Sponge Shape Research Articles

Three-dimensional modeling of dilute sediment concentration around the synthetic sponge inspired by the tubular sponge mechanism

Marine tubular sponges use horizontal suction to receive the nutrients from the perforated body and pump the undigested materials from the top mouth. The idea of a synthetic sponge was inspired by the tubular one. It was introduced to manage the sediment-flow hydrodynamics for enhancing sediment transport in coral reefs and access channels. In the current study, synthetic sponge effects on the dilute sediment concentration were investigated numerically. The Mixture method based on Three-Fluids Modeling (TFM) was selected. The effects of pore area distributions (0–0.42) and jet flow discharges (0–7500 L/h) on the sediment concentration were evaluated. The surface Line Integral Convolution (surfaceLIC) was used as an image processing technique to assess the fluid hydrodynamics. The results indicate that the effects of perforation area distribution are more significant than suction/pumping discharges on the sediment concentration (94.87% vs. 5.13% contribution). So increasing the distribution of perforation areas can effectively reduce water turbidity (between 20% and 50%). The combination of the wide re-circulation zone, Counter Rotating Vortex Pair (CRVP), spiral flow, and dipole formation are the reasons for this. Therefore, the combination of vortices facilitates sediment transport due to the unique shape and mechanism of synthetic sponge.

Adaptive specialization of a unique sponge body from the Cambrian Qingjiang biota.

Sponge fossils from the Cambrian black shales have attracted attention from both palaeontologists and geochemists for many years in terms of their high diversity, beautiful preservation and perplexing adaptation to inhospitable living environments. However, the body shape of these sponges, which contributes to deciphering adaptive evolution, has not been scrutinized. New complete specimens of the hexactinellid sponge Sanshapentella tentoriformis sp. nov. from the Qingjiang biota (black shale of the Cambrian Stage 3 Shuijingtuo Formation, ca 518 Ma) allow recognition of a unique dendriform body characterized by a columnar trunk with multiple conical high peaks and distinctive quadripod-shaped dermal spicules that frame each high peak. The body shape of this new sponge along with other early Cambrian hexactinellids, is classified into three morpho-groups that reflect different levels of adaptivity to the environment. The cylindrical and ovoid bodies generally adapted to a large spectrum of environments; however, the dendriform body of S. tentoriformis was restricted to the relatively deep-water, oxygen-deficient environment. From a hindsight view, the unique body shape represents a consequence of adaptation that helps maintain an effective use of oxygen and a low energy cost in hypoxic conditions.

Removal of protein, histological dye and tetracycline from simulated bioindustrial wastewater with a dual pore size PPSU membrane

Wastewater from production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) often contains proteins, azo dyes or antibiotics, which cause severe water eutrophication and growth of drug-resistant bacteria. A series of polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) membranes was prepared to determine the relationships between pore structures and the abilities of different membranes to separate foulants, and the characteristics and performance of the ultrafiltration membranes were investigated. The structure of the skin layer and the cross-sectional texture were converted from dense and finger-like macrovoids to porous sponge shapes because of a delayed liquid–liquid (L-L) demixing time. Formation of novel PPSU membranes via noncovalent bonding interactions was evaluated, and this selectively affected the membrane surface pore structure, layer thickness, surface polarity and electronic repulsive force. All PPSU membranes demonstrated excellent rejection of organic foulants, including bovine serum albumin (BSA) (~100% rejection) and acid red 1 (AR1) (~90% rejection). Additionally, M5 provided an excellent tetracycline (TC) rejection efficiency of 89% in the 1st cycle. Due to the small size of TC, pore size effects were displayed. Moreover, the pure water flux recovery rate (FRR) increased from 85% (M1, water/ethanol: 100/0) to 99.9% (M4, water/ethanol: 30/70) after BSA filtration because the weak nonsolvent decreased the roughness of the membrane surface, and the membrane made with added EtOH yielded excellent FRR values (99.9%) after AR1 filtration. Therefore, PPSU membranes successfully achieved over 90% rejection of organic foulants and excellent FRRs, indicating that they may be suitable for purifying wastewater from API plants that generate organic foulants with a wide range of sizes.

Liquid-metal embedded sponge-typed triboelectric nanogenerator for omnidirectionally detectable self-powered motion sensor

With the increasing number of devices that require electrical energy, various types of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), a promising technology for energy harvesting, have been developed in recent years. However, conventional TENGs show relatively low mechanical flexibility because each layer of the conventional TENGs is composed of rigid materials. Low mechanical flexibility produces electrical energy in one-way operation and limits the utilization of TENGs in a variety of applications. In this work, we develop the liquid-metal embedded sponge-typed TENG (LMST). Liquid-metal and silicon rubber are utilized to fabricate the LMST with a peculiar sponge shape, which is inherently including the randomly distributed pores with dispersed liquid-metal droplets. Hence, the LMST can be bent 180° and stretched 300%, which indicates the great flexibility and stretchability of the LMST. The LMST with size of the 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm generated a short-circuit current ( I SC ) of 188 nA and an open-circuit voltage ( V OC ) of 24 V. Also, the 2.48 W/m 2 of power density is generated from the proposed LMST by simply inserting wires into the LMST without any conventional processes for fabricating electrodes. Interestingly, the electrical power can be used simply by connecting wires to the LMS, and power can be greatly improved by increasing the number of wires connected to the LMST. Additionally, various shapes of the LMST are facilely designed using 3D printing technology for a wide spectrum of applications. To prove the applicability of the LMST with the unique porous structure, three types of self-powered sensor systems are demonstrated, which are detecting the pressure, the direction of a spinning ball, and real-time detecting malfunction of motor faults. The flexible advantages of the liquid-metal embedded sponge structure triboelectric nanogenerator device, allow us to extend its applicability to battery-free sensors that can be used in various locations. • Using liquid metal, sugar and silicone elastomer, conductive sponges can be produced through a simple manufacturing process. • Electrical power can be generated using the principle of a single electrode TENG by simply connecting a wire to a sponge. • Due to the elasticity of porous sponges, electrical power can be collected from various directions. • The direction of rotation of the ball and motor defects can be detected using LMST.

Effects of surface treatments on the bonding properties of polyetherketoneketone to dentin: An in vitro study

Statement of problemPolyetherketoneketone (PEKK) has been recently introduced as a dental material for fixed dental prostheses. However, how surface treatments affect the bonding of PEKK to dentin is unclear. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of airborne-particle abrasion and acid etching on the bonding of PEKK to dentin. Material and methodsEighty-four PEKK specimens were fabricated, polished, and divided into 6 groups (n=14): no treatment (group NT), airborne-particle abrasion with 110-μm alumina particles (group Al), 98% sulfuric acid etching for 5 seconds (group SA5), 98% sulfuric acid etching for 30 seconds (group SA30), 98% sulfuric acid etching for 60 seconds (group SA60), and airborne-particle abrasion plus 98% sulfuric acid for 5 seconds (group AlSA5). Sixty PEKK specimens (n=10) were fabricated for the shear bond test. Another 24 PEKK specimens (n=4) were fabricated for surface element analysis and morphological observations. For each group, 2 specimens after surface treatments were randomly selected to examine scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations and surface element analysis. Another 2 specimens after bonding were randomly selected to examine cross-sectional observations. Airborne-particle abrasion with 110-μm alumina particles was performed to cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) specimens (group Co-Cr, n=10). A light-polymerizing polymethylmethacrylate and composite resin primer (visio.link) was applied to the treated PEKK specimens and bonded with a resin cement (RelyX Ultimate) to dentin. The Co-Cr specimens were bonded with the resin cement to dentin. The shear bond strengths of all groups were tested by using a universal testing machine, and fracture analysis was performed. A statistical analysis was performed by using 1-way ANOVA, followed by the Student–Newman–Keuls-q post hoc test (α=.05). ResultsThe shear bond strengths of groups SA5 and AlSA5 were higher than those of groups NT, Al, SA30, SA60, and Co-Cr (P＜.05). Group SA5 achieved the highest shear bond strength (16.84 ±1.84 MPa). The SEM observations showed that after surface treatments, groups SA5 and AlSA5 had a uniform sponge shape with small pores, while groups SA30 and SA60 had a collapsed shape with large pits and pores. The sulfur element content and H2SO4-etched thicknesses of groups SA30 and SA60 were higher than those of groups SA5 and AlSA5. The cross-sectional SEM observations of groups SA30 and SA60 after bonding revealed that H2SO4-etched pores were deeper and not filled with the bonding material. ConclusionsCompared with airborne-particle abrasion, the 98% sulfuric acid etching significantly improved the shear bond strength of PEKK to dentin. The surface treatment of 98% sulfuric acid etching for 5 seconds led to the high bond strength of PEKK to dentin, which meets the requirements for clinical use.

The Effectiveness of Pharmacological Synchronization of the Estrous Cycle in Hinds (Cervus elaphus L.): A Pilot Field Trial.

Simple SummaryReproductive biotechnics of Cevidae species may increase valuable traits for the agricultural sector, and improve genetic diversity in relatively small farmed populations. The first step of biotechnics in terms of suitability for embryo transfer or insemination is preparation of females for proper phase of the estrous cycle. Based on available synchronization protocols applicated in red deer and domestic ruminant females we estimated the protocol for hinds in view of future routine use. Progestin analogues in the form of an insert (CIDR) or a sponge (Chronogest) and injection of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG; Folligon) were used on the appropriate day for inducing the estrus. The effect of synchronization was checked by measurement of progesterone (P4) and 17-beta estradiol (E2) concentration by RIA, pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG)s concentration by EIA and insemination effectiveness—pregnancy rate. The better method of the estrous cycle synchronization found down to be progestin sponge and eCG based protocol in hinds considering hormone responsiveness and pregnancy rate.The aim was to estimate the effective pharmacological method of the estrous cycle synchronization by checking the effects of synchronization by measurement of progesterone (P4) and 17-beta estradiol (E2) concentration by RIA and artificial insemination. The experiment was performed at the red deer farm in Rudzie (North-East Poland; 3 year’s old). The herd (N = 14) was kept away from bulls and was divided in two groups of seven animals. In the Group I, CIDR insert (0.3 g of P4) was applicated intravaginally for 12 days; a second insert replaced the first one for the next 12 days, and next 200 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) was injected intramuscularly (Folligon). Estrus was expected 48 h after eCG injection. In the Group II, Chronogest sponge (20 mg of flugestone acetate) was applicated intravaginally and after 7 days replaced with second chronogest sponge for 7 days. After removing the sponge, on the same day eCG was injected and estrus was expected after 48 h. Artificial insemination was provided with frozen-thawed semen twice: 12 and 24 h after expected estrus. The peripheral blood from the jugular vein was collected each time when the inserts or sponge were applicated and 40 days after insemination. The concentration of P4 and E2 in plasma was measured by RIA. The effectiveness of insemination was monitored by pregnancy-associated glycoproteins determination and observed by the number of calves born. Two pregnancies were confirmed in Group I and five in Group II based on PAG concentration. One newborn was observed in Group I and five in Group II. Both methods of synchronization are effective in hinds based on the received profile of steroids. Although the sponge shape in case of chronogest is better comparing with CIDR, which was not completely deposited in the vagina of hind, potentially leads to bacteria inflammation, and it disturbs the rightful endocrine regulation. Moreover, pregnancy rate and hormone responsiveness were better in Group II.

Effects of different pretreatments on the pore structure of Chinese yam during microwave freeze drying.

In order to explore the effects of different pretreatments on the pore structure of Chinese yam during Microwave Freeze Drying (MFD), the samples were treated by typical drying pretreatments including osmosis, blanching and ultrasound, and compared with the untreated samples. The results showed that the pretreatment had significant impacts on the porosity of MFD Chinese yam. Ultrasonic pretreatment could obtain the highest open porosity, and the internal pore network structure of the material showed a uniform sponge shape. The shape of pores obtained by blanching pretreatment was the most irregular. The pore network structure obtained by different pretreatments could result in various product texture and rehydration, which implied that pretreatment methods should be carefully selected according to actual requirements. All these pretreatments could improve the open porosity of MFD Chinese yam, which result in a better rehydration capability. Among them, ultrasonic treatment is worth further investigating. Keywords: microwave freeze drying, pretreatment, pore network structure, Chinese yam, porosity DOI: 10.25165/j.ijabe.20201304.5605 Citation: Wang H, Duan X, Zhao L J, Duan L L, Ren G Y. Effects of different pretreatments on the pore structure of Chinese yam during microwave freeze drying. Int J Agric & Biol Eng, 2020; 13(4): 232–237.

Sponge Density and Distribution Constrained by Fluid Forcing in the Deep Sea

Understanding the distribution and density of sponge grounds in the deep sea is key to appreciating the ecological importance, vulnerability, and role in ocean biogeochemistry of these important habitats. A novel combination of clustering analysis and fluid flow finite element modelling was used to study distribution of four sponge grounds from the Labrador Sea, which were chosen for their distinct assemblages of sponges. Significant small-scale clustering patterns of sponges were found within each sponge ground, measured using the Ripley K function. A new approach using finite element modelling of fluid flow was then applied to understand the drivers of the observed sponge distribution, with detailed numerical experiments providing insights into the flow patterns that could not be obtained from field measurements. Simulations using idealised sponge shapes suggested that sponge wakes could interact and influence the mean flow conditions at the spacings observed within the sponge grounds. Simulations of flow over topographic models of the sponge grounds showed that these interacting wakes generated a boundary layer of slowed flow, which may be beneficial to sponge development. The boundary layer may be acting as a protective layer, affecting larval recruitment, increasing particle fall out and increasing the effective radius of pumping. This observation has important implications for the impact of anthropogenic damage on sponge grounds, which changes the sponge distribution and may reduce the boundary layer thickness, affecting potential recovery rates. This study illustrates the power of incorporating mathematical modelling with field observations in the deep sea to increase our understanding of anthropogenic and climate change impacts on sponge ground ecosystem structure and function.

New efficient sunlight photocatalysts based on Gd, Nb, V and Mn doped alpha-Bi2O3 phase

A novel composition of Mn doped α-Bi2O3 exhibited excellent solar light photocatalytic activities for 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), Congo red (CR) and methylene blue (MB) degradation. All the prepared samples were indexed as monoclinic structure of α- Bi2O3 phase with high crystallinity. The noticed decreases in the unit cell volume and the shifts of (-102) plane of α-Bi2O3 indicated to the effective incorporation of dopants. Pure α-Bi2O3 particles revealed sheets and sponge shapes. Highly uniform rods like structure plus porous sheets were seen in V and Mn doped α-Bi2O3 samples. The visible light photo-absorption properties of pure α-Bi2O3 were greatly enhanced through doping by V and Mn ions. The red shifts in the band gap of α-Bi2O3 were attributed to the substitution of Bi3+ by Gd3+, Nb3+, V3+ and Mn2+/3+ ions which formed new electronic states into α-Bi2O3 structure. Pure α-Bi2O3 attained degradation efficiencies of 62, 69 and 38 % for CR, MB and 4-NP in 90, 90 and 270 min, respectively. All doped α-Bi2O3 samples exhibited better photocatalytic activity comparing to pure α-Bi2O3. Novel Mn doped α-Bi2O3 displayed superior photocatalytic activities of 97, 99 and 94 % for CR, MB and 4-NP degradation, respectively. It possesses good stability and reusability for four cycles. The photocatalytic measurements in the presence of EDTA, benzoquinone and isopropanol as scavengers reflected the vital roles of O2ˉ˙ and ˙OH radicals. The superior photocatalytic of Mn doped α-Bi2O3 was ascribed to the enhancements in visible light absorption, surface morphology and inhibition of electron-hole pairs by traps centers.

The axonal regeneration across a honeycomb collagen sponge applied to the transected spinal cord.

We developed a honeycomb-shaped lyophilized Type I atelocollagen (Honeycomb Collagen: HC) with different pore sizes, and the effectiveness of the honeycomb shape on nerve regeneration was examined. We analyzed neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants on HC, both in vitro and, with direct implantation of HC into the defects of adult rat spinal cords, in vivo. The neurites of DRGs on HC extended linearly through the pores. HC with a 400 microm-pore size enhanced neurite extension, and YIGSR laminin peptide coating to the HC extended more neurites than fibronectin coating. The HC scaffolds coated with YIGSR were implanted into 2 mm-defects of spinal cords at the level of T8-9. Four weeks after implantation, the implants had degraded and been replaced with self-tissues, repairing the injured site. Neurofilament-positive fibers were observed in the implantation area and passed the borders between the HC and spinal cord stumps. Functionally, a motor-evoked potential was observed in the quadriceps femoris muscle 10 weeks after implantation. The electrophysiological examination showed reconstruction of axon tracts over the implant. This result indicates that our developed honeycomb shape is advantageous for host spinal cord compared to the random pored sponge shape, and that it promotes axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury.

Fast Triggering of Shape Memory Polymers using an Embedded Carbon Nanotube Sponge Network.

In this work, a 3-D porous carbon nanotube sponge (CNTS) was embedded within a shape memory polymer (SMPs) matrix. We demonstrate complete infiltration and filling of the SMPs into the CNTS by capillary force without any damage to the CNTS structure. With only ~0.2 wt% carbon nanotube loading, the glass transition temperature is increased by ~20 °C, indicating strong interaction between CNTS and the SMPs matrix. Further, we find that the uniform distribution of the carbon nanotubes in the nanocomposite results in high electrical conductivity, and thus highly effective electricity triggering capability. The carbon nanotube sponge shape memory polymer (CNTS/SMPs) nanocomposite could be triggered within ~10 seconds by the application of ~10 volts. Results from finite element simulations showed good agreement with the experimental results, and indicated that for our system the interface thermal energy loss does not have a significant effect on the heating rate of the polymer matrix.

Fabrication of mixed matrix poly(phenylene ether-ether sulfone)-based nanofiltration membrane modified by Fe3O4 nanoparticles for water desalination

Abstract In the current research, poly(phenylene ether-ether sulfone) (PEES)-co-poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) nanofiltration membranes were prepared by a casting solution technique using N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as a solvent. The ethanol was used as fixed additive for better dispersion of iron oxide nanoparticles into the membranes structure. The effect of iron oxide nanoparticle concentration in the casting solution on the membrane performance/properties was studied. The membrane pure water flux, permeated flux, salt rejection, water content, tensile strength and membrane porosity were studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was also used for the membrane morphology characterization. The results revealed that water content increased from 70.25% for bare PEES to about 83.25% for the membrane filled with 0.05 wt.% nanoparticles. SEM images showed that the membrane structure changed and turned from sponge shape to finger like. The results showed that porosity was increased from 55.92% for PEES one to 69.65% for M3. Additionally, the maximum value of flux was obtained for M3. Moreover, rejection was improved by the addition of nanoparticles into the casting solution compared to the unfilled one. Obtained results showed more appropriate performance for the modified membrane filled with 0.05 wt.% iron oxide nanoparticles compared to other prepared membranes.

A Novel Soft Metal‐Polymer Composite for Multidirectional Pressure Energy Harvesting

DOI: 10.1002/aenm.201400024 bubbles remain trapped inside the sponge by means of solving sacrifi cing particles. The triboelectric phenomenon is promoted by periodic contact between miniature pieces of copper microwires encapsulated in a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) sponge. The strong advantages of this work are its simplicity and the cost effectiveness of the process, which makes it suitable for mass manufacturing and fabrication with easy-access facilities. Moreover, because the prototypes are made out of a mixture, the building process can be integrated with other fabrication methods in a broad range of scales. The possibility of trapping conductive wires in rubber opens the way to a new generation of energy harvesting devices, targeting all application fi elds where a fl exible and soft material is used and/or needed. Moreover the fabrication process is not constrained to planar technology but fully 3D shapes can be built. The wired-sponge polymer could be tailored for consumer goods used in everyday life, for which energy harvesting mechanisms have not been considered to date, such as some parts of wheels, mattresses, toys and playgrounds, dance fl oors, etc. It is noteworthy that this approach could be addressed in advanced robotic systems where the body of the robot is built with soft materials via a bioinspired design paradigm. [ 10 ]

Properties and Structure of Microcrystalline Chitosan and Hydroxyapatite Composites

The skeletal system in the human body is very important, provides support and gives shape to the body and provides a network between all soft tissues. The most common problems in hard tissues are bone fractures, defects or diseases which needed to be treated. The developments in artificial bone area seem to solve most of the hard tissue problems, on the other hand artificial bones themselves may cause other problems and in many cases they do not have sufficient mechanical properties and/or good biocompatibility. The importance of chitosan and its derivatives like microcrystalline chitosan has grown significantly over the last two decades due to its renewable and biodegradable source, and also because of the increase in the knowledge of its functionality in the technological and biomedical applications. The excellent biocompability, biofunctionality, and non-antigenic property make the chitosan and its derivatives as a microcrystalline chitosan an ideal material for tissue regeneration. To improve the suitability of chitosan for bone tissue engineering, the composites of MCCh and hydroxyapatite were studied. In the present work the characterization of the MCCh and composites with HAp in form of films and sponges, is based on physico-chemical tests, morphology, structure, particle size of HAp powder and distribution in the polymer matrix. The compositions with film and sponge shape are derived from the junction of two different materials, containing organic and inorganic substances. All sponge preparations, with HAp/MCCh have a well-shaped 3-dimensional structure, which could be used as implants in orthopedic surgery for a scaffolds base for medical applications.

Reduced recombination and enhanced UV-assisted photocatalysis by highly anisotropic titanates from electrospun TiO2–SiO2 nanostructures

The surface areas of electrospun fibers/rice grain-shaped nanostructures of TiO2–SiO2 composites were further enhanced after transforming them into thorn or sponge shaped titanates via selective leaching of SiO2, which was reported by our group previously [RSC Adv., 2012, 2, 992]. In this study, we report on their application in photocatalytic activity (PCA) when juxtaposed with photoluminescence (PL). Two defect related bands are observed in PL and their origin is discussed in relation to calcination, crystallization and nucleation effects. The relative PL intensity for sponge shapes was the lowest and hence had the lowest radiative recombination, which suggests carrier trapping at defect centers. This enables the charge carriers to migrate to the surface and participate in the PCA. The results of PCA suggested that the sponge-shaped titanate exhibits the highest degradation rate among all samples. A plausible mechanism for the differences in PCA is proposed based on the variation in the defect-densities.

Performance of PSf Ultrafiltration Membrane: Effect of Different Nonsolvent on Coagulation Medium

One of the big challenges in developing a good asymmetric membrane is macrovoid formation that leads to reduction of rejection value. The most common method to reduce or suppress macrovoid formation is by addition of controlled solvent to the coagulation bath. Therefore, the effect of difference coagulants based on dissolved KCl (monovalent) and dissolved Na2SO4(divalent) with different concentration onto asymmetric Polysulfone (PSf) ultrafiltration membrane was investigated in this work. The PSf ultrafiltration membranes were prepared by using phase inversion method using these two immerse aqueous solutions. The performances of membranes were evaluated via pure water flux (distilled water) and solute rejection (humic acid). Results on the cross section revealed that the structure of membrane show a straight pattern of bigger finger-like pore structure from top to bottom layer tend to reduce with at the same time the diameter of finger-like pore structure also increased, as salt medium of coagulant increases. These obviously shown by permeation values for both salt mediums were higher compared to without salt coagulant. This reduction of finger-like structure at bottom layer occurred along together with the formation of sponge shape structure. The growth of thick sponge shape is strongly influence by kinetic phase inversion of salt coagulant that also creates resistance to permeation mechanism. However the intense salt coagulant medium can cause the bigger sponge structure that will slightly reduce rejection and increase the permeation. This was proved by the rejection of KCl medium started to increase at 1-3% but slightly reduced at 4%. Based on the result analysis demonstrated that the ideal membrane with highest rejection and good permeation values was membrane immersed into 1% Na2SO4 coagulation medium.

Comparative Analysis of the Materials Used in the Domestic-Made and the Foreign-Made Lipsticks

In this study, the type and fine structure of materials used in domestic-made and foreign-made lipsticks were analyzed through the method of using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. In the lipstick precipitates, pearlescent pigment, silica, titanium dioxide, iron oxide and organic pigment were commonly observed. The pearlescent pigment among components used in lipstick happens to have smoother surface, less sharp and rough edge in foreign-made lipstick than the domestic-made lipstick. The silica was commonly added to both lipsticks but found more in foreign-made lipstick precipitates than the domestic-made one. The organic pigments were observed with granular shape in the size of about 100 nm, and in foreign-made lipstick precipitates, the pigments formed a lump of about 3 μm size as small particles were bunched up. When both precipitates were treated in the same condition, the incompletely dissolved wax materials were observed in domestic-made lipstick. These structures were about 30 μm in diameter and sponge shape empty spaces were formed on the surface. In the high magnification scanning electron micrograph, these empty spaces were shown with polygon shape with the various sizes of 1~5 μm, as well with the traditional lipstick wax fine structure.

Properties of Microcrystalline Chitosan-Calcium Phosphate Complex Composite

Nature itself uses materials like, cellulose to provide the structure of plants, chitin as the exoskeleton of several insects and molluscs, collagen for mechanical support in connective tissues and so on. At present, the socioeconomic situation of the modern world has raised the interest in renewable materials being used in regenerative medicine. The composition of MCCh/?-TCP complex in sponge shape is derived from the junction of two or more different materials, containing organic and inorganic materials, including bioactivity and biodegradability as a characteristic. The chemical characteristics of MCCh/?-TCP complex composites showed that both of the components organic and inorganic exist in the material. All sponge preparations, with MCCh/?-TCP have a well-shaped 3-dimentional structure, a highly porous and interconnected and homogenous pore structure to ensure a biological environment conducive to cell attachment and proliferation as well as tissue growth, providing the passage of nutrient flow. These materials can be used in future for medical applications as a base for scaffolds production and as implants in regenerative medicine.

Simple approaches towards the design of an attached-growth sponge bioreactor (AGSB) for wastewater treatment and reuse

Wastewater treatment and reuse is being emphasized due to the shortage of water sources and the continuous deterioration of the aquatic environment. In this study, a novel sponge bioreactor was studied as a low cost, high efficiency alternative for an attached growth biological system. This was designed by combining of number of sponge trays. This emerging technology has many beneficial properties in wastewater treatment and reuse. The approaches towards the conditions for system design were: (i) selection of sponge types; (ii) selection of sponge shapes; and (iii) selection of designated slope of sponge tray. They were determined through a series of experiments using a laboratory-scale unit with synthetic wastewater. It was then tested with a pilot-scale unit at the predetermined optimum conditions. The results indicate that the highest biomass growth was found at the sponge type with a cell count of 70-90 cells/in(2) (6.45 cm(2)) The relationship between biomass growth and biological oxygen consumption was well established. The prism-shaped sponge (triangular polyurethane sponge of 70-90 cells/in(2) with designated slope of sponge tray at 10 degrees) led to the best performance in terms of both organic and nutrient removal efficiency.

Production of lactic acid with loofa sponge immobilized Rhizopus oryzae RBU2-10

Lactic acid production by Rhizopus oryzae RBU2-10 immobilized in loofa sponge was evaluated. Shape and texture of loofa sponge, which was obtained from the mature dried fruit of Luffa cylindrica, remained intact after its treatment with buffers of varying pH and following its repeated autoclaving for up to four cycles (121 °C, 20 min per cycle). The medium having four pieces of loofa sponge (1.008 cm 3) per 100 ml medium and inoculated with 3 × 10 6 spores ml −1 resulted maximum production (80.75 g l −1) of lactic acid in 48 h of fermentation. Repeated batch fermentation for lactic acid production could be carried out for 10 cycles. Remarkably higher levels of productivity (1.66–1.84 g l −1 h −1) was obtained during first five cycles of fermentation with a maximum productivity (1.84 g l −1 h −1) obtained during third cycle of fermentation.