Abstract:

The main limitation of high-temperature drawing approach for tailoring crystallization and molecular orientation of poly-l-lactide (PLLA) toward ultrasound- active piezoelectric structures is set by intrinsic properties of the processed polymer, including low melting / softening elasticity and slow crystallization kinetics. Here we found that application of different contacting layers, including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (as Teflon and Teflon S), cellulose (paper) or polyimine (Kapton) deposited at the surface of PLLA, significantly affects the drawing process and tailors its oriented crystallization and molecular chain orientation. Consequently the contacting layers contribute to piezoelectric properties of PLLA, affect their activation by ultrasound and generated electro-signal. Human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) grown stimulated on these surfaces are shown to receive and respond to the transferred stimuli by activation of the cytoskeleton and directional migration. The high-temperature drawing approach with contacting layers is simple, solvent-free and economically continent way for broadening limitations of classical high-temperature drawing which opens new possibilities for further tailoring piezoelectricity of organic piezoelectrics.

Abstract: African catfish (Clarias gariepinus, AC) is one of the most widely farmed freshwater fish species in Central Europe. Processing operations generate up to 55% by-products (BPs), predominantly carcasses rich in proteins, lipids, and minerals. This study develops a comprehensive valorization process for ACBPs to recover gelatin, protein hydrolysate, fish oil, and pigments. The processing protocol comprised sequential washing, oil extraction, demineralization, and biotechnological treatment to cleave the collagen quaternary structure. A two-factor experimental design was employed to optimize the processing conditions. The factors included the extraction temperatures of the first (35–45 °C) and second fraction (50–60 °C). The integrated process yielded 18.2 ± 1.2% fish oil, 9.8 ± 2.1 % protein hydrolysate, 1.7 ± 0.7 % pigment extract, and 25.3–37.8 % gelatin. Optimal conditions (35 °C/60 °C) produced gelatin with gel strength of 168.8 ± 3.6 Bloom, dynamic viscosity of 2.48 ± 0.02 mPa·s, yield of 34.76 ± 1.95 %. Life cycle assessment (LCA) identified two primary environmental hotspots: water consumption and energy demand. This near-zero-waste biorefinery demonstrates the potential for comprehensive valorization of aquaculture BPs into multiple value-added bioproducts.

Abstract: The development of non-noble metal catalysts provides a cost-effective and sustainable route for glucose oxidation to gluconic acid. In this study, a series of catalysts based on inexpensive transition metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Fe) and/or Au were synthesized using siliceous supports (SiO₂ and MCM-41) and systematically evaluated. The aim was to partially or fully replace noble metals with lower-cost alternatives, while maintaining high catalytic performance. Comprehensive characterization—including ICP-AES for composition, N₂ adsorption–desorption for porosity, XRD for structure, H₂-TPR for reducibility, and NH₃-TPD for acidity—was conducted to establish structure–property relationships. Among the tested catalysts, Ni- and Fe-based systems exhibited superior stability, with NiO/SiO₂ achieving gluconic acid yields comparable to Au. The bimetallic Au–Ni/SiO₂ catalyst displayed enhanced metal–support interactions and minimal leaching (< 2 %), while Au–Fe/SiO₂ improved selectivity, yielding up to 23 % gluconic acid, surpassing 5Fe/SiO₂ (18 %) and 0.3Au/SiO₂ (15 %), albeit with lower stability. These results highlight the potential of low-cost transition-metal and bimetallic catalysts as efficient and eco-nomically viable systems for selective glucose oxidation, providing insights for rational catalyst design in sustainable carbohydrate valorization.

Abstract: This paper reconstructs mykoholz, a mid-20th-century East German, white-rot–mediated bio-modification of solid hardwood, as a missing link in fungal materials engineering. From patents, factory records, declassified reports, and recent literature, we recover process parameters (end-grain inoculation; 3-4 mo incubation in controlled vaults; staged drying/impregnation) and performance outcomes (75-90% density reduction, high porosity, stress relief) enabling uses from pencils to glass-molding and acoustic parts. We benchmark mykoholz against modern mycelium-based composites (MBCs) across substrate, process control, mechanics, energy, scalability, and environmental profile, showing complementarity: mykoholz reconfigures solid wood in situ, whereas MBCs grow moldable composites from lignocellulosic waste. We trace the 1965 industrial decline to quality variance and insufficient climate control, and show how AI-assisted bioprocessing, climate-controlled incubation, and selective delignification could resolve these limits. We propose hybrid fungal systems, and a research agenda covering standardized replication, LCA, acoustic/thermal benchmarks, and pilot-scale automation, positioning mykoholz as low-energy circular bioengineering with actionable principles for scalable, eco-compatible materials.

Abstract: Electrospinning is a versatile technique for fabricating nanofibrous scaffolds that mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM), offering a biomimetic environment for tissue engineering applications. This study investigates the influence of key processing parameters, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) concentration, flow rate, applied voltage, and needle diameter, on fiber formation and morphology. Electrospinning using ethanol as solvent was unsuccessful at lower PVP concentrations (40–50% w/v) due to inadequate viscosity and chain entanglement. Increasing the concentration to 60% (w/v), with a flow rate of 1 mL/h and voltage of 26 kV, enabled stable fiber formation using 15G and 18G needles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and ImageJ analysis revealed significant differences in fiber diameter: 1853.90 ± 229 nm for 15G and 647.52 ± 638 nm for 18G, demonstrating the sensitivity of electrospinning to minor parameter variations. These findings underscore the importance of systematic optimization to achieve scaffolds with uniform morphology, high porosity, and interconnected architecture, which are essential for cell attachment, nutrient diffusion, and tissue integration in regenerative medicine.

Abstract: Rapid, sensitive monitoring of fluoroquinolone residues is essential for medicine and the food industry. We report a “turn-on” fluorescent biosensor based on nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (N-CQDs) prepared by a one-pot hydrothermal route using cotton waste as the carbon source and o-phenylenediamine as the nitrogen passivator. The N-CQDs display a quantum yield of 42% and stable photoluminescence. Levofloxacin binds to surface functional groups on the N-CQDs and inhibits photoinduced electron transfer (PET), restoring radiative decay and enhancing fluorescence. The sensor affords an ultralow LOD of 0.55 nM and a linear range of 1.83–40.00 nM with high selectivity against common interferents. The method was successfully applied to pharmaceutical tablet extracts, raw milk, chicken meat, and urine, achieving excellent spike-recovery and precision. This work demonstrates a sustainable, low-cost nanosensor that converts agricultural waste into a high-performance optical biosensing platform for drug-residue screening across clinically and industrially relevant matrices. The approach is readily scalable and compatible with routine fluorescence instrumentation, supporting rapid decision-making in food safety and healthcare settings.

Abstract: Cu-modified ferrites, prepared by solvothermal syntheses, at up to 200 oC, show the presence of copper metal particles, embedded in ferrite nanocrystalline particle agglomerates. Notably, these metallic copper micron sized crystallites are dramatically reduced in size, down to a few tens of nanometers, when part of the copper dopant is replaced by zinc. All materials are magnetic due to the presence of the cubic spinel phase, being ferrimagnetic, with a narrow hysteresis of 6 kOe for the largest particle size copper ferrite material of 15 nm, to superparamagnetic for the zinc-doped, 9-10 nm average particle size ferrite. The oxidant activity of the materials was studied in free-radical oxidation reactions (pH 7.4, physiological and pH 8.5, optimal for the generation of ROS) by the chemiluminescent method with: i) Fenton`s reagent (.OH, .OOH); ii) H2O2; iii) with O2.- radicals. All materials showed moderate inhibitory activities, converted to prooxidant at pH 7.4, except for the largest isolated copper particles containing material, which remained inhibitory. Materials antimicrobial potential was checked on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 via two classical methods namely the spot and well diffusion tests in agar medium. Тhe above tests included also a nanocrystalline CuO, tenorite, as a reference material too. Daphnia magna ecotoxicity test show that all investigated materials are rather toxic and since daphnia are a key component in freshwater ecosystems, the toxicity even at low concentrations may have significant consequences for the ecological balance. This requires careful monitoring and assessment of the possible use or disposal of these nanomaterials in the environment.

Abstract:

Mannans are structurally composed of β-(1→4)-linked mannose units, which are widely distributed in plant cell walls, yeast, and bacterial exopolysaccharides. Mannans have emerged as multipurpose biopolymers with significant industrial and biomedical potential. Celebrated mannans include guar gum, locust bean gum, konjac glucomannan, yeast mannans, and softwood glucomannans. This comprehensive review highlights the sources, structural diversity, extraction methods, physicochemical properties, and functional characteristics. The major bioactivities of mannans, including immunomodulatory, antioxidative, and prebiotic effects, reflect their relevance in biopharmaceutical applications. Moreover, mannans serve as valuable raw materials for developing biodegradable films, hydrogels, and nanocomposites applied in sustainable materials and drug delivery systems. Despite promising applications, challenges related to their large-scale production, standardization, and functional optimization remain to be investigated. Future perspectives focus on integrating advanced biotechnological approaches and chemical modifications to enhance the functional versatility of mannans. Overall, mannans represent a sustainable, multifunctional biopolymer with expanding applications across food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical industries.

Abstract: Bone cements based on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) remain the clinical standard for joint replacement and vertebral augmentation but suffer from several major challenges. These include excessive stiffness compared with cancellous bone, lack of resorption and osteoconductivity, and thermal necrosis during curing. Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) are bioactive and resorbable but tend to exhibit low mechanical strength, poor injectability and brittle fracture.　The work reported herein developed an injectable composite bone cement by combining spherical, porous, sintered β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) particles with a cyanoacrylate adhesive. The β-TCP granules provided bioactivity and a favorable microarchitecture while the cyanoacrylate ensured strong adhesion and rapid setting. Ion substitution with Mg, Na and Si was found to modify the surface acidity of the material while also inhibiting cyanoacrylate polymerization, thereby extending the setting time and lowering the exotherm temperature. This composite exhibited high chemical stability, smooth injectability and early surface reactivity indicative of osteoconductivity. The compressive strength of the material stabilized at approximately 40 MPa and so exceeded that of cancellous bone. This new material also showed ductility, energy absorption and superior impact resistance, although its tensile and fatigue resistance remained limited. Importantly, the composite provided strength comparable to that of PMMA in cemented models during fixation tests and significantly outperformed CPCs in cementless tibial tray fixation experiments. These findings demonstrate that the present β-TCP/cyanoacrylate cement bridges the gap between PMMA and CPCs by combining injectability and mechanical reliability with bioactivity. This cement is therefore a promising next-generation option for minimally invasive osteoporotic fracture treatment and revision arthroplasty.

Abstract: The development of advanced biomaterials for corneal applications requires robust trans-lational platforms that faithfully replicate human characteristics. Porcine corneas are in-creasingly recognized for ophthalmic research. Their unique combination of anatomical similarity, biomechanical comparability, and accessibility make them highly suitable for preclinical evaluation of innovative therapies, bridging the gap between preclinical dis-covery and clinical application. This review outlines the utility of porcine corneal models in validating advanced biomaterials, particularly in ex vivo settings, focusing on current methodologies, while addressing challenges and future directions. We aim to underscore the potential of porcine corneal models to accelerate the translation of next-generation biomaterials into clinically relevant corneal therapies.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: In recent years, short DNA duplexes have been studied as promising self-assembling systems and versatile building blocks for DNA-based nanotechnologies. Numerical simulations of colloidal systems incorporating such components require, as an input ingredient, simplified but reliable force-fields that capture the essential features of duplex-duplex interactions. Methods: We employed the coarse-grained SIRAH force field under an implicit solvent approximation to in-vestigate the interactions between two short, rigid double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) duplexes. Results: Using this realistic coarse-grained model, we obtained detailed in-sights into how the force field depends on the relative positions, orientations and salt concentration. Calculations were performed for duplexes of 8 and 20 base pairs in length. Conclusions: Our findings represent a foundational step toward the systematic development of simplified, yet qualitatively accurate, model potentials for DNA-based colloidal systems. Beyond nanotechnology, the short-range interaction features cap-tured here are also relevant to biological contexts, including chromatin compaction, homologous recombination, and DNA repair.

Abstract: Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), hydroxyapatite (HA), and chitosan have been extensively utilized in the fields of bone regeneration because of their excellent biocompatibility. This study investigated the effect of chitosan concentrations and gamma irradiation on the physicochemical and mechanical properties of porous composites comprised of surface-modified UHMWPE, HA, and chitosan. A hot press method using sodium chloride as a porogen was successfully used to prepare the porous UHMWPE composites. Functional group analysis using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and water contact angle measurement revealed that the composites were modified due to oxidation in the UHWMPE and chitosan structures. Mechanical testing analyses demonstrated that the compressive strength values of the composites are similar to those reported for cancellous bone. The addition of chitosan significantly reduced the composite's stiffness and strength (p < 0.05), while gamma-irradiation up to 50 kGy had no significant effect (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that gamma-irradiation can be utilized to sterilize the composites without affecting their mechanical properties. Scanning electron microscope images revealed the pore interconnectivity and the successful integration of the components in the composites. These findings suggest that the composite has the potential to be used in bone regeneration.

Abstract: Synthesis of nanoparticles via green environmentally friendly approaches is gaining interest in their potential advantage over physico-chemical approaches. Herein, we explored the potential of lignin extracted from black liquor during isolation of cellulose from Parthenium Hysterophorus as a reducing and capping agent to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesis process was optimized by varying the reaction time, temperature, the concentration of silver nitrate (AgNO3) and LMwLg. The optimum parameters were 60°C, 140 mins, 0.1 M AgNO3, and 0.4% w/v LMwLg. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. From the results obtained, the AgNPs showed a SPR peak at 436 nm. The TEM showed that the nanoparticles were monodispersed and spherical with a mean size of 20.81 nm. From XRD results, AgNPs were of crystalline structure with an average particle size of 20.1 nm. The EDX analysis confirmed that the nanoparticles were majorly composed of silver. These findings highlight the potential of LMwLg as a green reducing and capping agent in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles, offering a promising alternative to conventional chemical synthesis methods for silver synthesis.

Abstract: Zein (ZP) is the major storage protein of corn (maize). It is safe, biodegradable, edible, and characterized by unique amphiphilic and self-assembly properties. These proper-ties were exploited to prepare ZP/Soybean Oil (SO) filled microcapsules by ultra-sound-assisted emulsification of oil in water (o/w) solutions under optimal experi-mental conditions. The morphology and stability of o/w ZP/SO microcapsules were characterized by optical spectroscopy (electronic circular dichroism, fluorescence), dynamic light scattering, and bright-field, laser confocal fluorescence and scanning electron microscopies. It is shown that ZP, due to its unique amphiphilic properties, forms a stable outer layer that protects the inner oily phase by diffusion of the confined compounds. Proof-of-principle studies on the inclusion and release of Curcumin, a very active anti-inflammatory and nutraceutical substance, from ZP/SO microcapsules under temperature and pH stimuli are also reported.

Abstract: Hydrogel films have emerged as versatile platforms in biomedical engineering due to their unique physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and adaptability to diverse therapeutic needs. This review provides a comprehensive overview of hydrogel film materials, including natural biopolymers, synthetic polymers, and multifunctional composites, highlighting their structural and functional diversity. We examine key fabrication techniques—ranging from solvent casting and photopolymerization to advanced methods like microfluidics and 3D printing—and discuss how these influence film architecture and performance. The biomedical applications of hydrogel films span wound healing, drug delivery, tissue engineering, ophthalmology, and implantable biosensors, with recent innovations enabling stimuli-responsive behavior and integration with wearable electronics. Despite their promise, challenges remain in mechanical durability, sterilization, storage stability, regulatory approval, and scalable manufacturing. We conclude by exploring future directions, including AI-guided design, sustainable materials, and personalized hydrogel systems, emphasizing the need for translational research to bridge laboratory advances with clinical implementation.

Abstract: Arthroscopic shoulder surgery has undergone significant evolution over the past decades, particularly in the materials used for suture anchors. The transition from metallic to bioabsorbable polymer anchors has revolutionized soft tissue-to-bone repair procedures, offering distinct advantages in terms of biocompatibility, imaging compatibility, and reduced complications. This comprehensive review examines the current state-of-the-art in anchor polymers used in arthroscopic shoulder surgery, including bioabsorbable polymers such as polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), and their biocomposite formula-tions with beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and calcium sulfate (CS). Additionally, we explore the role of biostable polymers like polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and emerging technologies in anchor design. The review synthesizes clinical outcomes, degradation kinetics, biocompatibility profiles, and mechanical properties of various anchor polymer systems. We also discuss the challenges associated with each mate-rial type, including osteolysis, cyst formation, premature degradation, and poor os-seointegration. Recent advances in biocomposite anchors demonstrate promising solutions to address these limitations, offering controlled degradation rates and en-hanced osteoconductivity. This review provides clinicians and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of anchor polymer technologies, their clinical appli-cations, and future directions in arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

Abstract: Thermoplastic starch (TPS) can be a sustainable alternative to petrochemical plastics for flexible packaging, especially in rainforests and tropical regions where native starch sources such as cassava are abundant. However, one problem preventing TPS packaging from widespread use is its susceptibility to moisture. This study evaluated TPS formulations based on Amazonian cassava starch reinforced with plantain leaf fibers, beeswax, and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) particles. The plastic compounds were extruded to obtain pellets and then films at 120-130 °C. The resulting films were then cut and heat-sealed to obtain flexible packaging. Different properties of the TPS packages were evaluated, such as mechanical strength, water vapor transmission (WVTR), color, infrared spectrum (FT-IR), and moisture adsorption. The results showed that the formulation with beeswax (2 % w/w), plantain leaves powder (1 % w/w), and LDPE powder (2 % w/w) had a higher tensile strength (5.99 MPa) and moisture barrier (WVTR = 366.6 g m-2 d-1) compared to the control formulation only with plasticizers (glycerol and water) but without reinforcements (0.48 MPa and 1486.6 g m-2 d-1, respectively). Film with only beeswax (4 % w/w) and plantain leaves powder (2.5 % w/w) had a tensile strength = 5.53 MPa and WVTR = 716.8 g m-2 d-1, although higher moisture adsorption compared to the film with LDPE. In both cases, homogeneous and heat-sealable bags were obtained. The reinforced TPS films can be used to reduce the environmental impact generated by single-use packaging applications, especially in food commercialization.

Abstract: The sustainable conversion of biogenic waste into high-value materials presents a promising approach for addressing environmental and industrial challenges. This work reports an advancement into antioxidant-enriched phosphate minerals derived from green conversion of biogenic calcium carbonates of crustaceans. We demonstrate the effectiveness of Raman technology in controlling conversion using phosphoric acid treatment. The effects of reaction parameters—including acid stoichiometry, granular size distribution, and thermal treatment at 700 °C and 1200 °C—were systematically evaluated. Raman spectroscopy results validated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and SEM-EDX analyses revealed mixed-phase minerals monetite, brushite, whitlockite or hydroxylapatite resepectively. Notably, reducing particle size enhanced conversion efficiency by increasing the reactive surface area, while the use of excess phosphoric acid facilitated conversion to monocalcium phosphate and promoted the degradation of the organic matrix. Thermal treatment further altered the product composition: heating at 700 °C produced a whitlockite-rich phase, whereas treatment at 1200 °C shifted the balance toward hydroxylapatite. The synthesized calcium phosphate compounds, including hydroxylapatite, monocalcium phosphate, whitlockite, and brushite hold significant practical utility in biomedical applications (such as bone grafts and dental implants), agriculture, and industrial processing. Moreover, we have proven that by controlling the reaction parameters the final product composition can be tailored according to the specific needs, a greener approach yields brushite, monetite, or monocalcium phosphate while a more energy demanding process including heating to 1200 0C yields a high purity hydroxylapatite. This research offers a sustainable analytical route for producing high-purity calcium phosphate materials from wasted biomaterials, contributing to both bioeconomy as well as scientific innovation.

Abstract: The increasing generation of residues from agricultural, municipal, industrial, forestry, aquaculture, and other biomass-derived streams presents considerable potential for the recovery of bioresources for advanced biomaterial production. Converting waste into valuable materials is critical for sustainable resource management and mitigating environmental impacts such as methane emissions from landfills. Bioresources from plant, animal, microbial, marine, and algal origins provide versatile feedstocks, whose physical and chemical properties—including moisture content, density, porosity, and elemental composition—determine suitability for applications such as biochar, biopolymers, hydrogels, and nanocomposites. High-moisture plant residues are suitable for biodegradable films and hydrogels, while dense, low-moisture materials such as coconut husks support durable composites and carbon-based products. Animal wastes, including bones, feathers, and offal, supply protein- and mineral-rich feedstocks for hydroxyapatite, scaffolds, and chitin-based materials, whereas marine and algal residues provide collagen, chitosan, and polysaccharides, and microbial biomass offers nutrient-rich substrates for biofertilisers, single-cell proteins, and polymers. Recent advances demonstrate that biowaste valorisation within a circular bioeconomy enables the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates, nanocellulose composites, biochar, activated carbon, hydroxyapatite, and functional materials such as electroactive and stimuli-responsive systems. Biowaste use is challenged by variable feedstocks, high energy needs, and regulatory limits. Using bioresource knowledge with advanced processing enables the development of high-performance biomaterials, minimises environmental impact, and fosters innovation within the circular bioeconomy.

Abstract:

Antarctic microorganisms have developed extraordinary strategies for adaptation. They have also demonstrated the ability to produce various biopolymers in response to environmental stress. The demand for biopolymers is constantly increasing and is expected to grow further. Among the emerging biomaterials, bacterial cellulose (BC) is generating significant interest due to its unique characteristics that distinguish it from plant-based cellulose. BC exhibits higher purity, water-holding capacity, and tensile strength compared to its plant-based counterpart. Furthermore, BC can be obtained through environmentally friendly protocols. Several bacterial strains have already been identified as cellulose producers, including Komagataeibacter xylinus. In this study, a marine bacterial strain named Pseudomonas sp. ef1, isolated from a consortium associated with the Antarctic ciliate Euplotes focardii was tested for cellulose production. We found that this Antarctic Pseudomonas can produce BC in conditions that appear unique to this bacterial strain. Furthermore, the final BC product is structurally different from that obtained from the well-known BC producer Komagataeibacter xylinus. Additionally, a putative cellulose synthase was identified from the Pseudomonas sp. ef1 genome, exhibiting unique characteristics that may account for the unique BC production capability of this Antarctic marine Pseudomonas. The versatility of BC opens numerous applications, including in papermaking, food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical sectors.