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After traumatic brain injury, the brain extracellular matrix undergoes structural rearrangement due to changes in matrix composition, activation of proteases, and deposition of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans by reactive astrocytes to produce the glial scar. These changes lead to a softening of the tissue, where the stiffness of the contusion core and peripheral pericontusional regions becomes softer than that of healthy tissue. Pioneering mechanotransduction studies have shown that soft substrates upregulate intermediate filament proteins in reactive astrocytes; however, many other aspects of astrocyte biology remain unclear. Here, we developed a platform for the culture of cortical astrocytes using polyacrylamide (PA) gels of varying stiffness (measured in Pascal; Pa) to mimic injury-related regions in order to investigate the effects of tissue stiffness on astrocyte reactivity and morphology. Our results show that substrate stiffness influences astrocyte phenotype; soft 300 Pa substrates led to increased GFAP immunoreactivity, proliferation, and complexity of processes. Intermediate 800 Pa substrates increased Aggrecan+, Brevican+, and Neurocan+ astrocytes. The stiffest 1 kPa substrates led to astrocytes with basal morphologies, similar to a physiological state. These results advance our understanding of astrocyte mechanotransduction processes and provide evidence of how substrates with engineered stiffness can mimic the injury microenvironment.

Nanocellulose has emerged as a widely utilized building block in nanostructured materials due to its availability, sustainability, large surface area, and high stiffness and aspect ratio. The wet or dry elastoplastic properties of these materials are determined by the fibrils' stiffness, chemical properties, hemicellulose content, and the number of fibril contacts. However, the specific contributions and relative importance of each factor remain unclear. Therefore, this work was devoted to systematically comparing the material properties of gels, aerogels, and wet and dry sheets prepared from CNFs with different aspect ratios, chemical functionality, and hemicellulose content. The fibrils were prepared by chemical and mechanical processing of different pulps. By preserving the native structure as much as possible, higher aspect ratio fibrils can be obtained, which allows for the development of more mechanically robust materials. The results demonstrate that higher aspect ratios lead to more interconnected networks at a lower solids concentration, resulting in a more evenly distributed stress and longer-range stress transfer, yielding stiffer and more ductile materials. The most important finding was that the aspect ratio influences the network formation, resulting in different network topologies. The results were also compared to earlier published data and integrated into a theoretical beam-bending model for a complete elastoplastic description of the network properties, including the influence of fibril aspect ratio and chemical functionality. This information improves our understanding and description of nanofibril networks for which general models have been missing. It can be used to optimize nanofibril preparation and, hence, the resulting eco-friendly materials.

Producción Científica, Aerogels are unique solid-state materials composed of interconnected 3D solid networks and a large number of air-filled pores. This structure leads to extended structural characteristics as well as physicochemical properties of the nanoscale building blocks to macroscale, and integrated typical features of aerogels, such as high porosity, large surface area, and low density, with specific properties of the various constituents. Due to their combination of excellent properties, aerogels attract much interest in various applications, ranging from medicine to construction. In recent decades, their potential was exploited in many aerogels’ materials, either organic, inorganic or hybrid. Considerable research efforts in recent years have been devoted to the development of aerogel-based biosensors and encouraging accomplishments have been achieved. In this work, recent (2018–2023) and ground-breaking advances in the preparation, classification, and physicochemical properties of aerogels and their sensing applications are presented. Different types of biosensors in which aerogels play a fundamental role are being explored and are collected in this manuscript. Moreover, the current challenges and some perspectives for the development of high-performance aerogel-based biosensors are summarized., Fundación Portuguesa para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FCT) - (grant UIDB/04029/2020), Fundación Portuguesa para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FCT) - (grant LA/P/0112/2020), Fundación Portuguesa para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FCT) - (grant SFRH/BD/150790/2020), Junta de Castilla y León, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación y Unión Europea NextGenerationEU/PRTR,Unión Europea (UE)- Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) - (grant MA2TEC)

Tardigrades are microscopic animals that survive desiccation by inducing biostasis. To survive drying tardigrades rely on intrinsically disordered CAHS proteins, which also function to prevent perturbations induced by drying in vitro and in heterologous systems. CAHS proteins have been shown to form gels both in vitro and in vivo, which has been speculated to be linked to their protective capacity. However, the sequence features and mechanisms underlying gel formation and the necessity of gelation for protection have not been demonstrated. Here we report a mechanism of fibrillization and gelation for CAHS D similar to that of intermediate filament assembly. We show that in vitro, gelation restricts molecular motion, immobilizing and protecting labile material from the harmful effects of drying. In vivo, we observe that CAHS D forms fibrillar networks during osmotic stress. Fibrillar networking of CAHS D improves survival of osmotically shocked cells. We observe two emergent properties associated with fibrillization; (i) prevention of cell volume change and (ii) reduction of metabolic activity during osmotic shock. We find that there is no significant correlation between maintenance of cell volume and survival, while there is a significant correlation between reduced metabolism and survival. Importantly, CAHS Ds fibrillar network formation is reversible and metabolic rates return to control levels after CAHS fibers are resolved. This work provides insights into how tardigrades induce reversible biostasis through the self-assembly of labile CAHS gels.

Design, produce and assess the viability of a novel nanotechnological antibacterial thermo-sensible intracanal medicament This involves encapsulating calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2 ) within polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) and dispersing them in a thermosensitive gel (Ca(OH)2 -NPs-gel). In addition, perform in vitro and ex vivo assessments to evaluate tissue irritation and penetration capacity into dentinal tubules in comparison to free Ca(OH)2 .

Seaweeds, rich in high-value polysaccharides with thickening/gelling properties (e.g., agar, carrageenan, and alginate), are extensively used in the food industry for texture customization and enhancement. However, conventional extraction methods for these hydrocolloids often involve potentially hazardous chemicals and long extraction times. In this study, three red seaweed species (Chondrus crispus, Gelidium Corneum, and Gracilaria gracilis) commercialized as food ingredients by local companies were chosen for their native gelling biopolymers, which were extracted using water-based methodologies (i.e., (1) hydration at room temperature; (2) stirring at 90 °C; and (3) centrifugation at 40 °C) for production of sustainable food gels. The potential use of these extracts as bioinks was assessed employing an extrusion-based 3D printer. The present work aimed to study the gelation process, taken place during printing, and assess the effectiveness of the selected green extraction method in producing gels. To improve the definition of the printed gel, two critical printing parameters were investigated: the addition of locust bean gum (LBG) at different concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5%) and printing temperature (30, 40, 60, and 80 °C). Rheological results from a controlled-stress rheometer indicated that gels derived from G. corneum and G. gracilis exhibited a lower gel strength (lower G′ and G″) and excessive material spreading during deposition (lower viscosity) than C. crispus. Thus, G′ was around 5 and 70 times higher for C. crispus gels than for G. corneum and G. gracilis, respectively. When increasing LBG concentration (0.5 to 2.5% w/w) and lowering the printing temperature (80 to 30 °C), an enhanced gel matrix definition for G. corneum and G. gracilis gels was found. In contrast, gels from C. crispus demonstrated greater stability and were less influenced by these parameters, showcasing the potential of the seaweed to develop sustainable clean label food g

Polymer gels, made up of polymer and solvent, have both the cohesive properties of solids and the transport properties of liquids. This duality allows modulating the activity of the gels in a controlled way and elucidating their structural aspects. Gels cover a wide spectrum of different polymers (synthetic and natural), solvents (water is the most common: hydrogels), sizes (macro-, micro- and nanogels) and specific properties, very attractive for their applications. The study of the viscoelastic properties and the application of different models, allows knowing its structural organization. Gels have demonstrated their importance as efficient storage/incorporation systems for solvents and other components, drug release and magnetic hyperthermia, among others. This work briefly summarizes some concepts and focuses on the rheological properties, where the most relevant models and theories applied to both gels and polymeric microgels have been collected, Los geles poliméricos están constituidos por polímero y disolvente y poseen tanto las propiedades cohesivas de los sólidos como las propiedades de transporte de los líquidos. Esta dualidad permite modular la actividad de los geles de forma controlada y elucidar aspectos estructurales de los mismos. Los geles abarcan un gran espectro de diferentes polímeros (sintéticos y de origen natural), disolventes (el agua es el más común: hidrogeles), tamaños (macro-, micro- y nanogeles) y propiedades específicas, muy atractivas de cara a sus aplicaciones. El estudio de las propiedades viscoelásticas y la aplicación de distintos modelos permite conocer su organización estructural. Los geles han demostrado su utilidad como sistemas eficaces de almacenaje/incorporación de disolventes y otros componentes, liberación de fármacos y en hipertermia magnética, entre otros. Este trabajo resume muy brevemente algunos conceptos y se centra en las propiedades reológicas donde se han recogido los modelos y teorías más relevantes aplicadas tanto a geles como a microgeles poliméricos

DNA damage plays a pivotal role in carcinogenesis and other diseases. The comet assay has been used for more than three decades to measure DNA damages. The 1–2 gels/slide format is the most used version of the assay. In 2010, a high throughput 96 macrowell format with a spatially encoded array of microwells patterned in agarose was developed, called the CometChip. The commercial version (CometChip®) has been used for the in vitro standard version of the comet assay (following the manufacturer’s protocol), although it has not been compared directly with the 2 gels/slide format. The aim of this work is to developed new protocols to allow use of DNA repair enzymes as well as the analysis of in vivo frozen tissue samples in the CometChip®, to increase the throughput, and to compare its performance with the classic 2 gels/slide format. We adapted the manufacturer’s protocol to allow the use of snap frozen tissue samples, using male Wistar rats orally dosed with methyl methanesulfonate (MMS, 200 mg/kg b.w.), and to detect altered nucleobases using DNA repair enzymes, with TK6 cells treated with potassium bromate (KBrO3, 0–4 mM, 3 h) and formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg) as the enzyme. Regarding the standard version of the comet, we performed thee comparison of the 2 gel/slide and CometChip® format (using the the manufacturer’s protocol), using TK6 cells with MMS (100–800 µM, 1 h) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 7.7–122.5 µM, 5 min) as testing compounds. In all cases the CometChip® was performed along with the 2 gels/slide format. Results obtained were comparable and the CometChip® is a good alternative to the 2 gels/slide format when a higher throughput is required., DNA damage plays a pivotal role in carcinogenesis and other diseases. The comet assay has been used for more than three decades to measure DNA damages. The 1-2 gels/slide format is the most used version of the assay. In 2010, a high throughput 96 macrowell format with a spatially encoded array of microwells patterned in agarose was developed, called the CometChip. The commercial version (CometChip®) has been used for the in vitro standard version of the comet assay (following the manufacturer's protocol), although it has not been compared directly with the 2 gels/slide format. The aim of this work is to developed new protocols to allow use of DNA repair enzymes as well as the analysis of in vivo frozen tissue samples in the CometChip®, to increase the throughput, and to compare its performance with the classic 2 gels/slide format. We adapted the manufacturer's protocol to allow the use of snap frozen tissue samples, using male Wistar rats orally dosed with methyl methanesulfonate (MMS, 200 mg/kg b.w.), and to detect altered nucleobases using DNA repair enzymes, with TK6 cells treated with potassium bromate (KBrO3, 0-4 mM, 3 h) and formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg) as the enzyme. Regarding the standard version of the comet, we performed thee comparison of the 2 gel/slide and CometChip® format (using the the manufacturer's protocol), using TK6 cells with MMS (100-800 µM, 1 h) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 7.7-122.5 µM, 5 min) as testing compounds. In all cases the CometChip® was performed along with the 2 gels/slide format. Results obtained were comparable and the CometChip® is a good alternative to the 2 gels/slide format when a higher throughput is required.

Colloids are used to form processable soft solids that are ubiquitous in everyday materials like foods, industrial building materials, coatings and biomedical products. Despite their prevalence, there are limited experimental methods to probe the underlying colloidal scale interactions in these materials. These underlying interactions give rise to unique structure and properties. By modulating the interaction potential between colloids both equilibrium phase transitions can be triggered and non-equilibrium `arrested states' such as gels and glasses can be formed. However, there is a lack of experimental methods available for faithfully mathematically representing these interactions which prevents a better understanding of the phase behavior and processing of these materials. To address this problem, we use a model experimental colloidal system to develop a new approach for determining a unique interaction potential that can be used to replicate the systems equilibrium and non-equilibrium phase behavior in particle simulations. The new approach uses a non-equilibrium comparison test between experiments and simulation to down-select candidate potentials (extracted from dilute experimental structural measurements) that differ in shape but share the same equilibrium structure. We demonstrate that the conditions for non-equilibrium arrest by colloidal gelation are sensitive to both the shape of the interaction potential and the thermal quench rate. We exploit this sensitivity to select the potential that best matches the non-equilibrium behavior between simulation and experiments.With a better understanding of the underlying colloidal scale interactions in our experimental system, we then focus on developing new methods to precisely establish locations of non-equilibrium states to generate a comprehensive phase diagram and to elucidate the underlying combination of mechanisms that lead to the emergence of gelation. Our method employs systematically varied quenches of the

One-dimensional (1D) self-assemblies of nanocrystals are of interest because of their vectorial and polymer-like dynamic properties. Herein, we report a simple method to prepare elongated assemblies of semiconductor nanorods (NRs) through end-to-end self-assembly. Short-chained water-soluble thiols were employed as surface ligands for CdSe NRs having a wurtzite crystal structure. The site-specific capping of NRs with these ligands rendered the surface of the NRs amphiphilic. The amphiphilic CdSe NRs self-assembled to form elongated wires by end-to-end attachment driven by the hydrophobic effect operating between uncapped NR ends. The end-to-end assembly technique was further applied to CdS NRs and CdSe tetrapods (TPs) with a wurtzite structure.

In this study, we investigate the bifurcation and deformation during the evolution of periodic patterns on a gel film bonded to a soft substrate. 3D finite element analysis is performed using an inhomogeneous field theory for polymeric gels. Step-by-step eigenvalue buckling analysis is conducted to explore not only the first bifurcation, but also sequential bifurcations on bifurcated paths. When the hexagonal dimple mode occurs as the first bifurcation, the second bifurcation consists of rectangular checkerboard modes in three symmetric directions. The resulting deformation patterns are in good agreement with experiments and, surprisingly, are analogous to the in-plane buckling behavior of hexagonal honeycombs. Uniaxial, biaxial, and equibiaxial (flower-like) patterns are produced by the periodic arrangements of distorted dimples. The third and fourth bifurcations cause the coalescence of the selected dimples. This reveals the occurrence of the rectangular checkerboard modes at the second bifurcation to be the missing link in the pattern evolution from hexagonal dimples to herringbone and labyrinth patterns.

Dagens livsmedelsindustri genomgår just nu ett skifte mot mer hållbara lösningar. Ett område som kräver större fokus är utveckling av växtbaserade substitut för kött- och mjölkprodukter. Den största utmaningen här är att utveckla produkter med näringsinnehåll, textur och smak som efterliknar de animaliska produkterna. Baljväxter, såsom ärtor och åkerbönor, har hög potential att användas i dessa typer av produkter, då de ofta har högre proteininnehåll jämfört med andra växter. Funktionaliteten hos dessa växtproteiner beror av fysikaliska egenskaper, såsom gelnings- och emulgeringsförmåga, vilka kan optimeras med justering av pH och tillsats av salt. Denna studie har undersökt egenskaper hos svenskproducerade proteinkoncentrat från grönoch gulärta samt åkerböna. Fysikaliska egenskaper såsom proteinernas smälttemperatur, löslighet och gelningsförmåga, och hur de beror av pH och olika salter har undersökts. Koncentratet från åkerbönan var det prov med högst proteinhalt, och indikerade vid initiala tester att ha framstående egenskaper vid emulgering jämfört med proteinkoncentrat från guloch grönärta. Resultaten visar att både pH och salt har påverkan på både löslighet, förmåga att binda in vatten och geltextur. Salter visade sig ha effekt på gelstruktur och dess förmåga att binda in vatten. Störst effekt gav tri-natriumfosfat, som genererade geler med lenare struktur och högre förmåga att bibehålla vatten jämfört med gel utan något saltinnehåll. Alla tre proteinkoncentrat (1 w/w%) hade förmåga att stabilisera 10 % vatten-i-oljeemulsioner med rapsolja. Vidare visade både lågt pH (5.5) och ultraljud vara faktorer som minskade droppstorlek, och därmed gräddsättning, i olja-vattenemulsioner med ärt- och åkerbönaprotein som emulgeringsmedel., Current trends in the food industry follow the ongoing shift towards more sustainable solutions. One area in need of a larger focus is the development of plant-based analogues to meat and dairy products. The major challenge for the industry is to develop products that constitute the same properties as animal derived products, both with regard to the nutritional value, as well as texture and taste. Pulse crops, such as peas and faba beans, are attractive starting materials due to their higher protein content compared to other legumes. The functionality of the proteins is determined by their physio-chemical properties, such as gelling and emulsifying properties, and can be influenced by adjusting pH or addition of salt. This project has investigated the properties of protein concentrates from green pea, yellow pea and faba bean produced in Sweden. Physio-chemical properties such as melting temperature, solubility, gelling properties, and their dependency of pH and chelating salts have been investigated. Results indicate that both pH and some types of salts have an impact on protein characteristics, such as enhancing solubility, gel structure and increasing water holding capacity of protein gels. The largest effect was found using tri-sodium phosphate, which generated protein gels with smoother texture and higher water holding capacity compared gel without salt addition. All three concentrates at 1 w/w% had an ability to stabilise a 10 % rapeseed oil-in-water emulsion, where slightly acidic conditions (pH 5.5) rather than neutral, were found to be favourable for stability. Moreover, high intensity ultrasound reduced droplet size, and thus creaming rate of these emulsions.

Rice straw cellulose nanofibrils from the optimal 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl oxidation/blending process carrying 1.17 mmol/g surface carboxyls were protonated to varying charged (COO-Na+) and uncharged (COOH) surfaces. Reducing the electrostatic repulsion of surface charges by protonation with hydrochloric acid from 11 to 45 and 100% surface carboxylic acid most prominently reduced the aerogel densities from 8.0 to 6.6 and 5.2 mg/cm3 while increasing the mostly open cell pore volumes from 125 to 152 and 196 mL/g. Irrespective of charge levels, all aerogels were amphiphilic, super-absorptive, stable at pH 2 for up to 30 days, and resilient for up to 10 repetitive squeezing-absorption cycles. While these aerogels exhibited density-dependent dry [11.3 to 1.5 kPa/(mg/cm3)] and reduced wet [3.3 to 1.4 kPa/(mg/cm3)] moduli, the absorption of organic liquids stiffened the saturated aerogels. These data support protonation as a critical yet simple approach toward precise control of aerogels' dry and wet properties.

Plums (Prunus domestica); red currants (Ribes rubrum); black currants (Ribes nigrum); gooseberries (Ribes uva-crispa); sour cherries (Prunus cerasus); pumpkins (Cuccurbita spp.) are sources for valuable fruit- and berry-juice and cider production. This process leaves a large number of by-products (BP) in the form of pomace, which accounts for up to 80% of the raw material. This by-product represents a rich source of biologically active compounds, especially in the form of different pectic polysaccharides. The pectin extracted from commercial fruits such as citric fruits and apples has high medicinal properties, can be used as edible films and coatings, and is also useful in texture improvement and gel production in the food industry. However, many under-utilized fruits have received little attention regarding the extraction and characterization of their high/value pectin from their by-products. Moreover, the commercial extraction process involving strong acids and high temperature to obtain high-purity pectin leads to the loss of many bioactive components, and these lost components are often compensated for by the addition of synthetic antioxidants and colorants. The aim of the research is to extract pectin from juice production by-products with hot-water extraction using weak organic (0.1 N) citric acid, thus minimizing the impact on the environment. The yield of pectin (PY = 4.47-17.8% DM), galacturonic acid content (47.22-83.57 g 100(-1)), ash content (1.42-2.88 g 100 g(-1)), degree of esterification (DE = 45.16-64.06%), methoxyl content (ME = 4.27-8.13%), the total content of phenolic compounds (TPC = 2.076-4.668 mu g mg(-1), GAE) and the antiradical scavenging activity of the pectin samples (DPPH method (0.56-37.29%)) were determined. Free and total phenolic acids were quantified by saponification using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The pectin contained phenolic acids-benzoic (0.25-0.92 mu g mg(-1)), gallic (0.14-0.57 mu g mg(-1)), coumaric (0.04, QC 20230607

[ES] Las emulsiones, geles y bigeles que contienen extracto de lavanda son cosméticos valiosos en la industria de productos de cuidado personal, ya que ofrecen numerosas ventajas debido a la presencia de sustancias activas polifenólicas. Este proyecto consistió en formular estos productos basándose en una amplia investigación bibliográfica y realizando experimentos de laboratorio. El objetivo principal era evaluar las propiedades fisicoquímicas de los cosméticos formulados. Se realizaron varias pruebas para garantizar que el pH, la densidad y la estabilidad se encontraban dentro de los límites adecuados. Las imágenes microscópicas confirmaron que los productos eran emulsiones de aceite en agua (O/W). Además, las mediciones reológicas realizadas con un reómetro proporcionaron curvas de flujo y de viscosidad, demostrando el flujo pseudoplástico y el comportamiento no newtoniano de los cosméticos. Los productos obtenidos, que combinan el efecto hidratante de la formulación base y las propiedades antioxidantes de los polifenoles de lavanda, pueden utilizarse como cosméticos para el cuidado personal de la piel., [EN] Emulsions, gels, and bigels containing lavender extract are valuable cosmetics in the personal care products industry, offering numerous advantages due to the presence of polyphenolic active substances. This project involved formulating these products based on extensive literature research and conducting laboratory experiments. The main objective was to assess the physicochemical properties of the formulated cosmetics. Various tests were performed to ensure that pH, density, and stability were within appropriate limits. Microscopic images confirmed that the products were oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. Furthermore, rheological measurements using a rheometer provided flow curves and viscosity curves, demonstrating the pseudoplastic flow and non-Newtonian behavior of the cosmetics. Obtained products, combining the moisturizing effect of the base formulation and antioxidant properties of lavender polyphenols, can be used as the personal skin care cosmetics.

Lipids play an important role in cheese texture. Their quantity, type and structural characteristics can have adverse effects on product quality. In this study, sunflower oil, oleosomes, oleogel, and coconut oil, were included in pea protein emulsions that were further fermented into pea protein gels and compared to a dairy fresh cheese. The effect of different lipid sources on emulsions stability and on gel structure was evaluated. The different fat sources did not have any significant effect on emulsion stability. The hardness of the dairy cheese, assessed by texture analysis, was found significantly higher than the pea protein counterparts. However, no significant differences were found between the rheological properties of the pea protein gels containing oil, oleosomes, and oleogel and the dairy cheese of reference. Although the protein network is a dominant factor for gel firmness, this study shows that it is possible to produce fermented pea protein gels containing oil, oleosomes, or oleogel with very similar rheological properties to those of a dairy fresh cheese.

Dynamic covalent gels are synthesized from an aromatic trialdehyde and a,?-dinitroalkanes via the nitroaldol reaction in organic solvents. The gelation process can be fine-tuned by changing the starting nitroalkanes, solvents, feed concentration, catalyst loading, or reaction temperature. The resulting organogels demonstrate good structural integrity and excellent self-healing ability. Intact xerogels are produced upon drying, without damaging the network, and the solvent-free network can recover its gel form in the presence of an organic solvent. Furthermore, the crosslinked dynameric gel depolymerize to small molecules in response to excess nitromethane.

In the field of South American textile conservation, the lack of courses in Spanish and the difficulty of connecting with other professionals in the international community are challenges faced in the attempt to update knowledge within the area. With this premise, the Comité Nacional de Conservación Textil (CNCT, National Textile Conservation Committee)—an institution that brings together professionals related to the conservation and investigation of the textile heritage of Chile and other countries of the Southern Cone—developed the initiative to organize a course on textile stain removal techniques with innovative application methods. This review presents the experience of the participants on such a course, titled Disolver o remover para resolver. Curso virtual de conservación sobre la limpieza localizada en textiles (Dissolve or Remove to Resolve. Virtual Conservation Course on Localized Cleaning on Textiles)., En el ámbito de la conservación textil sudamericana la escasez de cursos en español y la dificultad para vincularse con otros profesionales en la comunidad internacional son desafíos que se enfrentan en el intento de actualizar los conocimientos en el área. Con esta premisa, el Comité Nacional de Conservación Textil (CNCT), institución que reúne a profesionales afines a la conservación e investigación del patrimonio textil de Chile y de otros países del Cono Sur, gestó la iniciativa de organizar, con novedosos métodos de aplicación, un curso de técnicas de remoción de manchas en textiles. Esta reseña narra la experiencia como participantes en torno de aquél, titulado Disolver o remover para resolver. Curso virtual de conservación sobre la limpieza localizada en textiles.

The synthesis, supramolecular self-assembly and structural characterization of a new family of tetraethylene oxide (TEG)-based bent-core compounds and their 1/1 lithium-containing complexes are reported. TEG-based bent-core amphiphiles, even joining the TEG/Li+ tandem, are suitable building-blocks to achieve supramolecular nanostructures, in some cases showing chiral features from achiral molecules either in the mesophase or in solvents. The thermal and liquid crystal behavior of these materials studied by polarizing optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction confirmed that Li-based materials stabilized polar smectic C and helical nanofilament-type mesophases, in contrast to the non-liquid crystalline pure TEG-compounds. Alternatively, both the pure amphiphiles and the lithium-doped materials self-assemble into physical gels in non-polar solvents, displaying three-dimensional networks composed of long fibers with lamellar molecular organizations as shown by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Interestingly, biphenyl- and azobenzene-based bent core amphiphiles aggregate in solvent into chiral nanostructured morphologies with supramolecular trends comparable to their molecular arrangement in their liquid crystalline phases.

Antimicrobial hand gels have become extremely popular in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Frequent use of hand sanitising gel can lead to dryness and irritation of the skin. This work focuses on the preparation of antimicrobial acrylic acid (Carbomer)-based gels enhanced by non-traditional compounds-mandelic acid and essential oils-as a substitute for irritating ethanol. Physicochemical properties (pH and viscosity), stability and sensory attributes of the prepared gels were investigated. Antimicrobial activity against representative Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts was determined. The prepared gels with mandelic acid and essential oil (cinnamon, clove, lemon, and thyme) proved to have antimicrobial activity and even better organoleptic properties than commercial ethanol-based antimicrobial gel. Further, results confirmed that the addition of mandelic acid had a desirable effect on gel properties (antimicrobial, consistency, stability). It has been shown that the essential oil/mandelic acid combination can be a dermatologically beneficial hand sanitiser compared to commercial products. Thus, the produced gels can be used as a natural alternative to alcohol-based daily hand hygiene sanitisers.

The field of stimuli-responsive supramolecular biomaterials has rapidly advanced in recent years, with potential applications in diverse areas such as cancer theranostics, tissue engineering, and catalysis. However, designing molecular materials that exhibit predetermined hierarchical self-assembly to control the size, morphology, surface chemistry, and responsiveness of the final nanostructures remains a significant challenge. In this study, we present a divergent synthetic approach for the fabrication of spherical micelles and functional 1D-glyconanotube-based photoresponsive gels from structurally related diazobenzene/diacetylene glycolipids. The resulting nanostructures were characterized using NMR, TEM, and SEM, confirming the formation of spherical and tubular nanostructures in both the gel and solution states. Upon UV irradiation, a reversible gel–sol transition was observed, resulting from the photoswitching of the azobenzene unit from the stretched trans form to the compact, metastable cis form. Our gels were shown to enable spatio-temporal control of the adhesion and release of the lectin Concanavalin A, demonstrating potential use as regenerable biomaterials to fight against infections with toxins and pathogens. Additionally, our micelles and gels were evaluated as nanocontainers for loading and controlled release of hydrophobic dyes and antitumoural agents, suggesting their possible use as smart theranostic drug delivery systems.

[EN]3D printing technology is an innovative additive manufacturing technique that allows the development of three-dimensional structures through layer-by-layer deposition, which can be transferred to the biomedical field with the use of hydrogels as biomaterial inks. The objective of this work was to determine the mechanisms involved in the gelation of block copolymers derived from PEO and PCL with linear and star architecture, as well as to evaluate their mechanical and stability properties as initial requirements for their use as 3D printing biomaterial inks. First, the study in solution of the self-assembly of the copolymers in micelles and the crystallization of the PCL block in the gel was carried out. Subsequently, the viscoelastic properties, stability and printability of the hydrogels were determined. The characterization in solution allowed to determine the critical micelle concentration and the size distribution of the micelles. In addition, the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) assays showed the crystallization of PEO and PCL in the hydrogels of 4-arm star copolymers. Finally, a proof of concept of the use of star copolymers as sacrificial ink in 3D printing by extrusion was shown., [ES] La tecnología de impresión 3D es una técnica de fabricación aditiva innovadora que permite desarrollar estructuras tridimensionales mediante deposición capa a capa, la cual se puede trasladar al ámbito biomédico con el uso de hidrogeles como tintas biomateriales. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar los mecanismos involucrados en la gelificación de copolímeros de bloque derivados de PEO y PCL con arquitectura lineal y de estrella, así como evaluar sus propiedades mecánicas y de estabilidad como requisitos iniciales para su uso como tintas biomateriales de impresión 3D. En primer lugar, se llevó a cabo el estudio en disolución del autoensamblaje de los copolímeros en micelas y la cristalización del bloque de PCL en el gel. Posteriormente, se determinaron las propiedades viscoelásticas, estabilidad e imprimibilidad de los hidrogeles. La caracterización en disolución permitió determinar la concentración micelar crítica y la distribución de tamaños de las micelas. Además, de los ensayos de calorimetría diferencial de barrido (DSC) se evidenció la cristalización del PEO y la PCL en los hidrogeles de copolímeros de estrella de 4 brazos. Finalmente, se mostró una prueba de concepto de la utilización de los copolímeros de estrella como tinta de sacrificio en impresión 3D por extrusión.

Producción Científica, In this study, we investigated the influence of mixing conditions on the foaming process of water blown polyurethane (PU) foams obtained at different mixing speeds (50, 500, 1000 and 2000 rpm). In particular, the morphological evolution during the foaming process, in terms of the bubble size and bubble density, was studied via optical observations, while the effects on the reaction kinetics were monitored using in situ FTIR spectroscopy. At the slow mixing speed (50 rpm), no air bubbles were included and the early foaming process was characterized by the formation of new bubbles (CO2 nucleation), provided by the blowing reaction. Later on, it was observed that the coalescence affected the overall foaming process, caused by the gelling reaction, which was inhibited by the indigent mixing conditions and could not withstand the bubbles expansion. As a result, a PU foam with a coarse cellular structure and an average bubble size of 173 µm was obtained. In this case, the bubbles degeneration rate, dN/dt, was −3095 bubble·cm−3·s−1. On the contrary, at 500 rpm, air bubbles were included into the PU reaction system (aeration) and no formation of new bubbles was observed during the foaming process. After this, the air bubbles underwent growth caused by diffusion of the CO2 provided by the blowing reaction. As the gelling reaction was not strongly depleted as in the case at 50 rpm, the coalescence less affected the bubble growth (dN/dt = −2654 bubble·cm−3·s−1), leading to a PU foam with an average bubble size of 94 µm. For the foams obtained at 1000 and 2000 rpm, the bubble degeneration was first affected by coalescence and then by Ostwald ripening, and a finer cellular structure was observed (with average bubble sizes of 62 µm and 63 µm for 1000 rpm and 2000 rpm, respectively). During the first foaming stage, the coalescence was less predominant in the bubble growth (with dN/dt values of −1838 bubble·cm−3·s−1 and −1601 bubble·cm−3·s−1, respectively) compared to 50 rpm and 50, Universidad de Nápoles Federico II y Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) (POR CAMPANIA FESR 2014-2020) - (CUP B63D18000290007)

Producción Científica, A family of transparent polyisocyanurate-polyurethane (PUR-PIR) aerogels with an interesting combination of physical properties were synthesized. First, their textural properties were analyzed aiming to study catalyst influence on the final porous structures and densities. Their thermal conductivities were measured at different temperatures allowing observation of a clear trend relating the initial formulation with the porous structure and reaching values as low as 12 mW/mK, the lowest found in the literature for aerogels based on this polymer matrix. Contributions to thermal conductivity were calculated, improving the understanding of the porous structure-insulating performance relationship. Moreover, their mechanical properties were studied (elastic modulus, stress at different strains and elastic behavior). The aerogels showed tunable stiffness (elastic modulus from 6.32 to 0.13 MPa) by changing the catalyst concentration and significant elasticity. Thus, super-insulating transparent PUR-PIR aerogels with tailored mechanical properties were obtained opening a wide range of potential applications in the energy, building, automotive and aeronautical sectors, among others. The exceptional insulation of silica aerogels was reached at the same time that their general brittleness was improved while keeping good transparency to visible light (85%, 650 nm). Therefore, these aerogels may constitute an alternative to silica aerogels., Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (grant FPU17/03299), Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (project RTI2018-098749-B-I00), Junta de Castilla y León y Ente Público Regional de la Energía de Castilla y León (EREN_2019_L4_UVA) - (Grant VA202P20)

Producción Científica, A novel synthesis of polyurethane foam/polyurethane aerogel (PUF–PUA) composites is presented. Three different polyurethane reticulated foams which present the same density but different pore sizes (named S for small, M for medium, and L for large) have been used. After the characterization of the reference materials (either, foams, and pure aerogel), the obtained composites have been characterized in order to study the effect of the foam pore size on the final properties, so that density, shrinkage, porous structure, mechanical properties, and thermal conductivity are determined. A clear influence of the pore size on the density and shrinkage was found, and the lowest densities are those obtained from L composites (123 kg/m3). Moreover, the aerogel density and shrinkage have been significantly reduced through the employment of the polyurethane (PU) foam skeleton. Due to the enhanced mechanical properties of polyurethane aerogels, the inclusion of polyurethane aerogel into the foam skeleton helps to increase the elastic modulus of the foams from 0.03 and 0.08 MPa to 0.85 MPa, while keeping great flexibility and recovery ratios. Moreover, the synthesized PUF–PUA composites show an excellent insulating performance, reducing the initial thermal conductivity values from 34.1, 40.3, and 50.6 mW/(m K) at 10 °C for the foams S, M, and L, to 15.8, 16.6, and 16.1 mW/(m K), respectively. Additionally, the effect of the different heat transfer mechanisms to the total thermal conductivity is herein analyzed by using a theoretical model as well as the influence of the measurement temperature., Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (grant FPU17/03299), Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (project RTI2018-098749-B-I00), Junta de Castilla y León y Ente Público Regional de la Energía de Castilla y León (EREN) - (Grant VA202P20), Junta de Castilla y León y Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) - (grant CLU-2019-04)

Producción Científica, In this work, silica aerogel composites reinforced with reticulated polyurethane (PU) foams have been manufactured having densities in the range from 117 to 266 kg/m3 and porosities between 85.7 and 92.3%. Two different drying processes were employed (ambient pressure drying and supercritical drying) and a surface modification step was applied to some of the silica formulations. These composites, together with the reference PU foam and the monolithic silica aerogels, were fully characterized in terms of their textural properties, mechanical properties and thermal conductivities. The surface modification with hexamethyldisilazane (HMDZ) proved to improve the cohesion between the reticulated foam and the silica aerogels, giving rise to a continuous network of aerogel reinforced by a polyurethane porous structure. The samples dried under supercritical conditions showed the best interaction between matrixes as well as mechanical and insulating properties. These samples present better mechanical properties than the monolithic aerogels having a higher elastic modulus (from 130 to 450 kPa), a really exceptional flexibility and resilience, and the capacity of being deformed without breaking. Moreover, these silica aerogel-polyurethane foam (Sil-PU) composites showed an excellent insulating capacity, reaching thermal conductivities as low as 14 mW/(m·K)., Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (grant FPU17/03299), Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (project RTI2018-098749-B-I00), Junta de Castilla y León - (Grant VA202P20), Junta de Castilla y León y Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) - (grant CLU-2019-04), Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) - (grant 47454), Comisión Europea - (grant CA18125), Fundación Portuguesa para la Ciencia y la Tecnología - (projects UID/EQU/00102/2020)

Producción Científica, Nowadays, our society is facing problems related to energy availability. Owing to the energy savings that insulators provide, the search for effective insulating materials is a focus of interest. Since the current insulators do not meet the increasingly strict requirements, developing materials with a greater insulating capacity is needed. Until now, several nanoporous materials have been considered as superinsulators achieving thermal conductivities below that of the air 26 mW/(m K), like nanocellular PMMA/TPU, silica aerogels, and polyurethane aerogels reaching 24.8, 10, and 12 mW/(m K), respectively. In the search for the minimum thermal conductivity, still undiscovered, the first step is understanding heat transfer in nanoporous materials. The main features leading to superinsulation are low density, nanopores, and solid interruptions hindering the phonon transfer. The second crucial condition is obtaining reliable thermal conductivity measurement techniques. This review summarizes these techniques, and data in the literature regarding the structure and thermal conductivity of two nanoporous materials, nanocellular polymers and aerogels. The key conclusion of this analysis specifies that only steady-state methods provide a reliable value for thermal conductivity of superinsulators. Finally, a theoretical discussion is performed providing a detailed background to further explore the lower limit of superinsulation to develop more efficient materials., Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (grant FPU17/03299), Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades - (project RTI2018-098749-B-I00), Junta de Castilla y León y Ente Público Regional de la Energía de Castilla y León (EREN) - (Grant VA202P20), Junta de Castilla y León y Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) - (grant CLU-2019-04)

Advancements in understanding and engineering of virus-based nanomaterials (VBNs) for biomedical applications motivate a need to explore the interfaces between VBNs and other biomedically-relevant chemistries and materials. While several strategies have been used to investigate some of these interfaces with promising initial results, including VBN-containing slow-release implants and VBN-activated bioceramic bone scaffolds, there remains a need to establish VBN-immobilized three dimensional materials that exhibit improved stability and diffusion characteristics for biosensing and other analyte-capture applications. Silica sol-gel chemistries have been researched for biomedical applications over several decades and are well understood; various cellular organisms and biomolecules (e.g., bacteria, algae, enzymes) have been immobilized in silica sol-gels to improve viability, activity, and form factor (i.e., ease of use). Here we present the immobilization of an antibody-binding VBN in silica sol-gel by pore confinement. We have shown that the resulting system is sufficiently diffuse to allow antibodies to migrate in and out of the matrix. We also show that the immobilized VBN is capable of antibody binding and elution functionality under different buffer conditions for multiple use cycles. The promising results of the VBN and silica sol-gel interface indicate a general applicability for VBN-based bioseparations and biosensing applications.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of hybrid materials that offer a promising platform for a range of catalytic reactions. Due to their complex structure, MOFs offer unique opportunities to serve as novel catalysts, or as host to improve the properties of previously studied species. However, while other catalytic approaches have been studied for many decades, the recency of their discovery means that significant work is still needed to develop MOFs as a viable option for large scale application. Herein, we aimed to advance the field of MOFs as both novel catalysts, and as host platforms for other catalytic species. To this end, we studied synthetic pathways to produce favorable MOF properties such as higher porosity and active site concentration through introduction of defects and macromorphological control, as well as utilization of molecular catalysts imbedded in the MOF structure for multicomponent, light driven reactivity. Chapter 1 introduces the history MOFs and the pursuit of the stable structures commonly associated with MOF chemistry. The synthesis process for zirconium-based MOFs will be discussed, with specific attention given to the modulated synthesis process which can harnessed to change MOF properties and improve catalysis. Two specific reactions will be introduced which serve as a basis for study in this work. First, the hydrolysis of organophosphate nerve agents by MOFs acting as novel catalysts will be introduced. The mechanism of reaction, as well as previous work in this field will be discussed. Finally, water oxidation as part of artificial photosynthesis through incorporated molecular catalysts will be introduced. Chapter 2 presents a modulator screening study on a zirconium-based MOF, UiO-66. One of the most commonly studied MOFs, UiO-66 provides an excellent platform for synthetic modulation. Particle size and defect level were measured of 26 synthetic variations and synthetic conditions were found to isolate changes in defect level

Triathlons are endurance events that include swimming, running, and cycling. Triathletes need to eat optimally during training and competitions to maximize their potential for success. The presence of carbohydrates in the mouth could activate regions in the brain to enhance athletic performance in exercise. Methods: This study examined the effects of glucose and mouthwash in ten male triathletes (age: 26.0 ± 8.7 years, height: 173.6 ± 10.4 cm, BMI 22.0 ± 1.7 kg/m2). The four oral test solutions included (A) Rinse with placebo, (B) Water + gel with placebo, (C) Rinse with 15% CH concentration, and (D) Water + gel with 15% CH concentration (25 g gel in 165 mL water). The Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE), Sensation Scale (FS), Felt Arousal Scale (FAS), Profile of Mood States (POMS), blood glucose, sprints, and dietary habits were assessed in each subject. All preceded ingestion of the oral-based test solution during workouts. Results: RPE showed no significant differences for subjective perceptions. The same was observed for FS and sprints. FAS scores increased over time (p = 0.039) in all groups. POMS score increased significantly in group D (p = 0.041). There was no effect of time on plasma glucose levels (p = 0.737). As for correlations, positive correlations were observed between sprint and FAS variables (p = 0.011). Conclusions: It appears that CH intake correlates positively with mood, but in all other variables, there are no differences depending on the product.

Herein, we describe the synthesis of the first boron nitride-doped polyphenylenic material obtained through a [4 + 2] cycloaddition reaction between a triethynyl borazine unit and a biscyclopentadienone derivative, which undergoes organogel formation in chlorinated solvents (the critical jellification concentration is 4% w/w in CHCl3). The polymer has been characterized extensively by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, solid-state 13C NMR, solid-state 11B NMR, and by comparison with the isolated monomeric unit. Furthermore, the polymer gels formed in chlorinated solvents have been thoroughly characterized and studied, showing rheological properties comparable to those of polyacrylamide gels with a low crosslinker percentage. Given the thermal and chemical stability, the material was studied as a potential support for solid-state electrolytes. showing properties comparable to those of polyethylene glycol-based electrolytes, thus presenting great potential for the application of this new class of material in lithium-ion batteries.

Mucus is a self-healing gel that lubricates the moist epithelium and provides protection against viruses by binding to viruses smaller than the gel’s mesh size and removing them from the mucosal surface by active mucus turnover. As the primary nonaqueous components of mucus (≈0.2%–5%, wt/v), mucins are critical to this function because the dense arrangement of mucin glycans allows multivalence of binding. Following nature’s example, bovine submaxillary mucins (BSMs) are assembled into “mucus-like” gels (5%, wt/v) by dynamic covalent crosslinking reactions. The gels exhibit transient liquefaction under high shear strain and immediate self-healing behavior. This study shows that these material properties are essential to provide lubricity. The gels efficiently reduce human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and genital herpes virus type 2 (HSV-2) infectivity for various types of cells. In contrast, simple mucin solutions, which lack the structural makeup, inhibit HIV-1 significantly less and do not inhibit HSV-2. Mechanistically, the prophylaxis of HIV-1 infection by BSM gels is found to be that the gels trap HIV-1 by binding to the envelope glycoprotein gp120 and suppress cytokine production during viral exposure. Therefore, the authors believe the gels are promising for further development as personal lubricants that can limit viral transmission., QC 20221216

BackgroundFragile X syndrome (FXS) is associated with dysregulated endocannabinoid signaling and may therefore respond to cannabidiol therapy.DesignCONNECT-FX was a double-blind, randomized phase 3 trial assessing efficacy and safety of ZYN002, transdermal cannabidiol gel, for the treatment of behavioral symptoms in children and adolescents with FXS.MethodsPatients were randomized to 12 weeks of ZYN002 (250 mg or 500 mg daily [weight-based]) or placebo, as add-on to standard of care. The primary endpoint assessed change in social avoidance (SA) measured by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community Edition FXS (ABC-CFXS) SA subscale in a full cohort of patients with a FXS full mutation, regardless of the FMR1 methylation status. Ad hoc analyses assessed efficacy in patients with ≥ 90% and 100% methylation of the promoter region of the FMR1 gene, in whom FMR1 gene silencing is most likely.ResultsA total of 212 patients, mean age 9.7 years, 75% males, were enrolled. A total of 169 (79.7%) patients presented with ≥ 90% methylation of the FMR1 promoter and full mutation of FMR1. Although statistical significance for the primary endpoint was not achieved in the full cohort, significant improvement was demonstrated in patients with ≥ 90% methylation of FMR1 (nominal P = 0.020). This group also achieved statistically significant improvements in Caregiver Global Impression-Change in SA and isolation, irritable and disruptive behaviors, and social interactions (nominal P-values: P = 0.038, P = 0.028, and P = 0.002). Similar results were seen in patients with 100% methylation of FMR1. ZYN002 was safe and well tolerated. All treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were mild or moderate. The most common treatment-related TEAE was application site pain (ZYN002: 6.4%; placebo: 1.0%).ConclusionsIn CONNECT-FX, ZYN002 was well tolerated in patients with FXS and demonstrated evidence of efficacy with a favorable benefit risk relationship in patients with ≥ 90% me

Hyaluronic acid (HA) and chitosan (CHI) are biopolyelectrolytes which are interesting for both the medical and polymer physics communities due to their biocompatibility and semi-flexibility, respectively. In this work, we demonstrate by rheology experiments that the linear viscoelasticity of HA/CHI coacervates depends strongly on the molecular weight of the polymers. Moduli for coacervates were found significantly higher than those of individual HA and CHI physical gels. A remarkable 1.5-fold increase in moduli was noted when catechol-conjugated HA and CHI were used instead. This was attributed to the conversion of coacervates to chemical gels by oxidation of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) groups in HA and CHI to di-DOPA crosslinks. These rheological results put HA/CHI coacervates in the category of strong candidates as injectable tissue scaffolds or medical adhesives.

Hydrogels of cross-linked mucin glycoproteins (Muc-gel) have shown strong immune-modulating properties toward macrophages in vitro, which are translated in vivo by the dampening of the foreign body response to implantation in mice. Beyond mucin hydrogels, other biomaterials such as sensors, electrodes, and other long-term implants would also benefit from such immune-modulating properties. In this work, we aimed to transfer the bioactivity observed for three-dimensional Muc-gels to the surface of two model materials by immobilizing mucin into thin films (Muc-film) using covalent layer-by-layer assembly. We tested how the surface immobilization of mucins affects macrophage responses compared to Muc-gels. We showed that Muc-films on soft polyacrylamide gels mimic Muc-gel in their modulation of macrophage responses with activated gene expression of inflammatory cytokines on day 1 and then dampening them on day 3. Also, the markers of polarized macrophages, M1 and M2, were expressed at the same level for macrophages on Muc-film-coated soft polyacrylamide gels and Muc-gel. In contrast, Muc-film-coated hard polystyrene led to a different macrophage response compared to Muc-gel, having no activated expression of inflammatory cytokines and a different M1 marker expression. This suggested that the substrate mechanical properties and mucin molecular configuration determined by substrate-mucin interactions affect mucin immune-modulating properties. We conclude that mucin immune-modulating properties can be transferred to materials by mucin surface immobilization but will be dependent on the substrate chemical and mechanical properties., QC 20230523

The development of plasmonic nanomaterials with chiral geometry has drawn extensive attention owing to their practical implications in chiral catalysis, chiral metamaterials, or enantioselective biosensing and medicine. However, due to the lack of effective synthesis methods of hydrophobic nanoparticles (NPs) showing intrinsic, plasmonic chirality, their applications are currently limited to aqueous systems. In this work, we resolve the problem of achieving hydrophobic Au NPs with intrinsic chirality by efficient phase transfer of water-soluble NPs using low molecular weight, liquid crystal-like ligands. We confirmed that, after the phase transfer, Au NPs preserve strong, far-field circular dichroism (CD) signals, attesting their chiral geometry. The universality of the method is exemplified by using different types of NPs and ligands. We further highlight the potential of the proposed approach to realize chiral plasmonic, inorganic/organic nanocomposites with block copolymers, liquid crystals, and compounds forming physical gels. All soft matter composites sustain plasmonic CD signals with electron microscopies confirming well-dispersed nanoinclusions. The developed methodology allows us to expand the portfolio of plasmonic NPs with intrinsic structural chirality, thereby broadening the scope of their applications toward soft-matter based systems.

Ethanol extract of Pandanus amaryllifolius leaves contains quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties. The gel dosage form is very appropriate for wound healing therapy because it gives a cold sensation to the skin. This study aims to formulate a P. amaryllifolius gel by variation of a gelling agent to compare the effect of a natural gelling agent, semi-synthetic gelling agent, and synthetic gelling agent on the physical characteristics of the gel. The gel formulation was made in three formulas. Evaluations include organoleptic, homogeneity, spreadability, adhesion, pH, and viscosity. The optimum gel formula was tested for release study using a dissolution apparatus 5. Determination of release kinetics model using the kinetics approach of zero-order, first-order, Higuchi, and Korsmeyer-Peppas. The organoleptic shows the gel's dark green color, P. amaryllifolius aromas, and good homogeneity. The gel formulas had pH values that matched the physical quality criteria of the gel. Data obtained for the spreadability test for F1, F2, and F3 were 12.16, 14.66, and 10.75 g.cm/sec, respectively. The F1, F2, and F3 adhesion test results were 11.66, 10, and 47.33, respectively. The viscosity of F1 was 15750 cps, F2 was 4807 cps, and F3 was 19380 cps. This study concludes that the optimum formula is obtained from the gelling agent of Na-CMC as a gelling agent. The number of quercetins released from F2 was 42.76%, and the release kinetics model followed the kinetics of Higuchi.

Alginate and whey protein are common additives in food production improving storage stability, texture and nutritional value. Alginate forms complexes with whey protein and inhibits proteolysis by pepsin and trypsin, but the influence of alginate protein complexation on digestion is poorly understood. This study shows that whey protein cross-linking by microbial transglutaminase dramatically decreased particle size (2-fold) and viscosity of alginate protein complexes. The INFOGEST in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion of whey protein was increased by cross-linking (16%) and suppressed by alginate, most pronounced with high mannuronic acid and least with high guluronic acid content. Sizes of alginate whey protein particles increased during gastric digestion, whereas for cross-linked whey protein complexes the size initially increased, but returned to their initial size at the end of gastric digestion. While alginate is not degraded by human enzymes, a few gut bacteria were recently found to encode lyases and other enzymes metabolizing alginate. Alginate lyase added to the intestinal phase enhanced digestion (9%) as controlled by alginate composition and enzyme specificity. Thus we provide evidence that use of hydrocolloids and processing of protein strongly influence digestion and should be considered when using food additives.

The objective of this article was to systematically review the literature to determine how effective tooth whitening procedures are when carried out in tandem with orthodontic clear aligners. This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Online searches of PubMed, Medline via Ovid, Science Direct, the Cochrane database of systematic reviews via Ovid, Scopus, and Google Scholar as well as manual searches of the references of the selected articles were conducted. Clinical studies which assessed the efficacy of dental bleaching using orthodontic clear aligners were included in the present study. Data from the included studies were extracted and assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Three studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in this study. One study compared the efficiency of tooth bleaching between clear aligners and conventional bleaching trays. One study evaluated the effectiveness of dental bleaching using clear aligners by comparing the tooth shade of those patients to a control group of patients who did not receive dental bleaching during orthodontic clear aligner treatment. One study evaluated the effectiveness of different concentrations of different bleaching agents using clear aligners. All the included studies showed an improved tooth shade when using clear aligners as bleaching trays.