Modern wound dressings are used for burn injuries to prevent complications such as infection and to promote tissue regeneration. In this study, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), acrylamide (AAm), and silicone were simultaneously copolymerized in a dioxane solution via an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) method to produce nanoparticles (NPs). In the next step, to fabricate nanocomposite (NC) films for wound dressing applications, the IPN NPs were blended with silicone and zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs as an antibacterial agent. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the synthesized IPN NPs had an average size of approximately 17 nm. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis of the samples confirmed the presence of the characteristic functional groups of the NC films. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that the NC films had a homogeneous structure with well-dispersed NPs. Despite the high silicone content, the films exhibited an acceptable swelling ratio (up to 165%). Biological studies using L929 mouse fibroblast cells showed that the samples were biocompatible. In vivo wound-healing studies in a rat wound model specified improved healing compared with the control group, with complete re-epithelialization within 14 days. Histological analysis indicated neovascularization and tissue regeneration. Overall, the synthesized NC films show potential as wound dressings.
This paper focuses on the study of factors influencing the performance of 4D-printed PFO occluder frames. First, polyethylene glycol (PEG, Mn = 2000) was used to blend and modify polylactic acid (PLA). At a PEG content of 15%, the glass transition temperature of the blend decreased from 74°C for pure PLA to 56°C, with a significant increase in hydrophilicity and the water contact angle decreased from 74° to 62°. Regarding mechanical properties, tensile strength decreased from 60.0 ± 1.8 MPa to 27.5 ± 1.2 MPa, while elongation at break increased substantially from 4.8 ± 0.8% to 300 ± 50.2%.When PEG content was increased to 25%, the glass transition temperature decreased to 58°C, hydrophilicity continued to enhance, and the contact angle decreased to 54°. At this point, tensile strength decreased to 15.6 ± 2.0 MPa, while elongation at break further increased to 432.5 ± 30.2%. Then, orthogonal + response surface experiments were conducted to optimize the FDM 4D printing process parameters, identifying fill rate as the key factor influencing the shape recovery rate and tensile strength of PLA parts. A regression model was established linking tensile strength to printing temperature, speed, and fill rate. Mechanical testing indicated that the 8-ligament occluder exhibited the best mechanical properties, while shape memory recovery rate tests showed that occluders made from PLA/PEG2K-25 filament had superior shape recovery rates compared to those made from PLA/PEG2K-15. The study demonstrates that through PEG modification of PLA and control of the 4D printing process, comprehensive optimization of the mechanical and shape memory properties of PFO occluder frameworks can be achieved.
Herein we report a one-pot strategy for the synthesis and functionalization of hyperbranched polytriazoles by means of the Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of an AB2-type monomer containing an alkyne and two azide groups. The AB2 monomer is synthesized starting from dimethyl 5-hydroxyisophthalate in four steps with an overall yield of 58%, and the synthesis and purification are straightforward. The synthesis of end-capped hyperbranched polytriazoles (HBPTs) can be achieved via the Huisgen cycloaddition of the AB2 monomer using only heat, followed by functionalization with either sulfonic acid (-SO3H) or pentafluorophenyl (-Ph-F5) end groups. The resulting functional hyperbranched polytriazoles, HBPT-Ph-SO3H and HBPT-Ph-F5, are characterized by 1H NMR and FT-IR spectroscopies as well as gel-permeation chromatography. The film is fabricated simply by blending the two polymers, and the ion exchange capacity and ion conductivity are measured.
The agricultural sector faces significant challenges from weed-induced crop losses, driving increased herbicide use and associated environmental and health risks. Controlled-release formulations (CRFs) of herbicides offer a promising solution by employing advanced materials such as synthetic and natural polymers, clay minerals, siliceous materials, and nanoparticles to optimize the release and efficacy of active ingredients (AIs). This review explores the mechanisms of controlled release - desorption, diffusion, osmosis, and matrix dissolution - and examines the role of carrier properties in modulating AI release kinetics. Advances in smart nanocarriers and encapsulation technologies demonstrate improved precision, reduced herbicide usage, and minimal impact on soil microbiomes, fostering sustainable agriculture. Despite these innovations, challenges remain in standardizing processes, enhancing cost-effectiveness, and scaling up field applications. This study emphasizes the critical balance between improving agricultural productivity and minimizing ecological harm, highlighting the potential of CRFs to revolutionize weed management practices while preserving soil health and ecosystem integrity.
Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders are the leading cause of illness and affect the everyday lives of people all around the globe and are predicted to increase tremendously in the upcoming decades. Traditional methods of delivering drugs to the CNS face considerable limitations. Nose-to-brain targeting offers a promising alternative that bypasses the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enabling targeted drug administration to the central nervous system (CNS). Nanotechnology has brought forward innovative solutions to the challenges of drug delivery in CNS disorders. Nanocarriers such as liposomes, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions and dendrimers can enhance drug stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery to the brain. These nanocarriers are designed to overcome physiological barriers and provide controlled and sustained drug release directly to the CNS. Nanocarrier technology has made significant strides in recent years, enabling more effective and targeted delivery of drugs to the brain. With recent advancements, intranasal delivery coupled with nanocarriers seems to be a promising combination that can provide better clinical profiles, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics for neurodegenerative disorders. This study focuses on exploring the nose-to-brain drug delivery system, emphasizing the use of various nanocarriers designed for this purpose. Additionally, the study encompasses recent advancements in nanocarrier technology tailored specifically to improve the efficiency of drug administration through the nasal route to the brain.
