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Hajieghrary F, Ghanbarzadeh B, Pezeshki A, Dadashi S, Falcone PM. Development of Hybrid Electrospun Nanofibers: Improving Effects of Cellulose Nanofibers (CNFs) on Electrospinnability of Gelatin. Foods 2024; 13:2114. [PMID: 38998620 PMCID: PMC11241272 DOI: 10.3390/foods13132114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were used to improve the electrospinnability of the gelatin protein in a water/ethanol/acetic acid (3:2:3, v/v) solution. The effects of different concentrations of CNFs (0.5-4%) on the important physical properties of the gelatin solution (15%), including rheology, conductivity, and surface tension, were investigated. The apparent viscosity and shear-thinning behavior were increased by increasing the CNF concentration from 0 to 4% at a low shear rate (<10 s-1). CNFs also increased the electrical conductivity and surface tension of the gelatin solution. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed uniformly ordered structures with good continuity without fracture or bead formation in all hybrid nanofibers. They also showed that the average diameters of fibers decreased from 216 nm in the pure gelatin nanofibers to 175.39 nm in the hybrid gelatin/CNF (4%) ones. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed that CNFs increased Tg, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the electrospinning process caused the formation of more amorphous structures in the gelatin/CNF hybrid nanofibers. The tensile test indicated that by adding 2% CNFs, the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and strain at break (SB) of nanofiber mats increased from 4.26 to 10.5 MPa and 3.3% to 6.25%, respectively. The current study indicated that incorporating CNFs at the optimal concentration into a gelatin solution can improve the resulting hybrid nanofibers' morphology, average diameter, and mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Hajieghrary
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran (A.P.); (S.D.)
| | - Babak Ghanbarzadeh
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran (A.P.); (S.D.)
| | - Akram Pezeshki
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran (A.P.); (S.D.)
| | - Saeed Dadashi
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran (A.P.); (S.D.)
| | - Pasquale M. Falcone
- Department of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences, University Polytechnical of Marche, Brecce Bianche 10, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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2
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Doodmani SM, Bagheri A, Natouri O, Nobakht A, Saghebasl S. Electrospinning-netting of spider-inspired polycaprolactone/collagen nanofiber-nets incorporated with Propolis extract for enhanced wound healing applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131452. [PMID: 38593895 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Nanofibers hold significant promise for wound healing applications, but their potential is limited by their large diameter. To overcome this limitation, the development of nanofibrous systems with refined nanonets (approximately 20 nm in diameter) represents a notable improvement. In this study, a composite of polycaprolactone/collagen (PCLC) nano-fiber/nets (NFNs) was fabricated using benign solvents (acetic acid and formic acid) via the electro-spinning/netting (ESN) technique, harnessing the regenerative potential of collagen as a biological macromolecule. Additionally, to enhance the natural attributes of the NFNs structure, Propolis extract, renowned for its wound healing properties, was incorporated. Five ESN solutions were prepared: PCL, PCLC, PCLC/Pro 5 %, PCLC/Pro 10 %, and PCLC/Pro 15 %. NaCl salt was introduced into all ESN solutions to improve nanonets formation. FE-SEM imaging demonstrated successful nano-net formation in all ESN solutions except for the PCL formulation. The fabricated scaffolds exhibited spider-like nanonets with the addition of collagen and further enhanced nano-net formation with Propolis incorporation. Trunk nanofibers showed filamentous structures without any beads, with an average diameter of 164-728 nm, while the diameter of branched fibers (nanonets) was approximately 20 nm. WVTR values of the NFNs were comparable to commercial dressings such as Tegaderm. The results also demonstrated the potent cytoprotective effects of Propolis-loaded NFNs in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the viability of HFF-2 cells after 72 h of culture on PCLC NFNs significantly increased compared to PCL nanofibers. The highest cell viability was observed in PCLC/Pro 15 % nanofibers after 24, 48, and 72 h of cell culture, indicating the proliferative effect of Propolis extract in nanoformulated form. Additionally, the scaffolds exhibited a hemocompatibility of <3 %, further highlighting their potential in wound healing therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Doodmani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Specialized Veterinary Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Bagheri
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ozra Natouri
- Department of Organic and Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center of Biosciences & Biotechnology (RCBB), University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abbas Nobakht
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center of Biosciences & Biotechnology (RCBB), University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Solmaz Saghebasl
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 51548/53431, Iran.
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Basak S, Tiwari A, Sharma D, Packirisamy G. Unveiling Mechanobiology: A Compact Device for Uniaxial Mechanical Stimulation on Nanofiber Substrates and Its Impact on Cellular Behavior and Nanoparticle Distribution. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:2283-2298. [PMID: 38467474 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c01285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Biotechnology and its allied sectors, such as tissue culture, regenerative medicine, and personalized medicine, primarily rely upon extensive studies on cellular behavior and their molecular pathways for generating essential knowledge and innovative strategies for human survival. Most such studies are performed on flat, adherent, plastic-based surfaces and use nanofiber and hydrogel-like soft matrices from the past few decades. However, such static culture conditions cannot mimic the immediate cellular microenvironment, where they perceive or generate a myriad of different mechanical forces that substantially affect their downstream molecular pathways. Including such mechanical forces, still limited to specialized laboratories, using a few commercially available or noncommercial technologies are gathering increasing attention worldwide. However, large-scale consideration and adaptation by developing nations have yet to be achieved due to the lack of a cost-effective, reliable, and accessible solution. Moreover, investigations on cellular response upon uniaxial mechanical stretch cycles under more in vivo mimetic conditions are yet to be studied comprehensively. In order to tackle these obstacles, we have prepared a compact, 3D-printed device using a microcontroller, batteries, sensors, and a stepper motor assembly that operates wirelessly and provides cyclic mechanical attrition to any thin substrate. We have fabricated water-stable and stretchable nanofiber substrates with different fiber orientations by using the electrospinning technique to investigate the impact of mechanical stretch cycles on the morphology and orientation of C2C12 myoblast-like cells. Additionally, we have examined the uptake and distribution properties of BSA-epirubicin nanoparticles within cells under mechanical stimulation, which could act as fluorescently active drug-delivery agents for future therapeutic applications. Consequently, our research offers a comprehensive analysis of cellular behavior when cells are subjected to uniaxial stretching on various nanofiber mat architectures. Furthermore, we present a cost-effective alternative solution that addresses the long-standing requirement for a compact, user-friendly, and tunable device, enabling more insightful outcomes in mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumyadeep Basak
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Ayush Tiwari
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Deepanshu Sharma
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Gopinath Packirisamy
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 247667, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 247667, India
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Koohzad F, Asoodeh A. Development of a highly porous bioscaffold by the combination of bubble entrapping and freezing-thawing techniques to fabricate hyaluronic acid/gelatin tri-layer wound dressing. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129206. [PMID: 38246452 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The electrospun nanofibers and porous scaffolds hold great promise in regenerative medicine. A novel nanofiber-hydrogel‑silicone tri-layer wound dressing has been designed and fabricated to address the limitations of each platform. The bottom nanofiber layer with a 110 mm diameter meets the wound surface and regulates cell attachment and migration. The middle hydrogel layer was fabricated through the optimization of chemical crosslink formation and freezing-thawing cycles (physical crosslink). The fabricated hydrogel with interconnected porous structure has optimized properties (gel fraction (89.45 %) and porosity (80 %)) for wound dressing application. The silicone layer on the outer surface was designed to fix the wound dressing on the skin and prevent the penetration of pathogens. The scanning electron microscope micrograph showed structural integrity in the tri-layer scaffold. In vivo data showed that the tri-layer scaffold accelerates wound healing in the mice model and angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane model. Therefore, the designed scaffold inspired by the skin's structure can be used as a wound dressing to treat wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Koohzad
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Asoodeh
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran.
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Zheng Q, Xi Y, Weng Y. Functional electrospun nanofibers: fabrication, properties, and applications in wound-healing process. RSC Adv 2024; 14:3359-3378. [PMID: 38259986 PMCID: PMC10801448 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra07075a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrostatic spinning as a technique for producing nanoscale fibers has recently attracted increasing attention due to its simplicity, versatility, and loadability. Nanofibers prepared by electrostatic spinning have been widely studied, especially in biomedical applications, because of their high specific surface area, high porosity, easy size control, and easy surface functionalization. Wound healing is a highly complex and dynamic process that is a crucial step in the body's healing process to recover from tissue injury or other forms of damage. Single-component nanofibers are more or less limited in terms of structural properties and do not fully satisfy various needs of the materials. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the literature on the use of electrostatically spun nanofibers to promote wound healing, to overview the infinite possibilities for researchers to tap into their biomedical applications through functional composite modification of nanofibers for advanced and multifunctional materials, and to propose directions and perspectives for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianlan Zheng
- College of Light Industry Science and Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University Beijing 100048 China
| | - Yuewei Xi
- College of Light Industry Science and Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University Beijing 100048 China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, Beijing Technology and Business University Beijing 100048 China
| | - Yunxuan Weng
- College of Light Industry Science and Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University Beijing 100048 China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, Beijing Technology and Business University Beijing 100048 China
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Hashemi SS, Mohammadi AA, Kian M, Rafati A, Ghaedi M, Ghafari B. Fabrication and evaluation of the regenerative effect of a polycaprolactone/chitosan nanofibrous scaffold containing bentonite nanoparticles in a rat model of deep second-degree burn injury. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2024; 27:223-232. [PMID: 38234665 PMCID: PMC10790295 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.69930.15210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Objectives In the present study, we evaluated the effect of a nanofibrous scaffold including polycaprolactone (PCL), chitosan (CHT), and bentonite nanoparticles (Ben-NPS) on wound healing in order to introduce a novel dressing for burn wounds. Materials and Methods PCL, PCL/CHT, and PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated by the electrospinning technique. Their structural and physiochemical characteristics were investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile strength, water contact angle, as well as, swelling and degradation profiles test. The disc diffusion assay was carried out to investigate the antibacterial potential of the scaffolds. In addition, the cell viability and proliferation ability of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) on the scaffolds were assessed using MTT assay as well as SEM imaging. The wound-healing property of the nanofibrous scaffolds was evaluated by histopathological investigations during 3,7, and 14 days in a rat model of burn wounds. Results SEM showed that all scaffolds had three-dimensional, beadles-integrated structures. Adding Ben-NPS into the PCL/CHT polymeric composite significantly enhanced the mechanical, swelling, and antibacterial properties. HDFs had the most cell viability and proliferation values on the PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS scaffold. Histopathological evaluation in the rat model revealed that dressing animal wounds with the PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS scaffold promotes wound healing. Conclusion The PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS scaffold has promising regenerative properties for accelerating skin wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh-Sara Hashemi
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Mohammadi
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Mehdi Kian
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Alireza Rafati
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Sarvestan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sarvestan, Fars, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Ghaedi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Fars, Iran
| | - Behzad Ghafari
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
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7
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Zhang S, Yu F, Chen J, Yan D, Gong D, Chen L, Chen J, Yao Q. A thin film comprising silk peptide and cellulose nanofibrils implanting on the electrospun poly(lactic acid) fibrous scaffolds for biomedical reconstruction. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 251:126209. [PMID: 37567522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Conjunctival reconstruction using biocompatible polymers constitutes an effective treatment for conjunctival scarring and associated visual impairment. In this work, a thin film comprising silk peptide (SP), cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) and Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) that implanted on the poly(lactic acid) (PLA) electrospun fibrous membranes (EFMs) was designed for biomedical reconstruction. SP and CNF as thin films can improve the surface hydrophilicity of the as-prepared scaffolds, which synergistically enhanced the biocompatibility. In in vivo experiments, the developed PLA EFMs modified with 3 wt% SP/CNF/AgNPs could be easily manipulated and transplanted onto conjunctival defects in rabbits, consequently accelerating the structural and functional restoration of the ocular surface in 12 days. Additionally, incorporation of 0.30 mg/g AgNPs efficiently reduced the topical application of antibiotics without causing infections. Thus, these resultant scaffolds could not only serve as useful alternatives for conjunctival engineering, but also prevent infections effectively with a very low content of AgNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Dan Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Danni Gong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Liangbo Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Junzhao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China.
| | - Qinke Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai 200011, China.
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Nguyen TD, Roh S, Nguyen MTN, Lee JS. Structural Control of Nanofibers According to Electrospinning Process Conditions and Their Applications. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:2022. [PMID: 38004879 PMCID: PMC10673317 DOI: 10.3390/mi14112022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Nanofibers have gained much attention because of the large surface area they can provide. Thus, many fabrication methods that produce nanofiber materials have been proposed. Electrospinning is a spinning technique that can use an electric field to continuously and uniformly generate polymer and composite nanofibers. The structure of the electrospinning system can be modified, thus making changes to the structure, and also the alignment of nanofibers. Moreover, the nanofibers can also be treated, modifying the nanofiber structure. This paper thoroughly reviews the efforts to change the configuration of the electrospinning system and the effects of these configurations on the nanofibers. Excellent works in different fields of application that use electrospun nanofibers are also introduced. The studied materials functioned effectively in their application, thereby proving the potential for the future development of electrospinning nanofiber materials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jun Seop Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si 13120, Gyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea; (T.D.N.); (S.R.); (M.T.N.N.)
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9
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Wu KY, Brister D, Bélanger P, Tran SD. Exploring the Potential of Nanoporous Materials for Advancing Ophthalmic Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15599. [PMID: 37958583 PMCID: PMC10650608 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The landscape of ophthalmology is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements and innovations in materials science. One of the advancements in this evolution is the application of nanoporous materials, endowed with unique physicochemical properties ideal for a variety of ophthalmological applications. Characterized by their high surface area, tunable porosity, and functional versatility, these materials have the potential to improve drug delivery systems and ocular devices. This review, anchored by a comprehensive literature focusing on studies published within the last five years, examines the applications of nanoporous materials in ocular drug delivery systems (DDS), contact lenses, and intraocular lenses. By consolidating the most current research, this review aims to serve as a resource for clinicians, researchers, and material scientists engaged in the rapidly evolving field of ophthalmology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Y. Wu
- Department of Surgery—Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Danielle Brister
- College of Public Health, National Taiwan University (NTU), Taipei 106319, Taiwan
| | - Paul Bélanger
- Department of Surgery—Division of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 2E8, Canada; (K.Y.W.)
| | - Simon D. Tran
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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Wortmann M, Westphal M, Kaltschmidt B, Klöcker M, Layland AS, Brockhagen B, Hütten A, Frese N, Ehrmann A. Nanofibers are a matter of perspective: effects of methodology and subjectivity on diameter measurements. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:5900-5906. [PMID: 37881710 PMCID: PMC10597546 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00528c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Nanofibers are currently among the most researched nanomaterials in materials science. Various high-resolution microscopy techniques are used for morphological investigations, with the diameter as primary characteristic. Since methodological factors influencing the diameter distribution are usually ignored, numerical values can hardly be compared across different or even within single studies. Here, we investigate influencing factors such as microscopy technique, degree of magnification, eventual coatings, and the analysts' bias in the image selection and evaluation. We imaged a single nanofiber sample using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), helium ion microscopy (HIM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These techniques yield significant methodological variations between the diameter distributions. We further observed a strong influence of analysts' subjectivity, with a consistent average deviation between 4 different analysts of up to 31%. The average deviation between micrographs within each category was 14%, revealing a considerable influence of micrograph selection and strong potential for cherry picking. The mean values were mostly comparable with the results using automated image analysis software, which was more reproducible, much faster, and more accurate for images with lower magnification. The results demonstrate that one of the most frequently measured characteristics of nanofibers is subject to strong systematic fluctuations that are rarely if ever addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wortmann
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Michael Westphal
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Bernhard Kaltschmidt
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Michaela Klöcker
- Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Interaktion 1 33619 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Ashley S Layland
- neotem Bioanalytics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Bennet Brockhagen
- Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Interaktion 1 33619 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Andreas Hütten
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Natalie Frese
- University of Hawaii, Department of Physics and Astronomy Watanabe Hall, 2505 Correa Road Honolulu HI 96822 USA
| | - Andrea Ehrmann
- Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Interaktion 1 33619 Bielefeld Germany
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11
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Mamun A, Kiari M, Sabantina L. A Recent Review of Electrospun Porous Carbon Nanofiber Mats for Energy Storage and Generation Applications. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:830. [PMID: 37888002 PMCID: PMC10608773 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13100830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Electrospun porous carbon nanofiber mats have excellent properties, such as a large surface area, tunable porosity, and excellent electrical conductivity, and have attracted great attention in energy storage and power generation applications. Moreover, due to their exceptional properties, they can be used in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), membrane electrodes for fuel cells, catalytic applications such as oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs), hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs), and oxygen evolution reactions (OERs), and sensing applications such as biosensors, electrochemical sensors, and chemical sensors, providing a comprehensive insight into energy storage development and applications. This study focuses on the role of electrospun porous carbon nanofiber mats in improving energy storage and generation and contributes to a better understanding of the fabrication process of electrospun porous carbon nanofiber mats. In addition, a comprehensive review of various alternative preparation methods covering a wide range from natural polymers to synthetic carbon-rich materials is provided, along with insights into the current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Al Mamun
- Junior Research Group “Nanomaterials”, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Mohamed Kiari
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Materials, University of Alicante, 03080 Alicante, Spain
| | - Lilia Sabantina
- Faculty of Apparel Engineering and Textile Processing, Berlin University of Applied Sciences—HTW Berlin, Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin, 12459 Berlin, Germany
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12
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Ruiz Rocha JE, Moreno Tovar KR, Navarro Mendoza R, Gutiérrez Granados S, Cavaliere S, Giaume D, Barboux P, Jaime Ferrer JS. Critical Electrospinning Parameters for Synthesis Control of Stabilized Polyacrylonitrile Nanofibers. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2648. [PMID: 37836289 PMCID: PMC10574287 DOI: 10.3390/nano13192648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers are widely used as precursors in the manufacture of high-conducting and mechanically resistant carbon fibers. The modulation of such fibers is carried out through electrospinning. In this work, we show the production and control of the morphology of nanometric-range PAN fibers for their potential use as precursors for high-electrical-conductivity carbon fibers. PAN samples dissolved in dimethylformamide (DMF) were prepared at 6, 10, and 12% w/w, at 15 and 25 kV. The impact of the rotation of the collector drum at 100, 300, and 500 RPM was also studied. It was found that the percentage of PAN in the solution proportionally affects the diameter of the fibers and that the preparation potential affects the morphology. The rotation speed, when increased, decreases the diameter, and it has a negative impact on the morphology. Fibers prepared with 6% w/w at 15 kV and 500 RPM show 90 nm diameters, the smallest diameter of all the samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Emmanuel Ruiz Rocha
- Departamento de Química, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Pueblito de Rocha s/n, Guanajuato 36040, Mexico; (J.E.R.R.); (R.N.M.)
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005 Paris, France; (D.G.); (P.B.)
| | - Karla Rebeca Moreno Tovar
- Departamento de Química, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Pueblito de Rocha s/n, Guanajuato 36040, Mexico; (J.E.R.R.); (R.N.M.)
| | - Ricardo Navarro Mendoza
- Departamento de Química, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Pueblito de Rocha s/n, Guanajuato 36040, Mexico; (J.E.R.R.); (R.N.M.)
| | - Silvia Gutiérrez Granados
- Departamento de Química, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Pueblito de Rocha s/n, Guanajuato 36040, Mexico; (J.E.R.R.); (R.N.M.)
| | - Sara Cavaliere
- ICGM, University Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, CEDEX 5, 34095 Montpellier, France
| | - Domitille Giaume
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005 Paris, France; (D.G.); (P.B.)
| | - Philippe Barboux
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005 Paris, France; (D.G.); (P.B.)
| | - Jesús Salvador Jaime Ferrer
- CIATEC A.C., Centro de Innovación Aplicada en Tecnología Competitiva, Omega 201, Industrial Delta, GTO, León 37545, Mexico
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Morina E, Dotter M, Döpke C, Kola I, Spahiu T, Ehrmann A. Homogeneity of Needleless Electrospun Nanofiber Mats. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2507. [PMID: 37764536 PMCID: PMC10535507 DOI: 10.3390/nano13182507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Nanofiber mats can be electrospun by different techniques, usually subdivided into needle-based and needleless. The latter allow for producing large-area nanofiber mats, e.g., with a width of 50 cm and lengths of several meters, if electrospinning proceeds for several hours, depending on the required thickness. Even spinning smaller samples, however, raises the question of homogeneity, especially if defined mechanical properties or a defined thickness is required, e.g., for filtration purposes. Very often, only the inner parts of such electrospun nanofiber mats are used to avoid too high variation of the nanofiber mat thickness. For this study, we used wire-based electrospinning to prepare nanofiber mats with slightly varying spinning parameters. We report investigations of the thickness and mass per unit area, measured on different positions of needleless electrospun nanofiber mats. Martindale abrasion tests on different positions are added as a measure of the mechanical properties. All nanofiber mats show unexpectedly strong variations of thickness, mass per unit area, and porosity, as calculated from the apparent density of the membranes. The thickness especially varied by nearly one order of magnitude within one sample, while the apparent density, as the most uniform parameter, still showed variations by more than a factor of two within one sample. This shows that even for apparently highly homogeneous areas of such nanofiber mats, variations cannot be neglected for all potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edona Morina
- Department of Textile and Fashion, Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1019 Tirana, Albania
| | - Marius Dotter
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christoph Döpke
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Ilda Kola
- Department of Textile and Fashion, Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1019 Tirana, Albania
| | - Tatjana Spahiu
- Department of Textile and Fashion, Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1019 Tirana, Albania
| | - Andrea Ehrmann
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany
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