Search

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate into calcium phosphate (CaP) nucleation and growth on the electrospun nylon-6 nanofibers having its own and added functionalities of lactic acid (LA) and calcium lactate (CL) obtained by novel coating technique. LA was simply incorporated into the nylon-6 fibers by means of simple blending prior to electrospinning where as CL was deposited on the surface of as-formed core–shell structured fibers via simple acid–base neutralization. The bone formation ability of different functional groups on the fiber was evaluated by incubating in simulated body fluid. This study demonstrated a functionalities depended nucleation and growth mechanism of hollow CaP nanosphere on the surface of polymeric nanofibers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: One of the major characteristics of living microorganisms is their behavior in deposition upon material surfaces. The initial biofouling behavior was investigated by measuring the mass of bacteria deposited on various metallic surfaces immersed in stationary distilled water. Three different bacteria were used: Pseudomonas fluorescens, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella aerogenes, all of which commonly exist in industrial water systems. The present results show that P. fluorescens was most adherent to a Ti surface, while E. coli and K. aerogenes were affinitive to Au and Al, respectively. Generally, Au and Ti metals showed high bacterial deposition behavior. The bacteria deposited on the Ti surface could be effectively removed by irradiation of ultra-violet light. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Extensive research is currently underway to devise effective strategies for the isolation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood samples. The utilization of magnetic particles and magnet as a means for this separation process is garnering increased attention within this field. However, when utilizing fixed magnets to capture cancer cells with attached magnetic particles, the inability to control the magnetic field may result in cellular damage due to the strong magnetic field compressing the magnetic particles. In this study, we developed a hybrid system that leverages electromagnetic coils to modulate the strength of the magnetic field from the magnets within a microfluidic channel, enabling real-time control of cancer cells with attached magnetic particles. Through the strategic application of electromagnetic coils, we achieved precise control over the magnet's position, thereby enabling real-time observation of the cancer cell within the microfluidic channel. Additionally, this approach facilitated the release of captured cancer cells from the magnet. The isolated cells could then be cultured to assess individualized drug responses, and evaluate their reactivity to the treatment. Through the implementation of this novel technique, we anticipate that the real-time capture and analysis of CTCs from blood samples will enable more efficient and effective diagnostics and treatment monitoring, ultimately improving patient outcomes. [Display omitted] • A hybrid system of permanent magnets and electromagnets was developed for effective control of a strong magnetic field. • Magnetic fields are utilized to successfully isolate cancer cells, attached to magnetic particles, within a microfluidic channel under real-time monitoring. • The captured cancer cells were successfully cultivated, allowing for subsequent drug response evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a tertiary bile acid synthesized by the liver and has various functions such as promoting bile secretion, antibacterial effect, inflammatory treatment, cholesterol reduction, and degradation. UDCA seems to be a material that can be applied in many aspects, such as adding it to implant coating materials or wound coatings. However, until now, only experiments and studies have been conducted to administer UDCA orally as a drug. In this paper, research was conducted to serve as a foothold for the application of UDCA to in vitro research. In this study, polymer fibers were prepared using electrospinning technology by mixing UDCA with Polycaprolactone(PCL), a biocompatible polymer. Through various analyses, it was confirmed that UDCA was contained in the electrospun membrane. In addition, it was confirmed that UDCA functions properly through the appearance of antimicrobial properties in antimicrobial experiments. The PCL/UDCA electrospun fiber prepared in this study and the analysis results using it show that UDCA can be applied not only to oral drugs but also to various fields such as wound coverings and stent coating membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In the present report, the fatty acid alkyl esters and fatty acid amides were synthesized from natural triglycerides by highly selective solvent‐free one‐step methods using 3.5‐CaO@KC‐400 nanocrystals as a heterogeneous catalyst. A modified wetness chemical impregnation method was used to prepared potassium carbonate‐doped CaO, ZnO, and MgO nanocrystals. The prepared 3.5‐CaO@KC‐400 nanocrystals were found as the most efficient heterogeneous catalyst (5%, w/w) for amidation (6:1 M ratio of diethanolamine/oil, 110°C) and transesterification (12:1 M ratio of methanol/oil, 65°C) of waste cooking oil and took 30 minutes for the completion of both the reactions. The 3.5‐CaO@KC‐400 nanocrystals were found to be efficient at room temperature also and reused for 10 reaction cycles for both reactions. The pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model was applied and the first‐order rate constant was calculated as 0.15 minute−1 and 0.103 minute−1 for the amidation and transesterification reactions of waste cooking oil, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Aminolyzed PLLA microcylinders were introduced to a GelMA-based bioink for a better printing experience. • The printed microcylinder-laden bioink proved to have higher resolution than pure GelMA ink. • The pre-osteoblasts printed with the novel bioink exhibited increased viability compared to the conventional bioink. Abstract Developing bioinks for 3D bioprinting that are easy to print and highly biocompatible is essential for the growth of the tissue engineering field. Here, a gelatin methacryloyl-based (GelMA) bioink that is loaded with aminolyzed poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) microcylinders is developed. The bioink showed better printing capabilities compared to pure GelMA, which exhibited a smaller window of high quality printability. The addition of microcylinders makes the bioink more forgiving to print by increasing its minimum viscosity while keeping its structural integrity after printing. Cell viability of printed constructs was compared to non-printed constructs to see the effects of shear stress in the new bioink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • PCL polymer and NPs emulsion coating method enhanced the compressive strength. • PCL polymer and NPs emulsion coating method conferred a BMP-2 release function. • PCL_BMP-2/NPs scaffold showed optimal cellular cytocompatibility. • PCL_BMP-2/NPs scaffold supported the environment and enhanced cell adhesion. • PCL_BMP-2/NPs scaffold enhanced bone formation in calvarial defect in vivo model. Abstract Hydroxyapatite (HAp)-based three-dimensional (3D) scaffolding is an excellent method for the fabrication of complex-shaped scaffolds to reconstruct bone defects. This study aimed at improving the osteoinductivity and compressive strength of the HAp-based 3D scaffold for bone regeneration. Bone morphogenetic protein-2–loaded nanoparticles (BMP-2/NPs) were prepared by a double emulsion-solvent evaporation method and incorporated onto the surface of 3D scaffolds using ε-polycaprolactone (PCL) and NPs emulsion solution. The surface morphology of the scaffold was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and its biocompatibility and osteogenic effects evaluated in vitro using human mesenchymal stem cells. The in vivo bone regeneration efficiency was determined using a rabbit calvarial bone defect model. We obtained 3D HAp scaffolds with NPs using PCL coating process. BMP-2/NPs were uniformly distributed on the scaffold surface and BMP-2 was gradually released. Furthermore, PCL coating improved the compressive strength of the scaffold. The cell proliferation, adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation properties were improved with PCL_BMP-2/NPs coated scaffold. In vivo experiments showed that the formation of new bone was significantly higher in the PCL_BMP-2/NPs group than in the uncoated scaffold-implanted group. The coating method using PCL and NPs emulsion solutions was useful not only to incorporate BMP-2/NPs onto the surface of the scaffold, but also to improve the compressive strength, which enhanced bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, nitrogen-doped tin oxide intercalated activated carbon nanocomposite (N-AC/SnO 2 ) were prepared using hydrothermal strategy and explored as an electrode for capacitive desalination and disinfection. Although tin oxide (SnO 2 ) has good characteristics, the nitrogen must be carefully considered for modifying the characteristics of the carbonaceous materials to improve the performance as an electrode in the CDI process. The characterization of the proposed materials which investigated by XRD, TEM, FE-SEM, XPS and FT-IR affirmed the formation of the nanocomposite. The electrosorption behavior investigated by electrochemical techniques demonstrates that, compared to the specific capacitance of the AC and AC/SnO 2 (207.46 F g −1 and 233.21 F g −1 ), that of the N-AC/SnO 2 is higher at 408.8 F g −1 , and N-AC/SnO 2 exhibits better electrical conductivity. The CDI performance evaluated by batch mode experiments through an applied voltage of 1.2 V in a 50 mg L −1 NaCl aqueous solution shows that the N-AC/SnO 2 electrode introduces a higher electrosorptive capacity of 3.42 mg g −1 , an enhanced desalination efficiency of 61.13%, and good antibacterial performance. Overall, the present study demonstrates that N-AC/SnO 2 has considerable potential as an electrode material for CDI application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single‐atomic catalysts based on ruthenium have a balanced efficiency for water splitting, but it is necessary to control their activity and durability. In this work, a binder‐free Fe2‐xRuxNb2O6 (FRNO) hybrid catalyst is rationally designed through a facile hydrogel‐crosslinking route. The as‐prepared FRNO catalyst exhibits high electrocatalytic activity and stability when operating under acidic (0.5 m H2SO4) and alkaline (1 m KOH) media. Operando X‐ray adsorption and density functional theory calculations show that FRNO/CC, with its high intrinsic conductivity, promotes the adsorption and dissociation of water on its surface by regulating the charge distribution via charge transfer to the coordinated surface oxygen. This facilitates the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance by stabilizing *OOH adsorption on Ru and Fe. The FRNO/carbon cloth (CC) hybrid catalyst also delivers excellent activity and stability for both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and OER in pH‐universal electrolytes with low overpotentials of 30 mV per 82 mV for HER and 200 mV per 260 mV for OER at a current density of 10 mA cm‐2 in acidic/basic medium. Ultimately, the FRNO/CC hybrid catalyst shows good water‐splitting performance, and it is expected to help contribute to the creation of various hybrid electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tissue engineering composite scaffold serves as a temporary skeleton to accommodate and stimulate new tissue growth. Here we report the development of a biodegradable porous composite scaffold made from the bioactive chitosan (CHN) and hyaluronic acid (HYA) with graphene oxide (GO). The CHN–HYA–GO composite scaffold was successfully prepared and compared with CHN-HYA composite scaffold and found that CHN–HYA–GO significantly improved mechanical and biological properties. Moreover, the CHN–HYA–GO composite scaffold possessed an adequate porosity, swelling behavior and degradation rate to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) with a favorable cell attachment and proliferation. The cells in contact with CHN–HYA–GO composite scaffolds remained viable and exhibited a high growth potential. Therefore the uniquely fabricated CHN–HYA–GO composite scaffolds possess great potential for various tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO 2 -based bioceramics have been widely studied because of their biocompatibility, chemical stability, photocatalytic properties, and controllable size and shape. Surface modification techniques for TiO 2 have been utilized to enhance its mechanical and biological characteristics for future applications in dentistry, implants, and tissue engineering. In this study, we developed a simplified method for constructing TiO 2 -based bioceramics coated with Zein and calcium phosphate. The newly synthesized TiO 2 -based composite material was micro/nano-sized, multilayered, and exhibited a bone-like apatite-grown structure. The proposed modification method enabled the feasible design of materials with natural bone-like components on the surface, thereby facilitating effective osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, improved biodegradability was confirmed by electrochemical anti-corrosion analysis. The successfully prepared materials mitigated some issues related to cytotoxicity and anti-angiogenesis, while simultaneously enhancing cellular interactions. The capability to stimulate angiogenesis in HUVECs and osteogenic differentiation in MC3T3-E1 cells was demonstrated through in vitro tests. Thus, this work presents a simplified and promising coating strategy using zein on the surface of TiO 2 nanoparticles, followed by optimal bone-like apatite formation, offering potential biomaterials for treating bone defects and traumatic injuries. • Simplified zein nanolayer coating on TiO2 with bone-like apatite formation. • Biopolymer zein coating on TiO2 mitigates cytotoxicity and enhances biocompatibility. • Engineered composite interfaces on nanoparticles promote the migration of endothelial cells. • CaP/Zein/TiO2 bioceramics accelerate osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal imaging plays a vital role in structural health monitoring of various materials and provides insight into the defect present due to aging, deterioration, and fault during construction. This study investigated the effectiveness of spatial filters during pre-processing of thermal images and a correlation technique in post-processing, as well as exploited its application in non-destructive testing and evaluation of defects in steel structures. Two linear filters (i.e., Gaussian and Window Averaging) and a non-linear filter (i.e., Median) were implemented during pre-processing of a pulsed thermography image sequence. The effectiveness of implemented filters was then assessed using signal to noise ratio as a quality metric. The result of pre-processing revealed that each implemented filter is capable of reducing impulse noise and producing high-quality images; additionally, when comparing the signal to noise ratio, the Gaussian filter dominated both Window Averaging and Median filters. Defect size was determined using a correlation technique on a sequence of pulsed thermography images that had been pre-processed with a Gaussian filter. Finally, it is concluded that the correlation technique could be applied to the fast measurement of defect size, even though the accuracy may depend on the detection limit of thermography and defect size to depth ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) attracted unprecedented attention due to energy saving during the deionization process. Based on its excellent characteristics, graphene can be considered an optimum CDI electrode material. However, pristine graphene is still far from the anticipated results. In this study, to improve the electrochemical characteristics, TiO 2 nanorod intercalation between graphene nanosheets was successfully performed by hydrothermal treatment. The morphology, crystal structure and elemental analysis were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. The electrochemical properties were evaluated by a cyclic voltammetry (CV) test. Moreover, the desalination activity was checked in MCDI unit. Furthermore, the influence of TiO 2 loading was studied. It was found that the synthesized reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/TiO 2 nanorod composite having 20 wt.% TiO 2 revealed a remarkable specific capacitance of ~ 443 F/g which is nine fold more than that of the pristine rGO at 10 mV/s. In the MCDI cell, the introduced nanocomposite showed high reversibility, excellent cycling stability, full regeneration and distinguished electrosorptive capacity (9.1 mg/g) under an applied potential of 0.8 V and initial salt concentration of ~ 300 mg/L. Overall, the proposed rGO/TiO 2 nanorod composite electrode can be considered a promising material for CDI applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, titanium dioxide nanoparticles were synthesized employing a simple sol-gel method followed by calcination at four different temperatures (450 °C, 650 °C, 850 °C, and 1050 °C). Effect of calcination temperature on surface morphology, particle shape and size, phase transitions, optical properties, and osteogenic differentiation were then studied. Phase changes (anatase, anatase-rutile, and rutile) of TiO 2 nanoparticle were observed as the calcination temperature increased to 450 °C, 650 °C, 850 °C, and 1050 °C. The surface morphology also transformed from smooth to granular as the calcination temperature increased from 450 °C to 1050 °C. The particle size of titanium dioxide nanoparticles was found to be about ∼ 300 nm. It remained almost the same as the calcination temperature increased from 450 °C to 850 °C. Optical spectra of TiO 2 nanoparticles prepared at 450, 650, and 850 °C showed maximum absorbance in the visible-NIR region whereas TiO 2 nanoparticles prepared at 1050 °C displayed maximum absorbance in the UV region with a distorted morphology. TiO 2 nanoparticles prepared at 450 °C and 650 °C were found to have excellent biocompatibility as suggested by cell viability analysis using fibroblasts. In addition, hBM-MSCs were used to evaluate osteogenic differentiation of different structural phases of TiO 2 nanoparticles calcined at various temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of particle size and other injection factors on the skin penetration of nanoparticles delivered with a needle-free injector. Experimental and simulation tests were carried out at various parameters. In addition to testing different sizes of nanoparticles, we also observed the effects of several injection pressures and syringe orifice diameters (SOD) on the dispersion pattern of the nanoparticles after injection. Our results showed that as the nanoparticle size increased from 45 nm to 452 nm, the resulting puncture opening, channel diameter, and depth of the nanoparticle dispersion decreased, but the width of the dispersion increased. Conversely, as the SOD increased, the puncture opening, channel diameter, and depth of the dispersion increased, but width of the dispersion decreased. Increasing the injection pressure also decreased the size, depth, and width of the puncture opening. These results identify how these three parameters affect nanoparticle delivery from a needle-free injector; therefore, our findings will be beneficial for optimization and further study of needle-free injectors as a mechanism for transdermal delivery of nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, we report the effect of annealing (250–700 oC) on the phase transition and morphology of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) on/in titanium dioxide (TiO2) rods prepared using a polyol method. The annealed samples showed not only morphological change, i.e., a solid-to-liquid (melting) transition of Ag NPs due to its partial dissolution into the TiO2 rods, but also early stage anatase crystallization and anatase–rutile transformation of TiO2 rods under low annealing temperatures. Such findings, together with XRD and FE-SEM analyses, confirm that, upon higher annealing treatment, diffusion and coalescence leads to changes in the size and shape of the metal particles not only in the outermost regions, but also a random distribution and progressive growth of Ag clusters in the inner interface region. Here, it was shown that annealing can induce changes in morphology, as well as the chemical state and structure of Ag–TiO2. The present polyol-synthesized Ag–TiO2 composite also showed improved thermal stability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The synthesis of ideal bioceramics to guide the fate of cells and subsequent bone regeneration within the chemical, biological, and physical microenvironment is a challenging long-term task. This study developed amorphous calcium magnesium phosphate (ACMP) bioceramics via a simple co-precipitation method. The role of Mg2+ in the formation of ACMP is investigated using physicochemical and biological characterization at different Ca/Mg molar ratio of the initial reaction solution. Additionally, ACMP bioceramics show superior cytocompatibility and improved osteogenic differentiation of co-cultured MC3T3-E1 cells. Regulation of the microenvironment with Mg2+ can promote early-stage bone regeneration. For this, bioprinting technology is employed to prepare ACMP-modified 3D porous structures. Our hypothesis is that the incorporation of ACMP into methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) bioink can trigger the osteogenic differentiation of encapsulated preosteoblast and stimulate bone regeneration. The cell-laden ACMP composite structures display stable printability and superior cell viability and cell proliferation. Also, constructs loading the appropriate amount of ACMP bioceramic showed significant osteogenic differentiation activity compared to the pure GelMA. We demonstrate that the dissolved Mg2+ cation microenvironment in ACMP-modified composite constructs plays an effective biochemical role, and can regulate cell fate. Our results predict that GelMA/ACMP bioink has significant potential in patient-specific bone tissue regeneration. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone defects pose significant challenges in orthopedic surgery, often leading to suboptimal outcomes and complications. Addressing these challenges, we employed a three-electrode electrochemical system to fabricate surface-controlled polyaniline nano-tulips (PANINTs) decorated polycaprolactone (PCL) reinforced chitosan functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles (CS- f -Fe 2 O 3) scaffolds. These structures were designed to emulate the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) and promote enhanced osseointegration by establishing a continuous interface between host bone and graft, thereby improving both biological processes and mechanical stability. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PANINTs-PCL/CS- f -Fe 2 O 3 substrates significantly promoted the proliferation, differentiation, and spontaneous outgrowth and extension of MC3T3-E1 cell activity. The nanomaterials exhibited increased cell viability and osteogenic differentiation, as evidenced by elevated expression of bone-related markers such as ALP, ARS, COL-I, RUNX2, and SPP-I, as determined by qRT-PCR. Our findings underscore the regenerative potential of in situ cell culture systems for bone defects, emphasizing the targeted stimulation of essential cell subpopulations to facilitate rapid bone tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To detect traces of Sn2+ explored by theoretical and experimental methods a naphthoquinone-based colorimetric and fluorometric chemosensor has been developed. [Display omitted] • Naphthoquinone-based colorimetric and fluorometric chemosensor has been fabricated to detect trace amount of Sn2+. • The chemosensor underwent a remarkable color change from light maroon to white in the presence of Sn2+. • The chemosensor achieves 0.167 μM of the detection limit. • The coordination mechanism was activated through the conversion of C O into C OH group due to the reducing ability of Sn2+. • The chemosensing probe 2CAN-Dione was successfully used to sense trace quantity of Sn2+ ions in live cells. An aminophenol-linked naphthoquinone-based fluorometric and colorimetric chemosensor 2-chloro-3-((3-hydroxyphenyl) amino) naphthalene-1,4-dione (2CAN-Dione) was synthesized for selective detection of Sn2+ ion in aqueous solution. The amine and conversion of carbonyl into carboxyl groups play a vital role in the sensing mechanism when Sn2+ is added to 2CAN-Dione. Comprehensive characterization of the sensor was carried out using standard spectral and analytical approaches. Because of the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) effect and the turn-on sensing mode, the strong fluorometric emission towards Sn2+ was observed at about 435 nm. The chemosensor exhibited good selectivity for Sn2+ in the presence of coexisting metal ions. An improved linear connection was established with a low limit of detection (0.167 μM). FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and quantum chemistry methods were performed to verify the binding coordination mechanism. The chemosensing probe 2CAN-Dione was successfully employed in bioimaging investigations, demonstrating that it is a reliable fluorescent marker for Sn2+ in human cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of polymer-based wearable, eco-friendly, and non-invasive sensors has been boosted by the rapid emergence and evolution of soft electronics. However, challenges in the catalysis of glucose and sweat sampling have hampered these advances in the development of efficient wearable glucose sensors. Herein, the porous Co 1.22x Ni x O 4 hybrid composite material with interconnecting fMWCNTs, referred to as Co 1.22x Ni x O 4 /fMWCNTs, was hydrothermally synthesized, and covalently crosslinked into well-patterned, flexible PDMS polymer networks. The hydrophilic fMWCNTs enhanced the anchoring spots for the in situ growth of NiCo–Oxides, which significantly improved the conductive networks and introduced many interface zones with high sensitivity of (1190.9 and 1312.1) µA·mM−1·cm−2, wide linear range of (0.001 − 8.0) mM, low detection limit (20 μM), good long-term stability, and excellent selectivity in alkaline solution. A prototype sensor was fabricated by assembling transparent PDMS film with a hydrophilic membrane of supramolecular double network hydrogel (SP−DN) as adhesive, and breathable substrate for sweat collection. The sensitivity of the calibrated prototype was found to be 1326.83 µA·mM−1·cm−2 with a linear range of ≤ 800 µM, tested in artificial sweat samples. The feasibility of a non-invasive glucose sensor was validated by assembling and testing prototype sensors on multiple volunteers. The SP−DN hydrogel acts as a continuous OH− ion supplier, and makes it possible to oxidize the glucose by metal-oxide-based nano-enzyme. The facile fabrication method and reliability of the results with real blood samples show the potential of the metal-oxide-based sensor prototype as a flexible, and environment-adaptable sensing device. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of fMWCNTs integrated highly active Co 1.22x Ni x O 4 /fMWCNTs nano-enzyme with wide linear range of (0.001 − 8.0) mM • Co 1.22x Ni x O 4 /fMWCNTs possessed high electrocatalytic activities with excellent sensitivity and selectivity • Validation of real-time performance of Co 1.22x Ni x O 4 /fMWCNTs by engineering it to adhesive, flexible, and wearable substrate • Developed sensor retained adequate long-term stability with the ultimate OH−-reservoir [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels, integrating diverse biocompatible materials, have emerged as promising candidates for bone repair applications. This study presents a double network hydrogel designed for bone tissue engineering, combining poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and chitosan (CS) crosslinked through UV polymerization and ionic crosslinking. Concurrently, copper-doped mesoporous silica nanospheres (Cu-MSNs) were synthesized using a one-pot method. Cu-MSNs underwent additional modification through in-situ biomineralization, resulting in the formation of an apatite layer. Polydopamine was employed to facilitate the deposition of Calcium (Ca) and Phosphate (P) ions on the surface of Cu-MSNs (Cu-MSNs/PDA@CaP). Composite hydrogels were created by integrating varied concentrations of Cu-MSNs/PDA@CaP (25, 50, 100, 150, 200 μg/mL). Characterization unveiled distinctive interconnected porous structures within the composite hydrogel, showcasing a notable 169.6 % enhancement in compressive stress (elevating from 89.01 to 240.19 kPa) compared to pure PEGDA. In vitro biocompatibility experiments illustrated that the composite hydrogel maintained elevated cell viability (up to 106.6 %) and facilitated rapid cell proliferation over 7 days. The hydrogel demonstrated a substantial 57.58 % rise in ALP expression and a surprising 235.27 % increase in ARS staining. Moreover, it significantly enhanced the expression of crucial osteogenic genes, such as run-related transcription factors 2 (RUNX2), collagen 1a1 (Col1a1), and secreted phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1), establishing it as a promising scaffold for bone regeneration. This study shows how Cu-MSNs/PDA@CaP were successfully integrated into a double network hydrogel, resulting in a composite material with good biological responses. Due to its improved characteristics, this composite hydrogel holds the potential for advancing bone regeneration procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic CoS 2 has attracted considerable interest for the catalysis of electrochemical reactions; however, its catalytic activity is still lower than that of commercial novel metal-based catalysts. Semiconductive 2H-MoS 2 also holds a high capability for catalysis. In this work, a rationally designed Mott-Schottky heterojunction of ultrasmall MoS 2 nanoparticles/CoS 2 nanotube arrays is constructed via an effective synthetic protocol. Because of the difference in the Fermi level of the metallic CoS 2 and semiconducting MoS 2 , strong Mott-Schottky interaction occurs at their heterointerface to gain equalization, resulting in the optimization of intermediates adsorption energies, thereby favoring the reaction kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and urea oxidation reaction (UOR). Consequently, the proposed catalyst yields high current densities at small HER and OER overpotentials or low UOR potentials, small Tafel slopes, and desirable stability, confirming its excellent electrocatalytic activities for these key half-reactions toward significantly boosting water and urea electrolysis. [Display omitted] • An advanced multifunctional electrocatalyst for water splitting and urea electrolysis is reported. • Mott-Schottky heterojunction of MoS 2 nanoparticles/CoS 2 nanotubes demonstrates great potential in water splitting for green hydrogen production. • Mott-Schottky heterojunction of MoS 2 nanoparticles/CoS 2 nanotubes shows excellent catalytic activity for urea electrolysis toward energy-saving hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bronsted and Lewis mixed base 2.5-Li@CaO-Ca(OH) 2 -450 nanocatalyst. • High surface area and high basic strength of prepared nanocatalyst. • One-step and two-step amidation of non-edible high free fatty acid containing triglycerides with 99 % yield. • The prepared catalyst showed excellent reusability and structural stability. • The amide derivative was found as a dual functional diesel fuel additive. In the present study, the 2.5-Li@CaO-Ca(OH) 2 -450 nanocatalyst (a mixture of Bronsted base Ca(OH) 2 and Lewis base CaO) of 30−50 nm size nanoparticles was prepared by a simple wet-chemical method and utilized as a heterogeneous solid catalyst for the one-step and two-step amidation of non-edible high free fatty acids containing triglycerides (TGR) such as waste cooking oil (CO), Karanja oil (KO) and jatropha oil (JO). The 2.5-Li@CaO-Ca(OH) 2 -450 nanocatalyst took 45 min, 75 min, and 120 min for the complete one-step amidation (99 % yield) of CO, KO, and JO, respectively. In two-step amidation, the prepared nanocatalyst took 30 min and 45 min in the first step to prepare fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) and fatty acid ethyl ester (FAEE) from CO and then took 20 min and 30 min for complete amidation of FAME and FAEE. The first-order rate constants for the amidation of TGR, FAEE, and FAME were calculated as 0.10 min−1, 0.151 min−1, and 0.225 min−1, respectively. The 2.5-Li@CaO-Ca(OH) 2 -450 nanocatalyst was recycled and reused for ten reaction cycles for amidation and also found to complete amidation at room temperature (25−30 °C). The prepared amide derivative acted as a dual functional diesel fuel additive and found to improve the cetane number from 52.6 to 56.1 and lubricity from 460 to 247 μm of diesel fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an integrated design and fabrication strategy for the development of hierarchically structured biomechanically and biologically functional tissue scaffold. An integration of β-TCP incorporated fluffy type nanofibers and biodegradable interpenetrating gelatin-hydrogel networks (IGN) result in biomimetic tissue engineered constructs with fully tunable properties that can match specific tissue requirements. FESEM images showed that nanofibers were efficiently assembled into an orientation of IGN without disturbing its pore architecture. The pore architecture, compressive stiffness and modulus, swelling, and the biological properties of the composite constructs can be tailored by adjusting the composition of nanofiber content with respect to IGN. Experimental results of cell proliferation assay and confocal microscopy imaging showed that the as-fabricated composite constructs exhibit excellent ability for MC3T3-E1 cell proliferation, infiltration and growth. Furthermore, β-TCP incorporated functionalized nanofiber enhanced the biomimetic mineralization, cell infiltration and cell proliferation. Within two weeks of cell-seeding, the composite construct exhibited enhanced osteogenic performance (Runx2, osterix and ALP gene expression) compared to pristine IGN hydrogel scaffold. Our integrated design and fabrication approach enables the assembly of nanofiber within IGN architecture, laying the foundation for biomimetic scaffold. • Biomimetic scaffold with channel-like macroporous architecture is developed. • First time bioactive fluffy type nanofibous mesh is integrated with GelMA hydrogel. • Nanofibers were efficiently assembled an orientation of hydrogel network. • Fibers do not interrupt the macroporous architecture of GelMA. • The pore architecture, stiffness, modulus, and the bioactivity can tailored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a drug eluting scaffold composed of a composite nanofibers of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) loaded with Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HANPs) and simvastatin (SIM) mimicking the bone extracellular matrix (ECM) to improve bone cell proliferation and regeneration process. Indeed, the addition of PGS results in a slight increase in the average fiber diameter compared to PCL. However, the presence of HANPs in the composite nanofibers induced a greater fiber diameter distribution, without significantly changing the average fiber diameter. The in vitro drug release result revealed that the sustained release of SIM from the composite nanofiber obeying the Korsemeyer–Peppas and Kpocha models revealing a non-Fickian diffusion mechanism and the release mechanism follows diffusion rather than polymer erosion. Biomineralization assessment of the nanofibers was carried out in simulated body fluid (SBF). SEM and EDS analysis confirmed nucleation of the hydroxyapatite layer on the surface of the composite nanofibers mimicking the natural apatite layer. Moreover, in vitro studies revealed that the PCL-PGS-HA displayed better cell proliferation and adhesion compared to the control sample, hence improving the regeneration process. This suggests that the fabricated PCL-PGS-HA could be a promising future scaffold for control drug delivery and bone tissue regeneration application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research interest in boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) has increased after the recent success of large-scale BNNT syntheses using high-temperature-pressure laser ablation or high-temperature plasma methods. Nonetheless, there are limits to the application and commercialization of these materials because of the difficulties associated with their fine structural control. Herein, the growth kinetics of BNNTs were systemically studied for this purpose. The growth pressure of the nitrogen feed gas was varied while the growth temperature remained constant, which was confirmed by black body radiation measurements and calculations based on a heat loss model. Changing from the diffusion-limited regime to the supply-limited regime of growth kinetics based on the optimized BNNT synthesis condition afforded the control of the number of BNNT walls. The total amount of BNNTs possessing single and double walls was over 70%, and the BNNT surface area increased to 278.2 m2/g corresponding to small wall numbers and diameters. Taking advantage of the large surface area and high-temperature durability of the material, BNNTs utilized as a recyclable adsorbent for water purification. The efficiency of the BNNTs for capturing methylene blue particles in water was approximately 94%, even after three repetition cycles, showing the potential of the material for application in the filter industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pH-sensitive polymeric carrier was developed in this study for local delivery of anticancer drug bortezomib (BTZ) to cancer cells. Our strategy is based on the conjugation of BTZ to polymeric carriers containing catechol groups, which are considered to release BTZ selectively in cancer cells. In this study we used alginate-conjugated polydopamine as a building block polymer. The catechol moiety of polydopamine binds to the boronic acid group of BTZ drug and release the drug molecules in a pH-dependent method. Cancer tissue has acidic environment where BTZ dissociate from the catechol group of polydopamine to control the release of the free drug. Mathematical equation models were used to clarify the mechanism of drug release. The release profile fitted first order with correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.98), the release mechanism was studied using Korsmeyer–Peppas, Higuchi, Hixson-Crowell, and Kopcha models. We revealed the release mechanism follows non-fickian and diffusion was the dominant mechanism while small portion contributed to erosion. The pH-sensitive mechanism controls the release of BTZ in targeted cancer cells, hence developing a novel idea that is applicable in future towards other boronic acid-containing drugs to treat various kinds of health challenges. • The AlgPD-BTZ hydrogel presented a chemo selective approach for cancer chemotherapy. • Sustained release profile of BTZ in pH dependent manner • In-depth study of kinetics and mechanism of drug release • The AlgPD-BTZ hydrogel shows remarkable cytotoxicity to cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We developed a highly flexible PUC-PANI-ZnO@GOx electrode for glucose sensing. • The sensor exhibits a high enzyme immobilization capacity. • Displayed high sensitivity of ∼998.72 µAmM−1 cm−2 and LOD ∼7.31 µM. • PUC-PANI-ZnO@GOx opens a sustainable approach for high-performance wearable sensors. Designing and fabrication of immensely accurate, affordable, sensitive, and portable glucose sensors is rapidly increasing in clinical applications. However, commercialization of wearable sensors has been impeded by inadequate conductivity, insufficient durability, poor flexibility, and enzyme immobilization. Herein, a scalable approach for fabricating a nanofiber-based highly electroactive, flexible, and disposable (PUC-PANI-ZnO@GOx) sensor that can assess glucose stimuli with sufficient liquid permeability by anchoring ZnO nanosheets over polyaniline (PANI) coated polyurethane-chitosan (PU-Chitosan; PUC) fibrous mat followed by glucose oxidase (GOx) immobilization is described. Regarding the electrocatalytic performance, PUC-PANI-ZnO@GOx sensor showed a high sensitivity (∼998.72 µA mM−1 cm−2) and a low detection limit (∼7.31 µM) for a broad linear range of 0.01 – 9.48 mM with acceptable stability and reproducibility. The fabricated sensor was highly selective towards glucose in the presence of exogenous and endogenous interfering species. To the best of our knowledge, this novel polymer-based nanocomposite adorned on nanofiber substrate was utilized for the first time for the fabrication of a flexible glucose sensor. It can be used for producing a large-scale, cost-effective, and high-performing sensor. Hence, this sustainable and eco-friendly approach can lead to new techniques for designing next-generation wearable and implantable glucose sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N,N-Bis(2-hydroxyethyl) alkylamide or fatty acid diethanolamides (FADs) were prepared from a variety of triglycerides using diethanolamine in the presence of different transition metal-doped CaO nanocrystalline heterogeneous catalysts. The Zn-doped Cao nanospheroids were found to be the most efficient heterogeneous catalyst, with complete conversion of natural triglycerides to fatty acid diethanolamide in 30 min at 90 °C. The Zn/CaO nanoparticles were recyclable for up to six reaction cycles and showed complete conversion even at room temperature. The amidation reaction of natural triglycerides was found to follow the pseudo-first-order kinetic model, and the first-order rate constant was calculated as 0.171 min−1 for jatropha oil aminolysis. The activation energy (Ea) and pre-exponential factor (A) for the same reaction were found to be 47.8 kJ mol−1 and 4.75 × 108 min−1, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, many researchers have studied a considerable number of three-dimensional (3D) cotton-like electrospun scaffolds for tissue engineering, including the generation of bone, cartilage, and skin tissue. Although numerous 3D electrospun fibrous matrixes have been successfully developed, additional research is needed to produce 3D patterned and sophisticated structures. The development of 3D fibrous matrixes with patterned and sophisticated structures (FM-PSS) capable of mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) is important for advancing tissue engineering. Because modulating nano to microscale features of the 3D fibrous scaffold to control the ambient microenvironment of target tissue cells can play a pivotal role in inducing tissue morphogenesis after transplantation in a living system. To achieve this objective, the 3D FM-PSSs were successfully generated by the electrospinning using a directional change of the sharply inclined array collector. The 3D FM-PSSs overcome the current limitations of conventional electrospun cotton-type 3D matrixes of random fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Unique three-dimensional graphene/mixed transition metal oxides modified activated carbon was prepared and characterized. • The nanocomposite electrode shows low charge transfer resistance and high specific capacitance. • Analysis of synchrotron-based hard X-ray absorption spectroscopy. • The fabricated nanocomposite exhibits a high electrosorption capacity of 9.34 mg g−1. Over the last two decades, the capacitive deionization (CDI) technique has been developed into a high performance, low-cost, and environmental-friendly desalination technology. The development of novel advanced nanostructures via the hybridization of diverse carbon materials to improve the performance of CDI technology has attracted considerable attention. In this study, the combination of graphene hydrogel and ZrO 2 -doped TiO 2 nanofibers as efficient dopants into activated carbon (AC), has been achieved through a simple electrospinning technique followed by a post annealing process. The strong interactions between the graphene hydrogel, nanofibers and AC were found to enhance the wettability as well as the electrical conductivity of the AC. The morphology and electrochemical performance of the as-synthesized composite were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). What's more, the X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and synchrotron X-ray absorption structures (XAS) are performed to investigate the atomic and electronic structure of titania and zirconia in order to understand their phase stability. We observed the appearance of anatase structure of titania and cubic structure of zirconia after doping the AC and graphene hydrogel with the nanofibers. The water contact angle of the composite was examined and found to be less than 3°. The introduced nanocomposite showed high electrosorption capacity of 9.34 mg g−1 at the initial solution conductivity of ∼100 μS cm−1, which is much higher compared to the other surveyed materials; these results should be attributed to its significant hydrophilicity, high specific capacitance, and reduced charge transfer resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fibrous scaffold, fully assimilating polyurethane (PU) and silk fibroin associated with functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f MWCNTs) was developed by electrospinning technique. Herein, we engineered the PU/Silk fibroin- f MWCNTs-based biomaterial that shows great promise as electrospun scaffolds for neuronal growth and differentiation, because of its unique mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, and biodegradability, with outstanding biocompatibility in nerve tissue engineering. The morphology and structural properties of the scaffolds were studied using various techniques. In particular, the presence of f MWCNTs enhances the electrical conductivity and plausible absorption of sufficient extracellular matrix (ECM). The in vitro tests revealed that the aligned scaffolds (PU/Silk- f MWCNTs) significantly stimulated the growth and proliferation of Schwann cells (S42), together with the differentiation and spontaneous neurite outgrowth of rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells that were particularly guided along the axis of fiber alignment. The conductive PU/Silk- f MWCNTs scaffold significantly improves neural expression in vitro with successful axonal regrowth, which was confirmed by immunocytochemistry and qRT-PCR analysis. Inspired by the comprehensive experimental results, the f MWCNTs-based scaffold affords new insight into nerve-guided conduit design from both conductive and protein rich standpoints, and opens a new perspective on peripheral nerve restoration in preclinical applications. • Polyurethane-silk/multiwall carbon nanotubes based aligned electrospun scaffold was fabricated. • A protein rich biomaterial showed high mechanical strength and good electrical conductivity. • PC12 cells are well proliferated and differentiated on scaffold along with fibers orientation. • The scaffold exhibited strong bioactivity, suited for in vitro nerve cell regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Here we developed a semi-interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogel obtained by free radical polymerization to fabricate a coated stent with the aim of incorporating a natural topography present in the human body to improve biological activity. The method involves sandwiching a bare metal stent in the semi-IPN hydrogel via solution cast molding. The bio-functionality of the membrane could be tuned by incorporating Polydopamine into the matrix, and also the mechanical property was optimized by choosing an adequate concentration of acrylamide. The coating containing polydopamine hydrogel showed good mechanical stability under continuous flow condition, as demonstrated by crimping and deployment into a catheter without damage. Stent polymer bonding was enhanced via polydopamine incorporation in the matrix. The non-thrombogenicity of the coating containing hydrogel was confirmed through dynamic hemocompatibility studies in vitro. Vascular simulations, including other biomechanical performance, like durability testing, radial strength, and recoil, were demonstrated. The dopamine containing hydrogel membrane (DCHM) was found to promote cell material interaction due to the ability of the catechol to bind protein and induce HUVECs cytoplasmic spreading, proliferation, and migration, with reduced smooth muscle cell (SMCs) activity. SMCs inhibition correlated well with the amount of incorporated catechol in the matrix. Our results show that this material used as coated stent could be more effective in suppressing platelet aggregation with improved haemocompatibility/biocompatibility for faster re-endothelialization than bare metal stent (BMS). Highlights • 2D modeling of hydrogel coated stent for improved hemodynamics in contrast to bare metal stent was proposed. • Incorporating PU as a second network in the IPN hydrogel greatly improve the mechanical property. • The fabricated membrane creates a stable coating that enable delivery via non-invasive approach (catheter). • Incorporation of Polydopamine in the matrix enhance HUVECs viability/ proliferation and suppresses SMCs viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The PCL/CA/LA fiber mat was simply obtained by conventional electrospinning method. • The as-fabricated composite membrane was simply treated with CaOH 2. • Calcium lactate (CaL) was synthesized by reaction between LA and CaOH 2. • Cellulose acetate (CA) content was deacetylated into cellulose (CE). • CE and CaL were simultaneously generated in a one-step post-electrospinning process. Abstract Synthetic polymers are easy to process and have excellent mechanical properties but low wettability and poor cell compatibility limit their applications in tissue scaffolding. In this study, a facile procedure was established to regenerate cellulose and calcium lactate (CaL) into a polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibrous scaffold for tissue engineering applications. Briefly, varying amounts of lactic acid (LA) was mixed with the blend of PCL and cellulose acetate (CA) solutions and electrospun to fabricate an optimal composite PCL/CA/LA fibrous membrane. Later on, as-prepared membranes were treated with calcium hydroxide solution. This process simultaneously converted CA and LA contents into Cellulose and CaL, respectively. In situ regeneration of Cellulose and CaL into the composite fiber remarkably enhanced the biological and physicochemical properties of the composite fiber. This work provides a novel dual-channel strategy for simultaneous regeneration of biopolymer and bioactive molecule into the PCL nanofiber for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Incorporation proper amount of SIM and β-TCP particles into the FCN mat improved the biomineralization process. • Kopcha model used to study kinetics of the drug release. • The FCN mat improved the osteoblast cell proliferation and adhesion. Abstract The aim of this study is to develop a novel functional composite nanofiber (FCN) loaded beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and simvastatin (SIM) FCN mat for bone tissue regeneration. The advantage of electrospinning technique was considered for the uniform distribution of β-TCP and SIM drug. In vitro drug release study performed in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) showed the controlled and sustained release of SIM, and the Kopcha model was used to investigate the drug release mechanism. The morphology of the electrospun nanofibers was investigated using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Assessment of the in vitro bioactivity of the nanofibers was carried out in simulated body fluid (SBF). FE-SEM and EDS analysis confirmed the formation of an apatite-like layer. Moreover, in vitr o studies revealed that the FCN mat displayed better cell proliferation and adhesion than merely control fiber. This suggests versatile applications of the fabricated FCN mat for control drug delivery and bone tissue regeneration application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A highly conductive electroactive polyaniline (PANI) was electrodeposited uniformly on titania nanotubes (TNTs) substrate. • Titania nanotubes-polyaniline (TNTs-PANI) showed antibacterial activity and corrosion resistivity. • The biointerface TNTs-PANI was used as basal substrate for PC12 cells regeneration and differentiation. • The flexible TNTs-PANI substrate accelerated the neurites outgrowth of PC12 cells. Abstract Biologically active conjugated polymers, for example polyaniline (PANI), have drawn attention as emerging materials for applications in bio-medical implant devices, due to their inherent abilities with regard to charge-carrier properties, and their ability to immobilize biomolecules or proteins. Herein, we report an electrocoating of PANI on titania nanotubes (TNTs) via electrochemical oxidation of aniline with PANI layers of appropriate thickness (∼274 nm). Uniform titanium oxide nanotubes were first developed from titanium (Ti) foil through an anodization process, followed by calcination to obtain high purity TNTs vertically aligned on a Ti substrate. These had a large surface area, controllable tube height and diameter, and were highly biocompatible, and doping with PANI further improved their properties, like being antibacterial, having a lower charge transfer resistance (22.51 Ω) and strong anti-corrosion behavior (E corr ∼ − 184 mV, I corr ∼ 9.7 × 10−7 Amp). In vitro experiments revealed that the cellular functions of PC12 and S42 cells on TNTs-PANI scaffolds show characteristic improvement in proliferation and differentiation owning to approach neuronal cells activation associated with axonal growth and migration in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Thus, the flexible bioactive substrate is capable of stimulating neuronal cells, and can inspire neural transduction through direct neural interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • RH affects the generation of the 3D cotton-like piezoelectric electrospun scaffold. • When RH was increased to critical point, repulsion of spinning-jet was raised. • Raised repulsion helped the fibers to electrospin in the form of fluffy construct. Abstract Three-dimensional (3D), highly porous, and low-density fibrous scaffolds have attracted significant interest in recent years for applications in tissue engineering. However, the fabrication of 3D fluffy fibrous piezoelectric scaffolds remains a challenge. In this study, we report the dramatic effect that relative humidity (RH) has on the deposition of 3D cotton-like constructs composed of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric nanofibers mixed with Barium Titanate (BT) and multiwalled-carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The 30 mm diameter deposits were fabricated under variable humidity conditions while all other parameters were kept constant. Two types of fibrous architecture, 3D fluffy and two-dimensional (2D) membrane types, are recognized, as the RH during electrospinning varies. A fiber morphology transition takes place at certain RH, and the 3D cotton-like nanofibrous structure has been optimized above 90% RH. The fabrication of the 3D cotton-like fibrous piezoelectric scaffold may provide new insights for various applications in tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The electrospinning was developed for fabrication of collagen mimetic scaffold. • With addition of LA, LA assisted formation of 3D cotton-like fibrous structure. • The physicochemical properties of the as-fabricated scaffold were evaluated. Abstract The ability to mimic the topography of aligned collagen fiber bundles (A-CFB) that form the structural basis for the extracellular matrix (ECM) can be an important step in the fabrication of engineered scaffolds. Because the cell adhesion to the surface topography involve cell adhesion localized structures, topographical features, which mimics the A-CFB of the matrix can be a significant factor for cell activities. In this study, we present a novel method for the fabrication of low-density electrospun fibers mimicking A-CFB constructs. The three dimensional (3D) cotton-like A-CFB mimetic scaffold (3D-CACMS) of a mixture of lactic acid (LA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) was prepared by multiple pins rotator electrospinning (MPRES), followed by selective leaching of LA. The results of SEM, FTIR, TGA, and DSC revealed the physicochemical properties of the as-fabricated scaffold. This 3D-CACMS attempt to mimic A-CFB and can potentially meet the requirements for practical use of biomedical engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In recent years, capacitive deionization (CDI) has attracted intensive research due to its environmentally-friendly nature and low power requirement. Although the characteristics of titania (TiO 2) and zirconia (ZrO 2) are almost the same, ZrO 2 has not attracted the same attention since the characteristics of the carbonaceous material need to be modified to enhance its performance as an electrode in CDI cells. In this study, the wettability and electrochemical behavior of activated carbon (AC), as a widely used, effective, and inexpensive material, was distinctively improved by doping with zirconia nanoparticles. The introduced AC/ZrO 2 nanocomposite was fabricated using the alkaline hydrothermal method. Investigation of the surface morphology, phase and crystallinity by SEM, TEM, XPS, and XRD demonstrated the successful doping of AC by zirconia nanoparticles. Interestingly, the wettability measurement showed excellent enhancement, since the water contact angles of pristine and doped AC are 45° and 148°, respectively. The electrochemical experiments demonstrated that the synthesized composite (AC/ZrO 2) has a specific capacitance of 282.8 F g−1, which is higher than that for AC (207.5 F g−1). Due to the significant improvement in wettability and specific capacitance, the desalination performance and the salt ion electrosorption capacity were also enhanced: 40.4% and 68.5%, and 2.82 and 4.79 mg/g for AC and AC/ZrO 2 , respectively. Moreover, the introduced AC/ZrO 2 revealed 99% remaining desalination retention suggesting high stability. Overall, this study demonstrates ZrO 2 is an effective, stable, and environmentally safe material for improving the performance of carbonaceous CDI electrodes. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • ZrO 2 NPs/AC is introduced as effective CDI electrode material. • The salt removal efficiency has been improved to 68.5%. • Good performance is due to improving the specific capacitance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract In the present work, polypyrrole hollow fibers (PPy-HFs) were fabricated by sacrificial removal of soft templates of electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers with polypyrrole (PPy) coating through chemical polymerization of pyrrole monomer. Different physicochemical properties of as-fabricated PPy-HFs were then studied by Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Differential scanning calorimetry/Thermogravimetric analysis (DSC/TGA), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The photothermal activity of PPy-HF was studied by irradiating 808-nm near infra-red (NIR) light under different power values with various concentrations of PPy-HFs dispersed in phosphate buffer solution (PBS, pH 7.4). These PPy-HFs exhibited enhanced photothermal performance compared with polypyrrole nanoparticles (PPy-NPs). Furthermore, these PPy-HFs showed photothermal effect that was laser-power- and concentration-dependent. The photothermal toxicity of the resulting nanofiber was evaluated using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and live and dead cell assays. Results showed that these PPy-HFs were more effective in killing cancer cells under NIR irradiation. In contrast, hollow-fiber showed no cytotoxicity without NIR exposure. Among different nanofiber formulations, PPy-160 exhibited the highest photothermal toxicity. It could be explained by its enhanced photothermal performance compared to other specimens. The resulting PPy-HFs showed superior drug-loading capacity to PPy-NPs. This might be attributed to adequate binding of the drug into both luminal and abluminal hollow-fiber surfaces. Fabrication of this substrate type opens a promising new avenue for architectural design of biocompatible organic polymer for biomedical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The SPNH/DOX nanoplatform presented controlled drug delivery with a chemo selective approach for chemotherapy. • The copolymer of (NIPAm)-(NHMA) served as temperature-sensitive polymeric carrier. • In-depth study of drug release mechanism using different mathematical equation models. • The synergistic anticancer efficacy of SPNH/DOX was boosted by the combined approach. The study presents a controlled nanoscale drug delivery system mediated by polymeric magnetic nanoparticles. Under an alternating magnetic field (AMF), the magnetic nanoparticles act as internal heating sources that increase the surrounding temperature, provoking polymer transitions and thereby releasing the entrapped drug. We explain the drug-release mechanism using different mathematical models including Higuchi, Korsmeyer–Peppas, Hixson–Crowell, and Kopcha. Our results indicate that doxorubicin (DOX) release follows the Hixson–Crowell model with R2 = 0.99, revealing that the changes in the surface areas of the particles are the main driving force for drug release from poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)/N (hydroxymethyl) acrylamide coated SPIONs (SPNH/DOX) at 43 °C. However, at 37 °C, the drug release occurs by the diffusion mechanism. Moreover, in vitro cell culture assays including CCK-8, FACS, confocal and BIO-TEM images have confirmed cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of SPNH/DOX in CT26 cancer cells. Through a synergetic effect between chemotherapy triggered by AMF application and intracellular hyperthermia, significant tumoricidal effects were achieved in the initial 24 h after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, titanium oxide nanotubes (TNTs) have been developed via electrochemical anodization process, followed by potentiostatic electropolymerization of aniline monomer to achieve TNTs coated polyaniline (PANI) substrate using cyclic voltammetry method at low temperature. Prior to PANI decoration, crystallinity of titanium oxide nanotubes (TNTs) was obtained by annealing the substrate at 420 °C for two hours. The physicochemical characterization of the as-prepared TNTs and TNTs/PANI were analyzed using FE-SEM, AFM, XRD and FT-IR techniques. A coating of PANI forms a sheath around the nanotubes and protects them from metallic corrosion. Large surface area to volume ratio of TNTs showed improved properties in biocompatibility, thermal stability, electrical conductivity, biomineralization and hydrophilicity after coating with PANI, an electroactive conducting polymer. In addition, the TNTs/PANI exhibited an effective platform to enhance attachment, development and proliferation of preosteoblast (MC3T3-E1) cells which opens a new avenue in the realm of bone tissue engineering. The cells’ morphology to their surrounding topography, development, or proliferation, and osteogenic-related markers (such as ALP increased level, collagen type I secretion) were also analysed. Such types of surface modification tailoring on titanium nanotubes could offer a potential and a promising scaffold material for biomedical implantation in bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coated stents are classified as new generation stents wrapped with a thin polymeric membrane for the treatment of numerous vascular irregularities ranging from aneurysms to vascular leaks. Compared to partially covered and bare metal stents (BMS), fully covered stents promote less tissue granulation and suppress thrombosis, and can be designed to be post-operative retrievable. Fabrication method and material selection play significant roles in coated stent application, due to commercially available coated stents induce some degree restenosis. We have successfully fabricated a non-thrombotic and biocompatible fully coated stent made of a semi-interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogel composed of acrylic acid (AA), dopamine methacrylamide (DMA), and methyl methacrylate (MMA) terpolymer (P(AA-co-MMA-co-DMA)/PU, incorporated with polyurethane (PU). We utilize a conventional mold casting method to fabricate a uniform covered stent, with the stent struts fully embedded within the hydrogel membrane. Firm polymer-stent bonding was achieved by introducing DMA into the matrix. We characterized the membrane by conducting platelet adhesion/activation studies followed by hemolysis and inflammatory potential evaluation which supports a non-thrombogenicity of the P(AA-co-MMA-co-DMA)/PU semi-IPN hydrogel membrane. The quality of the coated hydrogel membrane was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM); mechanical stability of the layer was analyzed by peeling test; tensile test, and multiple physical deformations tests. Further evaluation will be carried out in the near future to evaluate the potential in vivo application of this new semi-IPN hydrogel coated stent to remedy non-vascular leaks and other strictures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-density, high porous bioactive fibrous scaffolds have attracted significant attention for tissue engineering. However, fabrication of biomimetic fibrous scaffolds having three-dimensional architecture along with bioactive materials still remains a challenging task for biomaterial scientists. Herein, for the first time, we developed a novel strategy to fabricate highly porous ß-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP) incorporated Poly ( l -lactide) (PLLA) fibrous scaffold for bone tissue engineering. Blending of PLLA with its monomer, lactic acid (LA) produced the fluffy type highly porous nanofibrous mesh. The mass composition of the constituents of the blend solution was varied to control the morphology and packing of the nanofibers in the scaffold. The results showed that LA played the vital role in the generation of the 3D fluffy type fibrous mesh. ß-TCP particles were incorporated in the blend solution prior to the electrospinning solution, to fabricate ß-TCP incorporated PLLA fibrous scaffold. Later, LA was leached out by washing with distilled water, to avoid its adverse effect on biocompatibility. Digital and SEM images revealed the formation of spongy, low-density fibrous mesh. TEM images, IR, and TGA analysis confirmed the presence of ß-TCP nanoparticles in the nanofibers after leaching of LA. Incorporation of the ß-TCP enhanced the water uptake ability, in vitro bio-mineralization, and bioactivity of the fibrous scaffold. Confocal microscopy images showed that the pre-osteoblast cells seeded on the fluffy type fibrous mesh infiltrated throughout the depth of the scaffold, compared to no penetrating growth for the 2D scaffold. In vitro biocompatibility evaluated by CCK assay showed significantly higher growth for cells on the fluffy type scaffold, compared to the 2D scaffold. We demonstrated scaffolds suitability for biocompatibility and osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs as well. We believe that the fabrication of bioactive particle incorporated highly porous 3D fibrous scaffold will open a new avenue for tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we engineered a self-electrical stimulated double-layered nerve guidance conduit (NGC) assembled from electrospun mats with an aligned oriented inward layer covered with a random oriented outer layer. The biomimetic NGC can be achieved from chitosan grafted polyurethane with well-dispersed functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes ( f MWCNTs) nanofibrous mats after a uniform coating of polypyrrole (PPy). The structural framework of interconnected NGC exhibited cellular biomaterial interface and improved the physicochemical properties, including electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and cytocompatibility, serving as natural hosting substrate to natural extracellular matrices (ECM) for vital roles in nerve tissue engineering. The regrowth, proliferation, and migration, of Schwann cells (S42) and the differentiation of rat pheochromocytoma cells (PC12) were greatly accelerated on the aligned oriented mats as compared to the randomly oriented mats during in vitro cell cultures. The morphology of the spontaneous outgrowth and phenotype of neurite bundles were preferentially guided along the axis of the aligned oriented nanofibers, which maintains a strong adaptability in axonal regeneration. In addition, the differentiation of PC12 cells cultured on as-fabricated NGCs were evaluated from cDNA gene expression. It is hoped that the results will contribute to the efficient application of designed NGCs and can be used in therapeutic strategies for treating injured sites and stimulate recovery from substantial damage to nerve cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemothermal brachytherapy seeds have been developed using a combination of polymeric dual drug chemotherapy and alternating magnetic field induced hyperthermia. The synergistic effect of chemotherapy and hyperthermia brachytherapy has been investigated in a way that has never been performed before, with an in-depth analysis of the cancer cell inhibition property of the new system. A comprehensive in vivo study on athymic mice model with SCC7 tumor has been conducted to determine optimal arrays and specifications of the chemothermal seeds. Dual drug chemotherapy has been achieved via surface deposition of polydopamine that carries bortezomib, and also via loading an acidic pH soluble hydrogel that contains 5-Fluorouracil inside the chemothermal seed; this increases the drug loading capacity of the chemothermal seed, and creates dual drug synergism. An external alternating magnetic field has been utilized to induce hyperthermia conditions, using the inherent ferromagnetic property of the nitinol alloy used as the seed casing. The materials used in this study were fully characterized using FESEM, H 1 NMR, FT-IR, and XPS to validate their properties. This new approach to experimental cancer treatment is a pilot study that exhibits the potential of thermal brachytherapy and chemotherapy as a combined treatment modality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we present a novel strategy to fabricate high porous fluffy type Poly ( L -lactide) (PLA) nanofibrous scaffold for tissue regeneration. Low-density nanofibrous scaffold was fabricated by electrospinning the blend of PLA and lactic acid (LA), followed by selective leaching of LA. Digital images, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) images, Infra-red (IR) spectra, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) curves revealed the formation of the low density biomimetic nanofibrous mesh. In vitro cell compatibility results indicated that as-fabricated PLA nanofibrous scaffold enhanced the cell proliferation and growth compared to the corresponding two-dimensional nanofibrous scaffold. Furthermore, confocal microscopy images showed that cells seeded on the fluffy type nanofibrous mesh infiltrated throughout the depth of the scaffold, compared to no penetrating growth for the two-dimensional scaffold. The fabrication of such fascinating materials may provide new insights into the design and development of the low density nanofibrous scaffolds for various tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous architectures are remarkable electrode materials for energy storage system due to their large number of active sites and high surface area. Here we report, mesoporous MoS 2 particles (pore diameter 34.04 nm) well attached to the surface of thin layered reduced graphene oxide (rGO) via an ultrasonic chemical method for supercapacitor applications. The rGO not only increases the conductivity of MoS 2 but also provides a substrate for the attachment of MoS 2 with low aggregation. The porous MoS 2 provides a large surface area and sufficient way for the fast transport of electrolyte ions toward electrode materials. As a result, the synthesized MoS 2 /rGO composites exhibited excellent electrochemical performance with a specific capacitance 314.5 F/g in 2M KOH aqueous solution at a scan rate of 10 mV/s and excellent specific capacitance retention (80.02%) after 1000 cycles in a three electrode system for energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose I and II polymorphs were isolated from Capsosiphon fulvescens (CF) using the conventional method of extraction and direct mercerization of raw sample, respectively. The morphological and structural differences between the isolated polymorphs were studied by FTIR, FESEM and XRD. Direct mercerization of raw CF yielded the transformation of highly crystalline cellulose I (81.3%) to II (63.7%) as observed in the shifting of XRD patterns. The derived cellulose I and II were hydrolyzed (60% w/w H 2 SO 4 , 55 °C, 1 h, 10 mL/g) to obtain the spindle-shaped cellulose nanocrystals. Cellulose nanocrystal I was observed to have a mean thickness and length of 12.67 ± 2.69 and 92.31 ± 21.31 nm, respectively; while cellulose nanocrystal II has a mean thickness and length of 15.58 ± 2.85 and 78.09 ± 18.22 nm, respectively. Furthermore, a fiber-like mat assembly, which could be used as supplement support structure for tissue engineering, was obtained after subjecting the aqueous cellulose nanocrystal suspensions to freeze-drying. A possible application of this material can be as a biocompatible and biodegradable composite for tissue engineering and other biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]