Search

Cardiac catheterization results in interactions between the catheter and surfaces and the artery lumen, which is lined by the endothelium. These interactions can range from minor rubbing to severe mechanical injury. Further, in the case of radial access, even atraumatic interactions have consequences ranging from clinical complications, such as radial spasm and radial occlusion, to lasting endothelial cell dysfunction. These consequences may be underappreciated; however, endothelial cells play a central role in maintaining vascular homeostasis via nitric oxide production. Existing treatment paradigms do not address endothelial dysfunction or damage and, thus, novel therapeutic approaches are needed. Nanomedicine, in particular, offers great potential in the form of targeted drug delivery, via functionalized coatings or nanocarriers, aimed at increased nitric oxide bioavailability or reduced inflammation. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2015, 7:458-473. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1316 For further resources related to this article, please visit the . Conflict of interest: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite significant advances in the development of artificial heart substitutes, anthrombogenic materials and surfaces remain to be the main challenge for implants, which can prevent thrombosis that leads to rejection. The goal of material engineering is essentially to design polymeric materials of high durability and optimal thrombogenicity in mechanical heart prosthesis, being developed recently in a frame of the polish artificial heart program. For these reasons, various surface modifications are being continuously developed for a 'gold standard' material, which is a polyurethane (PU) thermoplastic elastomer and they will be shortly reviewed. However, new polymeric materials can meet medical word's attention if they are able to provide similar or better characteristics in term of bulk and surface properties. Specifically, if they will show appropriate surface topography, which is the most influential in determining the response of live tissues toward biomaterials. Nanostructured polyester thermoplastic elastomers of high biodurability as an alternative to PU materials for artificial heart are challenging new materials, and they will be discussed briefly. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2012, 4:322-328. doi: 10.1002/wnan.175 For further resources related to this article, please visit the . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically investigate the synthesis of poly(butylene succinate)-co-(dilinoleic succinate) (PBS-DLS) copolymers and to enrich the library of polyesters synthesized via a sustainable route, we conducted a two-step polycondensation using fully biobased monomers such as diethyl succinate (DS), 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) and dilinoleic diol (DLD) in diphenyl ether, using Candida Antarctica lipase B (CAL-B) as biocatalyst. A series of PBS-DLS copolyesters with a 90-10, 70-30 and 50-50 wt% of hard (PBS) to soft (DLS) segments ratio were compared to their counterparts, which were synthesized using heterogenous titanium dioxide/silicon dioxide (TiO2/SiO2) catalyst. Chemical structure and molecular characteristics of resulting copolymers were assessed using nuclear magnetic spectroscopy (1H- and 13C-NMR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), whereas thermal and thermomechanical properties as well as crystallization behavior were investigated by differential scanning microscopy (DSC), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), digital holographic microscopy (DHM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The obtained results showed that, depending on the type of catalyst, we can control parameters related to blockiness and crystallinity of copolymers. Materials synthesized using CAL-B catalysts possess more blocky segmental distribution and higher crystallinity in contrast to materials synthesized using heterogenous catalysts, as revealed by DSC, XRD and DHM measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Multiblock poly(aliphatic/aromatic-ester)s containing phthalic acid sequences (as in poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) or poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT)) and a dimmer fatty acid (DFA) represent novel biocompatible materials offering the processability of thermoplastics combined with the good elasticity of rubber (thermoplastic elastomers, TPE). In the present investigation TiO2 nanoparticles were incorporated into PET/DFA copolymer with the aim of increasing mechanical properties and bioactivity, for use of the composites in tissue engineering and other biomedical applications. It was found that a relatively low concentration of TiO2 nanoparticles (0.13 vol.%) led to an impressive improvement of fracture strength (100%) and elongation at fracture (300%). As expected, the surface roughness increased with the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles. However upon immersion in simulated body fluid for up to 21 days, the composites did not exhibit formation of hydroxyapatite crystals on their surfaces, confirming the “bioinert” character of the composite constituents. This indicates that the possible bioactive behavior of the composites in in vitro or in vivo conditions may be related to the improved nanotopography imparted by TiO2 nanoparticle additions rather than due to chemistry related effects at the cell/biomaterial interface. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this work was to assess whether synthesized random copolyester, poly(butylene terephthalate-r-butylene dilinoleate) (PBT–DLA), containing bio-based components, can effectively compatibilize polypropylene/poly(butylene terephthalate) (PP/PBT) blends. For comparison, a commercial petrochemical triblock copolymer, poly(styrene-b-ethylene/butylene-b-styrene) (SEBS) was used. The chemical structure and block distribution of PBT–DLA was determined using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. PP/PBT blends with different mass ratios were prepared via twin-screw extrusion with 5 wt% of each compatibilizer. Thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis were used to assess changes in phase structure of PP/PBT blends. Static tensile testing demonstrated marked improvement in elongation at break, to ~18% and ~21% for PBT–DLA and SEBS, respectively. Importantly, the morphology of PP/PBT blends compatibilized with PBT–DLA copolymer showed that it is able to act as interphase modifier, being preferentially located at the interface. Therefore, we conclude that by using polycondensation and monomers from renewable resources, it is possible to obtain copolymers that efficiently modify blend miscibility, offering an alternative to widely used, rubber-like petrochemical styrene compatibilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented work deals with the photocuring of telechelic macromonomers derived from plant-based fatty acids to obtain a soft polymer network. Compositions were made by mixing macromonomers with three different concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2%) of two type I photoinitiators (Omnirad 2022 and Omnirad 819). All formulations were then subjected to photopolymerization studies by applying UV-assisted differential scanning calorimetry (UV-DSC) measurements at isothermal conditions at 37 °C with a narrow light source wavelength of 365 nm and irradiation (light intensity) of 20 and 50 mW/cm2. The percentage conversions, reaction orders, and constants were estimated based on autocatalytic Sestak–Berggen and Avrami models. In this work, for the first time, the influence of the curing conditions on the photopolymerization process, such as the photoinitiator concentration, light intensity, and oxygen presence/absence, were investigated for these novel systems. The results indicated significant differences between the two commercially available photoinitiators and their effects on photopolymerization kinetics. The maximum reaction rate was found to be considerably higher for Omnirad 2022 (which is a blend of three different compounds), especially at a lower light intensity, i.e., 20 mW/cm2, compared to Omnirad 819. However, it led to lower maximum conversion in an air atmosphere. The dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMTA) revealed that light intensity, photoinitiator concentration, and oxygen presence had a strong effect on the storage modulus and loss modulus values. It was concluded that the chemical structure of the photoinitiator and curing conditions had a strong effect on the photopolymerization kinetics and properties of the prepared soft polymer networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocurable materials, capable of being delivered as liquids and rapidly cured in situ within seconds using UV light, are garnering increased interest in advanced minimally invasive procedures. Examining living organisms to extract novel principles and technologies, and subsequently applying them into synthetic materials to enhance their performances holds a central position in biomimetics (bioinspiration). In this exploration, we delve into the multifaceted world of marine mussel adhesion, emphasizing the pivotal role of 3,4-dihydroxy- L -phenylalanine (L-DOPA) in adhesive proteins. Simultaneously, we navigated the promising realm of elastomers derived from fatty acid dimers. 90° peeling test and fluorescence microscope indicate that the adhesiveness of the catechol-containing samples (5 % and 10 %) to the hydrophilic surface versus control samples were ∼ 4 and 8 times higher, respectively, as compared to within the tested group. Overall, our results suggest that the incorporation of methacrylated L-DOPA in the synthesis of photocured elastomeric networks leads to lower water contact angle and improved adhesiveness, creating new avenues for potential biomedical applications. [Display omitted] • Photocurable elastomeric materials showed curing in seconds with UV light. • Inspired by marine mussel adhesion, L-DOPA enhances synthetic materials' performance. • Samples with 5 % and 10 % L-DOPA showed 4 and 8 times higher adhesiveness than controls. • Methacrylated L-DOPA improves elastomers' adhesiveness to hydrophilic surfaces, offering a promise for biomedical uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We report the synthesis of polydisulfides from a renewable resource. • The process is green, using an aqueous medium, enzyme, and recyclable catalyst. • Our synthetic method yields circular macromolecules of high M w. • The polymer is biodegradable; its lifecycle is completely circular. • The technology can be upscaled easily. In this paper, we report the synthesis and preliminary characterization of polydisulfides from a renewable resource. Di-linoleic diol was first converted into dithiol via transesterification of methyl-3-mercaptopropionate catalyzed by Candida antarctica Lipase B (CALB). The kinetics of the reaction was monitored using a newly developed Thin Layer Chromatography method. The dithiol was then polymerized by Reversible Radical Recombination Polymerization (R3P), a scalable "green" polymerization process using triethylamine (TEA) catalyst, aqueous H 2 O 2 , and air. 3 wt% H 2 O 2 yielded low molecular weight polymer, while with 30 wt% concentration DL-SS with M n = 66,400 g/mol and polydispersity of 1.26 was obtained. 800 MHz NMR and Raman spectroscopy did not detect thiol end group signals in this polymer, indicating that it had a cyclic structure. Dithiothreitol degraded the polymer to monomer in two weeks. Full characterization of this new polymer is in progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a degradation process of flexible polymer networks fabricated from telechelic macromonomers comprising methacrylic functionalities and dimer fatty acid derivatives were discussed. Hydrolytic degradation in simulated body fluid (SBF) as well as enzymatic degradation with a lipase of six different systems comprising ester, anhydride and urethane bonds was investigated. In parallel, in order to make a comparison with other analogous polymeric systems, reference materials were also considered. The degradation process was monitored by determining the weight loss and water uptake, FT-IR analysis and changes in pH of degradation medium as a function of time. A rapid progress of degradation of the network containing anhydride bonds was observed. Furthermore, polymer networks showed low water absorption from 10 to 2 wt.%. Polymer networks did not release acidic degradation products in an amount that causes acidification of the medium except the anhydride network. The IR analysis of characteristic bands showed degradation of specific bonds leading to formation of possible hydrolysis products of these networks such as poly(methacrylic acid), macromonomer precursor molecules and derivatives of the macromonomers having terminal carboxylic and hydroxyl groups. We demonstrated that the referred polymeric networks undergo a controlled gradual degradation in the presence of lipase. This study provides an example of how the susceptibility of cross-linked polymers to degradation can be tailored by varying their molecular structure, depending on the needs. [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]

• Enzyme catalyzed PBS copolyesters were synthesized in solution. • Kinetic studies revealed formation of segmented copolymers with random to ordered segments distribution. • MALDI-ToF evidenced presence of cyclic structures. • Thermal properties strongly depend on the degree of randomness, sequence length and hard to soft segments ratio. A series of segmented bio-copolyesters based on crystallizable hard segments of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and fully bio-based dilinoleic diol (DLAOH), creating dilinoleic succinate (DLS) soft segments, were prepared by enzymatically catalyzed polycondensation. The kinetic studies performed with 1H NMR and SEC have proved incorporation of highly hydrophobic DLAOH into the polymer backbone. We found that the efficacy of DLAOH incorporation was limited by the catalytic pocket size of the enzyme and its hydrophobic nature favouring the formation of long PBS sequences, especially at the early synthesis stages and having an effect on final content of soft segments compared to feed ratio. Based on quantitative 13C NMR analysis we found that copolymers had R- values lower than 1, that is low degree of randomness. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed changes in degree of crystallinity and the presence of a phase mixed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]