Traditional Carrier Research Articles

Hierarchically fibrillated spunlaced nonwovens from waste wool supported ionic liquid as solid amine adsorbents for CO2 capture

The environmental crisis caused by excessive emissions of carbon dioxide-based greenhouse gases has garnered widespread public concern. Solid amine is considered to be one of the most effective carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorbents. However, traditional solid amine carriers have problems such as structural collapse, low efficiency and poor regeneration. In this study, waste wool having hierarchical fibrous structure was spunlaced, fibrillated and later compounded with amino acid ionic liquids (AAIL) leading to the formation of the AAIL@feather-like wool nonwoven absorbents. A synergistic co-amine effect was observed after primary and secondary fibrillation without any sacrifice in the mechanical property of wool nonwovens. Also, the fibrillated nonwovens had high specific area which provided high loading rate (13.53 %) on AAIL. Compared with untreated wool nonwovens, the CO2 adsorption capacity of feather-like wool nonwovens was higher by 65 % (11.75 mmol/g) after loading AAIL. Furthermore, the CO2 adsorption capacity was retained (95.2 %) even after 12 cycles at 80 ℃, indicating that the AAIL@ feather-like wool nonwovens possess good long-term stability. This work paves the way for large scale manufacturing of biobased solid adsorbents with a hierarchical nonwoven structure for efficient CO2 capture.

Dynamically adjusted cross-currency carry strategy

We examine time-varying excess return in a dynamically adjusted international “cross-currency” carry strategy, with a focus on excess returns. Unlike traditional carriers that fund and invest in bonds with the same maturities, the novel dynamic strategy involves funding with a 1-year low-yield treasury bond and investing in 2- to 10-year high-yield bonds in other currencies. An analysis of Sharpe ratios, foreign exchange (FX), and yield excess return shows variations in the joint expectation hypotheses expectations hypothesis of the term structure (EHTS) and the uncovered interest rate parity (UIRP) lead to profits. However, the international strategies perform worse than the domestic carry strategies. Predictive factors, such as the Cochrane–Piazzesi, show limited effectiveness due to FX volatility. Therefore, future studies should examine more predictability factors.

Performance of a novel Built-in Static Magnetic Field – Biological Aerated Filter (BSMF–BAF) for treating high-salt textile dyeing wastewater

High-salt textile dyeing wastewater is difficult to treat. Magnetic fields can enhance the biodegradation capacity and extreme environmental adaptabilities of microorganisms. Thus, magnetically enhanced bioreactors are expected to improve the treatment efficiency and stability of high-salt textile dyeing wastewater. Accordingly, a novel Built-in Static Magnetic Field – Biological Aerated Filter (BSMF–BAF) was constructed and investigated for treating actual high-salt textile dyeing wastewater in this study. Two other BAFs packed with traditional and magnetic ceramsite carriers, respectively, were simultaneously operated for comparison. The removal of color, chemical oxygen demand (COD), suspended solid (SS) and acute toxicity were monitored. The activities of key enzymes and microbial community structure were analyzed to reveal possible mechanisms for improving the treatment efficiency of traditional BAF using the BSMF. The results showed that the BSMF–BAF possessed the highest removal efficiencies of color, COD, SS and acute toxicity among the three BAFs. The BSMF induced significant increases in the activities of azoreductase and lignin peroxidase, which were responsible for the degradation of azo compounds in the wastewater and the detoxification of toxic intermediates, respectively. Additionally, the BSMF induced the relative enrichment of potentially effective bacteria and fungi, and it maintained a relatively high abundance of fungi in the microbial community, resulting in a high treatment efficiency.

Development of a sequential release nanomaterial for co-delivery of hypoxia-induced tirapazamine and HIF-1α siRNA in cancer therapy

Unlike traditional drug carriers, sequential drug delivery systems can release different drugs in order, with the first released drug providing a prerequisite for the later released drug to maximize its function, thereby achieving stronger anti-tumor effects. Herein we constructed a temporal sequential system designated TPZ@MSN/HIF-1α siRNA@PDA@GOx (MTRPG) in which mesoporous silica nanoparticles were used as cores to load hypoxia induced chemotherapy drug tirapazamine (TPZ) and gene targeted nucleic acid drug HIF-1α siRNA, polydopamine (PDA) as acid –responsive coating as well as to realize photothermal therapy, and glucose oxidase (GOx) as the outermost layer to achieve starvation therapy and construct a deepened hypoxia to activate TPZ. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that the first released glucose oxidase catalyzed the oxidation of glucose, achieving starvation treatment while reducing the acidic environment and further exacerbating hypoxia in tumor cells. The reduced acidic conditions enabled the degradation of PDA, resulting in the release of loaded HIF-1α siRNA and TPZ. At the same time, PDA could also exert photothermal therapy under 808 nm near-infrared (808 nm NIR) laser irradiation. The later released hypoxia induced chemotherapy drug TPZ amplifies its anti-tumor activity under intensified hypoxia conditions. Meanwhile, the released HIF-1α siRNA interfered with the up-regulated HIF-1α induced by the deepened hypoxia condition, which caused hypoxia tolerance in tumors, reduced its expression activity, and achieved synergistic killing of tumor cells with chemotherapy. This work provides an effective multimodal synergistic therapy strategy to promote tumor therapeutic index, which may possess a promising future in clinical application.

Sustainable active packaging developed using starch-based foam incorporating 1-Methylcyclopropene@α-Cyclodextrin

The preservation of fruit freshness during long-distance transportation frequently faces significant challenges, especially a high risk of spoilage. 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), an effective ethylene inhibitor, is widely used to slow down fruit ripening and maintain freshness. However, achieving a controllable release of 1-MCP is challenging, and traditional carrier materials such as paper, chitosan films, and microcapsules have proven unsatisfactory. Here, we introduced an innovative sustainable packaging featuring a “sandwich” structure based on starch-based foam sheets. The hydrophilic properties and porous structure of the foam ensure the controllable and slow release of 1-MCP. Additionally, its mechanical durability provides a cushioning role to minimize physical damage to fruits during transport process. This method achieves a significant reduction in ethylene production and respiration rates by up to 60.49 % and 57.50 % respectively, leading to an extension of the shelf life of climacteric fruits by 5–10 days. The novel active packaging not only effectively prolongs the shelf life and improves the quality of fruit but is also economical and environmentally friendly due to its biodegradable starch-based composition.

A new modulation for three‐phase current source converter

AbstractThis brief proposes an improved pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme, which uses diode voltage clamping characteristics to achieve the direct control of three‐phase current source converter without any logical transformation. Compared with the traditional indirect carrier modulation scheme—mapping‐PWM, the proposed scheme can solve the disadvantages of low DC current utilization, high switching loss, and complex control process. The generation mechanism of IPWM is analyzed in this brief. Then, based on the generation mechanism, the output characteristics of the system under IPWM are analyzed and compared with the traditional modulation scheme. Finally, the experimental results verify the effectiveness the proposed modulation scheme.

3D printing for constructing biocarriers using sodium alginate/ε-poly-l-lysine ink: Enhancing microbial enrichment for efficient nitrogen removal in wastewater

The microbial enrichment of traditional biocarriers is limited due to the inadequate consideration of spatial structure and surface charging characteristics. Here, capitalizing on the ability of 3D printing technology to fabricate high-resolution materials, we further designed a positively charged sodium alginate/ε-poly-l-lysine (SA/ε-PL) printing ink, and the 3D printed biocarriers with ideal pore structure and rich positive charge were constructed to enhance the microbial enrichment. The rheological and mechanical tests confirmed that the developed SA/ε-PL ink could simultaneously satisfy the smooth extrusion for printing process and the maintenance of 3D structure. The utilization of the ε-PL secondary cross-linking strategy reinforced the 3D mechanical structure and imparted the requisite physical properties for its application as a biocarrier. Compared with traditional sponge carriers, 3D printed biocarrier had a faster initial attachment rate and a higher biomass of 14.58 ± 1.18 VS/cm3, and the nitrogen removal efficiency increased by 53.9 %. Besides, due to the superior electrochemical properties and biocompatibility, the 3D printed biocarriers effectively enriched the electroactive denitrifying bacteria genus Trichococcus, thus supporting its excellent denitrification performance. This study provided novel insights into the development of new functional biocarriers in the wastewater treatment, thereby providing scientific guidance for practical engineering.

Multifunctional Laser-Induced Graphene-Based Microfluidic Chip for High-Performance Oocyte Cryopreservation with Low Concentration of Cryoprotectants.

Oocyte cryopreservation is essential in the field of assisted reproduction, but due to the large size and poor environmental tolerance of oocytes, cell freezing technology needs further improvement. Here, a Y-shaped microfluidic chip based on 3D graphene is ingeniously devised by combining laser-induced graphene (LIG) technology and fiber etching technology. The prepared LIG/PDMS microfluidic chip can effectively suppress ice crystal size and delay ice crystal freezing time by adjusting surface hydrophobicity. In addition, LIG endows the microfluidic chip with an outstanding photothermal effect, which allows to sharply increase its surface temperature from 25 to 71.8°C with 10s of low-power 808nm laser irradiation (0.4Wcm-2). Notably, the LIG/PDMS microfluidic chip not only replaces the traditional cryopreservation carriers, but also effectively reduces the dosage of cryoprotectants (CPAs) needed in mouse oocyte cryopreservation. Even when the concentration of CPAs is cut in half (final concentration of 7.5% ethylene glycol (EG) and 7.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)), the survival rate of oocytes is still as high as 92.4%, significantly higher than the control group's 85.8%. Therefore, this work provides a novel design strategy to construct multifunctional microfluidic chips for high-performance oocytes cryopreservation.

The impact of low-cost carriers on high-quality producers in the aviation industry: cost-benefit analysis

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the low-cost carriers (LCC) impact on the high-quality carriers (HQC) in the aviation industry. The impact of LCCs on high-quality producers in the aviation industry has been a significant and multifaceted phenomenon.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a captivating case study approach, investigating into the intricate fabric of the subject matter. Interviews serve as the cornerstone of primary evidence, offering first-hand insights, while secondary data sourced from documents adds depth to the exploration of the challenges encountered by the HQC.FindingsThe study concludes that LCCs have disrupted the traditional aviation landscape by offering low fares, simplified service models and aggressive cost-cutting strategies. This disruption has affected both the high-quality producers, such as full-service airlines. Full-service airlines have adopted a strategy of segmenting their market by offering multiple fare classes, with varying levels of service and flexibility. This allows them to target both price-sensitive travelers and those seeking premium services, catering to a broader customer base. The competition from LCCs has spurred innovation within the aviation industry, leading to advancements in technology, digital services and operational efficiency. Airlines, both LCCs and traditional carriers, have had to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and embrace digital solutions for booking, check-in and in-flight services.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study provides a valuable cost-benefit analysis of the impact of LCC on high-quality producers in the aviation industry, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations and recognize the avenues for future research to further enhance our understanding of this complex and evolving industry landscape. While this study contributes valuable insights into the impact of LCCs on high-quality producers in the aviation industry, it is essential to recognize its limitations and identify opportunities for future research to expand our understanding of this complex and dynamic landscape. By addressing these limitations and exploring new avenues of inquiry, we can continue to advance our knowledge and inform evidence-based decision-making within the industry.Originality/valueThis study pioneers an exploration into the intricate tapestry of factors molding the future of the aviation sector. Through its groundbreaking analysis, it furnishes indispensable insights for industry stakeholders, policymakers and the discerning traveling public, setting a new benchmark for understanding and navigating the aviation landscape.

Using Surface Immunogenic Protein as a Carrier Protein to Elicit Protective Antibody to Multiple Serotypes for Candidate Group B Streptococcal Glycan Conjugate Vaccines.

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a life-threatening opportunistic pathogen, particularly in pregnant women, infants, and the elderly. Currently, maternal vaccination is considered the most viable long-term option for preventing GBS mother-to-infant infection, and two polysaccharide conjugate vaccines utilizing CRM197 as a carrier protein have undergone clinical phase II trials. Surface immunogenic protein (Sip), present in all identified serotypes of GBS strains so far, is a protective surface protein of GBS. In this study, the type Ia capsular polysaccharide (CPS) of GBS was utilized as a model to develop candidate antigens for a polysaccharide conjugate vaccine by coupling it with the Sip of GBS and the traditional carrier protein CRM197. Serum analysis from immunized New Zealand rabbits and CD1 mice revealed that there was no significant difference in antibody titers between the Ia-Sip group and Ia-CRM197 group; however, both were significantly higher than those observed in the Ia polysaccharide group. Opsonophagocytosis and passive immune protection results using rabbit serum indicated no significant difference between the Ia-Sip and Ia-CRM197 groups, both outperforming the Ia polysaccharide group. Furthermore, serum from the Ia-Sip group had a cross-protective effect on multiple types of GBS strains. The challenge test results in CD1 mice demonstrated that the Ia-Sip group provided complete protection against lethal doses of bacteria and also showed cross-protection against type III strain. Our study demonstrates for the first time that Ia-Sip is immunogenic and provides serotype-independent protection in glycan conjugate vaccines, which also indicates Sip may serve as an excellent carrier protein for GBS glycan conjugate vaccines and provide cross-protection against multiple GBS strains.

Preparation of mesoporous silica/hydroxyapatite loaded quercetin nanoparticles and research on its antibacterial properties

In this study, amino-functionalized mesoporous silica/hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (MSNS/HAP) with the property of acid dissociation have been prepared as a traditional Chinese medicine monomer carriers to improve the drug loading rate and antibacterial properties of antimicrobial quercetin (QUE) in vitro. The experimental results confirm that the drug loading rate of MSNs/HAP is 28.94 %, which is about 3.6 times higher than that of aminated mesoporous sililca nanoparticles (MSNs). The drug release of QUE on MSNs/HAP is pH-sensitive in phosphate buffered saline (pH=4.0–7.4). The above fabricated traditional Chinese medicine monomer modified nanocomposites (QUE@MSNs/HAP) displays concentration-dependent inhibitory effect, which shows better antibacterial effect than free QUE. The minimum inhibitory concentration for two tested bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) and Escherichia coli (E.coli), is 256 mg·L −1. In summary, QUE@MSNs/HAP have successfully prepared, which not only improves the bio-availability of QUE, but also has acid-sensitive drug release properties. Compared with free QUE, its antibacterial performance significantly enhances, which provides a theoretical basis for the application of Chinese medicine molecules in bacterial treatment.

Micromotors based on mesoporous silica tubes for thrombus therapy

To solve the problems of traditional drug carriers such as their single structure and lack of graded release, this work designs and synthesizes a kind of microporous–mesoporous silica tube (MST) with a macroporous and mesoporous structure. Then, manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticles prepared using the hydrothermal method are embedded in the macropores to form an MST/Mn micromotor, which is then loaded with heparin and urokinase for thrombolytic therapy. The motion behavior of the micromotor is also investigated. Both static and dynamic thrombolytic therapy are detected, and the results indicate that a better thrombolytic effect can be observed on the MST/manganese micromotor with a motion ability compared with the samples without a motion ability. This research is expected to provide ideas for the design of more effective thrombus treatment agents.

Foams Set a New Pace for the Release of Diclofenac Sodium.

Medicated foams have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional carrier systems in pharmaceutical research. Their rapid and convenient application allows for effective treatment of extensive or hirsute areas, as well as sensitive or inflamed skin surfaces. Foams possess excellent spreading capabilities on the skin, ensuring immediate drug absorption without the need for intense rubbing. Our research focuses on the comparison of physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of three drug delivery systems: foam, the foam bulk liquid, and a conventional hydrogel. During the development of the composition, widely used diclofenac sodium was employed. The safety of the formulae was confirmed through an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. Subsequently, the closed Franz diffusion cell was used to determine drug release and permeation in vitro. Ex vivo Raman spectroscopy was employed to investigate the presence of diclofenac sodium in various skin layers. The obtained results of the foam were compared to the bulk liquid and to a conventional hydrogel. In terms of drug release, the foam showed a rapid release, with 80% of diclofenac released within 30 min. In summary, the investigated foam holds promising potential as an alternative to traditional dermal carrier systems, offering faster drug release and permeation.

State of the art in pediatric nanomedicines.

In recent years, the continuous development of innovative nanopharmaceuticals is expanding their biomedical and clinical applications. Nanomedicines are being revolutionized to circumvent the limitations of unbound therapeutic agents as well as overcome barriers posed by biological interfaces at the cellular, organ, system, and microenvironment levels. In many ways, the use of nanoconfigured delivery systems has eased challenges associated with patient differences, and in our opinion, this forms the foundation for their potential usefulness in developing innovative medicines and diagnostics for special patient populations. Here, we present a comprehensive review of nanomedicines specifically designed and evaluated for disease management in the pediatric population. Typically, the pediatric population has distinguishing needs relative to those of adults majorly because of their constantly growing bodies and age-related physiological changes, which often need specialized drug formulation interventions to provide desirable therapeutic effects and outcomes. Besides, child-centric drug carriers have unique delivery routes, dosing flexibility, organoleptic properties (e.g., taste, flavor), and caregiver requirements that are often not met by traditional formulations and can impact adherence to therapy. Engineering pediatric medicines as nanoconfigured structures can potentially resolve these limitations stemming from traditional drug carriers because of their unique capabilities. Consequently, researchers from different specialties relentlessly and creatively investigate the usefulness of nanomedicines for pediatric disease management as extensively captured in this compilation. Some examples of nanomedicines covered include nanoparticles, liposomes, and nanomicelles for cancer; solid lipid and lipid-based nanostructured carriers for hypertension; self-nanoemulsifying lipid-based systems and niosomes for infections; and nanocapsules for asthma pharmacotherapy.

Super Graphene-Skinned Materials: An Innovative Strategy toward Graphene Applications.

Super graphene-skinned materials are emerging members of the graphene composite materials family, which are produced through the high-temperature chemical deposition of continuous graphene layers on traditional engineering materials. The high-performance graphene "skin" endows the traditional engineering materials with additional functionalities, and atomically thin graphene films enter the market by hitching a ride on traditional material carriers. Beyond the physical coating of graphene powders onto engineering materials, the directly grown continuous graphene skin keeps its excellent intrinsic properties to a great extent and holds promise for future applications. Super graphene-skinned material is an innovative pathway for applications of continuous graphene films, which avoids the challenging peeling-transfer process and solves the non-self-supporting issue of ultrathin graphene film. It is a big family, including graphene-skinned powders, fibers, foils, and foams. With further processing and molding, we can obtain graphene-dispersed bulk materials, especially for metal-based graphene-skinned materials, which provides a creative pathway for uniformly dispersing graphene into a metal matrix. In practical applications, graphene-skinned materials would exhibit excellent performance with perfect processing compatibility with current engineering materials and be pushed to real industrial applications relying on the broad market of engineering materials.

A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON NANO DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM: SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES (SLN)

Nanomedicine along with nano-delivery systems, are a young but fast-emerging science in which tiny materials are used as diagnostic tools or to deliver therapeutic drugs to specific targeted locations in a controlled manner. Nanotechnology has numerous advantages in the treatment of chronic human diseases through the site-specific and target-oriented delivery of precise medications. There have recently been several notable applications of nanomedicine (chemotherapeutic agents, biological agents, immunotherapeutic agents, and so on) in the treatment of various disorders. Efficient use of pricey medications and excipients, as well as cost savings in manufacturing Beneficial to patients, improved therapy, comfort, and the standard of living. Lipids have been proposed as an alternate carrier to circumvent the constraints of polymeric nanoparticles, notably for lipophilic medicines. Such small particles of lipid are known as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), and they are gaining popularity among formulators all over the world. SLNs are colloidal carriers that were developed in the last decade as a replacement for traditional carriers. Lipid nanoparticles have caught the interest of researchers during the last two decades and have shown considerable therapeutic success since the first clinical approval of Doxil in 1995. Simultaneously, lipid nanoparticles have shown significant promise in conveying nucleic acid medications, as proven by the approval of two RNA treatments and an mRNA COVID-19 vaccination.

Porosity in Sr1−xCaxFeO3-δ oxygen carriers: The role of surface area and pretreatment on storage activity

Perovskite oxides have generated interest as robust, low-temperature oxygen carrier materials for a variety of clean energy applications, including chemical looping gasification and air separations. Methods to improve O2 desorption kinetics are vital to allow these carriers to compete economically with traditional metal oxide carriers or cryogenic separations. Herein, we investigated the cumulative roles that surface area, pretreatment, and elemental composition have on the oxygen storage properties of a state-of-the-art carrier system, Sr1−xCaxFeO3-δ (x = 0.20, 0.25, 0.30) synthesized using multiple methods. Porous materials synthesized by the Pechini, or citrate, method had their surface area controlled using the synthesis temperature. The high surface area of the Sr0.7Ca0.3FeO3-δ materials is most beneficial at low operating temperatures, such as 350 and 400 °C, as their reduction rates are twice as fast as those obtained with their bulk counterparts. These effects are observed at higher operating temperatures and within a single composition, but temperature tunability using variable Ca2+ substitution in the Sr1−xCaxFeO3-δ overshadows the improvements gained from higher surface areas. Additionally, we establish that pretreatment in N2 at an elevated temperature is necessary to enhance kinetics further. For maximum efficiency, pretreatment at the synthesis temperature is suggested for the Pechini method-synthesized systems, whereas 800 °C is adequate for bulk materials.

A systematically evolved method for the effective use of essential oil blends for the structural maintenance of palm leaf manuscripts

Palm leaf manuscripts (PLMs) are traditional carriers that contain a wealth of knowledge from different disciplines written by ancient scholars. However, PLMs are susceptible to deterioration due to moisture, light, fungi and bacteria. An existing method of applying essential oils (EOs) to preserve PLMs does not currently appear successful, hence the study presented here which aimed to maximise the preservation characteristics of six different EO blends, prepared and applied to palm leaves, which were then tested for stiffness, brightness and weight gain. The interpretation of the efficiency of EO blends in the preservation of PLMs is attributed to the compatibility between the oils due to the various constituents present in the individual EOs. FTIR spectroscopy was used to understand the compatibility of the oils in a blend and any EO blend rendering a higher stiffness and brightness was identified as having a high preservation performance. Based on the investigation, good compatibility is observed between the FTIR spectrum of Blend-E with its contributing EOs of citronella, neem and mustard. On the other hand, Blend-B exhibits poor preservation characteristics and incompatibility. The study concludes with the recommendation that Blend-E is suitable for the treatment and regular maintenance of PLMs as it can help reduce physical and chemical damage.

The Multilingual Dynamics of Cameroon: Exploring the Influence of Mother Tongue

Cameroon, a central African country, is known for its linguistic diversity, with over 284 languages spoken within its borders. The mother tongue plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and promoting identity, as it serves as a carrier of traditions, customs, and values. Speaking one's mother tongue allows for deeper connection to emotions and thoughts, leading to stronger self-expression. However, the country's official languages, English and French, can sometimes overshadow local languages, posing challenges. Despite these challenges, preserving the mother tongue is essential for national unity and promoting effective communication. Governments and educational institutions can support local languages by allocating resources, creating policies for inclusion, and encouraging language maintenance and revitalization efforts. This approach fosters unity and celebrates the unique linguistic fabric of Cameroon, allowing the country to continue to prosper and maintain cultural vibrancy.

THE METHOD OF IMPLEMENTATION OF ETHNO-ART TRADITIONS IN THE DESIGN OF MODERN SUBJECT FORMS

The article consistently reveals the actual problems of the implementation of ethnic artistic traditions in modern fields of design. The role and place of the artifact in the modern object environment as a carrier of ethnocultural traditions is revealed. The interrelationship of the artifact in the thing-consumer system is consistently highlighted, as well as its function in the design of modern subject forms is revealed. A special place in the article is devoted to the study of the method of experimental modeling when it is used in modern design. The method of forming subject forms using special methods, which makes it possible to create variants of original functional things, is considered. The results of the study of the methodology of the implementation of ethnic artistic traditions in modern design can be used in the development of programs for the training of specialists in the field of art and design, as well as in individual design practice.