Supramolecular presentation of bioinstructive peptides on soft multilayered nanobiomaterials stimulates neurite outgrowth.

Peptide amphiphiles (PAs) have emerged as effective molecular building blocks for creating self-assembling nanobiomaterials for multiple biomedical applications. Herein, we report a straightforward approach to assemble soft bioinstructive platforms to recreate the native neural extracellular matrix (ECM) aiming for neuronal regeneration based on the electrostatic-driven supramolecular presentation of laminin-derived IKVAV-containing self-assembling PA (IKVAV-PA) on biocompatible multilayered nanoassemblies. Spectroscopic and microscopic techniques show that the co-assembly of positively charged low-molecular-weight IKVAV-PA with oppositely charged high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HA) triggers the formation of ordered ß-sheet structures denoting a one-dimensional nanofibrous network. The successful functionalization of poly(L-lysine)/HA layer-by-layer nanofilms with an outer positively charged layer of self-assembling IKVAV-PA is demonstrated by the quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring and the nanofibrous morphological properties revealed by atomic force microscopy. The bioactive ECM-mimetic supramolecular nanofilms promote the enhancement of primary neuronal cells' adhesion, viability, and morphology when compared to the PA without the IKVAV sequence and PA-free biopolymeric multilayered nanofilms, and stimulate neurite outgrowth. The nanofilms hold great promise as bioinstructive platforms for enabling the assembly of customized and robust multicomponent supramolecular biomaterials for neural tissue regeneration.

Effect of ascorbic acid and epidermal growth factor in a rat tibia defect

Purpose: Bone repair aims to restore the anatomical, biomechanical, and functional integrity of the affected structure. Here we study the effects of ascorbic acid (AA) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) applied in a single dose and in combination on the repair of a noncritical bone defect model. Methods: Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups: an intact G-1 control group, and three groups that underwent a noncritical bone defect in the right tibia: G-2 treated with AA, G-3 treated with EGF, and G-4 treated with AA in combination with EGF. After 21 days of treatment, rats were sacrificed, the tibias were dissected and a destructive biomechanical analysis of three-point flexion test was performed in a universal testing machine; the values of stiffness, resistance, maximum energy, and energy at maximum load were statistically compared. Results: G-3 and G-4 recovered the biomechanical properties of strength and stiffness of an intact tibia 3 weeks after their application. Not so the energy and energy at maximum load. For G-2, only the stiffness of an intact tibia was recovered. Conclusion: EGF and AA-EGF applied to a noncritical bone defect in the rat tibia favors the recovery of bone resistance and stiffness.

Efficiency analysis of commercial polymeric membranes for bone regeneration in rat cranial defects

Purpose: To evaluate the in vivo efficiency of commercial polymeric membranes for guided bone regeneration. Methods: Rat calvarial critical size defects was treated with LuminaCoat (LC), Surgitime PTFE (SP), GenDerm (GD), Pratix (PR), Techgraft (TG) or control (C-) and histomorphometric analysis determined the percentage of new bone, connective tissue and biomaterial at 1 or 3 months. Statistical analysis used ANOVA with Tukey's post-test for means at same experimental time and the paired Student's t test between the two periods, considering p < 0.05. Results: New bone at 1 month was higher for SP, TG and C-, at 3 months there were no differences, and between 1 and 3 months PR had greater increase growthing. Connective tissue at 1 month was higher for C-, at 3 months for PR, TG and C-, and between 1 and 3 months C- had sharp decline. Biomaterial at 1 month was higher for LC, in 3 months for SP and TG, and between 1 and 3 months, LC, GD and TG had more decreasing mean. Conclusion: SP had greater osteopromotive capacity and limitation of connective ingrowth, but did not exhibit degradation. PR and TG had favorable osteopromotion, LC less connective tissue and GD more accelerated biodegradation.

Analysis of the biocompatibility of a biocelulose and a poly L- lactic acid membrane

The use of selective barriers as resorbable membranes has become a routine clinical procedure for guided bone regeneration. Therefore, the production of membranes with a low inflammatory potential during their resorption process has become the goal of a considerable number of researches. Aim: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of poly (L- lactic acid) (PLLA) and biocelulose membranes (BC) inserted in the subcutaneous tissue on the dorsum of rats. Methods: Fifteen animals underwent surgical procedures for the insertion of 4 types of membranes: COL (Collagen membrane) ­ Control Group; BC (Biocellulose membrane); BCAg (Biocellulose membrane impregnated with Silver); PLLA (Poly (L-lactic acid) membrane). All membrane types were inserted into each animal. Animals were euthanized after 3, 7, and 15 days of the surgical procedure. Descriptive histological analyses were carried out to investigate host tissue reaction to membrane presence by assessing the anti-inflammatory process composition associated with the membrane resorption and the presence of foreign-body reaction or encapsulation. Results: The BC membranes showed a higher degree of inflammation and poor pattern of integration with the surrounding tissues than the PLLA and COL membranes. Conclusion: The PLLA and COL membranes present better biocompatibility than the BC membranes

Tunable PEG Hydrogels for Discerning Differential Tumor Cell Response to Biomechanical Cues.

Increased extracellular matrix (ECM) density in the tumor microenvironment has been shown to influence aspects of tumor progression such as proliferation and invasion. Increased matrix density means cells experience not only increased mechanical properties, but also a higher density of bioactive sites. Traditional in vitro ECM models like Matrigel and collagen do not allow these properties to be investigated independently. In this work, a poly(ethylene glycol)-based scaffold is used which modifies with integrin-binding sites for cell attachment and matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 sensitive sites for enzyme-mediated degradation. The polymer backbone density and binding site concentration are independently tuned and the effect each of these properties and their interaction have on the proliferation, invasion, and focal complex formation of two different tumor cell lines is evaluated. It is seen that the cell line of epithelial origin (Hs 578T, triple negative breast cancer) proliferates more, invades less, and forms more mature focal complexes in response to an increase in matrix adhesion sites. Conversely, the cell line of mesenchymal origin (HT1080, fibrosarcoma) proliferates more in 2D culture but less in 3D culture, invades less, and forms more mature focal complexes in response to an increase in matrix stiffness.

Keratose hydrogel for tissue regeneration and drug delivery.

Keratin (KRT), a natural fibrous structural protein, can be classified into two categories: "soft" cytosolic KRT that is primarily found in the epithelia tissues (e.g., skin, the inner lining of digestive tract) and "hard" KRT that is mainly found in the protective tissues (e.g., hair, horn). The latter is the predominant form of KRT widely used in biomedical research. The oxidized form of extracted KRT is exclusively denoted as keratose (KOS) while the reduced form of KRT is termed as kerateine (KRTN). KOS can be processed into various forms (e.g., hydrogel, films, fibers, and coatings) for different biomedical applications. KRT/KOS offers numerous advantages over other types of biomaterials, such as bioactivity, biocompatibility, degradability, immune/inflammatory privileges, mechanical resilience, chemical manipulability, and easy accessibility. As a result, KRT/KOS has attracted considerable attention and led to a large number of publications associated with this biomaterial over the past few decades; however, most (if not all) of the published review articles focus on KRT regarding its molecular structure, biochemical/biophysical properties, bioactivity, biocompatibility, drug/cell delivery, and in vivo transplantation, as well as its applications in biotechnical products and medical devices. Current progress that is directly associated with KOS applications in tissue regeneration and drug delivery appears an important topic that merits a commentary. To this end, the present review aims to summarize the current progress of KOS-associated biomedical applications, especially focusing on the in vitro and in vivo effects of KOS hydrogel on cultured cells and tissue regeneration following skin injury, skeletal muscle loss, peripheral nerve injury, and cardiac infarction.

Effects of Water and Chemical Solutions Ageing on the Physical, Mechanical, Thermal and Flammability Properties of Natural Fibre-Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites.

Biocomposites comprising a combination of natural fibres and bio-based polymers are good alternatives to those produced from synthetic components in terms of sustainability and environmental issues. However, it is well known that water or aqueous chemical solutions affect natural polymers/fibres more than the respective synthetic components. In this study the effects of water, salt water, acidic and alkali solutions ageing on water uptake, mechanical properties and flammability of natural fibre-reinforced polypropylene (PP) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites were compared. Jute, sisal and wool fibre- reinforced PP and PLA composites were prepared using a novel, patented nonwoven technology followed by the hot press method. The prepared composites were aged in water and chemical solutions for up to 3 week periods. Water absorption, flexural properties and the thermal and flammability performances of the composites were investigated before and after ageing each process. The effect of post-ageing drying on the retention of mechanical and flammability properties has also been studied. A linear relationship between irreversible flexural modulus reduction and water adsorption/desorption was observed. The aqueous chemical solutions caused further but minor effects in terms of moisture sorption and flexural modulus changes. PLA composites were affected more than the respective PP composites, because of their hydrolytic sensitivity. From thermal analytical results, these changes in PP composites could be attributed to ageing effects on fibres, whereas in PLA composite changes related to both those of fibres present and of the polymer. Ageing however, had no adverse effect on the flammability of the composites.

Biomateriales compuestos para restauración ósea obtenidos mediante tecnologías basadas en el uso del campo electromagnético / Composite biomaterials for bone restoration obtained by technologies based on the use of the electromagnetic

Introducción: El panorama demográfico en el mundo está cambiando. La población mayor de 60 años es el segmento que está creciendo más rápidamente y en el que las enfermedades del tejido óseo se presentan con más frecuencia, lo que aumenta la demanda de materiales y tecnologías apropiadas para restaurar estos tejidos. Objetivo: Analizar la información que se ha generado sobre el desarrollo de biomateriales compuestos para la reparación ósea, con énfasis en la identificación de las tecnologías emergentes basadas en el uso del campo electromagnético, sus aplicaciones y potencialidades. Métodos: Se consultaron trabajos científicos publicados en libros, revistas, patentes y tesis. El 80 por ciento de la documentación seleccionada pertenece al periodo 2010-2019. Análisis e integración de la información: Los métodos identificados fueron clasificados en cinco grupos: electrodeposición química, ya sea por electrólisis, electroforesis o síntesis electroforética in situ; electroporación; electrohilado; control magnético distal y bioestimulación electromagnética de células y tejidos, directamente o por la introducción de dispositivos que convierten la energía electromagnética en energía mecánica. Conclusiones: Estos métodos permiten la conformación de matrices celulares y acelulares compuestas y, además, dispositivos bioestimuladores con control de los parámetros de construcción y acción, de tal manera, que se logran procesos con mayor grado de reproducibilidad y a la medida de los requerimientos específicos para cada paciente(AU)

Introduction: The global demographic panorama is changing. The population aged over 60 years is the fastest growing segment, as well as the one where bone tissue diseases are most common, increasing the demand of appropriate materials and technologies to restore those tissues. Objective: To analyze the information so far generated about the development of composite biomaterials for bone repair, with an emphasis on the identification of emerging technologies based on the use of the electromagnetic field, its applications and potential. Methods: An analysis was performed of scientific papers published in books, journals, patents and theses. Of the documentation selected, 80 percent was from the period 2010-2019. Data analysis and integration: The methods identified were classified into five groups: chemical electrodeposition, be it by in situ electrophoretic synthesis, electrolysis or electrophoresis; electroporation; electrospinning; distal magnetic control and electromagnetic biostimulation of cells and tissues, either directly or incorporating devices which convert electromagnetic energy into mechanical energy. Conclusions: These methods permit the conformation of composite cellular and acellular matrices as well as biostimulator devices controlling construction and action parameters in such a way that the processes obtained display greater reproducibility and are more in keeping with the specific requirements of each patient(AU)

Novel vitreous substitutes: the next frontier in vitreoretinal surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: After removing the native vitreous during vitreoretinal surgery, an adequate substitute is required to ensure homeostasis of the eye. Current clinically used endotamponades (silicone oil, gases, semifluorinated alkanes) are effective in promoting retinal reattachment, but lead to complications such as emulsification, prolonged inflammation, blurred vision, raised intraocular pressure, cataract formation or the need for revision surgery. The aim of this review is to provide an update on novel vitreous substitutes with a focus on polymer-based systems. RECENT FINDINGS: Polymeric hydrogels provide favourable properties such as high water content, optical transparency, suitable refractive indices and densities, adjustable rheological properties, injectability, biocompatibility and their ability to tamponade the retina via viscosity and swelling pressure, comparable to the native human vitreous body. Here, vitreous replacement strategies can be divided into chemically or physically crosslinked hydrogel systems that are applied as preformed or in-situ gelling matrices. SUMMARY: Several hydrogel-based vitreous substitutes have already been positively evaluated in preclinical tests and have the potential to enter the clinical phase soon.

Efeito do envelhecimento hidrotérmico e mecânico na performance à fadiga de zircônias de alta translucidez / Effect of hydrothermal and mechanical aging on the fatigue performance of high-translucency zirconias

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a resistência à fadiga e ciclos até a falha de 3 zircônias odontológicas após envelhecimento hidrotérmico isolado e um novo protocolo alternado. Discos de zircônia "Y"Z T (VITA), INCORIS "T"ZI (Dentsply Sirona) e "K"ATANA UTML (Noritake Kuraray) (N=135) ­ 1ª, 2ª e 3ª gerações, respectivamente ­, foram divididos em 9 grupos (n=15), com 3 tratamentos para cada zircônia: CF ­ Controle, somente com fadiga mecânica; EF ­ Envelhecido em reator hidrotérmico a 134 ºC por 20 h + Fadiga; EFA: 4 passos de envelhecimentos de 5h alternados com fadiga. O teste de fadiga em flexão biaxial foi realizado com configuração de pistão sob 3 esferas, utilizando o método step-stress (carga inicial: 100 Mpa, step: 50 MPa/10.000 ciclos, frequência: 20 Hz). Os dados foram analisados através de teste Kaplan-Meir e Mantel-Cox com α=0,05, além da análise de Weibull. Discos fraturados foram analisados em estereomicroscópio, Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) e Difratômetro de Raios-X (DRX). O envelhecimento isolado com fadiga aumentou a resistência do grupo TEF (810 ± 76 MPa), enquanto diminuiu a do YEF (516 ± 38 MPa), o protocolo alternado aumentou a resistência apenas para a YZ T (730 ± 59 MPa). A KATANA UMTL não apresentou diferenças para ambos os tratamentos. Igualmente, foi a única a não sofrer transformação de fase T-M. O grupo TEF apresentou maior taxa sobrevivência à fadiga (147,000.00 ciclos). A origem de fratura para todos os espécimes deu-se no lado de tração em defeitos pré-existentes. Zircônias de 2ª geração possuem melhor comportamento mecânico e longevidade pós-envelhecimento e fadiga. Embora seja menos resistente, a KATANA UTML não sofreu degradação

This study aimed to evaluate the fatigue strength and cycles for failure of 3 dental zirconias after isolated and a novel hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue cycling aging protocol. "Y"Z T (VITA), INCORIS "T"ZI (Dentsply Sirona) and "K"ATANA UTML (Noritake Kuraray) zirconia discs (N=135), were divided into 9 groups (n=15), according to 3 proposed treatments for each zirconia: CF (control ­ only mechanical fatigue cycling); AF (aging in hydrothermal reactor at 134°C for 20 h + mechanical fatigue cycling ); AFA (Alternating protocol: 4 steps of 5 h of hydrothermal aging intercalated with mechanical fatigue cycling). Mechanical fatigue aging was performed according to the step stress approach through biaxial flexural setup (piston-on-3-balls, initial strength: 100 MPa, step: 50 MPa/ci000, frequency: 20 Hz) until failure. Data were analyzed using KaplanMeier and Mantel-Cox test (α=0.05), in addition to Weibull analysis. Fractured discs were analyzed in stereomicroscope, Scanning Electron Microscopy and XRay Diffraction. Continuous hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue cycling decreased the fatigue strength of YAF group (516 ± 38 MPa), while the alternating protocol increased it (730 ± 59 MPa). KATANA UTML showed no differences for both treatments and did not undergo T-M phase transformation. The TAF group showed the highest fatigue strength (810 ± 76 MPa) and cycles for failure (147,000.00 cycles). The fracture origin for all specimens was on the tensile side in pre-existing defects. INCORIS TZI zirconia have higher fatigue strength after hydrothermal and mechanical fatigue aging. Although less resistant, KATANA UTML did not suffer chemical degradation

Biocompatibilidade do gel de quitosana associado ao glicerol fosfato na reparação de defeitos ósseos induzidos experimentalmente no rádio de coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / [Biocompatibility of chitosan gel associated with glycerol phosphate for the healing of experimentally induced radial defects in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)]

A engenharia de tecidos caracteriza-se como ciência interdisciplinar, a qual vem desenvolvendo biomateriais para a regeneração do tecido ósseo no âmbito das medicinas humana e veterinária. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a regeneração óssea obtida da aplicação do hidrogel de quitosana associado ao glicerol fosfato em falha óssea experimentalmente induzida no rádio de coelhos. Foram utilizados 15 coelhos adultos, distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, representados por cada um dos rádios de cada animal, sendo um grupo tratado com hidrogel de quitosana associado ao glicerol fosfato (grupo biomaterial - GB) e um grupo que não recebeu tratamento com o biomaterial (grupo controle - GC). Os animais foram avaliados radiograficamente, por densitometria óptica e análise histológica, nos períodos 30, 60 e 90 dias pós-operatórios. Houve superioridade estatística na média geral das avaliações radiográficas do GB (2,33±0,48) sobre o GC (1,77±0,06). As médias gerais de avaliação densitométrica do GB foram superiores às do GC, sendo 6,207±1,374 e 5,71±1,512, respectivamente. A avaliação histopatológica do GB foi superior à do GC nos períodos de 30, 60 e 90 dias. Assim, é possível afirmar que o hidrogel de quitosana constitui biomaterial de características desejáveis, promovendo consolidação óssea mais rápida e eficiente, sem causar reações adversas.(AU)

Tissue engineering is an interdisciplinary science that has been developing biomaterials for bone regeneration in medicine and veterinary medicine, following an imminent need. The aim of this study was to evaluate bone regeneration after use of chitosan hydrogel associated with glycerol phosphate in experimentally induced bone gap in the radius of rabbits. Fifteen adult rabbits were randomly distributed in two experimental groups, represented by each radius of every single animal. The animals in the Biomaterial Group (GB) were treated with a glycerol phosphate-associated chitosan hydrogel and in the Control Group (GC) they received no treatment with the biomaterial. The animals were evaluated clinically, radiographically, histologically and by optic densitometry at 30, 60 and 90 days postoperatively. There was statistical superiority in the general average of the radiographic estimates of GB (2.33 ± 0.48) over the CG (1.77 ± 0.06). The general averages of GB densitometric evaluation were higher than the CG, being 6.207 ± 1.374 and 5.71 ± 1.512, respectively. Histopathological evaluation of GB was superior to CG in periods of 30, 60 and 90 days. Chitosan hydrogel constitutes a biomaterial of desired characteristics, promoting faster and more efficient bone repair when compared to GC.(AU)

Application of rare earth-doped nanoparticles in biological imaging and tumor treatment.

Rare earth-doped nanoparticles have been widely used in disease diagnosis, drug delivery, tumor therapy, and bioimaging. Among various bioimaging methods, the fluorescence imaging technology based on the rare earth-doped nanoparticles can visually display the cell activity and lesion evolution in living animals, which is a powerful tool in biological technology and has being widely applied in medical and biological fields. Especially in the band of near infrared (700-1700 nm), the emissions show the characteristics of deep penetration due to low absorption, low photon scattering, and low autofluorescence interference. Furthermore, the rare earth-doped nanoparticles can be endowed with the water solubility, biocompatibility, drug-loading ability, and the targeting ability for different tumors by surface functionalization. This confirms its potential in the cancer diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we summarized the recent progress in the application of rare earth-doped nanoparticles in the field of bioimaging and tumor treatment. The luminescent mechanism, properties, and structure design were also discussed.

Electrospun novel nanocomposite comprising polyurethane integrated with ayurveda amla oil for bone tissue engineering.

Ayurveda oil contains numerous source of biological constituents which plays an important role in reducing the pain relief caused during bone fracture. The aim of the study is to fabricate the polyurethane (PU) scaffold for bone tissue engineering added with ayurveda amla oil using electrospinning technique. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that the fabricated nanocomposites showed reduced fiber diameter (758 ± 185.46 nm) than the pristine PU (890 ± 116.91 nm). Fourier Infrared Analysis (FTIR) revealed the existence of amla oil in the PU matrix by hydrogen bond formation. The contact angle results revealed the decreased wettability (116° ± 1.528) of the prepared nanocomposites compared to the pure PU (100° ± 0.5774). The incorporation of amla oil into the PU matrix improved the surface roughness. Further, the coagulation assay indicated that the addition of amla oil into PU delayed the blood clotting times and exhibited less toxic to red blood cells. Hence, the fabricated nanocomposites showed enhanced physicochemical and better blood compatibility parameters which may serve as a potential candidate for bone tissue engineering.

Computational fluid dynamics simulation from microCT stacks of commercial biomaterials usable for bone grafting.

Granules of calcium/phosphate biomaterials are used to fill small bone defects in oral and maxilla-facial surgery. Granules of natural (e.g., trabecular bone, coral) or synthetic biomaterials are provided by industry. Small granules can also form of putty. The 3D geometry of granules creates a macroporosity allowing invasion of vascular and bone cells when pores are larger than 300 µm. We analyzed the 3D-porosity of 11 different stacks of biomaterials: Osteopure®, CopiOs®, Bio-Oss®, TCP Dental HP®, KeraOs®, TCH®, Biocoral®, EthOss® and Nanostim®. For each granular biomaterial, two sizes of granules were analyzed: small and large. Microcomputed tomography (microCT) determined porosity and microarchitectural characteristics of the biomaterials stacks. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a simulation method, was used on the stacks of microCT images. Stacks of small granules had a much lower permeation and fluid velocity than large granules and the hydraulic tortuosity was increased. Significant correlations were observed between microarchitecture parameters (porosity, mean pore diameter and specific surface) and fluid dynamic parameters. The two putties were associated with low (or absence of) porosity and permeation study revealed a very low (or absence) of flow rate. Stacks of granules represent 3D scaffolds resembling trabecular bone with an interconnected porous microarchitecture. Small granules create pores less than 300 µm in diameter; this induces a low fluid flow rate. CFD simulates the accessibility of body fluids and progenitor cells and confirms that it is depending on the shape and 3D arrangements of granules within a stack. Large granules must be preferred to putties and small granules.

Biocompatibility analysis of Borassus flabellifer biomass-derived nanofibrillated cellulose.

The increased awareness about environment conservation and sustainable progress has encouraged the use of agricultural byproducts. Here, we investigated Borassus flabellifer leaf stalk residues as a sustainable precursor for nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) production by sequential process. Alkali pretreatment and bleaching removed hemicellulose and lignin from B. flabellifer leaf stalk. Transmission electron microscopy images revealed the diameter and length of fibrillated cellulose nanostructure as 12-27 nm and 0.5-1 µm, respectively. NFC biocompatibility was analyzed in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) using cell viability assay, cellular and nuclear morphology analysis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assessment, and gene expression analysis. NFC showed no significant effect on hMSC viability at high concentration and failed to alter nuclear architecture and MMP. Biocompatibility assessment suggests that NFC is non-toxic and NFC-based films may enhance the adhesion and proliferation of hMSCs, highlighting its potential role as a suitable matrix for stem cell differentiation and biomedical applications.

Biodegradable Inorganic Nanoparticles for Cancer Theranostics: Insights into the Degradation Behavior.

Inorganic nanoparticles as a versatile nanoplatform have been broadly applied in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers due to their inherent superior physicochemical properties (including magnetic, thermal, optical, and catalytic performance) and excellent functions (e.g., imaging, targeted delivery, and controlled release of drugs) through surface functional modification or ingredient dopant. However, in practical biological applications, inorganic nanomaterials are relatively difficult to degrade and excrete, which induces a long residence time in living organisms and thus may cause adverse effects, such as inflammation and tissue cysts. Therefore, the development of biodegradable inorganic nanomaterials is of great significance for their biomedical application. This Review will focus on the recent advances of degradable inorganic nanoparticles for cancer theranostics with highlight on the degradation mechanism, aiming to offer an in-depth understanding of degradation behavior and related biomedical applications. Finally, key challenges and guidelines will be discussed to explore biodegradable inorganic nanomaterials with minimized toxicity issues, facilitating their potential clinical translation in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

3D bioprinting via an in situ crosslinking technique towards engineering cartilage tissue.

3D bioprinting is a promising approach for the repair of cartilage tissue after damage due to injury or disease; however, the design of 3D printed scaffolds has been limited by the availability of bioinks with requisite printability, cytocompatibility, and bioactivity. To address this, we developed an approach termed in situ crosslinking that permits the printing of non-viscous, photocrosslinkable bioinks via the direct-curing of the bioink with light through a photopermeable capillary prior to deposition. Using a norbornene-modified hyaluronic acid (NorHA) macromer as a representative bioink and our understanding of thiol-ene curing kinetics with visible light, we varied the printing parameters (e.g., capillary length, flow rate, light intensity) to identify printing conditions that were optimal for the ink. The printing process was cytocompatible, with high cell viability and homogenous distribution of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) observed throughout printed constructs. Over 56 days of culture in chondrogenic media, printed constructs increased in compressive moduli, biochemical content (i.e., sulfated glycosaminoglycans, collagen), and histological staining of matrix associated with cartilage tissue. This generalizable printing approach may be used towards the repair of focal defects in articular cartilage or broadly towards widespread biomedical applications across a range of photocrosslinkable bioinks that can now be printed.

Análise da resistência de placas ósseas de acrílico fabricadas a laser quando submetidas a diferentes forças que agem sobre o foco de fratura / Analysis of the resistance of laser-made acrylic bone plates when subjected to different forces acting on the fracture focus

Objetivou-se com este trabalho analisar a resistência de placas ósseas de acrílico, confeccionadas com cortadora a laser CO2, quando submetidas às forças que agem sobre o foco de fratura. Foram utilizados 40 fêmures de ovinos (Ovis aries) e confeccionadas 40 placas de acrílico, os quais foram avaliados em grupos: grupo OP - foram avaliados 20 ossos fraturados reduzidos com 20 placas de acrílico; grupo PS - foram avaliadas 20 placas de acrílico; e grupo OS - foram avaliados 20 ossos íntegros e frescos. Todos foram submetidos a ensaios mecânicos de compressão, flexão, torção e tração, em máquina de ensaios universal EMIC® 10000. Os testes eram interrompidos quando havia fratura do corpo de prova. O grupo PS suportou carga de compressão significativamente superior aos demais grupos OP e OS (13.255±290N, 4.932±827N e 8.681±303N, respectivamente). Já em relação à prova de flexão, o grupo OS foi significativamente mais resistente, com média de 2.698±305N, em relação aos grupos OP e PS, que obtiveram 1.315±92N e 1.537±37N, respectivamente. Conclui-se que as placas de acrílico usinadas a laser apresentam resistência mecânica inferior ao fêmur de ovinos, entretanto, devido à resistência exibida nos testes, demonstraram potencial para serem implantadas em ossos com menor demanda de carga.(AU)

The objective of this work was to analyze the resistance of acrylic bone plates, made with CO 2 laser cutter, when subjected to the forces acting on the fracture focus. Forty ovine femurs (Ovis aries) were used and 40 acrylic plates were prepared and evaluated in groups: In the OP Group, 20 fractured bones reduced with 20 acrylic plates were evaluated; in the PS Group, 20 acrylic plates were evaluated; and in the OS Group 20 intact and fresh bones were evaluated. All were submitted to mechanical tests of compression, bending, twisting and traction in an EMIC® 10000 universal testing machine. The tests were interrupted when the body of proof was fractured. The PS group supported a significantly higher compression load than the other OP and OS groups (13,255±290 N, 4,932±827 N and 8,681±303 N, respectively). Regarding the flexural test, the OS group was significantly more resistant, with a mean of 2,698±305 N, compared to the groups OP and PS that obtained 1,315±92 N and 1,537±37 N respectively. It is concluded that the laser-machined acrylic plates have inferior mechanical resistance to the femur of the ovine, however, due to the presented resistance, it shows potential to be implanted in bones with lower load demand.(AU)

Nitrogen and Sulfur Doped Carbon Dots from Amino Acids for Potential Biomedical Applications.

Nitrogen (N-) and sulfur (S-) doped carbon dots (CDs) were synthesized in a single step in a few min, 1-4 min via microwave technique from five different types of amino acids viz. Arginine (A), Lysine (L), Histidine (H), Cysteine (C), and Methionine (M). These amino acid derived N- and/or S- doped CDs were found to be in spherical shapes with 5-20 nm particle size range determined by Transition Electron Microscope (TEM) images and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements. Thermal degradation, functional groups, and surface potential of the CDs were determined by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), FT-IR spectroscopy, and zeta potential measurements, respectively. Although the zeta potential value of Cysteine derived CD (C-CD) was measured as -7.45±1.32 mV, the zeta potential values of A-CD, L-CD, H-CD, and M-CD particles were measured as +2.84±0.67, +2.61±1.0, +4.10±1.50 and+2.20±0.60 mV, respectively. Amongst the CDs, C- CDs was found to possess the highest quantum yield, 89%. Moreover, the blood compatibility test of CDs, determined with hemolysis and blood clotting tests was shown that CDs at 0.25 mg/mL concentration, CDs has less than 5% hemolysis ratio and higher than 50% blood clotting indexes. Furthermore, A-CD was modified with polyethyleneimine (PEI) and was found that the zeta potential values was increased to +34.41±4.17 mV (from +2.84±0.67 mV) inducing antimicrobial capability to these materials. Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) of A-CD dots was found as 2.5 mg/mL whereas the PEI modified A-CDs, A-CD-PEI was found as 1 mg/mL against Escherichia coli ATCC 8739 (gram -) and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 (gram +) bacteria strains signifying the tunability of CDs.

Elaboração, desenvolvimento e instalação do primeiro banco de pele animal no Brasil para o tratamento de queimaduras e feridas / Elaboration, development, and installation of the first animal skin bank in Brazil for the treatment of burns and wounds

Introdução: A produção e a distribuição de pele humana pelos Bancos de Pele do Brasil é insuficiente para atender a demanda do país, suprindo menos de 1% da necessidade para tratar as vítimas de queimaduras. O objetivo do trabalho foi apresentar a elaboração e o desenvolvimento da implantação do primeiro Banco de Pele Animal do Brasil para tratamento da queimadura. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo metodológico. O Banco de Pele Animal Aquático foi elaborado, desenvolvido e instalado a partir do desenvolvimento do processamento de pele da tilápia, da revisão sistemática de estudos referentes a banco de pele animal, de visitas à pscicultura em Jaguaribara-CE, da visita técnica aos bancos de pele humana no Brasil, de consulta técnica e de treinamento no Banco de Pele de Recife, da observação de todas as fases de processamento da pele de tilápia e da identificação da estrutura física da área onde ocorrem todos os processos. Resultados: Além da produção e da distribuição da pele da tilápia para os estudos em vítima de queimaduras, o banco está processando mais de 5000 peles de tilápia e encontra-se em fase de distribuição desta pele para estudos multicêntricos em outros estados e outras especialidades, que desenvolvem pesquisas nas áreas de ginecologia, ortopedia, endoscopia, estomaterapia, cirurgia vascular, odontologia e veterinária. Conclusão: este trabalho possibilitou a elaboração, o desenvolvimento e a implementação do primeiro Banco de Pele Animal do país e o primeiro Banco de Pele Aquática do mundo.

Introduction: The production and distribution of human skin by Brazilian skin banks is insufficient to meet the country's demand, supplying less than 1% of the need for treating burn victims. The objective of this work was to present the elaboration and development of the first animal skin bank of Brazil for the treatment of burns. Methods: This methodological study elaborated, developed, and installed The Aquatic Animal Skin Bank in terms of the development of tilapia skin processing after a systematic review of studies referring to animal skin banks based on visits to the pisciculture center in Jaguaribara-CE, technical visits to human skin banks in Brazil, technical consultation and training in the Recife Skin Bank, the observation of all phases of tilapia skin processing, and the identification of the physical structure of the area where the processes occur. Results: In addition to the production and distribution of tilapia skin for studies on burn victims, the bank is processing more than 5000 tilapia skin samples and is in the distribution phase of this skin for multicentric studies in other states and specialties including gynecology, orthopedics, endoscopy, stomatherapy, vascular surgery, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. Conclusion: This work enabled the elaboration, development, and implementation of Brazil's first animal skin bank and the world's first aquatic skin bank.