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Search Results (2,431)

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Keywords = impact of films

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19 pages, 1949 KiB  
Article
Non-Invasive Dry Eye Disease Detection Using Infrared Thermography Images: A Proof-of-Concept Study
by Laily Azyan Ramlan, Wan Mimi Diyana Wan Zaki, Marizuana Mat Daud and Haliza Abdul Mutalib
Diagnostics 2025, 15(16), 2084; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15162084 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Dry Eye Disease (DED) significantly impacts quality of life due to the instability of the tear film and reduced tear production. The limited availability of eye care professionals, combined with traditional diagnostic methods that are invasive, non-portable, and time-consuming, results in delayed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Dry Eye Disease (DED) significantly impacts quality of life due to the instability of the tear film and reduced tear production. The limited availability of eye care professionals, combined with traditional diagnostic methods that are invasive, non-portable, and time-consuming, results in delayed detection and hindered treatment. This proof-of-concept study aims to explore the feasibility of using smartphone-based infrared thermography (IRT) as a non-invasive, portable screening method for DED. Methods: This study included infrared thermography (IRT) images of 40 subjects (22 normal and 58 DED). Ocular surface temperature changes at three regions of interest (ROIs): nasal cornea, center cornea, and temporal cornea, were compared with Tear Film Break-up Time (TBUT) and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores. Statistical correlations and independent t-tests were performed, while machine learning (ML) models classified normal vs. DED eyes. Results: In these preliminary results, DED eyes exhibited a significantly faster cooling rate (p < 0.001). TBUT showed a negative correlation with OSDI (r = −0.802, p < 0.001) and positive correlations with cooling rates in the nasal cornea (r = 0.717, p < 0.001), center cornea (r = 0.764, p < 0.001), and temporal cornea (r = 0.669, p < 0.001) regions. Independent t-tests confirmed significant differences between normal and DED eyes across all parameters (p < 0.001). The Quadratic Support Vector Machine (SVM) achieved the highest accuracy among SVM models (90.54%), while the k-Nearest Neighbours (k-NN) model using Euclidean distance (k = 3) outperformed overall with 91.89% accuracy, demonstrating strong potential for DED classification. Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence supporting the use of smartphone-based infrared thermography (IRT) as a screening tool for DED. The promising classification performance highlights the potential of this approach, though further validation on larger and more diverse datasets is necessary to advance toward clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Eye Imaging)
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17 pages, 4237 KiB  
Article
Controlled Release of D-Limonene from Biodegradable Films with Enzymatic Treatment
by Viktor Nakonechnyi, Viktoriia Havryliak and Vira Lubenets
Polymers 2025, 17(16), 2238; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17162238 - 17 Aug 2025
Viewed by 151
Abstract
The instability of many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) limits their usage in different fragrance carriers and products. In scratch-and-sniff applications, VOCs are bound so strongly that release cannot happen without an external trigger. On the other hand, other fixatives like cyclodextrins release unstable [...] Read more.
The instability of many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) limits their usage in different fragrance carriers and products. In scratch-and-sniff applications, VOCs are bound so strongly that release cannot happen without an external trigger. On the other hand, other fixatives like cyclodextrins release unstable volatile molecules too rapidly. We engineered biodegradable gelatin films whose release profile can be tuned by glycerol plasticization and alkaline protease degradation. Digitalized VOC release profiles acquired with the described near-real-time analysis toolkit are digital twins that replicate the behavior of the evaluated films in silico. Seven formulations were cast from 10% gelatin containing D-limonene, glycerol (5%, 20%), protease-C 30 kU mL−1, and samples with additional water to establish a higher hydromodule for protease catalytic activity. Release profiles were monitored for nine days at 23 ± 2 °C in parallel by metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) e-noses, gravimetric weight loss, and near-infrared measurements (NIR). These continuous measurements were cross-checked with gel electrophoresis, FTIR spectroscopy, hardness tests, and sensory intensity ratings. Results showed acceleration of VOC release by enzymatic treatment during the first days, as well as overall impact on the release profile. Differences in low and high glycerol films were observed, and principal component analysis of NIR spectra separated low and high glycerol groups, mirroring the MOS and FTIR data. Usability of MOS data was explored in comparison to more biased and subjective intensity results from sensory panel evaluation. Overall, the created toolkit showed good cross-checked results and enabled the possibility for close to real-time analysis for bio-based VOC carriers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Thin Films and Their Applications)
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10 pages, 984 KiB  
Article
Comparing Non-Invasive and Fluorescein Tear Break-Up Time in a Pre-Operative Refractive Surgery Population: Implications for Clinical Diagnosis
by Rebecca Cairns, Richard N. McNeely, Mark C. M. Dunne, Raquel Gil-Cazorla, Shehzad A. Naroo and Jonathan E. Moore
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(16), 5794; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14165794 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
Objectives: Fluorescein break-up time (FBUT) is commonly used to assess tear film stability. However, the instillation of fluorescein destabilises the tear film, impacting validity and clinical applicability, while the subjective nature and variation in volume and concentration reduces repeatability. Non-invasive break-up time (NIBUT) [...] Read more.
Objectives: Fluorescein break-up time (FBUT) is commonly used to assess tear film stability. However, the instillation of fluorescein destabilises the tear film, impacting validity and clinical applicability, while the subjective nature and variation in volume and concentration reduces repeatability. Non-invasive break-up time (NIBUT) offers an alternative method with less potential bias. Normal tear break-up time is conventionally accepted as 10 seconds (s); however, FBUT is expected to be lower than NIBUT. This study was designed to compare FBUT and NIBUT values in a pre-operative refractive surgery population, where diagnosis of dry eye disease may alter the risk–benefits ratio and contraindicate surgical procedure(s). Improved understanding of the relationship between these two methods will aid appropriate pre-operative patient counselling and consent. Methods: Data from consecutive participants presenting to a private ophthalmology clinic, for initial refractive surgery pre-operative assessment, were analysed. NIBUT and FBUT were performed. Paired and unpaired comparisons were made using the Wilcoxon signed-rank and Mann–Whitney U tests, respectively, and relationships with demographics were explored using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Results: Median and interquartile range (IQR) for the first NIBUT was 12.5 s (7.0–18.0 s) and 14.2 s (9.4–18.0 s) for the right and left eyes, respectively. Median and IQR for the average NIBUT was 14.0 s (6.9–18.0 s) and 14.6 s (10.1–18.0 s) for the right and left eyes, respectively. Median and IQR for FBUT was 7 s (5–8 s) and 6 s (5–8 s) for the right and left eyes, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between NIBUT and FBUT (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings suggest that the commonly used diagnostic threshold of 10 s cannot be uniformly applied to both FBUT and NIBUT, as FBUT systematically underestimates tear stability. Full article
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16 pages, 32413 KiB  
Article
Impact of Streamwise Pressure Gradient on Shaped Film Cooling Hole Using Large Eddy Simulation
by Yifan Yang, Kexin Hu, Can Ma, Xinrong Su and Xin Yuan
Fluids 2025, 10(8), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/fluids10080214 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 144
Abstract
In turbine blade environments, the combination of blade curvature and accelerating flow gives rise to streamwise pressure gradients (SPGs), which substantially impact coolant–mainstream interactions. This study investigates the effect of SPGs on film cooling performance using Large Eddy Simulation (LES) for a shaped [...] Read more.
In turbine blade environments, the combination of blade curvature and accelerating flow gives rise to streamwise pressure gradients (SPGs), which substantially impact coolant–mainstream interactions. This study investigates the effect of SPGs on film cooling performance using Large Eddy Simulation (LES) for a shaped cooling hole at a density ratio of DR=1.5 under two blowing ratios: M=0.5 and M=1.6. Both favorable pressure gradient (FPG) and zero pressure gradient (ZPG) conditions are examined. LES predictions are validated against experimental data in the high blowing ratio case, confirming the accuracy of the numerical method. Comparative analysis of the time-averaged flow fields indicates that, at M=1.6, FPG enhances wall attachment of the coolant jet, reduces boundary layer thickness, and suppresses vertical dispersion. Counter-rotating vortex pairs (CVRPs) are also compressed in this process, leading to improved downstream cooling. At M=0.5, however, the ZPG promotes greater lateral coolant spread near the hole exit, resulting in superior near-field cooling performance. Instantaneous flow structures are also analyzed to further explore the unsteady dynamics governing film cooling. The Q criterion exposes the formation and evolution of coherent vortices, including hairpin vortices, shear-layer vortices, and horseshoe vortices. Compared to ZPG, the FPG case exhibits a greater number of downstream hairpin vortices identified by density gradient, and this effect is particularly pronounced at the lower blowing ratio. The shear layer instability is evaluated using the local gradient Ri number, revealing widespread Kelvin–Helmholtz instability near the jet interface. In addition, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis shows that FPG shifts disturbance energy to lower frequencies with higher amplitudes, indicating enhanced turbulent dissipation and intensified coolant mixing at a low blowing ratio. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Simulation of Turbulent Flows, 2nd Edition)
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23 pages, 3205 KiB  
Review
Biodegradable Packaging from Agricultural Wastes: A Comprehensive Review of Processing Techniques, Material Properties, and Future Prospects
by Bekzhan D. Kossalbayev, Ayaz M. Belkozhayev, Arman Abaildayev, Danara K. Kadirshe, Kuanysh T. Tastambek, Akaidar Kurmanbek and Gaukhar Toleutay
Polymers 2025, 17(16), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17162224 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 366
Abstract
Packaging demand currently exceeds 144 Mt per year, of which >90% is conventional plastic, generating over 100 Mt of waste and 1.8 Gt CO2-eq emissions annually. In this review, we systematically survey three classes of lignocellulosic feedstocks, agricultural residues, fruit and [...] Read more.
Packaging demand currently exceeds 144 Mt per year, of which >90% is conventional plastic, generating over 100 Mt of waste and 1.8 Gt CO2-eq emissions annually. In this review, we systematically survey three classes of lignocellulosic feedstocks, agricultural residues, fruit and vegetable by-products, and forestry wastes, with respect to their physicochemical composition (cellulose crystallinity, hemicellulose ratio, and lignin content) and key processing pathways. We then examine fabrication routes (solvent casting, extrusion, and compression molding) and quantify how compositional variables translate into film performance: tensile strength, elongation at break (4–10%), water vapor transmission rate, thermal stability, and biodegradation kinetics. Highlighted case studies include the reinforcement of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with 7 wt% oxidized nanocellulose, yielding a >90% increase in tensile strength and a 50% reduction in water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), as well as pilot-scale extrusion of rice straw/polylactic acid (PLA) blends. We also assess techno-economic metrics and life-cycle impacts. Finally, we identify four priority research directions: harmonizing pretreatment protocols to reduce batch variability, scaling up nanocellulose extraction and film casting, improving marine-environment biodegradation, and integrating circular economy supply chains through regional collaboration and policy frameworks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Circular and Green Sustainable Polymer Science)
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16 pages, 2807 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of Carbon Nanoparticles on the Interfacial Properties of the Pulmonary Surfactant Film
by Yingxue Geng, Qun Zhao, Junfeng Wang, Yan Cao, Yunshan Wang, Wenshi Gou, Linfeng Zhang and Senlin Tian
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(16), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15161244 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 163
Abstract
The interaction between carbon nanoparticles (CNs) and Langmuir monolayers of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) as a model pulmonary surfactant (PS) film was studied to shed light on the physicochemical bases underlying the potential adverse effects associated with pollutant inhalation. The results indicated that the surface [...] Read more.
The interaction between carbon nanoparticles (CNs) and Langmuir monolayers of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) as a model pulmonary surfactant (PS) film was studied to shed light on the physicochemical bases underlying the potential adverse effects associated with pollutant inhalation. The results indicated that the surface pressure–area isotherms of the DPPC monolayers shifted toward lower molecular areas, and the compression modulus was reduced in the presence of CNs, hindering the ability of the DPPC monolayers to reduce the surface tension. The relaxation process of the DPPC monolayers were influenced, and the surface morphology and the continuity of the monolayers were destroyed by the penetration of CNs into the DPPC monolayers. The molecular dynamics simulation revealed that particle incorporation into the DPPC monolayers reduced the packing density of the DPPC molecules, worsening the mechanical performance of the monolayers. This effect was attributed to the strong binding trend between the CNs and the DPPC molecules. These results demonstrated that CNs could alter the relaxation mechanisms of the PS film, and this may cause a modification of the inhaled particle transport at the PS film and contribute to adverse health effects in the respiratory system of workers involved in the CN production process. Full article
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21 pages, 9954 KiB  
Article
Visual Heritage and Motion Design: The Graphic-Cultural Legacy of Saul Bass’s Title Sequences
by Vincenzo Maselli and Giulia Panadisi
Heritage 2025, 8(8), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8080329 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 694
Abstract
Opening titles are more than introductory devices supporting the film they have been produced for; they are artistic and cultural artefacts with a powerful visual identity. Among the most emblematic figures in this design field, the graphic and motion designer Saul Bass (1920–1996) [...] Read more.
Opening titles are more than introductory devices supporting the film they have been produced for; they are artistic and cultural artefacts with a powerful visual identity. Among the most emblematic figures in this design field, the graphic and motion designer Saul Bass (1920–1996) pioneered an approach that redefined the identity, the design, and the experience of cinematic title sequences, opening a path of experimentation aimed at bridging visual communication, moving images, stylistic innovation, and aesthetic synaesthesia, through a combination of sound, movement, and image into a single expressive unit. This article investigates Bass’s contribution through a historical-critical and comparative lens, reconstructing the network of artistic and technological influences that shaped his design philosophy. It analyzes a selection of Bass’s title sequences, highlights his connection to European modernism, and identifies the seeds of postmodern culture in several aspects of Bass’s work such as the merging of principles coming from design and animation studies, the ambition for technological experimentation, and the openness towards a mass audience. By framing Bass’s creative legacy as a form of visual heritage, the article examines the ways in which his kinetic typography and moving compositions can be, therefore, recognized as resources for art historians, media scholars, designers, and visual communication theorists to track down the first and impactful aesthetic and narrative experiments conducted in the postmodern and contemporary motion graphic design field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cultural Heritage)
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31 pages, 10217 KiB  
Review
Silane-Coupled Silica Nanoparticles Encapsulating Emitting Quantum Dots: Advancing Robust Phosphors for Displays and Beyond
by Norio Murase and Chunliang Li
Molecules 2025, 30(16), 3369; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30163369 - 13 Aug 2025
Viewed by 383
Abstract
Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor crystals a few nanometers in size. Due to their vibrant colors and unique photoluminescence (PL), QDs are widely utilized in displays, where barrier films provide essential shielding. However, one of the primary challenges of QD applications remains [...] Read more.
Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor crystals a few nanometers in size. Due to their vibrant colors and unique photoluminescence (PL), QDs are widely utilized in displays, where barrier films provide essential shielding. However, one of the primary challenges of QD applications remains achieving sufficient robustness while keeping costs low. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in the encapsulation of QDs within silica matrices, aiming to preserve their original PL properties. Research efforts have evolved from bulk forms to thin films. Silica nanoparticles containing multiple embedded QDs have emerged as particularly promising candidates for practical applications. This review highlights recent advancements in silica-based QD encapsulation, incorporating findings from both the authors’ investigations and those of other research groups within the field. Silica glass possesses inherent shielding capabilities, but silane coupling agents such as (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane and (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane tend to negatively impact this functionality when they are used alone, partly because of the limited formation of a well-developed glass network structure. However, when judiciously controlled, they can serve as mediators between the QD surface and the surrounding pure silica glass matrix, helping to preserve PL properties and control the morphology of silica particles. This review discusses the potential for achieving exceptional shielding properties through sol–gel glass fabrication at low temperatures, utilizing both tetraethoxysilane and other silane coupling agents. Full article
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12 pages, 2284 KiB  
Article
Degradation Mechanisms in Metallized Barrier Films for Vacuum Insulation Panels Subjected to Flanging-Induced Stress
by Juan Wang, Ziling Wang, Delei Chen, Zhibin Pei, Jian Shen and Ningning Zhou
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(16), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15161231 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 180
Abstract
The long-term reliability of vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) is constrained by the barrier film degradation caused by micro-cracks during the flanging process. However, the correlation mechanism between process parameters and microleakage remains unclear. This study systematically investigates the impact of the number of [...] Read more.
The long-term reliability of vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) is constrained by the barrier film degradation caused by micro-cracks during the flanging process. However, the correlation mechanism between process parameters and microleakage remains unclear. This study systematically investigates the impact of the number of flanging cycles on the barrier properties and insulation failure of aluminum foil composite film (AF) and metallized polyester film (MF). Accelerated aging tests revealed that the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of MF surged by 340% after five flanging cycles, while its oxygen transmission rate (OTR) increased by 22%. In contrast, AF exhibited significantly increased gas permeability due to brittle fracture of its aluminum layer. Thermal conductivity measurements demonstrated that VIPs subjected to ≥5 flanging cycles experienced a thermal conductivity increase of 5.22 mW/(m·K) after 30 days of aging, representing a 7.1-fold rise compared to unbent samples. MF primarily failed through interfacial delamination, whereas AF failed predominantly via aluminum layer fracture. This divergence stems from the substantial difference in mechanical properties between the metal and the polymer substrate. The study proposes optimizing the flanging process (≤3 bending cycles) and establishes a micro-crack propagation prediction model using X-ray computed tomography (CT). These findings provide crucial theoretical and technical foundations for enhancing VIP manufacturing precision and extending service life, holding significant practical value for energy-saving applications in construction and cryogenic fields. Full article
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22 pages, 7832 KiB  
Article
Investigation into the Dynamic Evolution Characteristics of Gear Injection Lubrication Based on the CFD-VOF Model
by Yihong Gu, Xinxing Zhang, Lin Li and Qing Yan
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2540; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082540 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 273
Abstract
In response to the growing demand for lightweight and high-efficiency industrial equipment, this study addresses the critical issue of lubrication failure in high-speed, heavy-duty gear reducers, which often leads to reduced transmission efficiency and premature mechanical damage. A three-dimensional transient multiphysics-coupled model of [...] Read more.
In response to the growing demand for lightweight and high-efficiency industrial equipment, this study addresses the critical issue of lubrication failure in high-speed, heavy-duty gear reducers, which often leads to reduced transmission efficiency and premature mechanical damage. A three-dimensional transient multiphysics-coupled model of oil-jet lubrication is developed based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The model integrates the Volume of Fluid (VOF) multiphase flow method with the shear stress transport (SST) k−ω turbulence model. This framework enables the accurate capture of oil-jet interface fragmentation, reattachment, and turbulence-coupled behavior within the gear meshing region. A parametric study is conducted on oil injection velocities ranging from 20 to 50 m/s to elucidate the coupling mechanisms between geometric configuration and flow dynamics, as well as their impacts on oil film evolution, energy dissipation, and thermal management. The results reveal that the proposed method can reveal the dynamic evolution characteristics of the gear injection lubrication. Adopting an appropriately moderate injection velocity (30 m/s) improves oil film coverage and continuity, with the lubricant transitioning from discrete droplets to a dense wedge-shaped film within the meshing zone. Optimal lubrication performance is achieved at this velocity, where oil shear-carrying capacity and kinetic energy utilization efficiency are maximized, while excessive turbulent kinetic energy dissipation is effectively suppressed. Dynamic monitoring data at point P further corroborate that a well-tuned injection velocity stabilizes lubricant-velocity fluctuations and improves lubricant oil distribution, thereby promoting consistent oil film formation and more efficient heat transfer. The proposed closed-loop collaborative framework—comprising model initialization, numerical solution, and post-processing—together with the introduced quantitative evaluation metrics, provides a solid theoretical foundation and engineering reference for structural optimization, energy control, and thermal reliability design of gearbox lubrication systems. This work offers important insights into precision lubrication of high-speed transmissions and contributes to the sustainable, green development of industrial machinery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Process Control and Monitoring)
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18 pages, 3067 KiB  
Article
Beer Bagasse as Filler for Starch-Based Biocomposite Films for Food Packaging Applications
by Paula Gómez-Contreras, Maite Cháfer, Amparo Chiralt and Chelo González-Martínez
Biomass 2025, 5(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass5030046 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Development of biodegradable packaging materials and valorization of agri-food waste are necessary to produce more sustainable materials while reducing the environmental impact. Starch-based biocomposite films reinforced with beer bagasse fractions with different purification degrees were developed and characterized in structural, mechanical, thermal and [...] Read more.
Development of biodegradable packaging materials and valorization of agri-food waste are necessary to produce more sustainable materials while reducing the environmental impact. Starch-based biocomposite films reinforced with beer bagasse fractions with different purification degrees were developed and characterized in structural, mechanical, thermal and optical properties. To this aim, 5% and 10% (w/w) of either beer bagasse (BB) or its lignocellulosic-rich fibers (LF), obtained by subcritical water extraction at temperatures between 110 and 170 °C, were incorporated into starch matrices. Elastic modulus and tensile strength values increased by up to eight-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively, compared to the control film. The incorporation of BB or LF significantly enhanced the mechanical resistance of the films. In general, the increment in the filler:polymer ratio significantly increased the EM values (p < 0.05), while decreasing the stretchability of the films around 80–85%, regardless of the type of filler. This effect suggests a good interfacial adhesion between the fillers and the polymeric matrix, as observed by FESEM. The biocomposite films exhibited a dark reddish appearance, reduced transparency, light blocking barrier capacity and remarkable antioxidant activity due to the presence of phenolic compounds in the fibers. The water vapor and oxygen barrier properties were better preserved when using the more purified LF obtained at 170 °C. Overall, starch films reinforced with beer bagasse fractions showed strong potential for the development of biodegradable food packaging materials. Full article
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27 pages, 2110 KiB  
Review
Curcumin-Loaded Drug Delivery Systems for Acute and Chronic Wound Management: A Review
by Xiaoxuan Deng, Jithendra Ratnayake and Azam Ali
Bioengineering 2025, 12(8), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12080860 - 11 Aug 2025
Viewed by 659
Abstract
Wound healing is a physiological process including haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. Acute wounds typically follow a predictable healing process, whereas chronic wounds cause prolonged inflammation and infection, failing to progress through typical healing phases and presenting significant clinical challenges. A combination of [...] Read more.
Wound healing is a physiological process including haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. Acute wounds typically follow a predictable healing process, whereas chronic wounds cause prolonged inflammation and infection, failing to progress through typical healing phases and presenting significant clinical challenges. A combination of wound care techniques and therapeutic agents is required to manage chronic wounds effectively. Curcumin is a bioactive compound derived from Curcuma longa and has gained attention for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. The first part of this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the physiology of wound healing, focusing on the pathophysiology and management of acute and chronic wounds, followed by the biological activity of curcumin in wound healing, emphasising its impact on promoting tissue repair. Finally, this review explores curcumin-loaded dressings, such as hydrogels, nanofibrous membranes, polymeric micelles, and films, offering controlled drug release and targeted curcumin delivery to enhance wound healing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Wound Repair and Regeneration)
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19 pages, 2087 KiB  
Article
Kinematic Monitoring of the Thorax During the Respiratory Cycle Using a Biopolymer-Based Strain Sensor: A Chitosan–Glycerol–Graphite Composite
by María Claudia Rivas Ebner, Emmanuel Ackah, Seong-Wan Kim, Young-Seek Seok and Seung Ho Choi
Biosensors 2025, 15(8), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15080523 - 9 Aug 2025
Viewed by 384
Abstract
This study presents the development and the mechanical and clinical characterization of a flexible biodegradable chitosan–glycerol–graphite composite strain sensor for real-time respiratory monitoring, where the main material, chitosan, is derived and extracted from Tenebrio Molitor larvae shells. Chitosan was extracted using a sustainable, [...] Read more.
This study presents the development and the mechanical and clinical characterization of a flexible biodegradable chitosan–glycerol–graphite composite strain sensor for real-time respiratory monitoring, where the main material, chitosan, is derived and extracted from Tenebrio Molitor larvae shells. Chitosan was extracted using a sustainable, low-impact protocol and processed into a stretchable and flexible film through glycerol plasticization and graphite integration, forming a conductive biocomposite. The sensor, fabricated in a straight-line geometry to ensure uniform strain distribution and signal stability, was evaluated for its mechanical and electrical performance under cyclic loading. Results demonstrate linearity, repeatability, and responsiveness to strain variations in the stain sensor during mechanical characterization and performance, ranging from 1 to 15%, with minimal hysteresis and fast recovery times. The device reliably captured respiratory cycles during normal breathing across three different areas of measurement: the sternum, lower ribs, and diaphragm. The strain sensor also identified distinct breathing patterns, including eupnea, tachypnea, bradypnea, apnea, and Kussmaul respiration, showing the capability to sense respiratory cycles during pathological situations. Compared to conventional monitoring systems, the sensor offers superior skin conformity, better adhesion, comfort, and improved signal quality without the need for invasive procedures or complex instrumentation. Its low-cost, biocompatible design holds strong potential for wearable healthcare applications, particularly in continuous respiratory tracking, sleep disorder diagnostics, and home-based patient monitoring. Future work will focus on wireless integration, environmental durability, and clinical validation. Full article
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22 pages, 3957 KiB  
Review
Vapor-Deposited Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells from Fundamentals to Scalable Commercial Pathways
by Padmini Pandey and Dong-Won Kang
Electronics 2025, 14(16), 3171; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14163171 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
Inorganic halide perovskites have garnered significant attention as promising candidates for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications, owing to their enhanced thermal and chemical stability relative to hybrid perovskite materials. This review synthesizes recent progress in vapor-phase deposition methodologies, such as co-evaporation, close space sublimation [...] Read more.
Inorganic halide perovskites have garnered significant attention as promising candidates for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications, owing to their enhanced thermal and chemical stability relative to hybrid perovskite materials. This review synthesizes recent progress in vapor-phase deposition methodologies, such as co-evaporation, close space sublimation (CSS), continuous flash sublimation (CFS), and chemical vapor deposition (CVD), which enable the precise modulation of film composition and morphology. Advances in material systems, including the stabilization of CsPbI2Br, the introduction of tin-doped phases, and the investigation of lead-free double perovskites like Cs2AgSbI6 and Cs2AgBiCl6, are critically evaluated with respect to their impact on device performance. The incorporation of these materials into photovoltaic devices and tandem configurations is explored, with particular emphasis on improvements in power conversion efficiency and operational durability. Furthermore, interface engineering approaches tailored to vacuum-deposited films—such as defect passivation and energy-level alignment—are examined in detail. The potential for scalable manufacturing is assessed through simulation analyses, throughput modeling, and pilot-scale demonstrations, underscoring the feasibility of industrial-scale production. By offering a comprehensive overview of these advancements, this review provides valuable perspectives on the current landscape and prospective trajectories of vapor-deposited inorganic perovskite technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Properties for Solar Cell Application)
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23 pages, 6102 KiB  
Article
The Anti-Glioblastoma Effects of Novel Liposomal Formulations Loaded with Cannabidiol, Celecoxib, and 2,5-Dimethylcelecoxib
by Anna Rybarczyk, Aleksandra Majchrzak-Celińska, Ludwika Piwowarczyk and Violetta Krajka-Kuźniak
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081031 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 352
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) therapy efficacy remains limited due to the poor blood-brain barrier-penetrating power of drugs as well as dysregulated cellular signaling pathways of tumor cells leading to drug resistance. Novel drug delivery systems such as liposome-based nanoformulations improve the bioavailability [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) therapy efficacy remains limited due to the poor blood-brain barrier-penetrating power of drugs as well as dysregulated cellular signaling pathways of tumor cells leading to drug resistance. Novel drug delivery systems such as liposome-based nanoformulations improve the bioavailability and stability of water-insoluble drugs, while co-delivery of two anti-cancer compounds can further increase their anti-tumor effectiveness due to synergistic effects. Thus, the aim of this study was to obtain liposomal nanoformulations encapsulating cannabidiol (CBD), celecoxib (CELE), and 2,5-dimethylcelecoxib (DMC) and their combinations and to verify their anti-GBM properties. Methods: Five liposomal nanoformulations were obtained using a modified thin-film hydration technique. Two GBM cell lines and non-cancerous astrocytes were used for the biological evaluation of the tested nanoformulations. The cytotoxicity experiments were performed using the MTT assay, whereas flow cytometry-based analysis assessed the effect of the liposomes on apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, and oxidative stress. To determine the impact of the tested nanoformulations on Nrf2, Wnt/β-catenin, and NF-κB signaling pathways, qPCR, Western blot and ELISA techniques were used. Results: The findings of this study demonstrate that liposomal nanoformulations containing CBD, CELE, and DMC exhibit significant anti-GBM activity, particularly through the induction of apoptosis and oxidative stress and modulation of the key signaling pathways. Although no clear synergistic/additive effects were observed between CBD and CELE or DMC when co-loaded in nanoformulations, the combination of CBD and CELE effectively suppressed Wnt/β-catenin and NF-κB signaling and activated the Nrf2 pathway. These results support the therapeutic potential of liposome-based co-delivery of CBD and CELE in GBM therapy. However, further in vivo studies are warranted to determine these nanoformulations’ translational relevance and clinical applicability. Full article
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