Zeta Potential Distribution Research Articles

Integrating ANSYS Fluent Simulation and Aspen Plus for efficient heavy metal ion removal with de-oiled cake

In this study bio-flocculant extracted from the de-oiled cake, a common waste generated while producing oil was used to treat an electroplating industrial effluent. A comprehensive analysis of flocculation efficiency in a simulated reactor using ANSYS Workbench - Fluent, with a focus on optimizing impeller position was carried out. The findings reveal that the optimal impeller position is 2 cm from the tank base, where maximum turbulent kinetic energy (0.02577 m2/s2) and dissipation rate (22.19 m2/s3) were achieved at 200 RPM, enhancing flocculation efficacy. Furthermore, the study identifies 0.5 g L−1 as the optimal flocculant dosage, resulting in 72.70 % and 89.38 % removal of Ni(II) and Cr(VI), respectively. The flocculation process was determined to follow second-order kinetics, with significant improvements in collision efficiency and particle aggregation at the optimized dosage. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed chemical interactions leading to flocculation, while zeta potential and particle size distribution studies corroborated the stability and effectiveness of the process. A techno-economic analysis was conducted, estimating the total capital investment required for pilot and industrial-scale implementations, highlighting the feasibility and scalability of the proposed treatment method. A holistic framework for enhancing industrial effluent treatment processes by integrated computational fluid dynamics, kinetic studies, and economic evaluation, is the novelty of this research.

Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan/Starch Nanocomposites Loaded with Ampicillin to Enhance Antibacterial Activity against Escherichia coli.

Chitosan/starch nanocomposites loaded with ampicillin were prepared using the spray-drying method by mixing various ratios of chitosan and starch. The morphology of chitosan/starch nanoparticles was studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the zeta potential value and size distribution were determined by a Nanoparticle Analyzer. The results show that the chitosan/starch nanocomposites have a spherical shape, smooth surface, and stable structure. Nanoparticle size distribution ranged from 100 to 600 nm, and the average particle size ranged from 300 to 400 nm, depending on the ratio between chitosan and starch. The higher the ratio of starch in the copolymer, the smaller the particle size. Zeta potential values of the nanocomposite were very high, ranging from +54.4 mV to +80.3 mV, and decreased from 63.2 down to +37.3 when loading with ampicillin. The chitosan/starch nanocomposites were also characterized by FT-IR to determine the content of polymers and ampicillin in the nanocomposites. The release kinetics of ampicillin from the nanocomposites were determined in vitro using an HPLC profile for 24 h. The loading efficiency (LE) of ampicillin into chitosan/starch nanoparticles ranged from 75.3 to 77.3%. Ampicillin-loaded chitosan/starch nanocomposites were investigated for their antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in vitro. The results demonstrate that the antibacterial effectiveness of nanochitosan/starch loading with ampicillin against E.coli was 95.41%, higher than the 91.40% effectiveness of ampicillin at the same concentration of 5.0 µg/mL after 24 h of treatment. These results suggest that chitosan/starch nanocomposites are potential nanomaterials for antibiotic drug delivery in the pharmaceutical field.

Effect of Surfactants on 1,2-Dichloroethane-in-Water Droplet Impacts at Electrified Liquid-Liquid Interface

In this work, we used the electrified liquid-liquid interface (eLLI) to study the fusion of DCE-in-water organic droplets (soft particles) upon coming into contact with the soft interface. Our focus was to define the effect of the neutral (1-tetradodecanol) and ionic (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and sodium dodecylsulfonate) surfactants that stabilize the colloidal solution on the electroanalytical output of the impact events. The electrochemically and interfacially active salt used in our work (tetramethylammonium tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl)borate) was always initially dissolved in the organic phase droplets. When the potential drop at the interface was set below the formal Galvani potential of the tetramethylammonium cation ion transfer, we observed ionic current events upon the fusion of the droplets at the eLLI, as studied by chronoamperometry. This phenomenon was found to be severely affected by the surfactants. Our system was investigated with several methods, including cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, interfacial tension measurements, and finally zeta potential and droplet size distribution measurements based on dynamic light scattering.

Uncovering the hetero-hydrophobic attraction between the basal planes of molybdenite and talc under flotation conditions

The very close natural floatability of molybdenite and talc has been traditionally believed as the main reason for their separation problem. However, the interactions between the basal and edge planes of the two platy minerals remain unclear. Here the hydrophobic attraction between the basal planes was proposed as the dominating factor for that problem. Flotation tests in both single and mixed mineral systems were conducted using carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as talc depressant and sodium isobutyl xanthate (SIBX) as molybdenite collector. Zeta potential distribution, contact angle, in situ optical microscope observation, EDLVO calculation and surface energy analysis were applied to reveal the surfacial actions between the basal and edge planes of molybdenite and talc. Molybdenite and talc showed obvious floatability difference in single mineral system, however, their separation efficiency met with big decline in mixed mineral system. Zeta potential results demonstrated that, in the presence of CMC and SIBX, negatively charged particles of molybdenite and talc aggregated rather than electrostatically repulsed and dispersed. The contact angle and particle adhesion results showed a certain degree of selective attraction between the basal planes of molybdenite and talc. The EDLVO calculation suggested the attractive interactions were ranked as: Mb(basal)-Tlc(edge) > Mb(basal)-Tlc(basal) ≈ Mb(edge)-Tlc(edge) > Mb(edge)-Tlc(basal). The surface energy calculation pointed out that the fundamental reason for the separation problem was exactly the hetero-hydrophobic attraction between their basal planes.

Development of bio sheet using nanoparticles and the confederation of protein for casting wound

This research pioneers a sustainable approach to wound healing by developing a bio sheet for dressings. It ingeniously incorporates healing properties of reduced graphene oxide synthesized via an eco-friendly method, using phytoextracts to eliminate toxic chemicals. Collagen extracted from fish waste and fibrinogen from post-animal waste contribute to the bio sheet's green profile. The study emphasizes the global shift towards utilizing natural materials in therapeutic applications for efficient wound healing while minimizing toxic side effects. The formulation involves a simple muffle treatment for the conversion of carbon to graphene oxide, followed by a greener reduction technique to synthesize rGO. Characterization- by peaks that obtained at 255 nm, 240 nm, 280 nm, 360 nm using UV–Vis analysis were confirmed the presents of desired carbon and glycoproteins, In X-ray diffraction (2θ value) we found peaks at 24.37°, 27.84°, 17.43° which indicated the presents of rGO, Fibrinogen, and Collagen, and FT-IR methods confirms the functional groups like OH, CH2, CC, CHO and NC in the derived materials and Zeta potential distribution were done for Compounds. To add up purity and efficiency analysis via GCMS were done for proteins. The resulting bio sheet, created in a controlled environment with a gelling agent, Undergoes morphological analysis through FESEM-EDX. Additional assessments, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hemocompatibility assays, illuminate the nature of the formulated bio sheet. To addition, biosheet is analyzed for physical and mechanical properties. Further insight is gained through the analysis of surface plots of the EDX images of both the composite and bio sheet using ImageJ software. This comprehensive approach underscores the potential of sustainable and naturally derived materials in advancing wound care technologies.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using leaf extract of Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) for potential therapeutic application

AbstractBACKGROUNDWoodfordia fruticosa is a well‐known medicinal plant traditionally used for various treatment methods. Green synthesis of silver nanocomposite with woodfordia flower extract is well‐investigated. However, the therapeutic potential of Woodfordia fruticosa leaf extract silver nanoparticles against various diseases has yet to be investigated.RESULTSSilver nanoparticles synthesized from Woodfordia fruticosa leaf extract (Wf‐AgNPs) showed UV spectral peaks at 450 nm. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, ranging from 20 to 50 nm, confirm the nanosynthesis. The average particle size of 39.63 nm with a zeta potential distribution value 17.0 was observed. Fourier transform infrared peaks ranging from 2942to 669 cm−1 confirm the amines, amides, carboxylic, aldehyde, alkane, phenolic and aliphatic bromo compounds involved in the synthesis of AgNPs. Wf‐AgNPs showed higher antioxidant activity compared to the ascorbic acid and BHT. The phenolic and flavonoid content was 141.66 ± 8.50 mg GAE/100 g dry weight and 191.66 ± 5.6 mg quercetin equivalent/100 g dry weight, respectively. Wf‐AgNPs showed a strong inverse relationship between the dose and viability of the cancer cells. The antibacterial properties of Wf‐AgNPs were confirmed through the bacteria's SEM images. Increased wound healing potential, re‐epithelization and elevation of the tensile strength of the infected skin tissue were observed after applying synthesized Wf‐AgNPs.CONCLUSIONVarious phytochemicals in the synthesized nanoparticles confer antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer and wound‐curing potentiality to the Wf‐AgNPs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).

Advanced application of tea residue extracts rich in polyphenols for enhancing sludge dewaterability: Unraveling the role of pH regulation

Tea polyphenols (TPs), as a kind of derivatives from tea waste, were employed as a novel environmentally friendly bio-based sludge conditioner in this study. The findings showed that when TPs were applied at a dosage of 300 mg g−1 DS, the sludge CST0/CST ratio significantly increased to 1.90. pH regulation was found to markedly affect the dewatering efficiency of sludge. At pH 4, the CST0/CST rose to 2.86, coupled with a reduction in the specific resistance to filtration (SRF) from 6.69 × 1013 m kg−1 to 1.43 × 1013 m kg−1 and a decrease in the moisture content (MC) from 90.57% to 68.75%. TPs formed complexes and precipitated sludge proteins, as demonstrated by changes in the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), viscosity, zeta potential, and particles size distribution. The optimization significance of acidification treatment on sludge structure disintegration, the interaction of TPs with EPS, and the removal of sludge proteins were elucidated. The research provided an ideal approach for the integrated utilization of biomass resources from tea waste and highlighted the potential application of TPs as an environmentally friendly conditioner in sludge dewatering.

Efficacy evaluation of hydrogen peroxide disinfectant based zinc oxide nanoparticles against diarrhea causing Escherichia coli in ruminant animals and broiler chickens

Different strains of Escherichia coli that exhibit genetic characteristics linked to diarrhea pose a major threat to both human and animal health. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli), the genetic linkages and routes of transmission between E. coli isolates from different animal species. The efficiency of disinfectants such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), Virkon®S, TH4+, nano zinc oxide (ZnO NPs), and H2O2-based zinc oxide nanoparticles (H2O2/ZnO NPs) against isolated strains of E. coli was evaluated. Using 100 fecal samples from different diarrheal species (cow n = 30, sheep n = 40, and broiler chicken n = 30) for E. coli isolation and identification using the entero-bacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC–PCR) fingerprinting technique. The E. coli properties isolated from several diarrheal species were examined for their pathogenicity in vitro. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectrum (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), zeta potential, and particle size distribution were used for the synthesis and characterization of ZnO NPs and H2O2/ZnO NPs. The broth macro-dilution method was used to assess the effectiveness of disinfectants and disinfectant-based nanoparticles against E. coli strains. Regarding the results, the hemolytic activity and Congo red binding assays of pathogenic E. coli isolates were 55.3 and 44.7%, respectively. Eleven virulent E. coli isolates were typed into five ERIC-types (A1, A2, B1, B2, and B3) using the ERIC-PCR method. These types clustered into two main clusters (A and B) with 75% similarity. In conclusion, there was 90% similarity between the sheep samples' ERIC types A1 and A2. On the other hand, 89% of the ERIC types B1, B2, and B3 of cows and poultry samples were comparable. The H2O2/ZnO NPs composite exhibits potential antibacterial action against E. coli isolates at 0.04 mg/ml after 120 min of exposure.

Coconut shell-derived activated carbon-enhanced water phase change material for cold thermal energy storage.

In building cooling, the demand for cooling surges during specific times, stressing air-conditioner operation, and additional cooling is often wasted during low-demand periods. Water-phase change material (W-PCM)-based thermal energy storage (TES) allows for load shifting and effective management of peak demand by storing cooling energy when the demand is low. This stored energy can be deployed during peak hours, decreasing energy usage and associated CO2 emissions. However, the use of W-PCMs was hindered by phase separation, slow energy transfer, and high supercooling degree (SCD). We synthesized coconut shell (CNS)-produced activated carbon (ACC) to use as a thermal enhancer in W-PCMs for the first time. First, ACC was synthesized from CNS via steam activation. Then, transmission electron microscopy was used to confirm the pore morphology of the CNS-ACC.The synthesis of the W-PCM with various weight percentages (0.1, 0.6, and 1.2) of CNS-ACC was accomplished in two steps. Zeta potential distribution analysis revealed that the W-PCM with CNS-ACC exhibited colloidal stability. Thermal conductivity (TC) and thermogram analyses revealed that a dose of 1.2 wt% CNS-ACC enhanced liquid and solid TC by 9% and 22%, respectively, despite a 6% and 8% decrease in specific heat and latent heat. More specifically, solidification assessment in a spherical enclosure revealed 100% suppression of SCD with 1.2 wt% CNS-ACC. As a result of this and the enhanced TC, the overall solidification process was accelerated, reducing the overall duration by 18.5%. Thus, the combination of CNS-derived ACC and W-PCM for TES in building cooling could reduce energy consumption and associated CO2 emissions.

The impact of metal ions on flotation of coal gasification fine slag: an experimental study

ABSTRACT This study investigates the flotation performance of coal gasification fine slag in the presence of metal ions with different valences. The impact of metal ions on the surface topography, wettability, zeta potential, functional group, and particle size distribution of coal gasification fine slag were analyzed. The results demonstrated that K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Al3+ all have a positive effect on flotation, with Al3+ being particularly effective. At a concentration of 0.2 mol/L, Al3+ increased the recovery of combustible matter in coal gasification fine slag from 66.70% to 91.05% compared to deionized water. Metal ions reduce the absolute value of the gasification fine slag potential, compress its double layer while increasing its surface hydrophobicity. Higher ion concentration leads to a closer-to-zero potential and increased hydrophobicity. Additionally, Al3+ promote diesel adsorption onto coal gasification fine slag. This work explains the effects of metal ions on coal gasification fine slag flotation.

Superhydrophilic and mixed-charge sponge: Revealing the mechanism of three-dimensional demulsification materials for oil-in-water emulsions under charge effect

In petroleum industries, the problem of difficult oil-water separation requires an urgent solution, superhydrophilic charged three-dimensional materials was verified effect for separating oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions, however, the mechanism was unclear. A superhydrophilic sponge SPP with various negative charge amounts and A-SPP with mixed-charge were modified by impregnation. Under gravity-driven filtration, the demulsification effect of SPP and A-SPP on the oil content, zeta potential, and size distribution of emulsion and their mechanism was explored. SPP treated the cationic surfactant stabilized o/w emulsion by electrostatic attraction, the more charged, the better effect, its separation efficiency reached 99.5%, reducing the emulsion zeta potential from 79.18 mV to 23.28 mV, but the droplet size fluctuated sharply illustrated the unstable effect, the single-charge was affected by surfactants. A-SPP realized demulsification by synergize of mixed-charge, treating anionic/cationic surfactant stabilized o/w emulsions with separation efficiency exceeded 99.9%, zeta potential of filtrate below ±15.75 mV, droplet size increased from 500 nm to 10 μm. A-SPP could treat o/w emulsions with different components and concentrations, had cycle stability (99% after 15 times), and tolerated abrasion and brine. A-SPP resembled a filter, the demulsification process of emulsified oil droplets was surface interception-electrostatic demulsification-contact coalescence-skeleton adhesion, the electrostatic, hydrophobic, capillary effects were the main roles. The superhydrophilic mixed-charge sponge can treat diverse emulsions with low energy consumption and high efficiency, revealing the mechanism of three-dimensional demulsification materials for o/w emulsions and creating potential for practical applications.

Optimum phosphate ion removal from aqueous solutions using roller kiln industrial solid waste

Water scarcity is the most imperative predicament that concerns the population. In this research, a roller kiln (RK) industrial solid waste was used in the adsorption of phosphate ions from aqueous solutions thus converting a waste to wealth through aiding in serving as a water treatment application. The RK waste was produced from an Egyptian factory with a flow rate of million tons/day. Surface characterization for this solid waste was performed including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), zeta potential (ZP), and particle size distribution (PSD). Based on the kinetics and isotherm studies, the pseudo first order (PFO) kinetic model and Freundlich isotherm model were the best-fitted models with the experimental data as well as the Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm model indicated that the adsorption type was physical. The attained experimental results were then optimized to attain the experimental conditions at which the optimum adsorption percentage was achieved using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimum percentage removal of phosphate ions 99.5 (%) was achieved at the following experimental conditions; pH 8, temperature = 25 °C, contact time = 9 min, initial phosphate ion concentration = 10 mg/L and adsorbent dose 0.5 = g/L.

Hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of purified lignin nanoparticles reinforced marine‐derived biopolymer composites

AbstractLignin has been considered the main aromatic renewable biopolymer. Besides its availability in large quantities as a major and low‐cost side product of several industries as a polysaccharide component of lignocellulosic biomass for industrial applications, it remains underutilized and as such, lignin valorization is highly desirable. This study was focused on the fabrication, purification, and characterization of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) from black liquor of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) empty fruit bunch (EFB). The functional properties of the LNPs investigated include the morphology, particle size, zeta potential distribution, elemental composition, functional groups, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The purified LNPs provided smaller particle sizes ranging from 32 to 62 nm while the unpurified sample sizes range between 53 and 88 nm. The zeta potential value of purified LNPs displays relatively good stability to the unpurified LNPs despite the consistency in their particle size spreading as observed from the TEM micrograph. The results of the GC–MS analysis signify that the purification procedure affects the compounds in the LNPs. The kappa‐carrageenan (KC) biopolymers reinforced with purified LNPs provided more organized surfaces than the biopolymers reinforced with unpurified LNPs, leading to enhanced hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of the bionanocomposites. This study shows the potential applications of valorized lignin from oil palm residue as a reinforcement agent in renewable packaging.Highlights Lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) were yielded from empty fruit bunch black liquor. Syringyl to guaiacyl ratio of LNPs was increased from 0.83 to 1.26. Biopolymers were prepared by incorporating LNPs into the kappa‐carrageenan. Biopolymer with 4% purified LNPs had an optimum contact angle of 106.83°. The optimized biopolymer showed an optimum tensile strength of 38.42 MPa.

Investigation into the physiochemical properties of soy protein isolate and concentrate powders from different manufacturers

SummaryThe physiochemical properties of five commercially available soy protein isolates (SPI) from different manufacturers and one soy protein concentrate were analysed. Despite their identical botanical origin and an almost interchangeable molecular weight profile, remarkable differences were revealed in their solubility, protein dispersibility index (PDI), water holding capacity (WHC), zeta potential (measured at different pHs) and particle size distribution. Protein solubility and PDI values, which can be considered as a simple and reliable measure of soy protein powder's suitability for industrial formulations such as extrusion premixes, revealed to be strongly intercorrelated, with SPI A, B and E showing higher values at pH 7.0 and 9.0 as compared to their counterparts (sample C and D). WHC appeared to be less influenced by solubility, but greatly by particle size distribution. SPI A, B and E showed largest increase in diameter upon hydration (‘swelling’) and gave the highest WHC.

Electrochemical sensing performance of two CuO nanomaterial-modified dual-working electrodes.

Two CuO nanostructures, namely, nanospheres (CuONSs) and nanochains (CuONCs) with different shapes but similar diameters, were synthesized and characterized. With these two nanomaterials as electrode modifiers, a systematic comparative study was conducted to examine their electrochemical sensing of catechol (CT) using a dual-working electrode system. The results suggest that for CuONS- and CuONC-modified glassy carbon electrodes, the electrode process for the CT redox is diffusion-controlled, and the modification amount and electrolyte pH have a similar effect on the response. However, the CuONCs showed a higher peak current and lower peak potential, as well as a lower detection limit for the electrochemical oxidation of CT. This is explained by the lower charge transfer impedance and higher electroactive surface area of the CuONCs. Notably, an unexpected peak appeared in the cyclic voltammograms when the pH was <4 for the CuONCs and <3 for the CuONSs. For this phenomenon, UV-Vis spectra, zeta potential, and size distribution experiments demonstrated changes in the two CuO nanostructures at lower pH, illustrating that CuONSs can tolerate a higher pH as compared to CuONCs. The multiple comparisons between the two nanomaterials presented here can provide references for the selection of electrochemical sensing materials.

The Bioactivity and Physicochemical Properties of Emulsions Based on Tamanu, Moringa, and Inca Inchi Oils.

With increasing bacterial resistance to antibiotics, novel strategies for protection against microbial infections are crucial. Emulsions enhance the solubility of natural antibacterial oils and their uptake, making them promising drug delivery systems. However, it is important to find the right emulsifier to ensure that the oil has the right dispersion and does not adversely affect its antibacterial properties. Hence, this study investigated emulsions created from three vegetable oils: moringa oil from Moringa oleifera seeds, inca inchi oil from Plukenetia volubilis seeds, and tamanu oil from the Calophyllum inophyllum fruit. Emulsions were formed using two natural emulsifiers, lecithin and casein, at concentrations of 2.5%, 5%, and 10% (w/w). The study assessed the oil and emulsions' characteristics, including the zeta potential, creaming index, and particle size distribution. The antimicrobial properties of these oils and the most stable emulsions were examined. Gas chromatography was used to analyze the oil compositions. The potential antimicrobial properties of emulsions formulated with natural oils was proved. Particularly noteworthy were emulsions containing a 2.5% inca inchi or tamanu oil, stabilized with casein. The particle size ranged between 100 nm and 900 nm with the average size 300 nm. These emulsions also showed antibacterial activity against selected strains, and the strongest effect was observed for the system with inca inchi oil, which reduced S. epidermidis bacterial activity by more than 60%. Therefore, it can be expected that the completed research will allow the development of antibacterial systems based on inca inchi or tamanu oils for use in the food industry.

Preparation, characterization and immune response of chitosan‑gold loaded Myricaria germanica polysaccharide

In this study, a novel nano-drug delivery system (CS-Au NPs) based on gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and chitosan (CS) that modified Myricaria germanica polysaccharide (MGP) was developed to enhance immune responses. At a MGP to CS Au ratio of 5:1, CS-Au-MGP NPs had a loading capacity of 78.27 %. The structure of CS-Au-MGP NPs were characterized by Transmission electron microscope, TEM-energy dispersive spectroscopy mapping, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, particle size and zeta-potential distribution analysis. Under weakly acidic conditions, in vitro CS-Au-MGP NPs release was most effective. In vivo showed that co-immunization with CS-Au-MGP NPs and PCV2 significantly increased the organ index of the thymus, spleen, and liver in mice. Additionally, CS-Au-MGP NPs significantly increased the levels of IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a antibodies, as well as IFN-γ and IL-6 levels. Furthermore, the CS-Au-MGP NPs promoted proliferation of spleen T and B lymphocytes, increased the number of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells, and increased the CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio. Meanwhile, CS-Au-MGP NPs remarkably TLR2/IRAK4 pathway activation and mRNA levels of cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-6). These results indicated that CS-Au-MGP NPs could enhance the immune activity, and it could be potentially used as an MGP delivery system for the induction of strong immune responses.

Xenogeneic Transplantation Promoted Human Exosome Sequestration in Rat Specific Organs.

Here, we aimed to study the distribution pattern of normal and cancer xenogeneic exosomes (Exos) and possible interspecies reactions in a rat model. Exos were isolated from normal Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Diameter size and zeta potential distribution were studied using dynamic light scattering (DLS). The morphology of isolated Exos was monitored by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Using western blotting, protein levels of exosomal tetraspanins were detected. For the in vivo study, Dil-labeled normal and cancer Exos were injected into the tail vein (100 µg exosomal protein/rat) three times at 1-hour intervals. After 24 hours, rats were euthanized and the cellular uptake of Exos was monitored in different organs using immunofluorescence staining (IF). The size distribution and mean zeta potential of HUVEC and MDA-MB-231 cells Exos were 80±29.94 and 64.77±25.49 nm, and -7.58 and -11.8 mV, respectively. Western blotting revealed CD9, CD81, and CD63 in normal and cancer Exos. The SEM images exhibited typical nano-sized round-shape Exo particles. IF staining indicated sequestration of administrated Exos in splenic tissue and lungs. The distribution of Exo in kidneys, aorta, and hepatic tissue was less. These features were more evident in the group that received cancer Exos. We found no obvious adverse effects in rats that received normal or cancer Exos. Normal and cancerous xenogeneic human Exos can be sequestrated prominently in splenic tissue and lungs. Novel delivery approaches and engineering tools are helpful in the target delivery of administrated Exos to the injured sites.

Lenvatinib-Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Nanoparticles with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Antibody Conjugation as a Preclinical Approach to Therapeutically Improve Thyroid Cancer with Aggressive Behavior.

Lenvatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for the treatment of progressive and radioactive iodine (RAI)-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), is associated with significant adverse effects that can be partially mitigated through the development of novel drug formulations. The utilization of nanoparticles presents a viable option, as it allows for targeted drug delivery, reducing certain side effects and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients. This study aimed to produce and assess, both in vitro and in vivo, the cytotoxicity, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (NPs), both with and without decoration using antibody conjugation (cetuximab), as a novel therapeutic approach for managing aggressive thyroid tumors. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (NPs), decorated with or without anti-EGFR, were employed as a lenvatinib delivery system. These NPs were characterized for size distribution, surface morphology, surface charge, and drug encapsulation efficiency. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through MTT assays using two cellular models, one representing normal thyroid cells (Nthy-ori 3-1) and the other representing anaplastic thyroid cells (CAL-62). Additionally, an in vivo xenograft mouse model was established to investigate biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy following intragastric administration. The NPs demonstrated success in terms of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, and cetuximab distribution across the surface. In vitro analysis revealed cytotoxicity in both cellular models with both formulations, but only the decorated NPs achieved an ID50 value in CAL-62 cells. Biodistribution analysis following intragastric administration in xenografted thyroid mice demonstrated good stability in terms of intestinal barrier function and tumor accumulation. Both formulations were generally well tolerated without inducing pathological effects in the examined organs. Importantly, both formulations increased tumor necrosis; however, decorated NPs exhibited enhanced parameters related to apoptotic/karyolytic forms, mitotic index, and vascularization compared with NPs without decoration. These proof-of-concept findings suggest a promising strategy for administering TKIs in a more targeted and effective manner.

Pb(II) removal using calcium silicates synthesised from industrial wastes: process optimisation and kinetic modelling

ABSTRACT This study investigates the potential of calcium silicates (CS) synthesised from granite and marble waste as an adsorbent for sustainable waste management. A simple and chemical-free synthesis method was adopted in the preparation of CS. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, zeta potential and particle size distribution techniques were used for the characterisation of CS. As Pb(II) and its derivatives from various industrial effluents exercise significant negative impact on the environment and human health, an attempt was made to remove Pb(II) by adsorption process. Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the feasibility of removal of pb(II) using CS. The zeta potential value of −83.7 mV and the mean particle size of 916 nm for the prepared CS can enhance adsorption process. The analysis of various adsorption kinetic models reveals that pseudo second order kinetic model exhibited a favourable level of agreement with kinetic data (R2 = 0.999). Response surface methodology utilising central composite design was employed to evaluate various process parameters, such as initial Pb(II) concentration, pH, adsorbent dosage and sonication time on adsorption process. Results from 30 experimental runs performed in accordance with model recommendations concluded that the effect of selected parameters with an R2 value of 0.937 was adequate for the current study. In order to assess the goodness of fit and statistical significance of the model’s performance, ANOVA and Lack of Fit (LOF) tests were conducted. The findings show that Pb(II) can be easily removed from the aqueous solutions using CS as an adsorbent under optimal experimental conditions of 100 mg/l Pb(II) initial concentration, 2 g/l adsorbent dosage, pH of 8 and a sonication time of 45 min.