Low Absorption Rate Research Articles

Calcium Transport and Enrichment in Microorganisms: A Review

Calcium is a vital trace element for the human body, and its deficiency can result in a range of pathological conditions, including rickets and osteoporosis. Despite the numerous types of calcium supplements currently available on the market, these products are afflicted with a number of inherent deficiencies, such as low calcium content, poor aqueous solubility, and low human absorption rate. Many microorganisms, particularly beneficial microorganisms, including edible fungi, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast, are capable of absorbing and enriching calcium, a phenomenon that has been widely documented. This opens the door to the potential utilization of microorganisms as novel calcium enrichment carriers. However, the investigation of calcium-rich foods from microorganisms still faces many obstacles, including a poor understanding of calcium metabolic pathways in microorganisms, a relatively low calcium enrichment rate, and the slow growth of strains. Therefore, in order to promote the development of calcium-rich products from microorganisms, this paper provides an overview of the impacts of calcium addition on strain growth, calcium enrichment rate, antioxidant system, and secondary metabolite production. Additionally, it highlights calcium transport and enrichment mechanisms in microorganism cells and offers a detailed account of the progress made on calcium-binding proteins, calcium transport pathways, and calcium storage and release. This paper offers insights for further research on the relevant calcium enrichment in microorganism cells.

A new green rigid polyurethane foam based on modified palm oil: Preliminary study of their potential for marine buoy applications

AbstractThis study demonstrates a new green rigid polyurethane (PU) based on modified palm oil (MPO) for marine buoy applications. The bio‐polyol based on palm oil was synthesized using hydrogen peroxide and formic acid. The foam formation was by kinetic foaming reaction. The MPO‐based PU foams made with increased water content had closed cells that grew larger with water content to provide a low‐density foam. The resistance to flammability of PU foam was improved by adding triphenyl phosphate (TPP). The PU foam with increased TPP content had enlarged cells, increased water absorption and decreased compressive strength. In addition, carbon black (CB)‐containing foam had uniform, large foam cells, comparatively high density, higher compressive strength, and low water absorption. Moreover, a high CB content gave shorter extinguishing time for PU foam. The PU foams were investigated for buoyancy and compared with a commercial PU foam buoy. The commercial buoy had lower density, providing better‐floating performance than PU foam. Interestingly, CB_8 had an elevated density, but low water absorption rate, similar to the commercial buoy PU foam. The investigations showed that the PU foam from MPO is eco‐friendly, and the buoyancy performance of that foam is improved on adding TPP or CB.

Honeycombed pomegranate-like sludge ceramsite particles: Preparation with fly ash floating beads as the pore-forming template and performance optimization

Ceramsite used in construction and building are typically limited by high water absorption rates, the contradiction between lightweight and high strength, and severe performance fluctuations. This can be attributed to the fact that ceramsites are currently prepared by high-temperature sintering expansion, wherein viscosity and surface tension of the liquid phases shall perfectly match with the gas generation rate. On the other hand, sand washing sludge and fly ash are common solid wastes in construction and building and their environmentally friendly disposal are of great significance. In this study, honeycombed pomegranate-like sludge ceramsites with low density (packing density = 733.2–968.3 kg/m3), high strength (cylinder compressive strength = 11.2–18.8 MPa), and low water absorption rate (one-hour water absorption rate = 1.2–2.8 %) were prepared with sand washing sludge and fly ash floating beads as the raw material and the pore-forming template, respectively. Also, the effects of particle size and content of fly ash floating beads on the structure and performance of the as-prepared ceramsite were investigated. The results indicated that the pore structure of the as-prepared ceramsite was directly dependent on size and content of the fly ash floating beads, suggesting that the performance of the as-prepared ceramsite can be customized by tuning size and content of the beads. Additionally, lightweight aggregate concrete prepared by using the as-prepared ceramsites exhibited improved 7-day and 28-day compressive strengths and reduced thermal conductivity compared with concrete prepared by using commercially available ceramsites. Overall, this study presents the preparation of ceramsite particles with both high strength and low density by using fly ash and sand washing sludge, both of which are abundant solid wastes in constructions, thus contributing to solid waste recycling in construction.

Numerical modeling of infrasounds radiation and propagation in hurricanes

Infrasound can be useful for monitoring natural or human-induced energetic events in the atmosphere. For high-energy sources, the infrasonic signals can propagate over large distances around the globe, given the low rate of atmospheric absorption. This study focuses on the numerical simulation of infrasound propagation in realistic large-scale three-dimensional (3D) environments. More precisely, we are interested in the simulation of infrasound, called microbaroms, which are radiated from extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes. The simulation of hurricane-induced microbaroms relies on three main components: i) a hurricane model describing the atmospheric wind and pressure fields, ii) a microbarom source model, and iii) an infrasound propagation model. 3D simulations have been performed on a rectangular mesh. Azimuthal deviation caused by the hurricane and the stratified atmosphere can be seen in 3D. Further studies are needed to improve each model, and the correlation between them. The ultimate goal is to be able to simulate radiated infrasound propagation for any meteorological conditions.

Study on Production Characteristics and Change in Production Location of Pottery Excavated from DongOe-dong Site in Goseong

As a result of scientific analysis of 26 pottery excavated from the DongOe-dong site in Goseong, pottery with various firing degrees was confirmed, ranging from low-firing pottery with mica minerals detected to high-firing pottery with high-temperature minerals such as cristobalite and mullite detected. In addition, low-firing pottery has an absorption rate of 9.7∼25.8% and generally shows high saturation value. On the other hand, high-firing pottery has low absorption rate and saturation value, so the physical characteristics of the pottery show a high correlation with the group classified by XRD analysis. Pottery with a low firing degree commonly contains fine-grained mineral particles and has a similar composition of trace elements such as Rb, Ba, and Sr. And they were most abundantly excavated from the No. 1-1 moat. However it was confirmed that there is a difference in the production area because compositions of the rare earth elements are distributed in two areas in the graph. High&intermediate-firing pottery samples are observed to have a vitrified base matrix and relatively less temper minerals. And their contents of Rb, Sr, and Ba are significantly different from low-firing pottery. In the composition of rare earth elements, they are all distributed in same area as one of the separated areas of low-firing pottery, so it is highly likely these pottery were produced in the same or nearby production region regardless of the firing degree. As a result of checking up the composition of rare earth elements according to the archaeological chronology of pottery, it is estimated that there was a change in the production region of the pottery introduced into the DongOe-dong site around 250 AD.

Production of high-strength eco-conscious ceramics exclusively from municipal solid waste

This research investigated the application of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWIFA), municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA), and construction waste residue (CWR) as raw materials for the comprehensive conversion into municipal solid waste ceramics employing the SiO2-Al2O3-CaO-MgO (8 wt%) phase diagram. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the addition of MSWIFA and sintering temperature on important ceramics properties, including linear shrinkage, water absorption, sintering range, and flexural strength. Additionally, relationships were established among these physical parameters using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The thermal behavior of the mixture was analyzed through automatic slag melting point tester and TG-DSC techniques. Furthermore, characterization of the crystalline phase transition and microstructure of sintered samples was performed by XRD, Factsage, and SEM. The results showed that both the addition of MSWIFA and the sintering temperature significantly influenced the crystal phase composition of the sintered ceramics. Moreover, the addition of MSWIFA and the sintering temperature had a significant influence on the pore structure of the ceramics. These ceramics exhibited exceptional properties, such as the extremely low water absorption rate of 0.08 % and the remarkable flexural strength of 124.78 MPa. Ceramics performance indicators were far higher than the requirements of China's national standard GB/T4100-2015. The sintering range had the capability to attain 30 °C, guaranteeing the feasibility of practical manufacturing processes. Furthermore, leaching concentration tests conducted on additive-free ceramic samples reveal a low risk of heavy metal contamination, as the heavy metals were effectively solidified within the crystalline and amorphous phases of the ceramics. The comprehensive utilization of MSWIFA, MSWIBA, and CWR for the production of fully solid waste ceramics not only yields cost reduction benefits but also promotes efficient utilization, presenting a feasible and highly promising approach to sustainable waste management.

Efficacy and Safety of Mebendazole in the Treatment of Intestinal Helminth Infections

Mebendazole was introduced in 1971 and is not soluble in water or other organic solvents, it is also not absorbed from the intestinal tract in a high-fat context. Both albendazole and mebendazole have a low rate of absorption in the human intestine. These drugs primarily target parasites in the stomach's lumen, and their metabolites are effective against parasites in the stomach's muscles and tissues. For instance, albendazole sulfoxide is the primary metabolite that possesses anthelmintic properties. Metabolites of mebendazole are expelled in the urine. Both drugs negatively affect the function of microtubules in parasites and mammalian cells, this results in the depletion of the parasites' glycogen stores. Current helminth control strategies involve periodic deworming with albendazole or mebendazole. However, concerns about drug resistance and the persistence of high prevalence rates suggest the need for additional strategies, such as improved water, sanitation, and hygiene, and optimized treatment regimens. Albendazole and mebendazole are highly effective against Ascaris lumbricoides, with a single dose of albendazole showing a cure rate of 96% and mebendazole showing a cure rate of 92.3%. Mebendazole's efficacy against hookworms varies, but a recommended dosing regimen improves effectiveness. Mebendazole's effectiveness against Trichuris trichiura depends on the dosing regimen. It is less effective against hymenolepiasis, where praziquantel is preferred. Mebendazole has also been used to treat Giardia lamblia infections. In summary, STH infections are a significant health issue, and albendazole and mebendazole are commonly used drugs for treatment. However, there is a need for additional strategies to address drug resistance and improve treatment efficacy. Mebendazole has potential side effects and should be used with caution, especially during pregnancy.

Soybean protein “mechanically interlocked” bonding of polysaccharide and MXene to improve the strength and toughness of biomass adhesive

Simultaneously improving the strength and toughness of soybean protein adhesives is a huge challenge. The multi-scale enhancement strategy proposed in this study introduced MXene nanosheets and oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) to improve mechanical properties. The polymer network framework with high crosslink density dissipates energy by restricting the slip of the SPI molecular chains, and MXene act as stress dispersers in the polymer network in order to solve the challenge of the strength-toughness balance. The prepared biomass-based adhesives with high adhesion (dry/wet shear strength 1.93 MPa/1.33 MPa), high toughness (adhesion work 810.9 mJ), high thermal stability, high residual rate (92.53 %), low moisture absorption rate (11.18 %), and long storage time (12 d). Additionally, the application of SOM-5 adhesive reduces the burden of petrochemical resource extraction for adhesive production and contributes to the sustainable development of the wood industry. Most importantly, it presents an adoptable strategy for resolving the tension between strength and toughness of composite materials.

Light green leaf sectors of variegated Dracaena fragrans plants show similar rates of oxygenic photosynthesis tо that of normal, dark green leaf sectors

Adaptation and functional significance of chlorophyll deficit in the light green leaf sectors of variegated plants are little known. Efficiency of photosystem II for dark and light adapted states (Fv/Fm and ΔF/Fm’) and fluorescence decrease rates (Rfd) of light green leaf sectors of Dracaena fragrans L. were studied by methods of PAM-fluorometry and video registration. In addition, white light reflectance and transmittance of these leaf sectors were measured using an integrating sphere. Absorption was calculated from reflectance and transmittance. Net CO2 assimilation rates (PN) were measured using a flow chamber and photolytic O2 evolution rates (PAYO2) were studied by a novel method of Fourier photoacoustics which is insensitive to respiration, photorespiration and other processes of O2 uptake. All the photosynthetic parameters (Fv/Fm, ΔF/Fm’, PN and PAYO2) were found to be very close between light green and normal green leaf sectors, whereas chlorophyll content and light absorption were 7.5-fold and 1.47-fold different respectively. Contradiction between low chlorophyll absorption and high (as in normal green sectors) rate of oxygenic photosynthesis in light-green sectors was proposed to be a consequence of different contribution of cyclic electron transport around PSII (CET-PSII) and/or around PSI (CET-PSI) in the total photosynthesis occurring in these sectors. Particularly, it cannot be excluded, that some part of CET activity occurring in normal green leaf sectors may be lost in the light green sectors retaining the same linear (non-cyclic) electron transport (LET) activity as in normal green sectors.

Study on CaO-based materials derived from steel slag for solar-driven thermochemical energy storage

The calcium looping (CaL) technique, renowned for its exceptional ability to withstand high temperatures and remarkable heat storage capacity, perfectly complements 3rd generation concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. However, the poor cycling stability and low spectrum absorption rate of CaO obstruct system efficiency. In order to tackle these problems, we impregnated steel slag with acetic acid and doped Mn to create a novel CaO-based energy storage material. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and fixed-bed cycling of the material revealed that the material has outstanding cyclic heat storage properties. Compared to CaO, the material has an 85 % higher initial adsorption rate, 73 % higher 30-cycle energy storage density, and 9.5 times higher average light absorption. Spherical pellets were prepared for industrial applications through the extrusion-spheronization method. The energy storage density for 30 cycles was reduced by 10.26 % for the pellets compared to the powder material, but the average light absorption rate was improved. The compressive strength of the composite pellets was 8.4 times higher than the dolomite pellets. It was found that the light absorption capacity of the material increased with the number of cycles, which was attributed to the migration of Mn and Mg from the interior to the surface. Finally, the excellent photothermal conversion capability of the new composite material was verified by the photothermal conversion test. Therefore, Mn-doped CaO-based composite material derived from steel slag is promising for application in the next-generation CaL-CSP system.

Microstructural behavior of mortars containing thermo-activated crushed demolition residue (TCDR)

The construction industry has been constantly expanding and is, consequently responsible for a high consumption volume of natural raw materials and for generating large amounts of waste. In detriment of this scenario, this research proposes the reuse of Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW), especially that from plaster for making mortars. The residue was thermo-activated at 650 °C for a period of 2h, a heating rate of 10 °C/min, it was crushed in a jaw crusher and passed through an ABNT N° 16 sieve. The mortars were prepared with a (cement:sand) ratio of 1:6 by mass, the sand was partially replaced by the residue in proportions of 0, 10, 20 and 30%, using Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Tests were carried out on consistency index, mass density, incorporated air content, isothermal calorimetry, water retention, mass density in the hardened state, flexural strength, compressive strength, water absorption and void index, in addition to testing techniques characterization, such as laser granulometry, pozzolanic activity using the Modified Chapelle method and Lúxan method, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) as well as Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP). It was possible to observe that the residue has amorphous phases, through XRD and heterogeneous nucleation of smaller particles, proven by the calorimetry test, contributing to the increase in mechanical strength. The results indicate that the mixture with 30% replacement achieved a greater increase in mechanical strength, lower absorption rates and consequently, a reduction in the distribution of pore sizes.

An eight-year retrospective study on the clinical outcomes of laser surface-treated implants

PurposeTo retrospectively evaluate peri-implant bone loss and health status associated with the long-term use of laser surface-treated implants.MethodsFor control study, total of 23 titanium ASTM F136 grade 23 implants were placed in the edentulous molar area of the mandible. When the Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) ≥ 70 and insertion torque value (ITV) ≥ 35–50 Ncm at the insertion site, an immediate provisional restoration was connected to the implant within a week after surgery. The definitive restorations were placed 2 months after surgery for all implants. 13 implants were immediately loaded, while 10 implants were conventionally loaded. For comparative study, Radiographs were taken from third years for and then annually for the subsequent eight years to monitor marginal bone loss.ResultsAfter eight year of implant installation, the average change in vertical bone loss was 0.009 mm (P < 0.001), while the average change in horizontal bone loss 8 year after implant placement was 0.026 mm (P < 0.001). The mean marginal bone loss was < 0.2 mm on average.ConclusionsIn this retrospective study, laser-treated implants exhibit a low rate of bone absorption around the implants.

Optimization and Transfollicular Delivery of Finasteride Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles Laden Carbopol Gel for Treatment of Hair Growth Stimulation

Background: One of the frequent side effects of cancer treatment is chemotherapyinduced alopecia (CIA). The psychological discomfort of hair loss may cause patients to stop receiving chemotherapy, lowering the therapy's effectiveness. Finasteride (FNS), a JAK inhibitor, has shown tremendous promise in therapeutic uses for treating baldness. Still, systemic side effects constrained its broad use in alopecia from oral treatment and a low absorption rate at the target site— PLGA-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) for topical delivery of FNS—to overcome these issues. Methods: The nano-precipitation process was used to make FNS-NPs. The independent variables (stabiliser and polymer) were PLGA (X1), P407 (X2), and sonication time (X3). Based on the point prediction method obtainable by the Box Behnken design software, the best FNS-NPs composition was selected. Entrapment efficiency, particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index were used to characterize the nanoparticles. Using Carbopol as a polymer, the ideal FNS-NPs composition was further transformed into a gel formulation. The prepared topical gel formulation (FNS-NPs gel) included gel characterization, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), invitro and in vivo studies. Results: Optimized FNS-NPs (F13) had particle sizes of 175.26±3.85 nm, 0.241±0.11 PDI, 71.04±1.35 % EE, and -33.27±0.39 surface charges. There is no interaction between the drug and the excipients, according to FTIR studies. The FNS were visible in the X-ray diffractogram enclosed in a polymer matrix. The developed FNS-NPs gel formulation shows ideal drug content, viscosity, pH, and spreadability. According to the release and permeation investigation findings, FNS released slowly (68.73±0.94%) but significantly permeated the membrane more than before. In a dose- and time-dependent manner, the produced nanoparticles considerably (p≤0.05) increased FNS delivery compared to the FNS solution. The FNS-NPs gel therapy significantly increases the quantity and size of hair follicles dose-dependently. The effectiveness of the 1% FNSNPs gel and the 2% minoxidil solution were comparable. After 72 hours, the FNS-NPs gel showed no signs of skin irritation. The outcomes, therefore, showed that the trans follicular delivery mechanism of the FNS-NPs gel might stimulate hair growth. Conclusion: These findings imply that the innovative formulation that has been developed has several beneficial properties that make it suitable for FNS dermal delivery in the treatment of alopecia areata

Compósito à base de polipropileno reciclado para utilização em instalações agrícolas

ABSTRACT This study aims to develop an eco-friendly, recyclable, and cost-effective composite material for use in storage sheds and machine workshops. The new composite consists of stone dust and gravel bricks bonded by recycled polypropylene through heat treatment. The main focus of this study is to determine the effects of varying polymer proportions on the resistance and permeability properties of the studied composite, intending to achieve optimal properties, i.e., high resistance and low permeability. To do this, the 2² factorial arrangement was employed, comprising four treatments along with three central points, each replicated three times. The data was statistically analyzed at a 95% confidence level from an adapted methodology. This involved tests of compression strength, 3-point bending strength, Los Angeles abrasion, and water absorption by immersion, in which three percentages of polymer content (PC) - 15, 25, and 35% - and aggregates (fine sand, medium sand, and coarse sand - FS, MS, and CS) were used to prepare the composite. The developed composite was deemed suitable for use in storage warehouses and machine workshops, as it presented physical and mechanical appropriate characteristics, i.e., a low water absorption rate and high resistance to compression and abrasion, in addition to being an environmentally friendly composite.

Sustainable Dynamic Wrinkle Efficacy: Non-Invasive Peptides as the Future of Botox Alternatives

Dynamic wrinkle reduction continues to challenge aesthetic dermatology, predominantly addressed through Botulinumtoxin (Botox) injections. Despite Botox’s robust efficacy with up to an 80% reduction in wrinkle visibility within just one week, its invasive administration and specific mechanism of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex inhibition prompt the exploration of safer, non-invasive alternatives. This review critically assesses recent innovations in non-invasive effects, with a focus on peptides and botanical extracts that exhibit a diverse array of mechanisms including SNARE complex inhibition, modulation of calcium and sodium channels, and interactions with acetylcholine receptors, contributing to their effectiveness in muscle relaxation on dynamic wrinkle approaches. Noteworthy peptides such as Argireline and SYN-Ake replicate the neuromodulatory effects of Botox, achieving up to a 52% reduction in wrinkles within four weeks without injections. Moreover, botanical extracts meet the rising demand for clean beauty solutions by enhancing skin elasticity and health through gentle yet potent mechanisms. However, the main concern with peptides is their low absorption rate, with only six clinical validations regarding Botox-like peptide anti-wrinkle efficacy available. These advancements not only deepen our understanding of cosmetic dermatology but also significantly influence market dynamics and consumer behavior, underscoring their pivotal role in redefining the future landscape of anti-aging effects.

Critical Review on the Effect and Mechanism of Realgar Nanoparticles on Lymphoma: State of the Art on In-Vitro Biomedical Studies.

Lymphoma is a malignant tumor caused by abnormal proliferation of lymphocytes in the lymphatic system. Conventional treatments for lymphoma often have limitations, and new therapeutic strategies need to be explored. Realgar is an ancient Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments due to its therapeutic potential for various diseases, including cancer. However, it is a time-consuming waste and has a low absorption rate in the gastrointestinal tract, so it has the disadvantages of oral dose, potential toxicity, and low bioavailability. Recently, the development of nanotechnology has promoted the nanization of realgar particles, which have better physicochemical properties and higher bioavailability. The antitumor activity of Realgar nanoparticles against lymphoma has been demonstrated in preclinical studies. Realgar nanoparticles exhibit cytotoxic effects by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting the growth and proliferation of lymphoma cells. Moreover, these nanoparticles exert immunomodulatory effects by enhancing the activity of immune cells and promoting the cytotoxicity of T lymphocytes against lymphoma cells. Additionally, realgar nanoparticles have been shown to inhibit tumor angiogenesis, thereby restricting the blood supply and nutrient availability to lymphoma cells. Despite promising preclinical data, further research on the role and mechanism of realgar nanoparticles in the treatment of lymphoma remains to be studied. Moreover, the translation of these findings into clinical practice requires rigorous evaluation through well-designed clinical trials. Realgar nanoparticles hold great potential as a novel therapeutic approach for lymphoma, and their development may contribute to the advancement of precision medicine in the field of oncology.

Tyrosine phenol-lyase inhibitor quercetin reduces fecal phenol levels in mice.

Tyrosine phenol-lyase (TPL), which is expressed in intestinal bacteria, catalyzes the formation of phenol from the substrate L-Tyr. Bacterial metabolite phenol and the sulfate conjugate (phenyl sulfate) are known as a type of uremic toxins, some of which exert cytotoxicity. Therefore, pathologically elevated phenol and phenyl sulfate levels are strongly implicated in the etiology and outcome of uremia. In this study, we explored the inhibitory effects of dietary polyphenols on TPL-catalyzed phenol production using a TPL activity assay. Quercetin, one of the most popular polyphenols, exhibited the strongest inhibitory activity (Ki = 19.9 µM). Quercetin competitively inhibited TPL, and its activity was stronger than that of a known TPL inhibitor (Tyr analog; 2-aza-Tyr, Ki = 42.0 µM). Additionally, quercetin significantly inhibited phenol production in TPL-expressing bacterial cultures (Morganella morganii and Citrobacter koseri) and Tyr-rich (5%) diet-fed C57BL/6J mouse feces. Our findings suggest that quercetin is the most promising polyphenol for reducing phenol levels. Because quercetin has a low gastrointestinal absorption rate, TPL inhibition in the intestinal tract by quercetin may be an effective strategy for treating uremia.

Bridging gap between agro-industrial waste, biodiversity and mycelium-based biocomposites: Understanding their properties by multiscale methodology

A multiscale methodology approach was employed integrating microscopic analysis of the biomasses present in the biocomposite (lignocellulosic and fungal) to understand their macroscopic response in terms of physical and mechanical properties. Colombian native strain Ganoderma gibbosum, used for the first time in the production of biocomposites was cultivated on peach palm fruit peel flour and sugar cane bagasse wet dust, individually and as a mixture. During the solid-state fermentation were monitoring the change that occurred in substrate composition such as glucan, arabinoxylan, and lignin through biomass compositional analysis using structural carbohydrates and lignin. Moreover, fungal biomass formation was monitored via scanning electron microscopy. The resulting biocomposites underwent characterization through flexural and water absorption tests. Our findings indicated that G. gibbosum primarily degraded the polysaccharides in each of the evaluated media. However, lignin degradation to 15.06 g/g was only observed in the mixture biocomposite of peach palm fruit peel fluor and sugarcane bagasse wet dust in a ratio of 1꞉1, accompanied by a reduction in glucan and arabinoxylan weights to 26.1 and 7.72 g/g, respectively. This polymer degradation, combined with a protein-rich source in the mixture biocomposite of peach palm fruit peel fluor and sugarcane bagasse wet dust in a ratio of 1꞉1, facilitated the production of a fungal skin (biological matrix) with a high hyphal density of 65 %, contributing to Young's modulus of 3.83 MPa, elongation without failure, and low water absorption rate in this biocomposite (55 %). The lignocellulosic biomass in the culture media acted as a filler for mechanical interlocking with the matrix and provided attachment points for water absorption. Thus, our study establishes a connection between the microscopic scale and the macroscopic behavior of this biocomposite, assessing structural carbohydrates and lignin analysis during solid-state fermentation (SSF), laying the groundwork for a more customized design of mycelium-based biocomposites. Finally, this study demonstrates the possibility of tailoring nutrient composition by designing their culture media to obtain physical-mechanical properties according to the application requirement.

A Comprehensive Study on the Production and Characterization of Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Plastic Films from Dent Corn Starch

The increasing demand for eco-conscious and sustainable biomaterials has propelled the exploration of alternatives to petroleum-derived materials. This study delves into the utilization of dent corn (Zea mays L.) starch as a renewable resource for crafting biodegradable packaging solutions. The physicochemical properties of dent corn starch were meticulously assessed through a series of preparation steps, encompassing washing, cutting, grinding, drying, and pulverizing. Despite the inherent variability in dent corn sourced from local markets, the resulting starch exhibited commendable characteristics, including a pH of 7.02, moisture content of 6.50%, ash content of 0.20%, bulk density of 0.47 g/ml, gelatinization temperature of 61.2 ˚C, protein content of 2%, and a yield of 64%. Subsequently, employing the casting method, bioplastic films were synthesized using starch powder, water, and glycerol as a plasticizer. A comprehensive evaluation of the chemical, mechanical, solubility, and biodegradability properties of the films ensued. Remarkably, the films demonstrated notable values for tensile strength (2.58 MPa), elongation at break (24%), and film thickness (1.4 mm), alongside exhibiting low absorption rates in various media and remaining insoluble in solvents, even at elevated temperatures. Notably, the influence of glycerol content on the tensile strength and biodegradability of the films was elucidated through a least squares model, underscoring its pivotal role. These findings highlights the potential of dent corn starch as a viable alternative for the development of biodegradable packaging materials, despite the variability inherent in its sourcing from local markets. The study significantly contributes to ongoing endeavors aimed at fostering sustainability and reducing reliance on petroleum-derived materials, aligning with the escalating environmental consciousness.

A numerical investigation of novel segmented PCM blocks filled with different phase change material cooling for Lithium-Ion battery

Phase Change Material (PCM) embedded systems have gained attention for their latent heat absorption and release capabilities in Battery Thermal Management. However, conventional PCM-cooled battery systems often exhibit low heat absorption rates, resulting in temperature irregularities and uneven melting. To overcome these challenges, this study introduces an innovative cooling system using segmented PCM blocks, each storing different types of PCMs. The PCM block is divided into three or four parts, employing distinct PCMs based on the observed heat propagation pattern during high-current discharging. A three dimensional numerical investigations are conducted in ANSYS Fluent using the MSMD battery model to explore three segmented and four segmented PCM blocks, comparing them with a single PCM block. The parametric variations considered in this work include varying PCM block thickness, PCM types, and discharging rates. Results show that increasing PCM thickness controls temperature rises but also raises the system’s weight. The study demonstrates that incorporating different PCMs in four segmented block maintains battery temperature at 319 K, with uniform distribution across the surface. The proposed PCM-based battery thermal management system reduces system weight by 17.84 % and enhances PCM heat absorption by 32.59 % compared to a conventional PCM block system when discharging at a high current rate of 4C to stay within the safe operating temperature range.