While oral administration offers distinct advantages for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC), its efficacy is often limited by poor drug targeting and the disease's multifactorial pathology. Herein, we report an orally bioavailable nanotherapeutic system, CAB@Que, in which cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) functions not merely as a delivery vehicle for quercetin (Que) but as a colon-specific butyrate prodrug, enabling synergistic and targeted therapy of UC. The CAB nanocarrier itself exhibits intrinsic therapeutic activity: upon reaching the inflamed colon, its butyryl side chains undergo hydrolysis triggered by colonic alkaline pH and microbial esterases to release butyrate, while residual polymer fragments are further fermented by commensal microbiota to generate additional short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). This dual-source SCFA supplement actively supports epithelial energy metabolism and mucosal healing. Meanwhile, Que is coreleased to exert potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In a murine colitis model, CAB@Que demonstrated superior efficacy over free Que, blank CAB, or their physical mixture, significantly ameliorating clinical symptoms, restoring epithelial barrier integrity, alleviating systemic oxidative stress, and re-establishing gut microbial homeostasis. By integrating carrier-mediated butyrate prodrug action with payload-driven immunomodulation, the CAB@Que platform enables precise, holistic intervention across the "microbiota-mucosa-immune" axis, offering a rationally designed oral strategy for synergistic UC therapy.

Fog water collectors (FWCs) present a sustainable solution for arid regions where fog is a primary water source. To improve their efficiency, we developed a durable and high-performance mesh composed of electrospun hydrophobic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fibers combined with hydrophilic cellulose acetate (CA) microbeads. This hybrid design represents a novel biomimetic strategy, mimicking natural fog-harvesting mechanisms by optimizing wetting and drainage. Despite the significant reduction in average fiber diameter, the TPU-CA mesh maintained mechanical strength close to 1 MPa, comparable to pristine TPU. The introduction of hydrophilic domains into a hydrophobic fibrous network is a unique architectural approach that enhanced fog collection performance, achieving a high water harvesting rate of 127 ± 12 mg·cm−2·h−1. Remarkably, although the mesh remained predominantly hydrophobic, droplets shed completely from its vertical surface, exhibiting near-zero contact angle hysteresis. This synergistic wetting concept enables performance unattainable with conventional single-wettability meshes. Compared to single-material meshes, the TPU-CA hybrid showed nearly double the water collection efficiency. The innovative interplay between surface chemistry, microscale heterogeneity, and mechanical robustness is key to maximizing water capture and transport, offering a promising path for scalable, efficient FWCs in poor water-stressed regions.

Gellan gum/ artemisia sphaerocephala Krasch gum composite films integrated with machine learning for real-time freshness assessment.

Developing organic room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials stable in aqueous environments remains highly challenging due to the facile quenching of triplet excitons. Inspired by the protective β-barrel architecture of the green fluorescent protein (Aequorea victoria), the study presented a covalent anchoring strategy based on an amphiphilic cellulose derivative (cellulose acetate) to construct water-resistant and scalable RTP materials. Covalent immobilization of chromophores within the rigid framework yields dynamic photoactivated afterglow, extending the lifetime from 2.1 to 946.4ms. The resulting films retain bright RTP even under water while exhibiting water-mediated tunable mechanical properties. Furthermore, Förster resonance energy transfer with Rhodamine B enables full-color RTP spanning blue to orange. Benefiting from the inherent thermoplasticity and hydroplasticity of cellulose acetate, the RTP cellulose derivatives are readily processed into diverse 1D/2D/3D architectures and applied in multilevel information encryption. This covalent anchoring strategy offers a sustainable and commercially viable pathway to robust polysaccharide-based RTP, opening new opportunities for optoelectronics, security, and eco-friendly photonic technologies.

This research demonstrates the production of membranes utilizing polyethersulfone (PES). Cellulose Acetate (CA) at 5% and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) at 5% are incorporated into the PES membrane as additives, while ethanol serves as a variable non-solvent in the coagulation bath. The incorporation of CA and PEG additives serves to enhance the performance and characteristics of PES membranes. Fabrication of PES membranes utilizing the non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS) technique. The impact of additive incorporation was assessed through various characterization tests, including Swelling degree, Tensile strength, contact angle, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The results indicated that the swelling degree value increased from 13.66% (PES) to 39.40% with the addition of PEG and CA. Nevertheless, the membrane's mechanical strength was diminished as a result of the inclusion of PEG. PES/CA exhibits the highest tensile strength value at 1.8 MPa, while PES/PEG has a peak of 1.4 MPa. The optimal contact angle measurement was achieved on the PES/CA/PEG membrane at 50°. The SEM characterization results indicated an increase in membrane pore size, with the modified membrane exhibiting a pore size range of 0.331-0.664 μm. The incorporation of 60% ethanol as a non-solvent resulted in the maximum swelling degree value of 41.05%. In conclusion, the characteristics of the membrane are influenced by the combination of additive Cellulose Acetate (CA) and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) through blending.

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is widely used in neural tissue engineering for its strong piezoelectric response, yet its nonbiodegradability and environmental persistence limit its clinical translation. Neural regeneration demands scaffolds that not only replicate the extracellular matrix but also deliver bioelectrical cues to guide neuronal growth. Here, we introduce aligned electrospun fibers of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) and cellulose acetate (CA) as biodegradable, sustainable alternatives to PVDF for studying how piezoelectricity, surface charge, and nanotopography influence neuronal function. Compared to polycaprolactone (PCL) as a nonpiezoelectric control, the PVDF, PHBV, and CA scaffolds exhibited distinct morphologies and progressively decreasing piezoelectric coefficients. All supported robust adhesion and proliferation of B35 neuronal cells; however, piezoelectric fibers significantly enhanced intracellular Ca2+ influx, neurite elongation, and β3-tubulin expression. Both PVDF and PHBV activated the WNT/GSK3β signaling pathway and downregulated the pro-apoptotic BAX/BCL-2 ratio, suggesting enhanced neuroprotective capacity. Notably, while PVDF induced strong Ca2+-mediated neuronal maturation through piezoelectric stimulation, PHBV elicited additional antiapoptotic effects, likely linked to 3-hydroxybutyrate metabolism. Together, these findings demonstrate that combining nanoscale alignment, surface charge, and intrinsic piezoelectricity generates a bioelectrically active microenvironment conducive to neuronal regeneration. Importantly, PHBV emerges as a sustainable, biodegradable alternative to PVDF, bridging environmental responsibility with functional performance in neural tissue engineering.

Mucoadhesive bilayer nanomicelles-in-nanofibers nasal insert for sustained treatment of dry eye disease.

Cigarette packaging contains cellulose acetate, which is difficult to decompose and pollutes the environment. This study aims to utilize this waste as an alternative growing medium in hydroponic systems. The experimental method was applied to water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) plants by comparing its performance with Rockwool. The implementation stages included physical cleaning, sterilization with 70% alcohol, and boiling to remove harmful chemical residues. Based on observations over 26 days, the Independent Sample T-test results showed a significant value of 0.86 (p > 0.05). This indicates that there was no significant difference in plant height and number of leaves. The implication is that cigarette butt waste has been proven to be effective as a growing medium equivalent to Rockwool.

Retraction notice to “Electrospun triaxial nanofibers with middle blank cellulose acetate layers for accurate dual-stage drug release” [Carbohydrate Polymers 243 (2020)116477

Development of HECAM passive samplers for discovering the occurrence, sources, and transport of tire additives and their transformation products in surface waters.

One-step valorization of cellulose acetate plastic waste into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

Structurally refined and functionally enhanced porous cellulose acetate membranes via DL-malic acid-assisted phase inversion

Wound healing is a complex physiological process that demands multifunctional therapeutic approaches to ensure effective recovery. This study presents a straightforward approach using blend electrospinning to produce multimodal hybrid nanomaterials that accelerate the wound healing process. Poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL), cellulose acetate (CA), and polyethylene oxide (PEO) were utilized as biodegradable, compatible, and compliant polymers for generating nanofibers. Hybrid nanofibers functionalized with dexamethasone, ascorbic acid, and hyperbranched polymers introduce anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and antimicrobial properties. Pristine nanofibers with diameters of 0.818 ± 0.028 and 0.845 ± 0.039µm were generated, while drug-loaded fibers with average diameters of 1.075 ± 0.055 and 1.235 ± 0.075µm were obtained. The fibers demonstrated a porosity ranging from 72 % to 86 %. Further, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and contact angle, as well as zeta potential measurements, highlight the physicochemical properties of the fibers. In vivo studies of the nanofibers demonstrated that by day 11, there was a significant acceleration in wound healing. A remarkable acceleration was observed in cell proliferation, granulation, and remodeling phases. The findings emphasize the potential of multimodal hybrid nanofibers as advanced wound dressings and the importance of integrative strategies in wound care.

The environmental threat posed by small, single-use sachets sourced from 48% annual waste from excessive packaging has been assessed by investigating the development of nano-incorporated bioplastic films from the high-yield plant, maguey (Agave cantala). Maguey cellulose was acetylated (using 10 and 15 mL of acetic anhydride for 16, 24, and 32 h), successfully yielding a high of 81.34% maguey cellulose acetate (MCA). MCA was confirmed to contain acetate groups (C=O, C-H, C-O) via FT-IR and exhibited a hydrophobicity of a 121.897° contact angle. Bioplastic films were fabricated using MCA solution combined with 15% (w/w) commercial cellulose acetate (CCA)/MCA and reinforced with nanoclay (NC) at 0.5%, 1%, and 3% (w/w) concentrations. Nanomaterial incorporation generally improved properties; however, mechanical strength declined with increasing NC concentration, recording tensile strengths of 2.01 MPa, 0.89 MPa, and 0.78 MPa for the 0.5%, 1%, and 3% NC films, respectively. Conversely, the 3% NC film showed the best barrier property, with a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 31.14 g/m2 h. Surface morphology confirmed NC integration (nanomaterial sizes 29.74 nm to 107.3 nm), and the 0.5% NC film displayed the smooth structure ideal for sustainable packaging. The slight increase in contact angle observed between the 0% NC (60.768°) and 0.5 NC (62.904°) films suggested limitations in NC dispersion. Overall, the findings demonstrate the potential of using regenerated maguey cellulose acetate to create nano-bioplastic films with tailored mechanical and barrier properties for sustainable packaging, though optimization of NC loading and dispersion is necessary to maximize strength.

ABSTRACT This research aims at the modification of naturally abundant cellulose with imidazole‐based ionic liquid that is well known for antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti‐inflammatory properties. This modified novel material is blended with cellulose acetate in different weight percentages. Cellulose nanocrystals are incorporated in it for improved mechanical strength, high salt rejection and elevated water flux. The membranes are fabricated through phase inversion method using different compositions of synthesized material. The characterization of synthesized materials and fabricated membranes is done through 1 H‐NMR, FTIR, SEM, and XRD. Membranes' performance is evaluated by contact angle, tensile testing, water flux and salt rejection capacity. The best membrane (Mem10) demonstrated high salt rejection (85.03% for CaCl 2 , 82.3% for KCl, 76.1% for NaCl and 77.9% for sea water composition), significant water flux of 1627.68 Lm −2 h −1 , minimal fouling that is, 6% with 98.9% flux recovery and good mechanical strength (12.2% strain and 15.05 MPa stress). The membrane is hydrophilic having contact angle of 49.3° and exhibits remarkable antibacterial and antifungal properties which prevent it from biofouling and hence expand its durability. The results reveal successful synthesis of novel polymeric membrane having marvelous desalination capacity with exceptional effectiveness against microbes making clear water that is fit for domestic use.

ABSTRACT In an attempt to produce bio‐based and biodegradable packaging films, cellulose acetate (CA) and viscose films were combined to form a multilayer film structure. The viscose film was immersed in dilute sodium hydroxide solutions (0.1–0.5 mol/L) and then subjected to heated compression to improve adhesion to CA. Film adhesion was determined using a T‐peel test, and the results suggest that the optimal conditions are 118 bar and 110°C for 10 min. Immersing the composite in a 0.25 mol/L dilute sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution enables firm adhesion between the two films and results in balanced saponification of the CA without substantial degradation of the matrix. The water vapour barrier properties of the multilayer films increase as the CA thickness increases. Interestingly, facing the CA towards the water vapour‐rich side results in decreased permeation compared to the inverse case. However, the oxygen barrier property of the multilayer film is significantly reduced due to the NaOH pre‐treatment, and the oxygen barrier property of the viscose film is lost.

Fabrication of a plasmon-enhanced optical oxygen sensor Ru(dpp)₃2⁺ embedded in a cellulose acetate– AAO hybrid matrix for biomedical applications

Recently, there has been an increased interest in developing functionalised carbohydrates, such as cellulose palmitate, as novel replacements for petroplastics. The functionalisation gives the materials excellent water barrier properties, as well as processability and mechanical properties akin to PET, while potentially having superior biodegradability to conventional first-generation biopolymers. However, the true biodegradability of these novel polymers is still unknown with some recent reports suggesting that it is limited. In this study, we investigated the potential of cellulose palmitate to biodegrade under controlled laboratory conditions, comparing the polymer to cellulose acetate. To this end, studies using specific enzymes, targeted whole cell fungal degradation and model edibility experiments were devised to study the biodegradability at end-of-life. On an enzymatic level, a combination of cellulase and lipase enzymes were found to hydrolyse the fatty acid linkages, allowing the cellulases to access the carbohydrate chain and release glucose. Under optimal conditions the biopolymer was completely hydrolysed within 6 hours. A soil fungi was then isolated from a compost heap that had been loaded with the functional material, to establish the most suitable species for whole cell degradation. This common soil fungi, Mucor sp., was then grown successfully under lab conditions on the functional material as a 95% carbon source. Finally, an edibility experiment was designed, using pepsin and pancreatic enzymes at precise pH concentrations found in the gastrointestinal tract to mimic real life conditions of ingestion by birds. While cellulose acetate broke down under just the acidic conditions, with no enzymes, the cellulose palmitate was found to be stable at the acidic conditions, but hydrolyse over 7 days when the enzymes were present. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study to confirm the biodegradability of functionalised cellulose highlighting the large promise of functionalised carbohydrates as a sustainable alternative to petrochemical plastics within the packaging industry.

The widespread use of tetracycline (TC) has resulted in severe water pollution, highlighting the urgent need for efficient degradation technologies. In this study, a Bi-BTC/BiYO3/CA photocatalyst was synthesized using cellulose acetate (CA) as a carrier via a solvothermal process combined with nonsolvent-induced phase separation, and its photocatalytic performance in TC degradation was systematically evaluated. Under optimal conditions, a degradation efficiency of 95.06% was achieved. Both experimental and theoretical analyses revealed that the formation of the Bi-BTC/BiYO3 heterojunction enhances the separation of photogenerated charge carriers and improves visible-light absorption, whereas the incorporation of CA significantly boosts the material's recyclability. Various characterization methods confirmed the successful synthesis of Bi-BTC/BiYO3/CA. Additionally, the efficient carrier separation and expansion of the light absorption range achieved by the Bi-BTC/BiYO3 heterojunction were demonstrated. Notably, the photocatalyst retained 91% of its initial degradation efficiency after four recycling cycles, underscoring the potential of the CA-based composite catalyst for application in simulated wastewater treatment. This synergistic integration of a heterojunction and carrier provides a promising strategy for the effective degradation of environmental pollutants.

Aqueous zinc-iodine batteries (ZIBs) have attracted extensive attention due to their advantages of high theoretical specific capacity, abundant reserves, high safety, and low cost, while the Zn anodes are still suffering from dendrite growth, side reactions, and polyiodide corrosion, seriously affecting the service life of ZIBs. Herein, sulfonated cellulose acetate (SCA) nanofiber membrane with zincophilic-hydrophobic property is constructed on the Zn anode as a protective layer by electrospinning to circumvent the above problems and achieve a stable Zn anode. Attributing to both the hydrophobicity and zincophilicity, the SCA nanofiber membrane not only reduces the activity of water but also promotes the Zn2+ desolvation. Moreover, negatively-charged groups of the SCA nanofiber membrane cause electrostatic repulsion with polyiodide. Density functional theory calculations and COMSOL simulations further reveal that the SCA nanofiber membrane can tune the uniform 3D deposition behavior of Zn2+ by chemisorption and physical structure, respectively. The obtained ZIBs can achieve ultra-long life span (>13000 cycles) with high-capacity retention (96.74%) and reversibility (average CE: 99.83%), demonstrating the reliability of our proposed strategy for achieving stable and high-performance ZIBs.