Conventional ureteral stents often face a critical trade-off between radial support and lumen patency, compromising drainage performance under compression. To overcome this, we designed a novel interlocked bi-layer nitinol (NiTi) braided stent. A thread-inspired interlocking strategy between the inner and outer layers was achieved by introducing a thick NiTi wire into the inner layer, significantly enhancing interlayer bonding (64.10 ± 5.62 cN). The optimized stent featured an ultra-thin wall structure (0.31 ± 0.03 mm), which enabled a 29.03% larger lumen diameter while providing a 174.38% higher radial strength (2215.44 ± 42.87 cN) compared to commercial polyurethane (PU) ureteral stents. Moreover, it demonstrated superior flexibility, with a bending stiffness of 0.87 ± 0.07 N·mm2. Under simulated ureteral obstruction model (1.0 mm constant compression) with low renal pressure, the stent preserved 33.56% of its initial drainage rate, while the PU stent lost virtually all flow. Additionally, the retention force (24.08 ± 0.98 cN), optimized via J-end geometry, was equivalent to clinical standards. This study introduces a structurally reinforced, drainage-efficient ureteral stent that synergistically improves lumen patency, mechanical robustness, and anchoring performance. The proposed interlocked bi-layer braiding concept offers a scalable design strategy for next-generation stents and other minimally invasive tubular implants.

Swelling-dependent self-folding hydrogels show considerable promise for tissue engineering applications. However, current systems face limitations in cell growth within the passive layer. This study introduces a novel approach to developing swelling-dependent bilayer hydrogels using biocompatible and biodegradable composites of methacrylated silk fibroin and methacrylated gelatin (SilMA-GelMA) through a "sonication-photocrosslinking" strategy. The sonication treatment induces beta-sheets (β-sheets) formation in silk fibroin molecules, creating a stable, less swellable passive layer while maintaining material consistency across the bilayer structure. Comprehensive characterization revealed significant differences in swelling ratio, mechanical properties, and degradation profiles between sonicated and nonsonicated layers. The optimized bilayer hydrogel composed of 50% GelMA with 50% SilMA (GS5) as the active layer and sonicated GS5 (GSS5) as the passive layer demonstrated efficient self-folding behavior, forming complete tubular structures after incubation. Furthermore, cell encapsulation experiments with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) revealed high cellular viability and proliferation in both sonicated and nonsonicated hydrogel layers over a 5-day culture period. This biocompatible and biodegradable swelling-dependent self-folding hydrogel provides a promising platform for creating complex, cell-laden tissue engineering constructs with controlled spatial distribution of cells and is particularly suitable for tubular tissue applications such as vascular engineering and the formation of other hollow organ structures where precisely controlled cellular organization is essential for proper function.

Developing a drug-eluting esophageal stent (DEES), which provides both mechanical support and local chemotherapy, represents a preferred treatment option for patients with advanced esophageal cancer. However, existing DEES have limitations such as drug loading via surface micro/nano-structures or physical blending of drugs into polymer covering, often lead to issues like initial burst release, short-lasting therapeutic effects, or compromised mechanical properties. To address the above challenges, we synthesized gemcitabine (GEM) blocked biodegradable polyurethane (PG) and then covered it around the surface of nickel-titanium (NiTi) stent via electrospinning to form nanofibers covered stent. This electrospun PG nanofibers achieved firm adhesion without compromising the original mechanical integrity of NiTi stent. In vitro data demonstrated that the PG fibers presented prominent antitumor therapy effect and antiangiogenesis ability, as well as enabled degradation-associated drug release, resulting in less than 1% initial burst release within 24 h and sustained release over 24 weeks. In vivo assessments indicated that the PG fibers could continuously inhibit tumor growth by inducing tumor cell apoptosis and suppressing tumor angiogenesis. This study demonstrates the bioactive nanofibers covered stent with matched mechanics and durable efficacious antitumor, which could offer a potential strategy for treating esophageal cancer via local chemotherapy.

Low-temperature-resistant actuating materials are highly desirable for enabling exploration in extreme environments, such as polar regions or outer space. However, most electrochemically active polymers experience severe performance degradation at subzero temperatures due to impaired ionic and electronic transport. Consequently, achieving temperature-tolerant electrochemical actuation remains a significant challenge. Herein, a soft electrochemical actuator is developed based on a self-supporting polypyrrole membrane featuring hollow vesicles structures with coral-like rods. This hierarchical structure ensures a continuous conductive network and facilitates rapid ion diffusion, enabling stable actuation performance even at −24°C. The actuator demonstrates remarkable performance, including large actuation strain (∼37%), low energy consumption per unit strain (0.12 mW cm −2 % −1 ), high coulombic efficiency (1.76 mC mg −1 deg −1 ), and a substantial deformation angle of ∼98°. These results highlight the significance of morphological design in enhancing electrochemical responsiveness under extreme conditions. This work offers a promising strategy for developing next-generation low-temperature electrochemical actuators.

Postoperative tendon adhesion is a significant clinical challenge that impairs functional recovery. Current anti-adhesion barriers often fail due to a mismatch between their mechanical properties and the dynamic in vivo environment, leading to structural instability and functional degradation. Inspired by the natural tendon sheath, this study reports a biomimetic, fiber-gel composite patch (NFGL) with a stable, interlocking, one-piece structure. By integrating a lubricating hyaluronic acid/polyvinyl alcohol (HA/PVA) hydrogel with electrospun chitosan/ polycaprolactone (CS/PCL) nanofibers through mechanical interlocking and supramolecular interactions, the NFGL patch replicates the native tissue's J-shaped stress-strain behavior, exhibiting the toe-region modulus of 4.54 f 2.62 MPa within a 6.14 f 0.86% strain range and a high linear modulus (8.95 f 0.89 MPa) to maintain the integrity of the patch. The integrated design ensures robust interfacial adhesion between the layers (135.64 f 2.48 N/m), preventing delamination and maintaining structural integrity. Beyond its barrier function, the matched mechanical microenvironment prevents pathological activation of myofibroblasts, maintaining tendon repair within a low-immunity environment that promotes orderly collagen fiber regeneration. This study proposes a promising bionic strategy for developing high-performance anti-adhesion barriers capable of withstanding the dynamic mechanical environment of healing tendons while providing an optimal microenvironment for tissue repair.

Infected bone defects present a major clinical challenge, requiring precise sequential therapy that transitions from antibacterial activity to bone regeneration. Piezoelectric materials can transduce external stimulation into bioelectrical cues, providing a promising controllable handle to regulate antibacterial and osteogenic processes. However, conventional piezoelectric scaffolds often lack the capacity to distinctly separate these multifunctional roles, making it difficult to meet the therapeutic needs of different stages in the treatment of infected bone defects. Here, we develop a programmable NIR-responsive periosteum scaffold featuring a Janus bilayer architecture, in which a PDA-rich photothermal side and a non-photothermal piezoelectric side enable spatially separated antibacterial and osteogenic functions. This system integrates a thermoresponsive hydrogel with a piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride/barium titanate (PVDF/BT) electrospun membrane, achieving three switchable functional modes: continuous NIR irradiation for antibacterial therapy, intermittent irradiation for immunomodulation, and no irradiation for mechanical support and Ca2+ release to facilitate mineralization. In vitro studies demonstrated effective antibacterial efficacy and enhanced pro-healing M2 macrophage polarization, while comprehensive in vivo studies in rat models of 8 mm infected bone defect models achieved over 60% bone healing rate through programmable sequential therapy at 4 weeks. This programmable multi-mode periosteum scaffold provides a promising strategy for temporally orchestrating complex microenvironments, advancing the regenerative medicine for infected bone repair.

Hypertrophic scarring remains a major clinical challenge that impedes functional wound regeneration. Although electrical stimulation (ES) shows great promise in activating endogenous repair pathways and suppressing fibrosis, excessive exudate and bacterial infection in chronic wounds not only exacerbate inflammation but also disrupt interfacial electrical contact, thereby attenuating the efficacy of in situ-generated ES. To address this, we designed an electroactive and antibacterial Janus dressing that integrated active microenvironmental purification with wireless ES, ultimately inhibiting scar formation during wound healing. The dressing featured electroactive cotton gauze with asymmetric wettability, achieved via SiO2 and AgNPs@poly 5-hydroxytryptamine/polyethyleneimine (AgNPs@PHT/PEI) coatings to form a unidirectional fluidic gate. Enhanced by a near-infrared-driven mild photothermal effect, this design enabled rapid exudate pumping and evaporation while achieving > 99% antibacterial efficacy within 15 min. Leveraging electromagnetic induction, it delivered tunable wireless microcurrents (13.44-43.18 μA) that upregulated endogenous fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) secretion, which contributes to the downregulation of TGF-β1-driven myofibroblast activation, as evidenced by reduced α-SMA expression. This strategy achieved 99.37% closure of large infected full-thickness rat wounds, featuring highly ordered collagen remodeling. Collectively, this study presents an innovative platform for rapid healing and scar inhibition in chronic wounds, holding promise for broader applications in mitigating fibrotic disorders.

Achieving the synergistic integration of high-performance strain sensing and active biological protection within a single fiber remains a formidable challenge for advanced wearable textiles. Herein, inspired by the hierarchical architecture of tussah silk, we propose a bionic fiber integrating sensing and biological protection via wet-spinning and interfacial self-assembly. Specifically, a thermoplastic polyurethane/Ti3C2Tx MXene conductive core was employed to mimic the mechanical skeleton. Subsequently, interfacial self-assembly of polydopamine/Ti3C2Tx MXene was conducted on the fiber surface to form a robust “second conductive network”. This interfacial synergy dramatically boosts the gauge factor from 8360 to 83,810 and broadens the working strain range to 114%. Finally, a water-based polyurethane/ZIF-8/Fluralaner bionic shell was designed to replicate the biological defense of the outer cocoon. The resulting fiber exhibits excellent biocompatibility (93.17% cell viability), high-efficiency broad-spectrum antibacterial activity (>99.13% against Staphylococcus aureus and >98.49% against Escherichia coli), and a notable mosquito repellency rate of 60.14%. This work provides a scalable strategy for constructing intelligent fibers that integrate sensing and biological protection, showing great potential for wearable electronics and smart protective textiles.

To quantitatively evaluate high-grade encrustation in double-J (DJ) stents and identify its risk factors in patients undergoing ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy. This retrospective study analyzed 56 encrusted DJ stents from patients post-ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy. Encrustation severity was classified using the FECal (Forgotten, Encrusted, Calcified) grading system. Clinical, laboratory, and stent characteristic data were collected. Composition and extent of encrustation were assessed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for high-grade encrustation. Among the 56 encrusted stents, FECal grades were: I (n = 23), II (n = 12), III (n = 18), IV (n = 1), and V (n = 2). High-grade encrustation (Grades III-V) was significantly associated with female gender (66.7

Electrochemical actuators convert electrical energy directly into mechanical work, enabling applications in soft robotics and biomedical devices. In these devices, structural design governs ion transport, charge distribution, and the resulting mechanical output. Despite significant progress, the relationship between structural design and device performance has not been systematically examined across different electrochemical energy conversion systems. This review examines electrochemical actuators from a structural design perspective, covering actuation mechanisms, material systems, and fiber-based integration. Three actuation mechanisms are analyzed: redox, electric double layer, and synergistic. Their inherent limitations are discussed, along with their parallels to charge storage processes in batteries and supercapacitors. Conductive polymers are discussed through their application domains. Emerging two-dimensional materials and porous frameworks are examined through five structural engineering strategies. Five structural engineering pathways are identified: interlayer spacing modulation, heterointerface construction, protective interface design, three-dimensional (3D) network assembly, and ordered nanochannel engineering. These strategies are also relevant to electrode design in batteries and supercapacitors. Building directly on these mechanisms and structural strategies, fiber-assembled actuators are then examined as the configuration in which these principles are brought together and expressed across multiple length scales. The analysis traces their implementation from individual yarn actuators to hierarchically assembled textiles and 3D mesh networks. The review articulates the principle of synergistic material-structure-function design, identifies persistent challenges, and proposes milestones for future development.

In situ tissue-engineered heart valves (TEHVs) present significant potential to address critical limitations of conventional replacements: suboptimal hemo-compatibility in mechanical valves and compromised durability in bio-prosthetic valves, alongside their inherent inability to support growth and regeneration. However, current research predominantly employs single-scale fiber-based scaffolds with a focus on short-term outcomes, facing challenges in long-term mechanical instability and pathological remodeling. Herein, we propose an innovative mechano-immunological strategy to engineer a multiscale all-fiber TEHV scaffold, spanning drug-loaded polymer nanofibers to integrated “1D yarn–2D fabric–3D valve” via stepwise conjugate electrospinning–weaving–thermoforming assembly. Mechanical testing confirms that the hierarchically interlocked architecture exhibits excellent interfacial stability, anti-contraction capability, bending compliance, and wrinkle recovery at 1D/2D scales. The resultant 3D valve demonstrates ISO 5840-compliant hemodynamic performance while maintaining functional stability during progressive leaflet thickening. In vitro/in vivo biological evaluations further validate biosafety and concurrent functionalities: fibrotic capsule resistance, suppression of α-SMA-dominant pathological fibrosis, and M2 macrophage-polarization-driven anti-inflammatory remodeling. Collectively, this mechano-immunological combination strategy provides a potential pathway toward sustaining functional homeostasis in preclinical TEHV development.

Compression therapy is a widely used strategy for preventing post-burn scars, managing lymphedema, and rehabilitation after liposuction. However, commercially available compression garments often struggle with rapid pressure decay during clinical use. To address this issue, an adaptive fatigue-resistant knitted arm sleeve has been designed and prepared using nitinol wires in the present study, aiming to explore the feasibility of integrating shape memory wires into compression garments. The objective is to combat rapid pressure decay of the compression garments by shape memory effect of nitinol wires. Initially, nitinol wires were subjected to heat treatment at 475 degrees C for 20 min, allowing for precise control over phase transition within a narrow range of less than 5 degrees C. The treated wires exhibited a shape recovery rate (eta) of 93.22% and a martensite finish temperature (Mf) of 30.1 degrees C, close to surface temperature of human skin. Next, two types of knitted sleeves were fabricated, Sleeve A (dense) and Sleeve B (loose). Moreover, comprehensive characterisations have been carried out. The results showed that both sleeves exhibited favourable temperature response and fatigue-resistant property. They showed a maximum elastic recovery rate of 96.36% and maintained a minimum stress relaxation rate as low as 2.97%. Importantly, both sleeves sustained stable pressure during cyclic loading tests simulating three consecutive days of wear (cumulatively 22.5 h), demonstrating promising fatigue resistance during wear. Additionally, Sleeve A generated a pressure of 52.53 mmHg at 30% strain due to the shape memory effect, representing a 25.3% increase in pressure after thermal activation. The developed compression sleeves displayed remarkable shape memory properties, achieving maximum shape recovery and shape fixation rates of 97.4% and 95.37%, respectively. Overall, this study offers valuable theoretical insights and practical foundations for developing innovative, fatigue-resistant, adaptive compression garments, while highlighting the need for further clinical validation to establish therapeutic efficacy.

Medical compression stockings are essential for managing chronic venous disorders and lymphedema, yet their efficacy is often compromised by pressure decay from yarn-level structural fatigue. Here, we address this challenge through a bio-inspired multilayer spiral elastic liner yarn (MSELY) integrating a hyperelastic spandex core, a twisted Sorona (PTT/PET) inner wrap, and a helically wrapped polyamide outer layer. Systematic screening of six architectural variants identified the twisted inner-wrap configuration (BN3050) as optimal, with the best balance of tensile strength (21.23 cN/tex), elastic recovery (98.2%), and stress relaxation (10.3%). Finite element simulations contrasting twisted and untwisted inner layers revealed that twisting eliminates stress concentrations, promotes cooperative load sharing between Sorona filaments, and maintains stable inter-layer contact during large deformation (200–400% strain). Orthogonal experiments optimized the helix geometry to 800 T/m inner twist, 75% twist ratio, and 4.8 spandex draft ratio, with model validation achieving R^2=0.715.The optimized pressure stocking delivered superior fabric performance (tensile strength of 0.796 MPa at 100% strain, energy absorption of 417.69 kJ/m³) and maintained over 70% of initial pressure after 60 days, substantially outperforming commercial Class III products. By bridging yarn-scale design, numerical analysis, and functional validation, this work provides a framework for durable compression textiles with sustained therapeutic efficacy.

Long-term pressure decay caused by structural relaxation limits the durability of medical compression textiles. To address this challenge, a structure-guided multilayer spiral elastic liner yarn (MSELY) was developed by integrating a spandex core, a twisted Sorona (PTT/PET) inner layer, and a helically wrapped polyamide outer layer. Six yarn architectures were systematically evaluated to establish the structure–property relationship, and BN3050 was identified as the optimal configuration, exhibiting a breaking strength of 21.23 cN/tex, an elastic recovery of 98.2%, and a stress relaxation of 10.3%. Finite element analysis revealed that inner-layer twisting promotes continuous stress transfer and coordinated load sharing, while orthogonal experiments optimized the processing parameters and validated the analytical model. When incorporated into compression stockings, the optimized yarn improved the tensile strength (0.796 MPa at 100% strain), toughness (417.69 kJ/m³), cyclic durability, and long-term pressure retention compared with commercial Class III products, retaining more than 70% of its initial interface pressure after 60 days of simulated use. This work establishes a structure-guided design strategy for developing durable compression textiles with sustained mechanical performance and pressure stability.

Eleven hernia repair meshes implanted for up to 4 years were harvested at reoperation: 9 recurrences, 1 infection, and 1 infection associated with a fistula. They were made of polypropylene (PP) fabric and/or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). The devices shrank considerably from 12 to 53% with heavy fibrotic embedding. This shrinkage occurred due to the contraction of the fibrotic tissues that penetrated through the materials and encroached all the polymer structures. The level of inflammation was aggravated in the case of oxidation of the external surface of the PP fibers. Multiple flaking led to detachment of PP particles. In addition, the collagen bundles in the scar tissue did not show any waviness, and thus could be considered as responsible for the lack of elasticity of the encapsulating tissues. Furthermore, particles from the ePTFE structures were occasionally identified dispersed in peri-implant tissues. Despite the plethora of devices commercially available, there is still no consensus about the most appropriate one. Future hernia mesh devices should reduce fibrotic encapsulation and encourage the formation of wavy collagen fibers and thus the elasticity of the encapsulation, which would prevent mesh shrinkage and lead to the lifelong rehabilitation of the patient. The search for smart materials and novel designs must be undertaken. Future devices should demonstrate adequate long-term biostability without ignoring the importance of biocompatibility.

As a key structure between Cells and Extracellular Matrix (ECM), Basement Membranes(BM)play an irreplaceable role in maintaining tissue morphology and physiological functions, and its damage is closely related to the pathological process of many organ diseases. In recent years, bionic Artificial Basement Membranes (ABM), as innovative biomaterials, have received extensive attention in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In the present review, we systematically sorted out the distribution characteristics of BM in various tissues and organs of the human body, and then deeply analyzed the intrinsic connection between their fine structure and physiological functions. The pathological mechanisms of BM damage and related diseases (e.g., kidney disease, pulmonary fibrosis, etc.) have been described on this basis. Then, from the perspective of material science design, the latest research progress of ABM in the direction of structural biomimetic construction, functional component optimization, and bioactive modification has been comprehensively reviewed. Finally, the potential development of biomimetic ABM in clinical translational applications has been discussed concerning the technical bottlenecks in the current research. This review aims to promote the applications of ABM in biomedical fields and provide new solutions for tissue repair and regeneration.

Piezoelectric stimulation has garnered substantial interest as a promising strategy for tissue regeneration. However, studies investigating its impact on tendon-to-bone healing characterized by fibrocartilage remain scarce. Moreover, there are considerable technical challenges in achieving minimally invasive application of piezoelectric stimulation on the irregular tendon-to-bone interface. Herein, we developed Janus asymmetric piezoelectric adhesives by assembling adhesive hydrogel (GAN) and non-adhesive hydrogel (GM) on each side of piezoelectric poly (L-lactic acid) nanofiber. Piezoelectric adhesives exhibited superior anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and ex vivo. Notably, the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels, a class of versatile signaling molecules, are closely associated with the regulation of inflammation. This study demonstrated that piezoelectric stimulation promoted Ca2+ influx through the activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), further enhancing cAMP signaling pathway in macrophages by RNA sequencing. Additionally, in vivo proteomic analysis revealed Arachidonic acid metabolism and TNF-α signaling pathway downregulation and VEGF signaling pathway upregulation in a rat rotator cuff repair model. Piezoelectric adhesives ultimately achieved inflammation alleviation, angiogenesis enhancement, and fibrocartilage regeneration promotion, improving the biomechanical strength of the enthesis. This study elucidated the mechanism by which piezoelectric stimulation regulated tendon-to-bone healing through multi-omics analysis. The piezoelectric adhesives hold promise as a convenient and effective strategy for enhancing tendon-to-bone healing in clinical practice.

Facial masks are widely used in skincare, but traditional wet masks often require preservatives to prevent microbial growth, which can cause skin irritation and environmental issues due to plastic waste from excessive packaging. To address these issues, we have developed an innovative, fast-dissolving nanofibrous facial mask that delivers curcumin (Cur), a potent antioxidant, without the need for preservatives or additives. Utilizing electrospinning technology, the polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibrous mask not only serves as a reservoir that enhances the stability and solubility of Cur but also dissolves rapidly upon contact with minimal moisture, efficiently releasing the active compound onto the skin. The mask demonstrates strong antioxidant properties, with a DPPH radical scavenging rate of approximately 90 %, and excellent biocompatibility, as shown by its mild pH, high cell viability in fibroblast cultures, and non-irritating nature in HET-CAM assays. This novel design addresses key challenges in the facial mask industry, such as the reliance on preservatives, plastic waste, and the instability of active ingredients, while providing enhanced skincare benefits through the targeted delivery of Cur. Our approach offers a safe, eco-friendly, and effective alternative for anti-aging and protective skincare, with significant advantages over conventional wet masks.

Skin peripheral nerve injury repair still faces significant clinical challenges. Although nerve tissue engineering scaffolds show potential, issues such as limited functionality and low repair efficiency persist. This study developed a dual-regulation biomimetic composite nerve scaffold with oriented structure and conductive function to promote nerve injury repair. The structural layer was a chitosan (CS)/polycaprolactone (PCL) oriented nanofiber membrane, which could promote cell adhesion and induce directional growth of cells. The functional layer was a CS/sodium alginate (SA) ionic conductive hydrogel, which could enhance endogenous electric fields to promote cell proliferation and differentiation. The two layers were combined through physical crosslinking, avoiding the use of chemical adhesives and preserving the surface morphology of the nanofibrous membrane and the porous structure of the hydrogel. The biomimetic composite nerve scaffold exhibited layered degradability, excellent orientation, conductivity, and biocompatibility. Cell experiments indicated that the scaffold effectively induced directional migration, growth, and differentiation of cells and enhanced cell activity, thereby providing a favorable microenvironment for nerve regeneration. This study not only overcomes the limitation of functional singularity in traditional nerve scaffolds but also aligns with the forefront trend in tissue engineering toward multifunctional and biomimetic materials. It demonstrates great potential for treating complex conditions such as traumatic nerve defects and post-surgical nerve regeneration and has broad application prospects in the field of neural tissue engineering.