ABSTRACT
We demonstrate a novel structure based on smart carbon nanocomposites intended for fabricating laser-triggered drug delivery devices (DDDs). The performance of the devices relies on nanocomposites' photothermal effects that are based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with carbon nanoparticles (CNPs). Upon evaluating the main features of the nanocomposites through physicochemical and photomechanical characterizations, we identified the main photomechanical features to be considered for selecting a nanocomposite for the DDDs. The capabilities of the PDMS/CNPs prototypes for drug delivery were tested using rhodamine-B (Rh-B) as a marker solution, allowing for visualizing and quantifying the release of the marker contained within the device. Our results showed that the DDDs readily expel the Rh-B from the reservoir upon laser irradiation and the amount of released Rh-B depends on the exposure time. Additionally, we identified two main Rh-B release mechanisms, the first one is based on the device elastic deformation and the second one is based on bubble generation and its expansion into the device. Both mechanisms were further elucidated through numerical simulations and compared with the experimental results. These promising results demonstrate that an inexpensive nanocomposite such as PDMS/CNPs can serve as a foundation for novel DDDs with spatial and temporal release control through laser irradiation.
Subject(s)
Drug Carriers/chemistry , Nanocomposites/chemistry , Smart Materials/chemistry , Carbon/chemistry , Dimethylpolysiloxanes/chemistry , Drug Carriers/radiation effects , Elasticity , Lasers , Light , Mechanical Phenomena , Nanocomposites/radiation effects , Rhodamines/chemistry , Smart Materials/radiation effectsABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIM: The need of comfortable and safe prosthetic systems is an important challenge for both prosthetists and engineers. The aim of this technical note is to demonstrate the use of three-dimensional digital image correlation to evaluate mechanical response of two prosthetic systems under real patient dynamic loads. TECHNIQUE: This note describes the use of three-dimensional digital image correlation method to obtain full-field strain and displacement measurements on the surface of two lower limb prostheses for Chopart amputation. It outlines key points of the measurement protocol and illustrates the analysis of critical regions using data obtained on specific points of interest. DISCUSSION: The results show that the use of three-dimensional digital image correlation can be a tool for the prosthetist to optimize the prosthesis considering features related to the material and design, in order to bear with real patient-specific load conditions. Clinical relevance Three-dimensional digital image correlation can support decision-making on new designs and materials for prosthetics based on quantitative data. Better understanding of mechanical response could also assist prescription for appropriate prosthetic systems.
