Uniform Shape Research Articles

Colored Cellulose Nanoparticles with High Stability and Easily Modified Surface for Accurate and Sensitive Multiplex Lateral Flow Assay.

Decentralized testing using multiplex lateral flow assays (mLFAs) to simultaneously detect multiple analytes can significantly enhance detection efficiency, reduce cost and time, and improve analytic accuracy. However, the challenges, including the monochromatic color of probe particles, interference between different test lines, and reduced specificity and sensitivity, severely hinder mLFAs from wide use. In this study, we prepared polydopamine (PDA)-coated dyed cellulose nanoparticles (dCNPs@P) with tunable colors as the probe for mLFAs. Cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) were synthesized with uniform spheric shapes and tunable sizes. Dye molecules were loaded on CNPs via a mature industrial dyeing method. The PDA shell provided a reactive surface for facile receptor conjugation and protected the dye from leaking. dCNPs@P displayed a higher signal intensity than gold nanoparticles. They also had higher stability to tolerate salt and varied pH. The dCNP@P-based mLFAs were successfully applied to detect multiple mycotoxins in cereals and determine the levels of inflammatory biomarkers to differentiate between viral and bacterial infections. The tests represented high specificity and accuracy and were more sensitive than the tests using gold nanoparticles. The quantified detection was accessible by measuring the intensities of the colorimetric or photothermal signals. Overall, this study provides a practical system solution for mLFAs based on colored dCNPs@P.

Localized surface plasmon resonance sensing based on monometallic gold nanoparticles: from material preparation to detection of bioanalytes.

The tunable geometrical properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) endow them with the capacity to exhibit distinct behaviors with respect to both macroscopic (color) and microscopic (resonance wavelength) aspects, which has been extensively utilized in localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensing platforms. Additionally, functionalizing AuNP surfaces enhances the platforms' capabilities, allowing for the detection of a wide range of molecules related to various aspects of human health. In this review, we comprehensively elucidate the fundamental principles of LSPR biosensing and provide an in-depth survey of the preparation processes for metal nanoparticles, encompassing deposition technology for large-scale particle production as well as ion reduction methods that afford superior control over the particles' physical and chemical attributes. The sensing strategies based on adjustment of the dielectric environment and particle dispersion-aggregation levels are thoroughly reviewed and discussed. The discussion focused on a specific class of nanoparticles, characterized by their uniform shape and size, with each section bifurcated into two parts: a summary of the salient features and recent discoveries pertaining to the sensing strategy, as well as illustrations of representative, cutting-edge applications employing the strategy. We specifically aim to scrutinize analytes commonly encountered in the biomedical realm, encompassing biomarkers that serve as indicators of a wide range of diseases and microbial pathogens, while also prognosticating the future development trends of LSPR optical biosensor platforms within the biomedical field.

Strategy for Targeting Medical Diagnosis of Cerebral Ischemia Regions by Linking Gsk-3β Antibody and RVG29 to Magnetosomes

Background: In our previous studies, we have identified Gsk-3β as a crucial target molecule in response to Danhong injection for cerebral ischemia intervention. Furthermore, it can serve as a molecular imaging probe for medical diagnosis. Bacterial magnetic particles (BMPs), synthesized by magnetotactic bacteria, are regarded as excellent natural nanocarriers. Methods: In this study, we utilized biological modification and chemical crosslinking techniques to produce a multifunctional BMP known as "RVG29-BMP-FA-Gsk-3β-Ab", which exhibits both magnetic properties and brain-targeting capabilities. Then, a combination of analytical techniques was used to characterize the properties of the multifunctional BMPs. Finally, we evaluated the cell targeting ability of the RVG29-BMP-FA-Gsk-3β-Ab. Results: The multifunctional BMPs were observed to possess uniform size and shape using TEM analysis, with a particle size of 70.1±7.33 nm. Zeta potential analysis revealed that the nanoparticles exhibited a regular and non-aggregative distribution of particle sizes. Relative fluorescence intensity results demonstrated that the complex of 1mg of RVG29-BMP-FA-Gsk- 3β-Ab could bind to FITC-RVG29 polypeptide at a concentration of 2189.5 nM. Cell viability analysis indicated its high biocompatibility and minimal cytotoxicity. The RVG29-BMP-FAGsk- 3β-Ab was observed to possess active targeting towards neuronal cells and fluorescence imaging capabilities in vitro, as evidenced by fluorescence imaging assays. The complex of RVG29-BMP-FA-Gsk-3β-Ab exhibited favourable properties for early diagnosis and efficacy evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine in treating cerebral ischemia. Conclusion: This study establishes a fundamental basis for the prospective implementation of multimodal imaging in traditional Chinese medicine for cerebral ischemia.

Acidic and alkaline deep eutectic solvents pretreatment of Macadamia nutshells for production of cellulose nanofibrils and lignin nanoparticles.

This study explored a facile method for converting macadamia nutshells into bio-based nanomaterials, including cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and lignin nanoparticles (LNPs), through deep eutectic solvent (DES) pretreatment coupled with a nanofabrication strategy. Comparisons of the physicochemical, morphological, and structural properties of the CNF and LNPs produced through acidic choline chloride/oxalic acid dihydrate (ACDES) and alkaline K2CO3/glycerol DES (ALDES) pretreatments were conducted using SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD, TGA, GPC and 2D NMR. The CNFs obtained from ACDES pretreatment (ACCNFs) exhibited uniform and long filament-like structures with shorter whisker-like nanocrystals. Conversely, the CNFs produced with the ALDES pretreatment (ALCNFs) displayed irregular aggregates and nanofibril bundles. Additionally, the ACCNFs demonstrated higher crystallinity and contained small amounts of the oxalate half-ester compare to ALCNFs. During ACDES pretreatment, a large proportion of β-O-4, β-5, and β-β linkages in lignin disrupted and re-condensed to form lignin substructures, resulting in the assembly of cluster-like lignin nanoparticles pretreated with ACDES (ACLNP) aggregates. In contrast, lignin nanoparticles pretreated with ALDES (ALLNP) exhibited uniform nanospherical shapes because of the preservation of β linkages in lignin during the ALDES pretreatment. This work not only broadens the fabrication strategies for CNF and LNPs but also offered a promising approach for the valorization of lignocellulosic agricultural wastes.

Removal of MTBE and BTEX Pollutants from Contaminated Water Using Colloidal Activated Carbon (CAC).

Methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) and BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes) are common groundwater contaminants that pose significant health risks. This study investigated the efficiency of a colloidal activated carbon (CAC) material in removing MTBE and BTEX from contaminated water using batch and continuous core flooding systems. In the batch system, a mixture of sand and carbonate was coated with 1-3 g of CAC for the removal of contaminants. The core flooding system was packed with similar materials and mixed with 10 g of CAC. X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the carbonate consists of more than 97% calcite, with traces of clay and quartz minerals. On the other hand, the sandstone sample showed around 89% quartz, 8% clay minerals, and traces of feldspar. The CAC has a surface area of 1050 m2/g, mean particle size of 31.8 μm, density of 1.0976 (g/cm3), viscosity of 24.4 mPa·s, and a negative surface charge. Spiked water samples with 2000 ppb MTBE and BTEX concentrations ranging between 1000 and 200 ppb were injected through the system at rates of 0.5 and 1.0 mL/min. The results showed that the type of packing materials and flow rate have a significant impact on contaminant removal. For example, the removal efficiency was higher in sandstone due to uniform particle shapes facilitating better water distribution and CAC accessibility within the pore medium. A lower injection rate (0.5 mL/min) resulted in higher removal efficiencies due to increased contact time between contaminants and CAC. At 1 mL/min, the maximum removal of 94% and 65% for MTBE and benzene was achieved in carbonate, while 99% and 96% were achieved in sandstone, respectively. At 0.5 mL/min, complete MTBE removal and over 95% benzene removal were achieved in both materials. Overall, the CAC demonstrated excellent MTBE and BTEX removal capabilities, exceeding 95%, offering a promising approach for in situ groundwater remediation.

Heterobimetallic Zn2+/Co2+ Monocarboxylates as Precursors for ZnO Microparticles Doped with Cobalt and its Photocatalytic Activity in Methyl Orange Oxidation

In this work, zinc oxide microparticles doped with cobalt were prepared from two novel layered heterobimetallic monocarboxylates as precursors to obtain uniform shape and size oxide particles, aiming for a photocatalytic removal of methyl orange. Both monocarboxylates produced ZnO doped with Co2O3 after calcination at 700 or 900 °C, in 7 or 12 hours. The particles formed by the laurate precursor presented rectangular prisms shaped, while those formed from stearate were sphere-like particles. All particles ranged from 0.1 to 0.9 μm size, with a direct bandgap of 2.2 to 2.6 eV and an indirect bandgap of 0.25 to 1.70 eV. The ZnO/Co prepared presented photocatalytic activity on methyl orange photodegradation. The solid prepared by the laurate precursor showed a photodegradation rate of 0.00185 min-1, while the one obtained from the stearate precursor presented a photodegradation rate of 0.00860 min-1, eight times greater. These results show that the material may be very useful in removing dyes from water samples. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).

Precipitation Polymerization-Based Molecularly Imprinted Polymers: A Novel Approach for Transdermal Curcumin Delivery.

This research describes the synthesis and characterization of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) as a candidate for the transdermal delivery of curcumin. The MIP was synthesized through precipitation polymerization using methacrylic acid as the functional monomer and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as the cross-linking agent. MIP characterization studies were conducted using SEM-EDX and FTIR spectroscopy to determine the morphology and interaction between curcumin and polymers. The MIP obtained through precipitation polymerization was in the form of a fine powder with a surface morphology resembling a collection of small granules with a uniform shape. The adsorption capacity of the MIP follows the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model, with a maximum capacity of 4.239 mg/g, which is greater than that of the NIP (3.219 mg/g), resulting in an imprinting efficiency of 1.317. The percentage of curcumin released from the MIP after 8 h was 41.26%, which is lower than that from the NIP, at 51.50%. The drug release kinetics study follows the Higuchi model, indicating drug diffusion from the polymer matrix. Imprinting on the MIP can modify drug diffusion from the polymer matrix, resulting in a reduced release rate in the MIP. Therefore, the MIP can be considered a candidate for the controlled transdermal delivery of curcumin.

Automated Microfluidic Systems Facilitating the Scalable and Reliable Production of Lipid Nanoparticles for Gene Delivery

AbstractLipid nanoparticles have become a promising agent for biocompatible, effective, stable, and clinically approved delivery system that protect the nucleic acid from degradation while allowing cellular uptake and release of nucleic acid. Herein, we report an advanced microfluidic device and system for synthesis of uniform shape and size of mRNA encapsulated LNPs. The device consists of five repeated donut ring structures with two inlets and one outlet microfluidic channels which are assigned for organic phase solution, aqueous phase solution, and LNP recovery, respectively. It also has a minimum microfluidic channel width of 100 μm and can produce LNPs with approximately diameter from 70 to 190 nm. These LNPs can be produced less than 2 min after loading of reagents in the instrument. To verify the practical applicability of the as-developed instrument, mRNA expressing enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) is encapsulated in LNPs. The gene expression of mRNA encapsulated LNPs confirmed the mechanical and chemical stability of the LNPs and its capability of gene delivery. Based on the results, the microfluidic device and system can provide a simple, fast, reliable, easy-to-use, cost-effective, and reproducible way to be applicable in LNP-based gene therapies and vaccines for treating various diseases.

Phase-Dependent Thermoluminescence Properties of Zinc Sulphide.

In the current study, the effects of heat treatment on the thermoluminescence (TL) and structural properties of zinc blend samples were studied. The samples were annealed after being heated for different time periods from 2 up to 10h. The wurtzite hexagonal phase was observed upon heat treatment. It was observed that the presence of hexagonal phase with small percentage enhanced the thermoluminescence effect where the highest intensity was found to be for the sample with 8.2% wurtzite and 91.8% cubic zinc sulphide. The morphology of ZnS particles was studied by the HR-TEM analysis and it displayed an aggregated ZnS nanoparticles with almost uniform shape and size. The TL-glow curves for each sample were analysed using the Computerized Glow Curve Deconvolution (CGCD) and initial rise (IR) methods. Six trapping peaks exist between 0.98 and 1.45eV through the deconvolution process. The number of peaks increased to 8 peaks for the fourth treatment, located between 0.95 and 1.56eV. The activation energies and the frequency factors for getting traps were evaluated too.

Thermal-Hydraulic Characteristics of an Earth Air Heat Exchanger: An experimental analysis

The pipe layout design has a great effect on the thermal-hydraulic characteristics of earth air heat exchanger (EAHE) systems. So, in the current study proposed four new buried pipe design configurations; low to high to low, high to low to high, spiral, and circular, in addition to the straight or uniform for comparison. These five configurations are tested and analyzed experimentally depending on the thermo-hydraulic performance for summer cooling requirements with variation of Re in the range of 18041 – 40843. The results show that changing the uniform design of the EAHE with fixed pipe length enhances both the heat transfer process and pressure loss values. At the same operating conditions, the circular design has the best performance compared to the other ones. For all pipe shapes, the cooling effect increases with the increase of air Re. The thermal- hydraulic performance of the circular design pipe is higher than that of the other pipe designs. The highest coefficient of performance (COP) average values that can be obtained at Re = 18041 is 3.05 for circular shape and enhances by 48.08 % compared to uniform shape. The effectiveness of EAHE with circular shape is improved by about 3.52 % compared to uniform shape at Re = 18041. Spiral design is optimum design based on the Nu value which reaches about 48 with enhancement 12.56% and 0.34 % compared to uniform and circular shapes respectively, at Re = 40843. The hydrothermal performance factor is highest in the case of circular shape with value about 21.9 at Re = 21257. By increasing Re, the drawbacks of the increasing in the total entropy generation are reflected negatively on the exergy efficiency. The specific cost of the circular shape at Re = 40843 is the optimum value by about 0.7 $/W. Spiral and circular shapes have a decrease of CO2 emissions less than uniform shape by percentage varied from 2.93 % to 13.84% for decrease in the Re from 21257 to 40843. It is concluded that using EAHE with four new shapes is highly efficient in increasing cooling capacity and energy consumption in buildings.

Variable Contact Area‐Based Compressive Properties of Orally Self‐Disintegrating Puffs

ABSTRACTMilk protein‐rich, orally self‐disintegrating puffs were designed utilizing supercritical fluid extrusion (SCFX) to address the needs of both infants and the elderly who require high protein foods and suffer from swallowing difficulties. The physio‐mechanical properties of the puffs need to be accurately evaluated as the physiological processes occurring in the mouth are quite complex. Generally, mastication is simulated through a compressive test that utilizes a constant contact area which does not well simulate the oral environment. Most snacks do not have a uniform shape and undergo a change in contact area during compressing leading to inaccurate predictions of the sample's response in the mouth. The objective of this study was to quantify the change in the contact area and its effect on compressive properties. Variable contact area was experimentally measured to provide an accurate estimation of the sample stress during testing. The sample's mean variable yield contact area was 43.1 mm2 while the constant yield contact area was significantly higher at 100.5 mm2 (p < 0.05). The relationship between the variable contact area and deformation was determined by fitting the data to a polynomial model (R2 = 0.99). From this relationship, Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio were evaluated. The Young's modulus values determined with variable contact area correlate well with each puff's corresponding disintegration time. The puffs have soaked Poisson's ratio values close to 1.00 indicating that these sample are deforming more like a liquid than a solid. Overall, the results showed that the variable contact area should be utilized when analyzing compressive properties to form accurate predictions of oral disintegration for extruded puffs to meet the needs of those who have difficulty swallowing.

Oral Targeted Delivery of Codonopsis Radix Polysaccharide via Succinyl -DHA Functionalized Nanoparticles Efficiently Alleviates Ulcerative Colitis.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic intestinal disease characterized by spleen-lung qi deficiency and dampness-pathogenic obstruction. Although there are various treatment options available, patients frequently encounter significant drug-related side effects. Previous studies have shown the potential of Codonopsis Radix polysaccharides A (CPA) in treating UC, but their limited bioavailability has restricted their clinical use. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a novel formulation that can address the aforementioned limitations and assess its potential advantages. We synthesized a negatively charged amphipathic prodrug called CPA-SA-DHA (CSD), which consists of CPA as the hydrophilic component, and succinic anhydride and docosahexaenoic acid as the hydrophobic segments. The CSD nanoparticles obtained had a particle size of 180.0 ± 3.2 nm, a negative zeta potential of -29.8 ± 5.3 mV, and a uniform shape with a PDI index of 0.230 ± 0.003. The interaction between positive and negative charges significantly increased the retention time of CSD nanoparticles in the colonic microenvironment. Furthermore, CSD nanoparticles demonstrated enhanced bioavailability in UC mice compared to CPA. Additionally, we observed that CSD nanoparticles exhibited therapeutic effects on DSS-induced UC mice by regulating the diversity and abundance of gut microbiota. This effect may be mediated by the inhibition of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways TLR4/NF-κB. These findings confirm the potential of CSD nanoparticles as a promising treatment option for UC.

Permeability estimation from pore to Darcy in cemented granular media using resolved CFD-DEM model

Permeability prediction plays a critical role in many engineering applications that involve fluid flow through porous media. Various factors including pore shape, particle size, polydispersity and compaction levels can significantly impact the flow behavior of a porous medium. Moreover, the influence of cementation should also be considered. In this work, we investigate the effect of particle cementation on the permeability using the three-dimensional resolved CFD-DEM approach. The modified cohesive contact model is utilized to simulate the cementation behavior of particles. The numerical model is initially validated by a laboratory experiment demonstrating similar results for the permeability of the sample with polydisperse particles. Results show that the permeability in both polydisperse and monodisperse particle systems decreases when the cementation of particles increases. Especially, this relationship is observed at higher porosity values. In contrast, in more compacted samples with lower porosity, the cementation effect becomes less. The numerical study also shows that the tortuosity values in both particle systems increase almost linearly with decreasing porosity. However, the strong influence of cementation on tortuosity is noticeable only in a monodisperse particle system dominated by uniform pore shapes with regular fluid paths. A study of fluid flow at different gradation levels reveals that an increase in cementation leads to a significant decrease in the permeability in a sample with larger particles. From the point of view of applying the numerical model to the real reservoir sand sample, the numerical results of permeability align well with the data reported by many studies.

Advanced PPS/MOFs composite nanofiltration membranes derived from contra-diffusion synthesis for precise molecular separation

To meet the separation requirements of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) membranes in extremely harsh environments and to enhance the separation performance of PPS membrane material, this study utilizes Zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) material with a porous structure to modify the structure of the PPS membranes. Using the Contra-diffusion synthesis method, we successfully created PPS composite membranes that were modified by ZIF-8. At the end of the three-hour reaction time, a continuous and dense layer of ZIF-8 crystals with uniform crystal size and regular crystal shape was produced on the matrix membrane's surface. The permeance to rhodamine B aqueous solution is 42.54 L m−2 h−1 bar−1, and the retention rate is 99.5 %, which has high permeability and retention performance. In the anti-pollution performance test, the composite membrane's flux recovery rate is 72.9 %, which has good anti-pollution performance. After immersion in strong acids, strong alkalis, and a variety of organic solvents, the appearance shows no evident flaws, and the separation performance in strong alkalis and five different types of organic solvents stays steady, demonstrating excellent alkali and solvent resistance. This proves that composite membranes have great potential for application in dye wastewater treatment.

Development and Optimization of Geopolymer-Based Artificial Angular Coarse Aggregate Using Cut-Blade Mechanism

This research introduces a novel approach to developing geopolymer-based artificial coarse aggregate using a cut-blade mechanism, providing an innovative approach to traditional aggregate. A modified concrete drum mixer equipped with additional cutting blades was employed to produce angular aggregates with consistent particle sizes ranging from 10mm to 20mm with rough surface texture. Compared to conventional techniques, this method ensures a more uniform aggregate shape, enhancing its mechanical interlocking properties in construction applications. The experimental results demonstrated abrasion values between (13.2% to 31.5%), impact value test (9.8% to 21.6%), water absorption rates of (2.62% to 4.2%), and specific gravity values ranging from (1.18 to 2.2). To further optimize the alkali activator dosage, a mathematical model was developed using the ANOVA test and Response surface methodology (RSM), achieving high regression predictive accuracy with R2 values > 0.93. The model demonstrated optimal results between experimental results and predicted results for specific gravity, impact value, abrasion value, and water absorption. Microstructural analysis via Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals optimal pore distribution inside aggregates, while X-ray Fluorescence identifies significant intensities of Quartz, Ettringite, and calcium silicate hydrate gel. Overall, this research not only demonstrates the technical feasibility of producing high-performance artificial aggregate from waste materials but also underscores its potential to mitigate environmental impacts and promote sustainable construction practices.

Alumina Crucibles from Free Dispersant Suspensions: A Useful Labware to form Advanced Powders for Radiation Dosimetry

Background: Powder technology provides conditions to control particle-particle interactions that drive the formation of final-component/material, which also includes the crystalline structure, microstructure and features. Alumina (Al2O3) is the most studied ceramic based material due to its useful properties, disposal, competitive price, and wide technological applicability. This work aims to produce alumina crucibles with controlled size and shape from free dispensant suspensions. These crucibles will be used as containers for the synthesis of new materials for radiation dosimetry. Methods: The Al2O3 powders were characterized by XRD, SEM, PCS, and EPR. The stability of alumina particles in aqueous solvent was evaluated by zeta potential determination as a function of pH. Alumina suspensions with 30 vol% were shaped by slip casting in plaster molds, followed by sintering at 1600oC for 2 h in an air atmosphere. Alumina based crucibles were characterized by SEM and XRD. Results: ɑ-Al2O3 powders exhibited a mean particle diameter size (d50) of 983nm. Besides, the stability of particles in aqueous solvent was achieved at a range of pH from 2.0-6.0, and from 8.5-11.0. EPR spectra revealed two resonance peaks P1 and P2, with g-values of 2.0004 and 2.0022, respectively. The as-sintered ɑ-alumina based crucibles presented uniform shape and controlled size with no apparent defects. In addition, the final microstructure driven by solid-state sintering revealed a dense surface and uniform distribution of grains. Conclusion: The ɑ-Al2O3 crucibles obtained by slip casting of free dispensant alumina suspensions, followed by sintering, exhibited mechanical strength, and controlled shape and size. These crucibles will be useful labwares for the synthesis of new materials for radiation dosimetry.

The Formulation and Evaluation of Customized Prednisolone Gel Tablets Prepared by an Automated Extrusion-Based Material Deposition Method.

Background/Objectives: An automated extrusion-based material deposition is a contemporary and rapid method for pharmaceutical dose-dispensing and preparing (printing) individualized solid dosage forms. The aim of this study was to investigate and gain knowledge of the feasibility of automated extrusion-based material deposition technology in preparing customized prednisolone (PRD)-loaded gel tablets for veterinary applications (primarily for dogs and cats). Methods: The PRD loads of the extrusion-based deposited gel tablets were 0.5% and 1.0%, and the target weights of tablets were 0.250 g, 0.500 g, and 1.000 g. The effects of the material deposition processes on the physical solid state, in vitro dissolution, and the physicochemical stability of PRD gel tablets were investigated. Results: The small-sized gel tablets presented a uniform round shape with an exceptionally smooth outer surface texture. The actual average weight of the tablets (n = 10) was very close to the target weight, showing the precision of the process. We found that PRD was in a pseudopolymorphic sesquihydrate form (instead of an initial PRD crystalline form II) in the gel tablets. In all the immediate-release gel tablets studied, more than 70% of the drug load was released within 30 min. The soft texture and dimensions of gel tablets affected the dissolution behaviour in vitro, suggesting the need for further development and standardization of a dissolution test method for such gel tablets. A short-term storage stability study revealed that the content of PRD did not decrease within 3 months. Conclusions: Automated extrusion-based material deposition is a feasible method for the rapid preparation of gel tablets intended for veterinary applications. In addition, the present technology and gel tablets could be used in pediatric and personalized medicine where precise dosing is crucial.

Enhanced nutraceutical potential of cannabidiol derived from industrial hemp using plant based complex coacervates

Cannabidiol (CBD) from industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a highly promising bioactive compounds with multifarious health benefits. However, its poor chemical stability during storage and digestion and low bioavailability impedes its potential food and pharmaceutical applications. Hence, this research investigated the potential of hemp protein isolate–gum Arabic (HPI–GA) complex coacervates in improving the storage stability, lipid digestibility, and bioaccessibility of CBD. State diagram and charge analysis confirmed the complex coacervate formation between HPI and GA at a 5:1 mixing ratio and pH 3. These HPI–GA complex coacervates were utilized for encapsulating CBD at varying wall-to-core ratios (6:1, 8:1, and 10:1), and their performance was compared to controls. The HPI–GA coacervates exhibited significantly higher encapsulation efficiency compared to the controls, reaching up to 91.85 % with an increasing wall-to-core ratio. As revealed by SEM and CLSM, coacervate-derived spray-dried microcapsules displayed larger particle sizes, minimal surface CBD content, and a uniform spherical shape than controls. These properties allowed the coacervates to effectively maintain the chemical stability of CBD for 75 days under light and temperature exposure (25 or 40°C). The INFOGEST gastrointestinal stimulation digestion results revealed that HPI–GA coacervates could retain the chemical stability of CBD, release free fatty acids in a controlled manner, and consequently increase the bioaccessibility of CBD up to 61.04 %. These findings indicate that the chemical stability and bioavailability of CBD could be improved using HPI–GA complex coacervation. The gleaned results from this research would facilitate the development of CBD-based functional foods and pharmaceuticals.

Assessment of the Biocontrol Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Trichoderma asperellum Against Infected Hordeum vulgare L. Germination.

This study investigated the biosynthesis, statistical optimization, characterization, and biocontrol activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced by newly isolated Trichoderma sp. The Trichoderma asperellum strain TA-3N was identified based on the ITS gene sequence, together with its phenotypic characteristics (GenBank accession number: OM321439). The color change from light yellow to brown after the incubation period indicates AgNPs biosynthesis. The UV spectrum revealed a single peak with the maximum absorption at 453 nm, indicating that T. asperellum produces AgNPs effectively. A Rotatable Central Composite Design (RCCD) was used to optimize the biosynthesis of AgNPs using the aqueous mycelial-free filtrate of T. asperellum. The optimal conditions for maximum AgNPs biosynthesis (156.02 µg/mL) were predicted theoretically using the desirability function tool and verified experimentally. The highest biosynthetic produced AgNPs by T. asperellum reached 160.3 µg/mL using AgNO3 concentration of 2 mM/mL, initial pH level of 6, incubation time of 60 h, and biomass weight of 6 g/100 mL water. SEM and TEM imaging revealed uniform spherical shape particles that varied in size between 8.17 and 17.74 nm. The synthesized AgNPs have a Zeta potential value of -9.51 mV. FTIR analysis provided insights into the surface composition of AgNPs, identifying various functional groups such as N-H, -OH, C-H, C=O, and the amide I bond in proteins. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assays demonstrated that AgNPs in combination with T. asperellum can mitigate the toxic effects of Fusarium oxysporum on barley. This intervention markedly enhanced cell division rates and decreased chromosomal irregularities. The results indicate that AgNPs synthesized by T. asperellum show the potential as an eco-friendly and efficient method for controlling plant diseases. Further studies are necessary to investigate their possible use in the agricultural sector.

Insights into pore structure-activity relationships of iron catalysts supported on fluorine–cerium nanosheets for heterogeneous Fenton oxidation

Two-dimensional (2D) structural materials as catalyst supports is crucial for improving the heterogeneous catalytic activity, while the relationships between their porous structure and catalytic performance are still not very clear. Herein, four kinds of porous 2D Fluorine-Cerium (F-Ce) nanosheets were fabricated and used as catalyst support, aiming to investigate the effect of porous structure on the catalytic properties by heterogeneous Fenton oxidation and unveil the structure-activity relationships. Compared with 2D non-porous GO, Ti3C2, and porous g-C3N4, F-Ce nanosheets exhibited superior catalytic activity. Specifically, FeOOH/F-Ce-3 catalysts achieved 95.5 % phenol removal within 40 minutes, with the deposition sites and electronic structures of the loaded Fe-active species being modulated by tuning the pore structures. In addition, we demonstrated that large pore size and high pore volume are more conducive to high catalytic performance, as well as the uniform pore shape and well-ordered pore distribution are more favorable for mass transfer during catalysis. This work emphasizes the great advantage of using porous 2D F-Ce nanosheets as support in the construction of heterogeneous Fenton catalysts while elaborating the relationship between pore structure and catalytic activity.