Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Medicine

Wang, Jun; Wang, Liguo; Guan, Shaokang; Zhu, Shijie; Ren, Chenxing; Hou, Shusen

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4063-zpmid: 20352299

Magnesium alloy stent has been employed in animal and clinical experiment in recent years. It has been verified to be biocompatible and degradable due to corrosion after being implanted into blood vessel. Mg–Y–Gd–Nd alloy is usually used to construct an absorbable magnesium alloy stent. However, the corrosion resistant of as cast Mg–Y–Gd–Nd alloy is poor relatively and the control of corrosion rate is difficult. Aiming at the requirement of endovascular stent in clinic, a new biomedical Mg–Zn–Y–Nd alloy with low Zn and Y content (Zn/Y atom ratio 6) was designed, which exists quasicrystals to improve its corrosion resistance. Additionally, sub-rapid solidification processing was applied for preparation of corrosion-resisting Mg–Zn–Y–Nd and Mg–Y–Gd–Nd alloys. Compared with the as cast sample, the corrosion behavior of alloys in dynamic simulated body fluid (SBF) (the speed of body fluid: 16 ml/800 ml min−1) was investigated. The results show that as sub-rapid solidification Mg–Zn–Y–Nd alloy has the better corrosion resistance in dynamic SBF due to grain refinement and fine dispersion distribution of the quasicrystals and intermetallic compounds in α-Mg matrix. In the as cast sample, both Mg–Zn–Y–Nd and Mg–Y–Gd–Nd alloys exhibit poor corrosion resistance. Mg–Zn–Y–Nd alloy by sub-rapid solidification processing provides excellent corrosion resistance in dynamic SBF, which open a new window for biomedical materials design, especially for vascular stent application.

Karlinsey, Robert; Mackey, Allen; Walker, Emily; Frederick, Katherine

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4064-ypmid: 20364363

A hybrid material comprised of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was prepared using a mechanochemical process, examined using particle size analysis, IR spectroscopy, 31P, 23Na, and 13C solid-state NMR spectroscopy, and calcium dissolution experiments, and probed for in vitro remineralization of subsurface enamel lesions. Our results suggest that while the 31P environments of β-TCP remain unchanged during solid-state processing, there is noticeable shifting among the SLS 23Na and 13C environments. Therefore, given the structure of β-TCP, along with our IR examinations and calcium dissolution isotherms, SLS appears to interface strongly with the cation deficient C3 symmetry site of the β-TCP hexagonal crystal lattice with probable emphasis placed on the underbonded CaO3 polyhedra. To demonstrate the utility of the surface-active TCP material in dental applications, we combined the TCP–SLS with 5,000 ppm F (NaF) and evaluated the remineralization potential of subsurface enamel lesions via an in vitro remineralization/demineralization pH cycling dental model. Using surface and longitudinal microhardness measurements, the TCP–SLS plus 5,000 ppm F system was found to significantly boost remineralization of subsurface enamel lesions, with microhardness values increasing up to 30% greater than fluoride alone.

Sánchez-De Jesús, F.; Bolarín-Miró, A.; Torres-Villaseñor, G.; Cortés-Escobedo, C.; Betancourt-Cantera, J.

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4066-9pmid: 20364362

We report on an alternative route for the synthesis of crystalline Co–28Cr–6Mo alloy, which could be used for surgical implants. Co, Cr and Mo elemental powders, mixed in an adequate weight relation according to ISO Standard 58342-4 (ISO, 1996), were used for the mechanical alloying (MA) of nano-structured Co-alloy. The process was carried out at room temperature in a shaker mixer mill using hardened steel balls and vials as milling media, with a 1:8 ball:powder weight ratio. Crystalline structure characterization of milled powders was carried out by X-ray diffraction in order to analyze the phase transformations as a function of milling time. The aim of this work was to evaluate the alloying mechanism involved in the mechanical alloying of Co–28Cr–6Mo alloy. The evolution of the phase transformations with milling time is reported for each mixture. Results showed that the resultant alloy is a Co-alpha solid solution, successfully obtained by mechanical alloying after a total of 10 h of milling time: first Cr and Mo are mechanically prealloyed for 7 h, and then Co is mixed in for 3 h. In addition, different methods of premixing were studied. The particle size of the powders is reduced with increasing milling time, reaching about 5 μm at 10 h; a longer time promotes the formation of aggregates. The morphology and crystal structure of milled powders as a function of milling time were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and XR diffraction.

Davidovich-Pinhas, Maya; Bianco-Peled, Havazelet

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4069-6pmid: 20379764

We propose a novel cross-linked mucoadhesive system that can interact covalently with mucin type glycoprotein, thus providing both strong bonding to mucosa as well as ability to function as a sustained release matrix. The strong bonding results from Michael type addition reaction between an acrylate end group on a polymer and the sulfide end group of the mucin type glycoprotein. A proof of concept is provided using a polyehtylene glycol hydrogel formed in situ from polyehtylene glycol di-acrylate (PEG-DA) macromers. The ability of PEG-DA to create interactions with mucin type glycoproteins was verified using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and rheology experiments. NMR studies have detected disappearance of the PEG-DA’s vinyl protons upon mucin addition, whereas rheology measurements have shown a viscosity increase. These results provide an evidence for the formation of mucin-polymer covalent bond. The ability PEG-DA to attach to mucus and promote mucoadhesion was evaluated by tensile measurements. PEG-DA adhered at strength comparable to other covalently interacting mucoadhesive polymers. Furthermore, PEG-DA was found to be a suitable candidate for sustained release of the hydrophilic drug Ibuprofen.

Gemelli, Enori; Resende, Cristiane; Almeida Soares, Gloria

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4074-9pmid: 20390323

A simplified simulated body fluid solution (S-SBF) was used to study the kinetics and mechanism of nucleation and growth of octacalcium phosphate (OCP) on the surfaces of alkali and heat-treated titanium samples. After the alkali and heat treatments, the samples were soaked in S-SBF for periods varying up to 24 h. A thin layer of poorly crystallized calcium titanate was formed after 15 min of immersion, allowing for the deposition of another layer of amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP). After 2.5 h of immersion, OCP nuclei were observed on the surface of the ACP layer. After 5 h of immersion in S-SBF solution, the specimens were completely covered with a homogeneous plate-like layer of OCP. Analyses by transmission electron microscopy revealed that nucleation and growth of OCP occurred concomitantly to the crystallization of ACP in hydroxyapatite (HA). This transformation took place by solid-state diffusion, forming a needle-like HA structure underneath the OCP film.

Rajzer, I.; Castaño, O.; Engel, E.; Planell, J.

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4078-5pmid: 20386961

In this work a calcium phosphate (CPC)/polymer blend was developed with the advantage of being moldable and capable of in situ setting to form calcium deficient hydroxyapatite under physiological conditions in an aqueous environment at body temperature. The CPC paste consists in a mix of R cement, glycerol as a liquid phase carrier and a biodegradable hydrogel such as Polyvinyl alcohol, which acts as a binder. Microstructure and mechanical analysis shows that the CPC blend can be used as an injectable implant for low loaded applications and fast adsorption requirements. The storage for commercial distribution was also evaluated and the properties of the materials obtained do not significantly change during storage at −18°C.

Machado, H.; Correia, Rui; Covas, J.

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4079-4pmid: 20405172

Biostable polyurethane/hydroxyapatite (PU/HA) composites with potential application as bone replacement materials were synthesized in bulk and processed in a screw extruder. The polyurethanes (PU) were prepared by reacting an aliphatic diisocyanate, 4-methylene-bis-diisocyanate (MDI), with poly-(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) diols and polytetramethylene oxide (PTMO) of different molecular weights, extended with 1, 4-butanediol (BDO). Glass-transition temperatures were measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The specific PU groups were assessed by total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The effects of polymer chemistry and filler content on the rheological behaviour were studied by oscillatory rheometry. Polymers with larger chain lengths showed higher viscosity and, for identical chain lengths, polyether urethanes seem to have higher viscosities than polyester based urethanes. A lubricating effect was found for composites containing 50% weight of filler, whereas at higher filler contents a solid-like behaviour was measured. Polymer chemistry seems to be affected by ageing but not so by the presence of filler. Ageing is characterized by a decrease in the concentration of hydrogen bonds involving between urethane linkages.

De Nardo, Luigi; Moscatelli, Monica; Silvi, Federica; Tanzi, Maria; Yahia, L’Hocine; Farè, Silvia

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4082-9pmid: 20407808

Thermally activated shape memory polyurethane foams are promising materials for minimally invasive surgical procedures. Understanding their physical and chemical properties, in vitro response and effects of sterilization is mandatory when evaluating their potential as biomaterials. In this work, we report on the characterization of two Cold Hibernated Elastic Memory (CHEM) foams before and after two novel low-temperature sterilization techniques (plasma and ozone). Foams have different transition temperatures (Ttrans), as determined by Tanδ peaks in DMA tests, that depend on their chemical composition: both foams possess excellent shape recovery ability (Recovery Rate up to 99%) in conventional shape recovery tests. Plasma sterilization (Sterrad® sterilization system) resulted in a slight increase of open porosity, but no effects on bulk chemical and thermo-mechanical properties were observed. Ozone sterilization had a stronger effect on foams morphology, both in terms of an evident rupture of pore walls and surface oxidation. These modifications affected both thermomechanical and shape recovery behavior. Furthermore, plasma sterilized foams cytocompatibility was investigated with L929 fibroblast cell line in vitro, showing a good adhesion and proliferation, as confirmed by SEM observation and Alamar blue assay. The obtained results contribute to define the role of shape memory foams as biomaterials and open novel questions on the role of sterilization technique effects on cellular solids.

Sarot, João; Contar, Cintia; Cruz, Ariadne; Souza Magini, Ricardo

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4084-7pmid: 20464460

CFR-PEEK (carbon fiber reforced—poly ether ether ketone) has been demonstrated to be excellent substitute titanium in orthopedic applications and can be manufactured with many physical, mechanical, and surface properties, in several shapes. The aim of this study was to compare, using the three-dimensional finite element method, the stress distribution in the peri-implant support bone of distinct models composed of PEEK components and implants reinforced with 30% carbon fiber (30% CFR-PEEK) or titanium. In simulations with a perfect bonding between the bone and the implant, the 30% CFR-PEEK presented higher stress concentration in the implant neck and the adjacent bone, due to the decreased stiffness and higher deformation in relation to the titanium. However, 30% CFR-PEEK implants and components did not exhibit any advantages in relation to the stress distribution compared to the titanium implants and components.

Liu, Xueran; EI-Ghannam, Ahmed

doi: 10.1007/s10856-010-4062-0pmid: 20379765

Silica-calcium phosphate nanocomposite (SCPC) is a bioactive ceramic characterized by superior bone regenerative capacity and resorbability when compared to traditional bioactive ceramics. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of processing parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of SCPC. Cylinders were prepared by pressing the ceramic powder at 200, 300 or 400 MPa and sintering at 900, 1000 or 1100°C for 3 h, respectively. XRD results indicate that the crystalline structure of the material is made of β-NaCaPO4 and α-cristobalite solid solutions. The increase in sintering temperature results in an increase in the grain size and the formation of a melting phase that coats the grains. TEM analyses reveal that the melting phase is amorphous and rich in silicon. The mechanical properties of SCPC cylinders are dependent on the content of the melting phase and the microstructure of the material. The ranges of compressive strength and modulus of elasticity of the SCPC are 62–204 MPa and 6–14 GPa, respectively, which are comparable to those of cortical bone. The results suggest that the interaction between crystalline and amorphous phases modulated the mechanical behavior of SCPC. It is possible to engineer the mechanical properties of SCPC by controlling the processing parameters to synthesize various fixation devices for orthopedic and cranio-maxillofacial applications.