Superior Hemostatic and Wound-Healing Properties of Gel and Sponge Forms of Nonoxidized Cellulose Nanofibers: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.

Many materials have been engineered and commercialized as hemostatic agents. However, there is still a gap in the availability of hemostats that offer biocompatibility and biodegradability in combination with effective hemostatic properties. Cellulose nanofibers are investigated as hemostatic materials with most studies focusing on oxidized cellulose-derived hemostats. The recent studies demonstrate that by optimizing the morphological properties of nonoxidized cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) enhanced hemostasis is achieved. Herein, the hemostatic and wound-healing properties of CNFs with optimized morphology using two forms, gel, and sponge is investigated. In vitro thromboelastometry studies demonstrate that CNFs reduce clotting time by 68% (±SE 2%) and 88% (±SE 5%) in gel and sponge forms, respectively. In an in vivo murine liver injury model, CNFs significantly reduce blood loss by 38% (±SE 10%). The pH-neutral CNFs do not damage red blood cells, nor do they impede the proliferation of fibroblast or endothelial cells. Subcutaneously-implanted CNFs show a foreign body reaction resolving with the degradation of CNFs on histological examination and there is no scarring in the skin after 8 weeks. Demonstrating superior hemostatic performance in a variety of forms, as well as biocompatibility and biodegradability, CNFs hold significant potential for use in surgical and first-aid environments.

A Novel Mutation in Nucleoporin 35 Causes Murine Degenerative Colonic Smooth Muscle Myopathy.

Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO) is a rare but life-threatening disease characterized by severe intestinal dysmotility. Histopathologic studies in CIPO patients have identified several different mechanisms that appear to be involved in the dysmotility, including defects in neurons, smooth muscle, or interstitial cells of Cajal. Currently there are few mouse models of the various forms of CIPO. We generated a mouse with a point mutation in the RNA recognition motif of the Nup35 gene, which encodes a component of the nuclear pore complex. Nup35 mutants developed a severe megacolon and exhibited a reduced lifespan. Histopathologic examination revealed a degenerative myopathy that developed after birth and specifically affected smooth muscle in the colon; smooth muscle in the small bowel and the bladder were not affected. Furthermore, no defects were found in enteric neurons or interstitial cells of Cajal. Nup35 mice are likely to be a valuable model for the subtype of CIPO characterized by degenerative myopathy. Our study also raises the possibility that Nup35 polymorphisms could contribute to some cases of CIPO.

Innovative approach for the treatment of cumulative trauma disorders.

Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) is the latest four-letter word for employees and employers. The purpose of this pilot study was to test the efficacy and cost effectiveness of ASTM, previously executed with Division I college athletes, in a work-related population. ASTM uses specially designed instruments to assist clinicians in rapid localization and effective treatment of soft tissue fibrosis/scar tissue. The protocol includes a flexibility and functional program that helps the worker adapt to the demands of the job. Physical and occupational therapists in both an outpatient clinic, and an industrial on-site setting, utilized ASTM. ASTM was considered successful, with symptoms resolved in over 70 percent of the patients. ASTM demonstrated impressive results in both settings and decreased medical and non-medical expenditures.