Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings

A special issue of Coatings (ISSN 2079-6412). This special issue belongs to the section "Bioactive Coatings and Biointerfaces".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 July 2024 | Viewed by 37046

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
National Institute of Materials Physics, Atomistilor Street, No. 405A, P.O. Box MG 07, 077125 Magurele, Romania
Interests: biomaterials; biomedical applications; biotechnology; environmental applications; food industry; hydroxyapatite; magnetic properties; iron oxide nanoparticles; structural properties; surface properties; antimicrobial properties; antimicrobial coatings; pharmaceutical applications; colloidal properties
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
National Institute of Materials Physics, Atomistilor Street, No. 405A, P.O. Box MG 07, 077125 Magurele, Romania
Interests: biomaterials; nanoparticles; hydroxyapatite; biomedical applications; physico-chemical properties
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Department of General Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Eroii Sanitari, Sector 5, 050474 Bucharest, Romania

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recently, the materials science field has been rapidly expanding and the area of biomaterials is one of the most studied due to its importance at a global level. In the past few decades, numerous significant advances have been registered in the technology of biomedical coatings and materials with multiple uses in medicine, dentistry, pharmaceutics, and the food industry. Furthermore, great importance has been attributed to the development of biomaterials with antimicrobial properties due to their tremendous potential in the development of novel antimicrobial agents. Thus, significant efforts have been made to develop new and improved nanocomposites with biocompatible properties and antimicrobial activity to be used in biomedical applications. In this context, this Special Issue is focused on the development of biomaterials with antimicrobial properties for biomedical applications.

About the Topics of Interest

In particular, the topics of interest include but are not limited to the following:

  • Biomaterials
  • Antimicrobial properties
  • Biocompatible coatings
  • Biocompatible coatings with antimicrobial properties

Dr. Daniela Predoi
Dr. Steluta Carmen Ciobanu
Dr. Alina Mihaela Prodan
Guest Editors

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Published Papers (17 papers)

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19 pages, 4338 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Photothermal Antimicrobial Performance of Triple Linkage Hydrogels
by Zekun Chen, Qingyue Yin, Liang Xu, Wenwen Guo and Caihong Tao
Coatings 2024, 14(3), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14030363 - 19 Mar 2024
Viewed by 913
Abstract
Often, bacterial infections delay the rate of healing of traumatic wounds, making it critical to improve antimicrobial efficiency. In this paper, titanium nanotubes (TNT) with good antimicrobial and synergistic photothermal properties were used as the core, and mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) thin films were [...] Read more.
Often, bacterial infections delay the rate of healing of traumatic wounds, making it critical to improve antimicrobial efficiency. In this paper, titanium nanotubes (TNT) with good antimicrobial and synergistic photothermal properties were used as the core, and mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) thin films were constructed on their surface. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with excellent photothermal conversion efficiencies (PCE) were incorporated. Finally, a large number of composite nanoparticles were added to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) with wound-restoring ability, and an injectable antimicrobial hydrogel was successfully prepared by a one-pot synthesis. The antimicrobial effect of TNT@MPDA@Au nanoparticles with different concentrations was assessed by in vitro antimicrobial experiments on Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The higher the concentration of nanoparticles under near-infrared light irradiation (NIR), the stronger the antimicrobial effect. The in vitro cytotoxicity of TNT@MPDA and TNT@MPDA@Au nanoparticles on 293T normal cells was tested through CCK-8 assay. The results show that both nanoparticles have favourable biocompatibility. In this paper, a three-component synergistic photothermal antimicrobial nano-antimicrobial platform was constituted by incorporating MPDA, a photothermal agent with excellent biocompatibility and photothermal properties, and AuNPs with good photothermal properties on TNT with excellent photocatalytic properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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16 pages, 2925 KiB  
Article
Obtaining of Antibacterial Nanoporous Layer on Ti7.5Mo Alloy Surface Combining Alkaline Treatment and Silver: In Vitro Studies
by Barbara Lois Mathias de Souza, Ana Lúcia do Amaral Escada, Célio Junior da Costa Fernandes, Gerson Santos de Almeida, Willian Fernando Zambuzzi, Patricia Capellato, Daniela Sachs and Ana Paula Rosifini Alves
Coatings 2024, 14(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14010052 - 29 Dec 2023
Viewed by 804
Abstract
In the present study, a combination of alkaline treatment and silver was used to produce an antibacterial nanolayer on the Ti7.5Mo alloy surface. The antibacterial response and osteogenesis were evaluated by assessing the adhesion and proliferation of S. aureus and S. epidermidis, as [...] Read more.
In the present study, a combination of alkaline treatment and silver was used to produce an antibacterial nanolayer on the Ti7.5Mo alloy surface. The antibacterial response and osteogenesis were evaluated by assessing the adhesion and proliferation of S. aureus and S. epidermidis, as well as the adhesion, viability, and expression levels of genes involved in osteogenic differentiation in the mouse pre-osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1. The potential stimulus of extracellular remodeling was evaluated using zymography. Our results showed that there is no difference in cytotoxicity after silver immobilization. Protein activity (MMP9) progressively increased for theTi7.5Mo alloy, both untreated and after alkaline treatment. However, the highest increase in protein activity was observed when the alloy was in direct contact with immobilized silver nanoparticles. The surfaces containing silver showed a better response in terms of colony formation, meaning that less bacterial adhesion was detected. The results showed that the layer formed was effective in reducing bacterial activity without altering cell viability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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24 pages, 6232 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties of ZnO and Cu Coatings Deposited by Magnetron Sputtering: Evaluation of Cell Viability and ROS Production
by Viktors Vibornijs, Martins Zubkins, Edvards Strods, Zhanna Rudevica, Ksenija Korotkaja, Andrejs Ogurcovs, Karlis Kundzins, Juris Purans and Anna Zajakina
Coatings 2024, 14(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14010014 - 22 Dec 2023
Viewed by 839
Abstract
The development and testing of antimicrobial coatings continues to be a crucial approach, considering the ongoing emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the rapid transmission of highly pathogenic viruses. In this study, three types of coatings—pure metallic copper (Cu), zinc oxide (ZnO), and a [...] Read more.
The development and testing of antimicrobial coatings continues to be a crucial approach, considering the ongoing emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the rapid transmission of highly pathogenic viruses. In this study, three types of coatings—pure metallic copper (Cu), zinc oxide (ZnO), and a three-layer zinc oxide and copper mixed coating (ZnO/Cu/ZnO)—were deposited by magnetron sputtering on polyethylene terephthalate substrates to evaluate their antimicrobial potential using various microorganisms, including viruses. Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli bacteria were used for the assessment of antibacterial properties. Antiviral testing was performed using MS2 bacteriophage and replication-deficient Semliki Forest virus, both representing single-stranded RNA-containing viruses. The samples’ ability to cause reactive oxygen species formation was measured, and the effect on bacterial metabolic activity was evaluated. Cu-coated samples showed high inhibitory activity (>95%) against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria, as well as against tested viruses (SFV and MS2). The antibacterial and antiviral properties of ZnO/Cu/ZnO and ZnO coatings were not significant. Although ZnO/Cu/ZnO and ZnO caused inhibition of the metabolic activity of the bacteria, it was insufficient for complete bacteria eradication. Furthermore, significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was detected only for single Cu-coated samples, correlating with the strong bacteria-killing ability. We suppose that the ZnO layer exhibited a low release of Zn ions and prevented contact of the Cu layer with bacteria and viruses in the ZnO/Cu/ZnO coating. We conclude that current ZnO and Cu-ZnO-layered coatings do not possess antibacterial and antiviral activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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11 pages, 2010 KiB  
Article
Comparing the Antibacterial Effect of Coated and Impregnated Flexible Dentures with Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans
by Zhala Dara Meran, Pakhshan A. Hassan and Ranj Nadhim Salaie
Coatings 2023, 13(8), 1429; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings13081429 - 15 Aug 2023
Viewed by 1054
Abstract
(1) Background: This study compares the antibacterial effect of coated and impregnated flexible dentures with magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) against Streptococcus mutans. (2) Methods: the study used flexible denture material discs. The experimental groups were uncoated dics (control), 5% MgONPs coated discs (coated), [...] Read more.
(1) Background: This study compares the antibacterial effect of coated and impregnated flexible dentures with magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) against Streptococcus mutans. (2) Methods: the study used flexible denture material discs. The experimental groups were uncoated dics (control), 5% MgONPs coated discs (coated), and 5% MgONPs impregnated discs (impregnated). The homogenous distribution of MgONPs within the matrix was determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and surface roughness and modulus elasticity were also measured. The antibacterial efficacy was tested against Streptococcus mutans in suspension and biofilm. The adhesion of microorganisms was assessed using an adherence assay test, optical light microscopy, and turbidity test. (3) Results: The nanoparticles were successfully coated or impregnated on the substrate and caused a significant increase in roughness. The effect of 5% MgONPs was significant (p < 0.05). The flexible denture samples whether coated or impregnated with 5% MgONPs effectively inhibited the growth of microorganisms. The Streptococcus mutans growth was 2.5 folds higher in control compared to coated samples, while Streptococcus mutans growth was 1.5 folds higher in control compared to impregnated samples. Furthermore, this study confirmed there was a homogenous distribution of MgONPs for both coated and impregnated groups. (4) Conclusions: It was found that addition of 5% MgONPs can prevent the attachment of Streptococcusn mutans to flexible removable denture material. Additionally, the antibacterial effect was higher in the coated-samples compared to impregnated-samples. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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14 pages, 3750 KiB  
Article
Salicylic-Zinc Nanocomposites with Enhanced Antibacterial Activity
by Sang Gu Kang, Kyung Eun Lee, Mahendra Singh and Ramachandran Vinayagam
Coatings 2023, 13(5), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings13050941 - 17 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1242
Abstract
Numerous infectious diseases and microorganisms with high drug resistance have motivated researchers to develop nanocomposite particles as antimicrobial agents. Herein, we report on nanocomposites of salicylic acid (SA) and 5-sulfosalicylic acid (5-SSA) with zinc oxide (ZnO), namely SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO nanoparticles (NPs), with [...] Read more.
Numerous infectious diseases and microorganisms with high drug resistance have motivated researchers to develop nanocomposite particles as antimicrobial agents. Herein, we report on nanocomposites of salicylic acid (SA) and 5-sulfosalicylic acid (5-SSA) with zinc oxide (ZnO), namely SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO nanoparticles (NPs), with antibacterial and cytotoxic properties. Ultraviolet-visible and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy of the synthesized SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO NPs indicated the functionalization of ZnO with SA and 5-SSA. X-ray diffraction revealed the crystalline structures of the synthesized NPs. The zeta potentials of the SA-ZnO, 5-SSA-ZnO, and ZnO NPs were 1.42, −5.98, and −0.172, respectively. The SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO NPs were spherical. Besides, the results of the antimicrobial assay indicated a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the growth of Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus by SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO NPs (0.1%). Scanning electron microscopy of NP-treated bacteria revealed cell death. Moreover, SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO NPs did not exhibit substantial toxicity against human HaCaT cells even at a high concentration (200 µg/mL). Overall, SA-ZnO and 5-SSA-ZnO NPs exhibited antibiotic-mimicking activity against bacteria with no cytotoxicity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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17 pages, 2443 KiB  
Article
Surface Functionalization of Bamboo with Silver-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheets to Improve Hydrophobicity and Mold Resistance
by Dhivyabharathi Balakrishnan and Cheng-I Lee
Coatings 2022, 12(7), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12070980 - 11 Jul 2022
Viewed by 1917
Abstract
A natural polyphenolic compound was used to assemble nanocomposites. Owing to its stable bioactive properties, bamboo has earned significant attention in material science. Its high nutrient content and hydrophilicity makes bamboo more vulnerable to mold attacks and shortened shelf lives. To produce efficient, [...] Read more.
A natural polyphenolic compound was used to assemble nanocomposites. Owing to its stable bioactive properties, bamboo has earned significant attention in material science. Its high nutrient content and hydrophilicity makes bamboo more vulnerable to mold attacks and shortened shelf lives. To produce efficient, multipurpose, long-life bamboo products, a novel technique involving an immersion dry hydrothermal process was applied to impregnate the bamboo with polyphenol-assisted silver-reduced graphene oxide nanosheets. Curcumin (Cur), a natural polyphenol found in the rhizome of Curcuma longa, was used in the preparation of curcumin-enhanced silver-reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (Cur-AgrGONSs). The nanocomposites and nanocomposite-impregnated bamboo materials were examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. At the same time, a phytopathogen was isolated from infected bamboo products and identified by internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences. The nanocomposites effectively inhibited the growth of the isolated fungus. The mold resistance and moisture content of both the treated and untreated bamboo timbers were also examined to determine the efficiency of the prepared nanocomposite. The antifungal activity and hydrophobicity of the bamboo materials were significantly enhanced after the incorporation of curcumin-enriched silver-loaded reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (B@Cur-AgrGONSs). This research outcome confirms that the nanocomposite is a well-organized antimicrobial material for different advanced domains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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12 pages, 3899 KiB  
Article
Physicochemical Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Titanium/Shellac-Coated Hydroxyapatite Composites
by Widyanita Harwijayanti, Ubaidillah Ubaidillah and Joko Triyono
Coatings 2022, 12(5), 680; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12050680 - 16 May 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2043
Abstract
Titanium and hydroxyapatite are widely used as materials for implants. Titanium has good mechanical properties, good corrosion resistance, and a high modulus of elasticity. Hydroxyapatite has good biocompatibility, bioactivity, and significant osteoinductivity. In this study, powder metallurgy was used as a method to [...] Read more.
Titanium and hydroxyapatite are widely used as materials for implants. Titanium has good mechanical properties, good corrosion resistance, and a high modulus of elasticity. Hydroxyapatite has good biocompatibility, bioactivity, and significant osteoinductivity. In this study, powder metallurgy was used as a method to combine titanium and hydroxyapatite for use in implants. Shellac was used as a binder between ceramic and metal due to its lower melting point. The surface morphology and chemical properties were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), whereby the SEM revealed the appearance of micropores in the Ti-HA composites during the sintering process, and the EDX showed that the final product had high amounts of Ti and Ca and low P. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analyses were used to achieve the chemical characterization of composites, whereby a weak diffraction peak was observed in the XRD spectrum of Ti-HA composites, and the FTIR analysis confirmed that the composites had carbonate (CO3)2−, phosphate (PO4)3−, and hydroxyl (OH) groups. Oxygen was sufficient due to the sintering process being conducted in an air environment. The antibacterial activities were characterized using the disc diffusion method with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, whereby the prepared Ti-HA composites had a greater antibacterial effect on E. coli than on S. aureus. Finally, pH changes were observed during the 24 h incubation. The result showed that the Ti-HA composite did not contain chemical compounds that could cause harmful effects for humans and had good antibacterial activity against E. coli. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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17 pages, 11011 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of Novel Chitosan–Hydroxyapatite Nanostructured Thin Films for Biomedical Applications
by Carmen Steluta Ciobanu, Simona Liliana Iconaru, Daniela Predoi, Roxana-Doina Trușcă, Alina Mihaela Prodan, Andreea Groza, Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc and Mircea Beuran
Coatings 2021, 11(12), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11121561 - 19 Dec 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2610
Abstract
In this study, we develop chitosan–hydroxyapatite (CS–HAp) composite layers that were deposited on Si substrates in radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering discharge in argon gas. The composition and structure of CS–HAp composite layers were investigated by analytical techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared [...] Read more.
In this study, we develop chitosan–hydroxyapatite (CS–HAp) composite layers that were deposited on Si substrates in radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering discharge in argon gas. The composition and structure of CS–HAp composite layers were investigated by analytical techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), metallographic microscopy (MM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). On the other hand, in the present study the second order derivative of FT-IR–ATR spectra, for compositional analyses of CS–HAp, were used. The SEM, MM, and AFM data have shown the formation of CS–HAp composite layers. The surface of CS–HAp composite layers showed uniform growth (at an Ar gas working pressure of p = 2 × 10−3 mbar). The surface of the CS–HAp composites coatings became more nanostructured, becoming granular as the gas pressure increased from 5 × 10−3 to 1.2 × 10−2 mbar. However, our studies revealed that the surface morphology of the CS–HAp composite layers varies with the Ar gas working pressure. At the same time, optical properties are slightly influenced by Ar pressure. Their unique physicochemical properties make them suitable for various applications in the biomedical field, if we consider the already proven antimicrobial properties of chitosan. The antifungal properties and the capacity of the CS–HAp composite layers to inhibit the development of fungal biofilms were also demonstrated using the Candida albicans ATCC 10231 (C. albicans) fungal strain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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18 pages, 2351 KiB  
Article
A Supervised Machine-Learning Prediction of Textile’s Antimicrobial Capacity Coated with Nanomaterials
by Mahsa Mirzaei, Irini Furxhi, Finbarr Murphy and Martin Mullins
Coatings 2021, 11(12), 1532; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11121532 - 13 Dec 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2680
Abstract
Textile materials, due to their large surface area and moisture retention capacity, allow the growth of microorganisms, causing undesired effects on the textile and on the end-users. The textile industry employs nanomaterials (NMs)/composites and nanofibers to enhance textile features such as water/dirt-repellent, conductivity, [...] Read more.
Textile materials, due to their large surface area and moisture retention capacity, allow the growth of microorganisms, causing undesired effects on the textile and on the end-users. The textile industry employs nanomaterials (NMs)/composites and nanofibers to enhance textile features such as water/dirt-repellent, conductivity, antistatic properties, and enhanced antimicrobial properties. As a result, textiles with antimicrobial properties are an area of interest to both manufacturers and researchers. In this study, we present novel regression models that predict the antimicrobial activity of nano-textiles after several washes. Data were compiled following a literature review, and variables related to the final product, such as the experimental conditions of nano-coating (finishing technologies) and the type of fabric, the physicochemical (p-chem) properties of NMs, and exposure variables, were extracted manually. The random forest model successfully predicted the antimicrobial activity with encouraging results of up to 70% coefficient of determination. Attribute importance analysis revealed that the type of NM, shape, and method of application are the primary features affecting the antimicrobial capacity prediction. This tool helps scientists to predict the antimicrobial activity of nano-textiles based on p-chem properties and experimental conditions. In addition, the tool can be a helpful part of a wider framework, such as the prediction of products functionality embedded into a safe by design paradigm, where products’ toxicity is minimized, and functionality is maximized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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17 pages, 7692 KiB  
Article
Nitrogen and Bromide Co-Doped Hydroxyapatite Thin Films with Antimicrobial Properties
by Simona Liliana Iconaru, Carmen Steluta Ciobanu, Daniela Predoi, Mikael Motelica-Heino, Constantin Cătălin Negrilă, Monica Luminita Badea, Mihai Valentin Predoi, Carmen Mariana Chifiriuc and Marcela Popa
Coatings 2021, 11(12), 1505; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11121505 - 07 Dec 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2275
Abstract
Hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HAp), due to its high biocompatibility, is widely used as biomaterial. Doping with various ions of hydroxyapatite is performed to acquire properties as close as possible to the biological apatite present in bones [...] Read more.
Hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HAp), due to its high biocompatibility, is widely used as biomaterial. Doping with various ions of hydroxyapatite is performed to acquire properties as close as possible to the biological apatite present in bones and teeth. In this research the results of a study performed on thin films of hydroxyapatite co-doped with nitrogen and bromine (NBrHAp) are presented for the first time. The NBrHAp suspension was obtained by performing the adapted co-precipitation method using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The thin layers of NBrHAp were obtained by spin-coating. The stability of the NBrHAp suspension was examined by ultrasound measurements. The thin layers obtained by the spin-coating method were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy (OM), and metallographic microscopy (MM). The presence of nitrogen and bromine were highlighted by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to highlight the chemical status of nitrogen and bromine. In addition, the powder obtained from the NBrHAp suspension was analyzed by XRD. Moreover, the in vitro antimicrobial activity of the NBrHAp suspensions and coatings was investigated using the reference microbial strains Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. The results highlighted the successful obtainment of N and Br co-doped hydroxyapatite suspension for the first time by an adapted co-precipitation method. The obtained suspension was used to produce pure NBrHAp composite thin films with superior morphological properties. The NBrHAp suspensions and coatings exhibited in vitro antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal strains and revealed their good antimicrobial activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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18 pages, 2808 KiB  
Article
Data Shepherding in Nanotechnology: An Antimicrobial Functionality Data Capture Template
by Irini Furxhi, Alessio Varesano, Hesham Salman, Mahsa Mirzaei, Vittoria Battistello, Ivonne Tonani Tomasoni and Magda Blosi
Coatings 2021, 11(12), 1486; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11121486 - 02 Dec 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1837
Abstract
In this paper, we exhibit how to construct a template for capturing antimicrobial capacity data of nanomaterials or nanoenabled products. The template promotes the principles of making data scientifically findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable (FAIR), encouraging scientists to reuse it. The template construction [...] Read more.
In this paper, we exhibit how to construct a template for capturing antimicrobial capacity data of nanomaterials or nanoenabled products. The template promotes the principles of making data scientifically findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable (FAIR), encouraging scientists to reuse it. The template construction roadmap entails the following steps: (1) recognize appropriate stakeholders, (2) allocate surveys to collect a general explanation of the data that will be created, (3) comprehend each stakeholder’s requirements, (4) cooperating and using straightforward communication with the participants for the selection of the minimum data requirement reporting and (5) template layout and ontological annotation. We provide an annotated template for capturing antimicrobial data, increasing their interoperability while populating it with real measurements as an example. By applying the roadmap or by utilizing the template portrayed herein, in the case of a safe-by-design nanoproject (Anticipating Safety Issues at the Design of Nano Product Development (ASINA)), data creators of antimicrobial assessments can store the data using the FAIR approach. Furthermore, data shepherds and scientists can skip the lengthy template generation process and speed up the community’s progress on the FAIR route. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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13 pages, 5501 KiB  
Article
Bacterial Adhesion on Prosthetic and Orthotic Material Surfaces
by Anže Abram, Anamarija Zore, Urban Lipovž, Anita Košak, Maja Gavras, Žan Boltežar and Klemen Bohinc
Coatings 2021, 11(12), 1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11121469 - 29 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3206
Abstract
Prosthetic and orthotic parts, such as prosthetic socket and inner sides of orthoses, are often in contact with human skin, giving bacteria the capability to adhere and form biofilms on the materials of those parts which can further cause infections. The purpose of [...] Read more.
Prosthetic and orthotic parts, such as prosthetic socket and inner sides of orthoses, are often in contact with human skin, giving bacteria the capability to adhere and form biofilms on the materials of those parts which can further cause infections. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of bacterial adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis on twelve different prosthetic and orthotic material surfaces and how roughness, hydrophobicity, and surface charge of this materials affect the adhesion. The roughness, contact angle, zeta potential of material surfaces, and adhesion rate of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis were measured on all twelve prosthetic and orthotic materials, i.e., poly(methyl methacrylate), thermoplastic elastomer, three types of ethylene polyvinyl acetates (pure, with low-density polyethylene and with silver nanoparticles), silicone, closed-cell polyethylene foams with and without nanoparticles, thermo and natural cork, and artificial and natural leather. The greatest degree of adhesion was measured on both closed-cell polyethylene foams, followed by artificial thermo cork and leather. The lowest adhesion extent was observed on ethylene-vinyl acetate. The bacterial adhesion extent increases with the increasing surface roughness. Smaller deviations of this rule are the result of the surface’s hydrophobicity and charge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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19 pages, 5534 KiB  
Article
Fabrication and Physico-Chemical Properties of Antifungal Samarium Doped Hydroxyapatite Thin Films
by Carmen Steluta Ciobanu, Daniela Predoi, Patrick Chapon, Mihai Valentin Predoi and Simona Liliana Iconaru
Coatings 2021, 11(12), 1466; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11121466 - 29 Nov 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1944
Abstract
Samarium doped hydroxyapatite (Ca10−xSmx(PO4)6(OH)2, xSm = 0.5, 50SmHAp) is a very promising candidate to be used for different coatings in various dental and orthopedic implants. We report, for the first time, the [...] Read more.
Samarium doped hydroxyapatite (Ca10−xSmx(PO4)6(OH)2, xSm = 0.5, 50SmHAp) is a very promising candidate to be used for different coatings in various dental and orthopedic implants. We report, for the first time, the obtaining of 50SmHAp thin films by a cost-effective method, namely spin coating. Thin films of 50SmHAp on silicon substrate have been analyzed by various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Metallographic microscopy and Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GDOES). The stability of 50SmHAp suspension was evaluated by ultrasound measurements. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were also used to evaluate the 50SmHAp suspension. The antifungal activity of 50SmHAp suspension and coatings was assessed using Candida albicans ATCC 10231 fungal strain (C. albicans). The results of the antifungal assays depicted that both 50SmHAp suspensions and coatings were effective in inhibiting the development of C. albicans fungal cells, thus making them ideal candidates for the development of novel antifungal agents. The obtained results give new perspective for possible applications of 50SmHAp thin films in various medical applications due to their antifungal properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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13 pages, 3359 KiB  
Article
Biocompatibility and Antibiofilm Properties of Samarium Doped Hydroxyapatite Coatings: An In Vitro Study
by Ionela Cristina Nica, Marcela Popa, Luminita Marutescu, Anca Dinischiotu, Simona Liliana Iconaru, Steluta Carmen Ciobanu and Daniela Predoi
Coatings 2021, 11(10), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11101185 - 29 Sep 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2324
Abstract
The implant-related infection as a consequence of bacterial adherence and biofilm formation remains one of the main causes of implant failure. Grace to recent advances in materials science, their great mechanical properties and their biocompatibility (both in vitro and in vivo), antibacterial coatings [...] Read more.
The implant-related infection as a consequence of bacterial adherence and biofilm formation remains one of the main causes of implant failure. Grace to recent advances in materials science, their great mechanical properties and their biocompatibility (both in vitro and in vivo), antibacterial coatings have gradually become a primary component of the global strategy for preventing microbial colonization. In the present work, novel antibacterial coatings containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles doped with two different concentrations of samarium (5SmHAp and 10SmHAp) were obtained on Si substrates using the dip coating method. The morphology and physicochemical properties of these modified surfaces were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition, their antimicrobial effects and biocompatibility were assessed. The results showed a continuous and homogeneous layer, uniformly deposited, with no cracks or impurities. 5SmHAp and 10SmHAp surfaces exhibited significant antibiofilm activity and good biocompatibility without inducing cytotoxic effects in human gingival fibroblasts. All these findings indicate that samarium doped hydroxyapatite coatings could be great candidates for the development of new antimicrobial strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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20 pages, 5720 KiB  
Article
Potassium Plus Biopolymer Coating Controls Nitrogen Dynamics of Urea in Soil and Increases Wheat Production
by Qurat-ul-Ain Nezami, Ghulam Abbas Shah, Zeshan Hassan, Muhammad Bilal Khan Niazi, Maqsood Sadiq, Atiku Bran, Kamusiime Arthur, Zahid Iqbal, Imran Mahmood, Nadeem Ali and Muhammad Imtiaz Rashid
Coatings 2021, 11(7), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11070804 - 02 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2949
Abstract
The low nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) of commercial fertilizers is one of the main hurdles in higher crop production and reduction of fertilizer N losses to the environment. However, interactions between most the macronutrients could have synergistic outcomes that affect crop NUE. The [...] Read more.
The low nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) of commercial fertilizers is one of the main hurdles in higher crop production and reduction of fertilizer N losses to the environment. However, interactions between most the macronutrients could have synergistic outcomes that affect crop NUE. The coating of urea with macronutrients and biopolymers may control N release and synergistically impact its crop NUE. In this study, urea was coated with 3% of different polymers, combined with 5% potassium iodide (KI) (i) Gum Arabica (GA + KI), (ii) polyvinyl alcohol (PVA + KI), and (iii) gelatin (Gelatin + KI) to control its N release, leaching, and increase of wheat NUE. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed the successful coating of all KI and biopolymer combinations on urea granules. All coating combinations slowed down urea release in water and reduced its leaching from the soil, but the highest reduction in both parameters was observed with the GA + KI treatment, compared to the uncoated urea. After soil application, GA + KI decreased urea leaching by 26% than the uncoated urea in lysimeter. In the field, soil mineral N remained significantly high with the GA + KI and PVA + KI treatments at the wheat tillering, booting, grain filling and maturity stages, compared to the uncoated urea. However, K content was only high (28%) with the GA + KI treatment at final harvest. Likewise, microbial biomass N was only high with GA + KI at grain filling (20%) and maturity stages (24%) than the uncoated urea. Such synchronized N availability led to high wheat grain yield (28%), N (56%) uptake, and apparent N recovery (130%) with the GA + KI treatment, compared to the uncoated fertilizer. The increment in NUE with GA + KI could be due to the synergistic effect of K on N availability; therefore, we observed higher wheat yield and N utilization efficiency with this treatment. Hence, urea coated with macronutrient (K) plus biopolymer is recommended to improve wheat yield, NUE, and for reduction of environmental N losses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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12 pages, 5790 KiB  
Article
Multifunctional Nanocrystalline Cu–Ti Thin Films Enhance Survival and Induce Proliferation of Mouse Fibroblasts In Vitro
by Małgorzata Osękowska, Damian Wojcieszak, Danuta Kaczmarek, Michał Mazur, Agata Obstarczyk and Bogumiła Szponar
Coatings 2021, 11(3), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11030300 - 05 Mar 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2394
Abstract
This paper describes the effect of a nanocrystalline thin film based on copper and titanium on mouse fibroblast cells. Cu–Ti coatings were prepared using magnetron sputtering. In their composition was 25 at.% Cu and 75 at.% Ti. The goal of the study was [...] Read more.
This paper describes the effect of a nanocrystalline thin film based on copper and titanium on mouse fibroblast cells. Cu–Ti coatings were prepared using magnetron sputtering. In their composition was 25 at.% Cu and 75 at.% Ti. The goal of the study was to evaluate the effect of the material on the survival, migration, and proliferative capabilities of mouse L929 fibroblasts. The Cu25Ti75 material had no effect on the induction of cell death and did not disturb the cell cycle phase. The study showed a unique effect of a Cu25Ti75 thin film on mouse fibroblast cells, and the results concerning mitochondrial activity, cell proliferation, and migration proved that the material is nontoxic and shows proliferative properties in a wound healing test. The possible biomedical applications of the new nanocrystalline thin film biomaterial with multifunctional properties are described. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 2409 KiB  
Review
A Review on Graphene Based Materials and Their Antimicrobial Properties
by Srinivasarao Yaragalla, Karanath Balendran Bhavitha and Athanassia Athanassiou
Coatings 2021, 11(10), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings11101197 - 30 Sep 2021
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3737
Abstract
Graphene-based materials are found as excellent resources and employed as efficient anti-microbial agents, and they have been receiving significant attention from scientists and researchers in this regard. By giving special attention to recent applications of graphene-based materials, the current review is dedicated to [...] Read more.
Graphene-based materials are found as excellent resources and employed as efficient anti-microbial agents, and they have been receiving significant attention from scientists and researchers in this regard. By giving special attention to recent applications of graphene-based materials, the current review is dedicated to unveiling the antimicrobial properties of graphene and its hybrid composites and their preparation methods. Different factors like the number of layers, concentration, size, and shape of the antibacterial activity are thoroughly discussed. Graphene-based materials could damage the bacteria physically by directly contacting the cell membrane or wrapping the bacterial cell. It can also chemically react to bacteria through oxidative stress and charge transfer mechanisms. This review explains such mechanisms thoroughly and summarizes the antibacterial applications (wound bandages, coatings, food packaging, etc.) of graphene and its hybrid materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Antimicrobial Coatings)
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