Search Results (1,093)

This study presents the development of biocompatible antistatic nanofibrous composite yarns via a scalable AC electrospinning method, incorporating ultrasonicated expanded graphite (uEG) and PEDOT:PSS into polyamide (PA), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrices. TGA confirmed high filler retention during electrospinning. Electrical measurements showed that the addition of uEG and micrographite reduced single-yarn resistance by up to two orders of magnitude compared with neat polymers, yielding normalised resistivities as low as ~10⁵–10⁶ Ω·m and conductivities in the 10⁻⁷–10⁻⁵ S/m range, suitable for antistatic and sensing applications. However, the large filler–fibre size mismatch and highly porous yarn architecture limited the formation of continuous conductive networks, and mechanical tests revealed strength reductions of up to 70–80% at the highest PVB filler loadings. XRD confirmed a reduction in crystallinity with filler addition, PEDOT:PSS enhanced polymer chain nucleation and thus mechanical properties. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that uEG, micrographite, and PEDOT:PSS significantly improved cell viability compared with non-crosslinked PVA, with several PVB-based and PVA/uEG composites showing viability statistically comparable to the DMEM control (>70%) while remaining significantly higher than the Triton positive control. Overall, this work establishes an AC-electrospun route to antistatic nanofibrous yarns that combine high filler retention with enhanced biocompatibility. Full article

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is the leading cause of low back pain, a global public health burden for which current pharmacological and surgical treatments provide symptomatic relief but fail to reverse the underlying degenerative process. The uniquely avascular, hypoxic, acidic, and mechanically demanding disc microenvironment poses formidable barriers to the survival and function of therapeutic cells and genes, emphasizing the critical need for bioengineered delivery systems. In this review, we introduce the structure and microenvironment of the intervertebral disc, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying IVDD. We then provide a critical comparative analysis of delivery platforms, including hydrogels, microspheres, nanoparticles, nanofibrous scaffolds, and viral and non-viral vectors, around five core delivery challenges: mechanical protection, retention and leakage prevention, targeted intracellular delivery, controlled release kinetics, and metabolic support. Furthermore, we examine the fabrication technologies and material considerations that determine platform performance, and we analyze the translational barriers that have impeded clinical adoption, such as the limitations of small-animal models and unresolved cell leakage. Finally, we highlight emerging strategies, including gene-cell combination therapy and endplate preconditioning, to accelerate the clinical translation of precision therapies for IVDD. Full article

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a natural nanofibrous material, but its limited functional tunability restricts its use in moisture-management applications. In this study, BC/carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) composite films were prepared by in situ fermentation using a kombucha-derived high-yield strain, followed by citric acid post-treatment. The films were characterized by FTIR, XPS, XRD, SEM, and physicochemical tests. CMC incorporation regulated the BC nanofibrous network while preserving cellulose I, and citric acid post-treatment promoted possible ester-linkage-assisted network stabilization. The modified films showed improved water-management behavior, water-vapor barrier performance, and mechanical response while maintaining high surface hydrophilicity; notably, BC/CMC-3 reduced the water vapor transmission rate from 106.13 ± 4.24 to 71.07 ± 2.46 g/(m²·24 h). These results suggest that CMC dosage is an effective strategy for tailoring BC-based films for moisture-management applications. Full article

This study investigates the impact of TiO₂ incorporation (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 wt.%) on the structural, optical, electrical, mechanical, and antibacterial properties of electrospun PVA/PVP nanofibers. FESEM observations revealed continuous, randomly oriented nanofibrous films with an average diameter in the 77–96 nm range, depending on TiO₂ content. FTIR and XRD analyses confirmed successful nanoparticle integration, showing effective interfacial interactions and the presence of crystalline TiO₂ phases within the semi-crystalline PVA/PVP matrix. Optical studies demonstrated a progressive decrease in the indirect band gap with increasing TiO₂ loading, decreasing from 3.75 to 3.54 eV according to the Tauc method and from 3.70 to 3.43 eV according to the ASF method, accompanied by an increase in Urbach energy from 0.43 to 0.64 eV, indicating enhanced structural disorder and tail state formation. The optical dispersion parameters obtained from the Wemple−DiDomenico model were consistent with these trends. Electrical characterization showed enhanced DC conductivity with increasing TiO₂ content and a marked reduction in thermal activation energy from 2.54 eV for the neat blend to 0.98 eV at higher TiO₂ loading, confirming facilitated charge transport in nanocomposite system. Mechanical characterization indicated that TiO₂ reinforcement improved both stiffness and strength, with the 6 wt.% sample achieving an optimal strength–ductility synergy (8.9 MPa and 121.5% elongation). Additionally, TiO₂ loading significantly boosted antibacterial performance, particularly against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus at 8 wt.%. These multifunctional properties position PVA/PVP:TiO₂ nanofibers as highly promising candidates for flexible biomedical coatings, optoelectronic devices, and advanced functional surfaces. Full article

Introduction: It is accepted that nano- and micro-plastic (NMP) pollutants threaten ecosystems and human health by their bioaccumulation but, interestingly, their toxicity is shape-dependent. However, a clear definition of irregular NMPs, as the dominant shape in environmental and biological samples, is currently lacking when compared to spherical and fibrous NMPs. Objectives: This study quantifies morphometric descriptors in order to develop a standardized definition for irregular NMPs. Methods: Hyperspectral images of 34 spherical, 50 fibrous, and 45 irregular NMPs were collected from the literature. All shape-related features reported previously were analyzed using a machine learning model. Using five-fold cross-validation, a decision tree-based ensemble classifier with fixed parameters and Gini coefficient was established to screen key morphometric descriptors and their optimal interval ranges. The model was independently validated, enabling the accurate distinction of irregular NMPs from spherical and fibrous NMPs. Results: Three morphometric descriptors, including circularity, roundness, and perimeter-to-area ratio, were identified using five-fold cross-validation as optimal indicators for NMP shape classification. Optimal interval ranges for irregular NMPs were as follows: circularity (0.388 ± 0.004–0.768 ± 0.004), roundness (0.248 ± 0.01–0.752 ± 0.06) and perimeter-to-area ratio (>11.608 ± 1.39). This approach generated a 96.0% macro-averaged accuracy across these NMPs, with 100% precision and 89.0% recall. Conclusions: Irregular NMPs may be characterized using three morphometric descriptors, such as circularity, roundness, and perimeter-to-area ratio. The three-descriptor combination has highly accurate discrimination from spherical and fibrous NMPs. Full article

The treatment of skin diseases remains a significant clinical challenge. Cellulose and its derivatives have emerged as research hotspots in skin-related applications due to their excellent biocompatibility, structural modifiability, and biomimetic properties. This review systematically summarizes the diverse construction forms of cellulose-based materials, including films, nanofibrous scaffolds, hydrogels, and aerogels, with a focus on smart responsive systems tailored to various microenvironmental conditions. Their application progresses in acute/chronic wound healing, bacterial infections, burns, scar prevention, immunomodulation, and smart wearable monitoring are highlighted. The underlying mechanisms involving anti-infection, pro-regeneration, microenvironment modulation, and sensing are analyzed, aiming to provide insights for further exploration of cellulose-based materials in skin disease therapy and even smart wearable devices. Full article

Efficient, low-cost catalysts are required for on-demand H₂ generation from chemical hydrides. This study utilized piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) nanofibers (NFs) as a support to encapsulate bimetallic Co–Mo nanoparticles (NPs) for H₂ production via sodium borohydride (SBH) methanolysis. The PVDF-HFP membranes were synthesized through electrospinning, followed by in situ SBH reduction, which resulted in the uniform dispersion of amorphous Co–Mo NPs within the nanofibrous matrix. The optimized CoMo-0.2@PVDF-HFP membrane exhibited a hydrogen generation rate (HGR) of 1.9 × 10³ mL·min⁻¹·g⁻¹ (Co) at 298 K, indicating a 3.6-fold improvement relative to monometallic Co. Kinetic studies showed a nearly first-order relationship with catalyst dose and a nearly zero-order relationship with respect to SBH concentration, suggesting kinetics controlled by surface saturation. The activation energy (E_a) was determined to be 14.03 kJ·mol⁻¹. Moreover, the catalyst maintained over 80% of its original activity after five cycles. This enhanced performance is attributed to the combined effects of Co and Mo, the amorphous nature of the active sites, and the piezoelectric polarization of PVDF-HFP during mechanical stirring, which together improve charge transfer and reduce NP agglomeration. Full article

Water contamination resulting from anthropogenic activities poses a critical threat to ecosystems and human health. The development of efficient, sustainable, and selective materials for water purification has therefore become a pressing necessity. In this study, polyurethanes (PUs) with tailored soft and hard segments were synthesized and characterized to evaluate their suitability for the fabrication of electrospun membranes. ATR-FTIR confirmed successful polymerization, while thermal analyses revealed that molecular design strongly influences the polymers’ thermal behavior. Among the synthesized materials, only two PUs exhibited solubility and spinnability, leading to homogeneous nanofibrous mats with average fiber diameters of approximately 500 nm. To enhance the adsorption capacity, specific surface area and interaction diversity of the membranes, metal–organic framework (MOF) particles were incorporated into the polymer solutions prior to electrospinning, allowing their immobilization within the fibrous polymer matrix. The resulting hybrid membranes showed remarkable improvements in methylene blue uptake, increasing from 29 to 34 mg·m⁻² in pristine membranes and 57 to 115 mg·m⁻² in the MOF-containing ones. This enhancement was attributed to the synergistic effect between the aromatic urethane structures and the MOF linkers, as well as to the increased effective surface area provided by the nanofibrous architecture. The results demonstrate the potential of electrospun PU-based membranes as pollutant removal, combining structural versatility, functional tunability, and compatibility. Full article

Solution electrospinning (SES) and melt electrowriting (MEW) are complementary fiber-based fabrication platforms extensively investigated in tissue engineering. SES generates fibers typically ranging from the nanometer to the low-micrometer scale, producing fibrous networks that mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) and support key cellular functions. MEW, by contrast, operates solvent-free and enables precise, layer-by-layer deposition of microfibers with well-controlled geometry, conferring the mechanical integrity and open-pore architecture that SES constructs inherently lack. Despite growing interest, the body of peer-reviewed literature reporting original hybrid SES–MEW fabrication and biological outcome data remains limited, with no comprehensive cross-tissue synthesis available to date. This narrative review examines the current state of SES–MEW hybrid strategies across five tissue engineering targets selected for their clinical relevance: skin, vascular grafts, bone, cartilage, cardiac valves, and skeletal muscle. For each application, the architectural rationale, the fabrication approach, and the in vitro and in vivo biological outcomes are discussed in an integrated manner, with attention to how the spatial organization of nano- and microfibers translates into tissue-specific functional responses. A comparative analysis across tissue types highlights both the versatility of hybrid constructs and their persistent limitations, including suture retention values that remain below clinically accepted thresholds in vascular applications, incomplete cellular infiltration through dense nanofibrous layers, and the absence of validated, reproducible scale-up protocols compatible with clinical-grade manufacturing. The review concludes by identifying the most critical open questions in the field, encompassing process standardization, regulatory classification, and the emerging role of machine learning in closed-loop MEW process optimization. This work aims to provide an evidence-based perspective on the current state of hybrid SES–MEW scaffold engineering and the key translational gaps limiting clinical application. Full article

The need for reliable preventive medicine tools is growing, especially for diseases with long diagnostic delays, such as endometriosis, which can take several years to diagnose. In this context, cellulose acetate nanofibrous membranes were prepared via electrospinning, to create the absorbent core of a smart wearable in the form of a sanitary pad, intended to support electronic diagnostic devices. A multi-layered structure was opted for, with each layer acting in a specific way according to its position within the pad, regarding mainly absorbency and porosity. The membranes were ultralight and highly absorbent, with single membranes showing an absorbency of 20–70 times their initial weight, and multi-layered membranes 15–30 times. Morphological evaluation of the pad was used as the basis for the optimization of the fabrication parameters, while liquid absorption capacity confirmed the pad’s high absorbency. Additionally, chemical and toxicological assessments indicated in vitro biocompatibility of the pad. The potential of the electrospinning process in the fabrication of menstrual hygiene pads is shown by these results. Future studies should focus on the integration of smart devices within the pad, as well as their functionality and effectiveness. Full article

This study examined how the extraction medium used to obtain Quercus robur extracts influenced the properties of electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) mats intended for potential active packaging applications. Extracts prepared with 50% ethanol and with a choline chloride:lactic acid:water system were incorporated into PVA spinning solutions, and their effects on solution properties, fiber morphology, thermal behavior, crosslinking response, and polyphenol release were evaluated. The type of extraction medium affected both the electrospinning process and the structure of the resulting materials. Ethanol-derived extracts reduced solution viscosity and promoted the formation of thinner fibers, whereas systems containing the choline chloride:lactic acid:water-derived extract showed higher conductivity and lower electrospinning stability. Crosslinking with tannic acid in water led to the collapse of the fibrous structure, while ethanolic tannic acid treatment preserved the nanofibrous morphology more effectively. FTIR analysis indicated differences in intermolecular interactions within the polymer matrix, consistent with the observed changes in structural stability and release behavior. Thermal analysis showed that ethanol-derived extracts lowered the thermal stability of the PVA matrix, whereas the choline chloride:lactic acid:water-derived system altered the degradation pathway and increased the amount of solid residue formed during heating. Release studies demonstrated a rapid burst release for ethanol-based mats and a more sustained release profile for mats containing the choline chloride:lactic acid:water-derived extract. Selected extract-containing and ethanol–tannic acid-crosslinked mats also showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The results showed that the extraction medium significantly affected polymer–extract interactions and the functional properties of electrospun PVA mats. At the same time, the conclusions refer specifically to the tested solvent systems, and broader generalization to other natural deep eutectic solvent-type formulations requires further comparative studies. Full article

Bone tissue plays a vital role in the human body and possesses intrinsic self-repair mechanisms; however, large defects or pathological fractures may exceed its natural healing capacity. Bone tissue engineering provides promising strategies to restore bone integrity through the use of scaffolds, growth factors, and stem cells. While calcium phosphate (CaP)-based ceramics, such as hydroxyapatite (HAp) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP), represent the current benchmark, their limitations, including slow degradation (HAp) and limited osteoinductivity (TCP), have driven the development of alternative biomaterials. In this context, magnesium phosphate (MgP)-based materials have gained increasing attention due to their tunable resorption rate, improved biodegradability, and ability to stimulate osteogenesis and angiogenesis through the release of magnesium (Mg²⁺) ions. This study reports on composite scaffolds based on electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) fibres coated with MgP layers doped with lithium (Li) and zinc (Zn), designed to mimic the nanofibrous architecture of the extracellular matrix. Lithium and zinc were selected due to their known ability to modulate cellular response, with lithium promoting osteogenic activity and zinc contributing to improved cell proliferation and antibacterial potential. The phosphate phases obtained by coprecipitation were deposited onto the PCL fibres using Matrix-Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE), enabling controlled surface functionalization. Following thermal treatment, the formation of the crystalline magnesium pyrophosphate (Mg₂P₂O₇) phase was confirmed by chemical and structural characterization. The combination of a slowly degrading PCL matrix, providing sustained structural support, and a bioactive MgP coating, enabling rapid and controlled ion release, results in improved scaffold performance in terms of biocompatibility, biodegradability, and bioactivity. While the slow degradation rate of PCL ensures mechanical stability over an extended period, the surface-deposited MgP phase allows immediate interaction with the biological environment, facilitating faster ion release and enhancing cell–material interactions. These findings highlight the potential of the developed composites as promising candidates for trabecular bone regeneration and as viable alternatives to conventional CaP-based scaffolds in regenerative medicine. Full article

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) are prevalent conditions affecting men’s sexual health, for which tadalafil and dapoxetine have shown promise in their treatment, respectively. Conventional oral dosage forms face limitations, including variable absorption and delayed onset of action. In this study, we developed electrospun nanofibers using polyvinylpyrrolidone for buccal drug delivery as an alternative dosage form to oral tablets. This route offers advantages such as easy administration, suitability for those with difficulty swallowing, particularly the elderly, and a rapid onset of action via the blood capillaries, which might improve bioavailability. Methods: PVP nanofibers loaded with tadalafil and dapoxetine were fabricated using a modified electrospinning procedure with the Spraybase system, where an 8% (w/v) PVP ethanol solution containing 1.5% dapoxetine and 0.5% tadalafil was electrospun under controlled conditions (800 µL/h flow rate, 15 cm distance, 0.55 mm needle, and 8–10 kV) to produce uniform fibers. Results: The morphology of the nanofibers was characterized using SEM, revealing smooth, uniform fibers with an average diameter of 218 ± 50 nm for drug-loaded nanofibers. This nanofibrous system also demonstrated ultra-rapid disintegration occurring within 4 ± 1 s and consistent drug loading and encapsulation efficiency for both drugs. The release profile showed a burst drug release after 15 min, which accounted for >45% for tadalafil and >50% for dapoxetine, followed by a sustained increment in the drug release that reached > 60% for tadalafil and >78% for dapoxetine after 30 min until a complete drug release (100%) for both drugs after 180 min. In vitro cytotoxicity studies on human dermal fibroblasts confirmed the safety of both medications, with cell viability exceeding 50%, at concentrations of 1.56 to 25 µg/mL for tadalafil and 4.69 to 9.38 µg/mL for dapoxetine after 24 and 48 h of incubation. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of PVP-based nanofibers as a novel buccal delivery system for the combined treatment of ED and PE. Full article

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have re-emerged as promising anti-infective agents, particularly against multidrug-resistant bacteria; however, their therapeutic development remains constrained by proteolytic degradation, host cell toxicity, and rapid systemic clearance. Rather than focusing solely on sequence discovery, recent efforts have shifted toward structural and supramolecular modification strategies aimed at improving stability, selectivity, and pharmacological performance. This review critically analyzes intramolecular modifications—including phosphorylation, glycosylation, acetylation, methylation, and backbone cyclization—that modulate peptide conformation and resistance to enzymatic degradation. In parallel, extramolecular approaches such as PEGylation, lipidation, and conjugation to antibiotics, siderophores, or antibodies are examined in the context of enhanced targeting and prolonged bioavailability. Particular emphasis is placed on localized delivery systems, including hydrogels, polymeric films, and nanofibrous scaffolds, which enable spatially controlled administration and mitigate systemic exposure. By integrating evidence from ex vivo and in vivo infection models, this work delineates the translational potential and remaining bottlenecks of chemically engineered AMP platforms for skin and soft tissue infections. Full article

Ocular infections and inflammation represent a clear risk to eye health, but standard eye masks often lack the necessary therapeutic features. Moreover, most existing studies employ a blended electrospinning approach, which leads to an inhomogeneous spatial distribution of the therapeutic agents. However, using the coaxial technique can address these limitations. This study develops a coaxial electrospun nanofibrous eye mask with dual antibacterial and antioxidant functions, aiming to provide an innovative ocular treatment tool for eye care. Generally, a core-shell structured bilayer polycaprolactone-polylysine/polyvinyl alcohol-resveratrol (PCL-PLs/PVA-RSV) membrane is successfully prepared by coaxial electrospinning, where the core is resveratrol-loaded PVA and the shell is PLs-loaded PCL. Results show uniform fiber morphology, favorable hydrophilicity, and potential for sustained release due to core-shell design. The membrane significantly inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli); at the same time, it exhibits excellent free radical scavenging ability and good component biocompatibility, achieving slow release of the two drugs and long-term antioxidant effect. This multifunctional platform offers a synergistic approach to combating microbial infection and oxidative stress, showing great potential for eye care. Full article