RESUMO
This study aims to develop nanofibrous membranes where Eucalyptus globules oil (EGO) is wrapped in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The EGO-based nanofibrous membranes are then evaluated for the protection against Forcipomyia taiwana (F. taiwana). In the first stage, the PVA solutions are formulated with different concentrations and are measured for viscosity and electrical conductivity. In the next stage, PVA solution and EGO are blended at different ratios and electrospun into PVA/EGO nanofibrous membranes (i.e., EGO-based repellent). In this study, a PVA concentration of 14 wt% has a positive influence on fiber formation. Furthermore, the finest nanofibers of 291 nm are presented when the voltage is 15 kV. The repellent efficacy can reach 80% in a 60-min release when the repellent is composed of a PVA/oil ratio of 90/10. To sum up, the nanofibrous membranes of essential oil exhibit good repellent efficacy against F. taiwana and significant slow-release effect, instead of adversely affecting the cell viability.
RESUMO
Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) twisted yarn was braided into a 6-layered, hollow, cylindrical braid on a 16-spindle braid machine. The PLA braid was then placed inside a ß-TCP tube, forming the PLA/ß-TCP complex tube which imitates the porous structure of sponge bone. Different components and structures were studied to determine the best bone molding material. The ß-TCP tube was created by sintering TCP powder mixed with stearic acid in a ratio of 1:1.5 to form a highly porous and well-structured tube with interconnected pores; its resulting porosity was 85.8 ± 0.93%. The PLA/ß-TCP complex tube was implanted in a rabbit's femur and after 3 months a marrow cavity was discovered at the tube's core. New bone was also observed, regenerating around the PLA braid within the PLA/ß-TCP complex tube.