Biomaterial-based nanoreactors, an alternative for enzyme delivery

AbstractApplication of nanotechnology is making huge progress in the biomedical and environmental fields. The design and production of nanoreactors based on the combination of catalytic properties of enzymes and the unique characteristics of nano-sized materials is, certainly, an opportunity to solve different challenges in biomedical and environmental fields. Most of the research efforts to combine enzymes and nanostructured materials have been made using ceramic, metallic, or carbon-based materials. Nevertheless, biomaterials, or materials from biological origin, have two main advantages for biomedical and environmental applications when compared with non-biological nanomaterials; they are biocompatible and biodegradable materials. In this work, a critical review of the literature information on nanostructured biomaterials for enzyme delivery is shown.

Download Full-text

Suffer the little children: Fixed intraoral habit appliances for treating childhood thumbsucking habits: a critical review of the literature

International Journal of Orofacial Myology ◽

10.52010/ijom.2002.28.1.2 ◽

2002 ◽

Vol 28 (01) ◽

pp. 6-38

Author(s):

Nicholas Moore

Keyword(s):

Critical Review ◽

Review Of The Literature ◽

Literature Information ◽

University Of Alberta ◽

The Usa ◽

Pain And Suffering ◽

The Uk ◽

And Function ◽

The University ◽

Serious Injuries

A critical review of the literature is presented covering the treatment of childhood thumbsucking habits using fixed intraoral habit appliances (hayrake, palatal crib). The habit appliances are classified into type and function. Data is tabulated for key references revealing the fragmented and distorted nature of the literature and its lack of consistency. A chronological approach is presented to confirm the confused and idiosyncratic character of the literature. Information is provided on the early work of Massler and Graber and the paradox of Mack, Komer and Reider. Haryett's seminal studies at the University of Alberta regarding aspects of the treatment used are critically reviewed. Reflections are presented on why Larsson's study,casting doubt on the wisdom of using habit appliances, continues to be ignored. The emergence of the Bluegrass Appliance is discussed in terms of its being a more humane appliance and the seeming reluctance of practitioners to apply it as a kinder form of appliance therapy. Information is reported on the pain and serious injuries inflicted on children by habit appliances. A comparison of the use of appliances in the USA is made with the UK, where fixed habit appliances are not popular. Concludes that fixed intraoral habit appliances are cruel and inflict pain and suffering on children out of all proportion to their necessity. Questions why these appliances continue to be used, implying that it could be a combination of financial inducement, professional insularity and the absence of concerted opposition from behavioral therapists.

Download Full-text