Search Results (1,205)

Background/Objectives: The main objective of optimizing the composition of dental implants is to improve tissue compatibility for enhanced biological/biochemical performance. In this context, research on the development of new titanium alloys in dental implantology considers the careful selection of alloying elements, both in terms of biocompatibility (their lack of toxicity) and their potential to improve the metallurgical processing capacity (thermal and/or thermomechanical), which through controlled microstructural changes lead to the optimal combination of properties for functionality and durability of the implant. The purpose of the research is to study the influence of alloying elements on the phase composition and physical–mechanical properties of experimental titanium alloys. Methods: Four alloys with original chemical compositions were developed, coded in the experiments as follows: Ti1, Ti2, Ti3, Ti4. The characterization of the alloys was carried out by detailed analysis of the chemical composition, phase structure and by testing the physico-mechanical properties (HV hardness, tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, modulus of elasticity), by standardized modern methods. Characterization methods, such as optical microscopy, SEM, EDS and XRD were performed, followed by tensile tests based on ASTM EB/EBM-22 and EN ISO 6892-1-2009 standards. Results: The research results provide information regarding the relationship between the composition and the physico-mechanical properties (Rm, Rp, HV, A, G, E) of the experimental alloys (Ti1–Ti4). Depending on the value level of the properties, these have been highlighted: compositions in which the alloy can be indicated for conditions of intense stress (Ti3), compositions that describe highly ductile alloys, easy to process and adapt to clinical requirements (Ti4), but also alloys compositions characterized by a balanced combination of strength, plasticity/ductility (Ti1, Ti2). Conclusions: Research for the development of new titanium alloys through the optimization of chemical composition has taken into account the requirements regarding the biological/biomechanical compatibility of biomaterials. Analyzed in comparison with Cp-Ti grade 4 and Ti6A4V, the experimental alloys (Ti1–Ti4) can be characterized as follows: The mechanical strength properties (Rm and Rp) are higher than those of pure commercial titanium (Cp-Ti grade 4) for all compositions Ti1–Ti4, but slightly lower than those of alloy Ti6Al4V. The plasticity–ductility properties have values comparable to those of Cp-Ti grade 4 (Ti4 and Ti2 compositions) and Ti6Al4V (Ti1 composition), with one exception, the Ti3 alloy. All four experimental alloys have a lower modulus of elasticity than Cp-Ti grade 4 (102–104 GPa) and Ti6Al4V (113 GPa), commonly used in dental implants. An in-depth analysis, which will also consider information on corrosion behavior and cellular testing, may support the selection of some of the four experimental alloys studied. The research aims to continue the progress to a higher level of testing, through the realization of dental implants (e.g., fatigue, wear, osteointegration capacity, etc.). Full article

This study presents an integrated chemical and anatomical characterization of leaves from seven Asparagaceae species (Agave convallis Trel., A. salmiana Otto ex Salm.-Dyck, A. striata Zucc., Dasylirion acrotrichum Zucc., Nolina excelsa García-Mend. & E. Solano, Yucca filifera Chabaud, and Y. periculosa Baker). Leaf biomass was subjected to successive Soxhlet extractions to quantify extractives, followed by isolation of lignocellulosic fractions. Lignin and cellulose were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to determine the syringyl/guaiacyl (S/G) ratio and total crystallinity index. Leaf anatomy was examined using fluorescence microscopy. Total extractives ranged from 13.4 to 24.0%, with A. salmiana and D. acrotrichum showing the highest values. Lignin content varied markedly among genera, reaching up to 45.1% in Yucca species, whereas cellulose content ranged from 31.3 to 42.2%. Crystalline cellulose accounted for 42.1–56.9% of total cellulose, with the highest crystallinity observed in A. convallis. FTIR analysis revealed a predominance of guaiacyl-type lignin in all species except Y. periculosa (S/G = 1.2). Multivariate analyses discriminated between genera primarily based on lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose contents. These findings highlight genus-level differences in leaf lignocellulosic composition and support the potential use of Asparagaceae leaves as feedstocks for bioenergy and biomaterial applications. Full article

This review synthetizes experimental evidence on collagen-related bioactivity and the biomaterial potential of plant species native to the Chihuahuan Desert, aiming to identify natural compounds that could enhance next-generation dermal bioinks for 3D bioprinting. A structured search across major databases included studies characterizing plant extracts or metabolites, with reported effects on collagen synthesis, fibroblast activity, inflammation, oxidative balance, or interactions with polymers commonly used in skin-engineering materials being developed. Evidence was organized thematically to reveal mechanistic patterns despite methodological heterogeneity. Several species, among them Larrea tridentata, Opuntia spp., Aloe spp., Matricaria chamomilla, Simmondsia chinensis, Prosopis glandulosa, and Artemisia ludoviciana, repeatedly demonstrated the presence of bioactive metabolites such as lignans, flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides. These compounds support pathways central to extracellular matrix repair, including stimulation of fibroblast migration and collagen I/III expression, modulation of inflammatory cascades, antioxidant protection, and stabilization of ECM structures. Notably, several metabolites also influence viscoelastic and crosslinking behaviors, suggesting that they may enhance the printability, mechanical stability, and cell-supportive properties of collagen-, GelMA-, and hyaluronic acid-based bioinks. The review also reflects on the bioethical and sustainability considerations regarding endemic floral resources, highlighting the importance of responsible sourcing, conservation extraction practices, and alignment with international biodiversity and access to benefit/sharing frameworks. Taken together, these findings point to a promising, yet largely unexplored, opportunity: integrating regionally derived phytochemicals into bioinks to create biologically active, environmentally conscious, and clinically relevant materials capable of improving collagen remodeling and regenerative outcomes in 3D-printed skin. Full article

Rosin, a renewable natural resin derived from pine trees, is a promising biomass material for sustainable product development, though its distinct intrinsic odor limits broader use. This study implemented a comprehensive analytical strategy to mitigate the odor by incorporating essential oils (EOs)—eucalyptus (EUC) and peppermint (MINT)—and to conduct a multi-analytical characterization of the modified rosin jewelry. By integrating complementary analytical techniques, including LC-Q/TOF-MS for non-volatile components and GC-Q/TOF-MS for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), we achieved a systematic chemical profiling of the materials. The core composition of rosin, dominated by abietic acid (>48%), remained stable across all samples. The incorporation of EOs significantly altered the VOC profiles: The total VOC signal (summed peak area) in MINT-modified rosin was 2.57-fold that of the EUC-modified sample, with monoterpenoids comprising 87.62% of its VOC signature. Eucalyptol and limonene were tentatively identified as the major components in the EUC sample, whereas menthone, menthol, and limonene predominated in the MINT sample. Multivariate statistical analysis highlighted that variations in specific VOCs—particularly menthone, menthol, eucalyptol, and allo-ocimene—were closely associated with differences in the scent profiles of each modification. This work illustrates how a multi-technique analytical strategy can both guide and assess the functional modification of sustainable biomass materials. The findings offer a practical approach to improving rosin’s functional properties while providing a methodological framework for the integrated characterization of complex biomaterials, supporting the development of eco-friendly products aligned with green chemistry and sustainable design principles. Full article

Eggshell waste represents an underutilized biogenic resource, rich in calcium carbonate and organic components, whose increasing generation poses significant environmental and economic challenges. It is estimated that more than 8 million tons of eggshells are produced worldwide annually, most of which are disposed of in landfills, leading to landfill overload and increased waste management costs. In this context, the main objective of this study was to develop and compare three processing routes for converting calcium carbonate derived from eggshell waste into calcium acetate, using commercial vinegar (4–5% acetic acid) as a low-cost, sustainable acid source. The proposed routes were systematically evaluated based on processing efficiency, product characteristics, and operational simplicity. The materials obtained were characterized by X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), particle size analysis, and zeta potential measurements. The results indicated that the eggshells contained approximately 95.39% calcium, confirming their suitability as an efficient calcium precursor. Among the routes evaluated, the process using a spherical condenser under reflux at 90 °C showed superior performance, achieving shorter reaction times and maintaining comparable yields of membrane byproducts compared to the other methods. This approach differs from conventional routes by eliminating the need for high-purity reagents, reducing processing time, and using exclusively food-grade acetic acid, thus increasing sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Morphological, chemical, and thermal analyses confirmed the quality and stability of the synthesized calcium acetate. In general, these results demonstrate that eggshell waste can be efficiently valorized into calcium acetate through a scalable, straightforward process, thereby reducing landfill disposal and supporting circular economy strategies, with potential applications in the production of calcium-based biomaterials. Full article

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is a calcium silicate-based endodontic biomaterial widely used for its biocompatibility, sealing ability, and osteoconductive potential; however, further enhancement of its bone regenerative capacity without compromising structural stability remains of interest. Strontium apatite (SrAp), a bioactive calcium phosphate phase structurally analogous to bone mineral, may promote osteogenic activity and bone regeneration. In this study, standardized cylindrical defects (2.5 mm diameter, 4 mm depth) were created in the right tibial metaphysis of systemically healthy rats and allocated to four groups: empty defect (control), pure MTA, 25SrAp–MTA, and 50SrAp–MTA. SrAp nanoparticles were synthesized hydrothermally and incorporated into the MTA matrix at predefined weight fractions. Materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). After 8 weeks, tibial specimens were harvested and processed for H&E histology; fibrous tissue formation, new bone formation, and osteoblastic cell presence were semi-quantitatively scored. XRD and FT-IR confirmed that SrAp incorporation preserved the fundamental Ca-silicate phase architecture and hydration chemistry of MTA, indicating chemical and crystallographic stability. SEM–EDX demonstrated progressive microstructural densification with increasing SrAp content, with reduced intergranular porosity and homogeneous SrAp distribution. Histologically, both SrAp–MTA groups exhibited significantly higher new bone formation and osteoblastic activity than untreated controls (p < 0.05), while fibrotic tissue formation did not differ significantly among groups. Although SrAp–MTA composites did not show statistically significant superiority over pure MTA after multiple-comparison adjustment, they demonstrated consistent osteogenic trends relative to empty defects. Overall, SrAp reinforcement yields a chemically compatible and structurally stable MTA-based composite that supports an enhanced osteogenic response in vivo without increasing fibrosis, suggesting potential utility in endodontic surgery and bone defect repair; longer-term and quantitative analyses are warranted to optimize SrAp content and confirm long-term performance. Full article

Archaeal lipids are a source of new biomaterials for pharmaceutical and nanomedical applications; however, their classical extraction method relies on chloroform and methanol, toxic solvents that conflict with green chemistry principles. In this paper, we explore the performance of an eco-friendly method for the extraction of total lipids from the haloarchaea Halorubrum tebenquichense. Using the bio-solvents ethyl acetate and ethanol in a two-step procedure, a fraction of total lipids (135 ± 41 mg phospholipids and 1.1 ± 0.4 mg bacterioruberin (BR)/100 g cell paste) was obtained containing the same composition as that resulting from extraction with the classical solvents, as confirmed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, although with lower phospholipid (PL) content, thus with a higher proportion of bacterioruberin (BR/PL ratio 9.0 vs. 6.8 µg/mg). The extracted lipids were subsequently utilized for the preparation of archaeosomes, which were characterized by uniform size distribution (406 ± 137 nm, 0.63 ± 0.13 polydispersity index), colloidal stability, and negative ζ potential (−38.2 ± 5.4 mV). The photoprotective potential of these archaeosomes was determined for the first time in human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells exposed to UVB irradiation (270 mJ/cm²). Treatment with archaeosomes significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced cell viability (from ~43 to ~80%), reduced intracellular ROS generation and proinflammatory cytokine release (TNF-α), and mitigated UVB-induced apoptosis compared to untreated controls, indicating effective cytoprotection. This study demonstrates that ethyl acetate–ethanol-based extraction offers an alternative for archaeal lipid recovery and highlights the potential of archaeosomes as natural photoprotective agents for skincare applications. Full article

Synthesized by expressing natural collagen sequences in specific hosts, recombinant collagen exhibits multiple advantages, encompassing a higher content of bioactive domains, enhanced antioxidant activity, the absence of viral pathogens, favorable hydrophilicity, reproducible production, and low immunogenicity. Consequently, it has found extensive use in applications ranging from biomaterials and pharmaceuticals to skincare. This review systematically explores various expression systems for recombinant collagen, including those utilizing Escherichia coli, Pichia pastoris, plants, insect baculovirus, and mammalian cells. It provides a detailed comparison of their differences and commonalities in terms of production efficiency, post-translational modification capability, and cost-effectiveness. Key separation and purification techniques for recombinant collage-notably precipitation, affinity chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and gel filtration chromatography are further introduced, with an in-depth analysis of the applicable scenarios and purification outcomes for each method. Finally, the review comprehensively summarizes the characterization methods for both the physicochemical properties and biological functions of recombinant collagen. For physicochemical properties, techniques covered include scanning electron microscopy, micro-differential thermal analysis, circular dichroism spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE, mass spectrometry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. For biological functions, the focus is on its roles and the corresponding assessment methods in processes such as cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and wound healing. Building upon this comprehensive overview, current challenges facing recombinant collagen are identified, and future directions are proposed, emphasizing the need to reduce R&D costs, refine testing methods for cosmetic products, and improve safety evaluation protocols to advance the field. Full article

Postpericardiotomy syndrome (PPS) is the most frequent inflammatory after-effect of cardiac surgery and is characterized by high morbidity, delayed hospitalization, and increased long-term mortality rates. Although PPS is common, empirical anti-inflammatory therapy has historically been employed for its prevention, and mechanism-based approaches have not yet been standardized. In this literature review, which was conducted on the basis of randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, cohort studies, and mechanistic research regarding pharmacologic interventions, surgical modalities, and biomarker-based preventive strategies, the deficiencies of a critical synthesis of existing preventive strategies and emerging risk stratification instruments for PPS are addressed. The review affirms that the most evidence-based pharmacologic intervention is colchicine, which demonstrates a consistent reduction in PPS incidence across a range of randomized trials. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs show variable responses, whereas corticosteroids are no longer recommended for routine prophylaxis due to relapse. Specific anti–interleukin-1 therapies represent a promising novel approach for high-risk patients. Surgical interventions, such as pericardial closure using biomaterials and posterior pericardiotomy, are important and do not lead to increased hemodynamic complications, while postoperative effusions, atrial fibrillation, and tamponade are reduced. Less invasive methods may also be employed to mitigate inflammatory causes, particularly in valve-sparing procedures and congenital operations. Emerging biomarker data, including postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios, C-reactive protein levels, and pericardial fluid cytokines, enable the identification of high-risk patients and form the basis for a personalized prevention approach. In summary, pharmacologic prophylaxis, innovative surgical techniques, and biomarker-based risk stratification represent a pathway toward reducing the incidence and burden of PPS in modern cardiac surgery. Full article

Pathological scars are fibrotic lesions that result from aberrant wound healing following tissue injury, such as burns. They are frequently associated with disfigurement and dysfunction, thereby severely impairing the quality of life of affected patients. Current clinical treatments, including surgery, laser therapy, and corticosteroid injections, are often characterized by limited efficacy, high recurrence rates, and undesirable side effects, including skin atrophy. Furthermore, the dense structure and excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in scar tissue present a significant barrier to effective drug penetration, thereby further limiting therapeutic efficacy. In recent years, biomaterial-based drug delivery systems, which integrate sustained drug release with minimally invasive transdermal technologies, have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome the limitations of traditional therapies. This review systematically outlines the pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms of pathological scars, summarizes established and emerging treatments, and highlights the application strategies and future prospects of novel biomaterial-based drug delivery systems for managing this condition. Full article

This study reports the synthesis and detailed characterization of pullulan-isononanoate (Pull-Iso), as well as the preparation and characterization of Pull-Iso films incorporating liposomes loaded with silibinin (SB) and smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria) extract (STExt), to explore the physicochemical and functional properties of pullulan-based biomaterials for potential biomedical applications. Pullulan was successfully esterified with isononanoic acid chloride, as confirmed by ¹H and ¹³C NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Modification significantly reduced the glass transition temperature (Tg), indicating enhanced chain mobility due to the introduction of bulky side chains. Prepared liposomes, embedding SB and extracted smoke tree compounds, exhibited particle sizes ~2000 nm with moderate polydispersity (~0.340) and zeta potential values around –20 mV, demonstrating lower colloidal stability over 60 days, thereby justifying their encapsulation within films. Optical microscopy revealed uniform liposome dispersion in Pull-Iso film with 0.5 g of liposomes, while higher liposome loading (0.75 g of liposomes) induced aggregation and microstructural irregularities. Mechanical analysis showed a reduction in tensile strength and strain at higher liposome content. The incorporation of liposomes encapsulating STExt and SB significantly enhanced the antioxidant activity of Pull-Iso-based films in a concentration-dependent manner, as demonstrated by DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. These preliminary findings suggest that pullulan esterification and controlled liposome incorporation may enable the development of flexible, bioactive-loaded films, which could represent a promising platform for advanced wound dressing applications, warranting further investigation. Full article

Oligocarbonate diols (OCD) require tedious and time-consuming synthesis procedures. The most common ones use dimethyl carbonate or alkylene carbonate as starting materials. Considering the preparation of small batches of oligomerols with an atypical structure, this methodology is not convenient. Therefore, we developed a simple way to obtain OCDs and oligo(urethane-carbonate) diols (OUCDs) containing aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, aromatic or oxyethylene units based on commercially available OCDs (ETERNACOLL, UBE). The process was conducted in two stages combining transesterification/transurethanization and polycondensation reactions. It resulted in novel OCDs and OUCDs with an irregular structure. Their composition was characterized using FT-IR, NMR, and MALDI-TOF techniques. The hydroxyl values were determined by potentiometric titration. The numerical average molar masses of the oligomerols ranged from approx. 1000 to 3200 g/mol, making them attractive materials for the preparation of a variety of polyurethane products. Thanks to the presence of carbonate moieties that are resistant to hydrolytic and oxidative degradation, poly(carbonate-urethane)s could find applications as coatings, thermoplastic elastomers, and biomaterials. The influence of the structural variations of the oligomerols on the properties of polyurethanes is now under investigation. Full article

Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are widely used in restorative and luting dentistry due to their fluoride release and chemical adhesion to dental tissues; however, their limited mechanical strength necessitates reinforcement strategies. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of hemp-derived, green-synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles on the surface and mechanical properties of two commercially available GICs with different clinical indications. TiO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized using Cannabis sativa leaf extract via a biogenic reduction method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), confirming anatase-phase crystallinity, spherical morphology, and nanoscale particle size (28–49 nm). The nanoparticles were incorporated into Ketac™ Molar Easymix (restorative) and Ketac™ Cem Radiopaque (luting) GICs at 1%, 3%, and 5% (w/w), with nanoparticle-free formulations serving as controls (n = 10). Surface roughness, Vickers microhardness, and flexural strength were evaluated. Surface roughness increased in a concentration-dependent manner in both materials, with the highest values observed at 5% TiO₂ incorporation. In Ketac™ Molar Easymix, 1% and 3% TiO₂ significantly enhanced flexural strength and microhardness, whereas 5% resulted in reduced performance, consistent with SEM-observed nanoparticle agglomeration. In contrast, Ketac™ Cem Radiopaque exhibited no significant changes in flexural strength, although maximum microhardness values were recorded at 1% TiO₂ concentration. These findings demonstrate that low concentrations of hemp-derived TiO₂ nanoparticles can effectively reinforce restorative GICs and highlight the potential of green nanotechnology as a sustainable approach for improving dental biomaterials. Full article

In order to improve the utilization of alkali lignin (AL) as an effective component for ultraviolet (UV) shielding, demethylation and acetylation modification were carried out to improve the UV absorption performance of lignin. Then, lignin-based sunscreens were successfully prepared by mixing the modified lignin and commercial cream without UV shielding ingredients. The modified alkali lignin was comprehensively characterized in terms of its molecular weight, functional groups and structural properties by GPC, UV spectroscopy and ³¹P NMR. The results showed that the Mw of all three lignin feedstocks (AL, AL_MeOH and AL_Acetone) was decreased with prolonged demethylation time. Compared to the original feedstock, demethylated AL had a darker color and improved UV absorption performance due to the increased phenolic hydroxyl content (approximately 4.35 mmol/g). ³¹P-NMR spectra showed that the guaiacyl phenolic hydroxyl content decreased rapidly after acetylation, causing the sample color to become lighter. Among all lignin-based sunscreens, DAL_Acetone achieved the highest SPF value of 11.23, a 69.4% increase over its pre-reaction level and a 7.58-fold enhancement compared to the original lignin. In summary, this study opens a promising avenue for repurposing industrial lignin as a sustainable biomaterial in high-value sectors like UV-blocking agents and cosmetic formulations. Full article

The naturally occurring, biocompatible and biodegradable biopolymer dextran is a versatile material for the formulation of hydrogels with desirable properties for use in medicine, drug delivery, and tissue engineering applications. The distinctive structural and physicochemical characteristics, such as polymeric nature, gelling ability and excellent swelling properties, present it as an excellent biomaterial for drug delivery. This study explores the synthesis and characterization of dextran hydrogel for the encapsulation of clindamycin as an innovative approach for controlled drug delivery. The dextran hydrogel was synthesized through a simple and cost-effective method, and its swelling behavior, temperature and pH dependence, and surface morphology were investigated. The maximum equilibrium swelling ratio (73 ± 1%) of the hydrogel was observed in water at 25 °C within 120 min, and the hydrogel was found to be pH- and temperature-dependent for more precise and targeted drug delivery. Moreover, the dextran hydrogel was found to retain water for up to 18 h and remain stable for 8 days. The presence of a roughened surface with large openings/pores on the surface illustrated the high swelling capability of the synthesized hydrogel. In addition, the dextran hydrogel loaded with clindamycin demonstrated high drug loading capacity (70 ± 2%), rapid (65 ± 2%) in vitro drug release potential and pathogen-inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus gallinarium and Bacillus subtilis. Full article