Nanocellulose: Recent Advances Toward Biomedical Applications.

Sustainable materials are key to the continual improvement of living standards on this planet with minimal environmental impacts. Nanocellulose combines the fascinating features of nanomaterials with favorable properties of the abundantly available cellulose biopolymer, which in recent years has gained much attention toward biomedical applications by virtue of its unique surface chemistry, remarkable physical features, and inherent biological attributes. Herein, the recent advances in nanocellulose-based biomedical materials, with foci on biomolecule immobilization, drug delivery, cell culture and tissue engineering (TE), antimicrobial strategy, wound healing, and biomedical implants are summarized.

Hyaluronic acid-green tea catechin conjugates as a potential therapeutic agent for rheumatoid arthritis.

Fibroblast-like synoviocytes are a key effector cell type involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. The major green tea catechin, epigallocatechin-3--gallate (EGCG), has attracted significant interest for rheumatoid arthritis therapy because of its ability to suppress the proliferation and interleukin-6 secretion of synoviocytes. However, therapeutic efficacy of EGCG has been limited by a lack of target cell specificity.

Exploring Reusability of Disposable Face Masks: Effects of Disinfection Methods on Filtration Efficiency, Breathability, and Fluid Resistance.

To curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the use of face masks such as disposable surgical masks and N95 respirators is being encouraged and even enforced in some countries. The widespread use of masks has resulted in global shortages and individuals are reusing them. This calls for proper disinfection of the masks while retaining their protective capability.