Degradation of Poly(ε-caprolactone) Resorbable Multifilament Yarn under Physiological Conditions.

Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is a hydrophobic, resorbable aliphatic polymer recognized for its low tenacity and extensive elongation at break, making it a popular choice for fabricating biodegradable tissue engineering scaffolds. PCL's slow degradation rate typically results in a complete resorption period of 2 to 3 years. While numerous studies have examined the degradation of PCL in various forms such as films and webs, no study to date has investigated its physiological degradation in multifilament yarn form.

Incidence and Recovery of Vocal Fold Immobility Following Pediatric Cardiac Operations.

Background: Loss of laryngeal function after congenital cardiac surgery causes morbidity and prolongs hospitalization. Early diagnosis of vocal fold immobility (VFI) and referral to pediatric otolaryngology (pOTO) aids in laryngeal rehabilitation. Understanding the incidence and recovery rates of VFI enables counseling for families of infants undergoing high-risk surgery.

Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Resorbable Auxetic Designed Knitted Scaffolds for Craniofacial Skeletal Muscle Regeneration.

Craniofacial microsomia is a congenital deformity caused by asymmetric development of the skull (cranium) and face before birth. Current treatments include corrective surgery and replacement of the deformed structure using autograft tissue, which results in donor site morbidity. An alternative therapy can be achieved by developing a resorbable scaffold for skeletal muscle regeneration which will help restore the symmetry and function of the facial muscles and reduce donor site morbidity.

The implications of the Medicare Modernization Act for dual eligibles.

Medicare beneficiaries with incomes at or near the poverty level are also eligible for benefits provided by state Medicaid programs. The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 details special provisions for these "dually eligible" individuals compared with other Medicare beneficiaries. Issues related to enrollment, benefits, and patient compliance are discussed, as well as challenges physicians face in caring for this vulnerable population.