Abstract: A hierarchical multiscale fibrous scaffold comprises multiple patterned layers of microfibers with one or more layers of nanofibers interleaved therebetween. In a method for making such scaffolds, electrodeposition or near-field electrospinning is used to deposit patterned layers of microfibers in a stack. Conventional electrospinning is used to deposit nanofibers on the layers of microfibers. The method may be used to tune the mechanical properties of the scaffold, facilitated by microfibers, and the biological features of the scaffold, facilitated by nanofibers. Scaffolds produced by such a process may have highly biomimetic architectures, and allow rapid cellular infiltration and sustainable cell growth for multiple tissue types.

Abstract: A multi-lumen catheter for use in a cavity having a main lumen surrounded by a wall, and at least one access lumen positioned in or on the wall, the one access lumen conveys a solution to the cavity and said main lumen. A method for treating or preventing fluid or accumulation in a body cavity including (a) aseptically inserting through an incision at an insertion site the catheter comprising a main drainage lumen surrounded by a wall and the one access lumen positioned in or on the wall, (b) securing the inserted catheter by closing the incision with a suture, (c) infusing a physiological solution through the one access lumen to dilute a drainage fluid, (d) connecting a distal end of a main drainage lumen of the catheter to a suction drainage system, and (e) applying a vacuum force to the suction drainage system to remove the diluted drainage fluid.