Application Of Graft Research Articles

Animal models for abdominal aortic aneurysms: Where we are and where we need to go.

The mortality rate of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) after rupture is extremely high, and this disease has become an important disease endangering the health of the Chinese population. Methods used to model AAA include intraluminal pressurized elastase infusion, chronic infusion of angiotensin II (Ang II) via an osmotic pump, periarterial application of calcium chloride, vascular grafting, and gene modification. AAA models induced by elastase and Ang II are the two most widely used animal models. In the elastase-induced model, because intraluminal infusion is transient, with the cessation of initial stimulation, the aneurysm lesion tends to be stable and rarely ruptures. The model induced by Ang II infusion often presents with a typical aortic dissection with a false lumen, whereas clinical AAA patients do not necessarily have dissection. Currently, the treatment of AAA in clinical practice remains endovascular, and there is a lack of pharmacological therapy, which is also related to the fact that the pathogenic mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Smoking, old age, male sex, and hypertension are the main risk factors for AAA, but these risk factors have not been fully investigated in the current modeling methods, which may affect the clinical translational application of research results based on animal models. Therefore, this article reviews the most commonly used AAA modeling methods, comments on their applications and limitations, and provides a perspective on the development of novel animal models.

Diverse Applications of Saphenous Vein Graft in Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction.

The greater saphenous vein (GSV) is widely used as an autologous graft in reconstructive surgeries, particularly in coronary artery bypass grafting and peripheral vascular interventions. This study explores the applicability of the GSV as a valuable graft option in oral and maxillofacial reconstructions, focusing on complex head and neck cases. Given the unique anatomic challenges of these areas, including proximity to vital structures and the need for extensive tissue resection, the GSV serves as an effective conduit in reconstructive strategies. This article provides a detailed overview of the typical GSV harvesting technique and presents case studies demonstrating the diverse applications of GSV grafts, including mandibular defect reconstruction, replacement of the internal jugular vein after radical neck dissection, and maxillary reconstruction after oncologic resection. The discussion addresses common anatomic and technical considerations, such as variable GSV diameters, vessel size mismatches, and donor site morbidity. A number of advanced anastomotic techniques is evaluated to address graft-recipient vessel discrepancies, ensuring optimal outcomes. Emphasizing careful patient evaluation and precise surgical techniques, this study concludes that the GSV is a reliable autogenous graft option, extending its versatility to challenging head and neck reconstructions. Preoperative anatomic assessment through Doppler analysis, patient consultation, and meticulous graft handling are essential to optimize graft function and minimize complications.

Temporal comparison of radiological and functional outcomes in calcaneal fracture surgery with and without iliac crest graft application: Mid- to long-term results

BackgroundThe standard approach for addressing intra-articular calcaneal fractures involves open reduction with plate and screw fixation, with ongoing discourse regarding the application of grafts to address bone gaps. The aim of this study is the temporal comparison of the radiological and functional outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for intra-articular calcaneal fractures, with a specific focus on the use of bone grafts.MethodsThirty patients, comprising 13 with iliac grafts and 17 without, were enrolled in the study. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included Gissane and Böhler angles, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle hindfoot scale, and Kellgreen-Lawrance subtalar arthrosis stages. The average follow-up period was 6.7 years, ranging from a minimum of 3.5 to a maximum of 10 years.ResultsThe Böhler angle exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.001), while the Gissane angle did not show significant changes in the early postoperative period across the entire study group (p = 0.1). Graft-treated patients demonstrated a significantly higher Böhler angle in the early and late postoperative periods compared to preoperative values (p = 0.04, p = 0.05). Similarly, patients without grafts exhibited a significantly higher Böhler angle in the early and late postoperative periods compared to preoperative values (p = 0.004, p = 0.002). No significant differences were observed between periods in Gissane measurements (p = 0.3), VAS scores, AOFAS scores, and the development of subtalar arthrosis in both grafted and non-grafted patients.ConclusionsEvaluation of patients with calcaneal fractures, both with and without grafts, was conducted using Böhler and Gissane angles, VAS scores, AOFAS scores, and the development of fracture union and subtalar arthrosis, assessing preoperative, early, and late postoperative periods. No significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of clinical and radiological outcomes during mid-to long-term follow-up.Level of evidenceA retrospective cohort study.

Multifunctional hybrid poly(ester-urethane)urea/resveratrol electrospun nanofibers for a potential vascularizing matrix.

The challenges for clinical application of small-diameter vascular graft are mainly acute/chronic thrombosis, inadequate endothelialization, intimal hyperplasia caused by inflammation, oxidative stress, and the mismatch of mechanical compliance after transplantation. How to construct an effective regenerative microenvironment through a material with uniform dispersion of active components is the premise of maintaining patency of a vascular graft. In this study, we have compounded poly(ester-urethane)urea (PEUU) with various optimized concentrations of resveratrol (Res) by homogeneous emulsion blending, followed by electrospinning into the hybrid PEUU/Res nanofibers (P/R-0, P/R-0.5, P/R-1.0, and P/R-1.5). Then the microstructure, surface wettability, mechanical properties, degradation, Res sustained release properties, hemocompatibility, and cytocompatibility of P/R were evaluated comprehensively. The results indicate that Res can be gradually released from the P/R, and both the hydrophilicity and antioxidant ability of the nanofiber gradually increase with the increase of Res content. Moreover, with the increase of Res, the viability and proliferation behavior of HUVECs were significantly improved. Meanwhile, tube formation and migration experiments showed that Res promoted the formation of a neovascularization network. In brief, it is concluded that P/R-1.0 is the optimal candidate with a uniform microstructure, moderate wettability, optimized mechanical properties, reliable hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility, and strongest ability to promote endothelial growth for the vascularizing matrix.

Secondary Healing Over NovoSorb BTM in the Management of Complex Nasal Defects.

The use of PolyNovo NovoSorb biodegradable temporizing matrix (BTM) has become popular for the management of complex wounds, often with the subsequent application of a split-thickness skin graft. To date, there are no published case series describing healing via secondary intention over BTM in the management of small, complex nasal wounds following excision of skin malignancy in the elective setting. This study consisted of a single-center, consecutive case series. Inclusion criteria consisted of defects with exposed cartilage or bone in wounds located on the nasal dorsum or nasal sidewall resulting from the elective excision of nasal skin malignancies. BTM without skin grafting was used as a single-stage reconstruction in all patients following oncological clearance. After delamination, the wound was left to heal by secondary intention. The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale was used to measure the aesthetic outcome. All 32 cases exhibited 100% integration of BTM and successful wound closure. Two cases required further excision following review of the final histology. The median (SD) overall Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale score was 2.7 (±0.81), and the median overall observer score was 3.2 (±0.73). When planning nasal reconstruction following oncological resection, one should consider the patient's comorbidities; their ability to tolerate the anesthetic, surgery, donor skin deficit, and risks; and the technical ability of the operating surgeon. We suggest that the use of BTM without harvesting a skin graft represents a simple, low-risk option for reconstruction of nasal defects that produces acceptable functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Comparing the Efficacy of a Unique Advanced Bioengineered Type-I Collagen-Based Skin Substitute Versus an Amnion Graft With Standard of Care in the Treatment of Non-healing Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

The increased cost and morbidity associated with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) place a substantial strain on the entire global healthcare system. In this trial, 24 subjects with a chronic DFU, Wagner grade 1 (University of Texas grade 1A), were treated with Standard of Care (SOC) therapy and randomized, one-half to receive advanced high-purity Type-I collagen-based skin substitute (HPTC; manufactured by Encoll Corp., Fremont, CA, USA), and the other half to receive a dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane (dHACM) or viable cryopreserved human placental membrane (vCHPM). The primary study endpoint was percentage wound area reduction (PAR) over the five-week treatment period. Secondary endpoints included healing time, proportion of wounds closed, and mean number of graft applications. By four weeks post-randomization, the mean PAR for the HPTC group was 83.9 versus 71.3 for dHACM or vCHPM. By four weeks, 6/12 (50%) of wounds receiving HPTC healed, compared to 3/12 (25%) in the comparator group (dHACM or vCHPM). There were no adverse events reported in either group. The results of this study suggest that HPTC shows great promise in wound healing in people with DFUs, with the given limitations. We look forward to future studies that will confirm these encouraging results.

Evaluation of Perilipin Expression in Centrifuged Fat Grafts on Different Revolutions Per Minute and Duration Combinations.

Fat graft applications are one of the most frequently used procedures in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. Fat graft survival rate is variable and depends on many parameters. Those are the features of recipient area, method of obtaining the fat graft, the procedures applied to the harvest to get pure fat graft and the application techniques. In this study, we aimed to find the optimal revolutions per minute(rpm) and duration to be used in the centrifugation technique, which is one of the most frequently used methods in fat grafting. In our study, we used perilipin protein as a survival marker. Liposuction samples were obtained from 10 Caucasian women individuals; whose age range is between 22 and 29 years without any other reported health problem. Fat grafts from all patients were taken by the same surgical team by the same liposuction procedure. The grafts obtained in our study were divided into 6 different groups, these are A1 group (1 minute-1000 rpm) A2 group (3 minutes-1000 rpm) A3 group (5 minutes-1000 rpm) B1 group (1 minute-3000 rpm) B2 group (3 minutes-3000 rpm) and B3 group (5 minutes-3000 rpm). Perilipin expression measurements were made in the sections taken by immunohistochemistry technique. Three minutes-3000 rpm combination (B2 group) was found to be perilipin stained statistically significantly higher than other combinations. This study seeks to make a notable contribution to the literature by demonstrating the relation between frequently used centrifuge combinations and measuring the expression of perilipin. This protein's role in adipocyte regulation is becoming increasingly apparent.Level of Evidence III This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Hydrogels in Alveolar Bone Regeneration.

Alveolar bone defects caused by oral trauma, alveolar fenestration, periodontal disease, and congenital malformations can severely affect oral function and facial aesthetics. Despite the successful clinical applications of bone grafts or bone substitutes, optimal alveolar bone regeneration continues to be challenging due to the complex oral environment and its unique physiological functions. Hydrogels that serve as promising candidates for tissue regeneration are under development to meet the specific needs for increased bone regeneration capacity and improved operational efficiency in alveolar bone repair. In this review, we emphasize the considerations in hydrogel design for alveolar bone regeneration and summarize the latest applications of hydrogels in prevalent clinical diseases related to alveolar bone defects. The future perspectives and challenges for the application of hydrogels in the field of alveolar bone regeneration are also discussed. Deepening our understanding of these biomaterials will facilitate the advent of novel inventions to improve the outcome of alveolar bone tissue regeneration.

Conjoined partners: efficacy and side effects of grafting and dsRNA application on the microbial endophyte population of grapevine plants inoculated with two esca-related fungal pathogens.

Grafting has been exploited since 7000 BC to enhance productivity, disease resistance, and adaptability of cultivated plants to stressful conditions especially in woody crops such as grapevine (Vitis spp.). In contrast, the application of sequence specific double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) to control fungal pathogens and insect pests has only been recently developed. The possibility of combining these approaches to enhance plant resilience, reducing reliance on pesticides, offers new perspectives for a more sustainable agriculture. In this study, we assessed the potential of utilizing dsRNAs to enhance resilience against esca-related wood fungal pathogens in grapevine, considering various rootstock-scion combinations. The results showed that the scion genotype modulates the ability of the rootstock to cope with the inoculated wood fungal pathogens, mainly by altering the efficacy of producing stilbene compounds. Additionally, we found that dsRNAs reduced the growth of two inoculated esca-related fungal pathogens but they did not completely stop their colonization. Furthermore, wood microbiome data showed that the scion genotype (always belonging to Vitis vinifera species) was also able to influence the rootstock-associated microbiota, with a major effect on the fungal community. Lastly, adverse effects on non-target microorganisms are reported, raising questions on the environmental fate of dsRNAs and how dsRNAs can directly or indirectly affect plant-associated microbial communities.

Safety and aesthetic evaluation of autologous dermal fat grafts for lateral Skull base defect reconstruction

ObjectiveThe selection of appropriate materials and techniques for reconstructing skull base defects is crucial for restoring function, minimizing complications, and enhancing aesthetics. Dermal fat grafts (DFGs) have been established in many surgeries for contour correction. However, there is little literature describing the application of free dermal fat grafts for reconstruction of lateral skull base surgery defects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of using free dermal fat grafts in the reconstruction of lateral skull base defects.MethodsIn this study, 32 patients who underwent primary autologous free dermal fat graft reconstruction for lateral skull base defects were enrolled. Postoperative complications both in the donor and recipient area were evaluated. Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques were applied to visualize the fat graft shape and volume variations for the assessment of postoperative restoring function. A telephone questionnaire was used for the assessment of postoperative facial aesthetics and patient satisfaction.ResultsA total of 32 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study, showing satisfying results in safety and aesthetics. Participants’ ages averaged at 42.03 years, with the youngest being 18 and the oldest at 75 years old. No patient had postoperative complications of abdominal wounds in the donor area, only two patients had postoperative infections and one patient had a postoperative effusion in the recipient area. The volume of the grafts ranged from a minimum of 24.4 cm³ to a maximum of 131 cm³, with the highest recorded resorption volume being 33.63 cm³. The average resorption rate of the dermal fat graft was 24.36%, ranging from a minimum of 11% to a maximum of 43%. 3D reconstruction based on MRI imaging data indicated that DFGs have a lower resorption rate than traditional free fat grafts. The telephone questionnaire revealed high patient satisfaction with facial aesthetics, with the majority rating their outcomes positively.ConclusionsDermal fat grafts have fewer complication and can provide better resistance to infection and radiation aspect. Based on 3D reconstruction techniques via MRI imaging data, we found that dermal fat grafts have lower resorption rate than traditional free fat grafts, which can be a suitable material for reconstruction of lateral skull base defects.

The impact of root end filling material type and the application of bone graft on healing of periapical tissues after endodontic microsurgery (a clinical randomized controlled trial)

To evaluate the effect of combining different bioactive root-end filling materials with composite bone graft (xenogeneic mixed with autogenous bone fragments) on the healing process of periapical tissues after endodontic micro-surgery procedure. In this triple-blinded clinical trial, 56 patients were divided into 2 main groups (28 each) according to the root-end filling material and 2 subgroups according to the presence or absence of the composite bone graft material. Group I: MTA root-end filling (n = 28) in which there are Sub-group A: without bone graft (n = 14) and Sub-group B: with composite bone graft (n = 14). Group II: TotalFill root-end filling (n = 28) in which there are Sub-group A: without bone graft (n = 14) and Sub-group B: with composite bone graft (n = 14). Healthy patients whose ages range from 20 to 50 years with small-to-medium size radiolucency in CBCT related to single-rooted maxillary teeth were included in this study. Patients were assigned a number starting from 1 to 56 and were randomly allocated to four test groups (2 main groups and 2 sub-groups) following simple randomization procedure guidelines described by IBM SPSS V23 (IBM USA) statistical analysis software. This trial was triple-blind where the patient, the outcome assessors, and the main operator were blinded to the applied intervention. Every patient was evaluated clinically and by CBCT at two main observation periods: presurgical and 12-month post-operative. They were also examined and evaluated clinically and radiographically through periapical x-rays after one week, three, and six months. Statistical analysis was performed with IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows Version 23.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Of the 56 patients enrolled in the study, 49 patients were available for the final analysis. All groups showed no statistically significant differences with regard to healing or success rates at the 12-month follow-up mark. No adverse effects were encountered. Results showed that high success rates were achieved using MTA and TotalFill in the healing of periapical lesions after endodontic surgery. The addition of bone graft in small-to-medium size lesions did not affect the success rate of endodontic surgeries.

Bone allograft impregnated with tobramycin and vancomycin delivers antibiotics in high concentrations for prophylaxis against bacteria commonly associated with prosthetic joint infections.

Local delivery of antibiotics as prophylaxis for prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) is frequently used during total hip replacement surgery. Morselized bone allograft impregnated with vancomycin and tobramycin (TobraVanc) could provide effective prophylaxis against bacteria commonly associated with PJIs. In this study, the concentrations of antibiotics released by bone allograft impregnated with TobraVanc were determined by using an in vitro bioassay system entailing measuring inhibition zone diameters caused by antibiotic-impregnated bone chips cast in agar against standard curves. The concentrations were determined in samples of TobraVanc-impregnated bone graft taken before and after the application of the bone graft in the patients undergoing acetabular revision surgery. Antibiotic-impregnated bone grafts, sampled prior to application in the patient, delivered antibiotics in the concentration ranges of 730-9,800 mg/L for tobramycin and 1,300-11,000 mg/L for vancomycin. Samples taken after application in the patient released lower concentrations of tobramycin (490-1,900 mg/L; P < 0.01) and vancomycin (3,000-5,100 mg/L; P < 0.05); however, these concentrations remained well above the tobramycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for investigated, highly tobramycin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis strains (MICs > 256 mg/L). At the tested concentrations, bone graft material mixed with TobraVanc delivered antibiotics in potent concentrations above the MICs for bacteria causing PJIs. Clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy and risk of TobraVanc-impregnated bone graft as a prophylactic agent for patients undergoing hip replacement surgery.IMPORTANCEAntibiotic prophylaxis is the cornerstone of successful joint replacement surgery, reducing the risk for the dreaded complication of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) to roughly 0.5%-2% in standard total hip replacement (THR). In addition to systemic antibiotics, antibiotics added locally have the potential to reduce the PJI risk even further, because of the high concentrations that can be achieved in the joint with limited risk for systemic toxicity. The results in the current study show that bone chips impregnated with a combination of tobramycin and vancomycin (TobraVanc) release antibiotics in concentrations that are potent against common bacteria causing PJIs. Especially in high-risk patients, our results support the prophylactic use of TobraVanc in hip replacement surgery requiring the use of a bone graft. A clinical study testing the efficacy of TobraVanc-impregnated bone graft in reducing the incidence of PJI in hip replacement surgery is currently ongoing (EudraCT: 2021-001708-14).

Experimental and numerical study of a novel inbuilt helical ridge small-caliber graft for artery bypass surgery

Small-caliber (≤ 6 mm) vascular grafts are commonly used to treat vascular diseases, yet intimal hyperplasia at the distal end-to-side anastomosis remains a significant complication with long-term use. Helical flow has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications effectively. Integrating helical flow through an inbuilt helical ridge in vascular grafts is intended to improve hemodynamic performance and mitigate issues such as flow-induced thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia. However, inadequate helical flow strength may limit its effectiveness. This study proposes a novel design for an inbuilt helical ridge in small-caliber grafts to achieve enhanced helical flow. Two novel small-caliber vascular grafts with variable-pitch helical ridges, incorporating both decreasing and increasing pitches, were designed. Their effectiveness was assessed through numerical simulations and in vitro experiments to evaluate their performance in arterial graft applications. The small-caliber vascular grafts incorporating variable-pitch helical ridges significantly improved helical flow structure and distribution, optimized wall shear stress distribution, and reduced platelet adhesion compared to conventional and constant-pitch helical ridge grafts. Among the various new designs, the small-caliber vascular graft featuring decreasing variable-pitch helical ridges has demonstrated better performance. This design is well-suited for small-caliber bypass surgeries, as it is effective in improving hemodynamic performance by improving helical flow into asymmetric structures and increasing helical flow density distribution.

Synthesis and properties of tailored β‐tricalcium phosphate for bone filler applications

AbstractThe present work reports the synthesis of highly phase pure (&gt; 95%) β‐TCP and its subsequent conversion into granules for bone graft applications, using an industrial scale proprietary manufacturing route. Following the wet chemical approach, several process parameters, were adjusted for large volume synthesis, including pH, precursor concentration, and ripening time. The granulation process is tailored to facilitate the scalibility and control over morphology, porosity, and pore size. X‐ray diffraction analysis confirms the presence of pure β‐TCP phase where as Ca/P molar ratio of 1.497 was determined using ICP‐OES. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy depicts the presence of PO43− as a major molecular group. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the β‐TCP powders reveal necking features, a characteristic morphology of β‐TCP. SEM images of the β‐TCP granules reveal microporosity, which aids in triggering a biological response. The TGA‐DTA curve suggests that the weight loss in pure β‐TCP is twice as compared with β‐TCP containing hydroxyapatite. Furthermore, these β‐TCP granules were clinically tested in a few orthopedic and spine surgeries. In all the treated patients, β‐TCP granules did not induce any pus formation or infection at the surgical sites, thereby establishing clinically relevant biocompatibility properties.

The course of the phrenic nerve in the neck region and its relationship with adjacent anatomical structures in the thoracic inlet.

This study aims to reveal the relationship of the phrenic nerve (PhN) with its neighboring structures in the lower neck region more comprehensively than previous studies and to minimize nerve damage by enabling invasive procedures in this region to be performed with high accuracy. Forty-one heminecks were evaluated. The relationship between the PhN and the anterior scalene muscle (ASM), internal thoracic artery (ITA), branches of subclavian artery (SA) and subclavian vein (SV) was examined. It was observed that the PhN was located medial to the ASM in all cases. The distances were higher in male cadavers. The PhN was found to enter the thorax lateral to the ITA in 15/41 and medial to it in 25/41 sides. In 17/41 cases, the closest SA branch to the PhN was the thyrocervical trunk (TT) and in 24 cases the ITA. The PhN was located behind the SV in 38 cases and in front of it in 2 cases.The accessory PhN was found in 4/41 sides. There was no significant difference in morphometric findings between genders (p > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed between the parameters (p < 0.05). The anatomy and variations of the PhN are of great importance in surgical interventions and invasive procedures in the neck region. The study provides important information to reduce the risk of damage to the PhN in surgical procedures. In addition, knowledge of the anatomical variations of the nerve may contribute to more successful results in nerve grafting and other surgical applications.

TEMPORARY AMNIOTIC MEMBRANE GRAFT PLACEMENT FOR TREATMENT OF REFRACTORY MACULAR HOLES.

To report two patient cases demonstrating the management of refractory macular holes through the application of temporary thin amniotic membrane grafts, followed by subsequent graft removal upon achieving hole closure. Comprehensive chart and literature review was conducted utilizing the PubMed database. We describe two patients who underwent repeat pars plana vitrectomy for treatment of refractory macular holes. In both cases, the epi-retinal placement of a thin amniotic membrane graft (AMG) was done to achieve hole closure. Following a period of retinal stabilization, the amniotic membranes were removed due to the healthy appearance of the outer retinal layers and the ellipsoid zone, ultimately resulting in an improved final visual acuity in both patients. This case series demonstrates a new approach of using a temporary AMG to close refractory macular holes. After graft removal, both patients reported enhanced visual acuity and subjective visual improvement, accompanied by the stable closure of macular holes on serial OCT scans.

Advancements in skin grafting: Development and application of a novel two-blade dermatome for concurrent split-thickness and dermal graft harvesting

This investigation delineates the evolution and prospective utilisation of an innovative two-blade dermatome, designed for the concurrent harvesting of a conventional split-thickness skin graft (STSG) and an additional dermal graft within the same surgical harvest. Historically, the extraction of dermal grafts has encountered substantial technical impediments, contributing to its limited acceptance and utilisation in clinical practice. The prototype dermatome, introduced in this technical note, offers a solution that could facilitate the more extensive adoption of dermal grafting techniques.The dermal segment of an STSG, obtained as a second graft, confers four notable advancements: First, employing solely the dermal component for grafting and repositioning the uppermost skin flap to the donor site, markedly diminishes donor site morbidity. Second, owing to its elasticity, the dermal graft reduces the need for meshing, thereby enhancing cosmetic outcomes. Third, utilising both the uppermost skin layer and a deeper dermal layer for the recipient site can reduce donor site areas. Fourth, the dermal segment of the graft can serve as a dermal matrix in reconstructive procedures, potentially reducing the need for an allogenic dermal matrix and obviating the subsequent STSG; the dermal graft may heal independently, eliminating the need for an additional conventional STSG.The findings of this study, predicated on the application of a first-generation two-blade dermatome on four cadavers, demonstrate the feasibility of extracting at least two distinct grafts with pre-determined thicknesses in a single, technically less challenging, surgical harvest procedure.In conclusion, this proof-of-concept research elucidates the feasibility of a two-blade dermatome, capable of simultaneously yielding at least one conventional STSG and one dermal graft, thereby simplifying skin graft harvesting. Although these preliminary investigations were conducted on human cadavers, the results hold promise for the development of two-blade dermatomes and represent a significant advancement in skin graft harvesting. Further research is imperative to refine the prototype and to broaden our comprehension of the potential applications of dermal grafting in various clinical scenarios.

Potential role of calcium sulfate/β-tricalcium phosphate/graphene oxide nanocomposite for bone graft application_mechanical and biological analyses

BackgroundBone grafts are extensively used for repairing bone defects and voids in orthopedics and dentistry. Moldable bone grafts offer a promising solution for treating irregular bone defects, which are often difficult to fill with traditional rigid grafts. However, practical applications have been limited by insufficient mechanical strength and rapid degradation.MethodsThis study developed a ceramic composite bone graft composed of calcium sulfate (CS), β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) with/without graphene oxide (GO) nano-particles. The biomechanical properties, degradation rate, and in-vitro cellular responses were investigated. In addition, the graft was implanted in-vivo in a critical-sized calvarial defect model.ResultsThe results showed that the compressive strength significantly improved by 135% and the degradation rate slowed by 25.5% in comparison to the control model. The addition of GO nanoparticles also improved cell compatibility and promoted osteogenic differentiation in the in-vitro cell culture study and was found to be effective at promoting bone repair in the in-vivo animal model.ConclusionsThe mixed ceramic composites presented in this study can be considered as a promising alternative for bone graft applications.

Application of gas grafting with palmitoyl chloride to manufacture hydrophobic decorative wood veneer

Abstract In this study, the feasibility of hydrophobizing pine wood veneers through gas grafting with palmitoyl chloride using a hot press was explored. To achieve this, the hydrophobization characteristics of wood veneer were analyzed under various conditions, including pressing temperature, time, and concentration of palmitoyl chloride. The results showed that the gas grafting treatment successfully hydrophobized the pine wood veneer, and that the pressing temperature and concentration of palmitoyl chloride were the main factors influencing the grafting. The hydrophobization efficiency increased with an increase in the pressing temperature and palmitoyl chloride concentration, whereas the pressing time had little effect. However, under conditions of excessively high palmitoyl chloride concentration, pressing temperature, and excessively long pressing time, relatively large color changes and a pH drop in the veneer were observed. Therefore, it was concluded that to treat pine wood veneer with a diluted solution of 0.5 % palmitoyl chloride at 180 °C for 6 s was appropriate.

Valorizing Biopolyester Suberin: Modification of Cellulose Nanocrystals and Performance Assessment in 3D-Printed Biobased Acrylates.

Suberin, a common biomass processing waste, is a complex biopolymer and a promising source for the biorefinery of chemicals. Six different approaches for the extraction of birch outer bark suberin fatty acids (SFAs) were explored, and their application in grafting the surface of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) was investigated. Successful CNC functionalization was controlled with FTIR and NMR analyses. In-depth research allowed us to evaluate the interface of the nanocellulose and polymer matrix. Three structurally distinct SFA-grafted CNCs were integrated into a vegetable oil-based acrylate resin in an ultralow concentration of 0.1 wt %. Five biobased acrylic resin formulations were prepared: without reinforcement, with CNC, and with three distinct SFA-grafted CNCs. Vat photopolymerization (VP) 3D printing was utilized for sample preparation. The effects of grafted CNC components on 3D-printed samples' thermal stability, thermomechanical properties, and wettability were evaluated in detail. CNC functionalization enhanced the interface with the polymer matrix, yielding up to a 2-fold increase in elongation and up to a 2.5-fold increase in strength in tensile and flexural tests compared to the polymeric matrix. The CNC-SFA-modified filler demonstrated performance comparable to, or even better than, petroleum-based chemical modification routes found in the existing literature. This study highlights a promising approach for green functionalization of CNCs and verifies its use in interface enhancement using a biobased acrylate matrix.