Search

Gait recognition and rehabilitation training based on pressure sensing technology have an important role in the field of rehabilitation medicine. However, existing pressure sensors that are used in this process are often fabricated from non-degradable or non-biocompatible source materials, which limits their application in long-term sustainable use. In this study, we propose a high-performance, degradable, biocompatible and flexible capacitive pressure sensor. Its dielectric layer is prepared using a polyvinyl alcohol/sodium alginate (PVA/SA) electrospun nanofiber membrane (ENM), while its upper and lower electrodes are fabricated from PVA@graphene screen-printed ENMs. Experimental results demonstrate the sensor's exceptional pressure sensing performance, characterized by its high sensitivity (0.54 kPa−1 at 0–10 kPa), low detection limit (∼2.2 Pa), rapid response time (26.6/29.9 ms), and excellent stability (5000 cycles). Furthermore, it exhibits outstanding biocompatibility, achieving a cell viability assay survival rate exceeding 97%, and remarkable degradability, completely degrading within one hour. A gait recognition and rehabilitation training system has been developed by integrating the sensors with a deep learning algorithm and wireless transmission technology. The system can effectively monitor and record dynamic parameters of lower limb swing during walking, exhibiting an impressive gait recognition accuracy of 98% over five normal and abnormal gaits. Moreover, it can guide patients in performing diverse rehabilitation actions as well as monitor their progress through action count recording. This innovative solution offers a sustainable approach to gait recognition and rehabilitation training within the field of rehabilitation medicine, thereby opening up new avenues for patient recovery. [Display omitted] • A pressure sensor was fabricated utilizing polyvinyl alcohol and sodium alginate. • The sensor demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and remarkable degradability. • The sensor exhibits high sensing performance comparable to other reported sensors. • An intelligent gait recognition and rehabilitation training system was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible pressure sensors (FPSs) are widely used in human–computer interaction (HCI) and medical diagnoses, but their further development faces several challenges. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with FPSs is indispensable for advancing the cognitive capabilities of HCI systems, but the FPS must also be ecofriendly, cost-effective, and high-performance to meet the demands of environmental protection and sustainable development. Here, a biodegradable capacitive FPS is presented that is fabricated from natural plant materials (i.e., cornstarch and lignocellulose) while exhibiting remarkable attributes such as high sensitivity (2.427 kPa−1 at 0–2 kPa), rapid response/recovery time (20/24 ms), extremely low detection limit (∼10 Pa), outstanding stability (> 6000 fatigue tests), excellent biocompatibility (survival rate exceeding 99 % in cell viability assays), and prominent biodegradability (complete degradation within 24 h). Prepared sensors were integrated with optimized AI algorithms, embedded systems, and wireless transmission technologies to develop a dual-functional (i.e., audible and silent) speech recognition system that achieved recognition rates exceeding 95 %. The developed sensor is expected to play a crucial role in future HCI and medical assistance applications. [Display omitted] • A fully biodegradable capacitive pressure sensor was successfully fabricated. • The sensor shows superior sensing performance compared to other reported sensors. • A dual-functional (audible and silent) speech recognition system was developed. • The sensor demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and remarkable biodegradability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comprehensive application of human–machine interaction (HMI) has promoted humanization in digital life. Wearable electronic devices and artificial intelligence are driving the development and transformation of HMI technology. Nevertheless, the fabrication of superior devices assisted by artificial intelligence for HMI remains challenging. We introduce an all–fabric ionic capacitive pressure sensor (AFICPS) using laser–induced graphene/fabric as the electrode and ion/fabric as the dielectric layer. The designed sensor exhibits high performance, including ultrahigh sensitivity (17.8 kPa−1@0–60 kPa, 73.3 kPa−1@60–100 kPa, and 33.8 kPa−1@100–150 kPa), wide detection range (0–150 kPa), ultrafast response and recovery times (11 and 8 ms, respectively), low detection limit (∼ 5 Pa), good mechanical stability (only 4.4 % performance loss after 5000 cycles), and excellent breathability and biocompatibility (mouse fibroblast cell survival exceeding 99 % after 48 h). All these factors contribute to the accurate detection of human physiological signals, particularly finger movements. Hence, we demonstrate a finger–coding intelligent HMI system that converts multiple gestures into 26 English letters and 10 Arabic numerals with a recognition accuracy above 98 % by using machine learning. This type of system may enhance information privacy and be of great significance in HMI and encrypted communication. [Display omitted] • The proposed sensor made of full fabric with good biocompatibility and breathability can be used for long term monitoring. • The laser induced graphene with microstructures and the fabric with ionic liquid improved the sensitivity (73.3 kPa−1). • The finite element analysis (FEA) was firstly performed to analysis the electric double–layer (EDL) effect of ion migration. • An intelligent finger–coding communication system was developed for high security and accuracy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An active absorptive frequency selective surface (AFSS) is proposed in this paper, which is comprised of a switchable bandpass screen and a periodic resistive surface separated by a foam layer. The switchable bandpass screen embedded with PIN diodes achieves the shift of transmission and reflection in the operating band by controlling the bias voltage. The resistive surface consists of several resonance loops inserted with lumped resistors. At the both sides of the operating band, the entire AFSS performs as an absorber with the switchable bandpass screen playing the role of ground plane. The absorption bands range from 1.3 to 6 GHz and 9.5 to 12.5 GHz with a transmission window at 8.2 GHz, which can be removed with little impact on the absorbing properties. A prototype of the structure is fabricated to verify the numerical simulation. Moreover, the simulated results also show that the proposed AFSS exhibits stable performance for different polarized waves due to the symmetric structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An intronic (G 4 C 2) n expansion in C9orf72 causes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia primarily through gain-of-function mechanisms: the accumulation of sense and antisense repeat RNA foci and dipeptide repeat (DPR) proteins (poly-GA/GP/GR/PA/PR) translated from repeat RNA. To therapeutically block this pathway, we screen a library of 1,430 approved drugs and known bioactive compounds in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons (iPSC-Neurons) for inhibitors of DPR expression. The clinically used guanosine/cytidine analogs decitabine, entecavir, and nelarabine reduce poly-GA/GP expression, with decitabine being the most potent. Hit compounds nearly abolish sense and antisense RNA foci and reduce expression of the repeat-containing nascent C9orf72 RNA transcript and its mature mRNA with minimal effects on global gene expression, suggesting that they specifically act on repeat transcription. Importantly, decitabine treatment reduces (G 4 C 2) n foci and DPRs in C9orf72 BAC transgenic mice. Our findings suggest that nucleoside analogs are a promising compound class for therapeutic development in C9orf72 repeat-expansion-associated disorders. [Display omitted] • Screen for DPR modifiers in C9orf72 iPSC-Neurons yields guanosine/cytidine analogs • Decitabine, entecavir, and nelarabine reduce expression of repeat RNA and DPR levels • Decitabine does not act via DNMT and has minimal effects on transcriptome • Decitabine is most potent in vitro and reduces pathology in a C9orf72 mouse model Screening 1,430 approved drugs in patient-derived iPSC-Neurons for inhibitors of dipeptide repeat (DPR) expression in C9orf72 ALS/FTD, Czuppa et al. identify three nucleoside analogs: decitabine, nelarabine, and entecavir. The compounds nearly abolish foci of the (G 4 C 2) n repeat RNA without affecting global gene expression. The findings are validated in transgenic mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Stable jet based electrospinning (SJES) has recently emerged as a straight-forward approach for the continuous fabrication of well-aligned ultrafine fibers and fiber assemblies. This article reports on the influences of some pivotal solution parameters including solvent, polymer molecular weight, and concentration on the formation of a stable jet length (SJL) in electrospinning of a biodegradable polymer, poly(l-lactide acid) (PLLA). Our results reveal that enhanced critical SJL can be achieved at lower solvent dielectric constant and higher viscoelasticity of solutions contributed by the molecular weight and concentration, beneficial for achieving higher degree of fiber alignment. Moreover, hierarchical orderliness including the macroscopic fiber alignment, the elongation along the fiber direction of microscopic pores on the fiber surface and the molecular orientation within the electrospun PLLA fibers, can be modulated by the SJL. The molecular orientation and crystallinity of the aligned PLLA fibers from SJES increased with increasing the SJLs. Also, the measured tensile properties data suggest a positive trend associated with the SJL. This study thus allows establishing a solid correlation of SJL with respect to the macroscopic alignment, internal molecular structural development, and mechanical performance of the electrospun ultrafine PLLA fibers pertaining to the SJES. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs had good physicochemical properties and cytocompatibility. • Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs inhibited the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis. • Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs inhibited the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HGFs. • Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs reduced the expression of IL-1β by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome. A polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticle comprising chitosan (CS) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) was prepared (CS/CMCS-NPs) by ionic gelation, which was then used as a doxycycline carrier (Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs). The obtained CS/CMCS-NPs and Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs were characterized for various parameters and bacteriostatic ability against Porphyromonas gingivalis. The regulation of related genes and proteins of NLRP3 inflammasome and IL-1β in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) was characterized by qRT-PCR, western blotting and ELISA. The results showed that Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs had an orderly morphology and an excellent cytocompatibility. P. gingivalis was strongly inhibited by Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs contrasted with control group. Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs effectively down-regulated both gene and protein levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and IL-1β in HGFs. This study provides a new method for rational application of Dox in the clinical treatment of periodontal disease and a new direction for explaining the mechanism of action of Dox:CS/CMCS-NPs and more drug-carrying nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• P. gingivalis -LPS alone could not activate the NLRP3 inflammasome in HGFs. • P. gingivalis -LPS + ATP activates NLRP3 inflammasome in HGFs. • Dox inhibited the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in HGFs. • Dox reduces the expression of IL-1β by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome. To investigate the effect of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) on inflammasome activation by Porphyromonas gingivalis -lipopolysaccharide (P. gingivalis -LPS) stimulation and the anti-inflammatory eff ;ect of doxycycline (Dox) in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). The optimal concentration of P. gingivalis -LPS (1.0 μg/mL) for cellular viability was determined by observing cell morphology and measuring the amount of formazan and the expression of pro-caspase-1. The expression of genes and proteins related to the NAcht Leucine-rich repeat Protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, including NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC), caspase-1 and its activated forms, and the inflammatory factor interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and its activated forms were measured. The NLRP3 inflammasome (i.e., NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1) was not affected by stimulation with P. gingivalis -LPS or ATP. However, a combination of P. gingivalis -LPS and ATP significantly enhanced inflammasome activation and IL-1β production at the gene and protein levels as measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot, respectively. Furthermore, doxycycline addition markedly inhibited inflammasome activation and IL-1β production induced by a combination of P. gingivalis -LPS and ATP. LPS, ATP, and doxycycline play critical roles in regulating host immune responses. This evidence provides guidance for the application of tetracycline drugs for the clinical treatment of periodontal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bidding strategy based on spectral risk measure is proposed for energy internet zones. • Spectral risk measure is introduced to model decision makers' subjective risk aversion. • Spectral risk measure based strategies are compared with CVaR based model. Improving energy efficient is a promising solution to save energy costs and reduce carbon emission. Based on energy cascade utilization technology, integrated energy systems can supply multiple energy carriers to customers efficiently. However, the integration of multiple energy systems and components brings various uncertainties to integrated energy systems, highlighting the importance of risk management when integrated energy systems participate in energy market. In this paper, spectral risk measure which can model decision makers' subjective risk aversion is introduced. Two typical measures, exponential spectral risk measure and power spectral risk measure, are discussed and compared. Then, a bidding strategy based on spectral risk measure is proposed for integrated energy systems to participate in short-term energy markets. The optimal self-scheduling and bidding curves in the day-ahead electricity market can be obtained. Compared with the traditional risk measures, the spectral risk measure is a customized risk measure according to decision makers' subjective attitude and it can improve the decision makers' subjective preference on the optimal results, as illustrated by case studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and characterization of PVA-chitosan-NiO, PVA-chitosan-TiO 2 , and PVA-chitosan-TiO 2 @NiO films have opened avenues for tailoring materials with specific electrical, dielectric, and optical properties. The synergistic effects arising from the combination of polymers and metal oxides offer a platform for further optimization and application-specific tuning. The synthesis process successfully incorporated NiO and TiO 2 nanoparticles into the PVA-chitosan matrix, creating three distinct films: PVA-chitosan-NiO, PVA-chitosan-TiO 2 , and PVA-chitosan-TiO 2 @NiO. Structural analyses, including X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealed well-defined nanostructures with crystalline metal oxide dispersions. Dielectric characterization demonstrated frequency-dependent behavior, elucidating the influence of metal oxides on dielectric constants and loss tangents. Cole–Cole plots provide insights into relaxation processes and can guide applications in capacitors and energy storage devices. Conductivity measurements highlight the enhanced electrical performance of NiO and TiO 2. This study provides a foundation for future research on the development of advanced functional materials for a wide range of technological applications. The insights gained from this work contribute to the growing body of knowledge on polymer-metal oxide composites and pave the way for innovations in electronic, optoelectronic, and energy-related technologies. • Developed PVA-chitosan hybrid films incorporating TiO 2 and NiO nanoparticles for advanced functional material applications were prepared. • Employed X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to confirm well-defined nanostructures and homogeneous dispersion of metal oxide nanoparticles within the polymer matrix. • Performance including higher dielectric constants and reduced loss tangents, highlighting potential in capacitive and energy storage applications were improved. • Enhanced electrical conductivity in PVA-chitosan-TiO 2 @NiO films compared to individual PVA-chitosan-NiO and PVA-chitosan-TiO 2 films was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The prepared PL-CQDs had uniform particle size, fluorescent properties, and positive charge. • Biocompatible PL-CQDs enhanced T cell viability with increasing concentration and inhibit T cell differentiation to CD4 + T cells in mice. • PL-CQDs, together with T cells, promoted osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells and promoted alkaline phosphatase expression and calcium nodule formation in MC3T3-E1 cells. • In vivo, PL-CQDs promoted periodontal bone formation, reduced periodontal tissue inflammation, and had good therapeutic effects in animal models. Periodontitis, a common chronic inflammatory disease, is characterized by T cell responses leading to gradual alveolar bone loss and eventual tooth mobility or loss. Herein, polylysine-derived carbon quantum dots (PLL-CQDs) are synthesized via the pyrolysis method to facilitate the recovery of periodontal bone loss induced by periodontitis by modulating T cell phenotype. The PLL-CQDs, characterized by small particle size (2.31 ± 0.70 nm) and fluorescence properties, preserved the positive charge of PLL, affirming successful preparation. In vitro studies revealed that PLL-CQDs significantly increased T cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner, while effectively suppressing differentiation into CD4+ phenotype. Furthermore, they promoted alkaline phosphatase expression and calcium nodule formation in MC3T3-E1 cells, indicating potential for periodontal bone regeneration. In viv o experiments demonstrated that PLL-CQDs mitigated alveolar bone resorption and modulated periodontal tissue inflammation. Overall, PLL-CQDs exhibited the ability to regulate T cell differentiation and expedite periodontal bone healing, offering promising implications for periodontitis treatment and suggesting novel strategies for addressing immune-associated bone diseases using CQDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine polysaccharide-based hydrogels have drawn much attention for diversified biomedical applications owing to their excellent (bio)physicochemical properties. In the present work, a series of marine polysaccharide-based hydrogels composed of chitosan, alginate, or fucoidan are prepared via a facile chemical cross-linking approach in an alkali/urea aqueous system. The prepared hydrogels possess tunable microporous architecture, swelling, and biodegradable properties by changing the components and proportions of marine polysaccharides. Importantly, the developed hydrogels are mechanically robust and the maximum compressive stress is up to 28.37 ± 4.63 kPa. Furthermore, the composite hydrogels exhibit excellent cytocompatibility, blood compatibility, and histocompatibility. When implanted subcutaneously in rats, the hydrogels containing fucoidan inhibit the inflammatory response of surrounding tissue. Thus, the designed composite hydrogels are promising bio-scaffolds in biomedical applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fucoidan has received much attention in healthy food and biomedicine owing to their unique (bio)physicochemical properties, particularly antibacterial and antiviral. Pathogenic microorganisms and probiotics are coexisting in many tissues (e.g., gut, oral, and vagina). However, the effect of fucoidan on probiotics has not been examined. Herein, fucoidan sterilized by different methods (i.e., 0.22 μm filter and high-temperature autoclave) is applied to explore its effect on the responses of Lactobacillus rhamnosus. It is found that high-temperature autoclave treatment causes the depolymerization of fucoidan. Further, the proliferation, morphology, and metabolism of probiotics are greatly dependent on the concentrations of fucoidan. The formation of probiotic biofilm is reduced with an increased concentration of fucoidan. Moreover, the antibacterial ability of probiotics initially increases and then decreases with an increased concentration of fucoidan. Thus, fucoidan could serve as a new marine-origin prebiotic, offering new insight into probiotic modulation and its application in inhibiting bacterial infections. • Depolymerized fucoidan with appropriate concentration promotes the growth of L. rhamnosus. • Depolymerized fucoidan affects the morphology and metabolism of L. rhamnosus. • Depolymerized fucoidan inhibits the formation of probiotic biofilm. • Depolymerized fucoidan enhances the antibacterial ability of L. rhamnosus. • Depolymerized fucoidan serves as a marine-origin prebiotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First reported proteomic study of maize and Setosphaeria turcica interaction. • Insight into the dynamic reprogramming of leaves proteomes during S. turcica infection. • Total 1331 DEPs were identified and 14 of which were verified by parallel reaction monitoring experiment. • The biosynthesis of phenylpropanoid and BX and JA signal pathway were involved in the response of maize to S. turcica infection. • GST family proteins could contribute to the resistance of maize against S. turcica. Maize (Zea mays L.) production is severely affected by northern corn leaf blight (NCLB), which is a destructive foliar disease caused by Setosphaeria turcica. In recent years, studies on the interaction between maize and S. turcica have been focused at the transcription level, with no research yet at the protein level. Here, we applied tandem mass tag labelling and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to investigate the proteomes of maize leaves at 24 h and 72 h post-inoculation (hpi) with S. turcica. In total, 4740 proteins encoded by 4711 genes were quantified in this study. Clustering analyses provided an understanding of the dynamic reprogramming of leaves proteomes by revealing the functions of different proteins during S. turcica infection. Screening and classification of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) revealed that numerous defense-related proteins, including defense marker proteins and proteins related to the phenylpropanoid lignin biosynthesis, benzoxazine biosynthesis and the jasmonic acid signalling pathway, participated in the defense responses of maize to S. turcica infection. Furthermore, the earlier induction of GST family proteins contributed to the resistance to S. turcica. In addition, the protein–protein interaction network of DEPs suggests that some defense-related proteins, for example, ZmGEB1, a hub node, play key roles in defense responses against S. turcica infection. Our study findings provide insight into the complex responses triggered by S. turcica at the protein level and lay the foundation for studying the interaction process between maize and S. turcica infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional wound-dressing materials with structural and functional deficiencies are not effective in promoting wound healing. The development of multifunctional wound dressings is emerging as a promising strategy to accelerate blood coagulation, inhibit bacterial infection, and trigger full-thickness wound into a regenerative process. Herein, multifunctional composite sponges were developed by incorporation of traditional Chinese medicine Kangfuxin (KFX) into alginate (AG)/carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) via green crosslinking, electrostatic interaction, and freeze-drying methods. It is demonstrated that the AG/CMC/KFX (ACK) sponges exhibit a highly interconnected and porous structure, suitable water vapor transmittance, excellent elastic properties, antibacterial behavior, cytocompatibility, and rapid hemostasis. Further, in a rat full-thickness wounds model, the ACK sponge containing 10% KFX (ACK-10) significantly facilitates wound closure compared to the AC group and ACK sponge containing 5% and 15% KFX. Thus, the multifunctional ACK-10 composite sponge has great promise for the application of full-thickness wound healing. Unlabelled Image • Multifunctional alginate/carboxymethyl chitosan/kangfuxin sponges (ACK) were successfully fabricated. • ACK possessed a highly porous structure and excellent elastic properties. • ACK accelerated hemostasis and inhibited bacterial infection • ACK triggered the full-thickness wound into a regenerative process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particle shape is an essential aspect of granular soils that affects their mechanical properties. It is challenging to isolate the effect of particle shape from other mechanical properties such as inter-particle friction coefficient and particle shear modulus in laboratory tests. The discrete element method (DEM) makes it feasible to investigate the effect of macroscopic and mesoscopic particle morphologies including sphericity and roundness. This study provides a systematical DEM investigation of the particle shape effect on the dynamic properties of granular soils by simulating cyclic undrained triaxial tests at various initial confining pressures and void ratios. The results indicate that specimen consisting of angular particles generally exhibit a higher secant shear modulus G than that of rounded particles. Additionally, particle shape has no significant effect on modulus ratio G / G 0 but a noticeable impact on damping ratio D at relatively large strains due to dilatancy. A weighted coordination number CN' was proposed to reveal the microscopic effect of particle shape on G 0. Contact sliding was found to be the main cause of modulus degradation and damping increase with increasing shear strain. The tangential shear modulus ratio G tan / G 0 is inversely correlated to the weighted contact sliding ratio f s '. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radical pelvic surgery is commonly accompanied by the risk of postoperative erectile dysfunction induced by cavernous nerve injury (CNI-ED). The strategy of using adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (ADSC-Exo) to treat neurodegenerative diseases has shown promising results. However, it remains challenging to prolong the retention of unbound ADSC-Exo in damaged tissues to exert therapeutic effects. Herein, we develop a novel injectable thermo-sensitive hydroxyethyl chitosan/sodium β-glycerophosphate hydrogel (HG) encapsulating ADSC-Exo (HG@Exo) to manage CNI-ED. The HG exhibits excellent injectability, structural stability, and body temperature sensitivity. In vivo assessment demonstrates that the designed ADSC-Exo-loaded HG hydrogel enhances the retention of ADSC-Exo and displays a slow release. Furthermore, when HG@Exo is applied to the site of nerve injury, erectile function in the bilateral cavernous nerve injury rat model is significantly improved. Thus, our finding indicates that the developed bioactive hydrogel presents a promising strategy for the effective management of CNI-ED. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tooth extraction commonly causes uncontrolled bleeding, loss of blood clots, and bacterial infection, leading to the dry socket and bone resorption. Thus, it is highly attractive to design a bio-multifunctional scaffold with outstanding antimicrobial, hemostatic, and osteogenic performances for avoiding dry sockets in clinical applications. Herein, alginate (AG)/quaternized chitosan (Qch)/diatomite (Di) sponges were fabricated via electrostatic interaction, Ca2+ cross-linking, as well as lyophilization methods. The composite sponges are facilely made into the shape of the tooth root, which could be well integrated into the alveolar fossa. The sponge shows a highly interconnected and hierarchical porous structure at the macro/micro/nano levels. The prepared sponges also possess enhanced hemostatic and antibacterial abilities. Moreover, in vitro cellular assessment indicates that the developed sponges have favorable cytocompatibility and significantly facilitate osteogenesis by upregulating the formation of alkaline phosphatase and calcium nodules. The designed bio-multifunctional sponges display great potential for trauma treatment after tooth extraction. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Astaxanthin-loaded Janus nanofiber patches were prepared via electrospinning. • The saliva-insoluble PCL backing prevented drug loss in the oral cavity. • The patches showed a suitable astaxanthin release rate and permeated into buccal mucosa. • The patches greatly promoted the recovery of oral premalignant lesions. • The patches showed great potential for managing oral premalignant lesions. Oral premalignant lesions (OPL) are one of the most common oral diseases, affecting the quality of life and even leading to oral cancer. Current treatments commonly use steroids/retinoids in mouthwashes, films, or ointments. However, conventional drugs/formulations have significant side effects/limitations. Herein, astaxanthin-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL)/gelatin (GT) nanofiber-based mucoadhesive patches (PGA) with the water‐insoluble PCL nanofiber backing (PCL/PGA) are developed via electrospinning for the management of OPL. The saliva-insoluble PCL backing could greatly prevent drug loss after application in the oral cavity. The prepared PCL/PGA patches exhibit a suitable astaxanthin release rate for achieving high local drug concentration, which permeated into buccal mucosa. In addition, the developed thin patches display excellent wet tissue adhesion and great air permeability due to their high porosity. Notably, the in vivo experiment shows that the bioactive mucoadhesive patches significantly promote the recovery of OPL by suppressing the expression of Ki67 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), comparable to clinical tretinoin cream formulation. Also, the patches did not induce any side effects (i.e., hair loss and oral ulcers) compared to clinical tretinoin cream formulation. The results demonstrate that this novel electrospun mucoadhesive bilayer patch holds great potential for the treatment of OPL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triggering the repair process of diabetic wounds is a huge clinical challenge due to microbial infection, the reduced migration and proliferation of fibroblasts, decreased angiogenesis and collagen formation caused by the long-term negative stimulation of high blood glucose levels. Herein, bio-multifunctional benzaldehyde-terminated 4-arm PEG (4-arm-PEG-CHO)/carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS)/basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) hydrogels (BP/CS-bFGF) are prepared via the dynamic Schiff base reaction for diabetic wound treatment. BP/CS-bFGF hydrogel dressing shows strong wet-tissue adhesion, self-mending, and antibacterial property. Biological assessments display that the BP/CS-bFGF hydrogel has excellent biocompatibility and fast hemostasis capacity. Importantly, BP/CS-bFGF hydrogel dressing significantly accelerates full-thickness diabetic wound repair by increasing the production of Ki67, promotes the generation of epithelialization and collagen, induces the formation of hair follicles, and enhances neovascularization by upregulating the production of CD31 and CD34. Thus, our work demonstrates that BP/CS-bFGF hydrogel dressing displays great potential for diabetic chronic wound management. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • All organic PC 71 BM/g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts were constructed by in situ self-assembly. • The heterostructures possess satisfactory biocompatibility. • The PC 71 BM served as the electron acceptor and photosensitizer. • · O 2 - acted as the main active species in the degradation process. Photocatalysis has been reported as a potential water purification technology for combating the pathogenic bacteria and degrading the hazardous chemicals. The photoactive organic semiconductors as the emerging class of an alternative to the traditional developed inorganic semiconductors are being widely pursued due to their tunable structures and low toxicity. Herein, the all-organic [6,6] -phenyl C 71 butyric acid methyl ester (PC 71 BM)/g-C 3 N 4 heterostructure have been created by introducing self-assembled n-type fullerene small molecule to the g-C 3 N 4 surface in situ. The absorption edge of the heterostructures with PC 71 BM as the photosensitizer extend from 450 to 650 nm. Moreover, the charge separation and transfer efficiencies of the photocatalysts are greatly promoted even with 1.0% amount of PC 71 BM because of its low reorganization energy and high reduction potential. All of these superiorities endow the heterostructures with over 99.7% antibacterial rates toward E. coli and S. aureus and excellent performance against their biofilms after irradiation for 135 and 180 min, respectively. Additionally, the heterostructures achieve excellent photocatalytic degradation ability for Rhodamine B and tetracycline. Importantly, the in vitro experiments reveal that the as-prepared heterostructures possess satisfactory biocompatibility and their toxicity is negligible. This study provides a new perspective for designing ecofriendly all-organic heterostructures with high photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral inflammatory diseases (OIDs) are among the most common lesions in the oral cavity, affecting the quality of human life and even causing oral cancer. However, most of the current oral mucosa patches still have some limitations, particularly instant, poor mechanical strength and conformability, low adhesion to tissue, and foreign body sensation. Herein, triamcinolone acetonide (TA)-loaded chitosan/fucoidan (CF) composite hydrogels were prepared via chemical crosslinking. The macro/microscopic morphologies and (bio)physicochemical properties of composite hydrogels were investigated. Incorporating fucoidan in chitosan hydrogels greatly enhanced their swelling behavior, mechanical strength, and adhesion properties. Further, the addition of TA in CF hydrogels improved their elastic feature, inhibited inflammatory response, and promoted the formation of mature and well-organized collagen fibers. The developed composite hydrogels displayed not only good antibacterial properties but also good cytocompatibility and histocompatibility. Thus, the designed hydrogels allow the development of oral mucosa patches as a potential treatment for OIDs. [Display omitted] • Chitosan/fucoidan/triamcinolone acetonide (CFT) hydrogels are developed. • CFT hydrogels possess excellent elastic, flexible, and adhesive properties. • CFT hydrogels have great antibacterial ability. • CFT hydrogels show good cytocompatibility and histocompatibility. • CFT hydrogels display great potential as oral mucosa patches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The preparation of biomaterial-based encapsulated probiotics (BEP) is summarized. • The BEP in diversified biomedical applications are highlighted. • The challenges and perspectives for the BEP are proposed. Probiotics have recently received increasing attention in a range of biomedical applications, such as antimicrobial agents, tissue repair and regeneration, as well as disease treatment. However, the activity and viability of probiotics are significantly affected by complicated tissue/organ environment and thus the probiotics can not stay steady at the target location. Probiotic encapsulation is developed as a biotechnological tool to cope with the technological issues derived from the handling and application of probiotics. Encapsulating living probiotics within appropriate biomaterials is a crucial extension of the functions of probiotics and further development. Biomaterials-based probiotic encapsulation not only protects the vitality of the probiotics but also is a better way to make them delivered to their target location. This review summarizes recent advances of biomaterial-based encapsulated probiotics, including encapsulation methods, encapsulation materials, and encapsulation effects. Further, we highlight biomaterial-based encapsulated probiotics in diversified biomedical applications, including the gastrointestinal tract, oral cavity, vagina, and skin. In the final section, current challenges faced by biomaterial-based encapsulated probiotics are outlined and future perspectives for advancing this research are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hierarchically hybrid CS/nHA-nZnO-PDA coating on Ti implants is successfully developed. • The developed Ti-based implants exhibit enhanced antibacterial efficacy. • The developed Ti-based implants improve cytocompatibility and the osteogenic differentiation of cells. • The designed CS/nHA-nZnO-PTi surfaces display great potential for dental/orthopedic applications. Titanium (Ti) is widely applied as bone-anchoring implants in dental and orthopedic applications owing to its superior mechanical characteristics, high corrosion resistance, and excellent biocompatibility. Nevertheless, Ti-based implants with the deficiencies of insufficient osteoinduction and associated infections can result in implant failure, which significantly limits its applications in some cases. In this work, hierarchically hybrid biocoatings on Ti implants are developed by gradual incorporation of polydopamine (PDA), ZnO nanoparticles (nZnO), and chitosan (CS)/nanocrystal hydroxyapatite (nHA) via oxidative self-polymerization, nanoparticle deposition, solvent casting and evaporation methods for enhancing their antibacterial activity and osteogenesis. The modification of PDA on porous reticular Ti substrates greatly reduces the surface roughness, wettability, protein adsorption, and provides high adhesion to the deposited nZnO. Further, incorporating nZnO on PDA-coated Ti surfaces affects the surface structure and wettability, significantly inhibits the growth of both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Moreover, the CS/nHA-doped coating on the nZnO-modified Ti surfaces remarkably improves cytocompatibility and enhances the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells by upregulating the protein expression of alkaline phosphatase. This work offers a promising alternative for developing Ti implants with long-lifetime bioactivity to achieve strong antibacterial ability and enhanced bone formation for potential dental/orthopedic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing bio-multifunctional wound dressings with excellent hemostasis, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, enhanced angiogenesis and hair follicle regeneration for promoting full-thickness wound healing is highly valuable in clinical application. Herein, bio-multifunctional composite sponges were prepared by coupling alginate and chitosan with fucoidan through electrostatic interaction, Ca2+ crosslinking, and lyophilization processes. The prepared alginate/chitosan/fucoidan (ACF) sponges display excellent elastic properties, preserving their shape even after bending and compressive strain without failure. The ACF sponge containing 10% fucoidan (ACF-1) shows better hemostatic and antibacterial performances, and significantly promotes wound closure in a rat full-thickness wounds model compared to the alginate/chitosan group and ACF sponge containing 30% fucoidan. Furthermore, the ACF-1 sponge greatly facilitates the epithelialization and the formation of collagen in the dermis, promotes the hair follicle regeneration, enhances vascularization by upregulating the protein expression of CD31, and reduces inflammation by downregulating the protein expression of TNF-α. This work suggests that ACF sponges with a certain amount of fucoidan display great potential for the treatment of full-thickness skin repair. Unlabelled Image • Bio-multifunctional ACF sponges were successfully prepared through a facile, efficient, green cross-linked, and freeze-drying processes. • The ACF sponges possessed excellent hemostatic and antibacterial performances as well as greatly promoted full-thickness wound healing. • The ACF sponges reduced inflammation, facilitated the epithelialization, as well as enhanced angiogenesis and hair follicle regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Multi-treatment affects the physicochemical features of tooth root biointerfaces. • Cell adhesion and viability are regulated by the topography and wettability of tooth root surfaces. • Cell alignment is induced by the directional topography on the tooth root surface. • Tooth root biointerfaces under various treatments did not induce inflammatory response. The cleaning and physicochemical properties on tooth root biointerfaces are pivotal for periodontal healing. Herein, this work investigated the impact of multi-treatment on the physicochemical features of tooth root surfaces and the responsive behavior of human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs). It was found that the combination of various mechanical treatments significantly affects the topographical pattern and size as well as wettability on tooth root surfaces. Furthermore, biological experiments revealed that hGF behaviors (i.e., cell adhesion, shape, spreading, arrangement, and viability) were regulated by the topography and wettability of tooth root surfaces. Also, there was no significant difference in the protein expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and IL-1β in hGFs among tooth root surfaces under various treatments. This study provides new insights to efficiently remove the dental calculus and to understand the interaction between the tooth root interface and cell, which could guide the clinical operation and thereby is more conducive to periodontal recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]