Communities in PRCR
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- Colecciones de la Albizu University
- Colecciones digitales de Atenas College
- Colecciones de los Centros Sor Isolina Ferré
- Materiales utilizados para la certificación.
Recent Submissions
Evolution and Use of Bone Adhesives Based on TCP/HA Configurations with Phosphoserine and TTCP for Treating Rib Fractures
(Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico, 2026) Vega Lebron, Yakiel Johem; Rondón Contreras, Jairo J.
This review serves as a theoretical comparative analysis of
calcium phosphate–based bone adhesives, specifically two
adhesives Tetranite (TTCP/phosphoserine) and OsStic™ (TCP/HA
with catechol functional groups). The methodology focused on a
literature review using PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and
Google Scholar, evaluating their adhesion mechanisms,
mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and performance in
physiological environments. Both adhesives stand out for
osteoconductivity and adhesion in physiological conditions, but
their application in rib fractures remains challenging due to
respiratory cycle motion. This work proposes a theoretical
modification of OsStic™ by incorporating collagen hydrogels to
introduce reversible flexibility without affecting structural
strength or osteoconductivity.
Evaluation of Plasma Induced Surface Modification in PLA- Aliginate Biocomposites and their Dielectric Response: A Review of Literature
(Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico, 2026) Rivera, Victoria; Resto, Joymar; Rondón Contreras, Jairo J.
Surface engineering plays an important role in improving the performance of biomaterials used in tissue engineering. Polylactic acid (PLA)–alginate biocomposites combine the mechanical strength of PLA with the hydrophilic and bioactive properties of alginate; however, their surface characteristics can limit early cellular interactions. This literature review (2010–2025) examines how non-thermal plasma (NTP) surface modification affects the physicochemical and dielectric behavior of PLA–alginate biomaterials. Plasma treatment introduces polar functional groups that increase surface energy and enhance wettability. As a result, dielectric properties such as permittivity and AC conductivity increase, indicating greater interfacial polarization and hydration within the material. These changes promote improved protein adsorption and fibroblast adhesion, supporting better biological compatibility. The findings emphasize the importance of plasma-induced surface functionalization for optimizing PLA-based scaffolds in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Chitosan–Alginate Conductive Hydrogels as Sustainable EEG Interface Materials
(Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico, 2026) Colón Rodríguez, Ruth M.; Ferrer Del Valle, Victor J.; Rondón Contreras, Jairo J.
Natural polymers such as chitosan and alginate are emerging
as sustainable alternatives to synthetic EEG gels. Current literature highlights their biocompatibility, hydration capacity, and ionic conductivity, suggesting potential improvements in signal stability, comfort, and environmental impact. This review summarizes key findings on natural‑polymer conductive hydrogels and their relevance for next‑generation EEG applications.
Upcycling Beer Bagasse into PLA-Bagasse Filaments for Sustainable 3D Printing
(Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico, 2026) Areizaga, Raitzangelis; Soto, Alexka; Febres,Camilla; Ruiz, Sergio; Sierra, Bethzaely; Marco, Mariana; Florián Algarín, Miguel Ángel
This study explores the transformation of beer bagasse, a byproduct of the brewing industry, into a biodegradable composite material for 3D printing. The focus was on developing filaments by blending dried and milled bagasse with polylactic acid (PLA) and epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) as a plasticizer. Multiple compositions were tested to evaluate the influence of bagasse and plasticizer ratios on the mechanical properties and printability of the final material. The optimal filament (80% PLA + 20% BG) was printed using a Creality Ender 3 V3, demonstrating the potential of upcycling agricultural waste into functional additive manufacturing materials.
Bioartificial Lungs: A Promising Alternative to Traditional Organ Transplantation
(Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico, 2026) Franco Negrón, Paola C.; Rondón Contreras, Jairo J.
End-stage lung disease remains a major clinical challenge due to donor shortage and chronic rejection after transplantation. Bioartificial lung engineering using patient-derived cells offers a promising alternative by enabling the creation of functional three-dimensional tissues capable of gas exchange. Preclinical studies have demonstrated successful implantation in animal models; however, key challenges remain, including scaffold optimization, vascularization, and functional maturation to ensure long-term in vivo performance. The development of personalized lung grafts represents a critical step toward clinically translatable therapies, as well as advanced platforms for airway reconstruction and disease modeling.