Understanding Thermodynamics and Kinetics of PEDOT:PSS Using ATR-FTIR and Density Functional Theory.

This work demonstrates poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and divinyl sulfone (DVS) cross-linking to form insoluble and porous PEDOT:PSS-DVS hydrogels. We propose a reaction mechanism and demonstrate the kinetics of a PEDOT:PSS modification that prevents PEDOT:PSS dispersibility. PSS and DVS undergo a second-order reaction between the DVS secondary carbocations and PSS oxygen anion to form a PSS-DVS network.

Engineering injectable, biocompatible, and highly elastic bioadhesive cryogels.

The extracellular matrix (ECM), an integral component of all organs, is inherently tissue adhesive and plays a pivotal role in tissue regeneration and remodeling. However, man-made three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials that are designed to mimic ECMs do not intrinsically adhere to moisture-rich environments and often lack an open macroporous architecture required for facilitating cellularization and integration with the host tissue post-implantation. Furthermore, most of these constructs usually entail invasive surgeries and potentially a risk of infection.

A review of covetics - current understanding and future perspectives.

Covetics are a novel class of metal-carbon composites traditionally fabricated in an induction furnace with high power electrical current in the liquid metal-carbon mixture. The electrical current facilitates chemical conversion of carbon feedstock into graphene-metal crystalline structures. We explore the synthesis mechanism and hypothesize that carbon-metal species, rather than purely-carbon ions, are the reactant species driving the covetic reaction.

Needle-injectable microcomposite cryogel scaffolds with antimicrobial properties.

Porous three-dimensional hydrogel scaffolds have an exquisite ability to promote tissue repair. However, because of their high water content and invasive nature during surgical implantation, hydrogels are at an increased risk of bacterial infection. Recently, we have developed elastic biomimetic cryogels, an advanced type of polymeric hydrogel, that are syringe-deliverable through hypodermic needles.

Effectiveness of Common Fabrics to Block Aqueous Aerosols of Virus-like Nanoparticles.

Layered systems of commonly available fabric materials can be used by the public and healthcare providers in face masks to reduce the risk of inhaling viruses with protection that is about equivalent to or better than the filtration and adsorption offered by 5-layer N95 respirators. Over 70 different common fabric combinations and masks were evaluated under steady-state, forced convection air flux with pulsed aerosols that simulate forceful respiration. The aerosols contain fluorescent virus-like nanoparticles to track transmission through materials that greatly assist the accuracy of detection, thus avoiding artifacts including pore flooding and the loss of aerosol due to evaporation and droplet breakup.

Autoclavable and Injectable Cryogels for Biomedical Applications.

Prior to any clinical application, terminal sterilization of biomaterials is a critical process imposed by the Food and Drug Administration. Of all the methods available for sterilization, high-pressure steam sterilization such as autoclaving is the most widely used. While autoclave sterilization minimizes pathogen contamination, it can dramatically impact both structural and biological properties of biomaterials.

Strategies to prevent dopamine oxidation and related cytotoxicity using various antioxidants and nitrogenation.

Dopamine (DA) plays several important roles in the brain and body and has recently been used as a bioadhesive precursor for medical applications. However, DA oxidizes immediately when exposed to oxygen and rapidly polymerizes into polydopamine (PDA), leading to oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and loss of DA functionalities. As a result, preventing rapid oxidation of DA is of paramount importance but still remains a major challenge.

Sutureless repair of corneal injuries using naturally derived bioadhesive hydrogels.

Corneal injuries are common causes of visual impairment worldwide. Accordingly, there is an unmet need for transparent biomaterials that have high adhesion, cohesion, and regenerative properties. Herein, we engineer a highly biocompatible and transparent bioadhesive for corneal reconstruction using a visible light cross-linkable, naturally derived polymer, GelCORE (gel for corneal regeneration).

Engineering a sprayable and elastic hydrogel adhesive with antimicrobial properties for wound healing.

Hydrogel-based bioadhesives have emerged as alternatives for sutureless wound closure, since they can mimic the composition and physicochemical properties of the extracellular matrix. However, they are often associated with poor mechanical properties, low adhesion to native tissues, and lack of antimicrobial properties. Herein, a new sprayable, elastic, and biocompatible composite hydrogel, with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, for the treatment of chronic wounds is reported.