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Nanotechnology Tools for Infections Control: Scanning New Horizons on Next-Generation Therapies to Eradicate Pathogens and Fight Drug Resistance provides an overview of recent strategies to build nanotechnology platforms, with a specific focus on biocompatible and biodegradable nanosystems. Particular attention is given to responsive nanoparticles, which are able to sense and respond to specific external stimuli (e.g., temperature, pH). The book includes details of the rationale behind the design of the raw materials, synthetic procedures and characterization techniques. It also introduces a new generation of nanomaterials, commonly named as'nanobots', which are able to self-propel in response to external stimuli. Subsequent sections of the book focus on the applications of nanosystems as an alternative approach to standard antibiotics. The chapters describe their pharmokinetic and dynamics within the body, their ability to cross biological barriers and how they distribute within different body compartments. In this respect, a dedicated section highlights the crucial role of the immune system, as well as of protein corona, in changing the nanoparticles retention within the body. Coverage is also given to describe how nanosystems access different cells and their intracellular trafficking. - Provides an overview of the current challenges in infection and immunity, showing how nanosystems can be used to meet them - Focuses on the translational potential of nanotechnology for both clinical and commercial applications - Assesses the major challenges of effectively using nanotechnology in immunology

Sustainable Materials for Food Packaging and Preservation: Food Security and Sustainability discusses the recent trends and development of bio-based sustainable materials, focusing on their fabrication and application in food packaging and food preservation. This book brings together fundamental information and the most recent advances in the characterization, processing, and modification of sustainable materials and their impact on food packaging and storage of food products for improving their shelf life. Special attention is given to smart, active, and edible packaging, and the utilization of nanoemulsion and nanoencapsulation in the food industry is also discussed. In addition, the book reviews the use of proteins, polysaccharides, and microbial and chemically derived materials for food preservation. - Discusses recent trends and advancements in the applications of sustainable materials in food packaging and preservation, providing an overview of various sustainable materials, such as agro-based and microbial and chemically derived materials - Covers fabrication techniques, characterization, and processing of various sustainable materials used for food packaging and preservation - Includes a thorough discussion of the current sustainable solutions for extending the shelf life of food products in the packaging process

Handbook of Advanced Ceramic Coatings: Fundamentals, Manufacturing and Classification introduces ceramic coating materials, methods of fabrication, characterizations, the interaction between fillers, reinforcers, and environmental impact, and the functional classification of ceramic coatings. The book is one of four volumes that together provide a comprehensive resource in the field of Advanced Ceramic Coatings, also including titles covering energy, biomedical and emerging applications. These books will be extremely useful for academic and industrial researchers and practicing engineers who need to find reliable and up-to-date information about recent progresses and new developments in the field of advanced ceramic coatings. Smart ceramic coatings containing multifunctional components are now finding application in transportation and automotive industries, in electronics, and energy sectors, in aerospace and defense, and in industrial goods and healthcare. Their wide application and stability in harsh environments are only possible due to the stability of the inorganic components used. Ceramic coatings are typically silicon nitride, chromia, hafnia, alumina, alumina-magnesia, silica, silicon carbide, titania, and zirconia-based compositions. The increased demand for these materials and their application in energy, transportation, and the automotive industry, are considered, to be the main drivers. - Comprehensively covers the production, characterization and properties of advanced ceramic coatings - Features the latest manufacturing processes - Covers basic principles of surface chemistry, along with the fundamentals of ceramic materials and engineering - Features the latest progress and recent technological developments - Discusses basic science relevant to both the materials and preparation methods

Sustainable Polylactide-Based Composites integrates fundamental knowledge pertaining to manufacturing and characterization of polymer composites with a thorough and critical overview of the state-of-the-art in PLA-based composites, including significant past and recent advances. The book begins with insights into the basics of polymer composites, with special reference to sustainable composites, as well as fundamental knowledge related to PLA. This is followed by chapters on manufacturing methods, morphological characterization techniques, and the mechanical models used for polymer composites. A comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in PLA-based sustainable composites of all extensively used fillers is then presented. After providing fundamental knowledge related to PLA and polymer composites, including structure-property-processing relationship, the book focuses on recent research efforts and key research challenges in the development of PLA-based composites, as well as lifecycle assessment and recycling. - Presents fundamentals, processing techniques, characterization methods, and modeling - Offers comprehensive coverage of a broad range of polylactide composites - Addresses key issues that could shape future research and industrial application for sustainable future development

Recent Advances and Applications of Thermoset Resins, Second Edition provides a reference source for anyone interested in understanding the chemistry, processing, properties, composites and applications of thermoset resins. Sections cover the chemistry of thermoset resins and recent advances in various aspects, including toughening, micro-reinforcement, nano-reinforcement, simultaneous nano-reinforcement and toughening. The book provides detailed information on synthesis, characterization and processing techniques. A critical review of the latest advances in thermoset-based composites and nanocomposites is also presented, along with future directions of research in various areas of thermoset resins. This is a valuable resource for researchers, scientists and advanced students in polymer science, plastics engineering, adhesives and coatings, composites, and materials engineering, as well as R&D professionals, engineers and manufacturers with an interest in thermoset resins and materials for advanced applications. - Offers comprehensive information on the chemistry, processing, properties and applications of thermoset resins - Presents and reviews cutting-edge developments in the field, including sections on composites, nanocomposites, bio-based resins and 3D printing - Includes the latest methods for analysis, characterization, testing and evaluation of thermoset materials

Antimicrobial Activity of Nanoparticles: Applications in Wound Healing and Infection Treatment presents the state of the art among nanotechnological approaches used in the treatment of infections. This field has gained a large amount of interest over the past few years, in response to the increasing resistance of pathogens to antibiotics. Leading researchers from around the world discuss the synthesis routes of nanobiomaterials, characterization, and their applications as antimicrobial agents. The book covers various aspects: from antiviral and antibacterial nanoparticles, to the functionalization of nanoparticles and their toxicity to human cells. This book offers an advanced reference text for biomedical engineers, materials scientists, clinicians, and biochemists, with an interest in nanomedicine and infection control. - Provides a targeted nanomaterial-based focus in antimicrobial medicine, bridging the gap between biological, clinical, and materials science disciplines - Describes the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles for infection and wound healing, including chemical routes, biological routes, and physical routes - Covers each microbial subgroup and associated antimicrobial nanoparticles in individual, digestible sections

Emerging Nanomaterials and Nano-based Drug Delivery Approaches to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance focuses on recent and emerging trends surrounding nanomaterials and nano-drug delivery approaches to combat antimicrobial resistance. The relationship between nanomaterials and antimicrobial activity needs to be deeply explored to meet the challenges of combating antimicrobial resistance. The content of this book is divided into three main topic areas, including (i) how to overcome the existing traditional approaches to combat antimicrobial resistance, (ii) applying multiple drug delivery mechanisms to target multi-drug resistant microbes, and (iii) how nanomaterials can be used as drug carriers. This is an important reference source for those looking to understand how nanotechnology plays an important role in combatting disease and infection. As antimicrobial resistance threatens the effective prevention and treatment of an ever-increasing range of infections caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi, this is a timely resource. - Outlines how to overcome existing traditional approaches to combatting antimicrobial resistance - Explains how to apply multiple drug delivery mechanisms (MDR) to the target area in order to better combat antimicrobial resistance - Shows how nanomaterials are used as drug carriers in this context

Micro and Nanolignin in Aqueous Dispersions and Polymers: Interactions, Properties, and Applications presents the very latest research on lignin biorefinery treatments, production, chemistry, and refining, exploring a range of innovative applications of lignin and lignin-based composites at both the micro and the nanoscale. The book begins by presenting the latest developments in extraction methods and properties, with topics including methods for value-added microlignin, color characteristics, refining and functionalization, depolymerization for phenolic monomer production, and production of sulphur-free lignin nanoparticles. This is followed by in-depth sections focusing on the preparation of lignin for advanced applications at the microscale, then at the nanoscale, covering a range of areas such as construction, fiber manufacturing, food packaging, biomedicine, wood preservation, wastewater treatment, and agriculture. This valuable resource enables the reader to identify the high added value of a biomass residue and supports possible development and use for mass and niche high impact application sectors. This information is of interest to researchers, scientists, and advanced students, across bio-based polymers and bio-composites, polymer science and engineering, nanomaterials, chemistry, sustainable materials, materials science, and chemical engineering. Moreover, it is also addressed to the professionals that as well as those in an R&D industrial setting to are looking on ideas and perspectives on how to utilize bio-based materials in advanced industrial applications. - Provides detailed information on extraction methods, properties, refining and functionalization processes - Guides the reader through the preparation of lignin both at the micro and nanoscale, as a filler, a matrix, and in all-lignin composites - Takes a design-for-application approach, opening the door to high value applications across a range of sectors

Processing and Development of Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymers for Packaging Applications presents the latest cutting-edge research into the processing and utilization of bio-based polymers for packaging applications, covering materials derived from polysaccharides, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polybutylene and bio-polyethylene. The book also covers the principles of biopolymer plasticization, experimental and modeling techniques, the use of nanotechnology, and key advances relating to biopolymer-based packaging, including anti-microbials, anti-oxidative agents, and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). - Introduces the principles of biopolymer plasticization and summarizes experimental and modeling techniques - Covers a range of important bio-based polymer resources, explaining resources, availability, characterization methods, and extraction and refining techniques - Supports the processing and development of bio-based polymers with enhanced functionality for advanced packaging applications

Nanotoxicity: Prevention, and Antibacterial Applications of Nanomaterials focuses on the fundamental concepts for cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of nanomaterials. It sheds more light on the underlying phenomena and fundamental mechanisms through which nanomaterials interact with organisms and physiological media. The book provides good guidance for toxic prevention methods and management in the manufacture/application/disposal. The book also discusses the potential applications of nanomaterials-based antibiotics. The potential toxic effects of nanomaterials result not only from the type of base materials, but also from their size/ ligands/surface chemical modifications. This book discusses why different classes of nanomaterials display toxic properties, and what can be done to mitigate this toxicity. It also explores how nanomaterials are being used as antimicrobial agents, being used to purify air and water, and counteract a range of infectious diseases. This is an important reference for materials scientists, environmental scientists and biomedical scientists, who are seeking to gain a greater understanding of how nanomaterials can be used to combat toxic agents, and how the toxicity of nanomaterials themselves can best be mitigated. - Explains the underlying phenomena and fundamental mechanisms through which nanomaterials interact with organisms and physiological media - Outlines major methods for mitigating and prevention of nanotoxicity - Discusses the applications of nanomaterials-based antibiotics

Polymeric Nanomaterials in Nanotherapeutics describes how polymeric nanosensors and nanorobotics are used for biomedical instrumentation, surgery, diagnosis and targeted drug delivery for cancer, pharmacokinetics, monitoring of diabetes and healthcare. Key areas of coverage include drug administration and formulations for targeted delivery and release of active agents (drug molecules) to non-healthy tissues and cells. The book demonstrates how these are applied to dental work, wound healing, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, infectious diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases, metabolic diseases, and more. Methods of administration discussed include oral, dental, topical and transdermal, pulmonary and nasal, ocular, vaginal, and brain drug delivery and targeting. Drug delivery topics treated in several subchapters includes materials for active targeting and cases study of polymeric nanomaterials in clinical trials. The toxicity and regulatory status of therapeutic polymeric nanomaterials are also examined. The book gives a broad perspective on the topic for researchers, postgraduate students and professionals in the biomaterials, biotechnology, and biomedical fields. - Shows how the properties of polymeric nanomaterials can be used to create more efficient medical treatments/therapies - Demonstrates the potential and range of applications of polymeric nanomaterials in disease prevention, diagnosis, drug development, and for improving treatment outcomes - Accurately explains how nanotherapeutics can help in solving problems in the field through the latest technologies and formulations

Emerging Applications of Nanoparticles and Architecture Nanostructures: Current Prospects and Future Trends discusses the most important current applications of nanoparticles and architecture nanostructures in a comprehensive, detailed manner. The book covers major applications of nanoparticles and architecture nanostructures, taking into account their unusual shapes and high surface areas. In particular, coverage is given to applications in aerospace, automotive, batteries, sensors, smart textile design, energy conversion, color imaging, printing, computer chips, medical implants, pharmacy, cosmetics, and more. In addition, the book discusses the future of research in these areas. This is a valuable reference for both materials scientists, chemical and mechanical engineers working both in R&D and academia who want to learn more on how nanoparticles and nanomaterials are commercially applied. - Provides an in-depth look at the properties of nanoparticles and architecture nanostructures in terms of their applicability for industrial uses - Analyzes the most recent advances and industrial applications of different types of nanoparticles and architecture nanostructures, taking into account their unusual structures and compositions - Identifies novel nanometric particles and architectures that are of particular value for applications and the techniques required to use them effectively

Handbook of Antimicrobial Coatings is the first comprehensive work on the developments being made in the emerging field of antimicrobial coatings. Crucial aspects associated with coating research are presented in the form of individual chapters. Particular close attention has been given to essential aspects necessary to understand the properties of novel materials. The book introduces the reader to progress being made in the field, followed by an outline of applications in different areas. Various methods and techniques of synthesis and characterization are detailed as individual chapters. Chapters provide insight into the ongoing research, current trends and technical challenges in this rapidly progressing field. The covered topics were chosen so that they can be easily understood by new scholars as well as advanced learners. No book has been written on this topic thus far with so much crucial information for materials scientists, engineers and technologists. - Offers the first comprehensive work on developments being made in the emerging field of antimicrobial coatings - Features updates written by leading experts in the field of anti-microbial coatings - Includes discussions of coatings for novel materials - Provides various methods and techniques of synthesis and characterization detailed in individual chapters

Antimicrobial Nanoarchitectonics: From Synthesis to Applications brings together recent research in antimicrobial nanoparticles, specifically in the sustained and controlled delivery of antimicrobials. Particular attention is given to i) reducing the side effects of antibiotics, ii) increasing the pharmacological effect, and iii) improving aqueous solubility and chemical stability of different antimicrobials. In addition, antimicrobial nanoparticles in drug delivery are discussed extensively. The book also evaluates the pros and cons of using nanostructured biomaterials in the prevention and eradication of infections. It is an important reference resource for materials scientists and bioengineers who want to learn how nanomaterials are used in antimicrobial therapy. - Provides readers with the information necessary to select the appropriate bionanomaterial to solve particular infection problems - Includes case studies, showing how particular bionanomaterials have been used to cure infections - Explains the central role that nanotechnology plays in modern antimicrobial therapy - Evaluates the pros and cons of using nanostructured biomaterials in the prevention and eradication of infections

Polyurethane Polymers: Blends and Interpenetrating Networks deals with almost all aspects of blends and IPNs formed by polyurethane, including the thermal, mechanical, morphological, and viscoelastic properties of each blend presented in the book. In addition, major applications related to these blends and IPNs are mentioned. - Provides an elaborate coverage of the chemistry of polyurethane, including its synthesis and properties - Includes available characterization techniques - Relates types of polyurethanes to their potential properties - Discusses blends options

Nanostructures for Antimicrobial Therapy discusses the pros and cons of the use of nanostructured materials in the prevention and eradication of infections, highlighting the efficient microbicidal effect of nanoparticles against antibiotic-resistant pathogens and biofilms. Conventional antibiotics are becoming ineffective towards microorganisms due to their widespread and often inappropriate use. As a result, the development of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms is increasingly being reported. New approaches are needed to confront the rising issues related to infectious diseases. The merging of biomaterials, such as chitosan, carrageenan, gelatin, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) with nanotechnology provides a promising platform for antimicrobial therapy as it provides a controlled way to target cells and induce the desired response without the adverse effects common to many traditional treatments. Nanoparticles represent one of the most promising therapeutic treatments to the problem caused by infectious micro-organisms resistant to traditional therapies. This volume discusses this promise in detail, and also discusses what challenges the greater use of nanoparticles might pose to medical professionals. The unique physiochemical properties of nanoparticles, combined with their growth inhibitory capacity against microbes has led to the upsurge in the research on nanoparticles as antimicrobials. The importance of bactericidal nanobiomaterials study will likely increase as development of resistant strains of bacteria against most potent antibiotics continues. - Shows how nanoantibiotics can be used to more effectively treat disease - Discusses the advantages and issues of a variety of different nanoantibiotics, enabling medics to select which best meets their needs - Provides a cogent summary of recent developments in this field, allowing readers to quickly familiarize themselves with this topic area