Purple maize arabinoxylan could protect antioxidant compounds during digestion.

Purple maize is a pigmented variety rich in antioxidants. Arabinoxylans (AX) are prebiotic compounds also found in the grain wall that can form gels. Recently, antioxidants have extensively been studied for their beneficial effects. However, these bioactive compounds do not easily reach the intestine in a stable form. These gels can protect certain compounds during in vitro digestion. This work aimed to extract the AX and simultaneously obtain the antioxidant compounds present in the external walls of the purple maize grain to produce gels with 2% and 4% AX to apply an in vitro digestion method. Popcorn maize (unpigmented) was used as a control. The amount of ferulic acid, polyphenols, and anthocyanins, and their antioxidative activity, were measured at in vitro digestion of the gels. This work highlights the ability of AX gels to enhance the potential bioavailability of antioxidant compounds including anthocyanins from purple maize after digestion.

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Wild and Cultivated Amaranth Species Seeds by 2-DE and ESI-MS/MS.

Amaranth is a promising staple food that produces seeds with excellent nutritional quality. Although cultivated species intended for grain production have interesting agronomic traits, relatively little is known about wild species, which can prosper in diverse environments and could be a rich genetic source for crop improvement. This work focuses on the proteomic comparison between the seeds of wild and cultivated amaranth species using polarity-based protein extraction and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) showed changes in granule-bound starch synthases and a wide range of 11S globulin isoforms. The electrophoretic profile of these proteins suggests that they may contain significant phosphorylation as post-translational modifications (PTMs), which were confirmed via immunodetection. These PTMs may impact the physicochemical functionality of storage proteins, with potential implications for seed agronomic traits and food system applications. Low-abundant DAPs with highly variable accumulation patterns are also discussed; these were involved in diverse molecular processes, such as genic regulation, lipid storage, and stress response.

Exploring the Antibacterial and Antiparasitic Activity of Phenylaminonaphthoquinones-Green Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Computational Study.

Organic compounds with antibacterial and antiparasitic properties are gaining significance for biomedical applications. This study focuses on the solvent-free synthesis (green synthesis) of 1,4-naphthoquinone or 2,3-dichloro-1,4-naphthoquinone with different phenylamines using silica gel as an acid solid support. The study also includes in silico PASS predictions and the discovery of antibacterial and antiparasitic properties of phenylaminonaphthoquinone derivatives 1-12, which can be further applied in drug discovery and development. These activities were discussed in terms of molecular descriptors such as hydrophobicity, molar refractivity, and half-wave potentials. The in vitro antimicrobial potential of the synthesized compounds 1-12 was evaluated against a panel of six bacterial strains (three Gram-positive: Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, and Enterococcus faecalis; and three Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Klebsiella pneumoniae). Six compounds (1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 11) showed better activity toward S. aureus with MIC values between 3.2 and 5.7 µg/mL compared to cefazolin (MIC = 4.2 µg/mL) and cefotaxime (MIC = 8.9 µg/mL), two cephalosporin antibiotics. Regarding in vitro antiplasmodial activity, compounds 1 and 3 were the most active against the Plasmodium falciparum strain 3D7 (chloroquine-sensitive), displaying IC50 values of 0.16 and 0.0049 µg/mL, respectively, compared to chloroquine (0.33 µg/mL). In strain FCR-3 (chloroquine-resistant), most of the compounds showed good activity, with compounds 3 (0.12 µg/mL) and 11 (0.55 µg/mL) being particularly noteworthy. Additionally, docking studies were used to better rationalize the action and prediction of the binding modes of these compounds. Finally, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) predictions were performed.

Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)/Poly(Acrylic Acid) Gel Polymer Electrolyte Modified with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and SiO2 Nanospheres to Increase Rechargeability of Zn-Air Batteries.

Zn-air batteries (ZABs) are a promising technology; however, their commercialization is limited by challenges, including those occurring in the electrolyte, and thus, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) and hydrogels have emerged as substitutes for traditional aqueous electrolytes. In this work, PVA/PAA membranes were synthesized by the solvent casting method and soaked in 6 M KOH to act as GPEs. The thickness of the membrane was modified (50, 100, and 150 µm), and after determining the best thickness, the membrane was modified with synthesized SiO2 nanospheres and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). SEM micrographs revealed that the CNTs displayed lengths of tens of micrometers, having a narrow diameter (95 ± 7 nm). In addition, SEM revealed that the SiO2 nanospheres had homogeneous shapes with sizes of 110 ± 10 nm. Physicochemical experiments revealed that SiO2 incorporation at 5 wt.% increased the water uptake of the PVA/PAA membrane from 465% to 525% and the ionic conductivity to 170 mS cm-1. The further addition of 0.5 wt.% CNTs did not impact the water uptake but it promoted a porous structure, increasing the power density and the stability, showing three-times-higher rechargeability than the ZAB operated with the PVA/PAA GPE.

Effects of Temperature and Time on the Denaturation of Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1 and Cytokines from Bovine Platelet-Rich Gel Supernatants.

There is a lack of information about transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-ß1) and cytokines contained in pure platelet-rich plasma (P-PRP) and release from pure-platelet-rich gel supernatants (P-PRGS) might be affected by the temperature and time factors; P-PRP from 6 heifers was activated with calcium gluconate. Thereafter, P-PRG and their supernatants (P-PRGS) were maintained at -80, -20, 4, 21, and 37 °C and collected at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 96, 144, 192, 240, and 280 h for subsequent determination of TGF-ß1, tumor necrosis factor alfa (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-2, and IL-6; TGF-ß1 concentrations were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in PRGS maintained at 21 and 37 °C when compared to PRGS maintained at 4, -20, and -80 °C; PRGS TNF-α concentrations were not influenced by temperature and time factors. However, PRGS maintained at 4 °C showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher concentrations when compared to PRGS maintained at -20, and -80 °C at 144, and 192 h. IL-6 concentrations were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in PRGS stored at -20, and -80 over the first 48 h and at 10 days when compared to PRGS stored at 4, 21, and 37 °C. These results could suggest that P-PRP/P-PRGS could be maintained and well preserved for at least 12 days at room temperature for clinical use in bovine therapeutic massive protocols.

Characterization and Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity of Pregabalin Gels for Oral Application.

The efficacy of pregabalin in pain treatment has led to the search for new formulations for its use through different routes of administration. This study aimed to prepare, characterize, and evaluate the cytotoxicity of pregabalin (PG) gels for topical application in the oral cavity. Solutions with three different concentrations of PG were prepared and added to a 1.0% carbopol gel base. Thermal analyses (TG and DSC) and FTIR were performed on the gel and pure pregabalin. Stability (preliminary and accelerated) and rheology studies were also conducted on the gels. Cytotoxicity was evaluated in human gingival fibroblasts in the following groups: WG (1.0% carbopol gel base), PG2G (2.0% pregabalin gel), PG5G (5.0% pregabalin gel), and PG10G (10% pregabalin gel). A transparent and homogeneous gel with a pH of 6 was obtained. The formulations showed stability, and the different drug concentrations did not influence the product's characteristics. None of the tested groups showed cytotoxicity for the analyzed cells. The pregabalin gels exhibited favorable and non-toxic characteristics for human gingival fibroblasts in vitro. Therefore, this product may be a promising therapeutic alternative for topical application in the oral mucosa.

Feasibility of new polymeric matrices in the production of ferrous sulphate dosimeters.

External beam radiotherapy is a treatment modality that employs high doses for curative or palliative purposes. Safety in such treatments, particularly with high-precision equipment, necessitates strict adherence to quality control protocols to ensure the efficacy of oncological treatments. In this context, chemical dosimeters, particularly the Fricke gel, have emerged as valuable tools for quantitatively analysing absorbed radiation doses. These dosimeters can be applied both as tissue-equivalent phantoms and as radiation detectors in radiotherapy centers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of new gelling matrices, comprising common materials such as CMC, GGU, and PVA, for producing ferrous sulphate dosimeters aimed at the relative quantification of radiation dose. A rheological study was conducted for different Fricke gel dosimetric formulations. Initially, the performance of these dosimeters, produced at various gel concentrations, was evaluated in terms of their consistency at room temperature. This was achieved through the straightforward process of humidification the gels with glycerine. These matrices consist of both natural and synthetic polymers that are readily accessible, easy to handle, and can be easily incorporated into the acidic ferrous sulphate solution. Parameters such as the influence of gelling matrix concentration, linearity, and stability were assessed and correlated with those previously investigated for Fricke gel produced with bloom 300 pig skin gelatine (GEL). Ferrous sulphate dosimeters fabricated with sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), guar gum (GGU), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) exhibited a coefficient of variation of less than 1% relative to the dose response evaluated in this study. By using readily available and easily manageable materials, it is possible to replicate dosimeters with a favourable dosimetric response for high-dose measurements.

Cu2O Nanoparticles as Nanocarriers and Its Antibacterial Efficacy.

In this study, Cu2O nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol-gel technique and subsequently functionalized with extracts from plants of the Rauvolfioideae subfamily and citrus fruits. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, XRD, BET, SEM, and TEM, were employed to evaluate the structural and surface properties of the synthesized nanoparticles. The results demonstrated that both functionalized Cu2O nanoparticles exhibit mesoporous structures, as confirmed by nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms and the pore size distribution analysis. The green extract functionalized nanoparticles displayed a more uniform pore size distribution compared to those functionalized with the orange extract. The study underscores the potential of these functionalized Cu2O nanoparticles for applications in drug delivery, catalysis, and adsorption processes, highlighting the influence of the functionalization method on their textural properties and performance in antibacterial efficacy.

Direct Determination of POSS Cage Structure in a Self-Assembled Ionic Bridged Silsesquioxane by Using the Total Pair Distribution Function G(r) and Density Functional Theory.

In the present study, both short-range and long-range structural features of an ionic bridged silsesquioxane, specifically one containing the 1,4-diazoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane chloride group (ISSQ), were elucidated. This ionic silsesquioxane was synthesized via direct polycondensation of a bridged organosilane precursor, without any additional functionalization step. Si-O-Si cage structures typical of Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxanes (POSS) were identified. The average interatomic distances of the POSS cages, including the open T8 cage and the T12 cage for the ISSQ, as well as the T8 cage for a commercially available pendant POSS were determined. It is the first report of the interatomic distance determination of POSS cage; achieved by using total pair distribution function G(r) values obtained through high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The application of DFT was crucial for accurately assigning X-ray peaks and verifying structural details. Furthermore, the analysis of X-ray diffraction peaks and the examination of crystalline domains via transmission electron microscopy enabled the proposal of a hexagonal arrangement of Si-O-Si cages over long ranges within the ionic bridged silsesquioxane. This proposed arrangement highlights a distinctive structural organization that could impact the material's properties and applications.

The Development and Pre-Clinical Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy of a New Transdermal Ureasil-Polyether Hybrid Matrix Loaded with Flavonoid-Rich Annona muricata Leaf Extract.

This study aimed to develop a novel ureasil-polyether transdermal hybrid matrix (U-PEO) loaded with Annona muricata concentrated extract (AMCE), which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory activity. The extract was obtained by maceration, a method that allowed for the extraction of a high concentration of flavonoids (39.27 mg/g of extract). In vivo tests demonstrated that 10 mg/kg of AMCE inhibited inflammation for 6 h. The physicochemical characterization of U-PEO with AMCE was conducted via a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), while its surface was recorded using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The in vitro macroscopic swelling and release tests demonstrated the hydrophilic profile of the material and the percentage of AMCE released. The TGA results demonstrated that the system exhibited physical compatibility due to the thermal stability of U-PEO. Additionally, the AFM analysis revealed a rough and porous surface, with a particular emphasis on the system with AMCE. The release resulted in the liberation of 23.72% of AMCE within 24 h. Finally, the preclinical tests demonstrated that U-PEO with AMCE was also capable of effectively inhibiting inflammation for 6 h, a duration comparable to that of a commercial formulation. The results permit the advancement of the study towards the development of a transdermal system, thereby rendering its application in clinical studies feasible.

Antimicrobial gel with silver vanadate and silver nanoparticles: antifungal and physicochemical evaluation.

Aim: To develop a ß-AgVO3 gel and evaluate its physicochemical stability and antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Materials & methods: The gel was prepared from the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ß-AgVO3. The physicochemical stability was evaluated by centrifugation, accelerated stability (AS), storage (St), pH, syringability, viscosity and spreadability tests and antifungal activity by the agar diffusion. Results: The MIC was 62.5 µg/ml. After centrifugation, AS and St gels showed physicochemical stability. Lower viscosity and higher spreadability were observed for the higher ß-AgVO3 concentration and the minimum force for extrusion was similar for all groups. Antifungal effect was observed only for the ß-AgVO3 gel with 20xMIC. Conclusion: The ß-AgVO3 gel showed physicochemical stability and antifungal activity.

We used silver and vanadium to make a gel that can kill fungi in the mouth. We looked at the color of the gel, it's smell and also checked how well it lasted. The gel turned yellow and had no smell and did not spoil for at least 2 months. When we tested the gel against a type of fungus, it worked as well as another medicine called chlorhexidine, which is sold in pharmacies. But when we compared it with another medicine called nystatin, our gel was not as effective in killing the fungus.

Assessment of the effect of experimental gel of pregabalin associated with 35% hydrogen peroxide bleaching on bovine dental enamel: an in vitro study.

To assess the effect of bleaching with gel of pregabalin associated with 35% hydrogen peroxide on the mechanical and chemical properties and ultramorphology of dental enamel. Thirty-six (36) specimens of bovine dental incisors were obtained and divided into three groups (n = 12), namely: CG = bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide; KFG = bleaching with 5% potassium nitrate and 2% sodium fluoride gel + 35% hydrogen peroxide; and PGG = bleaching with experimental gel of pregabalin + 35% hydrogen peroxide. The specimens were assessed with respect to Knoop microhardness, surface roughness, and colour change, before and after bleaching. They were also assessed using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy after treatments. All groups exhibited an increase in surface roughness and a reduction in Knoop microhardness after the protocols. There was colour change in all groups, with no difference between them. In addition, there were changes in enamel morphology and non-significant loss of calcium and phosphorus. The experimental gel of pregabalin did not influence the action of 35% hydrogen peroxide, yielding results similar to those of the other groups assessed in all the parameters. Therefore, the gel of pregabalin can be an alternative for topical application on the surfaces of the teeth in association with bleaching treatments.

Novel Sol-Gel Synthesis Route for Ce- and V-Doped Ba0.85Ca0.15Ti0.9Zr0.1O3 Piezoceramics.

To meet the current demand for lead-free piezoelectric ceramics, a novel sol-gel synthesis route is presented for the preparation of Ba0.85Ca0.15Ti0.9Zr0.1O3 doped with cerium (Ce = 0, 0.01, and 0.02 mol%) and vanadium (V = 0, 0.3, and 0.4 mol%). X-ray diffraction patterns reveal the formation of a perovskite phase (space group P4mm) for all samples after calcination at 800 °C and sintering at 1250, 1350, and 1450 °C, where it is proposed that both dopants occupy the B site. Sintering studies show that V doping allows the sintering temperature to be reduced to at least 1250 °C. Undoped BCZT samples sintered at the same temperature show reduced functional properties compared to V-doped samples, i.e., d33 values increase by an order of magnitude with doping. The dissipation factor tan δ decreases with increasing sintering temperature for all doping concentrations, while the Curie temperature TC increases for all V-doped samples, reaching 120 °C for high-concentration co-doped samples. All results indicate that vanadium doping can facilitate the processing of BCZT at lower sintering temperatures without compromising performance while promoting thermal property stability.

A Comprehensive Approach to Parkinson's Disease: Addressing Its Molecular, Clinical, and Therapeutic Aspects.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a gradually worsening neurodegenerative disorder affecting the nervous system, marked by a slow progression and varied symptoms. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, affecting over six million people in the world. Its multifactorial etiology includes environmental, genomic, and epigenetic factors. Clinical symptoms consist of non-motor and motor symptoms, with motor symptoms being the classic presentation. Therapeutic approaches encompass pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical interventions. Traditional pharmacological treatment consists of administering drugs (MAOIs, DA, and levodopa), while emerging evidence explores the potential of antidiabetic agents for neuroprotection and gene therapy for attenuating parkinsonian symptoms. Non-pharmacological treatments, such as exercise, a calcium-rich diet, and adequate vitamin D supplementation, aim to slow disease progression and prevent complications. For those patients who have medically induced side effects and/or refractory symptoms, surgery is a therapeutic option. Deep brain stimulation is the primary surgical option, associated with motor symptom improvement. Levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel infusion through percutaneous endoscopic gastrojejunostomy and a portable infusion pump succeeded in reducing "off" time, where non-motor and motor symptoms occur, and increasing "on" time. This article aims to address the general aspects of PD and to provide a comparative comprehensive review of the conventional and the latest therapeutic advancements and emerging treatments for PD. Nevertheless, further studies are required to optimize treatment and provide suitable alternatives.

Enhance Ethanol Sensing Performance of Fe-Doped Tetragonal SnO2 Films on Glass Substrate with a Proposed Mathematical Model for Diffusion in Porous Media.

This research enhances ethanol sensing with Fe-doped tetragonal SnO2 films on glass, improving gas sensor reliability and sensitivity. The primary objective was to improve the sensitivity and operational efficiency of SnO2 sensors through Fe doping. The SnO2 sensors were synthesized using a flexible and adaptable method that allows for precise doping control, with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirming homogeneous Fe distribution within the SnO2 matrix. A morphological analysis showed a surface structure ideal for gas sensing. The results demonstrated significant improvement in ethanol response (1 to 20 ppm) and lower temperatures compared to undoped SnO2 sensors. The Fe-doped sensors exhibited higher sensitivity, enabling the detection of low ethanol concentrations and showing rapid response and recovery times. These findings suggest that Fe doping enhances the interaction between ethanol molecules and the sensor surface, improving performance. A mathematical model based on diffusion in porous media was employed to further analyze and optimize sensor performance. The model considers the diffusion of ethanol molecules through the porous SnO2 matrix, considering factors such as surface morphology and doping concentration. Additionally, the choice of electrode material plays a crucial role in extending the sensor's lifespan, highlighting the importance of material selection in sensor design.

Short-Term Effects of Two COX-2 Selective Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs on the Release of Growth Factors and Cytokines from Canine Platelet-Rich Gel Supernatants.

(1) Background: There is a lack of knowledge about how a single dose of COX-2 selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) might affect the release of growth factors (GFs) and cytokines from canine platelet-rich gels (PRGs) and other hemocomponents. (2) Methods: A crossover study was conducted in six adult mongrel dogs. Animals were randomized to receive a single dose of either carprofen or firocoxib. PRG, temperature-induced platelet lysate (TIPL), chemically induced PL (CIPL), and plasma hemocomponents were obtained from each dog before (1 h) and after (6 h) the treatments. Platelet and leukocyte counts and determination of the concentrations of platelet-derived growth factor-BB, (PDGF-BB), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-ß1), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and IL-10 concentrations were assayed by ELISA in all hemocomponents. (3) Results: Both platelet and leukocyte counts and PDGF-BB concentrations were not affected by NSAIDs and time. Total TGF-ß1 concentrations were not affected by NSAIDs; however, the release of this GF was increased in PRG supernatants (PRGS) at 6 h. IL-1ß and TNF-α concentrations were significantly (p < 0.001) lower in both firocoxib PRGS and plasma at 6 h, respectively. IL-10 concentrations were significantly (p < 0.001) lower at 6 h in all hemocomponents treated with both NSAIDs. (4) Conclusions: The clinical implications of our findings could indicate that these drugs should be withdrawn from patients to allow their clearance before the clinical use of PRP/PRG. On the other hand, the prophylactic use of NSAIDs to avoid the inflammatory reactions that some patients might have after PRP/PRG treatment should be performed only in those animals with severe reactive inflammation to the treatment.

Production and Physicochemical Characterization of the Gel Obtained in the Fermentation Process of Blue Corn Flour (Zea mays L.) with Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.

Food gels are viscoelastic substances used in various gelled products manufactured around the world. Polysaccharides are the most common food gelling agents. The aim of this work was the production and characterization of a gel produced in a blue corn flour fermentation process, where different proportions were used of blue corn (Zea mays L.) flour and Czapek Dox culture medium (90 mL of culture medium with 10 g of blue corn flour, 80 mL of culture medium with 20 g of blue corn flour, and 70 mL of culture medium with 30 g of blue corn flour) and were fermented for three different durations (20, 25, and 30 days) with the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides fungus. A characterization of the gel was carried out studying the rheological properties, proximal analysis, toxicological analysis, microscopic structure, and molecular characterization, in addition to a solubility test with three different organic solvents (ethanol, hexane, and ethyl acetate, in addition to water). The results obtained showed in the rheological analysis that the gel could have resistance to high temperatures and a reversible behavior. The gel is soluble in polar solvents (ethanol and water). The main chemical components of the gel are carbohydrates, especially polysaccharides, and it was confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy that the gel may be composed of pectin.

Green banana (Musa ssp.) mixed pulp and peel flour: A new ingredient with interesting bioactive, nutritional, and technological properties for food applications.

This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the in vitro bioactive properties of green banana pulp (GBPF), peel (GBPeF), and mixed pulp/peel flours M1 (90/10) and M2 (80/20). Lipid concentration was higher in GBPeF (7.53%), as were the levels of free and bound phenolics (577 and 653.1 mg GAE/100 g, respectively), whereas the resistant starch content was higher in GBPF (44.11%). Incorporating up to 20% GBPeF into the mixed flour had a minor effect on the starch pasting properties of GBPF. GBPeF featured rutin and trans-ferulic acid as the predominant free and bound phenolic compounds, respectively. GBPF presented different major free phenolics, though it had similar bound phenolics to GBPeF. Both M1 and M2 demonstrated a reduction in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Consequently, this study validates the potential of green banana mixed flour, containing up to 20% GBPeF, for developing healthy foods and reducing post-harvest losses.

A Novel In Situ Sol-Gel Synthesis Method for PDMS Composites Reinforced with Silica Nanoparticles.

The addition of nanostructures to polymeric materials allows for a direct interaction between polymeric chains and nanometric structures, resulting in a synergistic process through the physical (electrostatic forces) and chemical properties (bond formation) of constituents for the modification of their properties and potential cutting-edge materials. This study explores a novel in situ synthesis method for PDMS-%SiO2 nanoparticle composites with varying crosslinking degrees (PDMS:TEOS of 15:1, 10:1, and 5:1); particle concentrations (5%, 10%, and 15%); and sol-gel catalysts (acidic and alkaline). This investigation delves into the distinct physical and chemical properties of silicon nanoparticles synthesized under acidic (SiO2-a) and alkaline (SiO2-b) conditions. A characterization through Raman, FT-IR, and XPS analyses confirms particle size and agglomeration differences between both the SiO2-a and SiO2-b particles. Similar chemical environments, with TEOS and ethanol by-products, were detected for both systems. The results on polymer composites elucidate the successful incorporation of SiO2 nanoparticles into the PDMS matrix without altering the PDMS's chemical structure. However, the presence of nanoparticles did affect the relative intensities of specific vibrational modes over composites from -35% to 24% (Raman) and from -14% to 59% (FT-IR). The XPS results validate the presence of Si, O, and C in all composites, with significant variations in atomic proportions (C/Si and O/Si) and Si and C component analyses through deconvolution techniques. This study demonstrates the successful in situ synthesis of PDMS-SiO2 composites with tunable properties by controlling the sol-gel and crosslinking synthesis parameters. The findings provide valuable insights into the in situ synthesis methods of polymeric composite materials and their potential integration with polymer nanocomposite processing techniques.

Development and characterization of ceramic-polymeric hybrid scaffolds for bone regeneration: incorporating of bioactive glass BG-58S into PDLLA matrix.

In recent years, there has been a notable surge of interest in hybrid materials within the biomedical field, particularly for applications in bone repair and regeneration. Ceramic-polymeric hybrid scaffolds have shown promising outcomes. This study aimed to synthesize bioactive glass (BG-58S) for integration into a bioresorbable polymeric matrix based on PDLLA, aiming to create a bioactive scaffold featuring stable pH levels. The synthesis involved a thermally induced phase separation process followed by lyophilization to ensure an appropriate porous structure. BG-58S characterization revealed vitreous, bioactive, and mesoporous structural properties. The scaffolds were analyzed for morphology, interconnectivity, chemical groups, porosity and pore size distribution, zeta potential, pH, in vitro degradation, as well as cell viability tests, total protein content and mineralization nodule production. The PDLLA scaffold displayed a homogeneous morphology with interconnected macropores, while the hybrid scaffold exhibited a heterogeneous morphology with smaller diameter pores due to BG-58S filling. The hybrid scaffold also demonstrated a pH buffering effect on the polymer surface. In addition to structural characteristics, degradation tests indicated that by incorporating BG-58S modified the acidic degradation of the polymer, allowing for increased total protein production and the formation of mineralization nodules, indicating a positive influence on cell culture.