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Polar monomers are often grafted onto poly(ethylene-co-octene) [POE] to expand its application spectrum. However, the process frequently involves cautious handling of reactive monomers and hazardous solvents. On the contrary, the present work deals with similar modification but using a polymer, poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) [EVA] in the melt through the formation of a double network hybrid using an external crosslinker. POE is an important new generation elastomer having great balance between physical and mechanical properties but its polarity needs to be improved for furthering its uses in industrial oil resistant applications and surface adhesion with other agents. The POE (major component)-EVA (minor component) hybrid compositions were designed using Taguchi statistical technique for optimization. Physico-mechanical properties like tensile, stress relaxation, hysteresis, rheological properties like pseudoplastic index, die swell and solvent swelling kinetics were investigated. The results were found depended on the network morphology of the hybrids. One composition was finally selected which produced better balance between all physico-rheological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first report on the use of waste chrome-tanned Indian leather buffing dust for plasticizing atactic polystyrene (PS). There is no effective re-use of waste leather buffing dust reported till today. This waste material, after preliminary characterization, has been dispersed in solvated polystyrene. Resultant composites prepared therefrom via solution cast method exhibit a drastic drop in surface hardness up to certain modifier concentration, beyond which it increases. Addition of surfactants during dispersion of the buffing dust at the optimum level further reduces surface hardness. Para-toluene sulphonic acid (PTSA) has been found to be a better compatibilizer than more conventional sodium lauryl sulphate (LS) in this system. The compatibilized composites show substantial "yield behaviour" when stretched and the breaking strain has been improved drastically from 0.2% in pure polystyrene to 25% in PTSA compatibilized system without any loss in strength. Accordingly, the breaking energy has been increased to much greater than that of the virgin polymer. Effective plasticization of the composites has lowered the glass transition temperature (Tg); PTSA containing composite has shown the minimum value, possibly due to generation of more free volume around the rigid polystyrene molecules on account of its effective adsorption over finer dust particles. Accelerated thermal degradation study shows greater thermal stability of the composites as compared to virgin polymer and this possibly resulted due to the presence of chromium content in the waste, which acts as heat sinks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Extremely fast release of diltiazem hydrochloride (water soluble, anti anginal drug used to treat chest pain) together with its faster erosion has been the primary problem in conventional oral therapy. It has been addressed in this paper by encapsulating the drug in electron beam irradiated various poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogel membranes and delivering it through transdermal route. Results show excellent control over the release of diltiazem hydrochloride through these membranes subject to their physico-mechanicals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aqueous nanosilica sol (particle size range: 9-13 nm, pH: 9.0) was added at various low concentration range (0.5-2 wt.%) into aqueous poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) of different molecular weight (98% hydrolyzed, 20 wt.%) (pH: 5.0) at room temperature under constant stirring to synthesize organic-inorganic hybrid hydrogels in presence of sodium lauryl sulphate as a silica dispersant. Buffer tablets were added to arrest the pH at 9.0 (to prevent any silica aggregation due to change in pH). The resultant hybrids were cast on Teflon sheets and dried in an oven at 50°C to drive out all the unbound water. Those films were then subjected to freese-thaw treatment continuously for 5 h. The freese-thawed films appeared opaque. The swelling-de swelling experiments with the hydrogels were carried out in distilled water at room temperature and consequently allowed to de-swell naturally. Those observations were correlated with the microstructures of the hybrid hydrogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Structural and regulatory components in the spinous processes neurons are still not fully understood. While the presence, regulation and function of actin cytoskeleton are now well established, involvement of microtubule cytoskeleton is only now being studied. In spite of biochemical, genetic and anatomical evidence, neurobiologists have experienced difficulties to even establish the physical presence and to demonstrate the functional relevance of “filamentous microtubules” in the spines. However, recent studies have demonstrated that filamentous microtubules regularly invade most spines. Moreover, functional aspects like stabilization and maturation of spines can be directly correlated with the presence of these microtubules; low doses of microtubule stabilizers can induce as many as 50% more spines. Clinically, knowledge of microtubule active drugs is extremely important, especially in the area of oncology, where they are commonly used as anti-neoplastic agents. Unfortunately, a major dose-limiting side effect of this class of drugs is a painful peripheral neuropathy. We review the recent concept of microtubules in the spine, and also critically analyze their role in chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The mechanism of active stress generation in tension wood is still not fully understood. To characterize the functional interdependency between the G-layer and the secondary cell wall, nanostructural characterization and mechanical tests were performed on native tension wood tissues of poplar (Populus nigra × Populus deltoids) and on tissues in which the G-layer was removed by an enzymatic treatment. In addition to the well-known axial orientation of the cellulose fibrils in the G-layer, it was shown that the microfibril angle of the S2-layer was very large (about 36°). The removal of the G-layer resulted in an axial extension and a tangential contraction of the tissues. The tensile stress–strain curves of native tension wood slices showed a jagged appearance after yield that could not be seen in the enzyme-treated samples. The behaviour of the native tissue was modelled by assuming that cells deform elastically up to a critical strain at which the G-layer slips, causing a drop in stress. The results suggest that tensile stresses in poplar are generated in the living plant by a lateral swelling of the G-layer which forces the surrounding secondary cell wall to contract in the axial direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been shown recently that wood with a high cellulose microfibril angle in the S2-layer, e.g. compression wood, shows permanent plastic deformation without significant mechanical damage to the matrix. This molecular stick-slip mechanism was explained by a gliding of the cellulose fibrils, after a certain shear stress in the matrix was exceeded []. Such a material behaviour would be desirable for various applications, for instance, to cover complex geometries with highly deformable veneers as needed in the automotive industry. However, veneers that are typically used for these purposes have a rather brittle failure behaviour, which leads to breakage, and drastic quality and productivity losses. A better deformability of such veneers might be achieved when the underlying deformation principles are conferred by modifying the wood cell wall components, in particular the cellulose fibrils and their matrix coupling. Enzyme treatments were performed on mechanically isolated wood fibres to plastify the entire lignified secondary cell wall. Cellulase Onozuka R-10 from Trichoderma viride (E.C.3.2.1.4) with activity on cellulose and xylan was utilized. Micromechanical tests and FT-IR microscopy studies revealed the change of mechanical properties and nanostructural features of the cell wall. An extended deformability was achieved for two of ten of the modified fibres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-traditional polyesters from low molecular weight Poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG, Mn 4000) and biocompatible Trimesic acid (TMA) were synthesised through stoichiometric feeding of PEG and TMA in the mole ratios starting from 1:0.5 to 1:5. The melt condensation was carried out under catalytic condition for a limited period of 6 h to prohibit gelation of the entire mass due to over-abundance of the functional groups. The polyesters were formed with substantial soluble yield; at lower acid concentration in the feed e.g. 1:0.5, 1:1 and 1:2-they were mostly branched while at higher concentration e.g. 1:3 and 1:5-they were significantly crosslinked. Nearly all the specimens contained partially reacted TMA molecules in the branch ends which made them pH responsive (the hydrodynamic sizes altered with change in pH). The polymers were characterized using solubility, spectroscopy, viscometry and particle size measurements to establish the microstructure, formation kinetics and branched topology. Nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) established the maximum extent of branching (65%) at 1:5 mol composition. Suitability for bioapplication of the polyesters was examined from surface texture study and cell cytotoxicity analysis. The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images portrayed adequate micro voids on the surface, on the other hand, the cytotoxicity study depicted those surfaces could adhere and support the growth of mammalian cells and also successfully survive the MTT assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates interesting contrasts between physical, mechanical and rheological properties of double network hybrids developed from high (30 wt.%) and low (9 wt.%) methyl acrylate containing poly (ethylene-co-methyl acrylate) and poly (ethylene-co-octene) thermoplastic elastomer. The compositions were designed adopting a Taguchi L9 statistical model. The model was espoused to consider a wide range of blend compositions and process conditions for optimization. The majority of the low methyl acrylate containing hybrids showed normal correlation between mechanical and other physical properties with the net gel content while for the other variety, they were ambiguous. The reason was investigated and it was found to be due to the influence of the nature of crosslinks formed between the phases which controlled the properties in the latter. Based on the results, finally, two blend compositions were chosen from each set as the most optimized formulations for future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been reported to modulate bone tissue regeneration and are being extensively utilized in biomedical implementations attributable to their low cytotoxicity, biocompatibility and simplicity of functionalization. Lately, biologically synthesized nanoparticles have acquired popularity because of their environmentally acceptable alternatives for diverse applications. Here we report the green synthesis of AuNPs by taking the biopolymer Carboxymethyl Tamarind (CMT) as a unique reducing as well as a stabilizing agent. The synthesized CMT-AuNPs were analyzed by UV–vis spectrophotometer, DLS, FTIR, XRD, TGA, SEM and TEM. These results suggest that CMT-AuNPs possess an average size of 19.93 ± 8.52 nm and have long-term stability. Further, these CMT-AuNPs promote the proliferation together with the differentiation and mineralization of osteoblast cells in a "dose-dependent" manner. Additionally, CMT-AuNPs are non-toxic to SD rats when applied externally. We suggest that the CMT-AuNPs have the potential to be a suitable and non-toxic agent for differentiation and mineralization of osteoblast cells in vitro and this can be tested in vivo as well. Synthesis and characterization of biocompatible CMT-AuNPs for biomineralization. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional branched/hyperbranched copolymers from poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and citric acid (CA) are synthesized by varying the mole compositions of PVA and CA and are used as a prospective vehicle for encapsulation and release of bioactive molecules and as a potential scaffold for cell adhesion and growth. The branched architecture is established from spectroscopy and rheological measurements. All the copolymers have shown a lower hydrodynamic size and viscosity than the linear, high molecular weight PVA because of spherical and more compact architecture. Importantly, the size of the highly branched copolymer is found independent of pH which proved that the branch ends are capped with OH groups. Lower viscosity at equivalent solid content, biocompatibility, high antibacterial property, and presence of adequate macromolecular voids make the branched/hyperbranched copolymers a potential platform for encapsulation and release of gentamicin and other bioactive molecules. The macromolecular voids and chain end functionality also promote adhesion and growth of differentiated primary cells as well as undifferentiated stem cells implying that the copolyester can also be used as a potential 2D/3D scaffold for tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major limitation in the bio-medical sector is the availability of materials suitable for bone tissue engineering using stem cells and methodology converting the stochastic biological events towards definitive as well as efficient bio-mineralization. We show that osteoblasts and Bone Marrow-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Pools (BM-MSCP) express TRPM8, a Ca2+-ion channel critical for bone-mineralization. TRPM8 inhibition triggers up-regulation of key osteogenesis factors; and increases mineralization by osteoblasts. We utilized CMT:HEMA, a carbohydrate polymer-based hydrogel that has nanofiber-like structure suitable for optimum delivery of TRPM8-specific activators or inhibitors. This hydrogel is ideal for proper adhesion, growth, and differentiation of osteoblast cell lines, primary osteoblasts, and BM-MSCP. CMT:HEMA coated with AMTB (TRPM8 inhibitor) induces differentiation of BM-MSCP into osteoblasts and subsequent mineralization in a dose-dependent manner. Prolonged and optimum inhibition of TRPM8 by AMTB released from the gels results in upregulation of osteogenic markers. We propose that AMTB-coated CMT:HEMA can be used as a tunable surface for bone tissue engineering. These findings may have broad implications in different bio-medical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A potential nanograde antibiotic with hyperbranched architecture was synthesized from melt esterification of poly(ethylene glycol) or PEG and Citric acid or CA with 1:1 mol composition. PEG of different molecular weights, c.a. 4000, 6000 and 20,000 were used during the polyesterification. The polyester molecules of nanometric size were highly water soluble and showed a melting point between 55 and 60 °C. The branching status was established from spectroscopy, flow behaviour (viscosity) and rheological evidences. The extent of branching and flowability, both were reduced as the molecular weight of PEG was increased. During in-vitro pathological study, all the grades showed reasonably strong antibacterial affect (both with gram positive and negative bacteria), high selectivity, biocompatibility and controlled generation of reactive oxygen species or ROS, however, the grade with maximum level of branching and functional chain ends displayed highest therapeutic efficiency, may that be considered further as a potential agent for next level investigation. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A polyester with hyperbranched architecture was synthesized from polyethylene glycol and Citric acid. • All polyesters were nanometric in size however, the size increases with molecular weight of PEG. • The highest branched grade was effective against both gram positive and negative bacteria without harming normal cells. • This particular grade could be a promising nanograde antibiotic for wide range of bacterial infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With increased life expectancy, disorders in lifestyle and other clinical conditions, and the changes in the connective tissues such as in bone, impose diverse biomedical problems. Cells belong to osteogenic lineages are extremely specific for their surface requirements. Therefore, suitable surfaces are the critical bottle neck for successful bone tissue engineering. This study involves assessment of polysaccharide-based hydrogel which effectively allows growth, differentiation and mineralisation of osteogenic cells even in the absence of osteogenic inducing factors. Materials and methods: Tamarind Kernel Polysaccharide was grafted with acrylic acid at different mole ratio. The critical parameter, surface morphology for bio application was assessed by SEM. MTT assay has been performed with hydrogels on Saos-2 cells. The biocompatibility and adhesion of different cell lines (F-11, Saos-2, Raw 264.7 and MSCs) on hydrogel surface was performed by Phalloidin and DAPI staining. Further the differentiation, mineralization and expression of different osteogenic markers, ALP assay, Alizarin Red staining and q-PCR was performed. Results: The hydrogels show highly porous and interconnected pores. MTT assay demonstrates the hydrogel have no cytotoxicity towards Saos-2 cells and are suitable for proliferation of different lineage of cell lines. ALP, Alizarin red staining and q-PCR assay shows that the hydrogel surface enhances the differentiation, mineralization and expression of different osteogenic genes in Saos-2 cells in the absence of any osteogenic inducing factors. Conclusion Synthesized hydrogel surface triggers signalling events towards osteogenesis even in the absence of added growth factors. We proposed that this material can be used for effective bone tissue engineering in vitro at low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patho-physiologies related to skin are diverse in nature such as burns, skin ulcers, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis etc. which impose severe bio-medical problems and thus enforce requirement of new and healthy skin prepared through tissues engineering methodologies. However, fully functional and biodegradable matrix for attachment, growth, proliferation and differentiation of the relevant cells is not available. In the present study, we introduce a set of hydrogels synthesized by incorporation of a synthetic monomer (Hydroxyethlmethacryate) with a semi-synthetic polymer backbone (carboxy methyl tamarind, CMT) in different mole ratios. We termed these materials as CMT:HEMA based hydrogels and these were characterized by different physico-chemical techniques, namely by X-Ray Diffraction, SEM and Dynamic Light Scattering. Biocompatibility studies with HaCaT, NIH-3T3 and mouse dermal fibroblasts confirm that this material is biocompatible. MTT assay further confirmed that this material does not have any cytotoxic effects. Assays for mitochondrial functionality such as ATP assay and mitochondrial reactive oxygen (ROS) generation also suggest that this material is safe and does not have any cytotoxicity. Hemolytic assay with red blood cells and acute skin irritation test on SD Rats confirmed that this material is suitable for ex-vivo application in future. We suggest that this hydrogel is suitable for in-vivo applications and may have clinical and commercial importance against skin disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With increased life expectancy, disorders in lifestyle and other clinical conditions, and the changes in the connective tissues such as in bone, impose diverse biomedical problems. Cells belong to osteogenic lineages are extremely specific for their surface requirements. Therefore, suitable surfaces are the critical bottle neck for successful bone tissue engineering. This study involves assessment of polysaccharide-based hydrogel which effectively allows growth, differentiation and mineralisation of osteogenic cells even in the absence of osteogenic inducing factors. Materials and methods: Tamarind Kernel Polysaccharide was grafted with acrylic acid at different mole ratio. The critical parameter, surface morphology for bio application was assessed by SEM. MTT assay has been performed with hydrogels on Saos-2 cells. The biocompatibility and adhesion of different cell lines (F-11, Saos-2, Raw 264.7 and MSCs) on hydrogel surface was performed by Phalloidin and DAPI staining. Further the differentiation, mineralization and expression of different osteogenic markers, ALP assay, Alizarin Red staining and q-PCR was performed. Results: The hydrogels show highly porous and interconnected pores. MTT assay demonstrates the hydrogel have no cytotoxicity towards Saos-2 cells and are suitable for proliferation of different lineage of cell lines. ALP, Alizarin red staining and q-PCR assay shows that the hydrogel surface enhances the differentiation, mineralization and expression of different osteogenic genes in Saos-2 cells in the absence of any osteogenic inducing factors. Conclusion Synthesized hydrogel surface triggers signalling events towards osteogenesis even in the absence of added growth factors. We proposed that this material can be used for effective bone tissue engineering in vitro at low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With increased life expectancy, disorders in lifestyle and other clinical conditions, and the changes in the connective tissues such as in bone, impose diverse biomedical problems. Cells belong to osteogenic lineages are extremely specific for their surface requirements. Therefore, suitable surfaces are the critical bottle neck for successful bone tissue engineering. This study involves assessment of polysaccharide-based hydrogel which effectively allows growth, differentiation and mineralisation of osteogenic cells even in the absence of osteogenic inducing factors. Materials and methods: Tamarind Kernel Polysaccharide was grafted with acrylic acid at different mole ratio. The critical parameter, surface morphology for bio application was assessed by SEM. MTT assay has been performed with hydrogels on Saos-2 cells. The biocompatibility and adhesion of different cell lines (F-11, Saos-2, Raw 264.7 and MSCs) on hydrogel surface was performed by Phalloidin and DAPI staining. Further the differentiation, mineralization and expression of different osteogenic markers, ALP assay, Alizarin Red staining and q-PCR was performed. Results: The hydrogels show highly porous and interconnected pores. MTT assay demonstrates the hydrogel have no cytotoxicity towards Saos-2 cells and are suitable for proliferation of different lineage of cell lines. ALP, Alizarin red staining and q-PCR assay shows that the hydrogel surface enhances the differentiation, mineralization and expression of different osteogenic genes in Saos-2 cells in the absence of any osteogenic inducing factors. Conclusion Synthesized hydrogel surface triggers signalling events towards osteogenesis even in the absence of added growth factors. We proposed that this material can be used for effective bone tissue engineering in vitro at low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current work, biomaterial composed of Xanthan gum and Diethylene glycol dimethacrylate with impregnation of graphite nanopowder filler in their matrices was fabricated successfully for their potential usage in the engineering of bone defects. Various physicochemical properties associated with the biomaterial were characterized using FTIR, XRD, TGA, SEM etc. The biomaterial rheological studies imparted the better notable properties associated with the inclusion of graphite nanopowder. The biomaterial synthesized exhibited a controlled drug release. Adhesion and proliferation of different secondary cell lines do not generate ROS on the current biomaterial and thus show its biocompatibility and non-toxic nature. The synthesized biomaterial's osteogenic potential on SaOS-2 cells was supported by increased ALP activity, enhanced differentiation and biomineralization under osteoinductive circumstances. The current biomaterial demonstrates that in addition to the drug-delivery applications, it can also be a cost-effective substrate for cellular activities and has all the necessary properties to be considered as a promising alternative material suitable for repairing and restoring bone tissues. We propose that this biomaterial may have commercial importance in the biomedical field. Synthesis and characterization of XDnGR biomaterial for cellular adhesion and bone cell mineralization. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable hydrophobic membranes were prepared in-situ from the composites of poly (diethylene glycol dimethacrylate) grafted carboxymethyl guargum (CMG-g-PDEGDMA)/carboxy functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube (f-MWCNT). The composite membranes were applied for transdermal delivery of hydrophobic diclofenac sodium. The uniform dispersion of f-MWCNT resulted into stronger–matrix filler interaction, particularly at 1 wt.% f-MWCNT concentration. The membrane was most hydrophobic and least drug eluting. At higher f-MWCNT loading i.e. at 2 and 3 wt.% the membranes were less hydrophobic and faster drug eluting as a consequence of relatively poor matrix–filler interaction and copolymer wrapping. The most hydrophobic formulation (1 wt.%) had released 16.4% of the encapsulated drug, while the least (3 wt.%) had released 42% after 20 h study in a Franz diffusion cell under physiological condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] First use of the exudate of Acacia nilotica as flocculant for kaolin suspension. [•] The exudate is predominantly carbohydrate having polyelectrolytic character. [•] Flocculation efficiency found to be function of zeta potential and molecular size. [•] Best results are obtained at 25ppm flocculant dose taken between pH 1.6 and 2.6. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Polysaccharide based hydrogel. [•] Bone precursor cells. [•] Cell adhesion. [•] Novel extracellular matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to formulate a novel Levilactobacillus brevis enriched nutraceutical and to study its functional property in vitro in cancer cell lines and in vivo in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium infected mouse model. The formulation was prepared through the fermentation of carrot and beetroot extracts using L. brevis MTCC 4460 and optimized by response surface methodology and artificial neural networking. The optimized formulation (3.23 mg/ml lactic acid) could be obtained through 48 h fermentation with 2% of bacterial inoculum, 0.67% additional sugar and 30.11% of beetroot extract. The L. brevis MTCC 4460 content in the optimized product was 4 × 109 CFU/ml. GC-MS study indicated the generation of some novel flavouring and bioactive compounds such as γ-decalactone, and 1,2:5,6-dianhydrogalactitol during the fermentation. In vitro study with HCT116 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines elucidated better antiproliferative and antimigratory effect of the optimized formulation. In vivo studies showed that the L. brevis MTCC 4460 could colonize in the colon of the mouse fed with the optimized product. In addition, the formulation effectively prevented Salmonella -induced colitis in the mouse model. Based on the aforesaid findings, the optimized formulation can be recommended as a potential dietary supplement for a healthy lifestyle. • Levilactobacillus brevis based formula was prepared with carrot and beetroot extracts. • The formulation exhibited a protective role in cell proliferation and migration. • The nutraceutical inhibited the Salmonella infection in the colon and spleen. • The formulation has the potential for commercialization as a functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Green, hydrophobic device for controlled transdermal release of diclofenac sodium was designed from in situ nanosilica/acrylic acid grafted guargum membranes. Best grafting condition was assigned and nanocomposites were formed in situ using varying proportions of aqueous nanosilica sol. Nanocomposite/drug conjugates were formed by bringing down the medium pH from 9.0 to 7.0. The conjugates were characterized through infrared and solid state NMR spectroscopy, electron microscopy, hydro-swelling, surface contact angle, viscometry and biocompatibility. Most balanced property was exhibited by the membrane containing 1wt% nanosilica. It also had shown the highest encapsulation efficacy vis-à-vis slowest release as compared to others during experimentation in a Franz diffusion cell. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Advanced technologies like skin tissue engineering are requisite of various disorders where artificially synthesized materials need to be used as a scaffold in vivo , which in turn can allow the formation of functional skin and epidermal layer with all biological sensory functions. In this work, we present a set of hydrogels which have been synthesized by the method utilizing radical polymerization of a natural polymer extracted from kernel of Tamarindus indica , commonly known as Tamarind Kernel Powder (TKP) modified by utilizing the monomer acrylic acid (AA) in different mole ratios. These materials are termed as TKP: AA hydrogels and characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), surface charge, and particle size distribution using Dynamic Light Scattering measurements. These materials are biocompatible with mouse dermal fibroblasts (NIH- 3T3) and human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT), as confirmed by MTT and biocompatibility assays. These TKP: AA hydrogels do not induce unwanted ROS signaling as confirmed by mitochondrial functionality determined by DCFDA staining, Mitosox imaging, and measuring the ATP levels. We demonstrate that in the co-culture system, TKP: AA allows the establishment of proper neuro-keratinocyte contact formation, suggesting that this hydrogel can be suitable for developing skin with sensory functions. Skin corrosion analysis on SD rats confirms that TKP: AA is appropriate for in vivo applications as well. This is further confirmed by in vivo compatibility and toxicity studies, including hemocompatibility and histopathology of liver and kidney upon direct introduction of hydrogel into the body. We propose that TKP: AA (1: 5) offers a suitable surface for skin tissue engineering with sensory functions applicable in vitro , in vivo , and ex vivo. These findings may have broad biomedical and clinical importance. • Material for skin tissue engineering • Material for Neuro-keratinocyte interaction • Material for in-vivo application • Non-toxic and biocompatible material [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, sodium alginate (SA) based "all-natural" composite bio-sponges were designed for potential application as wound care scaffold. The composite bio-sponges were developed from the aqueous amalgamation of SA and cellulose nanofibres (CNFs) in bio-extracts like Rice water (Rw) and Giloy extract (Ge). These sponges were modified by employing a simple coating strategy using vegetable oil-based bio-polyurethane (BioPU) to tailor their physicochemical and biological properties so as to match the specific requirements of a wound care scaffold. Bio-sponges with shared interpenetrating polymeric network structures were attained at optimized BioPU coating formulation. The interpenetration of BioPU chains within the sponge construct resulted in the formation of numerous micro-networks in the interconnected microporous structure of sponges (porosity ≥75%). The coated sponge showed a superior mechanical strength (compressive strength ~3.8 MPa, compressive modulus ~35 MPa) with appreciable flexibility and recoverability under repeated compressive loading-unloading cycles. A tunable degradation behaviour was achieved by varying BioPU coating concentrations owing to the different degree of polymer chain entanglement within the sponge construct. The physical entanglement of BioPU chains with core structural components of sponge improved their structural stability by suppressing their full fragmentation in water-based medium without affecting its swelling behaviour (swelling ratio > 1000%). The coated sponge surface has provided a suitable moist-adherent physical environment to support the adhesion and growth of skin cells (HaCaT cells). The MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and hemolytic assay revealed the non-toxic and biocompatible nature of coated sponges in vitro. Moreover, no signs of skin erythema or edema were observed during in vivo dermal irritation and corrosion test performed on the skin of Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. Our initial observations revealed the credibility of these sponges as functional wound care scaffolds as well as its diverse potential as a suitable substrate for various tissue engineering applications. Unlabelled Image • Bio-polyurethane (BioPU) coated multicomponent composite sponge as wound care scaffold. • Optimized BioPU coated sponges with interconnected microporous structure. • Appreciable mechanical performance of coated sponges with flexible and recoverable attributes. • Coated sponges with high water absorption capacity along with enhanced structural stability in moist conditions. • Biocompatible and non-cytotoxic nature of coated sponges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Design of a hybrid material of guargum and hyperbranched polymer by grafting. • Hybrid material proved to be an efficient water-absorbing polymer. • Hybrid material served as a gelling agent for the culture of cyanobacteria. • Hybrid material served as an effective medium for plant growth. This study reports the synthesis of an unprecedented bio-based aquasorbent guargum-g-hyperbranched poly (acrylic acid); bGG-g-HBPAA by employing graft-copolymerization and "Strathclyde methodology" simultaneously in emulsion and its possible use as a sustainable nutrient bed for the effective growth of Anabaena cylindrica and Vigna radiata seedlings. The formation of bGG-g-HBPAA and the presence of hyperbranched architectures was confirmed from XRD, FTIR, 13C NMR, solubility, intrinsic viscosity, BET surface area/ pore size, SEM and rheology analyses. The synthesized grade with a branching percent of 65.4% and a swelling percentage of 13,300% facilitated maximum growth of the cultured species as compared to guargum and its linear graft. Semi synthetic bGG-g-HBPAA culture medium was optically transparent, dried at a controlled rate, held a huge amount of water for growth, provided sufficient space for unhindered growth and featured dimensional stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]