Articles
Journal of Polymers and the Environment (15662543)
Neural tissue damage remains a significant clinical challenge due to the limited regenerative capacity of nervous tissues. Therefore, the development of biocompatible, conductive, and mechanically robust scaffolds is crucial to support neural regeneration. This study investigates the mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, degradation behavior, and cytotoxicity of electrospun scaffolds made from gelatin/poly (glycerol sebacate) (Gel/PGS) and their nanocomposite variants incorporating graphene (Gr) and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HA). The addition of graphene significantly enhanced the tensile strength and stiffness of the scaffolds. The Gel/PGS/1Gr/3HA scaffold exhibited the highest mechanical performance, with a tensile strength of 36.15 MPa and a tensile strain at break of 7.11%. Electrical impedance measurements revealed a notable increase in electrical conductivity with the incorporation of graphene, while the addition of hydroxyapatite at 3% and 6% by weight reduced electrical conductivity due to the insulating properties of HA. Degradation tests showed that scaffolds with graphene and HA exhibited slower degradation rates compared to Gel/PGS scaffolds, attributed to the reduced hydrophilicity of graphene and the crystalline structure of HA. The nanocomposite scaffolds demonstrated high biocompatibility, evidenced by the absence of cytotoxic effects and suitable adhesion of PC12 cells. Overall, Gel/PGS/1Gr/3HA electrospun nanocomposite scaffolds show great potential as functional platforms for neural tissue engineering. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2025.
Emergent Materials (2522574X)
The development of temporary biodegradable orthopedic implants has been a key focus in recent years to reduce healthcare costs, minimize the need for multiple surgical interventions, and improve patient satisfaction. In this study, biodegradable magnesium-tin (Mg-Sn) composites reinforced with biphasic calcium phosphate nanoparticles (nBCP) were synthesized and evaluated for advanced orthopedic implant applications. Initially, nBCP was synthesized from bovine tibia bone using a thermal process. Composite samples, including Mg-5wt%Sn, Mg-5wt%Sn-1.25wt%nBCP, and Mg-5wt%Sn-2.5wt%nBCP, were fabricated using the stir casting method, and some underwent homogenization heat treatment at 450 °C for 24 h, followed by hot rolling at 445 ± 10 °C. The microstructure, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility of these composites were comprehensively analyzed. Optical microscopy (OM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed significant grain refinement in the Mg-5Sn base alloy and an increase in grain boundaries after hot rolling and the addition of nBCP. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed the formation of a secondary Mg2Sn phase in the composites. Tensile tests showed that the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and yield strength of the rolled samples were approximately 1.7 times higher than those of the as-cast samples, although the elongation percentage was reduced by half. The highest UTS value, 138 MPa, was observed in the rolled Mg-5wt%Sn-2.5wt%nBCP sample. Potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed a reduction in corrosion resistance after hot rolling, attributed to increased dislocation density and internal strain energy; however, the rolled composite containing 2.5wt%nBCP exhibited superior corrosion resistance compared to other rolled samples. Cell toxicity assays (MTT) using MG-63 cells demonstrated enhanced biocompatibility in nBCP-containing samples over a 7-day period, with the rolled Mg-5wt%Sn-2.5wt%nBCP composite showing the highest cell survival rate. Overall, the findings suggest that the rolled Mg-5wt%Sn-2.5wt%nBCP composite is a promising candidate for the development of orthopedic implants. © Qatar University and Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.
Materials Today Communications (23524928)46
Chronic wounds caused by trauma, immune deficiencies, or metabolic disorders such as diabetes present a major healthcare challenge due to prolonged healing and infection risks. Conventional wound dressings primarily provide protection and bacterial control but offer limited support for the healing process. Hydrogels, known for their moisture retention and exudate absorption, have gained attention in wound care. However, many formulations lack bioactive agents that promote healing, prevent infections, or stimulate collagen production. This study introduces a novel hydrogel film composed of sodium alginate, gelatin, and royal jelly to enhance chronic wound management. Hydrogels were synthesized using different concentrations of these components and evaluated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, swelling capacity, degradation rate, and water vapor transmission. Results demonstrated that royal jelly significantly increased swelling capacity, controlled degradation, and optimized water vapor transmission, which are critical factors for wound healing. Mechanical testing revealed Young's modulus ranging from 5 to 12 MPa, indicating the hydrogel's suitability for wound applications. In vitro studies confirmed that royal jelly promoted fibroblast proliferation and enhanced cell migration, both essential for tissue regeneration. Furthermore, the hydrogel exhibited strong antibacterial activity and accelerated wound healing in animal models, achieving complete closure within 14 days. These findings indicate that sodium alginate–gelatin hydrogels enriched with royal jelly provide an effective combination of favorable mechanical properties and enhanced biological functions, making them a promising option for chronic wound treatment. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd
