Multi-walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with pyrene-PEG via π-π interactions: toxicological assessment in zebrafish embryos.

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) have many promising biological applications, even though functionalization is needed for better biocompatibility. Functionalization of MWCNT with polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a promising and widely studied approach, but the best PEGylation method is still under investigation. In this work, we have tested the biological implications of MWCNT functionalized via π-stacking with pyrene-PEG (MWCNT-Pyr-PEG) in zebrafish embryos.

Thoracic and lumbar spinal impact tolerance.

Introduction: Thoracolumbar injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents, falls, and assaults have a high risk of morbidity and mortality. However, there are no biomechanically based standards that address this problem.

Methods: This study used four cadaveric porcine specimens as a model for direct spinal impact injuries to humans to determine an appropriate injury tolerance value.