Release Capacity Research Articles

Gas-Releasing Polymer Tubesomes: Boosting Gas Delivery of Nanovehicles via Membrane Stretching.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as a gasotransmitter,not only plays a vital role in mediating many cellular activities but also manifests exciting applications in clinical therapy. However, one main obstacle in using H2S as a gaseous therapeutic agent is to realize on-demand storage and delivery of gas, and thus, it is of great importance to develop H2S-donating vehicle platforms. Although a variety of polymer-based gas-releasing carriers have been designed, almost all the systems are limited to spherical structures. Here we explore the role of polymer self-assembled morphologies, especially toward those non-spherical nanostructures, on the H2S release capacity. A kind of tubular polymersomes (i.e. tubesomes), formed by the membrane stretching of polythionoester-containing block copolymer vesicles, exhibit enhanced cysteine-responsive H2S-releasing behavior in contrast to their spherical counterparts. Moreover, we found that the amount and rate of H2S release from diverse polymersomes is relied on the extent of membrane elongation, which allows us to regulate the gas releasing kinetics through tailoring the membrane geometries. More importantly, it is demonstrated that the tubesomes as polymer-type H2S donors have better anticancer performance than those spherical polymersomes. This would inspire new possibilities to boost gas therapeutic efficacy through shaping the morphology of gas nanovehicles.

Prolactin levels increased by physical exercise correlate with platelet monoamine oxidase activity: Evidence linking platelet MAO with serotonin release capacity.

Lower platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity has consistently been associated with excessive risk-taking and general psychiatric vulnerability. How this peripheral measure can represent presumably centrally regulated complex behaviours is not clear but platelet MAO activity has been suggested to reflect the capacity of serotonin release in the brain. Secretion of prolactin is in part under serotonergic control and indicates serotonin release capacity. We have assessed release of prolactin and other exercise-induced hormones in response to strenuous physical exercise in twenty male subjects and examined its association with platelet MAO activity as measured radioenzymatically. Increase in prolactin levels was positively correlated with platelet MAO activity. Levels of cortisol, growth hormone and aldosterone were also raised by exercise, but these increases were not associated with platelet MAO activity. Unexpectedly, aldosterone levels before exercise were also in a positive correlation with platelet MAO activity. The finding that exercise-induced prolactin release is associated with MAO activity in platelets indirectly supports the notion that platelet MAO activity is a marker of central serotonin release capacity.

Evaluation of mucilages efficacy in the removal of a natural adhesive (gacha) from a canvas by ATR – FTIR. First results

Nowadays the use of gelled systems to remove natural glues from cultural artefacts is very common, as they allow the application of controlled humidity to sensitive surfaces. These cleaning systems can be of natural or synthetic origin. The simplest gelled systems are made by adding a gelling agent (such us Laponite® RD, xanthan gum or agar-agar) to the cleaning agent.The aim of this research is to evaluate, using Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR), the efficacy of hydrogels prepared from three commercial natural mucilages: guar, locust bean and konjac, in removing gacha from the reverse side of a canvas, and following the nowadays tendence that try to use eco-sustainable and bio-renewable cleaning materials. Gacha is an adhesive, made commonly with flour and animal glue as the main ingredients, used to line canvas paintings. The gels prepared were characterised by means of pH, electrical conductivity (EC), viscosity and aqueous phase release capacity. For this study, a mock-up of the canvas and the adhesive was prepared. Two application methods for the gels were tested: direct application and indirect using a physical barrier, with contact times of 15 and 30 min. The suitability of the mucilages in the elimination of the natural adhesive has been related to the decrease of the content of gacha on one side, and to the absence of gel residues after the cleaning process on the other, both parameters evaluated with ATR-FTIR analysis complemented with microscopic observations. The obtained results indicated that the removal of gacha was more effective with direct application, regardless of the mucilage used. On the other hand, mucilage residues are, in general, not significant, although in the case of direct application of guar and konjac for 15 min and locust bean and konjac for 30 min, the presence of mucilages traces were detected.

Investigation of Antibiotic‐Releasing Biodegradable Composite Bone Cements for Treating Experimental Chronic Maxillofacial Bone Infection

ABSTRACTChronic osteomyelitis of the maxillofacial bones (i.e., jaw bones) is a persistent infection that requires effective treatment. Because systemic antibiotics seldom reach necrotic areas to remove bone infection, local antibiotic carriers such as antibiotic‐loaded bone cement can be tried. It is critical to assess the biosafety and efficacy of two new antibiotic‐loaded biodegradable composite bone cements for treating chronic mandibular osteomyelitis, and their drug eluting efficiency and other relevant aspects prior to clinical trial. The physico‐mechanical properties, and drug release capacity of the cements were determined to be suitable for in vivo application. After inducing chronic osteomyelitis with Staphylococcal strains in 30 female rabbit mandibles, bioactive glass composite cement (0.5 g) and biphasic calcium phosphate composite cement (0.5 g) were implanted in 18 defects (nine/test group) for 84 days to compare the therapeutic efficacy with traditional therapy (control, debridement plus antibiotics in nine defects) using microscopic, micrographic, and radiological examination. Antibiotic concentrations in bone (vancomycin: 34.7–53.2 μg/g, tobramycin: 2.1–2.87 μg/g) after 21 days of installation for both cements were sufficient to eradicate pathogens without causing adverse events. In vivo tests suggest that cement groups outperformed (p < 0.05) traditional therapy in terms of infection clearance and osteoconduction. The gross histologic and micrographic scores of biphasic calcium phosphate composite cement (10.33 ± 0.58 and 8.33 ± 1.53, respectively) indicated that the cement barely surpassed (p > 0.05) the other composite cement (12.67 ± 1.53 and 10.0 ± 1.0, respectively). These findings emphasize the potential of antibiotic loaded composite cements as an effective treatment option for chronic maxillofacial osteomyelitis, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional therapy.

Conjugated Polymer-Based Multilayer Thin-Film Triboelectric Nanogenerators via Continuous Layer-By-Layer Coating Process.

This study introduces a flexible and scalable charge-trapping intermediate layer of conjugated polymeric film comprising [PANI/PEDOT:PSS]n between the [PVA/PDDA]n triboelectric layer and graphene-based [PVA/GNP-PSS]n electrode using the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly method. By varying the deposition layers, the optimal coating layout was identified as 2 and 8 bilayers of intermediate and triboelectric layers, respectively. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) fabricated with this optimal configuration achieved peak output voltage and current of 180 V and 9 μA, respectively, at 3 Hz and 5 N against PDMS. This represents a 63.6% increase in output voltage and a 20% increase in output current compared to the TENG without the intermediate charge-trapping layer, owing to the surface charge density reaching 61.5 μC/m2. Furthermore, an ultrathin, free-standing PANI-PEDOT:PSS film was encapsulated in a free-standing PVA-PDDA film, which resulted in a significant TENG output performance of 315 V. Inspired by these TENG results, we investigated the flame-retardant properties of the LbL [PANI/PEDOT:PSS]n coating on polyurethane foam (PUF) and demonstrated, through the open flame test, that the presence of the flame-retardant coating prevented flame flashover, melting, and dripping of the burning PUF. The coated PUF exhibited a lower heat release capacity of 402 J/g·K compared to neat PUF, and the thermal degradation of coated PUF resulted in the formation of 10.95 wt % residue in the TGA test. In addition, the TENG fabricated using the coated foam achieved a significant output performance. Therefore, this study contributes to future flame-retardant energy harvesting materials via sustainable LbL assembly.

Infant care transfers: simulating neonatal infant pathways and transfers across a neonatal network

Neonatal care for preterm and sick babies is organised into local areas around the United Kingdom, called Operational Delivery Networks. These networks coordinate between providers to ensure babies have the required care, close to home. There are three types of Neonatal Units offering distinct levels of needs-based care. The networks need to ensure that each unit operates at optimal cot levels, and the best quality care is provided. The possible impact of any changes to a network’s configuration on transfers and infant care, must be considered before any changes are implemented. Our simulation model reflects the infant pathways within a network allowing users to evaluate a variety of possible changes within the network. The model builds on previous literature by incorporating the ability to move an existing infant from a unit to release capacity as well as moving new arrivals between units. We also consider the potential environmental impact of the additional travel for parents visiting infants who have been transferred. We demonstrate how the model can be applied with a case network within which approximately 60,000 babies are born annually, a tenth of whom requiring some Neonatal Care. Of these infants, approximately 12% are transferred to another unit.

Evaluation of Dexamethasone-Eluting Cell-Seeded Constructs in a Preclinical Canine Model of Cartilage Repair.

In this 12-month long, preclinical large animal study using a canine model, we report that engineered osteochondral grafts (comprised of allogeneic chondrocyte-seeded hydrogels with the capacity for sustained release of the corticosteroid dexamethasone [DEX], cultured to functional mechanical properties, and incorporated over porous titanium bases), can successfully repair damaged cartilage. DEX release from within engineered cartilage was hypothesized to improve initial cartilage repair by modulating the local inflammatory environment, which was also associated with suppressed degenerative changes exhibited by menisci and synovium. We note that not all histological and clinical outcomes at an intermediary time point of three months paralleled 12-month outcomes, which emphasizes the importance of invivo studies in valid preclinical models that incorporate clinically relevant follow-up durations. Together, our study demonstrates that engineered cartilage fabricated under the conditions reported herein can repair full-thickness cartilage defects and promote synovial joint health and function.

Engineered cell membrane-cloaked metal-organic framework nanocrystals for intracellular cargo delivery

This investigation demonstrates the development and functionality of cell membrane-cloaked UiO-67 nanosized metal–organic frameworks (NMOFs), which are engineered for precise intracellular delivery of encapsulated cargoes. Utilizing the robust and porous nature of UiO-67, we enveloped these NMOFs with fusogenic cell membrane-derived nanovesicles (FCSMs) sourced from adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial (A549) cells. This biomimetic coating enhances biocompatibility and leverages the homotypic targeting capabilities of the cell-derived coatings, facilitating direct cytoplasmic delivery and avoiding endolysosomal entrapment. Our nanoplatform exhibited high efficiency in loading and releasing two model cargoes: cresyl violet (CV), a staining agent, and carboplatin (CbPt), a chemotherapeutic agent. This approach demonstrated substantial potential in drug delivery in both 2D cell cultures and 3D spheroids. This study underscores the enhanced cellular uptake facilitated by the engineered biomimetic shell and highlights the system’s capacity for sustained release, offering a promising strategy for targeted drug delivery.

Developing Innovative Apolar Gels Based on Cellulose Derivatives for Cleaning Metal Artworks.

The use of organic solvents, particularly those of a non-polar nature, is a common practice during cleaning operations in the restoration of polychrome artworks and metallic artifacts. However, these solvents pose significant risks to the health of operators and the environment. This study explores the formulation of innovative gels based on non-polar solvents and cellulose derivatives, proposing a safe and effective method for cleaning metallic artworks. The study is focused on a toxic apolar solvent, Ligroin, identified as one of the most widely used solvents in the cultural heritage treatments, and some "green" alternatives such as Methyl Myristate and Isopropyl Palmitate. The main challenge lies in overcoming the chemical incompatibility between non-polar solvents and polar thickening agents like cellulose ethers. To address this problem, the research was based on a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) system and Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs) to select appropriate surfactants, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the formulated gels. Stability, viscosity, and solvent release capacity of gels were analyzed using Static Light Multiple Scattering (Turbiscan), viscometry, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The efficacy of cleaning in comparison with Ligroin liquid was evaluated on a metal specimen treated with various apolar protective coatings used commonly in the restoration of metallic artifacts, such as microcrystalline waxes (Reswax, Soter), acrylic resins (Paraloid B44), and protective varnishes (Incral, Regalrez). Multispectral analysis, digital optical microscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and spectrocolorimetry allowed for the assessment of the gels' ability to remove the different protective coatings, the degree of cleaning achieved, and the presence of any residues. The results obtained highlight the ability of the formulated gels to effectively remove protective coatings from metallic artifacts. Cetyl Alcohol proved to be the most versatile surfactant to realize a stable and efficient gel. The gels based on Methyl Myristate and Isopropyl Palmitate showed promising results as "green" alternatives to Ligroin, although in some cases, they exhibited less selectivity in the removal of protective coatings.

A Bio-Based Polybenzoxazine Derived from Diphenolic Acid with Intrinsic Flame Retardancy, High Glass Transition Temperature and Dielectric Properties.

A bio-based benzoxazine monomer, diphenolic methyl ester hexafluoro diamino benzoxazine (DPME-HFBz), was successfully synthesized from diphenolic acid (DPA), and the chemical structure was successfully verified. The curing kinetics were studied via non-isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The activation energies of DPME-HFBz were calculated by Kissinger and Ozawa methods to be 136.15 and 139.92 kJ/mol, respectively, and the reaction order was calculated to be first order. Owing to the large number of hydrogen bonds after polymerization, poly(DPME-HFBz) presented an ultra-high glass transition temperature of 312 °C and a high initial decomposition temperature (350 °C under air and 345 °C under nitrogen). Because of the excellent charring ability (50.2% residue under nitrogen), the LOI value of poly(DPME-HFBz) was as high as 38%. Poly(DPME-HFBz) also exhibited a very low heat release capacity (HRC) of 90 J/(g·K). In addition, poly(DPME-HFBz) had a dielectric constant (Dk) of 1.88 at 1.5 MHz, which was much lower than the Dk of the reported low-dielectric polymers. This work provides an efficient and sustainable strategy for the synthesis of benzoxazine thermosetting materials with excellent comprehensive properties.

Temperature adaptive thermal storage/release wall based on dynamic spectral control

In response to global climate change, achieving sustainable development through energy conservation and emission reduction has become a common goal for humanity. In this work, we present a general model for computing the energy consumption and carbon emissions of building with low computational complexity and effort. Based on this model, we designed smart green building walls (SGBW), which consist of conventional walls and thermal storage/release films applied to their external/internal surfaces. These films, which incorporate thermochromic materials can adaptively adjust their radiation properties according to environmental temperature. At high temperatures, the thermal storage film(TSF) absorbs heat utilizing a solar absorptance of 0.604 and storing the heat within the wall. Conversely, at low temperatures, the thermal release film(TRF) unidirectionally releases heat into the interior with an infrared emissivity of 0.821. The simulation results indicate that SGBW has enhanced heat storage capacity by 18.7 % and increased heat release capacity by 30.4 % compared to conventional cement walls. In addition, calculations using the general model show that each square meter of SGBW can save 417 ∼ 805 kWh of electricity and reduces CO2 emissions by 225 ∼ 477 kg over the building’s lifecycle in various climatic zones, aligning closely with results obtained from the commercial software. Thus, this model not only simplifies intricate simulation processes but also serves as a guide for designing surface devices. The SGBW is anticipated to be particularly beneficial in buildings located in regions requiring nighttime heating, contributing significantly to indoor temperature regulation while simultaneously reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticles loaded with curcumin and ranibizumab for treating keratitis and anti-neovascularization

ABSTRACT The facilitation of targeted drug delivery within the ocular region presents a formidable challenge owing to its intricate physiological structure, which confers a biological barrier. This barrier is characterised by short retention times, diminished drug accumulation, and suboptimal bioavailability. To overcome these limitations, this study aimed to develop a hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticulate system encapsulating curcumin (CUR) and ranibizumab (RAN), designated as CUR-RAN@NPs with a uniform distribution of particle size and exhibited the capacity for sustained release of both CUR and RAN. The evaluation of biosafety and biocompatibility using cytotoxicity assays indicated that CUR-RAN@NPs are non-toxic and biologically compatible. Consequently, the CUR-RAN@NPs have promising potential for the advancement of ocular drug delivery systems. Finally, CUR-RAN@NPs demonstrated exceptional antibacterial activity and inhibition of neovascularization, thereby underscoring their therapeutic potential in ophthalmic applications.

Analysis and testing of temperature adaptability of large-scale body-mounted radiator

This paper addresses the issue of thermal stress release in large-scale body-mounted radiator for China space station telescope under extreme temperature differences of 80 °C. To address this challenge, an innovative floating combined stress release support mechanism is proposed. Initially, the stress release mechanism for the radiator is designed with an “orthogonal + parallel” layout based on key factors such as radiator size, operating conditions, and thermal stress. Subsequently, through this layout design, specific modeling is conducted for the fixed support point, line-degree-of-freedom release mechanism, and plane-degree-of-freedom release mechanism of the stress release support mechanism. Utilizing elastic mechanics theory, the deformation of the radiator cooling panel is determined to be 2.51 mm, leading to the design of a support mechanism with a release capacity of 5 mm. Finally, the effectiveness of the design is verified through finite element simulation analysis and experimental validation. Thermal-elastic simulation analysis reveals that the strain of the radiator cooling panel under an 80 °C temperature load is 2.75 mm, representing an error of 8 % compared to the theoretical calculation. The maximum stress of 315 MPa in the radiator cooling panel and 873 MPa in the support mechanism are less than the yield strength of the respective materials. Experimental results indicate that during a temperature change of 30 °C, the lateral deformation of the radiator is 0.85 mm, differing by 17.48 % from the simulation analysis result of 1.03 mm for a ΔT of 30 °C. These errors fall within an acceptable range and meet the design requirements. The results strongly confirm that the designed stress release support mechanism can effectively release thermal stress in large-scale body-mounted radiator while ensuring that the deformation of the radiator remains within the safe range of the sliding distance of the stress release support mechanism.

Synthesis of Urchin-Like Au@TiO2 Nano-Carriers as a Drug-Loading System Toward Cancer Treatment.

In recent years, improving the pharmaceutical properties of drug delivery for anti-cancer treatment has become increasingly important. This is necessary to address challenges related to absorption, distribution, and stability. One potential approach solution is to attach the drug to a carrier system, such as functional noble nanomaterials, in order to improve the control of drug release and stability. Core-satellite nanoparticles (CSN) with an anisotropic morphology have enormous potential for targeted drug delivery and cancer treatment because of their large surface area, exceptional stability, and biocompatibility. We used a simple seed-mediated approach to synthesize urchin-like gold nanoparticles (ULGNPs) with a high aspect ratio and a dense network of 49 nm-sized branches, using seed solution, silver nitrate, and ascorbic acid. The ULGNPs were synthesized without a surfactant and then encapsulated with thin layers of amorphous TiO2 (ULGNPs@TiO2), resulting in an average overall size of 136±15 nm with a 27.5 nm TiO2 layer. Doxorubicin (Dox) was chosen as a model drug to assess the distribution carrier ability of ULGNPs@TiO2 core-satellite nanoparticles. The results showed 86.5 % Dox loading and 72.3 % release capacity at pH 5. The anti-cancer ability of ULGNPs@TiO2-Dox was meticulously assessed using breast cancer MCF-7 cells in the WST-1 assay. The results revealed that ULGNPs@TiO2-Dox exhibited approximately 92 % toxicity in MCF-7 cells compared to the free Dox of 89.6 % at low concentrations (5 ppm). Based on the simulation results for loading ULGNPs@TiO2 with Dox, it was observed that a structure containing five layers of Au (111) with three fixed bottom layers and two relaxed top layers, in addition to six TiO2 (100) layers, was analyzed using Grimme's DFT-D3 dispersion corrections (Scheme 1). The density functional theory (DFT) adsorption energy (Eads) shows that the amorphous TiO2 increases the Dox loading activity of ULGNPs, with Eads=-3.85 eV, negatively higher than isolated ULGNPs (Eads=-2.87 eV) and TiO2 alone (Eads=-3.61 eV). This drug carrier design has the potential to revolutionize anti-cancer treatment.

Innovative biopolymers composite based thin film for wound healing applications

Efficient wound and burn healing is crucial for minimising complications, preventing infections, and enhancing overall well-being, necessitating the development of innovative strategies. This study aimed to formulate a novel thin film combining chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose, tannic acid, and beeswax for improved wound healing applications. Several formulations, incorporating chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose, tannic acid, and beeswax in various percentages, were utilized to deposit thin films via the solvent evaporation technique, Mechanical properties, morphology, antioxidant activity, antibacterial efficacy, and wound healing potential were evaluated. The optimized thin film (M4), composed of 2% chitosan, 2% carboxymethyl cellulose, and 1% tannic acid, along with 0.2% glycerol and 0.2% tween80, exhibited a thickness of 39.0 ± 1.14 μm and a tensile strength of 0.275 ± 0.003 MPa. It demonstrated a swelling degree of 283.0 ± 2.0% and a drug release capacity of 89.4% within 24 h. The film also showed a low contact angle of 40.5° and a water vapour transmission rate of 1912.25 ± 13.10 g m−2 0.24 h−1. FT-IR spectroscopy indicated that chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose were cross-linked through amide linkages, with tannic acid occupying the interstitial spaces and hydrogen bonding stabilizing the structure. Microscopy of M4 revealed a uniform morphology. The film exhibited strong antioxidant activity of (95.17 ± 0.02%) and antibacterial efficiency (80.8%) against S. aureus. In a rabbit model, the film significantly enhanced burn and excision wound recovery, with 90.0 ± 3.3% healing for burns and 88.85 ± 1.7% for infected wounds by day 7. Complete skin regeneration was observed within 10–12 days. The M4 thin film demonstrated exceptional mechanical properties and bioactivity, offering protection against pathogens and promoting efficient wound healing. These findings suggest its potential for further investigation in treating various infections and its role in developing novel therapeutic interventions.

An injectable dual-layer chitosan-alginate nano-hydrogel incorporated Cu(I)-isopolymolybdate-based metal-organic framework tailored for three-in-one anti-cancer nanotherapy

Designing potential agents and constructing hydrophilic nano-hydrogel platforms for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, especially for polyoxometalate-based metal-organic frameworks (PMOF), present both great desirability and significant challenges. A unique open porous Cu(I)-isopolymolybdate-based metal-organic framework (CCUT) has been self-assembled through ionothermal processes for in vivo synergistic anti-cancer therapy. The periodicity of Drugs@CCUT-1 (nano-crystals of CCUT after cation exchange and anti-cancer drugs upload) has been investigated by synchrotron wide-angle X-ray scattering, confirming the lattice structure unchanged. To mitigate toxicity, enhance stimuli-responsive drug delivery, hydrophilicity, and biocompatibility, an injectable dual-layer chitosan//alginate-based nano-hydrogel is developed to incorporate Drugs@CCUT-1. Potential interactions between the chitosan layer and the surface of CCUT-1 have been analyzed by Density Functional Theory (DFT). Furthermore, the nanoparticles Drugs@CCUT-1@Gel exhibit efficient type I photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) within the bio-window, effectively eradicating tumors in deep tissue. CCUT-1 generates a substantial amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), stimulating the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway and resulting in the expression of phase II enzymes, typically HO-1. CCUT-1@Gel not only demonstrates high capacity for anti-cancer drug upload and release, but also exhibits strong synergistic CDT/PDT in vivo anti-tumor efficacy. Hence, CCUT-1@Gel represents a promising in vivo nano-platform for synergistic chemotherapy (CT)/CDT/PDT three-in-one anti-cancer approach.

Soluplus-Stabilized Nimodipine-Entrapped Spanlastic Formulations Prepared with Edge Activator (Tween20): Comparative Physicochemical Evaluation.

Nimodipine (ND) is a vasodilator drug that is used for acute subarachnoid hemorrhage. It has a predominant hydrophobic property, causing low solubility and low bioavailability. Spanlastics are elastic nanovesicular systems based on non-ionic surfactants and edge activators as major components. The goal of this work is to formulate ND as spanlastic nanovesicles to improve the drug's bioavailability. Spanlastic formulations containing ND were prepared by using the ethanol injection method. The composition of the ND formulation includes Span60 as a nonionic surfactant and Tween 20 as edge activators in different ratios. Stabilizers like Soluplus are used in some formulations and then compared with other formulations without that stabilizer. The evaluation study involved Vesicle Size (VS), PolyDispersity Index (PDI), and Entrapment Efficiency (%EE). Then, the optimized formula was subjected to an in vitro release study and zeta potential, additionally comparing the optimized formula with the formula without soluplus in the same concentration in Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), solubility study, Deformability Index (DI), and stability study. The results indicated a significant shift in some evaluation criteria and a non-significant change in other characterizations, including the difference in polymer ratio, sonication time, and the existence of a stabilizer. The best formula, F27, was found to have VS, PDI, %EE, and zeta potential of 125.7±0.29 nm, 0.4744±0.002, and 85.43±0.17% and -20.01 ± 0.89 mV, respectively. The photomicrographs of the prepared spanlastic revealed a more uniform and spherical spanlastic, indicating a greater capacity for continuous release. With the addition of Soluplus, the formula became more stable in one month and had a higher deformability index. A significant shift was observed in both VS and PDI. As the stabilizer concentration increases, VS and PDI will decrease. The non-significant shift was noted in the %EE with the presence of a stabilizer. Soluplus has the ability to spontaneously self-assemble into spherical particles. Additionally, PEG 6000, as a component of Soluplus's structure, has a tendency to form strong or tightly bound bilayers and prevent aggregation and formulation of large vesicles. This study explains the accessibility of the formulation of ND as spanlastic nanovesicles by using the ethanol injection method. This spanlastic formulation contains non-ionic surfactants and edge activators (Span 40 and Tween 20) in varying ratios. To get a stable formula, Soluplus is added to prevent the development of crystals and agglomeration.

Cisplatin-functionalized dual-functional bone substitute granules for bone defect treatment after bone tumor resection

Invasive bone tumors pose a significant healthcare challenge, often requiring systemic chemotherapy and limb salvage surgery. However, these strategies are hampered by severe side effects, complex post-resection bone defects, and high local recurrence rates. To address this, we developed dual-functional bone substitute biomaterials by functionalizing commercially available bone substitute granules (Bio-Oss® and MBCP®+) with the established anticancer agent cisplatin. Physicochemical characterization revealed that Bio-Oss® granules possess a higher surface area and lower crystallinity compared to MBCP®+ granules, which enhances their capacity for cisplatin adsorption and release. In co-cultures with metastatic breast and prostate cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 and PC3) and bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs), cisplatin-functionalized granules and their releasates exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on cancer cells while having less impact on hBMSCs. Furthermore, investigations on the mechanism of action indicated that cisplatin induced significant cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 and PC3 cells, contrasting with minimal effects on hBMSCs. In a rat femoral condyle defect model, cisplatin-functionalized granules did not evoke adverse effects on bone tissue ingrowth or new bone formation. Importantly, local application of cisplatin-functionalized granules resulted in negligible cisplatin accumulation without signs of apoptotic damage in kidneys and livers. Taken together, we here provide hard evidence that cisplatin-functionalized granules maintain a favorable balance between biosafety, anticancer efficacy, and bone regenerative capacity. Consequently, loading granular bone substitutes with cisplatin holds promise for local treatment of bone defects following bone tumor resections, presenting a safe and potentially more effective alternative to systemic cisplatin administration. Statement of SignificanceCurrent treatments in combating malignant bone tumors are hampered by severe side effects, high local tumor recurrence, and complex bone defects after surgery. This study explores a facile manufacturing method to render two types of commercially available bone substitute granules (Bio-Oss® and MBCP®+) suitable for local delivery of cisplatin. The use of cisplatin-functionalized granules has shown promising results both in killing cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner and in aiding bone regeneration. Importantly, this local treatment strategy avoids the systemic toxicity associated with traditional chemotherapy to excretory organs. This dual-functional strategy represents a significant advancement in bone cancer treatment, offering a safe and more efficient alternative that could improve outcomes for patients following bone tumor resection.

Characteristics of constant pressure dehydrogenation and construction of linear diffusion model for solid hydrogen storage materials: A case study of TiMn1.5 alloy

Solid-state hydrogen storage is considered to be the most promising hydrogen storage technology because of its high volumetric capacity and good security. The process of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation of solid hydrogen storage materials can be characterized by a diffusion kinetic model, which can be used to guide the safe and efficient application of hydrogen storage materials. Currently, experimental study on the dehydrogenation characteristics under constant pressure outer boundary condition has not been carried out methodically, and a simple and reliable diffusion kinetic model under this condition should be established based on the experimental results. In this study, an experimental platform for hydrogen absorption and constant pressure dehydrogenation of solid hydrogen storage materials was independently established. The TiMn1.5 alloy and its interstitial hydrides were taken as the experimental research objects to conduct constant pressure dehydrogenation tests, and the dehydrogenation properties at different temperatures were systematically studied. The results show that the dehydrogenation rate decreases with the increase of testing time. The ultimate capacity of hydrogen release increases first and then decreases with the increasing temperature, reaching the maximum value at 30 °C. It is found that the diffusion coefficient increases linearly with time during constant pressure dehydrogenation process. On this basis, a linear diffusion kinetic model is established. The initial diffusion coefficient D0 calculated by the new model has a quadratic polynomial relationship with temperature, and the increase coefficient α of diffusion coefficient has a linear relationship with temperature. According to the mathematical expressions, the dehydrogenation process of TiMn1.5 alloy at different temperatures can be predicted. The research results can provide theoretical guidance for the safe, efficient and controllable application of hydrogen storage materials.

Multifunctional N-doped MXene/Ammonium polyphosphate reclaimed carbon fiber veil for enhanced electromagnetic shielding, flame retardance, and thermal efficiency

The application of carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRPs) in various industries significantly increased the need for sustainable recycling of carbon fiber (CF) to enhance economic efficiency. In this study, we prepared lightweight multifunctional flame-retardant Ti3CNTx/Ammonium Polyphosphate (APP)/Polyethyleneimine (PEI)/reclaimed carbon fiber (MArCF) nonwoven veils with superior Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) using a combination of multiple vacuum-assisted filtration, improved etching, and delamination strategies, followed by annealing treatments. The resulting MArCF nonwoven veils exhibited an impressive EMI SE of a maximum of 72.65 dB, with a SSE/t value reaching 10730 dB cm2 g−1. Moreover, the MArCF nonwoven veil demonstrated excellent flame retardance properties, with a substantial decrease of 63 % in Heat Release (HR) capacity, 60 % in Total Heat Release (THR), and 83.15 % in Heat Release Rate (HRR). The modified veils also exhibited excellent Joule heating and photothermal properties, indicating a promising potential for multifunctional reinforcement in composites.