The aim of this study was to characterize the properties of a hydrogel biomaterial as a potential hydrocortisone delivery system for the topical therapy of Psoriasis.

Despite the progressive development of modern therapies for Psoriasis, its overall cure remains impossible. Furthermore, traditional formulations, such as ointments and creams, have significant disadvantages. These products can be greasy and leave undesirable residues on clothes and bedding, as well as be uncomfortable for frequent topical application. Therefore, hydrogel patch-based therapies are a promising alternative to conventional solutions due to their high water content, which can provide proper hydration, as well as a cooling and soothing effect. Moreover, they allow prolonged and controlled release of active substances, which is expected to enhance the therapeutic effect and, at the same time, reduce the cost of therapy.

Hydrocortisone is a synthetic compound with a similar structure to cortisol. Its anti-inflammatory properties result from the inhibition of the release of substances that cause swelling, redness, and pain, as well as the suppression of increased immune activity. Incorporation of hydrocortisone into a hybrid hydrogel biomaterial could be an interesting modification with high potential for implementation as a novel method of relieving disease symptoms.

The obtained hydrogel biomaterial was characterized for its physicochemical, structural, and morphological properties. Additionally, the hydrocortisone release profile and kinetics from the biomaterial were analyzed, degradation studies were performed, and cytotoxicity was evaluated using an advanced 3D model that recreates the structure of Psoriasis-affected skin tissue. The results confirm the high application potential of the hydrogel patch and are a positive indicator for further in vivo studies.

Introduction: The delivery of antiviral agents to ocular tissues presents a significant challenge due to rapid drug clearance and limited bioavailability. Ganciclovir, a potent antiviral drug used for treating viral eye infections, suffers from poor ocular retention. To enhance its residence time and therapeutic efficacy, an ophthalmic nano-gel formulation was developed and optimized using statistical tools.

Methods: A nano-gel loaded with ganciclovir was formulated using a nanoparticulate drug delivery approach. Nanoparticles were prepared via the solvent evaporation method and incorporated into a thermosensitive in situ gel base. A 3² factorial design optimized key formulation parameters such as the concentration of ethyl cellulose and the concentration of polyvinyl alcohol, ensuring an ideal balance between particle size, % of encapsulation efficiency, and % of drug released at 12 hours. Further characterization studies for prepared ganciclovir nanoparticles were conducted including zeta potential and the polydispersity index. The final in situ gel was prepared by simple dispersion of the best-optimized batch of ganciclovir nanoparticles into 18 % w/v poloxamer solution, and this was evaluated by ex vivo permeation studies. Additionally, rheological assessments were performed to evaluate the gel’s residence time.

Results: The optimized formulation exhibited a nanosized drug carrier system with high drug entrapment efficiency and sustained drug release over 12 hours. Rheological studies confirmed its sol-to-gel transition at physiological ocular temperature, ensuring prolonged retention. Ex vivo permeation studies demonstrated enhanced drug permeation compared to conventional formulations. The Draize ocular irritation study in a rabbit model indicated that the final formulation is non-irritant.

Conclusion: The optimized ganciclovir-loaded ophthalmic nano-gel demonstrated improved ocular retention, controlled drug release, and enhanced permeation, making it a promising alternative for treating viral eye infections. The application of statistical optimization ensured formulation robustness, paving the way for further clinical investigations.

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites have emerged as high-performance materials in structural and lightweight engineering applications. However, the need to balance cost, mechanical efficiency, and sustainability has driven interest in hybrid composites integrating natural and synthetic fibers. This study presents a systematic investigation of epoxy-based hybrid laminates reinforced with jute, glass, and carbon fibers in various stacking sequences and ply orientations. A total of six composite configurations were fabricated using the hand lay-up technique, incorporating symmetric and anti-symmetric arrangements. Mechanical characterization was conducted to evaluate tensile strength, flexural strength, tensile modulus, flexural modulus, and break strain. Statistical analysis using ANOVA identified significant differences among the laminate variants, followed by Tukey’s HSD test to establish pairwise comparisons. Furthermore, a multi-criteria decision-making approach combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was employed to rank the composite designs based on their overall mechanical performance. The CG4C configuration was identified as the top-performing laminate, exhibiting superior tensile and flexural properties. Additionally, the inclusion of jute fibers in certain balanced laminate structures notably enhanced the mechanical response while contributing to material sustainability. These findings demonstrate the potential of strategically engineered hybrid composites in applications requiring optimized strength-to-weight ratios and cost-effective performance.

Understanding the crystallization behavior of materials is crucial for controlling their structural and functional properties, particularly in systems exhibiting mesophases such as liquid crystals. In this work, we present an integrated approach that combines polarized light microscopy (PLM) with deep learning to quantitatively analyze the crystallization dynamics of the liquid crystalline compound 9BA4.

We trained a convolutional neural network based on the U-Net architecture to perform semantic segmentation of PLM images, allowing for automatic identification and distinction between crystalline (Cr) and smectic C (SmC) phases observed during non-isothermal cooling. The model generates pixel-wise probability maps for each phase, which are subsequently binarized to compute the degree of crystallization as a function of temperature.

To characterize the crystallization kinetics, a sigmoidal function was fitted to the experimental crystallinity–temperature curves. The inflection point of the fitted function was used to determine the temperature of maximum crystallization rate. This automated workflow significantly reduces subjectivity and manual effort compared to traditional texture analysis methods.

Our results highlight the potential of combining classical optical microscopy techniques with modern deep learning tools to extract quantitative, reproducible insights from complex phase transition phenomena. The proposed methodology can be adapted to other systems showing texture evolution during thermal processing, paving the way toward high-throughput and objective studies of crystallization in soft matter and beyond.

Advanced applications of molecular liquid crystals, such as high-resolution displays for augmented and virtual reality, tunable electro-optical components for high-resolution imaging and space exploration, spatial light modulators for flat optics and structured light generation, lasers, sensors, and smart windows, rely heavily on the development of new mesogenic materials with improved functionalities. Recent advances in molecular engineering and nanotechnology have resulted in virtually infinite possibilities for creating multifunctional mesogenic materials using molecular and nano-dopants, thus benefiting a wide range of tunable liquid crystal devices. As a rule, their tunability is achieved by taking advantage of the electric field-induced reorientation of liquid crystal molecules. This reorientation can be affected by ions always present in molecular liquid crystals. Therefore, developing new ways to control ions in molecular liquid crystals is critical for their existing and emerging applications.

This presentation discusses how nanoparticles can be used to control the concentration of mobile ions in molecular liquid crystals. For a single type of nanoparticle, an elementary model considering interactions between ions and nanoparticles, the possibility of ionic contamination of nanoparticles, and experimental results supporting the model are discussed. The change in the concentration of mobile ions in nematic liquid crystals containing ferroelectric and magnetic nanoparticles leads to the modification of the DC electrical conductivity, which is evaluated using the impedance spectroscopy method. For better control over the DC electrical conductivity of molecular liquid crystals, the simultaneous use of several types of nanoparticles is proposed. This way, it is possible to achieve a nearly three order of magnitude decrease or increase in the DC electrical conductivity of molecular liquid crystals.

Introduction:
The application of 3D-printed polymer composites for temporary dental crowns represents a transformative step in modern restorative dentistry. These innovative materials are specifically engineered to offer optimal physical and mechanical characteristics, with a density of 1.4–1.5 g/cm³, viscosity between 2500 and 6000 MPa·s, and a flexural strength of ≥ 100 MPa. Such parameters ensure not only durability and dimensional stability but also resistance to masticatory stress over extended periods. The growing demand for faster, patient-specific solutions has pushed the development of advanced materials compatible with digital workflows.

Methods:
In evaluating the current state of the art, 3D-printed temporary crowns are increasingly being adopted as reliable alternatives to conventional materials such as PMMA and bis-acrylics. These composites allow for high customization, rapid fabrication, and reduced dependency on traditional manual procedures. Their use is particularly advantageous in cases requiring precision, efficiency, and predictable performance, such as full-arch rehabilitations or temporizations during implant integration phases.

Results:
This technology empowers clinicians to fabricate provisional restorations that are both highly individualized and reproducible. The integration of intraoral scanning, CAD software, and additive manufacturing significantly improves workflow efficiency. Additionally, these solutions enhance esthetics, fit, and function, while reducing chairside time and patient discomfort. The ability to make rapid adjustments or replacements is especially valuable in complex or time-sensitive treatments.

Conclusions:
While the early outcomes of using 3D-printed polymer composites for temporary crowns are highly promising, more longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate factors such as long-term biocompatibility, marginal integrity, and wear resistance. Nonetheless, these materials mark a substantial advancement in digital dentistry, combining precision, efficiency, and customization in a way that aligns with the evolving demands of modern prosthodontic care.

Alginate, a naturally abundant polysaccharide, offers exceptional versatility in functional material design due to its charged backbone and its ability to form ionically crosslinked networks with multivalent cations [1,2]. When combined with gelatin in a glycerol-rich medium, it gives rise to a class of organohydrogels that are not only soft and stretchable, but also responsive, robust, and fully biocompatible.

We harness this platform to engineer multifunctional hydrogels tailored for both sensing and energy-related applications. By tuning the crosslinking chemistry with Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, Fe³⁺, and Zr⁴⁺ ions, we access highly adaptable materials that respond sensitively to mechanical strain (gauge factor > 1.6), temperature (0.19 K^-1), humidity (0.022 RH(%)^-1), and light (up to 9.2 μA/W) while retaining performance over 2500 mechanical cycles. These multiresponsive materials are ideal candidates for next-generation wearable sensors and electronic skins [3].

Building on this concept, we developed a complementary formulation serving as a gel polymer electrolyte for flexible supercapacitors. Through the synergistic interplay of Cu²⁺/Mn²⁺ crosslinking and Li⁺ doping, we modulate a nanoscale polymer structure (via SAXS) to enable high capacitance (up to 591.8 mF/cm²), excellent rate performance, and long-term stability (> 88% over 5000 cycles). This work demonstrates how ionic coordination directly governs electrochemical function and mechanical resilience[4].

Together, these studies showcase a green, modular strategy for designing biopolymer-based systems that seamlessly integrate soft sensing and energy delivery—offering a scalable path toward self-powered, sustainable devices.

[1] Jeong, Y.; Tordi, P.; Tamayo, A.; Han, B.; Bonini, M.; Samorì, P. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2025, e09607. DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202509607

[2] Tordi, P.; Ridi, F.; Samorì, P.; Bonini, M. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2025, 35 (9), 2416390. DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202416390

[3] Tordi, P.; Tamayo, A.; Jeong, Y.; Bonini, M.; Samorì, P. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2024, 34 (52), 2410663. DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202410663

[4] Tordi, P.; Montes-García, V.; Tamayo, A.; Bonini, M.; Samorì, P.; Ciesielski, A. Small. 2025, 2503937. DOI: 10.1002/smll.202503937

Ming-style round-backed armchairs, as a classic Chinese chair design, are renowned for their blend of ergonomics, practicality, and elegance. Although the Chinese armchair furniture industry has made strides in sustainability, further improvements in material selection, manufacturing processes, and supply chain management are still needed to fully support the development of sustainable furniture. Laminated bamboo lumber, as a new sustainable material, is becoming an increasingly popular option for furniture designers in the era of "sustainable design." This research aims to investigate the feasibility and application of laminated bamboo lumber in the design of Chinese armchairs and proposes innovative ideas for optimizing the armchair's structure. First, an empirical study was conducted to comprehensively analyze the structural classification of Ming-style round-backed armchairs and develop a 3D model. Second, an experimental research method was employed to explore the parameters of laminated bamboo lumber for future applications. Additionally, a validation experiment was conducted to compare real-world scenarios with simulations using finite element analysis in ANSYS. The feasibility of using laminated bamboo lumber in furniture design was then evaluated through finite element analysis, focusing on the material’s mechanical properties. Results indicate that laminated bamboo lumber possesses excellent mechanical characteristics suitable for furniture design. Consequently, by applying optimized results, the use of 0.6319 kg of steel was successfully reduced by 23.68% while maintaining the armchair’s stability. This research provides a reference for future computer-assisted and standardized innovative designs of Chinese armchairs. By incorporating computer-assisted design and lightweight optimization, it is possible to save materials and use resources more efficiently, thereby contributing to sustainable development goals in the field of furniture design.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic synovitis. Current therapeutic agents are limited by low bioavailability and multiple adverse effects. Tripterygium glycosides exhibit significant efficacy against RA, but their poor water solubility and pronounced first-pass effect restrict clinical application. To enhance drug delivery efficiency, this study developed a tripterygium glycoside-loaded hydrogel patch based on a transdermal drug delivery system.

The matrix formulation was optimized through single-factor experiments combined with response surface methodology (RSM) to determine the optimal composition. Physicochemical characterization and in vitro drug release studies confirmed that the drug-loaded hydrogel possesses a uniform porous structure, excellent viscoelasticity, and favorable drug release performance. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed that the system reached equilibrium within 500 ps, with a density of approximately 1.5 g/cm³. The diffusion coefficient of tripterygium glycosides was determined as 1.283×10⁻³ Ų/ps. Radial distribution function (RDF) analysis identified potential atomic interaction distances.

In a complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced RA mouse model, the high-dose patch (300 mg/kg·d) significantly reduced the arthritis index ，which is a 69.2% reduction compared to the model group，and suppressed serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β significantly. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining demonstrated attenuation of synovial hyperplasia and inflammatory infiltration.

This study pioneers the integration of tripterygium glycosides with hydrogel patch technology, effectively overcoming limitations of poor water solubility and low bioavailability of its active components. It provides a novel strategy for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine

The production of biomass from the agricultural industry has been studied as a possible solution to different problems in multiple areas. To determine its feasibility, it is essential to evaluate the specific properties of each material. In the present work, a physical, chemical and morphological characterization of mammon (Melicoccus bijugatus) peel was carried out and its potential use in wastewater treatment was determined. The shells were collected from different sales points in the city, washed with distilled water to remove debris, dried for 48 hours in the sun and then crushed. They were then washed again with distilled water and dried in an oven at 50°C for 24 hours. Next, a portion of the biomass was chemically treated with hydrochloric acid (HCl) at 0.5 mol/L concentration. Each sample was morphologically characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with EDS for compositional analysis and color mapping, where a heterogeneous morphology with high roughness and a large number of pores of different sizes was observed. Likewise, a mass percentage of 47.26% carbon, 52.03% oxygen and 0.7% chlorine was found. In addition, an analysis of chemical compounds was performed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which revealed the presence of bands at 1041 cm-1, 1624 cm-1, 2916 cm-1 and 3324 cm-1 representatives of lignocellulosic material. Finally, a porosity analysis was performed with the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) technique, obtaining an average pore size of 267 nm, BET surface area of 1511 cm2/g and pore volume of 0.000018 cm³/g. It was concluded that the properties of the material can favor the adsorption of organic and inorganic contaminants such as metals or chemical dyes, and that under chemical modifications, it could be used as a natural coagulant in the treatment of the same.