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Edis Z, Bloukh SH. Thymol, a Monoterpenoid within Polymeric Iodophor Formulations and Their Antimicrobial Activities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4949. [PMID: 38732168 PMCID: PMC11084924 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an emanating threat to humanity's future. The effectiveness of commonly used antibiotics against microbial infections is declining at an alarming rate. As a result, morbidity and mortality rates are soaring, particularly among immunocompromised populations. Exploring alternative solutions, such as medicinal plants and iodine, shows promise in combating resistant pathogens. Such antimicrobials could effectively inhibit microbial proliferation through synergistic combinations. In our study, we prepared a formulation consisting of Aloe barbadensis Miller (AV), Thymol, iodine (I2), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Various analytical methods including SEM/EDS, UV-vis, Raman, FTIR, and XRD were carried out to verify the purity, composition, and morphology of AV-PVP-Thymol-I2. We evaluated the inhibitory effects of this formulation against 10 selected reference strains using impregnated sterile discs, surgical sutures, gauze bandages, surgical face masks, and KN95 masks. The antimicrobial properties of AV-PVP-Thymol-I2 were assessed through disc diffusion methods against 10 reference strains in comparison with two common antibiotics. The 25-month-old formulation exhibited slightly lower inhibitory zones, indicating changes in the sustained-iodine-release reservoir. Our findings confirm AV-PVP-Thymol-I2 as a potent antifungal and antibacterial agent against the reference strains, demonstrating particularly strong inhibitory action on surgical sutures, cotton bandages, and face masks. These results enable the potential use of the formulation AV-PVP-Thymol-I2 as a promising antimicrobial agent against wound infections and as a spray-on contact-killing agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Edis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Samir Haj Bloukh
- Center of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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Borah A, Hazarika P, Duarah R, Goswami R, Hazarika S. Biodegradable Electrospun Membranes for Sustainable Industrial Applications. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:11129-11147. [PMID: 38496999 PMCID: PMC10938411 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The escalating demand for sustainable industrial practices has driven the exploration of innovative materials, prominently exemplified by biodegradable electrospun membranes (BEMs). This review elucidates the pivotal role of these membranes across diverse industrial applications, addressing the imperative for sustainability. Furthermore, a comprehensive overview of biodegradable materials underscores their significance in electrospinning and their role in minimizing the environmental impact through biodegradability. The application of BEMs in various industrial sectors, including water treatment, food packaging, and biomedical applications, are extensively discussed. The environmental impact and sustainability analysis traverse the lifecycle of BEMs, evaluating their production to disposal and emphasizing reduced waste and resource conservation. This review demonstrates the research about BEMs toward an eco-conscious industrial landscape for a sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhil
Ranjan Borah
- Chemical
Engineering Group and Centre for Petroleum Research, CSIR-North East
Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat 785006, Assam, India
- Academy
of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Pallabi Hazarika
- Chemical
Engineering Group and Centre for Petroleum Research, CSIR-North East
Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat 785006, Assam, India
| | - Runjun Duarah
- Chemical
Engineering Group and Centre for Petroleum Research, CSIR-North East
Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat 785006, Assam, India
| | - Rajiv Goswami
- Chemical
Engineering Group and Centre for Petroleum Research, CSIR-North East
Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat 785006, Assam, India
- Academy
of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Swapnali Hazarika
- Chemical
Engineering Group and Centre for Petroleum Research, CSIR-North East
Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat 785006, Assam, India
- Academy
of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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3
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Edis Z, Bloukh SH, Sara HA, Bloukh IH. Green Synthesized Polymeric Iodophors with Thyme as Antimicrobial Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1133. [PMID: 38256211 PMCID: PMC10815993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern for the future of mankind. Common antibiotics fail in the treatment of microbial infections at an alarming rate. Morbidity and mortality rates increase, especially among immune-compromised populations. Medicinal plants and their essential oils, as well as iodine could be potential solutions against resistant pathogens. These natural antimicrobials abate microbial proliferation, especially in synergistic combinations. We performed a simple, one-pot synthesis to prepare our formulation with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-complexed iodine (I2), Thymus Vulgaris L. (Thyme), and Aloe Barbadensis Miller (AV). SEM/EDS, UV-vis, Raman, FTIR, and XRD analyses verified the purity, composition, and morphology of AV-PVP-Thyme-I2. We investigated the inhibitory action of the bio-formulation AV-PVP-Thyme-I2 against 10 selected reference pathogens on impregnated sterile discs, surgical sutures, cotton gauze bandages, surgical face masks, and KN95 masks. The antimicrobial properties of AV-PVP-Thyme-I2 were studied by disc diffusion methods and compared with those of the antibiotics gentamycin and nystatin. The results confirm AV-PVP-Thyme-I2 as a strong antifungal and antibacterial agent against the majority of the tested microorganisms with excellent results on cotton bandages and face masks. After storing AV-PVP-Thyme-I2 for 18 months, the inhibitory action was augmented compared to the fresh formulation. Consequently, we suggest AV-PVP-Thyme-I2 as an antimicrobial agent against wound infections and a spray-on contact killing agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Edis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates; (S.H.B.); (H.A.S.)
| | - Samir Haj Bloukh
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates; (S.H.B.); (H.A.S.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamed Abu Sara
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates; (S.H.B.); (H.A.S.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Science, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iman Haj Bloukh
- College of Dentistry, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
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Cho CJ, Chung PY, Tsai YW, Yang YT, Lin SY, Huang PS. Stretchable Sensors: Novel Human Motion Monitoring Wearables. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2375. [PMID: 37630960 PMCID: PMC10459719 DOI: 10.3390/nano13162375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
A human body monitoring system remains a significant focus, and to address the challenges in wearable sensors, a nanotechnology-enhanced strategy is proposed for designing stretchable metal-organic polymer nanocomposites. The nanocomposite comprises reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and in-situ generated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) within elastic electrospun polystyrene-butadiene-polystyrene (SBS) fibers. The resulting Sandwich Structure Piezoresistive Woven Nanofabric (SSPWN) is a tactile-sensitive wearable sensor with remarkable performance. It exhibits a rapid response time (less than three milliseconds) and high reproducible stability over 5500 cycles. The nanocomposite also demonstrates exceptional thermal stability due to effective connections between rGO and AgNPs, making it suitable for wearable electronic applications. Furthermore, the SSPWN is successfully applied to human motion monitoring, including various areas of the hand and RGB sensing shoes for foot motion monitoring. This nanotechnology-enhanced strategy shows promising potential for intelligent healthcare, health monitoring, gait detection, and analysis, offering exciting prospects for future wearable electronic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Jung Cho
- Institute of Biotechnology and Chemical Engineering, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 84001, Taiwan (Y.-T.Y.); (S.-Y.L.)
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Cimini A, Imperi E, Picano A, Rossi M. Electrospun nanofibers for medical face mask with protection capabilities against viruses: State of the art and perspective for industrial scale-up. APPLIED MATERIALS TODAY 2023; 32:101833. [PMID: 37152683 PMCID: PMC10151159 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmt.2023.101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Face masks have proven to be a useful protection from airborne viruses and bacteria, especially in the recent years pandemic outbreak when they effectively lowered the risk of infection from Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or Omicron variants, being recognized as one of the main protective measures adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The need for improving the filtering efficiency performance to prevent penetration of fine particulate matter (PM), which can be potential bacteria or virus carriers, has led the research into developing new methods and techniques for face mask fabrication. In this perspective, Electrospinning has shown to be the most efficient technique to get either synthetic or natural polymers-based fibers with size down to the nanoscale providing remarkable performance in terms of both particle filtration and breathability. The aim of this Review is to give further insight into the implementation of electrospun nanofibers for the realization of the next generation of face masks, with functionalized membranes via addiction of active material to the polymer solutions that can give optimal features about antibacterial, antiviral, self-sterilization, and electrical energy storage capabilities. Furthermore, the recent advances regarding the use of renewable materials and green solvent strategies to improve the sustainability of electrospun membranes and to fabricate eco-friendly filters are here discussed, especially in view of the large-scale nanofiber production where traditional membrane manufacturing may result in a high environmental and health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cimini
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences for Engineering, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome 00161, Italy
- LABOR s.r.l., Industrial Research Laboratory, Via Giacomo Peroni, 386, Rome, Italy
| | - E Imperi
- LABOR s.r.l., Industrial Research Laboratory, Via Giacomo Peroni, 386, Rome, Italy
| | - A Picano
- LABOR s.r.l., Industrial Research Laboratory, Via Giacomo Peroni, 386, Rome, Italy
| | - M Rossi
- Department of Basic and Applied Sciences for Engineering, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome 00161, Italy
- Research Center for Nanotechnology for Engineering of Sapienza (CNIS), University of Rome Sapienza, Rome 00185, Italy
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6
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Serafim A, Voicu SI. Scaffolds and Surfaces with Biomedical Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15092126. [PMID: 37177270 PMCID: PMC10180603 DOI: 10.3390/polym15092126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The engineering of scaffolds and surfaces with enhanced properties for biomedical applications represents an ever-expanding field of research that is continuously gaining momentum [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrada Serafim
- Advanced Polymers Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Gheorghe Polizu Str. 1-7, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Stefan Ioan Voicu
- Advanced Polymers Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Gheorghe Polizu Str. 1-7, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
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7
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Lou Z, Wang L, Yu K, Wei Q, Hussain T, Xia X, Zhou H. Electrospun PVB/AVE NMs as mask filter layer for win-win effects of filtration and antibacterial activity. J Memb Sci 2023; 672:121473. [PMID: 36785656 PMCID: PMC9908571 DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2023.121473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious social and public health problems. In the field of personal protection, the facial masks can prevent infectious respiratory diseases, safeguard human health, and promote public safety. Herein, we focused on preparing a core filter layer for masks using electrospun polyvinyl butyral/apocynum venetum extract nanofibrous membranes (PVB/AVE NMs), with durable interception efficiency and antibacterial properties. In the spinning solution, AVE acted as a salt to improve electrical conductivity, and achieve long-lasting interception efficiency with adjustable pore size. It also played the role of an antibacterial agent in PVB/AVE NMs to achieve win-win effects. The hydrophobicity of PVB-AVE-6% was 120.9° whereas its filterability reached 98.3% when the pressure drop resistance was 142 Pa. PVB-AVE-6% exhibited intriguing properties with great antibacterial rates of 99.38% and 98.96% against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. After a prolonged usability test of 8 h, the filtration efficiency of the PVB/AVE masks remained stable at over 97.7%. Furthermore, the antibacterial rates of the PVB/AVE masks on S. aureus and E. coli were 96.87% and 96.20% respectively, after using for 2 d. These results indicate that PVB/AVE NMs improve the protective performance of ordinary disposable masks, which has certain application in air filtration.
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Key Words
- AVE, apocynum venetum extract
- Air filtration
- Antibacterial properties
- Apocynum venetum extract
- CNF, cellulose nanofibres
- PA, polyamide
- PAN, polyacrylonitrile
- PLA, poly(lactic acid)
- PVB, polyvinyl butyral
- PVB/AVE NMs, polyvinyl butyral/apocynum venetum extract nanofibrous membranes
- PVDF, polyvinylidene fluoride
- Protective masks
- QF, quality factor
- WCA, water contact angle
- Win-win effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuyushuang Lou
- College of Textile and Clothing, Xinjiang University, Xinjiang, Urumchi, 830046, China
| | - Ling Wang
- College of Textile and Clothing, Xinjiang University, Xinjiang, Urumchi, 830046, China
| | - Kefei Yu
- College of Textile and Clothing, Xinjiang University, Xinjiang, Urumchi, 830046, China
| | - Qufu Wei
- Key Laboratory of Eco-Textiles, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China
| | - Tanveer Hussain
- Textile Processing Department, Faculty of Engineering & Technology, National Textile University, Sheikhupura Road, Faisalabad, 37610, Pakistan
| | - Xin Xia
- College of Textile and Clothing, Xinjiang University, Xinjiang, Urumchi, 830046, China,Corresponding author
| | - Huimin Zhou
- College of Textile and Clothing, Xinjiang University, Xinjiang, Urumchi, 830046, China,Corresponding author
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Liu S, Chen Z, Zhang H, Li Y, Maierhaba T, An J, Zhou Z, Deng L. Comparison of eugenol and dihydromyricetin loaded nanofibers by electro-blowing spinning for active packaging. FOOD BIOSCI 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.102294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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9
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In situ preparation of silver nanoparticle embedded composite nanofibrous membrane: a multi-layered biocidal air filter. Polym Bull (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00289-022-04561-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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10
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Chen P, Yang Z, Mai Z, Huang Z, Bian Y, Wu S, Dong X, Fu X, Ko F, Zhang S, Zheng W, Zhang S, Zhou W. Electrospun nanofibrous membrane with antibacterial and antiviral properties decorated with Myoporum bontioides extract and silver-doped carbon nitride nanoparticles for medical masks application. Sep Purif Technol 2022; 298:121565. [PMID: 35765307 PMCID: PMC9225951 DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.121565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Public health safety issues have been plaguing the world since the pandemic outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). However, most personal protective equipments (PPE) do not have antibacterial and anti- toxicity effects. In this work, we designed and prepared a reusable, antibacterial and anti-toxicity Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) based nanofibrous membrane cooperated with Ag/g-C3N4 (Ag-CN), Myoporum.bontioides (M. bontioides) plant extracts and Ag nanoparticles (NPs) by an electrospinning-process. The SEM and TEM characterization revealed the formation of raised, creased or wrinkled areas on the fiber surface caused by the Ag nanoparticles, the rough surface prevented the aerosol particles on the fiber surface from sliding and stagnating, thus providing excellent filtration performance. The PAN/M. bontioides/Ag-CN/Ag nanofibrous membrane could be employed as a photocatalytic bactericidal material, which not only degraded 96.37% of methylene blue within 150 min, but also exhibited the superior bactericidal effect of 98.65 ± 1.49% and 97.8 ± 1.27% against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively, under 3 hs of light exposure. After 3 cycles of sterilization experiments, the PAN/M. bontioides/Ag-CN/Ag nanofibrous membrane maintained an efficient sterilization effect. Molecular docking revealed that the compounds in M. bontioides extracts interacted with neo-coronavirus targets mainly on Mpro and RdRp proteins, and these compounds had the strongest docking energy with Mpro protein, the shortest docking radius, and more binding sites for key amino acids around the viral protein targets, which influenced the replication and transcription process of neo-coronavirus. The PAN/M.bontioides/Ag-CN/Ag nanofibrous membrane also performed significant inhibition of influenza A virus H3N2. The novel nanofiber membrane is expected to be applied to medical masks, which will improve human isolation and protection against viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinhong Chen
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhuoxian Mai
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ziyun Huang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yongshuang Bian
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Shangjing Wu
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xianming Dong
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xianjun Fu
- Marine Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Center, Qingdao Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao 266114, China
| | - Frank Ko
- Department of Materials Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Shiying Zhang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Applied Environmental Photocatalysis, Changsha University, Changsha 410022, China
| | - Wenxu Zheng
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Shengsen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Wuyi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Bio-based Materials and Energy Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Research Center of Biomass 3D Printing Materials, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Thymol Disrupts Cell Homeostasis and Inhibits the Growth of Staphylococcus aureus. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2022; 2022:8743096. [PMID: 36034206 PMCID: PMC9392601 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8743096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a typical kind of symbiotic bacteria, which can cause human pneumonia, food poisoning, and other health problems. Nowadays, the corresponding prevention and treatment have been a hot issue of general concern in related research areas. However, the mechanism of action against S. aureus is not well understood. In order to tackle such problem, we used broth microdilution to discuss the antibacterial effect of 5-methyl-2-isopropylphenol and determine inhibitory concentration. In addition, membrane potential and lipid peroxidation levels were also measured under experimental conditions. The experimental results suggested that 300 μg/mL thymol might cause cell membrane damage and decrease of NADPH concentration and increase of NADP+ and lipid peroxidation level. In such condition, thymol has the potential to result in membrane rupture and disruption of cellular homeostasis. Furthermore, we also found that NOX2 is involved in maintaining the balance of NADPH/NADP+ in cells. Finally, our work confirms that NOX2 is a potential downstream target for thymol in the cell. Such target can provide specific guidance and recommendations for its application in antifungal activity. Meanwhile, our study also provides a new inspiration for the molecular mechanism of thymol's bacteriostatic action.
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Characterization of Epoxy-Based Rapid Mold with Profiled Conformal Cooling Channel. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14153017. [PMID: 35893981 PMCID: PMC9331836 DOI: 10.3390/polym14153017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on the experience of the foundry industry, reducing the demolding time is the key for mass production of wax patterns with sophisticated geometries. Integration of numerical simulation and rapid tooling technology for decreasing the time to market is essential in advanced manufacturing technology. However, characterization of epoxy-based rapid molds with a profiled conformal cooling channel (PCCC) using computer-aided engineering simulation of the epoxy-based rapid mold with PCCC was not found in the literature. In this study, epoxy-based rapid molds with PCCC were characterized numerically and experimentally. The cooling performance of wax injection molds with two different kinds of cross-sections of the cooling channel was investigated. Four pairs of injection molds with PCCC were implemented using four different kinds of material formulations. It was found that the cooling performance of the PCCC was better than a circular conformal cooling channel (CCCC) since the PCCC maintained a more uniform and steady cooling performance of injection-molded product than CCCC. Epoxy resin added with 41 vol.% Cu powder seems to be a cost-effective empirical material formulation in terms of cooling time and material costs. This empirical material formulation provided an injection mold with low material cost and good cooling performance simultaneously compared to an injection mold fabricated with commercial material. The cooling performance could reach 88% of that of the injection mold fabricated with commercial material. The material cost of making the injection mold was only about 60% of that of the injection mold fabricated with commercial material. The coolant flow rate had no significant effect on the cooling time, whereas the cooling time of the wax pattern was affected by coolant temperature significantly.
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Thermoplastic Starch with Poly(butylene adipate- co-terephthalate) Blends Foamed by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14101952. [PMID: 35631835 PMCID: PMC9145724 DOI: 10.3390/polym14101952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Starch-based biodegradable foams with a high starch content are developed using industrial starch as the base material and supercritical CO2 as blowing or foaming agents. The superior cushioning properties of these foams can lead to competitiveness in the market. Despite this, a weak melting strength property of starch is not sufficient to hold the foaming agents within it. Due to the rapid diffusion of foaming gas into the environment, it is difficult for starch to maintain pore structure in starch foams. Therefore, producing starch foam by using supercritical CO2 foaming gas faces severe challenges. To overcome this, we have synthesized thermoplastic starch (TPS) by dispersing starch into water or glycerin. Consecutively, the TPS surface was modified by compatibilizer silane A (SA) to improve the dispersion with poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) to become (TPS with SA)/PBAT composite foam. Furthermore, the foam-forming process was optimized by varying the ratios of TPS and PBAT under different forming temperatures of 85 °C to 105 °C, and two different pressures, 17 Mpa and 23 Mpa were studied in detail. The obtained results indicate that the SA surface modification on TPS can influence the great compatibility with PBAT blended foams (foam density: 0.16 g/cm3); whereas unmodified TPS and PBAT (foam density: 0.349 g/cm3) exhibit high foam density, rigid foam structure, and poor tensile properties. In addition, we have found that the 80% TPS/20% PBAT foam can be achieved with good flexible properties. Because of this flexibility, lightweight and environment-friendly nature, we have the opportunity to resolve the strong demands from the packing market.
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Antimicrobial Biomaterial on Sutures, Bandages and Face Masks with Potential for Infection Control. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14101932. [PMID: 35631817 PMCID: PMC9143446 DOI: 10.3390/polym14101932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a challenge for the survival of the human race. The steady rise of resistant microorganisms against the common antimicrobials results in increased morbidity and mortality rates. Iodine and a plethora of plant secondary metabolites inhibit microbial proliferation. Antiseptic iodophors and many phytochemicals are unaffected by AMR. Surgical site and wound infections can be prevented or treated by utilizing such compounds on sutures and bandages. Coating surgical face masks with these antimicrobials can reduce microbial infections and attenuate their burden on the environment by re-use. The facile combination of Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller (AV), Trans-cinnamic acid (TCA) and Iodine (I2) encapsulated in a polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) matrix seems a promising alternative to common antimicrobials. The AV-PVP-TCA-I2 formulation was impregnated into sterile discs, medical gauze bandages, surgical sutures and face masks. Morphology, purity and composition were confirmed by several analytical methods. Antimicrobial activity of AV-PVP-TCA-I2 was investigated by disc diffusion methods against ten microbial strains in comparison to gentamycin and nystatin. AV-PVP-TCA-I2 showed excellent antifungal and strong to intermediate antibacterial activities against most of the selected pathogens, especially in bandages and face masks. The title compound has potential use for prevention or treatment of surgical site and wound infections. Coating disposable face masks with AV-PVP-TCA-I2 may be a sustainable solution for their re-use and waste management.
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Tuñón-Molina A, Takayama K, Redwan EM, Uversky VN, Andrés J, Serrano-Aroca Á. Protective Face Masks: Current Status and Future Trends. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:56725-56751. [PMID: 34797624 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Management of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has relied in part on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Face masks, as a representative example of PPE, have made a particularly significant contribution. However, most commonly used face masks are made of materials lacking inactivation properties against either SARS-CoV-2 or multidrug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals wearing masks can still infect others due to viable microbial loads escaping from the masks. Moreover, microbial contact transmission can occur by touching the mask, and the discarded masks are an increasing source of contaminated biological waste and a serious environmental threat. For this reason, during the current pandemic, many researchers have worked to develop face masks made of advanced materials with intrinsic antimicrobial, self-cleaning, reusable, and/or biodegradable properties, thereby providing extra protection against pathogens in a sustainable manner. To overview this segment of the remarkable efforts against COVID-19, this review describes the different types of commercialized face masks, their main fabrication methods and treatments, and the progress achieved in face mask development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Tuñón-Molina
- Biomaterials and Bioengineering Lab, Centro de Investigación Traslacional San Alberto Magno, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, c/Guillem de Castro 94, 46001 Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Kazuo Takayama
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Elrashdy M Redwan
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | - Juan Andrés
- Department of Physical and Analytical Chemistry, University Jaume I (UJI), 12071 Castellon, Spain
| | - Ángel Serrano-Aroca
- Biomaterials and Bioengineering Lab, Centro de Investigación Traslacional San Alberto Magno, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, c/Guillem de Castro 94, 46001 Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Veeramuthu L, Venkatesan M, Benas JS, Cho CJ, Lee CC, Lieu FK, Lin JH, Lee RH, Kuo CC. Recent Progress in Conducting Polymer Composite/Nanofiber-Based Strain and Pressure Sensors. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:4281. [PMID: 34960831 PMCID: PMC8705576 DOI: 10.3390/polym13244281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The Conducting of polymers belongs to the class of polymers exhibiting excellence in electrical performances because of their intrinsic delocalized π- electrons and their tunability ranges from semi-conductive to metallic conductive regime. Conducting polymers and their composites serve greater functionality in the application of strain and pressure sensors, especially in yielding a better figure of merits, such as improved sensitivity, sensing range, durability, and mechanical robustness. The electrospinning process allows the formation of micro to nano-dimensional fibers with solution-processing attributes and offers an exciting aspect ratio by forming ultra-long fibrous structures. This review comprehensively covers the fundamentals of conducting polymers, sensor fabrication, working modes, and recent trends in achieving the sensitivity, wide-sensing range, reduced hysteresis, and durability of thin film, porous, and nanofibrous sensors. Furthermore, nanofiber and textile-based sensory device importance and its growth towards futuristic wearable electronics in a technological era was systematically reviewed to overcome the existing challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loganathan Veeramuthu
- Institute of Organic and Polymeric Materials, Research and Development Center of Smart Textile Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan; (L.V.); (M.V.); (J.-S.B.)
| | - Manikandan Venkatesan
- Institute of Organic and Polymeric Materials, Research and Development Center of Smart Textile Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan; (L.V.); (M.V.); (J.-S.B.)
| | - Jean-Sebastien Benas
- Institute of Organic and Polymeric Materials, Research and Development Center of Smart Textile Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan; (L.V.); (M.V.); (J.-S.B.)
| | - Chia-Jung Cho
- Institute of Organic and Polymeric Materials, Research and Development Center of Smart Textile Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan; (L.V.); (M.V.); (J.-S.B.)
| | - Chia-Chin Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 11220, Taiwan;
| | - Fu-Kong Lieu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 11220, Taiwan;
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Ja-Hon Lin
- Institute of Electro-Optical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan;
| | - Rong-Ho Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan;
| | - Chi-Ching Kuo
- Institute of Organic and Polymeric Materials, Research and Development Center of Smart Textile Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan; (L.V.); (M.V.); (J.-S.B.)
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17
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El-Atab N, Mishra RB, Hussain MM. Toward nanotechnology-enabled face masks against SARS-CoV-2 and pandemic respiratory diseases. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 33:062006. [PMID: 34727530 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac3578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Wearing a face mask has become a necessity following the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease, where its effectiveness in containing the pandemic has been confirmed. Nevertheless, the pandemic has revealed major deficiencies in the ability to manufacture and ramp up worldwide production of efficient surgical-grade face masks. As a result, many researchers have focused their efforts on the development of low cost, smart and effective face covers. In this article, following a short introduction concerning face mask requirements, the different nanotechnology-enabled techniques for achieving better protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus are reviewed, including the development of nanoporous and nanofibrous membranes in addition to triboelectric nanogenerators based masks, which can filter the virus using various mechanisms such as straining, electrostatic attraction and electrocution. The development of nanomaterials-based mask coatings to achieve virus repellent and sterilizing capabilities, including antiviral, hydrophobic and photothermal features are also discussed. Finally, the usability of nanotechnology-enabled face masks is discussed and compared with that of current commercial-grade N95 masks. To conclude, we highlight the challenges associated with the quick transfer of nanomaterials-enabled face masks and provide an overall outlook of the importance of nanotechnology in counteracting the COVID-19 and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazek El-Atab
- Smart, Advanced Memory devices and Applications (SAMA) Lab, Electrical & Computer Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rishabh B Mishra
- Smart, Advanced Memory devices and Applications (SAMA) Lab, Electrical & Computer Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- MMH Labs, Electrical & Computer Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad M Hussain
- MMH Labs, Electrical & Computer Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS), University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1170, United States of America
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