Journal of Functional Biomaterials

13 pages, 4091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ESEM-EDX Mineralization and Morphological Analysis of Human Retrieved Maxillary Sinus Bone Graft Biopsies before Loading

by Hideki Imai, Carlo Prati, Fausto Zamparini, Giovanna Iezzi, Daniele Botticelli, Maria Giovanna Gandolfi and Shunsuke Baba

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070391 - 24 Jul 2023

Viewed by 986

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the morphology of bone graft granules, the presence of granule demineralization, and bone morphology in retrieved human maxillary sinus bone graft biopsies. Healthy patients underwent sinus bone augmentation using lateral access. Two different dimensions of the antrostomy were [...] Read more.

This study aimed to analyze the morphology of bone graft granules, the presence of granule demineralization, and bone morphology in retrieved human maxillary sinus bone graft biopsies. Healthy patients underwent sinus bone augmentation using lateral access. Two different dimensions of the antrostomy were performed, a 4 mm or 8 mm height. After 6 months, all sites received one implant using a flap technique, crestal positioning, and submerged healing. Implant biopsies were retrieved after 3 months and were histologically processed. The ESEM analysis was performed on the entire portion of the peri-implant bone (up to 750 µm from the implant thread). Three different regions of interest (ROIs) were selected: the coronal, middle, and apical portions of the implant. In these areas, EDX was performed, and calcium (Ca), phosphate (P), nitrogen (N), and their atomic ratios (Ca/P, Ca/N, and P/N) were calculated. Different bone tissue electron-dense areas were detected through grayscale intensity quantification of ESEM images with different organic (N) or inorganic (Ca,P) compositions. A total of 16 biopsies from 16 healthy patients were analyzed. Bone graft granules were mostly detected in the apical ROI. New bone tissue bridges were detected in the apical and middle ROI. These structures, with lower Ca/N and P/N ratios, were connected and enveloped the bone graft granules. Cortical ROI revealed the most mineralized bone tissue. Conclusions: After 9 months, bone graft resorption was only partially completed and new bone tissue appeared less mineralized in the middle and apical ROI than in the coronal ROI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue How Biomaterials and Implants Influence the Healing after Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation)

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14 pages, 4188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Magnesium-Rich Calcium Phosphate Derived from Tilapia Bone Has Superior Osteogenic Potential

by Xiaxin Cao, Jiaqi Zhu, Changze Zhang, Jiaru Xian, Mengting Li, Swastina Nath Varma, Ziyu Qin, Qiaoyuan Deng, Xinyue Zhang, Wei Yang and Chaozong Liu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070390 - 24 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1277

Abstract

We extracted magnesium-rich calcium phosphate bioceramics from tilapia bone using a gradient thermal treatment approach and investigated their chemical and physicochemical properties. X-ray diffraction showed that tilapia fish bone-derived hydroxyapatite (FHA) was generated through the first stage of thermal processing at 600–800 °C. [...] Read more.

We extracted magnesium-rich calcium phosphate bioceramics from tilapia bone using a gradient thermal treatment approach and investigated their chemical and physicochemical properties. X-ray diffraction showed that tilapia fish bone-derived hydroxyapatite (FHA) was generated through the first stage of thermal processing at 600–800 °C. Using FHA as a precursor, fish bone biphasic calcium phosphate (FBCP) was produced after the second stage of thermal processing at 900–1200 °C. The beta-tricalcium phosphate content in the FBCP increased with an increasing calcination temperature. The fact that the lattice spacing of the FHA and FBCP was smaller than that of commercial hydroxyapatite (CHA) suggests that Mg-substituted calcium phosphate was produced via the gradient thermal treatment. Both the FHA and FBCP contained considerable quantities of magnesium, with the FHA having a higher concentration. In addition, the FHA and FBCP, particularly the FBCP, degraded faster than the CHA. After one day of degradation, both the FHA and FBCP released Mg²⁺, with cumulative amounts of 4.38 mg/L and 0.58 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, the FHA and FBCP demonstrated superior bone-like apatite formation; they are non-toxic and exhibit better osteoconductive activity than the CHA. In light of our findings, bioceramics originating from tilapia bone appear to be promising in biomedical applications such as fabricating tissue engineering scaffolds. Full article

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14 pages, 982 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Effectiveness of the Addition of Platelet-Rich Fibrin to Bovine Xenografts in Sinus and Bone Ridge Augmentation: A Systematic Review

by Katia Idiri, Octave Bandiaky, Assem Soueidan, Christian Verner, Emmanuelle Renard and Xavier Struillou

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070389 - 23 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1378

Abstract

Dental implants sometimes need bone augmentation to recreate an adequate bone height and volume. Numerous bone augmentation techniques have been described, and, currently, the most commonly used bone graft procedure is xenografts with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM). The addition of platelet-rich fibrin [...] Read more.

Dental implants sometimes need bone augmentation to recreate an adequate bone height and volume. Numerous bone augmentation techniques have been described, and, currently, the most commonly used bone graft procedure is xenografts with deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM). The addition of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to DBBM has already shown better performance than DBBM alone in restoring intrabony periodontal defects, but the role of PRF in preimplantation bone grafts is still not clear. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of the adjunction of PRF or L-PRF to DBBM in bone ridge augmentation procedures. Clinical randomized controlled studies using PRF associated with DBBM were included. In April 2023, three electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science) were searched. The search strategy was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. The risk of bias assessments were performed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A total of seven articles were included and analyzed. The results show no statistically significant effect of PRF added to DBBM compared to DBBM alone in the sinus lift procedure but do show an effect in the reduction in bone graft resorption in one study of mandibular guided bone regeneration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biomaterials for Periodontal Regeneration)

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16 pages, 19160 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Empirical Model Linking Physico-Chemical Biomaterial Characteristics to Intra-Oral Bone Formation

by Ehsan Sadeghian Dehkord, Greet Kerckhofs, Philippe Compère, France Lambert and Liesbet Geris

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070388 - 22 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1138

Abstract

Facial trauma, bone resection due to cancer, periodontal diseases, and bone atrophy following tooth extraction often leads to alveolar bone defects that require bone regeneration in order to restore dental function. Guided bone regeneration using synthetic biomaterials has been suggested as an alternative [...] Read more.

Facial trauma, bone resection due to cancer, periodontal diseases, and bone atrophy following tooth extraction often leads to alveolar bone defects that require bone regeneration in order to restore dental function. Guided bone regeneration using synthetic biomaterials has been suggested as an alternative approach to autologous bone grafts. The efficiency of bone substitute materials seems to be influenced by their physico-chemical characteristics; however, the debate is still ongoing on what constitutes optimal biomaterial characteristics. The purpose of this study was to develop an empirical model allowing the assessment of the bone regeneration potential of new biomaterials on the basis of their physico-chemical characteristics, potentially giving directions for the design of a new generation of dental biomaterials. A quantitative data set was built composed of physico-chemical characteristics of seven commercially available intra-oral bone biomaterials and their in vivo response. This empirical model allowed the identification of the construct parameters driving optimized bone formation. The presented model provides a better understanding of the influence of driving biomaterial properties in the bone healing process and can be used as a tool to design bone biomaterials with a more controlled and custom-made composition and structure, thereby facilitating and improving the clinical translation. Full article

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14 pages, 3372 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of Satraplatin to Overcome Cisplatin Drug Resistance

by Xiaohan Jiang, Qiang Yang, Ruogu Qi and Lesan Yan

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070387 - 22 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1226

Abstract

Drug resistance and cancer metastasis are the major obstacles for widely used platinum-based chemotherapy. It is acknowledgement that the decreasing intracellular accumulation of anticancer drugs and increasing sulfur-binding detoxification are two major mechanisms related to drug resistance. Herein, we developed a practical and [...] Read more.

Drug resistance and cancer metastasis are the major obstacles for widely used platinum-based chemotherapy. It is acknowledgement that the decreasing intracellular accumulation of anticancer drugs and increasing sulfur-binding detoxification are two major mechanisms related to drug resistance. Herein, we developed a practical and straightforward method for formulating the clinically used anticancer drug satraplatin (JM-216) with D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS)-based polymers to create satraplatin-loaded nanoparticles (SatPt-NPs). The experimental results demonstrate that SatPt-NPs exhibited comparable efficacy to A2780 in treating the A2780 cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cell line (A2780DDP), indicating their significant potential in overcoming drug resistance. Additionally, buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) is capable of depleting intracellular glutathione (GSH), resulting in reduced detoxification. After BSO treatment, the IC₅₀ value of SatPt-NPs changed from 0.178 to 0.133 μM, which remained relatively unchanged compared to cisplatin. This suggests that SatPt-NPs can overcome drug resistance by evading GSH detoxification. Therefore, SatPt-NPs have the ability to inhibit drug resistance in tumor cells and hold tremendous potential in cancer treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Drug Delivery)

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14 pages, 2249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of an In-Office Bleaching Agent with Surface Pre-Reacted Glass-Ionomer Filler on the Enamel Surface: A In-Vitro Study

by Mika Shimojima, Noriko Hiraishi, Kodai Akabane, Mohannad Nassar, Masayuki Otsuki and Yasushi Shimada

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070386 - 21 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1189

Abstract

In-office bleaching with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) agents causes undesirable alterations in the enamel. Surface pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler is a functional material known for its acid-neutralizing and demineralization-inhibition properties. This study evaluates the effect of S-PRG [...] Read more.

In-office bleaching with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) agents causes undesirable alterations in the enamel. Surface pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler is a functional material known for its acid-neutralizing and demineralization-inhibition properties. This study evaluates the effect of S-PRG filler incorporation in H₂O₂-based bleaching on the enamel surface. Bovine enamel surfaces were bleached using a bleaching paste formulated with a liquid (35% H₂O₂) and a powder containing 5% or 10% S-PRG filler. The surface roughness and the Vickers microhardness of the treated enamel surfaces were evaluated. The enamel surfaces were observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) technology. The surfaces were challenged by citric acid and observed by SEM. The specimens bleached with the paste containing the S-PRG filler showed lower enamel surface roughness and higher microhardness values than did those bleached with the plain paste (0% S-PRG filler); meanwhile, there were no significant differences between the 5% or 10% S-PRG filler groups. The S-PRG filler groups showed enamel surface morphologies similar to those of the non-bleached enamel, according to SEM observation, and EDX analysis detected the presence of fluoride and strontium ions. The S-PRG filler groups showed a higher resistance to erosion. The S-PRG filler mitigated the detrimental effects of bleaching agents on the enamel surface and provided resistance to erosion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Materials for Dental Restorations)

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14 pages, 6815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis of Biocompatible Silver-Doped Carbonate Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles Using Microwave-Assisted Precipitation and In Vitro Studies for the Prevention of Peri-Implantitis

by Saifuddin Aziz, Ika Dewi Ana, Yusril Yusuf and Harno Dwi Pranowo

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070385 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1154

Abstract

A carbonate-hydroxyapatite-based antibacterial implant material with low cytotoxicity was synthesized. The silver ion (Ag⁺) was incorporated into CHA material, resulting in silver-doped carbonate hydroxyapatite (CHA-Ag). The microwave-assisted precipitation method was used to synthesize the CHA-Ag material. The amount of Ag⁺ [...] Read more.

A carbonate-hydroxyapatite-based antibacterial implant material with low cytotoxicity was synthesized. The silver ion (Ag⁺) was incorporated into CHA material, resulting in silver-doped carbonate hydroxyapatite (CHA-Ag). The microwave-assisted precipitation method was used to synthesize the CHA-Ag material. The amount of Ag⁺ was varied at 0.005, 0.010, and 0.015 mol fractions (

χ_{A g}

). The XRD results showed that the diffractograms corresponded with hydroxyapatite (ICSD 98-05-1414), without any additional phase. The presence of carbonate ions was indicated by vibrations at wavenumber of 871, 1411, and 1466 cm⁻¹ in the infrared spectra. The CHA-Ag materials were agglomerates of nanosized particles with low crystallinity. The particle size and crystallinity of the materials decreased due to the incorporation of CO₃²⁻ and Ag⁺. The incorporated Ag⁺ successfully inhibited peri-implant-associated bacterial growth. The antibacterial ability increased alongside the increase in the Ag⁺ amount. The pre-osteoblast MC3T3E1 cell could grow up to >70% in the MTT assay, despite the use of Ag⁺ as a dopant. The cell viability was higher in the CHA-Ag-containing media than in the CHA-containing media. The MTT assay also revealed that the CHA-Ag cytotoxicity decreased even though the Ag⁺ amount increased. The CHA-Ag-15 had the lowest cytotoxicity and highest antibacterial activity. Therefore, the optimal amount of Ag⁺ in the CHA-Ag formulation was

χ_{A g}

= 0.015. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Antibacterial Biomaterials)

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8 pages, 1181 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceOpinion

Comparative Evaluation of Mineralized Bone Allografts for Spinal Fusion Surgery

by Paul J. Hubbell, Brandon Roth and Jon E. Block

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070384 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 995

Abstract

The primary objective of this review is to evaluate whether the degree of processing and the clinical utility of commercially available mineralized bone allografts for spine surgery meet the 2020 US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) guideline definitions for minimal manipulation and homologous [...] Read more.

The primary objective of this review is to evaluate whether the degree of processing and the clinical utility of commercially available mineralized bone allografts for spine surgery meet the 2020 US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) guideline definitions for minimal manipulation and homologous use, respectively. We also assessed the consistency of performance of these products by examining the comparative postoperative radiographic fusion rates following spine surgery. Based on the FDA’s criteria for determining whether a structural allograft averts regulatory oversight and classification as a drug/device/biologic, mineralized bone allografts were judged to meet the Agency’s definitional descriptions for minimal manipulation and homologous use when complying with the American Association of Tissue Banks’ (AATB) accredited guidelines for bone allograft harvesting, processing, storing and transplanting. Thus, these products do not require FDA medical device clearance. Radiographic fusion rates achieved with mineralized bone allografts were uniformly high (>85%) across three published systematic reviews. Little variation was found in the fusion rates irrespective of anatomical location, allograft geometry, dimensions or indication, and in most cases, the rates were similar to those for autologous bone alone. Continued utilization of mineralized bone allografts should be encouraged across all spine surgery applications where supplemental grafts and/or segmental stability are required to support mechanically solid arthrodeses. Full article

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20 pages, 3550 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Immobilisation of Cellobiose Dehydrogenase and Laccase on Chitosan Particles as a Multi-Enzymatic System for the Synthesis of Lactobionic Acid

by Justyna Sulej, Wiktoria Piątek-Gołda, Marcin Grąz, Katarzyna Szałapata, Piotr Waśko, Ewa Janik-Zabrotowicz and Monika Osińska-Jaroszuk

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070383 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1247

Abstract

Lactobionic acid (LBA) is a bioactive compound that has become increasingly popular in medicine in recent years due to its unique properties. This chemical can be formed via the enzymatic oxidation of lactose using fungal oxidoreductive enzymes. This study aimed to intensify the [...] Read more.

Lactobionic acid (LBA) is a bioactive compound that has become increasingly popular in medicine in recent years due to its unique properties. This chemical can be formed via the enzymatic oxidation of lactose using fungal oxidoreductive enzymes. This study aimed to intensify the synthesis of LBA using immobilised enzymes (cellobiose dehydrogenase from Phanerochaete chrysosporium (PchCDH) and laccase from Cerrena unicolor (CuLAC)) on chitosan microspheres. We used three different crosslinking agents: genipin, glutaraldehyde, and polyethyleneimine to activate the chitosan. The FTIR and CellDrop techniques were used to characterise the activated microspheres. Quantitative (HPLC) and qualitative (TLC) methods were used to determine the obtained LBA. The results show that the type of activator used influences the efficiency of the binding of the enzyme to the matrix. Furthermore, the amount of LBA formed depends on the type of system used. The use of a system in which one of the enzymes is immobilised on a PEI-activated carrier (PchCDH) and the other is free (CuLAC) proved to be the most optimal, as it yielded almost 100% conversion of lactose to lactobionic acid. Summarising the data obtained the following: lactobionic acid immobilised on chitosan microspheres has great potential for medical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chitosan Microparticles: Development, Characterization and Biomedical Applications)

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13 pages, 2265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Convenient and Controllable Synthesis of Poly(2-oxazoline)-Conjugated Doxorubicin for Regulating Anti-Tumor Selectivity

by Min Zhou, Ruxin Cui, Zhengjie Luo, Zihao Cong, Ning Shao, Ling Yuan, Jiawei Gu, Hongyan He and Runhui Liu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070382 - 21 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1050

Abstract

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)–doxorubicin (DOX) conjugation is an important strategy to improve toxicity and enhance clinically therapeutic efficacy. However, with the frequent use of PEG-modified drugs, the accumulation of anti-PEG antibodies has become a tough issue, which limits the application of PEG–drug conjugation. As [...] Read more.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)–doxorubicin (DOX) conjugation is an important strategy to improve toxicity and enhance clinically therapeutic efficacy. However, with the frequent use of PEG-modified drugs, the accumulation of anti-PEG antibodies has become a tough issue, which limits the application of PEG–drug conjugation. As an alternative solution, poly(2-oxazoline) (POX)−DOX conjugation has shown great potential in the anti-tumor field, but the reported conjugation process of POX with DOX has drawbacks such as complex synthetic steps and purification. Herein, we propose a convenient and controllable strategy for the synthesis of POX−DOX conjugation with different chain lengths and narrow dispersity by N-boc-2-bromoacetohydrazide-initiated 2-ethyl-oxazoline polymerization and the subsequent deprotection of the N-Boc group and direct reaction with DOX. The DOX−PEtOx conjugates were firstly purified, and the successful conjugations were confirmed through various characterization methods. The synthetic DOX−PEtOx_n conjugates reduce the toxicity of DOX and increase the selectivity to tumor cells, reflecting the promising application of this POX−DOX conjugation strategy in drug modification and development. Full article

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17 pages, 2360 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combined System for the Simultaneous Delivery of Levofloxacin and Rifampicin: Structural and Functional Properties and Antibacterial Activity

by Irina M. Le-Deygen, Polina V. Mamaeva, Anna A. Skuredina, Anastasia S. Safronova, Natalia G. Belogurova and Elena V. Kudryashova

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070381 - 20 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1010

Abstract

The therapy of resistant forms of tuberculosis requires the simultaneous use of several drugs, in particular, a combination of rifampicin and levofloxacin. In this paper, we aimed to design a combined system for the simultaneous delivery of these drugs for potential inhalation administration. [...] Read more.

The therapy of resistant forms of tuberculosis requires the simultaneous use of several drugs, in particular, a combination of rifampicin and levofloxacin. In this paper, we aimed to design a combined system for the simultaneous delivery of these drugs for potential inhalation administration. A feature of this system is the incorporation of rifampicin into optimized liposomal vesicles capable of forming a multipoint non-covalent complex with chitosan-β-cyclodextrin conjugates. Levofloxacin is incorporated into cyclodextrin tori by forming a host–guest complex. Here, a comprehensive study of the physicochemical properties of the obtained systems was carried out and special attention was paid to the kinetics of cargo release for individual drugs and in the combined system. The release of levofloxacin in combined system is slow and is described by the Higuchi model in all cases. The release of rifampicin from liposomes during the formation of complexes with polymeric conjugates is characterized by the change of the Higuchi model to the Korsmeyer–Peppas model with the main type of diffusion against Fick′s law. Microbiological studies in solid and liquid growth media a consistently high antibacterial activity of the obtained systems was shown against B. subtilis and E. coli. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Materials: Recent Advances in Methodologies and Regulations)

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11 pages, 1482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Various Beverages on Adhesion of Repaired CAD/CAM Restorative Materials

by Elif Yiğit, Hamiyet Güngör Erdoğan, Tan Fırat Eyüboğlu and Mutlu Özcan

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070380 - 20 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1061

Abstract

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of commonly consumed beverages on the bond strength of three different computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) resin–ceramic hybrid materials repaired with resin-based composite (RBC) materials. (2) Materials and Methods: Rectangular prism specimens [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of commonly consumed beverages on the bond strength of three different computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) resin–ceramic hybrid materials repaired with resin-based composite (RBC) materials. (2) Materials and Methods: Rectangular prism specimens (N = 138) measuring 6 mm × 5 mm × 2 mm were obtained from GC Cerasmart (GC), Lava Ultimate (LU), and Vita Enamic (VE) blocks. These blocks were polished and then subjected to thermal cycling (10,000 cycles, 5 °C to 55 °C). After the surface treatment was applied, the average surface roughness value was measured. All the surfaces were repaired with RBC. Thermal cycling was performed for the second time. Each group was then distributed into three subgroups according to the beverage used: tea (t), cola (c), and distilled water (0) (n = 15). The specimens were stored in these solutions for 28 days and then subjected to the shear bond strength (SBS) test. Statistical analysis was performed using a two-way ANOVA test with Bonferroni adjustment. (3) Results: The surface roughness of the materials presented no significant difference after different surface treatments (p > 0.05). No significant difference was observed among the materials (p > 0.05). Tea and cola presented similar SBS values (p > 0.05). Both were significantly lower than distilled water (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). (4) Conclusions: Consumption of beverages reduces the bond strength in surfaces repaired with RBC to CAD/CAM resin–ceramic hybrid materials. (5) Clinical Significance: Repairing damaged resin matrix dental restorations with RBC is advantageous in terms of time and cost by achieving adequate bond strengths. Frequently consumed beverages reduce the bond strength of repaired CAD/CAM resin–ceramic hybrid materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Conservative Dentistry and Prosthodontics)

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16 pages, 5112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles: Antifungal and Cytotoxic Potential for Further Dental Applications

by Widadh Klein, Enas Ismail, Ernest Maboza, Ahmed A. Hussein and Razia Z. Adam

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070379 - 20 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1374

Abstract

Fungal infections caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans) are one of the most prevalent types of oral disorders in the elderly. It has been reported that drug resistance to fungal pathogens poses a severe risk to global healthcare systems and public [...] Read more.

Fungal infections caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans) are one of the most prevalent types of oral disorders in the elderly. It has been reported that drug resistance to fungal pathogens poses a severe risk to global healthcare systems and public health. Therefore, the goal of this work is to investigate the cytotoxic and antifungal properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced using three different natural extracts: Berzelia lanuginose, Helichrysum cymosum, and Searsia crenata. According to the UV-Vis results, the synthesized AgNPs via B. lanuginose, H. cymosum, and S. crenata show surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) peaks at 430, 440, and 428 nm, respectively. HR-TEM revealed different shapes for the nanoparticles within the size ranges of 16–20, 31–60, and 57–72 nm for B. lanuginose, H. cymosum, and S. crenata, respectively. Using a human oral fibroblast cell line, the cytotoxicity of both AgNPs and plant extracts was tested at concentrations of 0.007, 0.012, 0.025, and 0.062 mg/mL (buccal mucosa fibroblasts). The antifungal activity showed growth inhibition zones of approximately 18 mm, 18.67 mm, and 18.33 mm for the AgNPs conjugated with B. lanuginose, H. cymosum, and S. crenata, respectively. For the studied samples, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC₅₀) was less than 0.015 mg/mL. The AgNPs exhibited antifungal activity that was concentration- and size-dependent. The results of this study offer new insights into the cytotoxicity and antifungal activity of the green-synthesized AgNPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Conservative Dentistry and Prosthodontics)

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29 pages, 8805 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Treatment of Multifunctional Substituted Hydroxyapatite with Prospective Applications in Bone Regeneration

by Alexandra-Cristina Burdusel, Ionela Andreea Neacsu, Alexandra Catalina Birca, Cristina Chircov, Alexandru-Mihai Grumezescu, Alina Maria Holban, Carmen Curutiu, Lia Mara Ditu, Miruna Stan and Ecaterina Andronescu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070378 - 19 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1348

Abstract

Orthopedic bone graft infections are major complications in today’s medicine, and the demand for antibacterial treatments is expanding because of the spread of antibiotic resistance. Various compositions of hydroxyapatite (HAp) in which Calcium (Ca²⁺) ions are substituted with Cerium (Ce³⁺ [...] Read more.

Orthopedic bone graft infections are major complications in today’s medicine, and the demand for antibacterial treatments is expanding because of the spread of antibiotic resistance. Various compositions of hydroxyapatite (HAp) in which Calcium (Ca²⁺) ions are substituted with Cerium (Ce³⁺) and Magnesium (Mg²⁺) are herein proposed as biomaterials for hard tissue implants. This approach gained popularity in recent years and, in the pursuit of mimicking the natural bone mineral’s composition, over 70 elements of the Periodic Table were already reported as substituents into HAp structure. The current study aimed to create materials based on HAp, Hap-Ce, and Hap-Mg using hydrothermal maturation in the microwave field. This route has been considered a novel, promising, and effective way to obtain monodisperse, fine nanoparticles while easily controlling the synthesis parameters. The synthesized HAp powders were characterized morphologically and structurally by XRD diffraction, Dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, FTIR spectrometry, and SEM analysis. Proliferation and morphological analysis on osteoblast cell cultures were used to demonstrate the cytocompatibility of the produced biomaterials. The antimicrobial effect was highlighted in the synthesized samples, especially for hydroxyapatite substituted with cerium. Therefore, the samples of HAp substituted with cerium or magnesium are proposed as biomaterials with enhanced osseointegration, also having the capacity to reduce device-associated infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Materials: Recent Advances in Methodologies and Regulations)

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21 pages, 8587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Dynamic Strain Sweep on the Degradation Behavior of FeMnSi–Ag Shape Memory Alloys

by Ana-Maria Roman, Ramona Cimpoeșu, Bogdan Pricop, Nicoleta-Monica Lohan, Marius Mihai Cazacu, Leandru-Gheorghe Bujoreanu, Cătălin Panaghie, Georgeta Zegan, Nicanor Cimpoeșu and Alice Mirela Murariu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070377 - 19 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1180

Abstract

Iron-based SMAs can be used in the medical field for both their shape memory effect (SME) and biodegradability after a specific period, solving complicated chirurgical problems that are partially now addressed with shape-memory polymers or biodegradable polymers. Iron-based materials with (28–32 wt %) [...] Read more.

Iron-based SMAs can be used in the medical field for both their shape memory effect (SME) and biodegradability after a specific period, solving complicated chirurgical problems that are partially now addressed with shape-memory polymers or biodegradable polymers. Iron-based materials with (28–32 wt %) Mn and (4–6 wt %) Si with the addition of 1 and 2 wt % Ag were obtained using levitation induction melting equipment. Addition of silver to the FeMnSi alloy was proposed in order to enhance its antiseptic property. Structural and chemical composition analyses of the newly obtained alloys were performed by X-ray diffraction (confirming the presence of ε phase), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The corrosion resistance was evaluated through immersion tests and electrolyte pH solution variation. Dynamic mechanical solicitations were performed with amplitude sweep performed on the FeMnSi–1Ag and FeMnSi–2Ag samples, including five deformation cycles at 40 °C, with a frequency of 1 Hz, 5 Hz and 20 Hz. These experiments were meant to simulate the usual behavior of some metallic implants subjected to repetitive mechanical loading. Atomic force microscopy was used to analyze the surface roughness before and after the dynamic mechanical analysis test followed by the characterization of the surface profile change by varying dynamic mechanical stress. Differential scanning calorimetry was performed in order to analyze the thermal behavior of the material in the range of −50–+200 °C. X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) along with Neaspec nano-FTIR experiments were performed to identify and confirm the corrosion compounds (oxides, hydroxides or carbonates) formed on the surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion Science in Biodegradable Implants)

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18 pages, 4186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Er:YAG Laser Exposure on the Amorphous Smear Layer in the Marginal Zone of the Osteotomy Site for Placement of Dental Screw Implants: A Histomorphological Study

by Nikolay Kanazirski, Diyana Vladova, Deyan Neychev, Ralitsa Raycheva and Petya Kanazirska

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070376 - 18 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1539

Abstract

The placement of dental screw implants typically involves the use of rotary techniques and drills to create a bone bed. This study explores the potential benefits of combining this method with an Er:YAG laser. Split osteotomies were performed on 10 jaws of euthanized [...] Read more.

The placement of dental screw implants typically involves the use of rotary techniques and drills to create a bone bed. This study explores the potential benefits of combining this method with an Er:YAG laser. Split osteotomies were performed on 10 jaws of euthanized domestic pigs (Sus scrofa domestica), with 12 mandibular implant osteotomies in each jaw, divided into 4 groups. In order to make a comprehensive assessment of the effect of Er:YAG lasers, histomorphological techniques were used to measure the reduction in amorphous layer thickness after Er:YAG laser treatment, both with and without the placement of dental screw implants from different manufacturers. Following bone decalcification and staining, the thickness of the amorphous layer was measured in four groups: Group A—osteotomy performed without Er:YAG laser treatment—had amorphous layer thicknesses ranging from 21.813 to 222.13 µm; Group B—osteotomy performed with Er:YAG laser treatment—had amorphous layer thicknesses ranging from 6.08 to 64.64 µm; Group C—an implant placed in the bone without laser treatment—had amorphous layer thicknesses of 5.90 to 54.52 µm; and Group D—an implant placed after bone treatment with Er:YAG laser—had amorphous layer thicknesses of 1.29 to 7.98 µm. The examination and photomicrodocumentation was performed using a LEICA DM1000 LED microscope (Germany) and LAS V 4.8 software (Leica Application Suite V4, Leica Microsystems, Germany). When comparing group A to group B and group C to D, statistically significant differences were indicated (p-value = 0.000, p < 0.05). The study demonstrates the synergistic effects and the possibility of integrating lasers into the conventional implantation protocol. By applying our own method of biomodification, the smear layer formed during rotary osteotomy can be reduced using Er:YAG lasers. This reduction leads to a narrower peri-implant space and improved bone-to-implant contact, facilitating accelerated osseointegration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clinical and Experimental Research in Dentistry and Bioactive Materials)

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23 pages, 8382 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biological Activity and Thrombogenic Properties of Oxide Nanotubes on the Ti-13Nb-13Zr Biomedical Alloy

by Agnieszka Stróż, Maciej Gawlikowski, Katarzyna Balin, Patrycja Osak, Julian Kubisztal, Maciej Zubko, Joanna Maszybrocka, Karolina Dudek and Bożena Łosiewicz

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070375 - 18 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1174

Abstract

The success of implant treatment is dependent on the osseointegration of the implant. The main goal of this work was to improve the biofunctionality of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr implant alloy by the production of oxide nanotubes (ONTs) layers for better anchoring in the bone [...] Read more.

The success of implant treatment is dependent on the osseointegration of the implant. The main goal of this work was to improve the biofunctionality of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr implant alloy by the production of oxide nanotubes (ONTs) layers for better anchoring in the bone and use as an intelligent carrier in drug delivery systems. Anodization of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy was carried out in 0.5% HF, 1 M (NH₄)₂SO₄ + 2% NH₄F, and 1 M ethylene glycol + 4 wt.% NH₄F electrolytes. Physicochemical characteristics of ONTs were performed by high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning Kelvin probe (SKP). Water contact angle studies were conducted using the sitting airdrop method. In vitro biological properties and release kinetics of ibuprofen were investigated. The results of TEM and XPS studies confirmed the formation of the single-walled ONTs of three generations on the bi-phase (α + β) Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy. The ONTs were composed of oxides of the alloying elements. The proposed surface modification method ensured good hemolytic properties, no cytotoxity for L-929 mouse cells, good adhesion, increased surface wettability, and improved athrombogenic properties of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy. Nanotubular surfaces allowed ibuprofen to be released from the polymer matrix according to the Gallagher–Corrigan model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art in Biomaterials for Drug Delivery)

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19 pages, 3449 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Solid Lipid–Polymer Hybrid Nanoplatform for Topical Delivery of siRNA: In Vitro Biological Activity and Permeation Studies

by Margarete Moreno de Araujo, Livia Neves Borgheti-Cardoso, Fabíola Garcia Praça, Priscyla Daniely Marcato and Maria Vitória Lopes Badra Bentley

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070374 - 17 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1329

Abstract

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules have limited transfection efficiency and stability, necessitating the use of delivery systems to be effective in gene knockdown therapies. In this regard, lipid–polymeric nanocarriers have emerged as a promising class of nanoparticles for siRNA delivery, particularly for topical [...] Read more.

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules have limited transfection efficiency and stability, necessitating the use of delivery systems to be effective in gene knockdown therapies. In this regard, lipid–polymeric nanocarriers have emerged as a promising class of nanoparticles for siRNA delivery, particularly for topical applications. We proposed the use of solid lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles (SLPHNs) as topical delivery systems for siRNA. This approach was evaluated by assessing the ability of SLPHNs–siRNA complexes to internalize siRNA molecules and both to penetrate skin layers in vitro and induce gene knocking down in a skin cell line. The SLPHNs were formed by a specific composition of solid lipids, a surfactant polymer as a dispersive agent, and a cationic polymer as a complexing agent for siRNA. The optimized nanocarriers exhibited a spherical shape with a smooth surface. The average diameter of the nanoparticles was found to be 200 nm, and the zeta potential was measured to be +20 mV. Furthermore, these nanocarriers demonstrated excellent stability when stored at 4 °C over a period of 90 days. In vitro and in vivo permeation studies showed that SLPHNs increased the cutaneous penetration of fluorescent-labeled siRNA, which reached deeper skin layers. Efficacy studies were conducted on keratinocytes and fibroblasts, showing that SLPHNs maintained cell viability and high cellular uptake. Furthermore, SLPHNs complexed with siRNA against Firefly luciferase (siLuc) reduced luciferase expression, proving the efficacy of this nanocarrier in providing adequate intracellular release of siRNA for silencing specific genes. Based on these results, the developed carriers are promising siRNA delivery systems for skin disease therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Biomedical Materials and Their Applications)

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29 pages, 2942 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bubble-Based Drug Delivery Systems: Next-Generation Diagnosis to Therapy

by Mihaela Kancheva, Lauren Aronson, Tara Pattilachan, Francesco Sautto, Benjamin Daines, Donald Thommes, Angela Shar and Mehdi Razavi

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070373 - 17 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2397

Abstract

Current radiologic and medication administration is systematic and has widespread side effects; however, the administration of microbubbles and nanobubbles (MNBs) has the possibility to provide therapeutic and diagnostic information without the same ramifications. Microbubbles (MBs), for instance, have been used for ultrasound (US) [...] Read more.

Current radiologic and medication administration is systematic and has widespread side effects; however, the administration of microbubbles and nanobubbles (MNBs) has the possibility to provide therapeutic and diagnostic information without the same ramifications. Microbubbles (MBs), for instance, have been used for ultrasound (US) imaging due to their ability to remain in vessels when exposed to ultrasonic waves. On the other hand, nanobubbles (NBs) can be used for further therapeutic benefits, including chronic treatments for osteoporosis and cancer, gene delivery, and treatment for acute conditions, such as brain infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Clinical trials are also being conducted for different administrations and utilizations of MNBs. Overall, there are large horizons for the benefits of MNBs in radiology, general medicine, surgery, and many more medical applications. As such, this review aims to evaluate the most recent publications from 2016 to 2022 to report the current uses and innovations for MNBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles and Hydrogel for Drug Delivery: Design and Synthesis)

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10 pages, 2974 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceCommunication

Decontaminative Properties of Cold Atmospheric Plasma Treatment on Collagen Membranes Used for Guided Bone Regeneration

by Aydin Gülses, Lina Dohrmann, Oral Cenk Aktas, Juliane Wagner, Salih Veziroglu, Tim Tjardts, Torge Hartig, Kim Rouven Liedtke, Jörg Wiltfang, Yahya Acil and Christian Flörke

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070372 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1174

Abstract

Background cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is known to be a surface-friendly yet antimicrobial and activating process for surfaces such as titanium. The aim of the present study was to describe the decontaminating effects of CAP on contaminated collagen membranes and their influence on [...] Read more.

Background cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is known to be a surface-friendly yet antimicrobial and activating process for surfaces such as titanium. The aim of the present study was to describe the decontaminating effects of CAP on contaminated collagen membranes and their influence on the properties of this biomaterial in vitro. Material and Methods: A total of n = 18 Bio-Gide^® (Geistlich Biomaterials, Baden-Baden, Germany) membranes were examined. The intervention group was divided as follows: n = 6 membranes were treated for one minute, and n = 6 membranes were treated for five minutes with CAP using kINPen^® MED (neoplas tools GmbH, Greifswald, Germany) with an output of 5 W, respectively. A non-CAP-treated group (n = 6) served as the control. The topographic alterations were evaluated via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Afterward, the samples were contaminated with E. faecalis for 6 days, and colony-forming unit (CFU) counts and additional SEM analyses were performed. The CFUs increased with CAP treatment time in our analyses, but SEM showed that the surface of the membranes was essentially free from bacteria. However, the deeper layers showed remaining microbial conglomerates. Furthermore, we showed, via XPS analysis, that increasing the CAP time significantly enhances the carbon (carbonyl group) concentration, which also correlates negatively with the decontaminating effects of CAP. Conclusions: Reactive carbonyl groups offer a potential mechanism for inhibiting the growth of E. faecalis on collagen membranes after cold atmospheric plasma treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bone Biomaterials)

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19 pages, 17535 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bioprinted 3D Bionic Scaffolds with Pancreatic Islets as a New Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes—Analysis of the Results of Preclinical Studies on a Mouse Model

by Marta Klak, Michał Wszoła, Andrzej Berman, Anna Filip, Anna Kosowska, Joanna Olkowska-Truchanowicz, Michał Rachalewski, Grzegorz Tymicki, Tomasz Bryniarski, Marta Kołodziejska, Tomasz Dobrzański, Dominika Ujazdowska, Jarosław Wejman, Izabela Uhrynowska-Tyszkiewicz and Artur Kamiński

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070371 - 14 Jul 2023

Viewed by 2263

Abstract

Recently, tissue engineering, including 3D bioprinting of the pancreas, has acquired clinical significance and has become an outstanding potential method of customized treatment for type 1 diabetes mellitus. The study aimed to evaluate the function of 3D-bioprinted pancreatic petals with pancreatic islets in [...] Read more.

Recently, tissue engineering, including 3D bioprinting of the pancreas, has acquired clinical significance and has become an outstanding potential method of customized treatment for type 1 diabetes mellitus. The study aimed to evaluate the function of 3D-bioprinted pancreatic petals with pancreatic islets in the murine model. A total of 60 NOD-SCID (Nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency) mice were used in the study and divided into three groups: control group; IsletTx (porcine islets transplanted under the renal capsule); and 3D bioprint (3D-bioprinted pancreatic petals with islets transplanted under the skin, on dorsal muscles). Glucose, C-peptide concentrations, and histological analyses were performed. In the obtained results, significantly lower mean fasting glucose levels (mg/dL) were observed both in a 3D-bioprint group and in a group with islets transplanted under the renal capsule when compared with untreated animals. Differences were observed in all control points: 7th, 14th, and 28th days post-transplantation (129, 119, 118 vs. 140, 139, 140; p < 0.001). Glucose levels were lower on the 14th and 28th days in a group with bioprinted petals compared to the group with islets transplanted under the renal capsule. Immunohistochemical staining indicated the presence of secreted insulin-living pancreatic islets and neovascularization within 3D-bioprinted pancreatic petals after transplantation. In conclusion, bioprinted bionic petals significantly lowered plasma glucose concentration in studied model species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)

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19 pages, 11999 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Implant Surface Modification with Nanohydroxyapatite Associated with the Use of L-PRF: In Vivo Study in Rats

by José Augusto Gabarra Júnior, Fernando Nóbrega, Paula Gabriela Oliveira, Edmara Tatiely Bergamo, Uislen Cadore, Milene Zezzi do Valle Gomes, Per Kjellin, Liat Chaushu, Fabio Bezerra, Bruna Ghiraldini and Sergio Scombatti de Souza

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070370 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1177

Abstract

Leukocyte–platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) contains growth factors that stimulate bone regeneration. This study evaluated the bone repair in a tibia rat model around two implant surfaces in combination or not with L-PRF by assessing microtomographic and histomorphometric parameters. A total of 48 female rats [...] Read more.

Leukocyte–platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) contains growth factors that stimulate bone regeneration. This study evaluated the bone repair in a tibia rat model around two implant surfaces in combination or not with L-PRF by assessing microtomographic and histomorphometric parameters. A total of 48 female rats were used in the study, in which 24 received implants with two types of surface treatments (dual acid etched—DAE or nanohydroxyapatite—nanoHA), and the other 24 received the same mini implants with L-PRF, which was collected by cardiac puncture, centrifugated, and inserted in the bone bed. The animals were euthanized 7 and 30 days after implant placement, and the retrieved samples were prepared for microtomographic and histomorphometric (bone-to-implant contact—BIC; and Bone Area Fraction Occupancy—BAFO) analyses. The adhesion of the nanoHA surface onto the implant surface was investigated by insertion and removal in simulated bone medium (Sawbones). The adhesion evaluation revealed that the loss of nanoHA after this procedure (as measured with SEM) from the implant surface was less than 1%. Overall, the nanoHA surface presented more bone in contact and in proximity to the implant, a higher bone surface/tissue volume fraction, a higher number of bone trabeculae, as well as trabecular separation relative to the DAE surface. Such results were more evident when the nanoHA surface was combined with L-PRF and after 30 days in vivo. The nanoHA surface presented higher BAFO when compared to DAE, with or without association with L-PRF. Therefore, implants with a nanoHA surface potentially benefit from the association to L-PRF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Biomaterials and Implants for Dentistry)

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17 pages, 6465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibacterial Biomaterial Based on Bioglass Modified with Copper for Implants Coating

by Imen Hammami, Sílvia Rodrigues Gavinho, Suresh Kumar Jakka, Manuel Almeida Valente, Manuel Pedro Fernandes Graça, Ana Sofia Pádua, Jorge Carvalho Silva, Isabel Sá-Nogueira and João Paulo Borges

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070369 - 13 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1334

Abstract

Biofilm-related implant infections pose a substantial threat to patients, leading to inflammation in the surrounding tissue, and often resulting in implant loss and the necessity for additional surgeries. Overcoming this implantology challenge is crucial to ensure the success and durability of implants. This [...] Read more.

Biofilm-related implant infections pose a substantial threat to patients, leading to inflammation in the surrounding tissue, and often resulting in implant loss and the necessity for additional surgeries. Overcoming this implantology challenge is crucial to ensure the success and durability of implants. This study shows the development of antibacterial materials for implant coatings by incorporating copper into 45S5 Bioglass^®. By combining the regenerative properties of Bioglass^® with the antimicrobial effects of copper, this material has the potential to prevent infections, enhance osseointegration and improve the long-term success of implants. Bioglasses modified with various concentrations of CuO (from 0 to 8 mol%) were prepared with the melt-quenching technique. Structural analysis using Raman and FTIR spectroscopies did not reveal significant alterations in the bioglasses structure with the addition of Cu. The antibacterial activity of the samples was assessed against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and the results demonstrated significant inhibition of bacterial growth for the bioglass with 0.5 mol% of CuO. Cell viability studies indicated that the samples modified with up to 4 mol% of CuO maintained good cytocompatibility with the Saos-2 cell line at extract concentrations up to 25 mg/mL. Furthermore, the bioactivity assessment demonstrated the formation of a calcium phosphate (CaP)-rich layer on the surfaces of all bioglasses within 24 h. Our findings show that the inclusion of copper in the bioglass offers a significant enhancement in its potential as a coating material for implants, resulting in notable advancements in both antibacterial efficacy and osteointegration properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Materials: Recent Advances in Methodologies and Regulations)

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15 pages, 2379 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibacterial and Antihemolytic Activity of New Biomaterial Based on Glycyrrhizic Acid and Quercetin (GAQ) against Staphylococcus aureus

by Ewa Olchowik-Grabarek, Krzysztof Czerkas, Alimjon Davletboevich Matchanov, Rahmat Sulton Esanov, Umarbek Davlatboevich Matchanov, Maria Zamaraeva and Szymon Sekowski

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070368 - 13 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1261

Abstract

The goal of this study is to obtain and characterize the complex of quercetin with glycyrrhizic acid, which is known to serve as a drug delivery system. Quercetin is a flavonoid with a wide range of biological activities, including an antimicrobial effect. However, [...] Read more.

The goal of this study is to obtain and characterize the complex of quercetin with glycyrrhizic acid, which is known to serve as a drug delivery system. Quercetin is a flavonoid with a wide range of biological activities, including an antimicrobial effect. However, quercetin instability and low bioavailability that limits its use in medical practice makes it necessary to look for new nanoformulations of it. The formation of the GAQ complex (2:1) was confirmed by using UV and FT-IR spectroscopies. It was found that the GAQ exhibited antimicrobial and antihemolytical activities against S. aureus bacteria and its main virulent factor—α-hemolysin. The IC₅₀ value for the antihemolytical effect of GAQ was 1.923 ± 0.255 µg/mL. Using a fluorescence method, we also showed that the GAQ bound tightly to the toxin that appears to underlie its antihemolytic activity. In addition, another mechanism of the antihemolytic activity of the GAQ against α-hemolysin was shown, namely, its ability to increase the rigidity of the outer layer of the erythrocyte membrane and thus inhibit the incorporation of α-hemolysin into the target cells, increasing their resistance to the toxin. Both of these effects of GAQ were observed at concentrations below the MIC value for S. aureus growth, indicating the potential of the complex as an antivirulence agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tannins and Other Polyphenols as Functional Biomaterials)

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14 pages, 17211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adhesion and Surface Roughness of Apatite-Containing Carbomer and Improved Ionically Bioactive Resin Compared to Glass Ionomers

by Handan Yıldırım Işık and Aylin Çilingir

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070367 - 12 Jul 2023

Viewed by 973

Abstract

The surface roughness of different glass–ionomer-based materials and their shear bond strength with a resin composite with and without thermal cycling were evaluated. Ketac Molar (KM, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA), Glass Carbomer (GC, GCP Dental, Leiden, The Netherlands), Bioactive (BA, PULPDENT, [...] Read more.

The surface roughness of different glass–ionomer-based materials and their shear bond strength with a resin composite with and without thermal cycling were evaluated. Ketac Molar (KM, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA), Glass Carbomer (GC, GCP Dental, Leiden, The Netherlands), Bioactive (BA, PULPDENT, Corporation, Watertown, MA, USA) and Fuji II LC (FJ, GC, Tokyo, Japan) were used to prepare the specimens and they were kept in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h. The surface roughness of the specimens was measured with a profilometer (n = 6). A universal adhesive resin was applied on glass–ionomer materials and cylindrical universal composites were applied and polymerized, respectively (n = 16). The specimens were divided into two subgroups. The first subgroup was subjected to thermal cycling. Shear bond strength was investigated for both subgroups (n = 8). Stereomicroscopy and SEM examinations were performed. The roughest surface was obtained in the GC group (p < 0.05). The shear bond strength of the specimens without thermal cycling was higher than that of those with thermal cycling (p < 0.05). The lowest shear bond was measured in the GC group (p < 0.05). Although FJ, KM and BA have been observed to be suitable materials for clinical use, BA, in particular, is evidenced to become the best option among the materials we tested. GC cement’s long-term performance needs to be improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resin-Matrix Composites and Cements for Dental Restorations)

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15 pages, 4982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling the Potential of Rice Straw Nanofiber-Reinforced HDPE for Biomedical Applications: Investigating Mechanical and Tribological Characteristics

by Mohamed Taha, Ahmed Fouly, Hany S. Abdo, Ibrahim A. Alnaser, Ragab Abouzeid and Ahmed Nabhan

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070366 - 12 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1078

Abstract

The efficient utilization of rice waste has the potential to significantly contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing the waste impact on the environment. Through repurposing such waste, novel materials can be developed for various biomedical applications. This approach not only mitigates waste, but [...] Read more.

The efficient utilization of rice waste has the potential to significantly contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing the waste impact on the environment. Through repurposing such waste, novel materials can be developed for various biomedical applications. This approach not only mitigates waste, but it also promotes the adoption of sustainable materials within the industry. In this research, rice-straw-derived nanofibers (RSNFs) were utilized as a reinforcement material for high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The rice-straw-derived nanofibers were incorporated at different concentrations (1, 2, 3, and 4 wt.%) into the HDPE. The composites were fabricated using twin-screw extrusion (to ensure homogenous distribution) and the injection-molding process (to crease the test samples). Then, the mechanical strengths and frictional performances of the bio-composites were assessed. Different characterization techniques were utilized to investigate the morphology of the RSNFs. Thermal analyses (TGA/DTG/DSC), the contact angle, and XRD were utilized to study the performances of the HDPE/RSNF composites. The study findings demonstrated that the addition of RSNFs as a reinforcement to the HDPE improved the hydrophilicity, strength, hardness, and wear resistance of the proposed bio-composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles: Fabrication, Properties and Biomedical Application)

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14 pages, 3303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

VEGF Detection via Impedance Spectroscopy on Surface Functionalized Interdigitated Biosensor

by Yue-Der Lin, Serge Ismael Zida, Chu-Chun Yang and Yit Lung Khung

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070365 - 12 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1063

Abstract

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a clinically important biomarker, often plays a key role in angiogenesis, would healing, tumor growth, lung development, and in retinal diseases. Hence, detecting and quantifying VEGF is deemed medically important in clinical diagnosis for many diseases. In this [...] Read more.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a clinically important biomarker, often plays a key role in angiogenesis, would healing, tumor growth, lung development, and in retinal diseases. Hence, detecting and quantifying VEGF is deemed medically important in clinical diagnosis for many diseases. In this report, a simple yet highly cost-effective platform was proposed for VEGF protein detection using commercially available interdigitated sensors that are surface modified to present DNA optimally for VEGF capture. The dielectric characteristics between the fingers of the sensor were modulated by the negatively charged aptamer-VEGF capture, and the impedance was estimated using an impedance analyzer. Impedance-spectra tests were compared among pristine unmodified surfaces, functionalized monolayer surfaces, and aptamer-grafted surfaces in order to evaluate the efficacy of VEGF detection. From our results, the sensitivity experiments as conducted showed the ability of the interdigitated sensor to detect VEGF at a low concentration of 5 pM (200 pg/mL). The specificity of the functionalized sensor in detecting VEGF was further examined by comparing the impedance to platelet-derived growth factor, and the results confirm the specificity of the sensor. Finally, the Nyquist plot of impedance spectra was also presented to help data visualization and the overall performance of the device was found to be a highly suitable template for a smart biosensor for the detection of VEGF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Nanomaterials and Nanobiosensors: Synthesis, Characterization and Medical Application)

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18 pages, 3533 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Boron Content Enhances Bioactive Glass Biodegradation

by Amina Gharbi, Hassane Oudadesse, Hafedh el Feki, Wissem Cheikhrouhou-Koubaa, Xanthippi Chatzistavrou, Julietta V. Rau, Jyrki Heinämäki, Iulian Antoniac, Nureddin Ashammakhi and Nabil Derbel

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070364 - 11 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1324

Abstract

Derived Hench bioactive glass (BaG) containing boron (B) is explored in this work as it plays an important role in bone development and regeneration. B was also found to enhance BaG dissociation. However, it is only possible to incorporate a limited amount of [...] Read more.

Derived Hench bioactive glass (BaG) containing boron (B) is explored in this work as it plays an important role in bone development and regeneration. B was also found to enhance BaG dissociation. However, it is only possible to incorporate a limited amount of B. To increase the amount of B in BaG, bioactive borosilicate glasses (BaG-B_x) were fabricated based on the use of the solution-gelation process (sol-gel). In this work, a high B content (20 wt.%) in BaG, respecting the conditions of bioactivity and biodegradability required by Hench, was achieved for the first time. The capability of BaG-B_x to form an apatite phase was assessed in vitro by immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF). Then, the chemical structure and the morphological changes in the fabricated BaG-B_x (x = 0, 5, 10 and 20) were studied. The formation of hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer was observed with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The presence of HAp layer was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Enhanced bioactivity and chemical stability of BaG-B_x were evaluated with an ion exchange study based on Inductively Coupled Plasma–Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Results indicate that by increasing the concentration of B in BaG-Bx, the crystallization rate and the quality of the newly formed HAp layer on BaG-B_x surfaces can be improved. The presence of B also leads to enhanced degradation of BaGs in SBF. Accordingly, BAG-B_x can be used for bone regeneration, especially in children, because of its faster degradation as compared to B-free glass. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Glasses in Medical Applications)

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15 pages, 9838 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Collagen and Beyond: A Comprehensive Comparison of Human ECM Properties Derived from Various Tissue Sources for Regenerative Medicine Applications

by Nashaita Y. Patrawalla, Nilabh S. Kajave, Mohammad Z. Albanna and Vipuil Kishore

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070363 - 11 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1784

Abstract

Collagen, along with proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins, and various growth factors, forms the extracellular matrix (ECM) and contributes to the complexity and diversity of different tissues. Herein, we compared the physicochemical and biological properties of ECM hydrogels derived from four different human tissues: skin, [...] Read more.

Collagen, along with proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins, and various growth factors, forms the extracellular matrix (ECM) and contributes to the complexity and diversity of different tissues. Herein, we compared the physicochemical and biological properties of ECM hydrogels derived from four different human tissues: skin, bone, fat, and birth. Pure human collagen type I hydrogels were used as control. Physical characterization of ECM hydrogels and assessment of cell response of cord-tissue mesenchymal stem cells (CMSCs) were performed. Decellularization efficiency was found to be >90% for all ECM. Hydroxyproline quantification assay showed that collagen content in birth ECM was comparable to collagen control and significantly greater than other sources of ECM. Sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis showed the presence of γ, β, α₁ and α₂ collagen chains in all ECMs. Gelation kinetics of ECM hydrogels was significantly slower than collagen control. Compressive modulus of skin ECM was the highest and birth ECM was the lowest. Skin and birth ECM hydrogels were more stable than bone and fat ECM hydrogels. CMSCs encapsulated in birth ECM hydrogels exhibited the highest metabolic activity. Rheological characterization revealed that all ECM-derived inks exhibited shear thinning properties, and skin-derived ECM inks were most suitable for extrusion-based bioprinting for the concentration and printing conditions used in this study. Overall, results demonstrate that the physicochemical and biological properties of ECM hydrogels vary significantly depending on the tissue source. Therefore, careful selection of tissue source is important for development of ECM-based biomimetic tissue constructs for regenerative medicine applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collagen-Based Materials for Biomedical Applications)

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20 pages, 4946 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Potential Effect of Circadian Rhythm in the Delivery/Therapeutic Performance of Paclitaxel–Dendrimer Nanosystems

by Tânia Albuquerque, Ana Raquel Neves, Milan Paul, Swati Biswas, Elena Vuelta, Ignacio García-Tuñón, Manuel Sánchez-Martin, Telma Quintela and Diana Costa

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070362 - 11 Jul 2023

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Abstract

The circadian clock controls behavior and physiology. Presently, there is clear evidence of a connection between this timing system and cancer development/progression. Moreover, circadian rhythm consideration in the therapeutic action of anticancer drugs can enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapy. Nanosized drug delivery [...] Read more.

The circadian clock controls behavior and physiology. Presently, there is clear evidence of a connection between this timing system and cancer development/progression. Moreover, circadian rhythm consideration in the therapeutic action of anticancer drugs can enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapy. Nanosized drug delivery systems (DDS) have been demonstrated to be suitable engineered platforms for drug targeted/sustained release. The investigation of the chronobiology-nanotechnology relationship, i.e., timing DDS performance according to a patient’s circadian rhythm, may greatly improve cancer clinical outcomes. In the present work, we synthesized nanosystems based on an octa-arginine (R8)-modified poly(amidoamine) dendrimer conjugated with the anticancer drug paclitaxel (PTX), G4-PTX-R8, and its physicochemical properties were revealed to be appropriate for in vitro delivery. The influence of the circadian rhythm on its cellular internalization efficiency and potential therapeutic effect on human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) was studied. Cell-internalized PTX and caspase activity, as a measure of induced apoptosis, were monitored for six time points. Higher levels of PTX and caspase-3/9 were detected at T8, suggesting that the internalization of G4-PTX-R8 into HeLa cells and apoptosis are time-specific/-regulated phenomena. For a deeper understanding, the clock protein Bmal1—the main regulator of rhythmic activity, was silenced by Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) technology. Bmal1 silencing was revealed to have an impact on both PTX release and caspase activity, evidencing a potential role for circadian rhythm on drug delivery/therapeutic effect mediated by G4-PTX-R8. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials Applied in Drug Delivery)

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J. Funct. Biomater., Volume 14, Issue 7 (July 2023) – 60 articles

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