Search Results (3,996)

The incorporation of a blackcurrant pomace extract (BPE) at 2.5%, 5.0% and 10.0% into an emulsion gel based on high oleic sunflower and linseed oils was examined in order to obtain a functional ingredient to be used as a pork backfat replacer in Vienna sausages. The replacement of the pork backfat with the control emulsion gel reduced the cooking loss but negatively affected the color by decreasing L* and a* values as compared with the traditional product. A decrease in the n-6/n-3 ratio from 10.99 to around 1.54 (by 7 times) was achieved through reformulation, while the PUFA/SFA ratio increased from 0.49 to 1.09. The incorporation of BPE did not have a major impact on the fatty acid profile and improved color by increasing redness, but negatively affected the texture by increasing hardness, gumminess and share force as compared with the sausages reformulated without extract. BPE reduced the pH and the thermal stability of the emulsion gels, increased cooking loss and decreased moisture retention in sausages. BPE increased the oxidative stability of Vienna sausages enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids; however, the incorporation of BPE into the emulsion gels above 5% affected the sensory scores for appearance, texture and general acceptability of the reformulated sausages. Full article

Ivermectin (IVM), a drug originally used for treating parasitic infections, is being explored for its potential applications in cancer therapy. Despite the promising anti-cancer effects of IVM, its low water solubility limits its bioavailability and, consequently, its biological efficacy as an oral formulation. To overcome this challenge, our research focused on developing IVM-loaded lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNPs) designed for potential pulmonary administration. IVM-loaded LPHNPs were developed using the emulsion solvent evaporation method and characterized in terms of particle size, morphology, entrapment efficiency, and release pattern. Solid phase characterization was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Using a Twin stage impinger (TSI) attached to a device, aerosolization properties of the developed LPHNPs were studied at a flow rate of 60 L/min, and IVM was determined by a validated HPLC method. IVM-loaded LPHNPs demonstrated spherical-shaped particles between 302 and 350 nm. Developed formulations showed an entrapment efficiency between 68 and 80% and a sustained 50 to 60% IVM release pattern within 96 h. Carr’s index (CI), Hausner ratio (HR), and angle of repose (θ) indicated proper flowability of the fabricated LPHNPs. The in vitro aerosolization analysis revealed fine particle fractions (FPFs) ranging from 18.53% to 24.77%. This in vitro study demonstrates the potential of IVM-loaded LPHNPs as a delivery vehicle through the pulmonary route. Full article

The multicomponent cold-recycled asphalt emulsion mixture (CRAEM) has the ability of antireflection cracking between the base and the bottom surface layer, but it has secondary compaction and residual void, which is not conducive to crack resistance and fatigue performance. The application of high-frequency vibration mixing technology can reduce voids and improve crack resistance, but it is limited by the complexity of testing to determine the optimal mixing frequency. The fractal dimension of gradation is deduced by fractal theory, and the prediction model for optimal frequency is proposed. Dry, wet, freeze–thaw splitting tests, and rutting tests were employed to test the early mechanical properties of high-frequency vibration mixing specimens corresponding to different vibration accelerations, and mercury inclusion tests were utilized to compare the void distribution corresponding to the optimal mixing frequency and forced mixing, and to verify the prediction model for optimal frequency. The results indicate that the high-frequency vibration mixing technology is able to benefit the initial cracking resistance (28.1% increase), moisture stability (11.2% increase), and high-temperature stability on the macro level on the optimal frequency. Meanwhile, the void distribution structure can be optimized, reducing the proportion of harmful voids and increasing the proportion of transitional pores on the micro level. However, the freeze–thaw resistance needs to be further studied. This study reduces the number and cost of experiments to determine the optimal frequency, and provides theoretical guidance and technical support for the engineering application of the CRAEM. Full article

In this study, proteins were prepared from Schizochytrium pombe residue after oil extraction using isoelectric point precipitation, and their physicochemical and emulsifying properties were investigated. Our objective was to assess the suitability of these proteins for functional ingredient applications. Through a one-way experiment and optimization using response surface design, the effects of time, temperature, pH, and the material–liquid ratio of NaOH alkaline extraction were explored. The isoelectric point is verified by isoelectric point precipitation; the results revealed that crude protein from Schizochytrium (SCP) is minimally soluble at pH 4.2. Compared with whey protein (WP), it promotes better emulsion stability through the emulsification test. This study suggests that Schizochytrium oil-processing byproducts represent a promising source of protein, with potential applications as functional ingredients, offering implications for the usage of these byproducts in various industries. Full article

Poly(hydromethylsiloxane) (PHMS) was cross-linked with 1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-1,3,5,7-tetravinylcyclotetrasiloxane (D₄^Vi) in water-in-oil High Internal Phase Emulsions to form macroporous materials known as polyHIPEs. It was shown that in the process of pyrolysis under Ar atmosphere at 520 °C, the obtained polyHIPEs were converted to ceramers with high yields (82.8–88.0 wt.%). Structurally, the obtained ceramers were hybrid ceramics, i.e., they consisted of Si-O framework and preserved organic moieties. Macropores present in the polyHIPE precursors remained in ceramers. Ceramers contained also micro- and mesopores which resulted from the precursor’s mass loss during pyrolysis. Total pore volume and BET specific surface area related to the existence of micro- and mesopores in ceramers depended on the PHMS: D₄^Vi ratio applied in polyHIPE synthesis. The highest total pore volume (0.143 cm³/g) and specific surface area (344 m²/g) were reached after pyrolysis of the precursor prepared with the lowest amount of D₄^Vi as compared to PHMS. The composite materials obtained after deposition of PdO nanoparticles onto ceramers followed by reduction of PdO by H₂ were active and selective catalysts for phenylacetylene hydrogenation to styrene. Full article

Emulsion explosives have become a hot topic in various studies due to their explosive combustion characteristics and detonation performance under different environmental pressures. The thermal safety of an emulsified matrix was studied with ignition energy as the characterization. A minimum ignition energy test experimental system for emulsion matrices was established in this research. The system simulated the occurrence of hot spots inside emulsion matrices using an electric heating wire. The effect of bubbles on the thermal safety of the emulsified matrix was studied by adding expanded perlite additive to the emulsified matrix. This study investigated the variation trend in the minimum ignition energy of the emulsion matrix under the coupled effect of bubbles and ambient pressure using the orthogonal experimental method. The impacts of two factors on the thermal safety of the emulsion matrix were studied at different hot-spot temperatures. Coupled analysis experiments were conducted on emulsion matrices containing 0%, 1.5%, and 3% expanded perlite under pressure environments of 1 atm, 2 atm, and 3 atm. The critical hot-spot temperature of the emulsion matrix significantly decreases with increasing bubble content at 1 atm and 2 atm pressures, as revealed by intuitive analysis and analysis of variance. However, at 3 atm of pressure, the bubble content in the emulsion matrix has no significant effect on its critical hot-spot temperature. The results show that the thermal safety of the emulsified matrix decreases with the increase in the content of expanded perlite and environmental pressure, and the influence of environmental pressure is more significant than that of the bubble content. This paper’s research content serves as a reference for a safe emulsified matrix and as an experimental basis for establishing a production line for developing new equipment. Full article

Shale formations present significant challenges to traditional drilling fluids due to fluid infiltration, cuttings dispersion, and shale swelling, which can destabilize the wellbore. While oil-based drilling fluids (OBM) effectively address these concerns about their environmental impact, their cost limits their widespread use. Recently, nanomaterials (NPs) have emerged as a promising approach in drilling fluid technology, offering an innovative solution to improve the efficiency of water-based drilling fluids (WBDFs) in shale operations. This study evaluates the potential of utilizing modified silica nanocomposite and graphene nanopowder to formulate a nanoparticle-enhanced water-based drilling fluid (NP-WBDF). The main objective is to investigate the impact of these nanoparticle additives on the flow characteristics, filtration efficiency, and inhibition properties of the NP-WBDF. In this research, a silica nanocomposite was successfully synthesized using emulsion polymerization and analyzed using FTIR, PSD, and TEM techniques. Results showed that the silica nanocomposite exhibited a unimodal particle size distribution ranging from 38 nm to 164 nm, with an average particle size of approximately 72 nm. Shale samples before and after interaction with the graphene nanopowder WBDF and the silica nanocomposite WBDF were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The NP-WBM underwent evaluation through API filtration tests (LTLP), high-temperature/high-pressure (HTHP) filtration tests, and rheological measurements conducted with a conventional viscometer. Experimental results showed that the silica nanocomposite and the graphene nanopowder effectively bridged and sealed shale pore throats, demonstrating superior inhibition performance compared to conventional WBDF. Post adsorption, the shale surface exhibited increased hydrophobicity, contributing to enhanced stability. Overall, the silica nanocomposite and the graphene nanopowder positively impacted rheological performance and provided favorable filtration control in water-based drilling fluids. Full article

The diversity of cyclodextrins and their derivatives is increasing with continuous research. In addition to monomolecular cyclodextrins with different branched chains, cyclodextrin-based polymers have emerged. The aim of this review is to summarize these innovations, with a special focus on the study of applications of cyclodextrins and their derivatives in nano-delivery systems. The areas covered include nanospheres, nano-sponges, nanogels, cyclodextrin metal–organic frameworks, liposomes, and emulsions, providing a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the design and development of nano-delivery systems. Full article

This work investigated the underlying mechanism of thermo-ultrasonic treatment to improve the nutritional properties and emulsion stability of sea bass fish head broth. The effects of ultrasonication on the processing of fish broth were compared with boiling water treatment. The nutritional properties of fish broth mainly include protein, fat, total sugar, 5′-nucleotide and free amino acid content. To achieve a similar effect of nutrient extraction, the thermo-ultrasonic treatment required a shorter time (30 min) than boiling water (120 min). The water-soluble protein, fat and total sugar contents were at their maximum at 120 min of the thermo-ultrasonic treatment. In particular, the fat content increased with the time of thermo-ultrasonic treatment from 0.58% to 2.70%. The emulsion structure of the fish soup was characterized by measuring its color and particle size, using optical microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, and determining its storage stability. Thermo-ultrasonic treatment reduced the particle size of the fish broth emulsion and the fat globules became smaller and more homogeneous. Ultrasonication not only accelerated the nutritional and flavor content of the fish head broth, but also reduced the particle size and enhanced the stability of the emulsified system of the fish broth. The fish head tissue was more severely disrupted by the cavitation effect of an ultrasound, and nutrients migrated more and faster. This was mainly due to the cavitation and mechanical breaking force of the ultrasound on the fish head tissue and the fat globules of the fish broth. Altogether, these findings suggest that the thermo-ultrasonic treatment technique is useful for processing nutrient-rich, storage-stable and ready-to-eat fish head broth. Full article

Vinpocetine (VP) is distributed after oral and intravenous administration, and its uptake in the thalamus, basal ganglia, and visual cortex. Due to poor bioavailability (~7%) and marked first-pass effect (~75%), including a short half-life (2–3 h), oral administration of VP is limited. It requires frequent administration of the drug to obtain a therapeutic effect. Attempts to overcome these difficulties include the use of new drug delivery systems and/or alternative routes of drug administration. One possibility is the common administration of lipid emulsion and drug using the same catheter. However, this procedure is not recommended due to potential interaction and lack of safety data. For this purpose, we checked the compatibility of VP solutions with eight commercially available parenteral nutrition admixtures, i.e., Lipoflex special, Omegaflex special, Lipoflex peri, Omegaflex peri, Kabiven, SmofKabiven, Kabiven Peripheral, and Olimel Peri N4E. Coadministration is only possible if the stability of the drug and the lipid emulsion is confirmed. The available data are scarce and only concern the incompatibility of VP with ibuprofen. Compatibility tests were carried out in simulated administration through a Y-site connector using clinical flow rates. The stability of the drug and lipid emulsion was assessed by visual inspection and measurement of pH, osmolality, particle size as mean droplet diameter (MDD) and percentage of lipids residing in globules larger than 5 µm (PFAT5), zeta potential, polydispersity index, and lipid-free parenteral nutrition admixture(PNA) turbidity. The results of the compatibility of VP with eight commercial PN admixtures showed that all lipid emulsions show different signs of destabilization. In the studied samples, particles larger than 1000 nm, a significant increase in MDD, zeta potential, and loss of homogeneity visible as an increase in the polydispersity index were observed. Most of the samples had PFAT5 above the USP limit (0.05%). Taking into account the obtained data, VP should not be administered with the studied lipid emulsions for parenteral nutrition. Full article

Addressing the current lining cracking problem in coastal tunnels, this paper independently introduces a novel type of repair material for tunnel lining cracks—the composite repair material consisting of waterborne epoxy resin and ultrafine cement (referred to as EC composite repair material). Through indoor testing, we have analyzed the change rule of the mass change rate, compressive strength, flexural strength, and chloride ion concentration of the repair material samples in erosive environments, with the dosage of each component in the EC composite repair material being varied. We have also investigated the working performance, mechanical properties, and microstructure of the repair material. The results of this study show that when the proportion of each component of ultrafine cement, waterborne epoxy resin, waterborne epoxy curing agent, waterborne polyurethane, defoamer, and water is 100:50:50:2.5:0.5:30, the performance of the EC composite repair material in a chloride ion-rich environment is optimal in all aspects. When the mixing ratio of each component of the EC composite repair material is as stated above, the repair material exhibits the best performance in a chloride ion erosion environment. With this ratio of components in the EC composite repair material, the fluidity, setting time, compressive strength, flexural strength, and bond strength of the repair material in a chloride ion erosion environment can meet the requirements of relevant specifications, and it is highly effective in repairing tunnel lining cracks. The polymeric film formed by the reaction between the waterborne epoxy resin emulsion and the curing agent fills the pores between the hydration products, resulting in a densely packed internal structure of EC composite repair material with enhanced erosion resistance, making it very suitable for repairing cracks in tunnel linings in erosive environments. Full article

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is a life-sustaining method to provide adequate nutrients to patients unable to receive oral or enteral nutrition. PN typically contains a mixture of macro- and micro-nutrients, although the lipid composition has been identified as a concern for liver disease. Therefore, the study of the intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) prescribing practices in home-based PN (HPN) patients and whether differing lipid PN alters liver function tests (LFTs) is needed. Methods: A retrospective study of monthly LFTs from a random sample of 105 adult HPN patients in the U.S. over a 6-month period was conducted. Patients were receiving olive oil/soy oil (n = 53, Clinolipid), mixed ILE (n = 39, SMOF Lipid), soy oil (SO; n = 4, Intralipid), or none (n = 7). LFTs monitored were alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and total bilirubin (T Bili). Results: No differences were observed in baseline LFTs across groups (all, p > 0.25, η² < 0.04), nor were there differences in age, body mass index, days of PN, or mean PN volume (all, p > 0.36, η² < 0.05). There were no significant interactions between ILE type and time (all p > 0.64, η_p² < 0.03), no effect of ILE type (all p > 0.60, η_p² < 0.03), and no effect of time (all p > 0.69, η_p² < 0.01) in terms of LFTs. Average LFTs over six months were also not different between ILE types (all p > 0.30, η² < 0.04). Conclusion: These findings suggested that patients were mostly prescribed mixed or ILE PN containing more than one lipid source and that differing ILEs in long-term HPN patients did not alter LFTs over a six-month period. Full article

This study investigates the impact of infill density on the mechanical properties of fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) and PLA reinforced with carbon fiber (PLA+CF) specimens, which hold industrial significance due to their applications in industries where mechanical robustness and durability are critical. Exposure to cooling lubricants is particularly relevant for environments where these materials are frequently subjected to cooling fluids, such as manufacturing plants and machine shops. This research aims to explore insights into the mechanical robustness and durability of these materials under realistic operating conditions, including prolonged exposure to cooling lubricants. Tensile tests were performed on PLA and PLA+CF specimens printed with varying infill densities (40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%). The specimens underwent tensile testing before and after exposure to cooling lubricants for 7 and 30 days, respectively. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, maximum force, strain, and Young’s modulus were measured to evaluate the effects of infill density and lubricant exposure. Higher infill densities significantly increased tensile strength and maximum force for both PLA and PLA+CF specimens. PLA specimens showed an increase in tensile strength from 22.49 MPa at 40% infill density to 45.00 MPa at 100% infill density, representing a 100.09% enhancement. PLA+CF specimens exhibited an increase from 23.09 MPa to 42.54 MPa, marking an 84.27% improvement. After 30 days of lubricant exposure, the tensile strength of PLA specimens decreased by 15.56%, while PLA+CF specimens experienced an 18.60% reduction. Strain values exhibited minor fluctuations, indicating stable elasticity, and Young’s modulus improved significantly with higher infill densities, suggesting enhanced material stiffness. Increasing the infill density of FDM 3D-printed PLA and PLA+CF specimens significantly enhance their mechanical properties, even under prolonged exposure to cooling lubricants. These findings have significant implications for industrial applications, indicating that optimizing infill density can enhance the durability and performance of 3D-printed components. This study offers a robust foundation for further research and practical applications, highlighting the critical role of infill density in enhancing structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. Full article

Skin-friendly textile materials were obtained by applying oil-in-water emulsions based on palmarosa essential oil, chamomile, and calendula tinctures onto cotton fabrics. Different formulations based on these bioactive principles incorporated in collagen as polymeric matrices were prepared and immobilized on a plain weave textile structure from 100% cotton. The functionalized textile materials were characterized in terms of physicochemical, mechanical, antibacterial, and biocompatibility points of view. The pH values of the prepared emulsions were in the range of 4.81–5.23 and showed no significant differences after 4 h of storage. Moreover, the addition of a higher quantity of active principles (palmarosa essential oil and plant tinctures) caused slightly lower values of acidic pH. The electrical conductivity of the obtained emulsions increased with the decrease in the oil phases in the system. The highest values were obtained for the emulsion developed with the smallest volume fraction of active principle—palmarosa essential oil and plant tinctures. The emulsion that contained the least amount of collagen and the highest number of active principles exhibited the lowest stability. The textile materials treated with synthesized emulsions exerted antibacterial effects against S. aureus and E. coli strains and did not affect keratinocyte growth, spreading, and organization, highlighting the biocompatibility of these developed skin-friendly textiles. Full article

Due to global development and increased public awareness of food’s effects on health, demands for innovative and healthy products have risen. Biodegradable and environmentally friendly polymer usage in modern food products is a promising approach to reduce the negative health and environmental effects of synthetic chemicals. Also, desirable features such as flavor, texture, shelf-life, storage condition, water holding capacity, a decrease in water activity, and an oil absorption of fried food have been improved by many polysaccharides. One of the important polymers, which is applied in the food industry, is alginate. Alginates are a safe and widely used compound in various industries, especially the food industry, which has led to innovative methods for for the improvement of this industry. Currently, different applications of alginate in stable emulsions and nano-capsules in food applications are due to the crosslinking properties of alginate with divalent cations, such as calcium ions, which have been studied recently. The main aim of this review is to take a closer look at alginate properties and applications in the food industry. Full article