High Absorption Rate Research Articles

In Vitro Digestion-In Situ Absorption Setup Employing a Physiologically Relevant Value of the Membrane Surface Area/Volume Ratio for Evaluating Performance of Lipid-Based Formulations: A Comparative Study with an In Vitro Digestion-Permeation Model.

The aim of this study is to establish and test an in vitro digestion-in situ absorption model that can mimic in vivo drug flux by employing a physiologically relevant value of the membrane surface area (S)/volume (V) ratio for accurate prediction of oral drug absorption from lipid-based formulations (LBFs). Three different types of LBFs (Type IIIA-MC, Type IIIA-LC, and Type IV) loaded with cinnarizine (CNZ), a lipophilic weak base with borderline permeability, and a control suspension were prepared. Subsequently, a simultaneous in vitro digestion-permeation experiment was conducted using a side-by-side diffusion cell with a dialysis membrane having a low S/V value. During digestion, CNZ partially precipitated for Type IV, while it remained solubilized in the aqueous phase for Type IIIA-MC and Type IIIA-LC in the donor compartment. However, in vitro drug fluxes for Type IIIA-MC and Type IIIA-LC were lower than those for Type IV due to the reduced free fraction of CNZ in the donor compartment. In pharmacokinetic studies, a similar improvement in in vivo oral exposure relative to suspension was observed, regardless of the LBFs used. Consequently, a poor correlation was found between in vitro permeation and areas under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUCoral) (R2 = 0.087). A luminal concentration measurement study revealed that this discrepancy was attributed to the extremely high absorption rate of CNZ in the gastrointestinal tract compared to that across a dialysis membrane evaluated by the in vitro digestion-permeation model, i.e., the absorption of CNZ in vivo was completed regardless of the extent of the free fraction, owing to the rapid removal of CNZ from the intestine. Subsequently, we aimed to predict the oral absorption of CNZ from the same formulations using a model that demonstrated high drug flux by employing the physiologically relevant S/V value and rat jejunum segment as an absorption sink (for replicating in vivo intestinal permeability). Predigested formulations were injected into the rat intestinal loop, and AUCloop values were calculated from the plasma concentration-time profiles. A better correlation was found between AUCloop and AUCoral (R2 = 0.72), although AUCloop underestimated AUCoral for Type IV due to the precipitation of CNZ during the predigestion process. However, this result indicated the importance of mimicking the in vivo drug absorption rate in the predictive model. The method presented herein is valuable for the development of LBFs.

Optimization of preparation conditions and performance of a new degradable soil water retaining agent

Using polyaspartic acid (PAsp) and bentonite (BT) as the main raw materials, a new type of degradable soil water retaining agent (PAsp-AA/BT) was synthesized by microwave radiation. The optimum synthesis conditions and comprehensive properties of PAsp-AA/BT were discussed and the structure and surface characteristics of PAspsp-AA/BT were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD and TGA in the paper. The results showed that the optimum synthesis conditions of PAsp-AA/BT were as follows: the dosages of polyaspartic acid (PAsp), bentonite (BT), initiator potassium persulfate, crosslinking agent N,N′-methylene bisacrylamide was 5, 3, 0.3, 0.03%, respectively, the neutralization degree of acrylic acid was 75%, and the microwave power was 490W. Under this condition, the absorption ratio of the synthesized PAspsp-AA/BT in deionized water and 0.9% NaCl solution was 953 and 164 g/g, respectively. The synthesized PAsp-AA/BT had a high water absorption rate, good water retention and repeated water absorption, and the degradation rate in soil within 30 days reached 32.75%, with good degradation effect. The analysis of SEM, FT-IR, XRD and TGA showed that: the surface of PAsp-AA/BT was rough and had obvious pore structure, which was conducive to the diffusion of water molecules; polyaspartic acid, bentonite and acrylic acid were polymerized; the cross-linking structure was formed between polyaspartic acid, bentonite and acrylic acid; the product of PASP-AA/BT had good thermal stability. This study provides a new soil water retaining agent, which is helpful for the better development of soil water retaining agent research.

A comparative study assessing the validity of water absorption methods when applied to secondary fine aggregates

The valorization of secondary sands is crucial for fostering a circular economy within the construction sector. One significant obstacle in this endeavor stems from the high water absorption (WA) rates commonly reported for secondary sands. This high WA leads to increased water and cement demand in cementitious mixes and elevates costs. The only widely standardized method to measure the WA of fine aggregates is the cone method, which has proven ill-suited for fine aggregates with angular particles or a high content of fines. This study undertakes a comparative evaluation of the cone method and seven alternative methods: immersion, centrifugation, paper sheet, colorimetric, volumetric flask, continuous drying, and electrical conductivity. Tests were performed on natural river sand and three types of secondary sand. Findings reveal that the continuous drying and electrical conductivity methods demonstrates the greatest potential in terms of reliability and applicability. Also the volumetric flask and centrifugation methods show some potential, provided that critical refinements are made to the corresponding test protocols.

Preparation and Characterization of Protein-Based Hydrogel: Cottonseed Protein Grafted with 2-Acrylamido-2-Methylpropanesulfonic Acid (AMPS)

Using synthetic polymers in the production of superabsorbent polymers offers significant advantages such as low cost, extended service life, and a high water absorption rate. However, concerns about the environmental impact and potential adverse effects on plant growth arise from the degradation products of these polymers after disposal. In addition, handling these polymers can cause rashes, irritations, and even toxic shock syndrome. To overcome these issues, researchers are exploring the synthesis of superabsorbent polymers from natural sources. Cottonseed protein is identified as a potential natural polymer for the synthesis of natural superabsorbent polymers. Notably, there is no existing research on hydrogel synthesis using cottonseed protein and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS). This study addresses this gap by focusing on modifying cottonseed protein (CSP) through graft copolymerization, utilizing the partially neutralized form of 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) in a water-based solution. N,N-methylene bisacrylamide serves as the crosslinking agent, while potassium persulfate (PPS) and sodium bisulfite (SBS) function as redox initiators. The optimization of hydrogel synthesis conditions was achieved using Design Expert-11 software, adjusting the AMPS to CSP ratio. The research reveals that the hydrogel reaches its maximum swelling capacity (195.7 g/g) with 0.03 g of MBA, 0.01 g of PPS, 0.01 g of SBS, and a 1wt% AMPS to CSP ratio. Swelling properties were assessed under diverse pH conditions, and the study delved into swelling kinetics (both pseudo-first-order model and pseudo-second-order model) and performance under different loads. Grafting evidence was validated through FTIR analysis. The maximum water uptake was obtained when there was no load, and the pH value was around neutral (7). In conclusion, the results indicate that the developed hydrogel holds a promise for applications in water retention, reducing water loss, and serving as an environment-friendly, biocompatible superabsorbent polymer so we can use such hydrogel in biomedical applications.

Responses of soil and rhizosphere microbial communities to Cd-hyperaccumulating willows and Cd contamination

BackgroundThe pollution of soil by heavy metals, particularly Cd, is constitutes a critical international environmental concern. Willow species are renowned for their efficacy in the phytoremediation of heavy metals owing to their high Cd absorption rate and rapid growth. However, the mechanisms underlying microbial regulation for high- and low-accumulating willow species remain poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated the responses of soil and rhizosphere microbial communities to high- and low-Cd-accumulating willows and Cd contamination. We analyzed soil properties were analyzed in bulk soil (SM) and rhizosphere soil (RM) planted with high-accumulating (H) and low-accumulating (L) willow species.ResultsRhizosphere soil for different willow species had more NH4+ than that of bulk soil, and RM-H soil had more than RM-L had. The available phosphorus content was greater in hyper-accumulated species than it was in lower-accumulated species, especially in RM-H. Genome sequencing of bacterial and fungal communities showed that RM-L exhibited the highest bacterial diversity, whereas RM-H displayed the greatest richness than the other groups. SM-L exhibited the highest diversity and richness of fungal communities. Ralstonia emerged as the predominant bacterium in RM-H, whereas Basidiomycota and Cercozoa were the most enriched fungi in SM-H. Annotation of the N and C metabolism pathways revealed differential patterns: expression levels of NRT2, NarB, nirA, nirD, nrfA, and nosZ were highest in RM-H, demonstrating the effects of NO3-and N on the high accumulation of Cd in RM-H. The annotated genes associated with C metabolism indicated a preference for the tricarboxylic pathway in RM-H, whereas the hydroxypropionate-hydroxybutyrate cycle was implicated in C sequestration in SM-L.ConclusionsThese contribute to elucidation of the mechanism underlying high Cd accumulation in willows, particularly in respect of the roles of microbes and N and C utilization. This will provide valuable insights for repairing polluted soil using N and employing organic acids to improve heavy metal remediation efficiency.

Long-term performance of chemically modified cotton straw fibers in micro-surfacing asphalt mixtures

Using agricultural wastes in asphalt pavements presents a promising solution to enhance pavement performance and utilize agricultural wastes simultaneously. In the paper, the fibers are made from recycled cotton stalks. Chemical modifiers are chosen to enhance the adherence of fiber asphalt binders. Different modified fibers are added to the SBR-modified emulsified asphalt. The modified asphalt binders are then utilized to prepare asphalt mixtures. Comparative studies on construction performance, road performance, and durability were carried out. Results showed that water consumption and bitumen aggregate ratio at the micro-surfacing were increased after adding fiber. Fibers with low hygroscopicity, rough surface, and high asphalt absorption rate had better adhesion properties. The long-term performance of a micro-surfacing mixture was most remarkably improved by the CH3COOH-modified cotton straw fibers, demonstrating a 10.07 % drop in rutting depth, a 9.13 % decrease in abrasion value, and a 41.13 % gain in shear resistance compared to the micro-surfacing mixtures with unmodified fibers. The study concluded that modified fiber micro-surfacing asphalt mixes are more suitable for seasonal frozen regions than the conventional mixes. The findings offer a theory foundation for the future development of cotton straw fibers in road engineering.

Triple band diamond-shaped polarization insensitive plasmonic nano emitter for thermal camouflage and radiative cooling

This study proposes the design of a novel Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) nano-infrared emitter that uses a unique diamond-shaped grating to achieve selective infrared absorption. Diamond-shaped nano emitter (DNE) structure exhibits four narrow resonant peaks within key absorption windows such as short-wave infrared (SWIR) mid-wave infrared (MWIR), alongside with a wide absorption band in the Non-Transmissive Infrared Range (NTIR) for thermal camouflage applications compatible with radiative cooling. Moreover, the proposed DNE is polarization insensitive as it has an in-plane symmetric design. Using the 3D Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) simulations, we demonstrate the nanoantenna’s superior performance characterized by its high absorption rates and tuned effective impedance matching. As of our knowledge, the findings suggest that this is the first time that a MIM structure achieved multiple narrow resonance peaks, located in SWIR and MWIR simultaneously, with a wide absorption range in NTIR. Represented DNE stands as a significant innovation in the field of stealth technology, providing a tunable, high-efficiency solution for managing and controlling thermal emissions across diverse applications.

Robust and Superhydrophobic Polydimethylsiloxane/Ni@Ti3C2Tx Nanocomposite Coatings with Assembled Eyelash-Like Microstructure Array: A New Approach for Effective Passive Anti-Icing and Active Photothermal Deicing.

To solve the problem of ice condensation and adhesion, it is urgent to develop new anti-icing and deicing technologies. This study presented the development of a highly efficient photothermal-enhanced superhydrophobic PDMS/Ni@Ti3C2Tx composite film (m-NMPA) fabricated cost-effectively and straightforwardly. This film was fabricated utilizing PDMS as a hydrophobic agent, adhesive, and surface protector, while Ni@Ti3C2Tx as a magnetic photothermal filler innovatively. Through a simple spraying method, the filler is guided by a strong magnetic field to self-assemble into an eyelash-like microstructure array. The unique structure not only imparts superhydrophobic properties to the surface but also constructs an efficient "light-capturing" architecture. Remarkably, the m-NMPA film demonstrates outstanding superhydrophobic passive anti-icing and efficient photothermal active deicing performance without the use of fluorinated chemicals. The micro-/nanostructure of the film forms a gas layer, significantly delaying the freezing time of water. Particularly under extreme cold conditions (-30 °C), the freezing time is extended by a factor of 7.3 compared to the bare substrate. Furthermore, under sunlight exposure, surface droplets do not freeze. The excellent photothermal performance is attributed to the firm anchoring of nickel particles on the MXene surface, facilitating effective "point-to-face" photothermal synergy. The eyelash-like microarray structure enhances light-capturing capability, resulting in a high light absorption rate of 98%. Furthermore, the microstructure aids in maintaining heat at the uppermost layer of the surface, maximizing the utilization of thermal energy for ice melting and frost thawing. Under solar irradiation, the m-NMPA film can rapidly melt approximately a 4 mm thick ice layer within 558 s and expel the melted water promptly, reducing the risk of secondary icing. Additionally, the ice adhesion force on the surface of the m-NMPA film is remarkably low, with an adhesion strength of approximately 4.7 kPa for a 1 × 1 cm2 ice column. After undergoing rigorous durability tests, including xenon lamp weathering test, pressure resistance test, repeated adhesive tape testing, xenon lamp irradiation, water drop impact testing, and repeated brushing with hydrochloric acid and particles, the film's surface structure and superhydrophobic performance have remained exceptional. The photothermal superhydrophobic passive anti-icing and active deicing technology in this work rely on sustainable solar energy for efficient heat generation. It presents broad prospects for practical applications with advantages such as simple processing method, environmental friendliness, outstanding anti-icing effects, and exceptional durability.

Solar thermal applications of graphene-based block-ring resonator solar absorber using TiC–W materials

Solar absorbers enable the use of solar energy, a renewable and plentiful resource, minimizing reliance on finite fossil fuels and contributing to sustainable energy practices. The solar absorber that is studied here has an average absorptance of 96.85 % with a simple design and inexpensive materials. This design has two layers of resonator and active layer Block Ring Base Solar Absorber (BRBSA) structure. This study employs tungsten (W) as a resonator and titanium carbide (TiC) as a dielectric layer. The absorption spans from 100 to 3200 nm, with an average absorption exceeding 94 % across the entire structure. Notably, over 97 % of absorption occurs within the range of 210–710 nm, and the highest absorption, reaching 99.9 %, is observed in the wavelength range of 1510–1650 nm. The structure demonstrates high absorption rates across various regions, including 95.85 % in the UV region, 97.89 % in the visible, 95.73 % in the near-infrared, 95.87 % in the mid-infrared, and 89.56 % in the far-infrared region. After analyzing various potential variations of the proposed structure, an optimal design was identified. The parametric study was conducted to determine the optimal physical properties. Additionally, the electric field intensity analysis confirmed the proposed structure's broadband and constant absorption response. This Block Ring Base Solar Absorber has various uses, including solar drying systems, cookers, vaporizers, and warmers.

CO2 absorption using aqueous potassium carbonate (K2CO3) promoted by piperazine (PZ) in packed column reactor

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main contributor in gases that can reduce the heating value and the greenhouse effect on the atmosphere. Several CO2 absorption technologies can be used to reduce CO2 content. Chemical absorption have selectivity and a high absorption rate. This research will study the effect of the addition piperazine (PZ) into 30wt % potassium carbonate (K2CO3) at 30 °C, 40 °C and 50 °C, PZ (1, 3 and 5) % and absorbent flow rate (1, 1.5 and 2) L min−1. The research was conducted in packed column made of stainless steel with height 150 cm and a diameter 9.6 cm filled with packing-type raschig rings made of ceramic arranged randomly to expand the contact between gas and absorbent during CO2 absorption. The process is carried in counter-current, gas streamed at constant flow rate 50 L min−1 from the bottom and absorbent with composition K2CO3, PZ and distilled water streamed from top of column. CO2 loading and CO2 removal in the sample were determined by acid-base titration. The results showed 5% PZ CO2 loading 0.0664 mole CO2/mole K2CO3 and CO2 removal 92.7575% at operating conditions 50 °C and absorbent flow rate 2 L min−1. The addition 5% PZ can increase CO2 removal 16.9525%.

Effect of surgical modification of deep brain stimulation lead trajectories on radiofrequency heating during MRI at 3T: from phantom experiments to clinical implementation.

Radiofrequency (RF) tissue heating around deep brain stimulation (DBS) leads is a well-known safety risk during MRI, resulting in strict imaging guidelines and limited allowable protocols. The implanted lead's trajectory and orientation with respect to the MRI electric fields contribute to variations in the magnitude of RF heating across patients. Currently, there are no surgical requirements for implanting the extracranial portion of the DBS lead, resulting in substantial variations in clinical lead trajectories and consequently RF heating. Recent studies have shown that incorporating concentric loops in the extracranial lead trajectory can reduce RF heating. However, optimal positioning of the loops and the quantitative benefit of trajectory modification in terms of added safety margins during MRI remain unknown. In this study, the authors systematically evaluated the characteristics of DBS lead trajectories that minimize RF heating during 3T MRI to develop the best surgical practices for safe access to postoperative MRI, and they present the first surgical implementation of these modified trajectories. The authors performed experiments to assess the maximum temperature increase of 244 distinct lead trajectories. They investigated the effect of the position, number, and size of the concentric loops on the skull. Experiments were performed in an anthropomorphic phantom implanted with a commercial DBS system, and RF exposure was generated by applying a high specific absorption rate sequence (B1+rms = 2.7 µT). The authors conducted test-retest experiments to assess the reliability of measurements. Additionally, they evaluated the effect of imaging landmarks and perturbations to the DBS device configuration on the efficacy of low-heating trajectories. Finally, two neurosurgeons implanted the recommended modified trajectories in patients, and the authors characterized their RF heating in comparison with unmodified trajectories. The maximum temperature increase ranged from 0.09°C to 7.34°C. The authors found that increasing the number of loops and positioning them closer to the surgical burr hole, particularly for the contralateral lead, substantially reduced RF heating. These trajectory modifications were easily incorporated during the surgical procedure and resulted in a threefold reduction in RF heating. Surgically modifying the extracranial portion of the DBS lead trajectory can substantially reduce RF heating during 3T MRI. The authors' results indicate that simple adjustments to the lead's configuration, such as small, concentric loops near the burr hole, can be readily adopted during DBS lead implantation to improve patient safety during MRI.

A novel approach for preparing aldehyde-free melamine resin and investigation of its retanning performance

Melamine resin (MR), traditionally synthesized using melamine and formaldehyde, is widely used in the leather industry. However, the emission of free formaldehyde poses a significant challenge for conventional MR. To address the issues of aldehyde in MR, extensive research has been conducted. This paper introduces a novel aldehyde-free MR (LTSL) retanning agent synthesized using cyanuric chloride, l-lysine, and sodium sulfanilate. The chemical structure of LTSL was analyzed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The presence of amino, carboxyl, and sulfonic acid groups in LTSL enhanced its storability and imparted LTSL with an amphoteric character. The isoelectric point of LTSL was optimized to reach 4.37, and LTSL exhibited an appropriate size distribution with an average particle size of 254.17 nm and achieved high absorption rates of 87.77% and 95.84% for retanning and fatliquoring agents, respectively. Consequently, the thickness rate of LTSL reached up to 37%, with no detectable formaldehyde. Notably, LTSL also demonstrated excellent physical and mechanical properties, primarily attributed to the coordination and electrostatic interactions between the chrome-tanned collagen fiber and amino/carboxyl groups in LTSL. This research presents an innovative approach for developing an aldehyde-free MR retanning agent, significantly contributing to the sustainable development of leather manufacturing.Graphical

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized by biocompatible ligands with enhanced high specific absorption rate for magnetic hyperthermia

This study introduces a novel green nanocomposite system of iron oxide coated with secondary metabolites (Fe3O4@SM) and compares it with commonly used materials for hyperthermia cancer treatment. Fe3O4@SM magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized through a simple co-precipitation process using metal precursors, followed by heating in pressure reactor to obtain superparamagnetic nanoparticles (Hc = 36.5–54.1 Oe at 300 K). These nanoparticles were subsequently coated with plant-based phytochemicals. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of magnetite iron oxide nanoparticles. SEM images further confirmed the spherical shape of the synthesized nanoparticles, exhibiting a face-centered cubic (FCC) iron oxide structure with sizes ranging from 12±7–85±15 nm. Characterization through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential (ζ) analysis demonstrated colloidal stability, with a polydispersity index (PDI) ranging from 0.226 to 0.436 and zeta potential values ranging from −29.761–1.85 mV. The surface of the nanoparticles was analyzed using GC-MS, which identified bioactive functional groups including ester (42.79 %), terpene (20.69 %), hydrocarbons (17.4 %), and carboxylic (12.37 %) compounds. Compared to Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@GO, Fe3O4@SM exhibited a higher rate of temperature increase within the therapeutic range, reaching Tmax = 45°C with a heating rate (dT/dt) of 0.273 °C/s and specific absorption rate (SAR) of 230.6 W/g at 304 kHz and 400 Oe. In vitro assays utilizing a triple negative breast cancer microenvironment confirmed the non-toxicity of these materials through a DNS assay. The developed nanoparticles offer dual mechanisms of action, combining thermal and chemo effects, making them promising candidates for hyperthermia cancer treatment.

Evaluation of the nutritional potential of peach palm flour and its application in crunchy snacks

The pupunheira (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) is a palm tree native to the Amazon rainforest, and its fruits have high nutritional quality and are highly appreciated by the population where the fruits occur. One of the ways of processing this raw material is the production of flour, which expands the possibilities of industrial application. Therefore, the objective of this study was to produce peach palm fruit flour, evaluate its physical-chemical, properties technological, antioxidant activity, and carotenoid content, elaborate snack-type biscuit formulations with different concentrations of peach palm flour in substitution for corn flakes, and evaluate the physical-chemical characteristics and carotenoid content of the biscuits. Peach palm flour had low moisture content (6.15%), protein (4.82%), and fiber (5.07%); however, it had a considerable carbohydrate content (77.62%), energy value (386,84 kcal), and carotenoids. The technological properties showed a high rate of water and oil absorption and emulsifying activity; however, it did not show foaming capacity or gel formation. The replacement of corn flakes by peach palm flour showed an increase in fiber, ash, lipids, and carotenoids and intensified the orange color of the cookies.

Composite porous 3D foam for solar-driven atmospheric water harvesting in low humidity natural environment

Solar-driven atmospheric water harvesting (SAWH) has been recognized as a promising strategy to alleviate the freshwater crisis. Herein, we developed an efficient porous polymeric foam, LiCl@CCP-PPy, which has low preparation cost, strong adaptability and portability, and is very suitable for use as a wicking material in SAWH systems. LiCl@CCP-PPy contains abundant –NH2 and –OH groups. These hydrophilic groups and excellent pore structure (porosity is 80.22 %) make it have a good moisture absorption effect even in low humidity environment. The moisture absorption capacity can reach 2.86 g/g at 35 % RH and 25 °C, and 4.48 g/g at 25 °C and 90 % RH. The saturated water absorption effect was 27.48 g/g. LiCl@CCP-PPy can be scaled up for production. In addition, LiCl@CCP-PPy has a high light absorption rate of more than 90 %, and the strong photothermal conversion ability of Polypyrene (PPy) enables the material to warm up rapidly under natural light, thereby accelerating the desorption process (96 % desorption rate at 1 kW/m2 for 3 h). Based on the above properties, LiCl@CCP-PPy was applied to the Tengger desert in northwest China. The final water production efficiency was 0.64 L/m2/d, and the collected water quality met the international drinking water standard.

Preparation and Properties of Attapulgite/Brucite Fiber-Based Highly Absorbent Polymer Composite.

The ATP-BF-P(HEC-AA-AMPS) composite highly absorbent polymer was copolymerized with acrylic acid (AA) and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) using an aqueous solution method with attapulgite (ATP) and attapulgite (ATP) as a matrix. The prepared ATP-BF-P(HEC-AA-AMPS) was characterized in terms of microstructure and tested for its water absorption capacity, water retention properties, and pH dynamic sensing ability. The results showed that the synthesized ATP-BF-P(HEC-AA-AMPS) had a rough and porous surface and a high water absorption capacity and rate, almost reaching the maximum water absorption around 20 min, and demonstrated excellent water retention performance at low and medium temperatures. ATP-BF-P(HEC-AA-AMPS) has a sensitive dynamic sensing ability in different pH solutions, with a high swelling capacity between pH 6.0 and 10.0. When the pH value exceeded 10.0, the swelling rate decreased rapidly. Additionally, the thermal stability and mechanical strength of the highly absorbent polymers were significantly improved after blending with ATP and BF.

The study of double-network carboxymethyl chitosan/sodium alginate based cryogels for rapid hemostasis in noncompressible hemorrhage

Developing an injectable hemostatic dressing with shape recovery and high blood absorption ratio for rapid hemostasis in noncompressible hemorrhage maintains a critical clinical challenge. Here, double-network cryogels based on carboxymethyl chitosan, sodium alginate, and methacrylated sodium alginate were prepared by covalent crosslinking and physical crosslinking, and named carboxymethyl chitosan/methacrylated sodium alginate (CM) cryogels. Covalent crosslinking was achieved by methacrylated sodium alginate in the freeze casting process, while physical crosslinking was realized by electrostatic interaction between the amino group of carboxymethyl chitosan and the carboxyl group of sodium alginate. CM cryogels exhibited large water swelling ratios (8167 ± 1062 %), fast blood absorption speed (2974 ± 669 % in 15 s), excellent compressive strength (over 160 kPa for CM100) and shape recovery performance. Compared with gauze and commercial gelatin sponge, better hemostatic capacities were demonstrated for CM cryogel with the minimum blood loss of 40.0 ± 8.9 mg and the lowest hemostasis time of 5.0 ± 2.0 s at hemostasis of rat liver. Made of natural polysaccharides with biocompatibility, hemocompatibility, and cytocompatibility, the CM cryogels exhibit shape recovery and high blood absorption rate, making them promising to be used as an injectable hemostatic dressing for rapid hemostasis in noncompressible hemorrhage.

Synergistic magnetic/dielectric loss and layered structural design of Ni@carbon fiber/Ag@graphene fiber/polydimethylsiloxane composite for high-absorption EMI shielding

Simultaneously achieving excellent shielding effectiveness (SE) and high absorption rate of flexible electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials has become a growing demand for the new generation of highly integrated electronic devices. This study constructed a double-layer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) EMI shielding composite film, with the upper layer using Ni-plated carbon fiber (Ni@CF) as the high absorption loss part and the lower layer using Ag-plated graphene fiber (Ag@GF) as the reflection attenuation part. Due to the synergistic magnetic/dielectric loss effect in the upper layer, high electrical conductivity in the lower layer, and the shielding mechanism of “absorption-reflection-reabsorption” induced by the double-layer structure, this composite film achieves efficient EMI shielding performance and high absorption characteristics in the X-band. The EMI SE values of the 2 mm thick film containing 0.03 wt% Ni@CF and 1.2 wt% Ag@GF reach 33.7 dB, while shielding effectiveness of reflection (SER) and absorption (SEA) is 0.8 dB and 32.9 dB, respectively. This result means that the composite film only reflects 17.2 % of the microwaves while shielding 99.9 % and absorbs nearly 82.7 %, exhibiting a significant absorption-dominated shielding mechanism. This flexible and efficient shielding film with a high absorption rate suits portable and wearable intelligent electronic products to reduce secondary electromagnetic pollution.

Selenized non-Saccharomyces yeasts and their potential use in fish feed.

Selenium (Se) is a vital trace element, essential for growth and other biological functions in fish. Its significance lies in its role as a fundamental component of selenoproteins, which are crucial for optimal functioning of the organism. The inclusion of Se in the diets of farmed animals, including fish, has proved invaluable in mitigating the challenges arising from elemental deficiencies experienced in captivity conditions due to limitations in the content of fishmeal. Supplementing diets with Se enhances physiological responses, particularly mitigates the effects of the continuous presence of environmental stress factors. Organic Se has been shown to have higher absorption rates and a greater impact on bioavailability and overall health than inorganic forms. A characteristic feature of yeasts is their rapid proliferation and growth, marked by efficient mineral assimilation. Most of the selenized yeasts currently available in the market, and used predominantly in animal production and aquaculture, are based on Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which contains selenomethionine (Se-Met). The object of this review is to highlight the importance of selenized yeasts. In addition, it presents metabolic and productive aspects of other yeast genera that are important potential sources of organic selenium. Some yeast strains discussed produce metabolites of interest such as lipids, pigments, and amino acids, which could have applications in aquaculture and further enrich their usefulness.

Engineering Magnetic Nanoclusters for Highly Efficient Heating in Radio-Frequency Nanowarming.

Effective thawing of cryopreserved samples requires rapid and uniform heating. This is achievable through nanowarming, an approach that heats magnetic nanoparticles by using alternating magnetic fields. Here we demonstrate the synthesis and surface modification of magnetic nanoclusters for efficient nanowarming. Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoclusters with an optimal diameter of 58 nm exhibit a high specific absorption rate of 1499 W/g Fe under an alternating magnetic field at 43 kA/m and 413 kHz, more than twice that of commercial iron oxide cores used in prior nanowarming studies. Surface modification with a permeable resorcinol-formaldehyde resin (RFR) polymer layer significantly enhances their colloidal stability in complex cryoprotective solutions, while maintaining their excellent heating capacity. The Fe3O4@RFR nanoparticles achieved a high average heating rate of 175 °C/min in cryopreserved samples at a concentration of 10 mg Fe/mL and were successfully applied in nanowarming porcine iliac arteries, highlighting their potential for enhancing the efficacy of cryopreservation.