Last 10 IPCB CT publications on ISI journals
1) 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.
2) 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.
3) 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.
4) 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.
5) Sustainable biocomposites based on Mater-Bi and grape pomace for a circular economy: Performance evaluation and degradation in soil
V.Titone, M.Rapisarda, L.Pulvirenti, E.Napoli, G.Impallomeni, L.Botta, M.C.Mistretta, P.Rizzarelli
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2024.111091
Biodegradable polymers often exhibit inferior properties and higher cost compared to their fossil-derived counterparts. The addition of plant waste and by-products can improve their performances, providing in the meantime functional activity and reducing their cost. In this work, we summarize the preparation of different biocomposites (BioCs) incorporating two diverse amounts (10 % and 20 %) of grape pomace (GP) in a Mater-Bi (MB) sample. GP, MB as well as BioCs were fully characterized. The influence of addition of GP on the properties and degradation in soil of the biocomposites was evaluated in comparison with the neat MB. However, natural antioxidants and other active compounds from GP could be sensitive to temperature. Thus, GP and MB underwent heat treatment at 180 °C to simulate and induce possible degradation during BioCs processing. GP analysis (particle size 50 μm) showed only a slight decrease of antioxidant potency, despite the heat treatment simulating the BioCs processing.
1H NMR of the MB soluble fraction in CDCl
3 displayed the presence of two polymeric components: polylactide (PLA) and poly(butylene adipate-
co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT). Introduction of GP in the polymer matrix induced a proportional increase of antioxidant property in the BioCs as well as in complex viscosity at low frequencies. Moreover, a slight increase in the elastic modulus was observed with increasing the crystallinity of the samples. Degradation rate in soil, monitored by weight loss, increased with filler content and time. Moreover, NMR showed that, in the recovered sample after 45 days, the composition of PBAT changed, with the terephthalic percentage increased
6) Enhancing mechanical properties of recycled sheet molding compound composites through catalytic and ozone activation
G.Rizzo, S.Dattilo, L.Saitta, C.Tosto, E.Pergolizzi, A.Latteri, G.Cicala
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1002/pc.29411
scraps or end-of-life product (EoL) of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites, such as sheet molding compound (SMC), without gravely impact on energy and costs. However, the resulting material is characterized by a discontinuous bulk, limiting its application to low-value products. In this study, a comprehensive characterization of composites made by fresh unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) and recycled SMC with a content from 10% up to 40% by weight (wt), was carried out. To enhance the chemical interactions between the inert recycled SMC and the fresh UPR, and as consequence their mechanical properties, two different transesterification catalysts, aluminum (III) sec-butoxide and titanium (IV) butoxide at 1.0 wt%, were utilized. To further investigate the interaction between SMC and fresh UPR, an ozone treatment was carried out on SMC before blending and all the composites compared with no-treated reference systems. Among the formulated composites, the one made by 40 wt% of SMC and titanium (IV) butoxide results to be the most performant system with a Tg around 137°C, a modulus of 3.7 GPa and strain at break around 1.42%. These results could innovate the manufacturing of recycled composites with superior mechanical properties, potentially used for applications such as cabinet, panels, or external cladding.
7) Bio-based palladium catalyst in cryogel for cross-coupling reactions
E.G.Tomarchio, C.Zagni, V.Paratore, G.G.Condorelli, S.Carroccio, A.Rescifina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4QM00800F
Biobased catalysts play a crucial role in sustainable chemistry, using natural resources to support eco-friendly processes. While palladium catalysts are essential for various industrial applications, they often pose environmental challenges due to their non-reusability and tendency to degrade. To address these issues, we developed an innovative phenylalanine-based catalyst containing palladium (C-PhebPd) designed for the Suzuki?Miyaura reaction. The natural amino acids, used as monomers, chelate palladium, preventing leaching, unlike other heterogeneous catalysts that use palladium nanoparticles, which can be released over time, leading to catalyst degradation. Such catalyst exhibits outstanding performance in aqueous media at moderate temperatures, facilitating cross-coupling reactions between various aryl halides and arylboronic acids with high yields of up to 99%. The affordable synthetic procedure and C-PhebPd’s stability make it potentially scalable for industrial applications. The robustness of this catalyst was also proved by recyclability tests up to seven cycles. Further investigation into its capabilities could unlock additional insights for various catalytic transformations.
8) Polyvinylimidazole-Based Cryogel as an Efficient Tool for the Capture and Release of Oleuropein in Aqueous Media
V.Giglio, C.Zagni, E.Spina, F.Cunsolo, S.Carroccio
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16162339
A polyvinylimidazole-based cryogel is presented as a pioneering solution for efficient extraction and release of partially water-soluble polyphenols from olive byproducts. Specifically, oleuropein was used as model molecule to evaluate its recovery from water. The material merges the properties of interconnected cryogel structure in adsorbing molecules via fast diffusion flux, with the strong electrostatic interactions acted by imidazole moiety. Such cryogel achieves effective oleuropein binding likely through hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions. Comprehensive assessments of static adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and desorption kinetics underscore the cryogel’s efficacy in oleuropein extraction and release, highlighting its pivotal role in valorizing olive wastewater through sustainable biotechnological applications.
9) Efficient green solvent-free CO2/epoxide cycloaddition catalyzed by a β-cyclodextrin-imidazolium-based ionic liquid
E.G.Tomarchio, C.Zagni, R.Turnaturi, S.Dattilo, V.Patamia, G.Floresta, S.Carroccio, T.Mecca, A.Rescifina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jiec.2024.08.024
The rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO
2) levels significantly contribute to climate change. Converting CO
2 into valuable products offers an attractive strategy to mitigate its environmental impact. Here, we present a highly efficient, solvent-free method for CO
2 fixation into cyclic carbonates using a novel green catalyst, β-cyclodextrin, linked to an imidazolium-based ionic liquid (β-CD-Im
+Br
-). This catalyst facilitates the conversion of various terminal and internal epoxides into cyclic carbonates with exceptional performance. Notably, β-CD-Im
+Br
- achieves up to 98% conversion of styrene oxide to its corresponding carbonate within 24h at 120°C, demonstrating significant activity without needing a co-catalyst. Operating under solvent-free conditions, this method avoids environmentally harmful synthetic pathways by utilizing the hydroxyl groups of cyclodextrins as hydrogen bond donors and employing the bromine counterion to facilitate epoxide ring opening. Mechanistic studies reveal that β-CD-Im
+Br
- enhances catalytic performance by lowering the activation energy of the rate-limiting step through its hydrogen bond acceptor properties. Importantly, the catalyst is both recyclable and reusable, highlighting its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. This approach represents a significant advancement in sustainable chemistry, offering a green alternative for CO
2 fixation.
10) 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.
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