Long-term evaluation of porous PEGT/PBT implants for soft tissue augmentation.

Porous PEGT/PBT implants with different physico-chemical characteristics were evaluated to identify its potential as biodegradable and biofunctional soft tissue filler. Implants (50 x 10 x 5 mm3) were implanted subcutaneously in mini-pigs and tissue response, tissue volume generated and its consistency were assessed quantitatively with a 52 weeks follow-up. The absence of wound edema, skin irritation, and chronic inflammation demonstrated biocompatibility of all implants evaluated.

Involvement of glycosaminoglycans in the attachment of pneumococci to nasopharyngeal epithelial cells.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major bacterial pathogen involved in the development of otitis media. The pathogenic mechanisms of this middle ear disease, including the bacterial adherence mechanisms to the mucosal epithelial cells of the host, are poorly understood. In this study, the role of glycosaminoglycans in the adhesion of pneumococci to mucosal epithelial cells is examined.