The versatility of the islanded posterior arm flap for regional reconstruction around the axilla.

Introduction: Defects in the region of the axilla pose a difficult reconstructive problem. Various methods for restoration have been described. We present our experience with the islanded posterior arm flap for regional reconstruction around the axilla.

Optical magnification should be mandatory for microsurgery: scientific basis and clinical data contributing to quality assurance.

Background: Microsurgical techniques are considered standard procedures in reconstructive surgery. Although microsurgery by itself is defined as surgery aided by optical magnification, there are no guidelines for determining in which clinical situations a microscope or loupe should be used. Therefore, we conducted standardized experiments to objectively assess the impact of optical magnification in microsurgery.

Negative regulation of RPE cell attachment by carbohydrate-dependent cell surface binding of galectin-3 and inhibition of the ERK-MAPK pathway.

Adhesion and spreading of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells on fibronectin-rich extracellular matrices is a crucial event in the pathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). In the present study we explored the capacity of galectin-3, a β-galactoside-binding endogenous lectin, to inhibit early PVR-associated cellular events from a therapeutic perspective. We assessed the relative expression levels of galectin-3 in native RPE and dedifferentiated, cultured RPE.

Introducing the concept of the 3Rs into tissue engineering research.

Tissue engineering, defined as using a combination of cultured cells and biodegradable scaffolds to repair tissue damaged by injury or disease, represents a booming sector of biomedical research. Animal experimentation is routinely performed prior to clinical trials. The presented study tries to translate the aspect of the 3Rs to tissue engineering research: Cell culture protocols were adapted to antibiotic free and serum free conditions.