Review
Biochemical Research Methods
Blanca H. Lapizco-Encinas
Summary: This review article discusses the evolution of insulator-based dielectrophoresis (iDEP) and insulator-based electrokinetic (iEK) systems, highlighting recent studies that suggest particle trapping in these systems is mainly due to a balance between electroosmotic and electrophoretic effects under DC and low-frequency AC potentials, rather than dielectrophoresis. The proposed renaming of the field from DC-iDEP to DC-iEK reflects the shift in understanding particle manipulation and separation mechanisms in these systems.
ANALYTICAL AND BIOANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Optics
Shashi Prakash, Subrata Kumar
Summary: The article introduces different strategies for fabricating microchannels using CO2 lasers and conducts experimental studies to compare them in terms of surface quality, cross-sectional profile, and other parameters.
OPTICS AND LASER TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Xiangzhi Zhang, Xiawei Xu, Yong Ren, Yuying Yan, Aiguo Wu
Summary: An Y-Y shaped microfluidic device was designed to separate NSCLC cells using a dielectrophoresis approach, with a separation efficiency of around 99% achieved under optimal operating conditions. This study presents a potentially efficient, facile, and low-cost route for circulating tumor cell separation, which was optimized through numerical simulations.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Taekeon Jung, Young-Ran Yun, Jaehyun Bae, Sung Yang
Summary: By integrating magnetic particle conjugation for bacteria concentration and separation, a new impedimetric bacteria-detection sensor has been developed for rapid and accurate detection of low bacteria concentrations in food samples.
ANALYTICA CHIMICA ACTA
(2021)
Review
Biochemical Research Methods
Cinthia J. Ramirez-Murillo, J. Martin de los Santos-Ramirez, Victor H. Perez-Gonzalez
Summary: Dielectrophoretically driven microfluidic devices have various applications in biomedical engineering, diagnostic medicine, and biological research, with a potential field being point-of-care devices. Two main approaches for inducing dielectrophoresis on suspended particles are electrode-based and insulator-based DEP, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Input voltage plays a crucial role in determining the portability of microfluidic devices utilizing DEP.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Qiang Zhao, Yunjiao Wang, Bangyong Sun, Deqiang Wang, Gang Li
Summary: This research presents a dielectrophoretic manipulation technique based on nanogap electrodes, which allows for the capture, enrichment, and sorting of nanometer-sized objects in liquids. The technique shows potential applications in micro/nanofluidics and provides an alternative method for the non-invasive manipulation and characterization of nanoparticles such as DNA, proteins, and viruses.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Lu Tian, Zi Ye, Lin Gui
Summary: This study introduces a dielectrophoresis-based microfluidic device for controlling liquid metal droplets, utilizing liquid metal electrodes and PDMS for the whole chip. By applying different voltages on various electrodes, a non-uniform electric field is generated to drive the droplets, showing flexibility in design and efficient driving performance.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Maria Dimaki, Mark Holm Olsen, Noemi Rozlosnik, Winnie E. Svendsen
Summary: This paper introduces a novel microfluidic chip that utilizes electrical forces generated by a DC or AC field to achieve upconcentration of sub-100 nm nanoparticles in a flow. Two optimized electrode designs were tested using particles as small as 47 nm, and inclined electrodes with a zig-zag three-tooth configuration in a 20 μm width channel were found to generate the highest gradient and force. The chip design based on AC dielectrophoresis successfully upconcentrated sub-100 nm particles by a factor of 11 using a flow rate of 2-25 μL/h. The paper presents theoretical and experimental results, and discusses the potential for massively parallelizing the chip design to significantly increase throughput.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Haozhe Yi, Taotao Fu, Chunying Zhu, Youguang Ma
Summary: This study experimentally investigated the local deformation and head-on coalescence dynamics of droplets in a cross-focused microchannel. The dynamic process was divided into squeezing and decompressing stages, and the flow patterns were studied in relation to the moment of liquid film rupture. The research explored the effects of various factors on the coalescence process and proposed a predictive equation for the nipple angle.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Tom Elkeles, Sinwook Park, Jorg G. Werner, David A. Weitz, Gilad Yossifon
Summary: This work presents the dielectrophoresis and in situ electrorotation characterization of reversible stimuli-responsive dynamic microcapsules that can change their physicochemical properties under varying pH conditions. The study shows that the conductivity of the capsules' shells is most influenced by pH and provides insight into the characteristic time scales of physical processes through transient response measurements. Additionally, the magnetic manipulation of microcapsules with embedded magnetic nanoparticles for lab-on-chip tasks is demonstrated, along with the on-chip determination of their physicochemical state using electrorotation.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Review
Biochemical Research Methods
Jared P. Smithers, Mark A. Hayes
Summary: The development of microfluidic manipulations has led to significant advances in the processing and detection of small volume samples. Effective isolation of single cells and manipulation of complex biomolecule mixtures allows for the utilization of information-rich detection methods. Delivering sub-nanoliter volumes of samples to a detection scheme has been achieved through spraying, meniscus-defined volumes, constrained volumes, and phase changes. This review presents selected publications highlighting the advancements and historical perspectives of these delivery techniques.
ANALYTICAL AND BIOANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Shayan Valijam, Alireza Salehi, Magnus Andersson
Summary: In this paper, a compact label-free microfluidic lab-on-a-chip device is proposed for the separation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and red blood cells (RBCs) at low voltage. The device utilizes a simple electrode arrangement with non-uniform electric fields generated by two arrays of shifted planar electrodes. The device shows high separation efficiency and allows for brightfield imaging of the channel, making it suitable for the early detection of CTCs.
MICROFLUIDICS AND NANOFLUIDICS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ahmed A. Ayash, Harith H. Al-Moameri, Ali Abed Salman, Arnold A. Lubguban, Roberto M. Malaluan
Summary: This study presents a novel microfluidic approach for complete separation of blood cells. The approach utilizes a polydimethylsiloxane serpentine microchannel with a series of electrodes, providing two separation zones. The design exploits the unique channel configuration and the inherent differences in dielectric properties of the three blood cell types to achieve size-based sorting. Platelets are separated in the first zone due to their larger dielectrophoretic force compared to red and white blood cells. The model developed in this work demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed approach, showing complete separation of blood content across different flow rates and AC frequencies.
Review
Biochemical Research Methods
Kel S. Hakim, Blanca H. Lapizco-Encinas
Summary: Nonlinear electrokinetics technologies, such as DEP particle trapping and EROT for particle assessments, have been widely applied in the analysis, sensing, and purification of microorganisms. Recent research has made significant advancements in these technologies, showcasing the potential future developments within the field of microscale EK.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Aureliano Agostinho Dias Meirelles, Ana Leticia Rodrigues Costa, Mariano Michelon, Juliane Vigano, Marcio S. Carvalho, Rosiane Lopes Cunha
Summary: The study evaluated the use of glass microfluidic devices to produce emulsion-filled alginate microgels and investigated the effect of process variables on microgels size and polydispersity. Monodisperse particle size distribution of the microgels was observed, with size influenced by the viscosity of the O/W emulsion and the phases flow rates. These results demonstrate the potential of microfluidic processes for encapsulating lipophilic compounds in microgels.
JOURNAL OF FOOD ENGINEERING
(2022)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Katya M. Aguilar-Perez, Gustavo Ruiz-Pulido, Dora Medina, Roberto Parra-Saldivar, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: This article introduces the prospects and applications of nanotechnology in the food industry, including improving food quality, nutritional value, and food safety, as well as the application of nanomaterials in nutraceutical delivery, obesity treatment, and improving the palatability of healthy foods.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN FOOD SCIENCE AND NUTRITION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Komal Rizwan, Muhammad Bilal, Yassine Slimani, Pau Loke Show, Sami Rtimi, Arpita Roy, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: Increasing global concern over hazardous pollutants in water bodies due to their toxicity and threat to the environment has led to the need for new or upgraded remediation methods. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) utilizing highly reactive oxidizing radicals like center dot O and center dot OH have shown efficacy in the mineralization of dye pollutants. Sonolysis, a newer AOP that employs ultrasound irradiation for generating oxidizing radicals, has become a robust hybrid AOP for degrading environmental contaminants. This review focuses on the degradation of dyes through ultrasound-based AOPs and discusses different sono-based methods and their efficacy for wastewater treatment.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Wenqian Li, Muhammad Bilal, Anil Kumar Singh, Farooq Sher, S. Salman Ashraf, Marcelo Franco, Juliana Heloisa Pine Americo-Pinheiro, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: This article reviews protein engineering approaches that focus on regulating the catalytic microenvironment of enzymes. By adjusting pH, creating water-like microenvironments, and activating enzyme catalysis in organic solvents and gas phase, the effectiveness of catalysts can be optimized, making them important for industrial bioprocesses.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Roha Riaz, Mubeen Ashraf, Nazim Hussain, Zulqarnain Baqar, Muhammad Bilal, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: Enzymes have replaced traditional industrial catalysts as more efficient and eco-friendly alternatives. Protein engineering and immobilization techniques have been developed to improve enzyme functionality and stability for industrial applications.
Review
Food Science & Technology
Pooja Sharma, Ambreen Bano, Surendra Pratap Singh, Sudhir Kumar Srivastava, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Sunita Varjani
Summary: Large-scale food waste disposal has led to environmental degradation and financial losses. Anaerobic digestion is a promising solution for managing food waste and generating energy. This process involves different types of microbes and microbial diversity plays a crucial role in its effectiveness.
JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY-MYSORE
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Namra Ahmad, Shakira Aslam, Nazim Hussain, Muhammad Bilal, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: Lignin can replace fossil fuels and be degraded into organic compounds that can be converted into biopolymers and other high-value goods. Understanding the mechanisms of lignin degradation by microbial communities, strains, and enzymes can enhance our understanding of aromatic metabolism.
BIOENERGY RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Tehreem Mahmood, Nazim Hussain, Areej Shahbaz, Sikandar Mulla, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Muhammad Bilal
Summary: The worldwide depletion of fossil fuel reserves and the associated environmental and health risks are discussed in this study. The need for alternative renewable energy sources, with a focus on algae-based biofuels, is emphasized. Different cultivation systems for algae and various factors affecting biomass yield and biofuel production are outlined. The economic benefits of algae-based biofuels are highlighted.
BIOPROCESS AND BIOSYSTEMS ENGINEERING
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Jose Guadalupe Osorio-Reyes, Hiram Martin Valenzuela-Amaro, Jose Juan Pablo Pizana-Aranda, Diana Ramirez-Gamboa, Edgar Ricardo Melendez-Sanchez, Miguel E. Lopez-Arellanes, Ma. Dolores Castaneda-Antonio, Karina G. Coronado-Apodaca, Rafael Gomes Araujo, Juan Eduardo Sosa-Hernandez, Elda M. Melchor-Martinez, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Roberto Parra-Saldivar, Manuel Martinez-Ruiz
Summary: Due to population growth and anthropological activity, there is a need for sustainable and affordable technologies to meet the current and future demand for agricultural products. The use of chemical fertilizers has caused nutrient shortages and environmental and health problems globally. Green biotechnology based on microalgae biomass offers a sustainable alternative for soil improvement and phytoremediation.
Review
Chemistry, Analytical
Lizeth Parra-Arroyo, Manuel Martinez-Ruiz, Sofia Lucero, Mariel A. Oyervides-Munoz, Mollie Wilkinson, Elda M. Melchor-Martinez, Rafael G. Araujo, Karina G. Coronado-Apodaca, Hugo Velasco Bedran, German Buitron, Adalberto Noyola, Damia Barcelo, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Juan Eduardo Sosa-Hernandez, Roberto Parra-Saldivar
Summary: Wastewater-Based Epidemiology (WBE) is a powerful tool for pandemic surveillance, but the reliability of wastewater results is affected by numerous variables. More comprehensive models are needed to study viral RNA degradation in complex matrices, and wastewater indicators identified through analytical chemistry can be used as health indicators and to determine the initial viral RNA content.
TRAC-TRENDS IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Muhammad Bilal, Ehsan Ullah Rashid, Junaid Munawar, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Jiandong Cui, Jakub Zdarta, Syed Salman Ashraf, Teofil Jesionowski
Summary: Nanobiocatalysts are an emerging field of nanobiocatalysis that integrates enzyme molecules into multifunctional materials like metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Among these materials, functionalized magnetic MOFs have gained significant interest as versatile nano-biocatalytic systems for various organic transformations. These systems offer controllable enzyme microenvironments and show promise in enzyme engineering and biocatalytic transformations.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Muhammad Bilal, Jakub Zdarta, Teofil Jesionowski, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: Manganese peroxidases (MnPs) are enzymes with robust catalytic features that have gained attention in biotechnological applications, particularly in environmental remediation. They can degrade various organic pollutants and immobilized MnP fractions perform well in hostile environments. The article covers the microbial sources, structural attributes, immobilization strategies, and various biotechnological applications of MnP.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Sadia Anjum, Shakira Aslam, Nazim Hussain, Muhammad Bilal, Grzegorz Boczkaj, Wojciech Smulek, Teofil Jesionowski, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
Summary: Given the current issues with global warming and rising greenhouse gas emissions, bio-hydrogen is a viable alternative fuel option. This study examines the different technologies and processes involved in bio-hydrogen production, as well as the limitations and challenges. Organic waste, particularly biodegradable waste, is the preferred feedstock for bio-hydrogen generation. The review also explores alternative options for improving process efficiency and discusses the hindrances to fuel-cell commercialization.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ahmad Farhan, Misbah Zulfiqar, Samiah, Ehsan Ullah Rashid, Shahid Nawaz, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Teofil Jesionowski, Muhammad Bilal, Jakub Zdarta
Summary: The presence of heavy and toxic metals in water sources has negative implications for human health and ecosystems. Recent research has focused on the use of nanomaterials for the removal of these metals, leading to the development of advanced techniques.
CURRENT POLLUTION REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Almendra Reyes-Calderon, Claudia Gutierrez-Garcia, Andrea G. Uriostegui-Pena, Aashish Srivastava, Liliana Aguilar-Marcelino, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Shiek S. S. J. Ahmed, Sujay Paul, Ashutosh Sharma
Summary: The pharmacological properties of plants depend on their secondary metabolites, which are classified based on biosynthesis, structures, and functions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that play important roles in post-transcriptional regulation in plants. This study investigated the miRNA profile of Cumin and its association with secondary metabolite biosynthesis, identifying conserved and novel miRNAs targeting enzymes involved in terpenoid, flavonoid, and lipid/fatty acid pathways.
Editorial Material
Microbiology
Pooja Sharma, Surendra Pratap Singh, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, Yen Wah Tong
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
