Controlled Antibiotics Release System through Simple Blended Electrospun Fibers for Sustained Antibacterial Effects

Tunable ciprofloxacin delivery through personalized electrospun patches for tympanic membrane perforations

Approximately 740 million symptomatic patients are affected by otitis media every year. Being an inflammatory disease affecting the middle ear, it is one of the primary causes of tympanic membrane (TM) perforations, often resulting in impaired hearing abilities. Antibiotic therapy using broad-spectrum fluoroquinolones, such as ciprofloxacin (CIP), is frequently employed and considered the optimal route to treat otitis media. However, patients often get exposed to high dosages to compensate for the low drug concentration reaching the affected site. Therefore, this study aims to integrate tissue engineering with drug delivery strategies to create biomimetic scaffolds promoting TM regeneration while facilitating a localized release of CIP. Distinct electrospinning (ES) modalities were designed in this regard either by blending CIP into the polymer ES solution or by incorporating nanoparticles-based co-ES/electrospraying. The combination of these modalities was investigated as well. A broad range of release kinetic profiles was achieved from the fabricated scaffolds, thereby offering a wide spectrum of antibiotic concentrations that could serve patients with diverse therapeutic needs. Furthermore, the incorporation of CIP into the TM patches demonstrated a favorable influence on their resultant mechanical properties. Biological studies performed with human mesenchymal stromal cells confirmed the absence of any cytotoxic or anti-proliferative effects from the released antibiotic. Finally, antibacterial assays validated the efficacy of CIP-loaded scaffolds in suppressing bacterial infections, highlighting their promising relevance for TM applications.

Highly Cytocompatible Polylactic Acid Based Electrospun Microfibers Loaded with Silver Nanoparticles Generated onto Chestnut Shell Lignin for Targeted Antibacterial Activity and Antioxidant Action

Electrospun (e-spun) fibers are generally regarded as powerful tools for cell growth in tissue regeneration applications, and the possibility of imparting functional properties to these materials represents an increasingly pursued goal. We report herein the preparation of hybrid materials in which an e-spun d,l-polylactic acid matrix, to which chitosan or crystalline nanocellulose was added to improve hydrophilicity, was loaded with different amounts of silver(0) nanoparticles (AgNP) generated onto chestnut shell lignin (CSL) (AgNP@CSL). A solvent-free mechanochemical method was used for efficient (85% of the theoretical value by XRD analysis) Ag(0) production from the reduction of AgNO3 by lignin. For comparison, e-spun fibers containing CSL alone were also prepared. SEM and TEM analyses confirmed the presence of AgNP@CSL (average size 30 nm) on the fibers. Different chemical assays indicated that the AgNP@CSL containing fibers exhibited marked antioxidant properties (EC50 1.6 ± 0.1 mg/mL, DPPH assay), although they were halved with respect to those of the CSL containing fibers, as expected because of the efficient silver ion reduction. All the fibers showed high cytocompatibility toward human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) representative of the self-healing process, and their antibacterial properties were tested against the pathogens Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Finally, competitive surface colonization as simulated by cocultures of hMSC and E. coli showed that AgNP@CSL loaded fibers offered the cells a targeted protection from infection, thus well balancing cytocompatibility and antibacterial properties.

Dual drug-loaded PLGA fibrous scaffolds for effective treatment of breast cancer in situ

Advanced metastatic breast cancer remains nearly an incurable disease. In situ therapy may help patients with worse prognoses have better clinical outcomes by significantly reducing systematic toxicity. Dural-drug fibrous scaffold was created and assessed using an in-situ therapeutic strategy, simulating the preferred regimens advised by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. DOX, a once-used chemotherapy drug is embedded into scaffolds and produces a fast release for two cycles to kill tumor cells. PTX, a hydrophobic drug is continuously injected and produces a gradual release for up to two cycles to treat long cycles. Chosen drug loading system and the designated fabrication parameter controlled the releasing profile. Drug carrier system complied with the clinical regimen. It demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo anti-proliferative effects on the breast cancer model. The dosage of an intratumoral injection to drug capsules, the local tissue toxicity could be significantly reduced. To optimized intravenous injection with dual drugs, fewer side effects and a higher survival rate were seen even in the large tumor model (450-550 mm³). Drug delivery system makes the precise accumulation of the topical drug concentration possible, simulating clinically successful therapy and possibly offering better clinical treatment options for solid tumors.

Electrospun polycaprolactone nanofibers functionalized with Achillea millefolium extract yield biomaterial with antibacterial, antioxidant and improved mechanical properties

In this study, polycaprolactone (PCL), as a biocompatible polymer was functionalized by addition of medicinal plant extract- Achillea millefolium L. (yarrow). Nanofiber mats were fabricated from PCL solutions containing dry yarrow extract in four concentrations (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% relative to the weight of the polymer) by using blend electrospinning method. The nanofibers were characterized for their biological, mechanical and drug release behavior. In vitro release of yarrow polyphenols from the electrospun PCL nanofibers over a period of 5 days showed the release of up to 98% of the total loaded polyphenols. The released polyphenols retained its antioxidant activity, which was determined by DPPH assay. Electrospun PCL/yarrow nanofiber mats exhibited the antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus, but had no effect on the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. All PCL/yarrow nanofiber mats had improved mechanical properties compared to the neat PCL nanofibers, as evident by an increase in Young's modulus of elasticity (up to 5.7 times), the tensile strength (up to 5.5 times), and the strain at break (up to 1.45 times). Based on our results, yarrow-loaded PCL nanofiber mats appeared to be multi-functional biomaterials suitable for the production of catheter-coating materials, patches, or gauzes with antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Mechanisms Affecting Physical Aging and Swelling by Blending an Amphiphilic Component

Polymer blending is a promising method to overcome stability obstacles induced by physical aging and swelling of implant scaffolds prepared from amorphous polymers in biomedical application, since it will not bring potential toxicity compared with chemical modification. However, the mechanism of polymer blending still remains unclearly explained in existing studies that fail to provide theoretical references in material R&D processes for stability improvement of the scaffold during ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization, long-term storage, and clinical application. In this study, amphiphilic poly(ethylene glycol)-co-poly(lactic acid) (PELA) was blended with amorphous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) because of its good miscibility so as to adjust the glass transition temperature (Tg) and hydrophilicity of electrospun PLGA membranes. By characterizing the morphological stability and mechanical performance, the chain movement and the glass transition behavior of the polymer during the physical aging and swelling process were studied. This study revealed the modification mechanism of polymer blending at the molecular chain level, which will contribute to stability improvement and performance adjustment of implant scaffolds in biomedical application.

Advancement of Gallium and Gallium-Based Compounds as Antimicrobial Agents

With the abuse and misuse of antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance has become a challenging issue in the medical system. Iatrogenic and non-iatrogenic infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens pose serious threats to global human life and health because the efficacy of traditional antibiotics has been greatly reduced and the resulting socio-economic burden has increased. It is important to find and develop non-antibiotic-dependent antibacterial strategies because the development of new antibiotics can hardly keep pace with the emergence of resistant bacteria. Gallium (III) is a multi-target antibacterial agent that has an excellent antibacterial activity, especially against MDR pathogens; thus, a gallium (III)-based treatment is expected to become a new antibacterial strategy. However, some limitations of gallium ions as antimicrobials still exist, including low bioavailability and explosive release. In recent years, with the development of nanomaterials and clathrates, the progress of manufacturing technology, and the emergence of synergistic antibacterial strategies, the antibacterial activities of gallium have greatly improved, and the scope of application in medical systems has expanded. This review summarizes the advancement of current optimization for these key factors. This review will enrich the knowledge about the efficiency and mechanism of various gallium-based antibacterial agents and provide strategies for the improvement of the antibacterial activity of gallium-based compounds.

Ciprofloxacin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles incorporated electrospun fibers for drug delivery in tissue engineering applications

Presented work focuses on the development of biodegradable polymer nanoparticles loaded with antibiotics as drug delivery systems deposited on electrospun scaffolds for tissue engineering. The innovative ciprofloxacin-loaded poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) NPs ensure a continuous slow release and high local concentration at the site of action for an optimal therapy. The local delivery of antibiotics as an integrated part of electrospun scaffolds offers an effective, safe, and smart enhancement supporting tissue regeneration. Presented data provides solid scientific evidence for fulfilling the requirements of local nano antibiotic delivery systems with biodegradability and biocompatibility for a wide range of tissue engineering applications, including middle ear tissues (e.g., tympanic membranes) which are subject to bacterial infections. Further characterization of such systems, including in vivo studies, is required to ensure successful transfer from lab to clinical applications. Graphical abstract .

Melt Electrospinning of Polymers: Blends, Nanocomposites, Additives and Applications

Melt electrospinning has been developed in the last decade as an eco-friendly and solvent-free process to fill the gap between the advantages of solution electrospinning and the need of a cost-effective technique for industrial applications. Although the benefits of using melt electrospinning compared to solution electrospinning are impressive, there are still challenges that should be solved. These mainly concern to the improvement of polymer melt processability with reduction of polymer degradation and enhancement of fiber stability; and the achievement of a good control over the fiber size and especially for the production of large scale ultrafine fibers. This review is focused in the last research works discussing the different melt processing techniques, the most significant melt processing parameters, the incorporation of different additives (e.g., viscosity and conductivity modifiers), the development of polymer blends and nanocomposites, the new potential applications and the use of drug-loaded melt electrospun scaffolds for biomedical applications.

Antimicrobial effects of positively charged, conductive electrospun polymer fibers

In recent years, electrospun polymer fibers have gained attention for various antibacterial applications. In this work, the effect of positively charged polymer fiber mats as antibacterial gauze is studied using electrospun poly(caprolactone) and polyaniline nanofibers. Chloroxylenol, an established anti-microbial agent is used for the first time as a secondary dopant to polyaniline during the electrospinning process to make the surface of the polyaniline fiber positively charged. Both Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli are used to investigate the antibacterial activity of the positively charged and uncharged polymer surfaces. The results surprisingly show that the polyaniline surface can inhibit the growth of both bacteria even when chloroxylenol is used below its minimum inhibitory concentration. This study provides new insights allowing the better understanding of dopant-based, intrinsically conducting polymer surfaces for use as antibacterial fiber mats.

Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fouling Capabilities of Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene) Derivative Nanohybrid Coatings on SUS316L Stainless Steel by Electrochemical Polymerization

We have successfully fabricated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) derivative nanohybrid coatings on flexible SUS316L stainless steel by electrochemical polymerization, which can offer anti-fouling and anti-bacterial capabilities. PEDOT derivative nanohybrids were prepared from polystyrene sulfonates (PSS) and graphene oxide (GO) incorporated into a conducting polymer of PEDOT. Additionally, the negative charge of the PEDOT/GO substrate was further modified by poly-diallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDA) to form a positively charged surface. These PEDOT derivative nanohybrid coatings could provide a straightforward means of controlling the surface energy, roughness, and charges with the addition of various derivatives in the electrochemical polymerization and electrostatically absorbed process. The characteristics of the PEDOT derivative nanohybrid coatings were evaluated by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), water contact angle, and surface potential (zeta potential). The results show that PEDOT/PSS and PEDOT/GO nanohybrid coatings exhibit excellent anti-fouling capability. Only 0.1% of bacteria can be adhered on the surface due to the lower surface roughness and negative charge surface by PEDOT/PSS and PEDOT/GO modification. Furthermore, the anti-bacterial capability (7 mm of inhibition zone) was observed after adding PDDA on the PEDOT/GO substrates, suggesting that the positive charge of the PEDOT/GO/PDDA substrate can effectively kill bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). Given their anti-fouling and anti-bacterial capabilities, PEDOT derivative nanohybrid coatings have the potential to be applied to biomedical devices such as cardiovascular stents and surgical apparatus.

Recent advances in the implant-based drug delivery in otorhinolaryngology

The surgical implant is an interdisciplinary therapeutic modality that offers unique advantages in the daily practice of otorhinolaryngology. Some well-known examples include cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing aids, sinus stents, and tracheostomy tubes. Neuroprotective, osteogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects are among their established or pursued functions. Implant-based drug delivery affords an efficient and potent approach to enhancing these therapeutic functions. Recent innovations have infiltrated all four elements of a drug-eluting implant. The purpose of this pre-clinical, biotechnology-oriented review is to discuss these developments in terms of the implant biomaterial, loaded medication, delivery pattern, and system fabrication. Cell-mediated neurotrophin release, fabrication of a hydroxyapatite-supported system, biodegradable polymer-based implants, and multiclass and multidrug delivery are some representative advancements. The ultimate goal here is to bridge the gap between biotechnology advances and clinical needs. The review is concluded with a perspective regarding the future opportunities and challenges in this popular and rapidly developing subject of research. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Surgical implants and local drug delivery are representative modern modalities of surgical treatment and medical treatment, respectively. Their synergy offers unique therapeutic advantages, such as minimal systemic side effects, proximity-related high efficiency, and potential absorbability. The applications of implant-based drug delivery have infiltrated otorhinolaryngology and head & neck surgery, which is well known for its related tissue diversity and surgical complexity. Examples discussed here include cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing aids, sinus stents, and airway tubes. This timely review focuses primarily on the four fundamental components of an implant-based drug delivery system, namely implant biomaterial, loaded medication, delivery pattern, and system fabrication. A particular emphasis is placed upon the in vitro cellular and in vivo animal studies that demonstrate pre-clinical potentials.

Bi-layered Nanofibers Membrane Loaded with Titanium Oxide and Tetracycline as Controlled Drug Delivery System for Wound Dressing Applications

The aim of this study is to develop a novel functional bi-layered membrane loaded titanium oxide (TiO₂) and tetracycline (TTC) for application in wound dressing. The advantages of the electrospinning technique have to be considered for the uniform distribution of nanoparticles and TTC drug. The as prepared nanofibers and TiO₂ were characterized in terms of morphology, fiber diameter, mechanical properties and surface wettability. The in vitro drug release study revealed initial burst release followed by a sustained control release of TTC for 4 days. The in vitro antibacterial of the bi-layered nanofibers was conducted against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria species showing excellent antibacterial effect for drug loaded samples compared with PCL nanofibers. Subsequently, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) were used to evaluate its biocompatibility in vitro. Our results revealed that the bi-layered membrane has better antibacterial and cell compatibility than the control fiber. This suggests that the fabricated biocompatible scaffold is appropriate for a variety of wound dressing applications.

Synthesis of carboxymethylated nanocellulose fabricated ciprofloxacine - Montmorillonite composite for sustained delivery of antibiotics

Montmorillonite (MMT) is a highly promising material for use in drug delivery due to its high drug loading capacity and controlled drug release properties. MMT protects drug molecules between layered structure; however, drug release from MMT is sustained less than 6 h, which is insufficient for the release of antibiotics. This study sought to synthesize an antibiotic delivery material with more sustained release properties. A ciprofloxacin (CIP)-MMT composite was fabricated using carboxymethylated nanocellulose (CMCNF). A simple adsorption reaction intercalated 31.1% of CIP molecules present into the MMT under optimized conditions (pH 5, CIP = 1000 mg/L, Reaction time = 3 h). The synthesized CIP-MMT composite was fabricated using 1.5, 2, or 3 wt% CMCNF. Increasing the CMCNF content delayed the erosion of the CMCNF matrix and prevented rapid dissolution of the CIP-MMT composite. In vitro release experiments revealed that the CIP-MMT composite material provided the sustained release of CIP over 6 h. Erosion of the 3 wt% CMCNF-CIP-MMT composite occurred slowly and provided 48 h of sustained CIP release. An anti-bacterial test revealed that the 3 wt% CMCNF-CIP-MMT composite displayed the most constant antibacterial activity over 12 days. These results demonstrated that the CMCNF prepared with CIP intercalation in MMT was highly effective in prolonging the antibiotic release.

Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) grafted hyaluronic acid-based electrospun fibrous hemostatic fragments as a sustainable anti-infection and immunoregulation material

Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) copolymers are promising synthetic materials in the biomedical field. However, in wound management, their hydrophobic properties limit their further application because of their poor adhesion to the surface of moist wounds. Furthermore, the lack of hemostatic materials with sustainable anti-infection and immunoregulation functions remains a highly significant clinical problem, as commercially available hemostatic products, such as Arista™, Celox™ and QuikClot™, do not have sufficient infection prevention and immunoregulation properties. Herein, we employ electrospinning, ammonia dissociation and surface grafting techniques to develop a series of PLGA-based hemostatic materials, including a PLGA electrospun fibrous membrane, PLGA-NH2 fibrous particles and PLGA-hyaluronic acid fibrous fragments (PLGA-HA FFs). Notably, we load azithromycin on the PLGA-HA FFs to endow them with anti-infection and immunoregulation properties. The hemostatic mechanism analysis demonstrates that the PLGA-HA FFs show superior hemostasis performance compared to traditional gauzes. The results show that the PLGA-HA FFs can act as a versatile platform with high encapsulation of azithromycin (83.03% ± 2.81%) and rapid hemostasis (28 ± 2 s) as well as prominent cytocompatibility towards L929 cells, RAW 264.7 cells and red blood cells. We believe that the current research proposes a possible strategy to synthesize materials that achieve not only safe and effective hemostasis, but also have anti-infection and immunoregulation properties for the development of further hemostatic products.

Spinning and Applications of Bioinspired Fiber Systems

Natural fiber systems provide inspirations for artificial fiber spinning and applications. Through a long process of trial and error, great progress has been made in recent years. The natural fiber itself, especially silks, and the formation mechanism are better understood, and some of the essential factors are implemented in artificial spinning methods, benefiting from advanced manufacturing technologies. In addition, fiber-based materials produced via bioinspired spinning methods find an increasingly wide range of biomedical, optoelectronic, and environmental engineering applications. This paper reviews recent developments in the spinning and application of bioinspired fiber systems, introduces natural fiber and spinning processes and artificial spinning methods, and discusses applications of artificial fiber materials. Views on remaining challenges and the perspective on future trends are also proposed.

Chitosan Cross-Linked Bio-based Antimicrobial Polypropylene Meshes for Hernia Repair Loaded with Levofloxacin HCl via Cold Oxygen Plasma

Polypropylene (PP) large pore size nets have been most widely used implants for hernia repair. Nevertheless, the growth of bacteria within PP mesh pores after operation is a major reason of hernia recurrence. Secondly, pre-operative prophylaxis during mesh implantation has failed due to the hydrophobic nature of PP meshes. Herein, chitosan cross-linked and levofloxacin HCl incorporated, antimicrobial PP mesh devices were prepared using citric acid as a bio-based and green cross-linking agent. The inert PP mesh fibers were surface activated using O2 plasma treatment at low pressure. Then, chitosan of different molecular weights (low and medium weight) were cross-linked with O2 plasma activated surfaces using citric acid. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed that chitosan was cross-linked with O2 plasma-treated PP mesh surfaces and formed a thin layer of chitosan and levofloxacin HCl on the PP mesh surfaces. Moreover, antimicrobial properties of chitosan and levofloxacin HCl-coated PP meshes were investigated using an agar plate release method. The coated PP meshes demonstrated excellent antimicrobial inhibition zone up to 10 mm. Thus, modified PP meshes demonstrated sustained antimicrobial properties for six continuous days against Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and Escherichia coli (EC) bacteria.

Polydopamine-Inspired Surface Modification of Polypropylene Hernia Mesh Devices via Cold Oxygen Plasma: Antibacterial and Drug Release Properties

Mesh infection is a major complication of hernia surgery after polypropylene (PP) mesh implantation. Modifying the PP mesh with antibacterial drugs is an effective way to reduce the chance of infection, but the hydrophobic characteristic of PP fibers has obstructed the drug adhesion. Therefore, to prepare antimicrobial PP mesh with a stable drug coating layer and to slow the drug release property during the hernia repair process has a great practical meaning. In this work, PP meshes were coated by bio-inspired polydopamine (PDA), which can load and release levofloxacin. PP meshes were activated with cold oxygen plasma and then plasma activated PP fibers were coated with PDA. The PDA coated meshes were further soaked in levofloxacin. The levofloxacin loaded PP meshes demonstrate excellent antimicrobial properties for 6 days and the drug release has lasted for at least 24 h. Moreover, a control PP mesh sample without plasma treatment was also prepared, after coating with PDA and loading levofloxacin. The antimicrobial property was sustained only for two days. The maximum inhibition zone of PDA coated meshes with and without plasma treatment was 12.5 and 9 mm, respectively. On all accounts, the modification strategy can facilely lead to long-term property of infection prevention.

Nanozymes in Nanofibrous Mats with Haloperoxidase-like Activity To Combat Biofouling

Electrospun polymer mats are widely used in tissue engineering, wearable electronics, and water purification. However, in many environments, the polymer nanofibers prepared by electrospinning suffer from biofouling during long-term usage, resulting in persistent infections and device damage. Herein, we describe the fabrication of polymer mats with CeO_{2- x} nanorods that can prevent biofouling in an aqueous environment. The embedded CeO_{2- x} nanorods are functional mimics of natural haloperoxidases that catalyze the oxidative bromination of Br^- and H₂O₂ to HOBr. The generated HOBr, a natural signaling molecule, disrupted the bacterial quorum sensing, a critical step in biofilm formation. The polymer fibers provide porous structures with high water wettability, and the embedded cerium oxide nanozymes act as a catalyst that can efficiently trigger oxidative bromination, as shown by a haloperoxidase assay. Additionally, the embedded nanozymes enhance the mechanical property of polymer mats, as shown by a single-fiber bending test using atomic force microscopy. We envision that the fabricated polymer mats with CeO_{2- x} nanorods may be used to provide mechanically robust coatings with antibiofouling properties.

Influence of polymer composition and drug loading procedure on dual drug release from PLGA:PEG electrospun fibers

Poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) has been widely investigated for fabricating electrospun fibers due to their biocompatibility, paired with the capacity for encapsulating different drugs. However, such scaffolds shrink and distort upon contact with biological media, which is undesired for local drug application. To address this issue, we fabricated composite fiber scaffolds with the combination of PLGA and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). Scaffold shrinkage could successfully be overcome, however, the release kinetics of the encapsulated drug was strongly dependent on the amount of PEG. The addition of 5% PEG resulted in slower drug release due to a significant increase in fiber diameters. In contrast, the drug release rate was accelerated for fibers containing 10% PEG due to the water-soluble nature of the polymer. Furthermore, co-delivery of two different drugs, the small molecule acyclovir and the model protein bovine serum albumin was realized by two different approaches, coaxial electrospinning and immobilization of the drugs on the surface of the fibers, and drug release was found to be strongly dependent on the loading procedure. Based on our findings, key factors for understanding and controlling physicochemical properties of PLGA/PEG composite fibers as well as tuning drug release could be identified, providing an essential basis for rational design of electrospun fiber-based drug carriers.

Application of electrospun fibers for female reproductive health

Here, we present the current challenges in women's reproductive health and the current state-of-the-art treatment and prevention options for STI prevention, contraception, and treatment of infections. We discuss how the versatile platform of electrospun fibers can be applied to each challenge, and postulate at how these technologies could be improved. The void of approved electrospun fiber-based products yields the potential to apply this useful technology to a number of medical applications, many of which are relevant to women's reproductive health. Given the ability to tune drug delivery characteristics and three-dimensional geometry, there are many opportunities to pursue new product designs and routes of administration for electrospun fibers. For each application, we provide an overview of the versatility of electrospun fibers as a novel dosage form and summarize their advantages in clinical applications. We also provide a perspective on why electrospun fibers are well-suited for a variety of applications within women's reproductive health and identify areas that could greatly benefit from innovations with electrospun fiber-based approaches.

Controlled Levofloxacin Release and Antibacterial Properties of β-Cyclodextrins-Grafted Polypropylene Mesh Devices for Hernia Repair

Mesh infection is a major complication of hernia repair. After knitted mesh implantation, bacteria can grow within textile structures causing infection. In this work, polypropylene (PP) mesh devices were two-step grafted with hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) and β⁻cyclodexrins (CD) and then loaded with suitable antimicrobial levofloxacin HCL for hernia mesh-infection prevention. First, oxygen plasma was able to create surface roughness, then HDI was successfully grafted onto PP fiber surfaces. Afterwards, CD was covalently grafted onto the HDI treated PP meshes, and levofloxacin HCL (LVFX) was loaded into the CD cavity of the modified meshes. The modified devices were evaluated for sustained antibiotic properties and drug-release profiles in a phosphate buffer, and sustained drug release was observed between interfaces of meshes and aqueous environment. The antibiotic-loaded PP mesh samples demonstrated sustained antibacterial properties for 7 and 10 days, respectively, against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The CD-captured levofloxacin HCL showed burst release after 6 h but later exhibited sustained release for the next 48 h. Among all samples, the modified mesh LVFX-6 was more stable and showed more sustained drug release and could be employed in future clinical applications.

Preparation and Characterization of Antibacterial Polypropylene Meshes with Covalently Incorporated β-Cyclodextrins and Captured Antimicrobial Agent for Hernia Repair

Polypropylene (PP) light weight meshes are commonly used as hernioplasty implants. Nevertheless, the growth of bacteria within textile knitted mesh intersections can occur after surgical mesh implantation, causing infections. Thus, bacterial reproduction has to be stopped in the very early stage of mesh implantation. Herein, novel antimicrobial PP meshes grafted with β-CD and complexes with triclosan were prepared for mesh infection prevention. Initially, PP mesh surfaces were functionalized with suitable cold oxygen plasma. Then, hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) was successfully grafted on the plasma-activated PP surfaces. Afterwards, β-CD was connected with the already HDI reacted PP meshes and triclosan, serving as a model antimicrobial agent, was loaded into the cyclodextrin (CD) cavity for desired antibacterial functions. The hydrophobic interior and hydrophilic exterior of β-CD are well suited to form complexes with hydrophobic host guest molecules. Thus, the prepared PP mesh samples, CD-TCL-2 and CD-TCL-6 demonstrated excellent antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli that were sustained up to 11 and 13 days, respectively. The surfaces of chemically modified PP meshes showed dramatically reduced water contact angles. Moreover, X-ray diffractometer (XRD), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and Thermogravimetric (TGA) evidenced that there was no significant effect of grafted hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) and CD on the structural and thermal properties of the PP meshes.

Ca-Doped mesoporous SiO2/dental resin composites with enhanced mechanical properties, bioactivity and antibacterial properties

MCS containing resin composites possess enhanced mechanical properties and antibacterial activity, and can smartly induce the deposition of apatite minerals.

Enhanced selective photocatalytic properties of a novel magnetic retrievable imprinted ZnFe2O4/PPy composite with specific recognition ability

The process of the selective photocatalytic degradation of different organic contaminants over imprinted ZnFe₂O₄/PPy composite.