Displaying publications 21 - 40 of 10157 in total

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  1. Novel enhancement of interfacial interaction and properties in biodegradable polymer composites using green chemically treated spent coffee ground microfiller
    Majrashi MAA, Bairwan RD, Mushtaq RY, Khalil HPSA, Badr MY, Alissa M, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 May;266(Pt 2):131333.
    PMID: 38574916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131333
    This study investigates the potential of utilizing green chemically treated spent coffee grounds (SCGs) as micro biofiller reinforcement in Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) biopolymer composites. The aim is to assess the impact of varying SCG concentrations (1 %, 3 %, 5 %, and 7 %) on the functional, thermal, mechanical properties and biodegradability of the resulting composites with a PHBV matrix. The samples were produced through melt compounding using a twin-screw extruder and compression molding. The findings indicate successful dispersion and distribution of SCGs microfiller into PHBV. Chemical treatment of SCG microfiller enhanced the interfacial bonding between the SCG and PHBV, evidenced by higher water contact angles of the biopolymer composites. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) confirmed the successful interaction of treated SCG microfiller, contributing to enhanced mechanical characteristics. A two-way ANOVA was conducted for statistical analysis. Mass losses observed after burying the materials in natural soil indicated that the composites degraded faster than the pure PHBV polymer suggesting that both composites are biodegradable, particularly at high levels of spent coffee grounds (SCG). Despite the possibility of agglomeration at higher concentrations, SCG incorporation resulted in improved functional properties, positioning the green biopolymer composite as a promising material for sustainable packaging and diverse applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Green Chemistry Technology; Biodegradable Plastics/chemistry
  2. Recent progress in ZnCr and NiCr layered double hydroxides and based photocatalysts for water treatment and clean energy production
    Rana S, Kumar A, Lai CW, Sharma G, Dhiman P
    Chemosphere, 2024 May;356:141800.
    PMID: 38554860 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141800
    In pursuit of advancing photocatalysts for superior performance in water treatment and clean energy generation, researchers are increasingly focusing on layered double hydroxides (LDHs) which have garnered significant attention due to their customizable properties, morphologies, distinctive 2D layered structure and flexible options for modifying anions and cations. No review has previously delved specifically into ZnCr and NiCr LDH-based photocatalysts and therefore, this review highlights the recent surge in ZnCr and NiCr-based LDHs as potential photocatalysts for their applications in water purification and renewable energy generation. The structural and fundamental characteristics of layered double hydroxides and especially ZnCr-LDHs and NiCr-LDHs are outlined. Further, the various synthesis techniques for the preparation of ZnCr-LDHs, NiCr-LDHs and their composite and heterostructure materials have been briefly discussed. The applicability of ZnCr-LDH and NiCr-LDH based photocatalysts in tackling significant issues in water treatment and sustainable energy generation is the main emphasis of this review. It focuses on photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater, elucidating the principles and advancements for enhancing the efficiency of these materials. It also explores their role in H2 production through water splitting, conversion of CO2 into valuable fuels and NH3 synthesis from N2, shedding light on their potential for clean energy solutions. The insights presented herein offer valuable guidance for researchers working towards sustainable solutions for environmental remediation and renewable energy generation.
    Matched MeSH terms: Water Pollutants, Chemical/chemistry; Waste Water/chemistry
  3. The effect of spent coffee ground (SCG) loading, matrix ratio and biological treatment of SCG on poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) polymer blend
    Boey JY, Kong U, Lee CK, Lim GK, Oo CW, Tan CK, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 May;266(Pt 2):131079.
    PMID: 38537860 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131079
    This study investigates the effects of SCG embedded into biodegradable polymer blends and aimed to formulate and characterise biomass-reinforced biocomposites using spent coffee ground (SCG) as reinforcement in PHB/PLA polymer blend. The effect of SCG filler loading and varying PHB/PLA ratios on the tensile properties and morphological characteristics of the biocomposites were examined. The results indicated that tensile properties reduction could be due to its incompatibility with the PHB/PLA matrixSCG aggregation at 40 wt% content resulted in higher void formation compared to lower content at 10 wt%. A PHB/PLA ratio of 50/50 with SCG loading 20 wt% was chosen for biocomposites with treated SCG. Biological treatment of SCG using Phanerochaete chrysosporium CK01 and Aspergillus niger DWA8 indicated P. chrysosporium CK01 necessitated a higher moisture content for optimum growth and enzyme production, whereas the optimal conditions for enzyme production (50-55 %, w/w) differed from those promoting A. niger DWA8 growth (40 %, w/w). SEM micrographs highlighted uniform distribution and effective wetting of treated SCG, resulting in improvements of tensile strength and modulus of biocomposites, respectively. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of sustainable fungal treatment in enhancing the interfacial adhesion between treated SCG and the PHB/PLA matrix.
    Matched MeSH terms: Polymers/chemistry
  4. Remediation of oily-produced water from high-salinity oilfield using a low-cost, high-alumina calcium bentonite hollow fiber membrane
    Mohamad Esham MI, Ahmad AL, Othman MHD, Adam MR
    J Environ Manage, 2024 May;358:120894.
    PMID: 38643621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120894
    Discharging improperly treated oily-produced water (OPW) into the environment can have significant negative impacts on environmental sustainability. It can lead to pollution of water sources, damage to aquatic ecosystems and potential health hazards for individuals living in the affected areas. Ceramic hollow fiber membrane (CHFM) technology is one of the most effective OPW treatment methods for achieving high oil removal efficiency while maintaining membrane water permeability. In this study, low-cost calcium bentonite hollow fiber membranes (CaB-HFMs) were prepared from high-alumina calcium bentonite clay with various preparation parameters, including calcium bentonite content, sintering temperature, air gap distance and bore fluid rate. The prepared CaB-HFMs were then subjected to characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a three-point bending test, porosity, average pore size, hydraulic resistance and flux recovery ratio (FRR) analysis. Statistical analysis employing central composite design (CCD) assessed the interaction between the parameters and their effect on CaB-HFM water permeability and oil removal efficiency. Higher ceramic content and sintering temperature led to reduced porosity, smaller pore size and higher mechanical strength. In contrast, increasing the air gap distance and bore fluid rate exhibit different trends, resulting in higher porosity and pore size, along with weaker mechanical strength. Other than that, all of the CaB-HFMs displayed low hydraulic resistance (<0.01 m2 h.bar/L) and high FRR value (up to 95.2%). Based on CCD, optimal conditions for CaB-HFM were determined as follows: a calcium bentonite content of 50 wt.%, a sintering temperature of 1096 °C, an air gap distance of 5 cm and a bore fluid rate of 10 mL/min, with the desirability value of 0.937. Notably, the optimized CaB-HFMs demonstrated high oil removal efficiency of up to 99.7% with exceptional water permeability up to 535.2 L/m2.h.bar. The long-term permeation study also revealed it was capable of achieving a high average water permeation and a stable oil rejection performance of 522.15 L/m2.h.bar and 99.8%, respectively, due to their inherent hydrophilic and antifouling characteristics, making it practical for OPW treatment application.
    Matched MeSH terms: Calcium/chemistry
  5. Potent halogenated xanthone derivatives: synthesis, molecular docking and study on antityrosinase activity
    Baharuddin FF, Mad Nasir N, Tejo BA, Koh SP, Ramakrishnan S, Nordin NQAA, et al.
    J Asian Nat Prod Res, 2024 May;26(5):575-582.
    PMID: 37796247 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2023.2264784
    Tyrosinase inhibitors can reduce melanin production for skin whitening, but some existing products may harm the skin. This study discovered six compounds that inhibit tyrosinase in the mushroom Agaricus bisporus by over 50%. Compound 11 displayed strong inhibition (92.2% and 86.7%) for L-tyrosine and L-DOPA substrates, while compound 13 showed high inhibition (96.0% and 62.0%) for both substrates. Molecular docking simulations revealed compounds 11 and 13 bind at the allosteric site of the enzyme. Xanthone derivatives, based on these findings, hold potential as safe skin whitening agents and for pigmentation-related diseases in the cosmetic industry.
    Matched MeSH terms: Enzyme Inhibitors/chemistry; Tyrosine/chemistry
  6. Fulltext Synergistic interaction between scrap tyre and plastics for the production of sulphur-free, light oil from fast co-pyrolysis
    Dewi WN, Zhou Q, Mollah M, Yang S, Ilankoon IMSK, Chaffee A, et al.
    Waste Manag, 2024 Apr 30;179:99-109.
    PMID: 38471253 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.03.007
    Fast co-pyrolysis offers a sustainable solution for upcycling polymer waste, including scrap tyre and plastics. Previous studies primarily focused on slow heating rates, neglecting synergistic mechanisms and sulphur transformation in co-pyrolysis with tyre. This research explored fast co-pyrolysis of scrap tyre with polypropylene (PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polystyrene (PS) to understand synergistic effects and sulphur transformation mechanisms. A pronounced synergy was observed between scrap tyre and plastics, with the nature of the synergy being plastic-type dependent. Remarkably, blending 75 wt% PS or LDPE with tyre effectively eliminated sulphur-bearing compounds in the liquid product. This reduction in sulphur content can substantially mitigate the release of hazardous materials into the environment, emphasizing the environmental significance of co-pyrolysis. The synergy between PP or LDPE and tyre amplified the production of lighter hydrocarbons, while PS's interaction led to the creation of monocyclic aromatics. These findings offer insights into the intricate chemistry of scrap tyre and plastic interactions and highlight the potential of co-pyrolysis in waste management. By converting potential pollutants into valuable products, this method can significantly reduce the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
    Matched MeSH terms: Plastics/chemistry
  7. Preparation and Preliminary Structure-Activity Relationship Studies of Schwarzinicine A Analogs as Vasorelaxant Agents
    Lee FK, Chan NJ, Krishnan P, Datu Abdul Salam DS, Chee XW, Muhamad A, et al.
    J Nat Prod, 2024 Apr 26;87(4):675-691.
    PMID: 38442031 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00707
    Schwarzinicines A-D, a series of alkaloids recently discovered from Ficus schwarzii, exhibit pronounced vasorelaxant activity in rat isolated aorta. Building on this finding, a concise synthesis of schwarzinicines A and B has been reported, allowing further investigations into their biological properties. Herein, a preliminary exploration of the chemical space surrounding the structure of schwarzinicine A (1) was carried out aiming to identify structural features that are essential for vasorelaxant activity. A total of 57 analogs were synthesized and tested for vasorelaxant activity in rat isolated aorta. Both efficacy (Emax) and potency (EC50) of these analogs were compared. In addition to identifying structural features that are required for activity or associated with potency enhancement effect, four analogs showed significant potency improvements of up to 40.2-fold when compared to 1. Molecular dynamics simulation of a tetrameric 44-bound transient receptor potential canonical-6 (TRPC6) protein indicated that 44 could potentially form important interactions with the residues Glu509, Asp530, Lys748, Arg758, and Tyr521. These results may serve as a foundation for guiding further structural optimization of the schwarzinicine A scaffold, aiming to discover even more potent analogs.
    Matched MeSH terms: Alkaloids/chemistry; Ficus/chemistry
  8. Phospholipid Complex Formulation Technology for Improved Drug Delivery in Oncological Settings: a Comprehensive Review
    Patil J, Pawde DM, Bhattacharya S, Srivastava S
    AAPS PharmSciTech, 2024 Apr 25;25(5):91.
    PMID: 38664316 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-024-02813-x
    Addressing poor solubility and permeability issues associated with synthetic drugs and naturally occurring active compounds is crucial for improving bioavailability. This review explores the potential of phospholipid complex formulation technology to overcome these challenges. Phospholipids, as endogenous molecules, offer a viable solution, with drugs complexed with phospholipids demonstrating a similar absorption mechanism. The non-toxic and biodegradable nature of the phospholipid complex positions it as an ideal candidate for drug delivery. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms underlying phospholipid complexes. Special emphasis is placed on the solvent evaporation method, with meticulous scrutiny of formulation aspects such as the phospholipid ratio to the drug and solvent. Characterization techniques are employed to understand structural and functional attributes. Highlighting the adaptability of the phospholipid complex, the review discusses the loading of various nanoformulations and emulsion systems. These strategies aim to enhance drug delivery and efficacy in various malignancies, including breast, liver, lung, cervical, and pancreatic cancers. The broader application of the drug phospholipid complex is showcased, emphasizing its adaptability in diverse oncological settings. The review not only explores the mechanisms and formulation aspects of phospholipid complexes but also provides an overview of key clinical studies and patents. These insights contribute to the intellectual and translational advancements in drug phospholipid complexes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Chemistry, Pharmaceutical/methods; Drug Carriers/chemistry; Emulsions/chemistry
  9. Fulltext Design of three-component essential oil extract mixture from Cymbopogon flexuosus, Carum carvi, and Acorus calamus with enhanced antioxidant activity
    Assaggaf H, Jeddi M, Mrabti HN, Ez-Zoubi A, Qasem A, Attar A, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Apr 22;14(1):9195.
    PMID: 38649707 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59708-x
    The development of novel antioxidant compounds with high efficacy and low toxicity is of utmost importance in the medicine and food industries. Moreover, with increasing concerns about the safety of synthetic components, scientists are beginning to search for natural sources of antioxidants, especially essential oils (EOs). The combination of EOs may produce a higher scavenging profile than a single oil due to better chemical diversity in the mixture. Therefore, this exploratory study aims to assess the antioxidant activity of three EOs extracted from Cymbopogon flexuosus, Carum carvi, and Acorus calamus in individual and combined forms using the augmented-simplex design methodology. The in vitro antioxidant assays were performed using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging approaches. The results of the Chromatography Gas-Mass spectrometry (CG-MS) characterization showed that citral (29.62%) and niral (27.32%) are the main components for C. flexuosus, while D-carvone (62.09%) and D-limonene (29.58%) are the most dominant substances in C. carvi. By contrast, β-asarone (69.11%) was identified as the principal component of A. calamus (30.2%). The individual EO exhibits variable scavenging activities against ABTS and DPPH radicals. These effects were enhanced through the mixture of the three EOs. The optimal antioxidant formulation consisted of 20% C. flexuosus, 53% C. carvi, and 27% A. calamus for DPPHIC50. Whereas 17% C. flexuosus, 43% C. carvi, and 40% A. calamus is the best combination leading to the highest scavenging activity against ABTS radical. These findings suggest a new research avenue for EOs combinations to be developed as novel natural formulations useful in food and biopharmaceutical products.
    Matched MeSH terms: Biphenyl Compounds/chemistry; Free Radical Scavengers/chemistry
  10. Internal Factors Affecting the Crystallization of the Lipid System: Triacylglycerol Structure, Composition, and Minor Components
    Yang D, Lee YY, Lu Y, Wang Y, Zhang Z
    Molecules, 2024 Apr 18;29(8).
    PMID: 38675667 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29081847
    The process of lipid crystallization influences the characteristics of lipid. By changing the chemical composition of the lipid system, the crystallization behavior could be controlled. This review elucidates the internal factors affecting lipid crystallization, including triacylglycerol (TAG) structure, TAG composition, and minor components. The influence of these factors on the TAG crystal polymorphic form, nanostructure, microstructure, and physical properties is discussed. The interplay of these factors collectively influences crystallization across various scales. Variations in fatty acid chain length, double bonds, and branching, along with their arrangement on the glycerol backbone, dictate molecular interactions within and between TAG molecules. High-melting-point TAG dominates crystallization, while liquid oil hinders the process but facilitates polymorphic transitions. Unique molecular interactions arise from specific TAG combinations, yielding molecular compounds with distinctive properties. Nanoscale crystallization is significantly impacted by liquid oil and minor components. The interaction between the TAG and minor components determines the influence of minor components on the crystallization process. In addition, future perspectives on better design and control of lipid crystallization are also presented.
    Matched MeSH terms: Fatty Acids/chemistry; Lipids/chemistry
  11. Colloidal surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic study of grouper epidermal mucus using acidified sodium sulphate as the aggregating agent
    Leong N, Yaacob MH, Md Zain AR, Tengku Abdul Aziz TH, Christianus A, Chong CM, et al.
    Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc, 2024 Apr 15;311:123974.
    PMID: 38377639 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.123974
    Fish epidermal mucus is an important reservoir of antipathogenic compounds which serves as the first line of the immune defence. Despite its significant role in the physiology and health of fish, detailed profiling of fish epidermal mucus has yet to be explored. Therefore, this study investigates a label-free colloidal surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) method for profiling grouper mucus. Gold nanoparticles were first synthesised using the standard citrate reduction and characterised using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The influence of acidified sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) at pH 3 as the aggregating agent on the enhancement of the SERS spectrum of different analyte samples including rhodamine 6G (R6G) dye, lysozyme solution and hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × Epinephelus lanceolatus) mucus was observed. Based on the results, an optimal Na2SO4 concentration of 1 M was recorded to achieve the highest enhancement of the SERS signal for R6G and grouper mucus, while the optimal concentration for lysozyme was 0.1 M. The results indicated a higher degree of aggregation induced by lysozyme than R6G and grouper mucus. A few overlapping peaks of the SERS spectra of lysozyme and grouper mucus made it possible to confirm the presence of lysozyme as potential biomarkers.
    Matched MeSH terms: Gold/chemistry
  12. Differential capacity of phragmites ecotypes in remediation of inorganic contaminants in coastal ecosystems: Implications for climate change
    Akhter N, Aqeel M, Shazia, Irshad MK, Shehnaz MM, Lee SS, et al.
    Environ Res, 2024 Apr 15;247:118127.
    PMID: 38220075 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118127
    Remediating inorganic pollutants is an important part of protecting coastal ecosystems, which are especially at risk from the effects of climate change. Different Phragmites karka (Retz) Trin. ex Steud ecotypes were gathered from a variety of environments, and their abilities to remove inorganic contaminants from coastal wetlands were assessed. The goal is to learn how these ecotypes process innovation might help reduce the negative impacts of climate change on coastal environments. The Phragmites karka ecotype E1, found in a coastal environment in Ichkera that was impacted by residential wastewater, has higher biomass production and photosynthetic pigment content than the Phragmites karka ecotypes E2 (Kalsh) and E3 (Gatwala). Osmoprotectant accumulation was similar across ecotypes, suggesting that all were able to successfully adapt to polluted marine environments. The levels of both total soluble sugars and proteins were highest in E2. The amount of glycine betaine (GB) rose across the board, with the highest levels being found in the E3 ecotype. The study also demonstrated that differing coastal habitats significantly influenced the antioxidant activity of all ecotypes, with E1 displaying the lowest superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, while E2 exhibited the lowest peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities. Significant morphological changes were evident in E3, such as an expansion of the phloem, vascular bundle, and metaxylem cell areas. When compared to the E3 ecotype, the E1 and E2 ecotypes showed striking improvements across the board in leaf anatomy. Mechanistic links between architectural and physio-biochemical alterations are crucial to the ecological survival of different ecotypes of Phragmites karka in coastal environments affected by climate change. Their robustness and capacity to reduce pollution can help coastal ecosystems endure in the face of persistent climate change.
    Matched MeSH terms: Poaceae/chemistry
  13. Fulltext Isolation and characterisation of lignin using natural deep eutectic solvents pretreated kenaf fibre biomass
    Meraj A, Jawaid M, Singh SP, Nasef MM, Ariffin H, Fouad H, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Apr 15;14(1):8672.
    PMID: 38622317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59200-6
    Extraction of lignin via green methods is a crucial step in promoting the bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomasses. In the present study, utilisation of natural deep eutectic solvent for the pretreatment of kenaf fibres biomass is performed. Furthermore, extracted lignin from natural deep eutectic solvent pretreated kenaf biomass was carried out and its comparative study with commercial lignin was studied. The extracted lignin was characterized and investigated through Infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. FTIR Spectra shows that all samples have almost same set of absorption bands with slight difference in frequencies. CHNS analysis of natural deep eutectic solvent pretreated kenaf fibre showed a slight increase in carbon % from 42.36 to 43.17% and an increase in nitrogen % from - 0.0939 to - 0.1377%. Morphological analysis of commercial lignin shows irregular/uneven surfaces whereas natural deep eutectic solvent extracted lignin shows smooth and wavy surface. EDX analysis indicated noticeable peaks for oxygen and carbon elements which are present in lignocellulosic biomass. Thermal properties showed that lignin is constant at higher temperatures due to more branching and production of extremely condensed aromatic structures. In UV-VIS spectroscopy, commercial lignin shows slightly broad peak between 300 and 400 nm due to presence of carbonyl bond whereas, natural deep eutectic solvent extracted lignin does not show up any peak in this range. XRD results showed that the crystallinity index percentage for kenaf and natural deep eutectic solvent treated kenaf was 70.33 and 69.5% respectively. Therefore, these innovative solvents will undoubtedly have significant impact on the development of clean, green, and sustainable products for biocatalysts, extraction, electrochemistry, adsorption applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Solvents/chemistry
  14. How the immune mousetrap works: Structural evidence for the immunomodulatory action of a peptide from influenza NS1 protein
    Zabrodskaya Y, Tsvetkov V, Shurygina AP, Vasyliev K, Shaldzhyan A, Gorshkov A, et al.
    Biophys Chem, 2024 Apr;307:107176.
    PMID: 38219420 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107176
    One of the critical stages of the T-cell immune response is the dimerization of the intramembrane domains of T-cell receptors (TCR). Structural similarities between the immunosuppressive domains of viral proteins and the transmembrane domains of TCR have led several authors to hypothesize the mechanism of immune response suppression by highly pathogenic viruses: viral proteins embed themselves in the membrane and act on the intramembrane domain of the TCRalpha subunit, hindering its functional oligomerization. It has also been suggested that this mechanism is used by influenza A virus in NS1-mediated immunosuppression. We have shown that the peptide corresponding to the primary structure of the potential immunosuppressive domain of NS1 protein (G51) can reduce concanavalin A-induced proliferation of PBMC cells, as well as in vitro, G51 can affect the oligomerization of the core peptide corresponding to the intramembrane domain of TCR, using AFM and small-angle neutron scattering. The results obtained using in cellulo and in vitro model systems suggest the presence of functional interaction between the NS1 fragment and the intramembrane domain of the TCR alpha subunit. We have proposed a possible scheme for such interaction obtained by computer modeling. This suggests the existence of another NS1-mediated mechanism of immunosuppression in influenza.
    Matched MeSH terms: Viral Nonstructural Proteins/chemistry
  15. The role of sheet-like TiO2 in polyamide reverse osmosis membrane for enhanced removal of endocrine disrupting chemicals
    Ahmad NA, Goh PS, Zakaria NAS, Naim R, Abdullah MS, Ismail AF, et al.
    Chemosphere, 2024 Apr;353:141108.
    PMID: 38423147 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141108
    Thin film composite (TFC) reverse osmosis (RO) membrane shows good promise for treating wastewater containing endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) pollutants. The incorporation of functional materials with exceptional structural and physico-chemical properties offers opportunities for the membranes preparation with enhanced permselectivity and better antifouling properties. The present study aims to improve the EDC removal efficiency of TFC RO membrane using two-dimensional titania nanosheets (TNS). RO membrane was prepared by incorporating TNS in the dense layer of polyamide (PA) layer to form thin film nanocomposite (TFN) membrane. The TNS loading was varied and the influences on membrane morphology, surface hydrophilicity, surface charge, as well as water permeability and rejection of EDC were investigated. The results revealed that the inclusion of TNS in the membrane resulted in the increase of water permeability and EDC rejection. When treating the mixture of bisphenol A (BPA) and caffeine at 100 ppm feed concentration, the TFN membrane incorporated with 0.05% TNS achieved water permeability of 1.45 L/m2·h·bar, which was 38.6% higher than that of unmodified TFC membrane, while maintaining satisfactory rejection of >97%. The enhancement of water permeability for TFN membrane can be attributed to their hydrophilic surface and unique nanochannel structure created by the nanoscale interlayer spacing via staking of TiO2 nanosheets. Furthermore, the 0.05TFN membrane exhibited excellent fouling resistance towards BPA and caffeine pollutants with almost 100% flux recovery for three cycles of operations.
    Matched MeSH terms: Nylons/chemistry; Water/chemistry
  16. A novel chitosan-alginate@Fe/Mn mixed oxide nanocomposite for highly efficient removal of Cr (VI) from wastewater: Experiment and adsorption mechanism
    Alqarni LS, Algethami JS, El Kaim Billah R, Alorabi AQ, Alnaam YA, Algethami FK, et al.
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Apr;263(Pt 2):129989.
    PMID: 38354916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129989
    In this study, the synthesis and experimental theoretical evaluation of a new chitosan/alginate/hydrozyapatite nanocomposite doped with Mn2 and Fe2O3 for Cr removal was reported. The physicochemical properties of the obtained materials were analyzed using the following methods: SEM-EDX, XRD, FTIR, XPS, pH drift measurements, and thermal analysis. The adsorption properties were estimated based on equilibrium and adsorption kinetics measurements. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms were applied to analyze the equilibrium data. The thermodynamic analysis of adsorption isotherms was performed. A number of equations and kinetic models were used to describe the adsorption rate data, including pseudo-first (PFOE) and pseudo-second (PSOE) order kinetic equations. The obtained test results show that the synthesized biomaterial, compared to pure chitosan, is characterized by greater resistance to high temperatures. Moreover, this biomaterial had excellent adsorption properties. For the adsorption of Cr (VI), the equilibrium state was reached after 120 min, and the sorption capacity was 455.9 mg/g. In addition, DFT calculations and NCI analyses were performed to get more light on the adsorption mechanism of Cr (VI) on the prepared biocomposite.
    Matched MeSH terms: Alginates/chemistry; Chromium/chemistry; Ferric Compounds/chemistry
  17. Production of eco-friendly adsorbent of kaolin clay and cellulose extracted from peanut shells for removal of methylene blue and congo red removal dyes
    Reghioua A, Atia D, Hamidi A, Jawad AH, Abdulhameed AS, Mbuvi HM
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Apr;263(Pt 1):130304.
    PMID: 38382796 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130304
    This present work targets the production of an eco-friendly adsorbent (hereinafter KA/CEL) from kaolin clay functionalized with cellulose extract obtained from peanut shells. The adsorbents were used for decolorization of two different types of organic dyes (cationic: methylene blue, MB; anionic: Congo red, CR) from an aqueous environment. Several analytical methods, including Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (surface properties), Fourier Transforms infrared (functionality), scanning electron microscope, Energy dispersive X-Ray (morphology), and pHpzc test (surface charge), were used to attain the physicochemical characteristics of KA/CEL. The Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was applied to determine the crucial factors affecting adsorption performance. These included cellulose loading at 25 %, an adsorbent dose of 0.06 g, solution pH set at 10 for MB and 7 for CR, a temperature of 45 °C, and contact times of 12.5 min for MB and 20 min for CR dye. The adsorption data exhibited better agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich models. The Langmuir model estimated the monolayer capacity to be 291.5 mg/g for MB and 130.7 mg/g for CR at a temperature of 45 °C. This study's pivotal finding underscores the promising potential of KA/CEL as an effective adsorbent for treating wastewater contaminated with organic dyes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Coloring Agents/chemistry
  18. Synthesis and characterization of marine seagrass (Cymodocea serrulata) mediated titanium dioxide nanoparticles for antibacterial, antibiofilm and antioxidant properties
    Narayanan M, Srinivasan S, Gnanasekaran C, Ramachandran G, Chelliah CK, Rajivgandhi G, et al.
    Microb Pathog, 2024 Apr;189:106595.
    PMID: 38387848 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106595
    Cymodocea serrulata mediated titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) were successfully synthesized. The XRD pattern and FTIR spectra demonstrated the crystalline structure of TiO2 NPs and the presence of phenols, flavonoids and alkaloids in the extract. Further SEM revealed that TiO2 NPs has uniform structure and spherical in shape with their size ranged from 58 to 117 nm. Antibacterial activity of TiO2 NPs against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae), provided the zone of inhibition of 33.9 ± 1.7 and 36.3 ± 1.9 mm, respectively at 100 μg/mL concentration. MIC of TiO2 NPs against MRSA and V. cholerae showed 84% and 87% inhibition at 180 μg/mL and 160 μg/mL respectively. Subsequently, the sub-MIC of V. cholerae demonstrated minimal or no impact on bacterial growth at concentration of 42.5 μg/mL concentration. In addition, TiO2 NPs exhibited their ability to inhibit the biofilm forming V. cholerae which caused distinct morphological and intercellular damages analysed using CLSM and TEM. The antioxidant properties of TiO2 NPs were demonstrated through TAA and DPPH assays and exposed its scavenging activity with IC50 value of 36.42 and 68.85 μg/mL which denotes its valuable antioxidant properties with potential health benefits. Importantly, the brine shrimp based lethality experiment yielded a low cytotoxic effect with 13% mortality at 100 μg/mL. In conclusion, the multifaceted attributes of C. serrulata mediated TiO2 NPs encompassed the antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-biofilm inhibition effects with low cytotoxicity in nature were highlighted in this study and proved the bioderived TiO2 NPs could be used as a promising agent for biomedical applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry; Antioxidants/chemistry; Plant Extracts/chemistry
  19. Mechanistic insight of α-mangostin encapsulation in 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin for solubility enhancement
    Muchtaridi M, Triwahyuningtyas D, Muhammad Fakih T, Megantara S, Choi SB
    J Biomol Struct Dyn, 2024 Apr;42(6):3223-3232.
    PMID: 37286382 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2214237
    α-Mangostin is the most abundant compound contained in the mangostin (Garcinia mangostana L.) plant which have been developed and proven to have many promising pharmacological effects. However, the low water solubility of α-mangostin causes limitations in its development in clinical purpose. To increase the solubility of a compound, a method currently being developed is to make drug inclusion complexes using cyclodextrins. This research aimed to use in silico techniques namely molecular docking study and molecular dynamics simulation to explore the molecular mechanism and stability of the encapsulation of α-mangostin using cyclodextrins. Two types of cyclodextrins were used including β-cyclodextrin and 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin docked against α-mangostin. From the molecular docking results, it shows that the α-mangostin complex with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin provides the lowest binding energy value of -7.99 Kcal/mol compared to β-cyclodextrin value of -6.14 Kcal/mol. The α-mangostin complex with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin also showed good stability based on molecular dynamics simulation during 100 ns. From molecular motion, RDF, Rg, SASA, density, total energy analyzes, this complex shows increased solubility in water and provided good stability. This indicates that the encapsulation of α-mangostin with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin can increase the solubility of the α-mangostin.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
    Matched MeSH terms: Water/chemistry
  20. Fractionation and physicochemical characterization of dietary fiber of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed
    Nevara GA, Muhammad SKS, Zawawi N, Mustapha NA, Karim R
    J Sci Food Agric, 2024 Apr;104(6):3216-3227.
    PMID: 38072678 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.13208
    BACKGROUND: Kenaf seeds are underutilized kenaf plant by-products, containing essential nutrients including dietary fiber (DF), which can be potentially utilized as food ingredients. The present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of kenaf seed fiber fractions extracted from kenaf seed.

    RESULTS: Defatted kenaf seed powder yielded four DF fractions: alkali-soluble hemicellulose (146.4 g kg-1 ), calcium-bound pectin (10.3 g kg-1 ) and acid-soluble pectin (25.4 g kg-1 ) made up the soluble fibre fraction, whereas cellulose (202.2 g kg-1 ) comprised the insoluble fraction. All fractions were evaluated for their physicochemical properties. The DF fractions contained glucose, mannose, xylose and arabinose, and a small amount of uronic acid (1.2-2.7 g kg-1 ). The isolated pectin fractions had a low degree of esterification (14-30%). All the isolated DF fractions had high average molecular weights ranging from 0.3 to 4.3 × 106 g mol-1 . X-ray diffractogram analysis revealed that the fractions consisted mainly of an amorphous structure with a relative crystallinity ranging from 31.6% to 44.1%. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum of kenaf seed and its DF fractions showed typical absorption of polysaccharides, with the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl, acetyl and methyl groups. Scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that the raw material with the rigid structure resulted in soluble and insoluble DF fractions with more fragile and fibrous appearances, respectively. The soluble DF demonstrated greater flowability and compressibility than the insoluble fractions.

    CONCLUSION: These findings provide novel information on the DF fractions of kenaf seeds, which could be used as a potential new DF for the food industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

    Matched MeSH terms: Seeds/chemistry
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