Article
Polymer Science
Mohd Avais, Subrata Chattopadhyay
Summary: This article introduces a divergent synthetic approach to prepare functional poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) periodic copolymers and characterizes their properties. The experimental results indicate that these functional PEGs exhibit good biocompatibility and have potential applications in the biomedical field.
MACROMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Muhammad Atif, Kang He, Muhammad Irfan, Yuchen Wang, Fei Hu, Lijuan Chen, Yanmei Wang
Summary: A smart thin stimuli responsive coating based on copolymers was developed to control protein adsorption properties by investigating the effects of pH, ionic strength, and chain length. The experimental observations showed that the coating exhibited switchable ability in response to changes in environmental conditions, and could efficiently adsorb and desorb proteins at different conditions.
PROGRESS IN ORGANIC COATINGS
(2021)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Limin Wang, Yaru Yu, Xiaowen Zhao, Zhen Zhang, Xueling Yuan, Jinlong Cao, Weikun Meng, Lin Ye, Wei Lin, Guanglin Wang
Summary: This study presents a self-powered piezoelectric hydrogel that can significantly accelerate wound healing. The hydrogel has good cytocompatibility and can promote re-epithelialization, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and reduce inflammation through piezoelectric stimulation.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Laura Brelle, Agustin Rios de Anda, Teoman Ozturk, Nathalie Didier, Estelle Renard, Valerie Langlois
Summary: Biocompatible gels based on PHAs were developed using radical polymerization in the presence of PEGDA. The microscopic structure varied depending on the mass proportions between the two polymers, and chemical crosslinking was observed between unsaturated PHA and PEGDA.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Evgenia Vaganova, Dror Eliaz, Ulyana Shimanovich, Gregory Leitus, Emad Aqad, Vladimir Lokshin, Vladimir Khodorkovsky
Summary: Cyclic 6-membered aromatic compounds like benzene and azabenzenes are light-sensitive, leading to the formation of specific compounds through photoinduced reactions. These light-induced processes produce potential applications in thermal energy-harvesting and sensor fields by forming cross-linked oligomers with unique properties.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Xinjing Wang, Yi Wu, Hongzhou Shang, Xiaoran Sun, Kexin An, Qian Zhang, Ning Qiao
Summary: A pH/photosensitive drug carrier, PEG-PDMAEMA-PNBAE, was successfully synthesized by ATRP. The synthesized polymer could self-assemble into homogeneous and stable spherical micelles with a particle size of about 100nm and effective light sensitivity. Curcumin was used as a model drug to investigate the adsorption and release abilities of the micelles, showing high encapsulation rate and drug loading capacity. The in vitro hemolysis and cytotoxicity test demonstrated the good biosafety of the carrier.
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Maosong Xuan, Ju Liang, Junbo Li, Wenlan Wu
Summary: Curcumin-loaded LP micelles significantly improve the aqueous solubility of curcumin and exhibit pH-responsive drug release behavior. LP micelles show higher cell growth inhibition on HepG2 cells and lower cytotoxicity on normal cells, indicating their potential for tumor-targeted delivery.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Florian Baffie, Olivier Boyron, Muriel Lansalot, Vincent Monteil, Franck D'Agosto
Summary: In this study, iodine transfer (co)polymerization (ITP) was used to synthesize polyethylene (PE) and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVA) by employing tri- and tetra-iodofunctionalized chain transfer agents (CTAs) to generate secondary reinitiating radicals. The results showed that well-defined linear PEs with one or two iodo chain ends, as well as three- and four-arm star PE, can be obtained with good control of the polymerization. Furthermore, the copolymerization of ethylene and vinyl acetate led to the formation of well-defined four-arm star EVA.
Article
Polymer Science
Florian Baffie, Olivier Boyron, Muriel Lansalot, Vincent Monteil, Franck D'Agosto
Summary: Iodine transfer polymerization was used to produce polyethylene and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate). A comparison of the kinetics and structures of the polymers formed using different iodine and di-iodo chain transfer agents showed that the iodine transfer polymerization method allows for good control of the polymerization process.
Article
Polymer Science
Puja Das Karmakar, Aparna Shukla, Pralay Maiti, Soumit Chatterjee, Sagar Pal
Summary: RAFT polymerization was used to develop an amphiphilic bioconjugated graft-block copolymer with different hydrophobic segments, showing controlled molecular weight and narrow dispersity. The synthesized copolymer demonstrated cytocompatibility towards human cervical cancer cell lines, efficient loading and sustained release of a hydrophobic drug, suggesting its potential in biomedical science.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jinlong Cao, Xiaowen Zhao, Lin Ye
Summary: In this work, a self-healing PVA-based hydrogel was fabricated by grafting benzaldehyde groups onto a PVA molecular chain and forming reversible imine bonds with amine groups on a quaternized chitosan chain. The hydrogel showed high healing efficiency, rapid recovery, and dynamic features. It has great potential application in biomedical fields such as smart infill biomaterials and tissue engineering scaffolds.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Mohamed M. Abdelghafour, Agoston Orban, Agota Deak, Lukasz Lamch, Eva Frank, Roland Nagy, Szilveszter Ziegenheim, Pal Sipos, Eszter Farkas, Ferenc Bari, Laszlo Janovak
Summary: In this study, the molecular weight-dependent solubility properties of a polymer were used in the field of controlled drug delivery. The biodegradable polymer, poly(ethylene succinate) (PES) polyester, was synthesized with regulated molecular weights for the encapsulation of the Ca2+ channel blocker Nimodipine (NIMO). Increasing the molecular weight of PES enhanced the thermal stability and hydrophobicity of the polyester. The encapsulation of NIMO into PES with increasing molecular weight resulted in the formation of NIMO-loaded PES nanoparticles with improved solubility and stability. The drug release experiments showed that the release of NIMO could be accelerated or prolonged by the molecular weights of PES.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Katerina Mavronasou, Alexandra Zamboulis, Panagiotis Klonos, Apostolos Kyritsis, Dimitrios N. Bikiaris, Raffaello Papadakis, Ioanna Deligkiozi
Summary: A series of N-methyl quaternized derivatives of poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PVP) were synthesized and their impact on the physicochemical properties of the copolymers, especially solvation properties, was studied. The optical properties of the polymers and their solvation properties in binary solvent mixtures were also investigated. The study provides a better understanding of the key polymer-solvent interactions and the correlation between the degree of quaternization and optical properties.
Article
Cell & Tissue Engineering
Michael Goldvaser, Eyal Epstein, Osnat Rosen, Avital Jayson, Niva Natan, Tal Ben-Shalom, Sigal Saphier, Shahaf Katalan, Oded Shoseyov
Summary: A printable, cell-supportive PVA-based bioink with excellent cell attachment properties, incorporating a UV-curable PVA-methacrylate (PVA-MA) polymer mixed with a CRGD peptide, was developed for tissue engineering applications. The formula showed superior cell attachment properties compared to gelatin, and addition of hyaluronic acid enabled printing of the bioink. This mixture is suitable for soft tissue engineering such as skin, adipose, liver or kidney tissue.
JOURNAL OF TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Chotima Seripracharat, Chomdao Sinthuvanich, Thitinun Karpkird
Summary: In this study, an inclusion complex of cationic beta-cyclodextrins and adamantane conjugated poly (vinyl alcohol) was successfully designed and synthesized as a siRNA carrier. The nanoparticles formed by this complex and siRNA showed efficient gene knockdown in vitro, indicating its potential as a siRNA delivery system.
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marijana Ponjavic, Ivana Malagurski, Jelena Lazic, Sanja Jeremic, Vladimir Pavlovic, Nevena Prlainovic, Vesna Maksimovic, Vladan Cosovic, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Filomena Freitas, Mariana Matos, Jasmina Nikodinovic-Runic
Summary: Researchers combined polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) with a bacterial pigment, prodigiosin (PG), to create functionally enhanced poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)-based biomaterials. The addition of PG improved the physical properties and functionality of the biomaterials. The films with PG had a more organized internal structure, higher melting and degradation temperatures, and exhibited excellent anticancer activity against colon cancer cells.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Apollinariia Yu. Dzhuzha, Irina I. I. Tarasenko, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Antonina Lavrentieva, Evgenia G. G. Korzhikova-Vlakh
Summary: Synthetic poly(amino acids) are macromolecules that mimic natural polypeptides and are commonly used as carriers for drug and gene delivery. In this study, we synthesized and characterized amphiphilic copolymers by modifying poly(alpha,L-glutamic acid) with hydrophobic and basic L-amino acids and D-glucosamine. The resulting glycopolypeptides formed nanoparticles that showed reduced macrophage uptake and were non-toxic to human lung epithelial cells. These nanoparticles were also capable of loading hydrophobic drugs, such as paclitaxel, and demonstrated high cytostatic efficacy against human lung adenocarcinoma.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Jessica Aschemann-Witzel, Daniele Asioli, Marija Banovic, Maria Angela Perito, Anne Odile Peschel, Violeta Stancu
Summary: Food loss and waste contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and depletion of natural resources. Upcycling, a new concept in combating food loss and waste, offers potential solutions by enhancing the value of wasted ingredients. However, not all products labeled as "upcycled food" truly fulfill the resource-saving and value-adding promise of upcycling, highlighting the need for clear definitions and consumer education.
TRENDS IN FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Nedjma Tazibt, Mustapha Kaci, Nadjet Dehouche, Mohamed Ragoubi, Leonard Ionut Atanase
Summary: The effect of hydroxyapatite (HAp) synthesized by the chemical precipitation process on the morphology and properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-based composites was investigated. It was found that the addition of 5 wt% HAp led to a slight improvement in the thermal stability and tensile properties of the composite material compared to neat PLA and other composite samples. The study also highlighted the potential use of HAp as a reinforcement in PLA composite materials.
Article
Polymer Science
Oanamari Daniela Orbulet, Annette Madelene Dancila, Simona Caprarescu, Cristina Modrogan, Violeta Purcar
Summary: The main objectives of this study were to immobilize nano zerovalent iron (nZVI) onto a polymeric material (Purolite A400) and synthesize the polymeric material (A400-nZVI) using sodium borohydride (NaBH4) reduction. The obtained A400-nZVI was used to remove nitrate ions from simulated groundwater. The polymeric materials, with and without nZVI (A400 and A400-nZVI), were characterized using FTIR, SEM-EDAX, XRD, and TGA analysis. The results confirmed the presence of nZVI on the polymeric material (A400). The adsorption capacity of A400-nZVI as a polymeric adsorbent was evaluated through kinetic and thermodynamic studies. The experimental results showed that nitrate ions reduction followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Freundlich isotherm. A potential reaction mechanism was suggested based on the kinetic model results. A higher nitrate removal (>80%) was achieved under acidic conditions. The results indicate that the obtained A400-nZVI can be considered as a potential polymeric adsorbent for various pollutants in groundwater and wastewater.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Violeta Purcar, Valentin Raditoiu, Florentina Monica Raduly, Alina Raditoiu, Simona Caprarescu, Adriana Nicoleta Frone, Raluca Somoghi, Mihai Anastasescu, Hermine Stroescu, Cristian-Andi Nicolae
Summary: In recent years, various commercial coatings based on fluorinated materials have been developed using different preparation routes. However, these techniques often require expensive and complex equipment, involve multiple manufacturing steps, or are time- or cost-consuming. This study aimed to develop sustainable hydrophobic and transparent fluorinated hybrid coatings using the sol-gel method, which offers advantages such as lower cost, energy consumption, and easier implementation. The influence of perfluorooctanoic acid in the sol-gel process on the properties of the coatings was evaluated, and different silane precursors were used to synthesize hybrid silica materials. The fluorinated silica coatings showed good transparency and hydrophobicity, making them suitable for potential optical devices.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Camelia Elena Tincu (Iurciuc), Brahim Bouhadiba, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Corneliu Sergiu Stan, Marcel Popa, Lacramioara Ochiuz
Summary: This article reports on the immobilization of α-amylase in gellan hydrogel particles cross-linked with Mg2+ ions. The properties of the particles were influenced by the degree of cross-linking and the amount of immobilized enzyme. The immobilized enzyme showed maximum activity at a temperature of 60 °C and pH of 5.6. The immobilized α-amylase was protected from environmental factors and could be easily recovered and reused in repeated hydrolytic cycles.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mohamed Ragoubi, Morgan Lecoublet, Mehdi Khennache, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Christophe Poilane, Nathalie Leblanc
Summary: This study investigates the effect of retting on the mechanical properties of flax biobased materials. It is found that the retting level affects the smoothness and individualization of technical fibers, leading to a decrease in ultimate modulus and maximum stress. Additionally, the retting process results in biochemical alterations and an increase in the elastic modulus of biocomposites. The porosity content also increases with fiber content, and the optimized processing protocol allows for the highest fiber fraction with the lowest porosity.
Article
Polymer Science
Fathia Rahmani, Omar Larbi Bouamrane, Amina Ben Bouabdallah, Leonard I. Atanase, Abdelkader Hellal, Aurelian Nichita Apintiliesei
Summary: Chitosan films coated with calcium phosphate were studied to mimic the formation of nanohydroxyapatite. Various testing methods confirmed the induction and control of the calcium phosphate coating. In addition, the antimicrobial activity of the phosphorylated derivatives of chitosan was evaluated, showing potential use as dental substitute materials.
Article
Polymer Science
Katherina Fernandez, Aylen Llanquileo, Monserrat Bustos, Valentina Aedo, Isleidy Ruiz, Sebastian Carrasco, Mauricio Tapia, Miguel Pereira, Manuel F. Melendrez, Claudio Aguayo, Leonard I. Atanase
Summary: A conductive composite material for wound dressing was developed using graphene oxide (GO), nanocellulose (CNF), and tannins (TA) reduced with polydopamine (PDA). The composite material was characterized using SEM, FTIR, XRD, XPS, and TGA, and its conductivity, mechanical properties, cytotoxicity, and in vitro wound healing were evaluated. Successful physical interaction between CNF, TA, and GO was achieved. Increasing CNF amount improved the strength, cytotoxicity, and wound healing performance, while reducing thermal properties, surface charge, and conductivity. Slight reduction in cell viability and migration was observed with TA incorporation, possibly due to dosage and chemical composition. However, the in vitro results demonstrated the potential of these composite materials for wound healing.
Article
Polymer Science
Iulia Babutan, Otto Todor-Boer, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Adriana Vulpoi, Ioan Botiz
Summary: In this study, we utilized solvent vapor annealing as a polymer processing method to condense a large amount of solvent vapors onto thin films of block copolymers, promoting their self-assembly into ordered nanostructures. Atomic force microscopy revealed the successful generation of a periodic lamellar morphology of poly(2-vinylpyridine)-b-polybutadiene and an ordered morphology comprised of hexagonally-packed structures made of poly(2-vinylpyridine)-b-poly(cyclohexyl methacrylate) on solid substrates.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Iulia Babutan, Otto Todor-Boer, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Adriana Vulpoi, Ioan Botiz
Summary: In this study, a solvent vapor annealing method was used to swell and promote the crystallization of thin films of polybutadiene-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) triblock copolymers. It was found that thin films with a short poly(ethylene oxide) block were unable to crystallize without swelling, while films with a longer poly(ethylene oxide) block could crystallize both before and after swelling in solvent vapors.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Delia Mihaela Rata, Anca Niculina Cadinoiu, Oana Maria Daraba, Luiza Madalina Gradinaru, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Daniela Luminita Ichim
Summary: This study successfully prepared a new antibiocomposite hydrogel with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties for accelerating burn wound healing. The incorporation of zinc oxide nanoparticles into the hydrogel influenced its morphology and swelling behavior, and exhibited some cytotoxic effects. However, hydrogels containing zinc oxide nanoparticles showed good antimicrobial activity.
Article
Physics, Multidisciplinary
Violeta Purcar, Valentin Raditoiu, Florentina Monica Raduly, Alina Raditoiu, Simona Caprarescu, Adriana Nicoleta Frone, Cristian-Andi Nicolae
Summary: Silica materials with and without TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized via sol-gel route using different silane precursors. Hybrid films were prepared by depositing these materials on glass substrates. The physicochemical and optical properties of the final materials were characterized using various techniques. The interaction between silica material and TiO2 nanoparticles was confirmed by FTIR. The presence of TiO2 nanoparticles improved the thermal stability and reduced weight loss rates of the silica material. The hybrid films showed antireflective properties and different wetting abilities, which make them useful for enhancing the performance of photovoltaic devices.
ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Tabinda Riaz, Nabyl Khenoussi, Delia Mihaela Rata, Leonard Ionut Atanase, Dominique C. Adolphe, Christelle Delaite
Summary: Electrospinning is a versatile technique for fabricating drug-loaded nanofibrous scaffolds. In this study, poly(sigma-caprolactone) and poly(ethylene glycol-400) were used to fabricate nanofibers loaded with Ibuprofen, and their properties and drug release kinetics were investigated.
AUTEX RESEARCH JOURNAL
(2023)
