Last 10 IPCB CT publications on ISI journals
1) Binary and Ternary Nanocomposite Membranes for Gas Separation Incorporating Finely Dispersed Carbon Nanotubes in a Polyether Block Amide Matrix
D.Vuono, G.Clarizia, D.Zampino, P.Bernardo
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17030314
This work addressed the fine dispersion of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) in a polymer matrix to obtain Mixed Matrix Membranes (MMMs) suited for gas separation. Not-purified MWCNTs were effectively loaded within a polyether block amide (Pebax®2533) matrix, up to 24 wt%, using ultrasonication as well as a third component (polysorbate) in the dope solution. The obtained flexible thin films were investigated in terms of morphology, thermal properties, characterized by SEM, FT-IR, DSC, TGA, and gas permeation tests. The response to temperature variations of gas permeation through these nanocomposite specimens was also investigated in the temperature range of 25?55 °C. Defect-free samples were successfully obtained even at a significantly high loading of CNTs (up to 18 wt%), without a pre-treatment of the fillers. A remarkable enhancement of gas permeability upon the nanocarbons loading was reached, with a threshold value at a loading of ca. 7 wt%. The addition of polysorbates in the ternary MMMs further improves the dispersion of the filler, enhancing also the permselectivity of the membrane.
2) Cyclodextrin-based iodophors with high iodine retention in solid state and in dilute solutions
F.Spitaleri, S.Dattilo, D.Aleo, M.G.Saita, A.Patti
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122969
Iodine is a broad-spectrum antiseptic with the advantage of not inducing bacterial resistance, but its use is limited by volatility. This issue can be overcome by using "iodophors", which are molecular systems able to retain iodine and provide its sustained release. Cyclodextrins have proven effective in stabilizing iodine in solution through the formation of complexes, the preparation of which in solid form could offer additional benefits in terms of handling and storage. A series of cyclodextrins (CD) were tested for their ability to form solid complexes with iodine and it was found that the addition of potassium iodide in the solid-state preparation of the complexes significantly increases both iodine incorporation and long-term stability compared to the solids obtained without added potassium iodide. Dilute aqueous solutions of the obtained complexes were monitored for their iodine content in different conditions and excellent stability was observed in some cases. Furthermore, these cyclodextrin-iodine complexes showed no cytotoxic effects on human corneal epithelial cells (HCE-2) while displayed very high antimicrobial (against
Staphylococcus epidermis) and antiviral (against Human adenovirus 5) activities. These findings highlight the potential of cyclodextrins as a versatile platform for the development of solid iodophors as an alternative to the traditional povidone-iodide formulation.
3) Calixarene-based cryopolymers: a versatile smart materials platform suitable for both air and water remediation
V.Giglio, S.Dattilo, G.Gambera, P.Riccobene, F.Cunsolo, T.Mecca
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2025.121736
Environmental pollution caused by the release of hazardous chemicals into air and water poses serious risks to ecosystems, public health, and infrastructure. Addressing these challenges requires innovative materials capable of both detecting and removing diverse pollutants. However, most current materials are designed to target either air or water pollutants, leaving a gap in multifunctional solutions. This study presents a pioneering approach to bridge this gap by introducing two novel calixarene-based cryopolymers, combining the macroporous structure of cryogels with the recognition capabilities of calixarenes. The synthesized materials were found to be valuable tools for detecting and capturing pollutants in both air and water, taking advances from a dual mechanism of absorption: by chelation through the acidic functionality inserted on calixarene scaffold and by a host-guest complex formation with calixarene cavity through cation-p interactions. As an additional advantageous property, they have the ability to detect the presence of NO
2 in the air through an evident color change. These multifunctional materials represent a breakthrough in environmental remediation, offering a single platform for addressing pollutants in air and water, marking a step forward in pollution management technologies.
4) From red to green: Smart thiol-porphyrin cryogels combining high mercury efficiency removal and visual material saturation alert
G.Proietto Salanitri, T.Mecca, S.Carroccio, D.Caretti, F.Cunsolo, G.Impellizzeri, S.Dattilo
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2025.113982
A novel and smart methacrylic acid (MAA) based macroporous material functionalized with thiol groups (-SH) was developed to achieve highly efficient and selective removal of toxic Hg(II) ions from water. With the aim of visualizing the saturation of the active sites of the material in real-time, a porphyrin-based co-monomer was synthesized and included (only 0.25 % w/w) as a part of the co-polymeric structure. The porphyrin ring can capture Hg(II) ions, causing a color change from red to green. However, due to the higher affinity of Hg(II) towards thiol groups, the porphyrin will be able to interact with free Hg(II) only when the adjacent thiols are no longer available and, therefore, close to the complete saturation of -SH sites. The color shift alerts that the material is approaching saturation, hence, a regeneration step is necessary for subsequent adsorption cycles. The typical interconnected macroporous (3?23 µm) network of the cryogel allows fast water diffusion and easy access to the -SH and PORPH sites. Such design achieves an exceptional Hg(II) adsorption capacity (Q
max > 1200 mg/g), calculated from the Langmuir isotherm model. The synthesized material shows high selectivity towards Hg(II) (S% > 95%) in a solution with the simultaneous presence of other metal cation species. The kinetics of Hg(II) capture, pH behavior, material dosage, and regeneration cycles were tested, highlighting its potential applicability across a broad pH range and its reusability for at least five cycles. These combined features underscore the superior performance of this advanced material compared to current state-of-the-art competitors.
5) Solar-promoted photo-thermal CO2 methanation on SiC/hydrotalcites-derived catalysts
R.Fiorenza, L.Calantropo, E.La Greca, L.F.Liotta, A.Gulino, A.Ferlazzo, M.G.Musumeci, G.Proietto Salanitri, S.Carroccio, G.Dativo, M.T.Armeli Iapichino, S.Scirè, G.Impellizzeri
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cattod.2024.115182
The photothermo-catalysis is a combined multicatalytic approach that allows to overcome some drawbacks of the respective single catalytic processes as the thermocatalysis and the photocatalysis. In this work, to efficiently exploit the potentiality of the solar photothermo-catalysis, SiC/hydrotalcites-derived catalysts were prepared with a simple hydrothermal method to exploit both the thermocatalytic properties of the formed multifunctional mixed oxides and the photo(thermo)-catalytic features of the silicon carbide. Two different hydrotalcite-derived catalysts were prepared, one with Mg-Co ions and another with Zn-Co ions. This latter sample, after the addition of SiC, showed the best performance in the CO
2 methanation reaction, with a CH
4 selectivity maximum of 71 % in the photothermal conditions at 250 °C, strongly improving the performance of the thermocatalysis (36 % at 350 °C). The presence of SiC permitted to increase the harvesting of the solar light, to modify the basic sites of the hydrotalcite-derived catalysts, allowing an efficient CO
2 activation, and to generate self-heating effects that enhanced the photo-driven thermocatalysis. Moreover, the formation of photocatalytic active species as the ZnO and the ZnAl
2O
4 after the calcination of the corresponding hydrotalcite precursor, led to exploit additional photocatalytic contributions to further increase the catalytic activity in the photo-promoted thermocatalytic CO
2 conversion into methane. The high versatility and the several synergisms generated by the application of this hybrid catalysis with these peculiar SiC/hydrotalcite-derived catalysts can be a sustainable strategy to efficiently valorise the carbon dioxide.
6) Advanced cyclodextrin-based multiloaded hydrogels for targeted drug delivery in the fight against vaginal fungal infections
E.G.Tomarchio, C.Zagni, S.Dattilo, L.Vitiello, V.Fuochi, S.Furnari, P.M.Furneri, G.Granata, S.Carroccio, A.Rescifina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2025.123412
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) affects a significant proportion of women during reproductive years, with recurrent infections posing a considerable therapeutic challenge. Conventional treatments, such as clotrimazole (Clo) administration, often require frequent application due to low aqueous solubility and rapid clearance.
To address these issues, a novel hydrogel-based drug delivery system (DDS) was developed, combining β-cyclodextrins (β-CD) for Clo encapsulation and halloysite nanotubes (HNT) for curcumin (Cur) delivery. A novel hydrogel-based drug delivery system (DDS) was developed to address these limitations to enhance drug solubility, retention, and localized release. β-CD enhanced Clo’s solubility and prolonged antifungal effects, while HNT ensured sustained Cur release for up to 5 days, offering anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits. The hydrogel matrix improved drug retention and stability, with HNT reinforcing its mechanical properties for durability under moderate strain. Microbiological tests demonstrated potent antifungal activity, with inhibition zones of 39.2 ± 0.2 mm, 39.1 ± 0.2 mm, and 42.1 ± 0.2 mm against
C. krusei,
C. albicans 10231, and
C. parapsilosis 22019, respectively. Drug release studies revealed a rapid burst release of Clo within the first 30 min, followed by prolonged Cur release. This dual-action hydrogel targets fungal infections, oxidative stress, and inflammation, providing enhanced therapeutic outcomes and improved patient adherence.
7) Preservation mechanisms of jute fibers derived cellulose nanofibril composite films for banana storage: effects of chemical composition and particle size
W.Yu, L.Luo, Z. Tang, P.Rizzarelli, G.Santagata, Z.Tan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10570-025-06481-3
Nanocellulose is emerging as a biodegradable alternative to synthetic plastics in food packaging, but the preservation mechanisms of nanocellulose composite films have not yet been understood clearly enough. In this study, the preservation mechanism of jute fibers derived cellulose nanofibril (CNF) coatings for banana storage was explored in terms of both chemical composition and particle size. In terms of chemical composition, the CNF coating prepared from raw jute fibers was most suited for use in banana storage, mainly due to its higher antioxidant and UV protection properties. In terms of particle size, the CNF coating homogenized for 5 passes achieved the best performance in preserving the freshness of bananas, mainly owing to its better oxygen barrier properties. The possible preservation mechanism of jute fibers derived CNF composite films for banana storage is related to the formation of a highly dense structure attributed to the strong hydrogen bonding between cellulose molecules and the plugging effect of noncellulosic components, offering excellent antioxidant, UV resistance, and oxygen barrier properties. This paper provides scientific guidance for the design of nanocellulose composite films for food packaging.
8) Glycosylation Pathways Targeted by Deregulated miRNAs in Autism Spectrum Disorder
F.Mirabella, M.Randazzo, A.Rinaldi, F.Pettinato, R.Rizzo, L.Sturiale, R.Barone
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26020783
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex condition with a multifactorial aetiology including both genetic and epigenetic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in ASD and may influence metabolic pathways. Glycosylation (the glycoconjugate synthesis pathway) is a necessary process for the optimal development of the central nervous system (CNS). Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation (CDGs) (CDGs) are linked to over 180 genes and are predominantly associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) including ASD. From a literature search, we considered 64 miRNAs consistently deregulated in ASD patients (ASD-miRNAs). Computational tools, including DIANA-miRPath v3.0 and TarBase v8, were employed to investigate the potential involvement of ASD-miRNAs in glycosylation pathways. A regulatory network constructed through miRNet 2.0 revealed the involvement of these miRNAs in targeting genes linked to glycosylation. Protein functions were further validated through the Human Protein Atlas. A total of twenty-five ASD-miRNAs were identified, including nine miRNAs that were differentially expressed in cells or brain tissue in ASD patients and associated with glycosylation pathways, specifically protein N- and O-glycosylation and glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis (heparan sulfate). A number of CDG genes and/or ASD-risk genes, including DOLK, GALNT2, and EXT1, were identified as targets, along with validated interactions involving four key miRNAs (hsa-miR-423-5p, hsa-miR-30c-5p, hsa-miR-195-5p, and hsa-miR-132-5p). B4GALT1, an ASD susceptibility gene, emerged as a central regulatory hub, reinforcing the link between glycosylation and ASD. In sum, the evidence presented here supports the hypothesis that ASD-miRNAs mediate the epigenetic regulation of glycosylation, thus unveiling possible novel patho-mechanisms underlying ASD.
9) Chemical Recycling of Bio-Based Epoxy Matrices Based on Precursors Derived from Waste Flour: Recycled Polymers Characterization
L.Saitta, S.Dattilo, G.Rizzo, C.Tosto, I.Blanco, F.Ferrari, G.A.Carallo, F.Cafaro, A.Greco, G.Cicala
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17030335
This study aims to investigate the chemical recycling of two different fully recyclable bio-based epoxy matrices based on epoxidized precursors derived from waste flour. The key for their recyclability relies on the use of a cleavable hardener. In fact, the latter contains a ketal group in its chemical structure, which is cleavable in mild acetic conditions, so allowing for the breakage of the cured network. The recyclability was successfully assessed for both the two investigated formulations, with a recycling process yield ranging from 80 up to 85%. The recycled polymers presented a Tg up to 69.0 ± 0.4 °C, determined by mean of DMA and DSC analysis. Next, the TGA revealed that the thermal decomposition of the specimens primarily occurred around 320 °C and attributed to the breaking of C-O and C-N bonds in cross-linked networks. In the end, the chemical characterizations were carried out by mean of Py-GC/MS, MALDI-TOF-MS and FT-IR ATR. In fact, these analyses allowed for investigating how the recycled polymer’s structure changed, starting from the initial epoxy systems. These insights on their chemical structure could further allow for identifying re-use strategies in accordance with a circular economy approach.
10) Designing a monolithic photo-Fenton catalyst using a fungal hydroxypyrone metabolic derivative
E.G.Tomarchio, V.Giglio, C.Zagni, S.Carroccio, V.Paratore, G.G.Condorelli, G.Floresta, S.Dattilo, A.Rescifina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtchem.2025.102539
In response to the growing demand for eco-friendly materials, derived from natural compounds for environmental applications, we developed an innovative catalyst based on kojic acid, a bio-derived metabolite produced by Aspergillus species. This work involved functionalizing the hydroxypyrone scaffold with an acrylic group, yielding a porous organic polymer (C-HPO) to remove hazardous metal. The resulting C-HPO exhibited exceptional chelating capacity for heavy metal ions, including mercury (Hg), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe), highlighting its potential for environmental remediation and resource recovery. Furthermore, by complexing C-HPO with iron ions, we created a photo-Fenton-like system (C-HPO/Fe), enabling its use in advanced oxidation processes. UV?Vis absorption analyses revealed that the C-HPO/Fe system efficiently degrades various emerging contaminants, including lomefloxacin (LOM), doxycycline (DOX), desethyl atrazine (DEA), and methylene blue (MB). Remarkably, as little as 1 g/L of the C-HPO/Fe catalyst achieved complete degradation of these pollutants, highlighting its high catalytic efficiency and promise for sustainable contaminant treatment.
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