Mean Droplet Size Research Articles

Nanoemulsion and Topical Cream for Delivery of Tocotrienol-rich fraction, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, and Carotenes: Formulation and in vitro Release

Objectives of this study were to encapsulate tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF), ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (AT) and carotenes into nanoemulsion, incorporate the formulated nanoemulsion into moisturizer cream, and characterize the formulated nanoemulsion and cream. A stepwise factorial design methodology was used to screen the nanoemulsion’s ingredients and preparation parameters. With mean droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), creaming index (CI) and irritational potential as evaluation criteria, the ideal nanoemulsion formulation comprised deionized water, red palm oil (RPO) and Kolliphor® EL in a ratio of 20.00:6.25:73.75, fabricated using a high-shear mixer at 7000 rpm and 45°C for 10 min followed by a high-pressure homogenizer at 750 bars for five cycles. The nanoemulsion’s mean droplet size and PDI were 121.5 ± 1.8 nm and 0.178 ± 0.010, respectively. The cream formulation was then screened using a factorial experiment that considered lipid and emulsifier concentrations. The optimal cream formulation contained deionized water, formulated nanoemulsion, petrolatum, mineral oil, glycerol, emulsifying wax and carbomer 940 in a ratio of 66.8:10.0:7.5:7.5:5.0:3.0:0.2, showing the preferred shear-thinning behavior, excellent physical stability and high conclusiveness. The formulated cream exhibited Korsmeyer-Peppas and Weibull release kinetic mechanisms during the in vitro release. This study showed that the developed formulations were suitable for the topical delivery system for TRF, AT and carotenes.

Influence pathways of covalent and non-covalent interactions on the stability of deamidated gliadin-tannic acid-based Pickering emulsions.

This study aimed to elucidate the pathways through which covalent and non-covalent interactions between deamidated gliadin (DG) and tannic acid (TA) on influence the stability of Pickering emulsions. The interactions induced protein unfolding, as evidenced by increased ultraviolet absorption and a red shift in fluorescence emission. DG-TA composite nanoparticles effectively stabilized high internal phase emulsions, whereas DG nanoparticles alone did not. Covalent DG-TA nanoparticle stabilized Pickering emulsions (C-DGTAE) retained a consistent mean droplet size after 30 d of storage. Lipid hydroperoxide and malondialdehyde levels in C-DGTAE and N-DGTAE were reduced by 59.1%-69.5% and 38.9%-44.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the retention of β-carotene in the emulsions was significantly enhanced. All emulsions exhibited elastic behavior, characterized by higher G' than G″. Notably, N-DGTAE demonstrated the highest apparent viscosity, G' and G″, attributed to the connected nanoparticles around the droplets. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that C-DGTAE droplets possessed the thickest layer, corroborated by the highest interfacial nanoparticle content of 76% and an interfacial thickness of 441nm. These findings suggest that covalent interactions enhance the interfacial nanoparticle layer, while non-covalent interactions promote nanoparticle networking, providing valuable insights for optimizing the stability of Pickering emulsions.

Evaluation of Stability and In vitro Anti-Cancer Activity of Dihydroquercetin Nanoemulsion

Background: Dihydroquercetin (DHQ), also known as taxifolin, is a flavonoid commonly found in many plants. Dihydroquercetin has been documented to have powerful antioxidant activity and many beneficial properties for human health, especially its ability to inhibit certain types of cancer cells. However, its low solubility and bioavailability are major obstacles to biomedical applications. Moreover, DHQ is chemically unstable and quickly degrades when exposed to alkaline conditions. Objective: In the present study, a DHQ nanoemulsion formulation was prepared by Self Nano- Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SNEDDS) technique to overcome the above disadvantages. Methods: The obtained nanoemulsion system was evaluated for its micro-properties, stability, and in vitro cytotoxic activity against some cancer cells using tetrazolium dyes (MTS assay). Results: Measurement results showed that the DHQ nanoemulsion was successfully synthesized with typical mean droplet sizes from 9 to 11 nm, and revealed excellent stability over time. Dihydroquercetin in nanoemulsion form is more stable than the non-encapsulated form, as evidenced by the maintenance of droplet size in the nanometer range when dispersed in aqueous solution for up to 48 hours. This stability is particularly pronounced in both acidic and neutral environments. In vitro experiments on cytotoxic activities against A549, Hela, and HepG2 cancer cell lines indicated that the prepared DHQ nanoemulsion effectively inhibited the growth of all these cell lines with IC50 values (μg/mL) of 8.0, 20.4, and 29.5 respectively. Conclusion: From the detailed results above, it is evident that the solubility and bioavailability of DHQ can be improved by creating its nanostructure in the form of nanoemulsions. Furthermore, the nano form of DHQ carried within stable nanoemulsions exhibited better performance in inhibiting cancer cells compared to free DHQ. Therefore, further research is required to explore the development of cancer therapeutics utilizing nano DHQ emulsions.

Starch-based nanoformulation of rhizobium enhancing growth, nodulation, and yield in black gram

Black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) is a significant pulse crop due to its nutritional value and productivity within the Indian subcontinent. Pulses possess the inherent ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil through a symbiotic association with the Rhizobium, a genus of essential soil microorganisms that facilitate nitrogen fixation in legumes. However, conventional biofertilizers encounter challenges related to limited shelf life, reduced cellular viability, and inefficacy of carriers. This research investigates the encapsulation of Rhizobium using starch nanoparticles and sodium alginate to mitigate these drawbacks. The nanoformulations was assessed, with a mean droplet size and polydispersity index of 292 nm and 0.056, respectively. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of all functional components. SEM imaging illustrated a uniform distribution of the formulation over the seed coat. Release kinetics displayed an initial burst release, followed by controlled and sustained release phases. The nanoformulations effectively protects the cells from adverse conditions in soil with different pH levels. A pot culture experiment with Black gram was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the nanoformulations. The findings indicated significant enhancements in growth parameters, nodulation, and yield characteristics compared to the control and conventional treatments. The highest dosage of nanoformulation at the rate of 15ml/8Kg (T6) consistently surpassed other treatments, demonstrating improved shoot and root lengths, chlorophyll content, soluble protein, and enzyme activities. Treatment T6 gains the highest nodule count (approx. 100/plant) and maximized yield parameters. This investigation highlights the potential of Rhizobium nanoformulations in promoting plant growth, nodulation, and yield in black gram. It offers a promising strategy for sustainable agricultural practices and addresses the limitations of traditional biofertilizers.

Microalgae-loaded SPI-based monodisperse emulsions prepared by PREMIX membrane emulsification: Effect of pH and HHP on droplet size and droplet size distribution

Emulsions containing Chlorella vulgaris (CV), Arthrospira platensis (AP), Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) powders, or their combination as emulsifiers were prepared at 2 or 3 % protein concentration by intramembrane PREMIX membrane emulsification. Then, the effect of pH (3.5, no-change, 10) and HHP (0.1 and 200 MPa) on mean droplet size (MDS) and size distribution (SPAN) of canola oil in water emulsions was assessed. Emulsions with individual emulsifiers showed undesired MDS and SPAN at pH 3.5, while plant-microalgae emulsions presented better MDS and SPAN values at all pHs. Emulsions at pH 10 had better MDS and SPAN values. AP emulsion prepared at 3 % concentrations showed the highest improvement in MDS and SPAN when 200 MPa were applied. HHP had a positive effect when applied to CV-SPI and AP-SPI at 2 % protein concentration. However, an adverse effect was observed at 3 % protein concentration. Microalgae and plant emulsions with interesting properties can be obtained by pH and HHP treatment.

Physicochemical stability and controlled release of vitamin D3-loaded emulsions stabilised by whey protein isolate-basil seed gum conjugates

Aim The present study was conducted to produce a new carrier containing whey protein isolate-basil seed gum (WPI-BSG) conjugate to achieve superior physicochemical stability of emulsions containing vitamin D3 (Vit-D3). Methods Zeta-potential and particle size analysis, spectrophotometric method, encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity and dialysis bag method were used to examined physicochemical stability and Vit-D3 release from the emulsions. Results The conjugate-stabilised emulsion showed maximum encapsulation efficiency (87.05 ± 3.37% (w/w)) and loading capacity (5.43 ± 0.08% (w/w)) at the Vit-D3 concentration of 200 and 300 mg/kg. This emulsion also demonstrated good physical stability after 30 days of storage with the zeta potential and mean droplet size of −79.60 ± 0.62 mV and 1346.82 ± 5.95 nm, respectively. Additionally, the conjugate-stabilised emulsion had a maximum Vit-D3 retention (chemical stability) of 72.79 ± 3.58% after a 15-day storage period. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the conjugate-stabilised emulsion has a good stabilising capacity as a carrier for hydrophobic compounds such as Vit-D3.

Preparation and characterization of dressing-type emulsions formulated with hydrocolloids from the mango (Mangifera indica) peel

Mango is a popular tropical fruit known worldwide and mango peel is a waste product worthy of valorization. This study explores the stabilizing effect of hydrocolloids extracted from mango peel in dressing-type emulsions (DE). Emulsions stabilized with different ratios of mango (Mangifera indica) peel-derived hydrocolloids (PE) and guar gum (1 % wt. total concentration) were prepared and characterized: DE1 (0.25/075), DE2 (0.5/0.5), DE3 (0.75/0.25) and DE4 (1/0). Particle size distribution, ζ-potential, proximal composition, color, microstructure, and rheological properties were evaluated. All the samples showed similar proximal compositions. However, PE/guar gum ratio influences color parameters. For the microstructural analysis, Sauter's mean droplet size ranged from 6.41 to 11.11 µm. The ζ- potential values ranged from −18.03±0.21 to −16.97 mV. Emulsions exhibited shear thinning responses that can be well described by the Williamson model, and gel-like viscoelastic character with G’ higher than G”. The activation energy values (Eα) deduced from the application of an Arrhenius model to the viscous flow behaviour of the emulsions ranged from 108.46 to 143.44 Kj/mol. From the microstructural analysis and the rheological characterization, it can be inferred that PE favors the flocculation of the emulsion droplet in high concentrations. Overall, this research contributes to the sustainable exploitation of a mango waste material, such as the peel, in food emulsions.

Mean Droplet Size Prediction of Twin Swirl Airblast Nozzle at Elevated Operating Conditions

This study introduces a novel predictive model for atomization droplet size, developed using comprehensive data collected under elevated temperature and pressure conditions using a twin swirl airblast nozzle. The model, grounded in flow instability theory, has been meticulously parameterized using the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm. Through rigorous analysis, including analysis of variance (ANOVA), the model has demonstrated robust reliability and precision, with a maximum relative error of 19.3% and an average relative error of 6.8%. Compared to the classical atomization model by Rizkalla and Lefebvre, this model leverages theoretical insights and incorporates a range of interacting variables, enhancing its applicability and accuracy. Spearman correlation analysis reveals that air pressure and the air pressure drop ratio significantly negatively impact droplet size, whereas the fuel–air ratio (FAR) shows a positive correlation. Experimental validation at ambient conditions shows that the model is applicable with a reliability threshold of We1/Re1 ≥ 0.13 and highlights the predominance of the pressure swirl mechanism over aerodynamic atomization at higher fuel flow rates (q > 1.25 kg/h). This research effectively bridges theoretical and practical perspectives, offering critical insights for the optimization of airblast nozzle design.

Formulation and optimization of fisetin nanoemulsion for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in rats: Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic assessment

Fiestin (FS) is a polyphenolic flavonoid that possesses various neuroprotective effects by attenuating the levels of AChE enzyme, accumulated amyloid β, free radicals and neuroinflammation against Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is also helpful in reducing cellular senescence. However, FS suffers from a dissolution rate-limited oral bioavailability, and poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability leading to decreased therapeutic efficacy. To address these challenges, an attempt has been made to formulate a nanoemulsion (NE) of FS using Box-Behnken design (BBD) as optimization tool. The optimized NE contained 10 mg of FS, 164 μL of Capmul MCM EP/NF® (oil), 618 μL of T80 (surfactant), 218 μL of Transcutol P®, (co-surfactant) and 4000 μL of distilled water. The optimized formulation resulted in a mean droplet size, drug loading, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP) of 32 nm, 95.5 %, 0.26, and −15.99 mV, respectively. In the pharmacokinetic studies, FS-NE showed 9.2-fold increase in Cmax as compared to naïve FS. Relative oral bioavailability FS loaded in FS-NE was 842.93 %. Further the concentration of FS loaded in FS-NE was 8.81-fold higher in brain than naive FS. To evaluate pharmacodynamic effects, an aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced AD rat model was used. Cognitive functions were assessed using the Morris water maze and open field tests. The formulation showed dose-dependent effects. Rats treated with both, low and high doses of FS-NE (groups VI and VII) showed significant improvements (P < 0.001) in cognitive functions in AD-induced rats. The biochemical studies showed that FS-NE at both doses attenuated the levels of AChE enzyme, amyloid β, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Results of histopathology indicated that FS-NE attenuated the degeneration of neurons in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus parts of the brain.

Formulation and characterization of tea tree and jojoba oils nano-emulgel for in-vivo wound healing assessment

Cutaneous wounds are the most common surgical affections among living organisms worldwide, and their healing may be interrupted by several factors. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity of tea tree and jojoba oils nano-emulsions, additionally, investigating the cytotoxicity of the optimized formula was investigated on normal human lung fibroblast cells (WI-38) by MTT colorimetric assay, additionally its in-vivo wound healing. Nano-emulsions (NEs) were prepared using a high-energy method and characterized by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Zeta potential, droplet size, and poly dispersive index (PDI). Nano-emulgel (NEG) was formulated by mixing the standard NE with carbopol® 940. For in-vivo wound healing, thirty adult female albino rats were assigned into control, moist exposed burn ointment (Mebo), and NEG-treated groups. The healing was assessed by analysis of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and histopathology in healed wound tissues. All formulations demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity against Bacillus Subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. The CC50 of the optimized formula was 453.82± 3.87 µg/mL, with a mean droplet size of 105.4 nm and a zeta potential of −39.2 ± 2.1 mV. NEG enhanced wound closure compared to Mebo-treated and control groups. Also, MDA significantly decreased and SOD significantly increased in NEG and Mebo-treated groups compared to the control (p ˂ 0.05). TNF-α, and IL-1β significantly decreased in NEG and Mebo-treated compared to the control (p < 0.05). Histopathology revealed reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, rapid epithelization, and increased collagen deposition in NEG-treated wound tissues compared to the control and Mebo-treated wounds. In conclusion, the NEG containing tea tree and jojoba oils demonstrated significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound healing activities.

A Numerical Evaluation of Airborne Transmission Control through Saliva Modification

The present study explored the relationship between airborne transmission and the saliva fluid properties of a human sneeze. Specifically, we aimed to understand if altering the saliva and its relationship to droplet breakup and stability can affect its transmission characteristics. The study aimed to answer this question using computational fluid dynamics, specifically, a hybrid Eulerian–Lagrangian model with a Spalart–Allmaras, detached eddy simulation turbulence model. The effort focused on a scenario with a sneeze event within a ventilated room. The study found that for sneezes, secondary breakdown processes are important. Thicker saliva that increased the Ohnesorge number displayed a clear resistance to aerosolization due to stabilized secondary breakup, leading the bulk of the drops having high settling rates that are less likely to drive airborne transmission. For instance, the use of xanthum gum, which increased the saliva viscosity by 2000%, reduced the formation of aerosols. Additionally, another class of modifiers that reduce saliva content was studied, which was also effective in reducing airborne transmission drivers. Zingiber, which reduced the saliva content, reduced the formation of aerosols. However, when considering the overall reduction in droplet volume, saliva modifiers such as cornstarch, xanthum gum, and lozenges increased the mean droplet size by 50%, 25%, and 50%, respectively, while reducing the overall droplet volume by 71.6%, 71.2%, and 77.2%, respectively. Conversely, Zingiber reduced the mean droplet size by 50% but increased the overall droplet volume by 165.7%. Overall, for this type of respiratory event, this study provides insight into the potential for modifying saliva characteristics that may impact airborne transmission and could introduce new tools for reducing airborne pathogen transmission.

Molecular-Level Understanding of Phase Stability in Phase-Change Nanoemulsions for Thermal Energy Storage by NMR Spectroscopy.

Phase change materials (PCMs) are latent heat storage materials that can store or release thermal energy while undergoing thermodynamic phase transitions. Organic PCMs can be emulsified in water in the presence of surfactants to enhance thermal conductivity and enable applications as heat transfer fluids. However, PCM nanoemulsions often become unstable during thermal cycling. To better understand the molecular origins of phase stability in PCM nanoemulsions, we designed a model PCM nanoemulsion system and studied how the molecular-level environments and dynamics of the surfactants and oil phase changed upon thermal cycling using liquid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The model system used octadecane as the oil phase, stearic acid as the surfactant, and aqueous NaOH as the continuous phase. The liquid fraction of octadecane within the nanoemulsions was quantified noninvasively during thermal cycling by liquid-state 1H single-pulse NMR measurements, revealing the extent of octadecane supercooling as a function of temperature. The mean droplet size of the PCM nanoemulsions, measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS), was correlated with the liquid content of octadecane to explain phase instability in the solid-liquid coexistence region. Quantitative 13C single-pulse NMR experiments established that the carbonyl surfactant head groups were present in multiple distinct environments during thermal cycling. After repeated thermal cycling, the 13C signal intensity of the carbonyl surfactant head groups decreased, indicating that the surfactant head groups lost molecular mobility. The results explain, in part, the origin of phase instability of PCM nanoemulsions upon thermal cycling.

Comparing Low-Dose Carvedilol Continuous Manufacturing by Solid and Liquid Feeding in Self-Emulsifying Delivery Systems via Hot Melt EXtrusion (SEDEX)

Background/Objectives: This study compared two pilot scale continuous manufacturing methods of solid self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDSs) via hot melt extrusion (HME). Methods: A model poorly water-soluble drug carvedilol in low dose (0.5–1.0% w/w) was processed in HME either in a conventional powder form or pre-dissolved in the liquid SEDDS. Results: HME yielded a processable final product with up to 20% w/w SEDDS. Addition of carvedilol powder resulted in a non-homogeneous drug distribution in the extrudates, whereas a homogeneous drug distribution was observed in pre-dissolved carvedilol. SEDDSs were shown to have a plasticizing effect, reducing the HME process torque up to 50%. Compatibility between excipients and carvedilol in the studied ratios after HME was confirmed via DSC and WAXS, demonstrating their amorphous form. Solid SEDDSs with Kollidon® VA64 self-emulsified in aqueous medium within 15 min with mean droplet sizes 150–200 nm and were independent of the medium temperature, whereas reconstitution of Soluplus® took over 60 min and mean droplet size increased 2-fold from 70 nm to 150 nm after temperature increased from 25 °C to 37 °C, indicating emulsion phase inversion at cloud point. Conclusions: In conclusion, using Kollidon® VA64 and pre-dissolved carvedilol in SEDDS has shown to yield a stabile HME process with a homogenous carvedilol content in the extrudate.

Development and Characterization of Olaparib-Loaded Solid Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System (S-SNEDDS) for Pharmaceutical Applications.

This study aims to enhance the solubility of Olaparib, classified as biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS) class IV due to its low solubility and bioavailability using a solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS). For this purpose, SNEDDS formulations were created using Capmul MCM as the oil, Tween 80 as the surfactant, and PEG 400 as the co-surfactant. The SNEDDS formulation containing olaparib (OLS-352), selected as the optimal formulation, showed a mean droplet size of 87.0 ± 0.4 nm and drug content of 5.53 ± 0.09%. OLS-352 also demonstrated anticancer activity against commonly studied ovarian (SK-OV-3) and breast (MCF-7) cancer cell lines. Aerosil® 200 and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) K30 were selected as solid carriers, and S-SNEDDS formulations were prepared using the spray drying method. The drug concentration in S-SNEDDS showed no significant changes (98.4 ± 0.30%, 25℃) with temperature fluctuations during the 4-week period, demonstrating improved storage stability compared to liquid SNEDDS (L-SNEDDS). Dissolution tests under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions revealed enhanced drug release profiles compared to those of the raw drug. Additionally, the S-SNEDDS formulation showed a fourfold greater absorption in the Caco-2 assay than the raw drug, suggesting that S-SNEDDS could improve the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs like olaparib, thus enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, this study holds significance in crafting a potent and cost-effective pharmaceutical formulation tailored for the oral delivery of poorly soluble drugs.

Development and Investigation of a Nanoemulgel Formulated from Tunisian Opuntia ficus-indica L. Seed Oil for Enhanced Wound Healing Activity.

The aim of this study is to develop a nanoemulgel encapsulating a Tunisian Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L.) seed oil (PPSO) to assess, for the first time, the in vivo efficacy of this nanoformulation on wound healing. Phytocompounds of this oil have been reported in the literature as having powerful pharmacological activities. However, it remains poorly exploited due to low bioavailability. A nanoemulsion (NE) was designed by determining the required hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) and subsequently characterized. The mean droplet size was measured at 56.46 ± 1.12 nm, with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.23 ± 0.01 using dynamic light scattering. The zeta potential was -31.4 ± 1.4 mV, and the morphology was confirmed and assessed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These characteristics align with the typical properties of nanoemulsions. The gelification process resulted in the formation of a nanoemulgel from the optimum nanoemulsion. The high wound healing efficiency of the nanoemulgel was confirmed compared to that of a medicinally marketed cream. The outcomes of this research contribute valuable insights, for the first time, into the potential therapeutic applications of PPSO and its innovative pharmaceutical formulation for wound healing.

Berberine-loaded nanoemulsions as a natural food preservative; the impact of femtosecond laser irradiation on the antibacterial activity

There is a growing concern among food safety regulators, the food industry, and consumers about foodborne illnesses. To improve food safety and increase shelf life, it is necessary to use natural preservatives. Natural antimicrobials are safer than artificial preservatives because they can prevent microbial resistance while also meeting consumers' demands for healthier food. This study used Berberine to enhance the antibacterial activity of Satureja Khuzistanica essential oil nanoemulsions (SKEO NE) against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria, making them a promising option as preservatives. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to determine the optimized Berberine loaded SKEO NE (Berberine/SKEO NE), resulting in a mean droplet size of 88.60 nm at 6.91, 3.21, and 0.08% w/w of surfactant, essential oil, and Berberine, respectively. Berberine utilization in SKEO NE has led to an increase in antibacterial activity. The nanoemulsion samples significantly ruptured the S. aureus bacterial cell membrane, rapidly discharging cell contents. The use of a microfluidic system in tandem based on the conventional approach significantly accelerated this process. Enhancing the interaction between nanodroplets and the bacterial membrane can be achieved through the nanoemulsification process of EOs, which involves modifying their surface characteristics. This enhancement is particularly pronounced when employing microfluidic systems due to their substantial contact surface area. We investigated the potential of using femtosecond laser irradiation at a wavelength of 1040 nm to augment the antibacterial action of nanoemulsions. The combined treatment of laser and nanoemulsions significantly increased the antibacterial effect of nanoemulsions by approximately 15% for each bacterium, suggesting the potential utility of this treatment to bolster the antibacterial activity of nanoemulsions. Bacteria were trapped using optical tweezers for up to 20 min, with bacterial destruction observed starting at 3 min and exhaustive destruction evident after 20 min.

The Preparation of W/O/W High-Internal-Phase Emulsions as Coagulants for Tofu: The Effect of the Addition of Soy Protein Isolate in the Internal Water Phase.

Tofu quality is determined by a controlled coagulation process using a W/O/W emulsion coagulant. The impact of adding soy protein isolate (SPI) to the inner water phase on the stability of W/O/W high-internal-phase emulsions (HIPEs) and its application as a coagulant for tofu was assessed. No creaming occurred during 7-day storage with SPI concentrations up to 0.3%, while the emulsion droplets aggregated with 0.5% and 0.7% SPI. Emulsions containing 0.3% SPI maintained a constant mean droplet size after 21 days of storage and exhibited the lowest TURBISCAN stability index value. HIPE stability against freeze-thaw cycles improved after heating. HIPEs with SPI concentrations above 0.3% demonstrated an elastic gel-like behavior. The increased viscosity and aggregation of the protein around droplets indicated that the interaction among emulsion droplets could enhance stability. W/O/W HIPE coagulants significantly increased tofu yield, reduced hardness, and produced a more homogenous tofu gel compared to a MgCl2 solution. The HIPE with 0.3% SPI was found to be optimal for use as a coagulant for tofu.

Modeling polydispersed droplets in non-equilibrium condensing CO2 flows through turbine cascades using moment-based methods for efficient energy utilization

The efficiency of a power cycle is significantly influenced by the condensation process and the size distribution of the droplets, as these factors directly affect heat transfer rates and overall energy conversion efficiency. Accurate numerical modeling of thermodynamic non-equilibrium condensation is crucial for predicting droplet nucleation and growth in carbon dioxide flows. This study applies moment-based polydispersed droplet models, such as the quadrature method of moments, to account for the droplet size spectrum. Additionally, discrete methods based on a predefined shape of the polydispersed droplet size spectrum are utilized and evaluated to reduce numerical complexity. Our results demonstrate that polydispersed models provide higher accuracy compared to monodispersed models when simulating steam and supercritical carbon dioxide flows in converging–diverging nozzles. In turbine cascades, the choice of model significantly influences the predicted mean droplet size and efficiency. Isentropic efficiency evaluations reveal higher values for carbon dioxide compared to steam, with efficiencies of 94.6–95.8% versus 91.8–92.9% for wet cases and 96.5–97.2% versus 95.8–96.5% for dry cases. Notably, spontaneous droplet nucleation slightly affects the efficiency of the blade cascade in carbon dioxide flows, whereas steam flows experience efficiency reductions between 3.58% and 4.01%. This work advances the understanding of droplet condensation processes in turbine cascades, highlighting the superior performance of polydispersed models and providing quantitative insights into their impact on efficiency.

Moringa oleifera protein isolates as novel wall materials in the encapsulation of limonene: Physicochemical properties and its stability

The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficiency of Moringa oleifera protein isolates (MPI) as a wall material for encapsulating limonene. MPI (10 % concentration) formed stable emulsions with a mean droplet size of 1.63±0.07 μm and viscosity of 3.54±0.10 mPa·s. Characterization of microcapsules revealed encapsulation efficiency (94.77±0.05 %), yield (56.50±5.07 %), aqueous solubility (21.00±0.92 %), water activity (0.46±0.01), moisture (2.09±0.42 %), a light color, indicating suitability for incorporation into food products. MPI better protected limonene from light and temperature compared with soy protein isolate (SPI), commonly used in encapsulation. The Korsmeyer-Peppas model best fit the release behavior of MPI-limonene microcapsules (r2=0.959), indicating that the release was controlled by relaxation of polymer chains and erosion. The release constant (k0) implied that MPI (2.303) had a faster release rate of limonene than SPI (1.997). The findings indicate that MPI is a potential wall material for limonene encapsulation, with promising physicochemical properties and improved oxidative stability.

Mayonnaise produced by ultrasound-assisted emulsification using plant-based and “clean label” ingredients

Recently, nanoemulsions have gained significant attention for their improved stability and their wide range of potential uses in the food industry. This study aimed to create a novel type of mayonnaise with 23.6% (w/w) of oil using ultrasound-assisted emulsification for 6 min to incorporate lupin protein (3.4%, w/w) in the nanoemulsion stabilized by a combination of citrus fibre (2.5%, w/w) and psyllium (0.3%, w/w) or modified starch (3.0%, w/w). Nanoemulsions were produced using a cold-water bath and characterised by their stability and structural properties and used for the production of the mayonnaise. Results showed that the use of lupin protein led to stable nanoemulsions for 50 days stored at 4 °C. The smallest mean droplet size for lupin protein was 505.5 ± 43.5 nm and a polydispersity value 0.434 ± 0.045. Then, the selected nanomulsion was used to produce mayonnaise at room temperature. Mayonnaise were characterised in terms of its rheological and morphological properties, and through sensorial evaluation. The texture of the plant-based formulations was very close to one commercial mayonnaise, with similar resistance to deformation. The consistency (k) and flow index (n) were similar between samples and indicate that the samples are viscous due to the considerable value of k. A sensory analysis with a panel of consumers showed that the proposed formulations had a similar organoleptic profile compared to the benchmark sample. However, the tests showed that formulation developed with fibres had a slightly lower overall liking score.Ultrasound seems to be an effective strategy for developing plant-based nanoemulsions, foreseeing their use in the production of mayonnaise.