Regenerative Solutions Research Articles

Іntensification of ion exchange processes in water supply systems

In today's environment, special attention is paid to various methods of intensifying natural and wastewater treatment processes, improving existing treatment technologies, and introducing new methods and techniques to improve the quality of wastewater treatment and reduce the anthropogenic impact on the ecosystem. It is important to take into account not only the effectiveness of cleaning, but also its environmental friendliness and compliance with modern standards and requirements for environmental protection. This approach helps to ensure the sustainability of ecosystems and preservation of water resources for future generations. The article highlights the issues related to the use of physical methods of water treatment in water supply systems. To intensify the processes of ion exchange in water supply systems, a method of adjusting the mineral composition of natural and waste water using modified ion exchangers is proposed, which involves the simultaneous action of a magnetic field on the ion exchanger and the water to be treated. The use of magnetic modification of ion exchangers allows to increase the productivity of water treatment facilities by an average of 25-30%, with the receipt of filtrate of the required quality, to increase the duration of the filter cycle, to reduce the consumption of regenerative solutions, which indicates an increase in the efficiency of water treatment as a result of the use of magnetic modification. An increase in the dynamic volume capacity of ion exchangers by 15-20% was found, which indicates an improvement in ion exchange capacity due to the intensification of ion exchange processes in water supply systems. The intensification of ion exchange processes during the adjustment of the mineral composition of natural and wastewater using a magnetic field is determined by the following main factors: the effect of the magnetic field on the structure and properties of water filtered through the ionite and the effect of the magnet field on the activity and mobility of the exchanged ions, their diffusion and hydration, ion-exchange equilibrium, and other factors.

Co-Production Boundaries of Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Regeneration: The Case of a Healthy Corridor

Co-production, rooted in public collaborative management (Ostrom, 1996) or science and technology (Jasanoff, 2013) evolution, has demonstrated its innovative and transformative character within participatory processes. However, there is little empirical evidence that scrutinises these contexts of interaction. Equality of partnership in many cases is used as a discursive rhetoric that seeks to prescribe co-production above any difficulty, uncertainty, conflict, or unwanted situation. As a starting point, our proposal considers co-production as a social practice, composed of multiple layers and different participatory processes, activities, and strategies. Grounded in co-production approaches, the study draws upon the ongoing evaluation findings of the European project URBiNAT, which focuses on inclusive urban regeneration through nature-based solutions. The qualitative methods of evaluation (interviews and participant observation), applied during the co-production activities in the city of Porto (Portugal), provide evidence of how the various stakeholders—elected politicians, citizens, technicians, and researchers—participate in the co-production dynamic. The boundaries of a multi-stakeholder process are revealed with the goal of implementing healthy corridors in peripheral neighbourhoods. The intended evaluation analysis lies in the techniques, the agents, the dynamics, the knowledge, and the degrees of co-production. This analysis will contribute to the lack of explicit consideration of the impacts of nature-based solutions in urban regeneration pathways, especially those related to the social fabric underlined in Dumitru et al. (2020).

Flood-resilient and inclusive futures: Integrating community, governance and ecology

Various parts of the Davao region, particularly in Davao del Norte, have recently experienced severe flooding and landslides caused by prolonged heavy rainfall due to the shear line weather system and a low-pressure area. The aftermath has led to significant displacement, disruptions in transportation networks, and loss of homes and lives. The response requires a collective effort from local authorities, NGOs, private sectors, and affected communities, focusing on well-equipped evacuation centers, meeting basic needs, and sustainable design principles. Safeguarding vulnerable populations, including women, children, and senior citizens, is emphasized, requiring tailored assistance and inclusive decision-making processes. Regenerative solutions beyond temporary relief, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable urban planning are imperative to address long-term challenges. Flood management is a comprehensive, multi-sectoral, and integrated approach, involving community participation, collaborative governance, and application of ecological principles. A holistic understanding of the nexus between human societies and the environment is crucial for fostering resilient social-ecological systems, encompassing coping mechanisms, adaptive strategies, and transformative capacities to thrive amidst the dynamics of nature.

Application of Adipose Stem Cells in 3D Nerve Guidance Conduit Prevents Muscle Atrophy and Improves Distal Muscle Compliance in a Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Model.

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) represent a significant clinical problem, and standard approaches to nerve repair have limitations. Recent breakthroughs in 3D printing and stem cell technologies offer a promising solution for nerve regeneration. The main purpose of this study was to examine the biomechanical characteristics in muscle tissue distal to a nerve defect in a murine model of peripheral nerve regeneration from physiological stress to failure. In this experimental study, we enrolled 18 Wistar rats in which we created a 10 mm sciatic nerve defect. Furthermore, we divided them into three groups as follows: in Group 1, we used 3D nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) and adipose stem cells (ASCs) in seven rats; in Group 2, we used only 3D NGCs for seven rats; and in Group 3, we created only the defect in four rats. We monitored the degree of atrophy at 4, 8, and 12 weeks by measuring the diameter of the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle. At the end of 12 weeks, we took the TA muscle and analyzed it uniaxially at 10% stretch until failure. In the group of animals with 3D NGCs and ASCs, we recorded the lowest degree of atrophy at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks after nerve reconstruction. At 10% stretch, the control group had the highest Cauchy stress values compared to the 3D NGC group (0.164 MPa vs. 0.141 MPa, p = 0.007) and the 3D NGC + ASC group (0.164 MPa vs. 0.123 MPa, p = 0.007). In addition, we found that the control group (1.763 MPa) had the highest TA muscle stiffness, followed by the 3D NGC group (1.412 MPa), with the best muscle elasticity showing in the group in which we used 3D NGC + ASC (1.147 MPa). At failure, TA muscle samples from the 3D NGC + ASC group demonstrated better compliance and a higher degree of elasticity compared to the other two groups (p = 0.002 and p = 0.008). Our study demonstrates that the combination of 3D NGC and ASC increases the process of nerve regeneration and significantly improves the compliance and mechanical characteristics of muscle tissue distal to the injury site in a PNI murine model.

Effects of Innervation on Angiogenesis and Osteogenesis in Bone and Dental Tissue Engineering.

The repair and regeneration of critical-sized bone defects remain an urgent challenge. Bone tissue engineering represents an exciting solution for regeneration of large bone defects. Recently, the importance of innervation in tissue-engineered bone regeneration has been increasingly recognized. The cross talk between nerve and bone provides important clues for bone repair and regeneration. Furthermore, the promotion of angiogenesis by innervation can accelerate new bone formation. However, the mechanisms involved in the promotion of vascular and bone regeneration by the nervous system have not yet been established. In addition, simultaneous neurogenesis and vascularization in bone tissue engineering have not been fully investigated. This article represents the first review on the effects of innervation in enhancing angiogenesis and osteogenesis in bone and dental tissue engineering. Cutting-edge research on the effects of innervation through biomaterials on bone and dental tissue repairs is reviewed. The effects of various nerve-related factors and cells on bone regeneration are discussed. Finally, novel clinical applications of innervation for bone, dental, and craniofacial tissue regeneration are also examined.

Effect of a retinoic acid analogue on BMP-driven pluripotent stem cell chondrogenesis

Osteoarthritis is the most common degenerative joint condition, leading to articular cartilage (AC) degradation, chronic pain and immobility. The lack of appropriate therapies that provide tissue restoration combined with the limited lifespan of joint-replacement implants indicate the need for alternative AC regeneration strategies. Differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into AC progenitors may provide a long-term regenerative solution but is still limited due to the continued reliance upon growth factors to recapitulate developmental signalling processes. Recently, TTNPB, a small molecule activator of retinoic acid receptors (RARs), has been shown to be sufficient to guide mesodermal specification and early chondrogenesis of hPSCs. Here, we modified our previous differentiation protocol, by supplementing cells with TTNPB and administering BMP2 at specific times to enhance early development (referred to as the RAPID-E protocol). Transcriptomic analyses indicated that activation of RAR signalling significantly upregulated genes related to limb and embryonic skeletal development in the early stages of the protocol and upregulated genes related to AC development in later stages. Chondroprogenitors obtained from RAPID-E could generate cartilaginous pellets that expressed AC-related matrix proteins such as Lubricin, Aggrecan, and Collagen II, but additionally expressed Collagen X, indicative of hypertrophy. This protocol could lay the foundations for cell therapy strategies for osteoarthritis and improve the understanding of AC development in humans.

Harnessing filamentous phages for enhanced stroke recovery.

Stroke poses a critical global health challenge, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Existing treatments often miss vital timeframes and encounter limitations due to adverse effects, prompting the pursuit of innovative approaches to restore compromised brain function. This review explores the potential of filamentous phages in enhancing stroke recovery. Initially antimicrobial-centric, bacteriophage therapy has evolved into a regenerative solution. We explore the diverse role of filamentous phages in post-stroke neurological restoration, emphasizing their ability to integrate peptides into phage coat proteins, thereby facilitating recovery. Experimental evidence supports their efficacy in alleviating post-stroke complications, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. However, rigorous clinical validation is essential to address challenges like dosing and administration routes. Additionally, genetic modification enhances their potential as injectable biomaterials for complex brain tissue issues. This review emphasizes innovative strategies and the capacity of filamentous phages to contribute to enhanced stroke recovery, as opposed to serving as standalone treatment, particularly in addressing stroke-induced brain tissue damage.

Suitability of Ex Vivo-Expanded Microtic Perichondrocytes for Auricular Reconstruction.

Tissue engineering (TE) techniques offer solutions for tissue regeneration but require large quantities of cells. For microtia patients, TE methods represent a unique opportunity for therapies with low donor-site morbidity and reliance on the surgeon's individual expertise. Microtia-derived chondrocytes and perichondrocytes are considered a valuable cell source for autologous reconstruction of the pinna. The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of perichondrocytes from microtia patients for autologous reconstruction in comparison to healthy perichondrocytes and microtia chondrocytes. Perichondrocytes were isolated via two different methods: explant culture and enzymatic digestion. The isolated cells were analyzed in vitro for their chondrogenic cell properties. We examined migration activity, colony-forming ability, expression of mesenchymal stem cell markers, and gene expression profile. We found that microtic perichondrocytes exhibit similar chondrogenic properties compared to chondrocytes in vitro. We investigated the behavior in three-dimensional cell cultures (spheroids and scaffold-based 3D cell cultures) and assessed the expression of cartilage-specific proteins via immunohistochemistry, e.g., collagen II, which was detected in all samples. Our results show that perichondrocytes from microtia patients are comparable to healthy perichondrocytes and chondrocytes in terms of chondrogenic cell properties and could therefore be a promising cell source for auricular reconstruction.

Regenerating Place: Highlighting the Role of Ecological Knowledge

As many local places globally suffer from ecological and social decline, sustainability research increasingly recognizes the critical importance of studying organizational efforts toward regenerating local communities and ecosystems. This emerging research, however, overlooks the role of ecological knowledge, that is, place-based understanding of the processes and functions of the ecosystems in which organizations operate. As such, we ask “How do organizations harness ecological knowledge to advance the regeneration of local places?” Through an inductive study of nine certified organic farming organizations on Vancouver Island, Canada, we find that organizations engage in three cyclical and closely interlinked practices of identifying, acquiring, and applying ecological knowledge which together enhance their organizational performance while contributing to regenerating the local social-ecological systems. Our empirically grounded model of leveraging ecological knowledge contributes to research on sustainability and place, and to studies of regeneration, by uncovering the specific practices that enable firms to develop place-based regenerative solutions.

Advanced Hydrogel Material for Meniscus Repair

AbstractThe foundation of regenerative medicine is the investigation and progression of hypotheses and approaches for substituting, mending, reconstructing, or regenerating different tissues and organs within the human body. Nevertheless, due to the slender central segment and the entire unattached configuration of the meniscus, the efficacy of conventional therapies is unsatisfactory in reinstating meniscal health and functionality. To overcome these limitations, medical‐type hydrogels have the potential to provide a solution for meniscus repair and regeneration. Their biocompatibility and modifiability enable safe implantations in vivo, effectively modifying the pathophysiology of cells and the surrounding microenvironment at the site of meniscal injury. This article reviews the usage of different implantable medical‐type hydrogels in meniscal regeneration and repair. First, the structure and physiologic function of the meniscus are first briefly described. Following this, the use of varying hydrogels in meniscus repair is highlighted, alongside a discussion of different materials employed in constructing hydrogel implants. Lastly, an analysis of the issues and challenges associated with hydrogels in meniscus repair is presented.

A NEW TISSUE-ENGINEERED PRODUCT INDICATED FOR BONE RECONSTRUCTION: PROOF OF CONCEPT

To design slow resorption patient-specific bone graft whose properties of bone regeneration are increased by its geometry and composition and to assess it in in-vitro and in-vivo models.A graft composed by hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-TCP was designed as a cylinder with 3D gyroid porosities and 7 mm medullary space based on swine's anatomy. It was produced using a stereolithography 3D-printing machine (V6000, Prodways).Sterile bone grafts impregnated with or without a 10µg/mL porcine BMP-2 (pBMP-2) solution were implanted into porcine femurs in a bone loss model. Bone defect was bi-weekly evaluated by X-ray during 3 months. After sacrifice, microscanner and non-decalcified histology analysis were conducted on biopsies.Finally, osteoblasts were cultured inside the bone graft or in monolayer underneath the bone graft. Cell viability, proliferation, and gene expression were assessed after 7 and 14 days of cell culture (n=3 patients).3D scaffolds were successfully manufactured with a composition of 80% HA and 20% β-TCP ±5% with indentation compressive strength of 4.14 MPa and bending strength of 11.8MPa.In vivo study showed that bone regeneration was highly improved in presence of pBMP-2. Micro-CT shows a filling of the gyroid sinuses of the implant (Figure 1).In vitro, the presence of BMP2 did not influence the viability of the osteoblasts and the mortality remained below 3%. After 7 days, the presence of BMP2 in the scaffold significantly increased by 85 and 65% the COL1A1 expression and by 8 and 33-fold the TNAP expression by osteoblasts in the monolayer or in the scaffold, respectively. This BMP2 effect was transient in monolayer and did not modify gene expression at day 14.BMP2-impregnated bone graft is a promising patient-personalized 3D-printed solution for bone defect regeneration, by promoting neighboring host cells recruitment and solid new bone formation.For any figures and tables, please contact the authors directly.

Reuse strategy and management models for abandoned industrial areas. A case study in Yerevan

In the conditions of ever growing urbanization and increasing prominence of the sustainability agenda the issue of urban quality is subject to prior consideration worldwide. In this context the revitalization of abandoned industrial areas entails the reconstruction of buildings, structures and spaces with significant functional potential. This paper explores the methodologies proposed for the reconstruction of abandoned industrial areas in Yerevan, focusing on elaboration of the environmental-economic criteria. This approach aligns with the principles of sustainable economic and urban development, considering comprehensive impact on environmental, social, and economic aspects throughout the entire reconstruction process. The developed methodology offers an inclusive analysis of existing environmental-economic conditions of the abandoned industrial areas of Yerevan, ensuring compliance with current legal norms and standards. The applied calculation method uses an innovative analytical formula that enables investors to estimate the projected costs more accurately and precisely. It is proposed to apply a new application developed using BIM technologies which provides an opportunity to carry out a systematic assessment and analysis of abandoned industrial areas based on formula averaged values of environmental-economic parameters. The tool also facilitates development of a management model that will allow evaluation of the feasibility of abandoned industrial area reuse. The conclusions derived from this study offer an exceptional opportunity to identify practical and optimal solutions for regeneration of the urban built environment, guided by the principles of sustainable urban development and by careful consideration of potential risks.

Nanofiltration as an effective method of NaOH recovery from regenerative solutions

Nanofiltration as an effective method of NaOH recovery from regenerative solutions

Dental stem cells and their applications in pediatric dentistry

Regenerative medicine has garnered significant attention due to its transformative impact on disease management and the restoration of optimal bodily functions. Stem cells, a cornerstone of regenerative medicine, are particularly renowned for their remarkable capacity to facilitate tissue regeneration and repair, revolutionizing modern healthcare by offering diverse treatment avenues for multiple conditions. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), a subset of postnatal stem cells, are especially noteworthy for their extensive proliferation and ability to differentiate into various specialized cell types. In the realm of pediatric dentistry, there exists a pressing need for advancements in regenerative medicine. Thorough research in this domain has the potential to propel evidence-based pediatric dentistry, ensuring that children receive tailored, high-quality care. Stem cells hold immense promise in pediatric dentistry by offering less invasive and regenerative solutions for a range of childhood dental issues and congenital anomalies. This research, initiated on 04 October 2023, was instigated following an exhaustive review of existing literature utilizing databases like PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The literature search encompassed a wide array of medical terminologies. Dental stem cells are categorized into four major types: DPSCs, stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED), stem cells of the apical papilla (SCAP), and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). Pediatric dentistry, encompassing endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, and the treatment of craniofacial defects, stands to benefit significantly from the potential of dental stem cells. The preservation of dental pulp stem cells extracted from deciduous and permanent teeth through tooth banking offers a source for future regenerative therapies. The preservation process involves multiple comprehensive steps. In summary, dental stem cells present a promising avenue within pediatric dentistry, offering multifaceted applications ranging from pulpal regeneration and dentin repair to orthodontic support and the treatment of craniofacial anomalies.

From Static to Dynamic: Smart Materials Pioneering Additive Manufacturing in Regenerative Medicine.

The emerging field of regenerative medicine holds immense promise for addressing complex tissue and organ regeneration challenges. Central to its advancement is the evolution of additive manufacturing techniques, which have transcended static constructs to embrace dynamic, biomimetic solutions. This manuscript explores the pivotal role of smart materials in this transformative journey, where materials are endowed with dynamic responsiveness to biological cues and environmental changes. By delving into the innovative integration of smart materials, such as shape memory polymers and stimulus-responsive hydrogels, into additive manufacturing processes, this research illuminates the potential to engineer tissue constructs with unparalleled biomimicry. From dynamically adapting scaffolds that mimic the mechanical behavior of native tissues to drug delivery systems that respond to physiological cues, the convergence of smart materials and additive manufacturing heralds a new era in regenerative medicine. This manuscript presents an insightful overview of recent advancements, challenges, and future prospects, underscoring the pivotal role of smart materials as pioneers in shaping the dynamic landscape of regenerative medicine and heralding a future where tissue engineering is propelled beyond static constructs towards biomimetic, responsive, and regenerative solutions.

PEDOT-Coated PLA Fibers Electrospun from Solutions Incorporating Fe(III)Tosylate in Different Solvents by Vapor-Phase Polymerization for Neural Regeneration.

Therapeutic solutions for injuries in the peripheral nervous system are limited and not existing in the case of the central nervous system. The electrical stimulation of cells through a cell-supporting conductive scaffold may contribute to new therapeutic solutions for nerve regeneration. In this work, biocompatible Polylactic acid (PLA) fibrous scaffolds incorporating Fe(III)Tosylate (FeTos) were produced by electrospinning a mixture of PLA/FeTos solutions towards a rotating cylinder, inducing fiber alignment. Fibers were coated with the conductive polymer Poly(3,4 ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) formed by vapor-phase polymerization of EDOT at 70 °C for 2 h. Different solvents (ETH, DMF and THF) were used as FeTos solvents to investigate the impact on the scaffold's conductivity. Scaffold conductivity was estimated to be as high as 1.50 × 10-1 S/cm when FeTos was dissolved in DMF. In vitro tests were performed to evaluate possible scaffold cytotoxicity, following ISO 10993-5, revealing no cytotoxic effects. Differentiation and growth of cells from the neural cell line SH-SY5Y seeded on the scaffolds were also assessed, with neuritic extensions observed in cells differentiated in neurons with retinoic acid. These extensions tended to follow the preferential alignment of the scaffold fibers.

A Review on In-Situ Denitrification Technology for Consideration in Jaffna Peninsula Aquifer Remediation

A Review on In-Situ Denitrification Technology for Consideration in Jaffna Peninsula Aquifer Remediation

New Approaches to Comprehensive Electrochemical Processing of Sulfate-Chloride High-Mineralized Wastewater Treatment Residues

Abstract The results of electrochemical processing of spent acidic, neutral, and alkaline sulfate-chloride-containing regenerative solutions in two- and three-chamber electrolyzers are presented. It has been determined that the highest current efficiency for the products of electrodialysis can be achieved in the presence of hardness ions when processing acidic sulfate-containing solutions using three-chamber electrolyzers. It has been established that during electrodialysis of alkaline solutions after regeneration of anionites containing chloride ions, accumulation of alkali occurs in the cathodic region, and in the anodic region, chloride ions accumulate due to diffusion through the anion exchange membrane during the first stage, followed by preferential oxidation of chloride ions with liberation of free chlorine during the second stage. It has been shown that electrodialysis can effectively solve the problem of comprehensive processing of neutral, alkaline, and acidic regenerative sulfate-chloride-containing solutions, with the production of alkali and acid at concentrations suitable for reuse in regeneration processes.

Sustainable Exploration of “Plug-In Design” in Public Space of the Old City in Guangzhou: Case Study on Xudi-Gaodijie

The current regeneration mode of public space in the old city of Guangzhou is ineffective, thus necessitating supplementation with a more systematic methodology. The “plug-in design” targets sustainable regeneration while preserving the overall urban texture and context, i.e., it has little impact on the spatial qualities of the old city. The ultimate goal is to activate the public space of the old city of Guangzhou point to area through the insertion of various plug-ins. In this study, the methodology is applied to Xudi Gaodi Street, the core area of the old city of Guangzhou, to explore its effects on sustainability. The internal public space is isolated and supplied with rigid and flexible plug-ins from multiple dimensions, which not only improves the spatial environment but also injects new urban formats. This work provides a specific solution for regeneration in Guangzhou’s old city while enhancing empirical knowledge of the plug-in design to support urban regeneration theory and further practical development.

Human Spinal Oligodendrogenic Neural Progenitor Cells Enhance Pathophysiological Outcomes and Functional Recovery in a Clinically Relevant Cervical Spinal Cord Injury Rat Model.

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) results in the loss of neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. Present interventions for SCI include decompressive surgery, anti-inflammatory therapies, and rehabilitation programs. Nonetheless, these approaches do not offer regenerative solutions to replace the lost cells, fiber tracts, and circuits. Neural stem/progenitor cell (NPC) transplantation is a promising strategy that aims to encourage regeneration. However, NPC differentiation remains inconsistent, thus, contributing to suboptimal functional recovery. As such, we have previously engineered oligodendrogenically biased NPCs (oNPCs) and demonstrated their efficacy in a thoracic model of SCI. Since the majority of patients with SCI experience cervical injuries, our objective in the current study was to generate human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived oNPCs (hiPSC-oNPCs) and to characterize these cells in vitro and in vivo, utilizing a clinically relevant rodent model of cervical SCI. Following transplantation, the oNPCs engrafted, migrated to the rostral and caudal regions of the lesion, and demonstrated preferential differentiation toward oligodendrocytes. Histopathological evaluations revealed that oNPC transplantation facilitated tissue preservation while diminishing astrogliosis. Moreover, oNPC transplantation fostered remyelination of the spared tissue. Functional analyses indicated improved forelimb grip strength, gait, and locomotor function in the oNPC-transplanted rats. Importantly, oNPC transplantation did not exacerbate neuropathic pain or induce tumor formation. In conclusion, these findings underscore the therapeutic potential of oNPCs in promoting functional recovery and histopathological improvements in cervical SCI. This evidence warrants further investigation to optimize and advance this promising cell-based therapeutic approach.