measured by DCFH-DA staining, was higher in the plasma-treated cells, supporting the hypothesis that CAM enhances membrane permeability through ROS-induced changes. Membrane lipid order, assessed using the LipiORDER probe, shifted from the liquid-ordered (Lo) to liquid-disordered (Ld) phase, indicating increased membrane fluidity. Membrane depolarization was detected with DisBAC2(3) dye, showing increased fluorescence in the plasma-treated cells. Cell viability, assessed by trypan blue and LIVE/DEAD™ assays, revealed transient damage at higher voltages (≥4 kV), with recovery after 24 h. These results suggest that CAM enhances drug delivery in bEND.3 cells by modulating membrane properties via ROS production and changes in membrane potential. CAM offers a promising strategy for improving drug delivery to the brain, with potential applications in brain-targeted therapies. Full article

Metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) remains a significant cause of cancer-related mortality in men. Advances in molecular profiling have demonstrated that the androgen receptor (AR) axis, DNA damage repair pathways, and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway are critical drivers of disease progression and therapeutic resistance. Despite the established benefits of hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and bone-targeting agents, mPCa commonly becomes treatment-resistant. Recent breakthroughs have highlighted the importance of identifying actionable genetic alterations, such as BRCA2 or ATM defects, that render tumors sensitive to poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Parallel efforts have refined imaging—particularly prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography-computed tomography—to detect and localize metastatic lesions with high sensitivity, thereby guiding patient selection for PSMA-targeted radioligand therapies. Multi-omics innovations, including liquid biopsy technologies, enable the real-time tracking of emergent AR splice variants or reversion mutations, supporting adaptive therapy paradigms. Nonetheless, the complexity of mPCa necessitates combination strategies, such as pairing AR inhibition with PI3K/AKT blockade or PARP inhibitors, to inhibit tumor plasticity. Immuno-oncological approaches remain challenging for unselected patients; however, subsets with mismatch repair deficiency or neuroendocrine phenotypes may benefit from immune checkpoint blockade or targeted epigenetic interventions. We present these pivotal advances, and discuss how biomarker-guided integrative treatments can improve mPCa management. Full article

Penaeus monodon (black tiger shrimp) is one of the important shrimp species in aquaculture. Cryopreserving its sperm not only provides technical support for breeding but also effectively prevents the decline of genetic resources, promoting the sustainable development of its aquaculture industry. This study screened different types of diluents, cryoprotectants, and concentrations and explored equilibration time, cooling protocols, and thawing conditions, ultimately determining the optimal cryopreservation protocol for P. monodon sperm. The results showed that the optimal cryopreservation protocol involved using natural seawater as the diluent with 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the cryoprotectant, in which the sperm suspension and cryoprotectant were mixed at a 1:1 (v/v) ratio and equilibrated at 4 °C for 30 min. Subsequently, cooling was performed using a programmable controlled-rate freezer: the temperature was reduced to −20 °C at −5 °C/min and held for 5 min; then cooled to −80 °C at −10 °C/min and held for 5 min; finally, the temperature was reduced to −180 °C at −20 °C/min. After cooling, the sperm samples were transferred to liquid nitrogen for long-term storage. The results demonstrated that thawing in a 37 °C water bath achieved the highest sperm motility compared to conditions at 27 °C, 32 °C, 42 °C, and 60 °C. After 15 days of liquid nitrogen storage, the sperm survival rate was 53.33 ± 9.18%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations revealed that the sperm structure was intact before freezing, with a rounded head, a distinct acrosomal spike anterior to the head, a concentrated nucleus in the head, dense chromatin, and a smooth cell membrane surface. However, after freezing and thawing, the acrosomal spikes of some sperm were fractured, and the membrane structure was damaged. Enzyme activity analysis showed that during liquid nitrogen storage from 0 to 15 days, the enzyme activity of alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) in sperm gradually increased with significant differences observed compared to day 0 (p < 0.05). The activity of malondialdehyde (MDA) showed a gradual increase at 0, 5, and 10 days, but then decreased at day 15. The enzyme activity of catalase (CAT) showed no significant changes from 0 to 10 days (p > 0.05) but significantly increased on day 15 (p < 0.05). The activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) showed no significant changes from 0 to 5 days (p > 0.05) but significantly increased from days 10 to 15 (p < 0.05). These findings provide valuable insights into the cryopreservation of P. monodon sperm and will guide the optimization of cryoprotectant combinations and freezing protocols aimed at improving sperm survival rates. Full article

Lithium batteries have gained significant attention due to their high energy density, specific capacity, operating voltage, slow self-discharge rate, good cycle stability, and rapid charging capabilities. However, the use of liquid electrolytes presents several safety hazards. Solid-state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) offer a promising alternative to mitigate these issues. This study focuses on the preparation of an ionically conductive electrospun membrane and its potential application as an SPE. To support a circular approach and reduce the environmental impact, the target polymeric formulation combines poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and lignin, sourced from paper industry waste. The formulation is optimised to ensure the dissolution of lithium salts and enhance the membrane integrity. The addition of lignin is crucial to contrast the dendrites’ growth and prevent the consequent battery breakdown. The electrospinning process is adjusted to obtain stable, homogeneous nanofibrous membranes, which are characterised using electron scanning microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The membranes’ potential as an SPE is assessed by measuring their ionic conductivity (>10⁻⁵ S cm⁻¹ above 50 °C) and anodic stability (≈4.6 V vs. Li/Li⁺), and by testing their compatibility with lithium metal by reversible cycling in a symmetric Li|Li cell at 55 °C. Full article

Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) are versatile power generation devices that can be fed by both gaseous (H₂) and liquid fuels. The development of sustainable, efficient, and stable catalysts for the oxidation of hydrogen (HOR) and oxygen reduction (ORR) under alkaline conditions remains a challenge currently facing AEMFC technology. Reducing the loading of PGMs is essential for reducing the overall cost of AEMFCs. One strategy involves exploiting the synergistic effects of two metals in bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs). Here, we report that the activity for the HOR and the ORR can be finely tuned through surface engineering of carbon-supported PdAu-PVA NPs. The activity for both ORR and HOR can be adjusted by subjecting the material to heat treatment. Specifically, heat treatment at 500 °C under an inert atmosphere increases the crystallinity and oxophilicity of the nanoparticles, thereby enhancing anodic HOR performance. On the contrary, heat treatment significantly lowers ORR activity, highlighting how reduced surface oxophilicity plays a major role in increasing active sites for ORR. The tailored activity in these catalysts translates into high power densities when employed in AEMFCs (up to 1.1 W cm⁻²). Full article

Carthamus caeruleus L. is traditionally used in Algerian medicine, particularly for burn treatment, but its therapeutic potential remains insufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the root aqueous extract, and to perform phytochemical characterization to identify its bioactive compounds. Phytochemical analysis was conducted using spectrophotometry and reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The antioxidant potential was assessed through various assays, including ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DPPH radical scavenging, hydroxyl radical scavenging, ferrous ion chelation, and hydrogen peroxide decomposition. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using membrane stabilization, protein denaturation, and membrane peroxidation assays. The extract exhibited moderate levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins, quantified as 21.19 ± 0.37 mg GAE/g, 0.72 ± 0.013 mg QE/g, and 27.28 ± 1.04 mg TAE/g of dry extract, respectively. RP-HPLC analysis identified 22 phytochemical compounds, primarily phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins, with orientin and vanillin as the major constituents. The extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, with moderate efficacy in TAC and FRAP assays (IC₅₀ values of 5405.1 ± 4.42 and 1132.35 ± 4.97 µg/mL, respectively). Notable activities included DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging (34.43 ± 4.83 and 512.81 ± 9.46 µg/mL, respectively), ferrous ion chelation (2462.76 ± 1.38 µg/mL), lipid peroxidation inhibition (22.32 ± 3.31%), and hydrogen peroxide decomposition (263.93 ± 7.87 µg/mL). Additionally, the extract stabilized erythrocyte membranes under osmotic, thermal, and oxidative stress conditions (98.13 ± 0.15%, 70 ± 1.27%, and 89 ± 0.87%, respectively), inhibited ovalbumin denaturation (81.05 ± 2.2%), and protected against lipid peroxidation in brain homogenates (69.25 ± 0.89%). These findings support the traditional therapeutic applications of C. caeruleus and highlight its potential as a source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Full article

The rapid expansion of lithium-ion battery (LIB) markets for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage has exponentially increased lithium demand, driving research into sustainable extraction methods. Traditional lithium recovery from brine using evaporation ponds is resource intensive, consuming vast amounts of water and causing severe environmental issues. In response, Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technologies have emerged as more efficient, eco-friendly alternatives. This review explores two promising electrochemical DLE methods: Electrodialysis (ED) and Capacitive Deionization (CDI). ED employs ion-exchange membranes (IEMs), such as cation exchange membranes, to selectively transport lithium ions from sources like brine and seawater and achieves high recovery rates. IEMs utilize chemical and structural properties to enhance the selectivity of Li⁺ over competing ions like Mg²⁺ and Na⁺. However, ED faces challenges such as high energy consumption, membrane fouling, and reduced efficiency in ion-rich solutions. CDI uses electrostatic forces to adsorb lithium ions onto electrodes, offering low energy consumption and adaptability to varying lithium concentrations. Advanced variants, such as Membrane Capacitive Deionization (MCDI) and Flow Capacitive Deionization (FCDI), enhance ion selectivity and enable continuous operation. MCDI incorporates IEMs to reduce co-ion interference effects, while FCDI utilizes liquid electrodes to enhance scalability and operational flexibility. Advancements in electrode materials remain crucial to enhance selectivity and efficiency. Validating these methods at the pilot scale is crucial for assessing performance, scalability, and economic feasibility under real-world conditions. Future research should focus on reducing operational costs, developing more durable and selective electrodes, and creating integrated systems to enhance overall efficiency. By addressing these challenges, DLE technologies can provide sustainable solutions for lithium resource management, minimize environmental impact, and support a low-carbon future. Full article

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a subtype of breast cancer that is associated with poor prognosis and low survival rates. The discovery of novel anti-cancer agents to manage this subtype of cancer is still needed. Ziziphus spina-christi (ZSC) is a plant species that is native to Qatar. It exerts various biological activities, including cytotoxicity as it contains different essential bioactive constituents, mainly rutin and quercetin. To examine the outcome of ZSC on HER2-positive breast cancer, we standardized the ZSC methanolic leaves extracted by Reverse Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis using the flavonoids rutin and quercetin as marker compounds. Here we used two HER2-positive breast cancer cell lines, ZR-75-1 and SK-BR-3, and the chorioallantoic membrane as an angiogenesis model. We found that ZSC extract significantly reduces viability, alters the normal morphological phenotype of HER2-positive breast cancer cells, and inhibits cell migration as well as colony formation; this is accompanied by deregulating different apoptotic markers such as Bax/Bcl-2 and NF-κB in both cell lines. Additionally, ZSC methanolic extract significantly represses the angiogenesis of the chorioallantoic membrane model. Moreover, the molecular pathway investigations pointed out that ZSC extract represses the activity of HER2 and p38 MAPK which could be the main pathways behind the effect of ZSC in HER2-positive cells. Collectively, our results support the potential role of ZSC in the management of HER2-positive breast cancer and form the basis for future investigations. Full article

Hydrophobic eutectic solvents (HES) show significant promise as extractants for metal ions. At their current stage of development, however, they have many disadvantages, such as high costs, limited data on reusability and, often, lower extraction efficiency when compared with traditional extraction systems. This study investigates the physico-chemical properties of five HES formulations based on 1-octanol in combination with camphor, 2′-hydroxypropiophenone, menthol, 1-octanoic acid, and thymol. The 1-octanol/camphor HES exhibited substantially higher extraction efficiency for Fe(III) ions than a solution of 1-octanol in toluene at the same concentration. Furthermore, it showed stability when used in a mixer-settler type extractor. The 1-octanol/camphor HES achieved a rapid extraction and re-extraction rate, with phase contact time reduced to just 2 min, without loss of extraction efficiency. Using the supported liquid membrane method, the proposed Oct/Cam HES enabled a threefold concentration of iron ions in the raffinate phase under continuous operation, confirming its potential for reusability. Full article

The tyrosine protein kinase (TXK) gene, as a member of the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Tec family, plays a vital role in signal transduction mediation. Phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1), a membrane-associated enzyme, is of paramount importance for the differentiation of myoblasts and the normal functioning of muscle tissue. In recent years, both of these genes have been reported to be associated with the economic traits of animals. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TXK and PLCE1 genes and growth traits in Ashidan yaks and to search for potential molecular marker loci that can influence Ashidan yak breeding. A cGPS liquid microarray was utilized to genotype 232 Ashidan yaks and to analyze correlations between two SNP loci in the TXK and PLCE1 genes and yak body weight, body height, body length, and chest circumference at different periods. The results indicated that the g.55,999,531C>T locus of the TXK gene and the g.342,350T>G locus of the PLCE1 gene were significantly correlated with the growth traits of Ashidan yaks. Among these, individuals with the CC genotype at the g.55,999,531C>T locus showed a significantly higher body length at 6 months old compared to TT individuals, and those with the CT genotype at 12 months old had a significantly higher chest circumference than TT individuals. At the g.342,350T>G locus, the body height of GG genotype individuals at 18 months of age was significantly higher than that of TT genotype individuals and TG genotype individuals. The above findings can be used as theoretical support for the subsequent improvement of Ashidan yak breeding. Full article