Philip Boughton - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Philip Boughton

Open Ceramics, 2021

Abstract Piezoelectric materials are intensively investigated for usage in biomedical application... more Abstract Piezoelectric materials are intensively investigated for usage in biomedical applications ranging from in vivo sensors and energy harvesters to implants for bone and neural cell stimulation. Besides the high requirements for reliability and low cytotoxicity, implantable materials must be sterilizable without losing their functionality. In this study, we investigate the impact of low temperature plasma sterilization and the associated cleaning routines on the piezoelectric properties of PZT, BCZT and KNN bulk ceramics. The stability of the piezoelectric response strongly depends on the material system, with BCZT ceramics showing the strongest decline in properties. Several factors were identified to contribute to this reduction of the piezoelectric coefficient, the most important being mechanical stress due to sample handling as well as chemical reactions during cleaning, disinfection and sterilization. The study highlights the importance of evaluating the impact of all influencing factors along the pre-implantation handling chain in the material selection process.

Journal of the mechanical behavior of biomedical materials, 2018

We have an interest in the cellular response to mechanical stimuli, and here describe an in-vitro... more We have an interest in the cellular response to mechanical stimuli, and here describe an in-vitro method to examine the response of cells cultured in a three-dimensional matrix to mechanical compressive and tensile stress. Synthetic aliphatic polyester scaffolds coated with 45S5 bioactive glass were seeded with human dental follicular cells (HDFC), and attached to well inserts and magnetic endplates in six well palates. Scaffolds were subjected to either cyclic 10% tensile deformation, or 8% compression, at 1 Hz and 2 Hz respectively for 6, 24 or 48 h, by uniaxial motion of magnetically-coupled endplates. It was possible to isolate high quality mRNA from cells in these scaffolds, as demonstrated by high RNA integrity numbers scores, and ability to perform meaningful cRNA microarray analysis, in which 669 and 727 genes were consistently upregulated, and 662 and 518 genes down regulated at all times studied under tensile and compressive loading conditions respectively. MetaCore analys...

Journal of diabetes research, 2015

Aims/Hypothesis. Topical application of CTGF/CCN2 to rodent diabetic and control wounds was exami... more Aims/Hypothesis. Topical application of CTGF/CCN2 to rodent diabetic and control wounds was examined. In parallel research, correlation of CTGF wound fluid levels with healing rate in human diabetic foot ulcers was undertaken. Methods. Full thickness cutaneous wounds in diabetic and nondiabetic control rats were treated topically with 1 μg rhCTGF or vehicle alone, on 2 consecutive days. Wound healing rate was observed on day 14 and wound sites were examined for breaking strength and granulation tissue. In the human study across 32 subjects, serial CTGF regulation was analyzed longitudinally in postdebridement diabetic wound fluid. Results. CTGF treated diabetic wounds had an accelerated closure rate compared with vehicle treated diabetic wounds. Healed skin withstood more strain before breaking in CTGF treated rat wounds. Granulation tissue from CTGF treatment in diabetic wounds showed collagen IV accumulation compared with nondiabetic animals. Wound α-smooth muscle actin was increa...

Diabetologia, 2009

Aims/hypothesis Chronic non-healing wounds are a common complication of diabetes. Prolonged infla... more Aims/hypothesis Chronic non-healing wounds are a common complication of diabetes. Prolonged inflammation and decreased matrix accumulation may contribute. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is induced during normal wound healing, but its regulation in diabetic wounds is unknown. We developed a primate model for the study of in vivo wound healing in baboons with long diabetes duration. Methods Drum implants were placed subcutaneously into thighs of diabetic and non-diabetic control baboons. After 2 and 4 weeks the skin incision sites were removed for measurement of breaking strength and epithelial thickness. Drum implants were removed for analysis of granulation tissue and inflammatory cells, CTGF and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP-1). Degradation of added CTGF by wound fluid was also examined. Results Healed incision site skin was stiffer (less elastic) in diabetic baboons and epithelial remodelling was slower compared with controls. Granulation tissue from diabetic baboons was reduced at 2 and 4 weeks, with increased vessel lumen areas at 4 weeks. Macrophages were reduced while neutrophils persisted in diabetic tissue. In diabetic wound tissue at 4 weeks there was less CTGF induced, as shown by immunohistochemistry, compared with controls. In contrast, Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article

Acta Biomaterialia, 2008

In this study, mechanical properties of bioactive glass (BAG) synthetic bone graft substitute was... more In this study, mechanical properties of bioactive glass (BAG) synthetic bone graft substitute was improved by containing ZrO2 (ZrO2-BAG), while maintaining advantageous biological properties of BAG such as osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties. The ZrO2-BAG was produced by adding ZrO2 in the following proportions to replace Na2O in 45S5 BAG: 1% (Zr1-BAG), 3% (Zr3-BAG), 6% (Zr6-BAG) and 12% (Zr12-BAG). Properties including XRD, XPS, SEM, DSC, fracture toughness and Vickers microhardness were evaluated. To assess the biological properties, Ca/P apatite formation, ion release, degradation rate, cell proliferation, ALP activity (ALP) and alizarin red S staining assay (ARS) were evaluated. Also, expression of osteogenic differentiation markers, Osteopontin (OPN), confirmed by immunofluorescence staining. Finally, an in vivo test was carried out to by implanting ZrO2-BAG into the subcutaneous tissue of rats. The results of each test were statistically analysed with one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc statistical test. Amorphous ZrO2-BAG was successfully produced with increased mechanical properties as the ZrO2 content was increased. Additionally, ZrO2-BAG exhibited a slower ion release and degradation rate compare to BAG without ZrO2. Bioactivity of ZrO2-BAG was confirmed with apatite layer formed on the surface, significantly higher proliferation rate and significantly enhanced ALP and the degree of ARS of the cells compare to respective controls. The tissue reactions observed in the in vivo study showed neo-formed vessels after implantation of ZrO2-BAG.

SSRN Electronic Journal, 2022

Polymers

The selection of biomaterials as biomedical implants is a significant challenge. Ultra-high molec... more The selection of biomaterials as biomedical implants is a significant challenge. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and composites of such kind have been extensively used in medical implants, notably in the bearings of the hip, knee, and other joint prostheses, owing to its biocompatibility and high wear resistance. For the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) graft, synthetic UHMWPE is an ideal candidate due to its biocompatibility and extremely high tensile strength. However, significant problems are observed in UHMWPE based implants, such as wear debris and oxidative degradation. To resolve the issue of wear and to enhance the life of UHMWPE as an implant, in recent years, this field has witnessed numerous innovative methodologies such as biofunctionalization or high temperature melting of UHMWPE to enhance its toughness and strength. The surface functionalization/modification/treatment of UHMWPE is very challenging as it requires optimizing many variables, such as sur...

This industry based study involved the characterisation of novel waterborne coatings alongside th... more This industry based study involved the characterisation of novel waterborne coatings alongside their solvent-borne alternatives using qualitative and semi-qualitative techniques. Amongst the methods used were scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), Australian paint standard tests, and tensile testing according to linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) theory. Although the first waterborne alkyd emulsion type coating tested was shown to be inferior in most aspects, the second waterborne acrylic copolymer coating was generally found to be superior to the solvent-borne counterparts. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E204495.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Discectomy is a common procedure for treating sciatica. However, both the ope... more BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Discectomy is a common procedure for treating sciatica. However, both the operation and preceding herniated disc alter the biomechanical properties of the spinal segment. The disc mechanics are also altered in patients with chronic contained herniation. The biomechanical properties of the disc can potentially be restored with an elastomeric nucleus replacement implanted via minimally invasive surgery. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the compressive characteristics of the intervertebral disc after a nucleotomy can be restored with an elastomeric nucleus replacement. STUDY DESIGN: A finite element model of the L4–L5 intervertebral disc was created to investigate the effect of the implantation of an elastomeric nucleus replacement on the biomechanical properties of the disc under axial loading. METHOD: A L4–L5 physiologic intervertebral disc model was constructed and then modified to contain a range by volume of nucleotomies and nucleus r...

Journal of The Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, 2017

Characterisation and Design of Tissue Scaffolds, 2016

Tissue engineering scaffolds are biomimetic structures with carefully controlled chemical and phy... more Tissue engineering scaffolds are biomimetic structures with carefully controlled chemical and physical properties. Scaffolds are implanted medical devices and as such are required to meet stringent sterility regulations to ensure patient safety. Common sterilization methods involve harsh conditions that are required to inactivate tough microscopic pathogens. Unfortunately, these conditions will commonly alter the susceptible scaffold biomaterials being sterilized, causing a multitude of chemical, morphological, and mechanical changes that ultimately affect the function of the tissue-engineering device. Because of this phenomenon, tissue engineers need to consider the terminal sterilization method in the initial design process of tissue scaffolds. Recently, tissue engineers have been realizing the elegant solutions in which sterilization methods can be applied to simultaneously provide favorable changes to scaffolds. Scaffolds designed in this way may overcome the high cost shortfalls of current tissue scaffolds.

Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2020

In the original article, we neglected to include that one of the authors, AC, has filed a patent ... more In the original article, we neglected to include that one of the authors, AC, has filed a patent for technology in this general area and that a company HeadsafeIP provided indirect funding to DF, DP, and JH. The authors apologize for this error and state that this does not change the scientific conclusions of the article in any way. The original article has been updated.

ANZ Journal of Surgery, 2020

To clinically evaluate 3D print‐formed implant process, using cranioplasty as a proof of concept,... more To clinically evaluate 3D print‐formed implant process, using cranioplasty as a proof of concept, to examine its effectiveness and utility as a method of intraoperative implant fabrication.

ObjectiveThe structural and functional complexity of the respiratory system present significant c... more ObjectiveThe structural and functional complexity of the respiratory system present significant challenges to capturing conditions vital for maintaining phenotypic cellular functions in vitro. Here we report a unique tissue engineering system that enables respiratory constructs to be cultured under physiological loading at an air-liquid interface (ALI).MethodsThe system consists of a porous poly-e-caprolactone scaffold mounted in a well insert, which articulates via magnetic coupling with a linear actuator device to strain attached scaffolds through a sterile barrier. For proof of concept, NCI-H460 human carcinoma cells were seeded on scaffold inserts which were subjected to 5-15% cyclic tensile strain at 0.2Hz within a six well plate. The dynamic constructs were cultured at an ALI in a standard incubator for up to 10 days along with unstimulated (static) ALI and static submerged control groups.ResultsHigh (near-100%) cell seeding efficiency was achieved within the scaffold-strain d...

Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2020

Materials Science Forum, 2017

This paper will report the fabrication process and microstructure analysis of fibrous composite i... more This paper will report the fabrication process and microstructure analysis of fibrous composite incorporating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabric, electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL), and bioglass particles. Briefly, electrospinning was performed to form PCL fibre lamination in the surface of UHMWPE fabric. This UHMWPE/PCL material was then bioglass-coated. Sequentially, microstructure of the UHMWPE fabric, UHMWPE/PCL, and UHMWPE/PCL/bioglass was imaged and analysed. The composite showed aligned ultrafine PCL fibres and distribution of bioglass particles in the layer of electrospun PCL. The results of this study provide groundwork for more advanced investigation, as well as development of implant prototype.

Journal of Anesthesia and Surgery, 2016

Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is more common nowadays and it can lead to cartilage degenerat... more Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is more common nowadays and it can lead to cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis [1]. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is frequent [2] and one of the challenging work in tissue engineering [3]. Anterior cruciate ligament is important for maintenance of knee movement [4]. ACL do not heal itself because of its intrinsically poor healing potential and surgical mediation is usually required [5,6]. Allograft and autograft were used for ACL reconstruction [7,8]. Due to several drawbacks of allograft and autograft synthetic grafts are the main option for ACL reconstruction [9]. Ligaments are made of bands of strong collagenous connective tissue. These paralleled collagen bundles attached to each other by crosslinking [10]. Mesenchymal cells produce this type of tissue; it can diferentiate into ibroblast cells. These ibroblast cells again diferentiate into ibrocytes cells. After maturation of ibrocytes they become inactive and produce ligaments. Ligaments attach two bones together at a joint, prevent dislocations of the joints, and restrain the movements of the joints. Ligaments contain two-thirds water and one-third solid. Collagen is the solid component of the ligament basically collagen types I and rests of the types are III, VI, XI and XIV. To maintain a considerable range of mechanical and biological properties of soft tissues, related organ systems, and bone collagen plays a vital role [11]. Structure of ACL ACL is not isometric [12]. ACL is made of collagen bundles which are paralleled and cross linked to each other. These bundles vary the tension among the ibers of the ligament [13]. Fibroblasts are joined to the bundles individually. It can produce new

<p>The sample is shown <i>in situ</i> (grey outline) and removed, rotated and e... more <p>The sample is shown <i>in situ</i> (grey outline) and removed, rotated and enlarged to show both mineralized (M) and non-mineralized (NM) layers of cartilage. Arrows indicate the anterior (A), buccal (B) and ventral (V) surfaces of the sample relative to the jaw. Surfaces are defined as follows: anterior surface of the sample corresponded to the frontal plane (anteroposterior axis) of the jaws; the buccal surface of the sample corresponded to the sagittal plane (mediolateral axis) of the jaws; the ventral surface of the sample corresponded to the transverse plane (longitudinal axis) of the jaws. Dashed arrows indicate directions perpendicular to the page.</p

Journal of Biomimetics Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering

A versatile nerve graft was developed for use in peripheral nerve regeneration. Existing techniqu... more A versatile nerve graft was developed for use in peripheral nerve regeneration. Existing techniques such as autography require additional surgery, while current synthetic nerve grafts are only capable of facilitating neuroregeneration across small lesions (<5 mm). Electroconductive polymers, hydrogel and composite systems were reviewed, to help develop a biomaterials basis for the design. A novel configuration for an electroconductive nerve scaffold has been proposed, incorporating an insulated multi-lumen design for re-connecting larger nerve gaps. A single open-lumen conduit and a more advanced multi-channel design with insulating sheaths were fabricated in order to mimic the fascicular architecture seen in peripheral nerves. The scaffold employed a synthetic biomaterial composite of polycaprolactone matrix filled with functionalised Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (f-MWCNTs). The composite suspension was electrospun under the influence of 5kV electric field. 80mm single and multi...

Conference proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual Conference, 2013

In vitro culture of respiratory tissues poses many challenges due to the intrinsic complexity of ... more In vitro culture of respiratory tissues poses many challenges due to the intrinsic complexity of the respiratory system. Multiple cellular phenotypes comprise the respiratory epithelium and operate under dynamic, gas-interchanging conditions that should be replicated for near-physiologic cultivation of functional tissues in vitro. A novel biomimetic perfusion bioreactor system has been proposed to reconstitute key functional conditions of the human lung. This portable system consists of several biologically-inspired components: (i) a 3-dimensional (3-D) elastomeric soft tissue scaffold construct, (ii) a mechanical actuator, (iii) a perfusion system and (iv) gaseous exchange capabilities. These integrated components operate synergistically to create a unique, dynamic air-liquid interface (ALI) environment that allows controlled application of physiological and pathological strain while complementing standard cell culture techniques. This system holds potential for engineering 3-D tis...

Open Ceramics, 2021

Abstract Piezoelectric materials are intensively investigated for usage in biomedical application... more Abstract Piezoelectric materials are intensively investigated for usage in biomedical applications ranging from in vivo sensors and energy harvesters to implants for bone and neural cell stimulation. Besides the high requirements for reliability and low cytotoxicity, implantable materials must be sterilizable without losing their functionality. In this study, we investigate the impact of low temperature plasma sterilization and the associated cleaning routines on the piezoelectric properties of PZT, BCZT and KNN bulk ceramics. The stability of the piezoelectric response strongly depends on the material system, with BCZT ceramics showing the strongest decline in properties. Several factors were identified to contribute to this reduction of the piezoelectric coefficient, the most important being mechanical stress due to sample handling as well as chemical reactions during cleaning, disinfection and sterilization. The study highlights the importance of evaluating the impact of all influencing factors along the pre-implantation handling chain in the material selection process.

Journal of the mechanical behavior of biomedical materials, 2018

We have an interest in the cellular response to mechanical stimuli, and here describe an in-vitro... more We have an interest in the cellular response to mechanical stimuli, and here describe an in-vitro method to examine the response of cells cultured in a three-dimensional matrix to mechanical compressive and tensile stress. Synthetic aliphatic polyester scaffolds coated with 45S5 bioactive glass were seeded with human dental follicular cells (HDFC), and attached to well inserts and magnetic endplates in six well palates. Scaffolds were subjected to either cyclic 10% tensile deformation, or 8% compression, at 1 Hz and 2 Hz respectively for 6, 24 or 48 h, by uniaxial motion of magnetically-coupled endplates. It was possible to isolate high quality mRNA from cells in these scaffolds, as demonstrated by high RNA integrity numbers scores, and ability to perform meaningful cRNA microarray analysis, in which 669 and 727 genes were consistently upregulated, and 662 and 518 genes down regulated at all times studied under tensile and compressive loading conditions respectively. MetaCore analys...

Journal of diabetes research, 2015

Aims/Hypothesis. Topical application of CTGF/CCN2 to rodent diabetic and control wounds was exami... more Aims/Hypothesis. Topical application of CTGF/CCN2 to rodent diabetic and control wounds was examined. In parallel research, correlation of CTGF wound fluid levels with healing rate in human diabetic foot ulcers was undertaken. Methods. Full thickness cutaneous wounds in diabetic and nondiabetic control rats were treated topically with 1 μg rhCTGF or vehicle alone, on 2 consecutive days. Wound healing rate was observed on day 14 and wound sites were examined for breaking strength and granulation tissue. In the human study across 32 subjects, serial CTGF regulation was analyzed longitudinally in postdebridement diabetic wound fluid. Results. CTGF treated diabetic wounds had an accelerated closure rate compared with vehicle treated diabetic wounds. Healed skin withstood more strain before breaking in CTGF treated rat wounds. Granulation tissue from CTGF treatment in diabetic wounds showed collagen IV accumulation compared with nondiabetic animals. Wound α-smooth muscle actin was increa...

Diabetologia, 2009

Aims/hypothesis Chronic non-healing wounds are a common complication of diabetes. Prolonged infla... more Aims/hypothesis Chronic non-healing wounds are a common complication of diabetes. Prolonged inflammation and decreased matrix accumulation may contribute. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is induced during normal wound healing, but its regulation in diabetic wounds is unknown. We developed a primate model for the study of in vivo wound healing in baboons with long diabetes duration. Methods Drum implants were placed subcutaneously into thighs of diabetic and non-diabetic control baboons. After 2 and 4 weeks the skin incision sites were removed for measurement of breaking strength and epithelial thickness. Drum implants were removed for analysis of granulation tissue and inflammatory cells, CTGF and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP-1). Degradation of added CTGF by wound fluid was also examined. Results Healed incision site skin was stiffer (less elastic) in diabetic baboons and epithelial remodelling was slower compared with controls. Granulation tissue from diabetic baboons was reduced at 2 and 4 weeks, with increased vessel lumen areas at 4 weeks. Macrophages were reduced while neutrophils persisted in diabetic tissue. In diabetic wound tissue at 4 weeks there was less CTGF induced, as shown by immunohistochemistry, compared with controls. In contrast, Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article

Acta Biomaterialia, 2008

In this study, mechanical properties of bioactive glass (BAG) synthetic bone graft substitute was... more In this study, mechanical properties of bioactive glass (BAG) synthetic bone graft substitute was improved by containing ZrO2 (ZrO2-BAG), while maintaining advantageous biological properties of BAG such as osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties. The ZrO2-BAG was produced by adding ZrO2 in the following proportions to replace Na2O in 45S5 BAG: 1% (Zr1-BAG), 3% (Zr3-BAG), 6% (Zr6-BAG) and 12% (Zr12-BAG). Properties including XRD, XPS, SEM, DSC, fracture toughness and Vickers microhardness were evaluated. To assess the biological properties, Ca/P apatite formation, ion release, degradation rate, cell proliferation, ALP activity (ALP) and alizarin red S staining assay (ARS) were evaluated. Also, expression of osteogenic differentiation markers, Osteopontin (OPN), confirmed by immunofluorescence staining. Finally, an in vivo test was carried out to by implanting ZrO2-BAG into the subcutaneous tissue of rats. The results of each test were statistically analysed with one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc statistical test. Amorphous ZrO2-BAG was successfully produced with increased mechanical properties as the ZrO2 content was increased. Additionally, ZrO2-BAG exhibited a slower ion release and degradation rate compare to BAG without ZrO2. Bioactivity of ZrO2-BAG was confirmed with apatite layer formed on the surface, significantly higher proliferation rate and significantly enhanced ALP and the degree of ARS of the cells compare to respective controls. The tissue reactions observed in the in vivo study showed neo-formed vessels after implantation of ZrO2-BAG.

SSRN Electronic Journal, 2022

Polymers

The selection of biomaterials as biomedical implants is a significant challenge. Ultra-high molec... more The selection of biomaterials as biomedical implants is a significant challenge. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and composites of such kind have been extensively used in medical implants, notably in the bearings of the hip, knee, and other joint prostheses, owing to its biocompatibility and high wear resistance. For the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) graft, synthetic UHMWPE is an ideal candidate due to its biocompatibility and extremely high tensile strength. However, significant problems are observed in UHMWPE based implants, such as wear debris and oxidative degradation. To resolve the issue of wear and to enhance the life of UHMWPE as an implant, in recent years, this field has witnessed numerous innovative methodologies such as biofunctionalization or high temperature melting of UHMWPE to enhance its toughness and strength. The surface functionalization/modification/treatment of UHMWPE is very challenging as it requires optimizing many variables, such as sur...

This industry based study involved the characterisation of novel waterborne coatings alongside th... more This industry based study involved the characterisation of novel waterborne coatings alongside their solvent-borne alternatives using qualitative and semi-qualitative techniques. Amongst the methods used were scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), Australian paint standard tests, and tensile testing according to linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) theory. Although the first waterborne alkyd emulsion type coating tested was shown to be inferior in most aspects, the second waterborne acrylic copolymer coating was generally found to be superior to the solvent-borne counterparts. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E204495.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Discectomy is a common procedure for treating sciatica. However, both the ope... more BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Discectomy is a common procedure for treating sciatica. However, both the operation and preceding herniated disc alter the biomechanical properties of the spinal segment. The disc mechanics are also altered in patients with chronic contained herniation. The biomechanical properties of the disc can potentially be restored with an elastomeric nucleus replacement implanted via minimally invasive surgery. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the compressive characteristics of the intervertebral disc after a nucleotomy can be restored with an elastomeric nucleus replacement. STUDY DESIGN: A finite element model of the L4–L5 intervertebral disc was created to investigate the effect of the implantation of an elastomeric nucleus replacement on the biomechanical properties of the disc under axial loading. METHOD: A L4–L5 physiologic intervertebral disc model was constructed and then modified to contain a range by volume of nucleotomies and nucleus r...

Journal of The Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, 2017

Characterisation and Design of Tissue Scaffolds, 2016

Tissue engineering scaffolds are biomimetic structures with carefully controlled chemical and phy... more Tissue engineering scaffolds are biomimetic structures with carefully controlled chemical and physical properties. Scaffolds are implanted medical devices and as such are required to meet stringent sterility regulations to ensure patient safety. Common sterilization methods involve harsh conditions that are required to inactivate tough microscopic pathogens. Unfortunately, these conditions will commonly alter the susceptible scaffold biomaterials being sterilized, causing a multitude of chemical, morphological, and mechanical changes that ultimately affect the function of the tissue-engineering device. Because of this phenomenon, tissue engineers need to consider the terminal sterilization method in the initial design process of tissue scaffolds. Recently, tissue engineers have been realizing the elegant solutions in which sterilization methods can be applied to simultaneously provide favorable changes to scaffolds. Scaffolds designed in this way may overcome the high cost shortfalls of current tissue scaffolds.

Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2020

In the original article, we neglected to include that one of the authors, AC, has filed a patent ... more In the original article, we neglected to include that one of the authors, AC, has filed a patent for technology in this general area and that a company HeadsafeIP provided indirect funding to DF, DP, and JH. The authors apologize for this error and state that this does not change the scientific conclusions of the article in any way. The original article has been updated.

ANZ Journal of Surgery, 2020

To clinically evaluate 3D print‐formed implant process, using cranioplasty as a proof of concept,... more To clinically evaluate 3D print‐formed implant process, using cranioplasty as a proof of concept, to examine its effectiveness and utility as a method of intraoperative implant fabrication.

ObjectiveThe structural and functional complexity of the respiratory system present significant c... more ObjectiveThe structural and functional complexity of the respiratory system present significant challenges to capturing conditions vital for maintaining phenotypic cellular functions in vitro. Here we report a unique tissue engineering system that enables respiratory constructs to be cultured under physiological loading at an air-liquid interface (ALI).MethodsThe system consists of a porous poly-e-caprolactone scaffold mounted in a well insert, which articulates via magnetic coupling with a linear actuator device to strain attached scaffolds through a sterile barrier. For proof of concept, NCI-H460 human carcinoma cells were seeded on scaffold inserts which were subjected to 5-15% cyclic tensile strain at 0.2Hz within a six well plate. The dynamic constructs were cultured at an ALI in a standard incubator for up to 10 days along with unstimulated (static) ALI and static submerged control groups.ResultsHigh (near-100%) cell seeding efficiency was achieved within the scaffold-strain d...

Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2020

Materials Science Forum, 2017

This paper will report the fabrication process and microstructure analysis of fibrous composite i... more This paper will report the fabrication process and microstructure analysis of fibrous composite incorporating ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabric, electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL), and bioglass particles. Briefly, electrospinning was performed to form PCL fibre lamination in the surface of UHMWPE fabric. This UHMWPE/PCL material was then bioglass-coated. Sequentially, microstructure of the UHMWPE fabric, UHMWPE/PCL, and UHMWPE/PCL/bioglass was imaged and analysed. The composite showed aligned ultrafine PCL fibres and distribution of bioglass particles in the layer of electrospun PCL. The results of this study provide groundwork for more advanced investigation, as well as development of implant prototype.

Journal of Anesthesia and Surgery, 2016

Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is more common nowadays and it can lead to cartilage degenerat... more Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is more common nowadays and it can lead to cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis [1]. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is frequent [2] and one of the challenging work in tissue engineering [3]. Anterior cruciate ligament is important for maintenance of knee movement [4]. ACL do not heal itself because of its intrinsically poor healing potential and surgical mediation is usually required [5,6]. Allograft and autograft were used for ACL reconstruction [7,8]. Due to several drawbacks of allograft and autograft synthetic grafts are the main option for ACL reconstruction [9]. Ligaments are made of bands of strong collagenous connective tissue. These paralleled collagen bundles attached to each other by crosslinking [10]. Mesenchymal cells produce this type of tissue; it can diferentiate into ibroblast cells. These ibroblast cells again diferentiate into ibrocytes cells. After maturation of ibrocytes they become inactive and produce ligaments. Ligaments attach two bones together at a joint, prevent dislocations of the joints, and restrain the movements of the joints. Ligaments contain two-thirds water and one-third solid. Collagen is the solid component of the ligament basically collagen types I and rests of the types are III, VI, XI and XIV. To maintain a considerable range of mechanical and biological properties of soft tissues, related organ systems, and bone collagen plays a vital role [11]. Structure of ACL ACL is not isometric [12]. ACL is made of collagen bundles which are paralleled and cross linked to each other. These bundles vary the tension among the ibers of the ligament [13]. Fibroblasts are joined to the bundles individually. It can produce new

<p>The sample is shown <i>in situ</i> (grey outline) and removed, rotated and e... more <p>The sample is shown <i>in situ</i> (grey outline) and removed, rotated and enlarged to show both mineralized (M) and non-mineralized (NM) layers of cartilage. Arrows indicate the anterior (A), buccal (B) and ventral (V) surfaces of the sample relative to the jaw. Surfaces are defined as follows: anterior surface of the sample corresponded to the frontal plane (anteroposterior axis) of the jaws; the buccal surface of the sample corresponded to the sagittal plane (mediolateral axis) of the jaws; the ventral surface of the sample corresponded to the transverse plane (longitudinal axis) of the jaws. Dashed arrows indicate directions perpendicular to the page.</p

Journal of Biomimetics Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering

A versatile nerve graft was developed for use in peripheral nerve regeneration. Existing techniqu... more A versatile nerve graft was developed for use in peripheral nerve regeneration. Existing techniques such as autography require additional surgery, while current synthetic nerve grafts are only capable of facilitating neuroregeneration across small lesions (<5 mm). Electroconductive polymers, hydrogel and composite systems were reviewed, to help develop a biomaterials basis for the design. A novel configuration for an electroconductive nerve scaffold has been proposed, incorporating an insulated multi-lumen design for re-connecting larger nerve gaps. A single open-lumen conduit and a more advanced multi-channel design with insulating sheaths were fabricated in order to mimic the fascicular architecture seen in peripheral nerves. The scaffold employed a synthetic biomaterial composite of polycaprolactone matrix filled with functionalised Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (f-MWCNTs). The composite suspension was electrospun under the influence of 5kV electric field. 80mm single and multi...

Conference proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual Conference, 2013

In vitro culture of respiratory tissues poses many challenges due to the intrinsic complexity of ... more In vitro culture of respiratory tissues poses many challenges due to the intrinsic complexity of the respiratory system. Multiple cellular phenotypes comprise the respiratory epithelium and operate under dynamic, gas-interchanging conditions that should be replicated for near-physiologic cultivation of functional tissues in vitro. A novel biomimetic perfusion bioreactor system has been proposed to reconstitute key functional conditions of the human lung. This portable system consists of several biologically-inspired components: (i) a 3-dimensional (3-D) elastomeric soft tissue scaffold construct, (ii) a mechanical actuator, (iii) a perfusion system and (iv) gaseous exchange capabilities. These integrated components operate synergistically to create a unique, dynamic air-liquid interface (ALI) environment that allows controlled application of physiological and pathological strain while complementing standard cell culture techniques. This system holds potential for engineering 3-D tis...