In this paper, we present a new conceptual model of Achilles tendon tissue homeostasis, and discuss this model in terms of existing computational models of tendon. This approach has the benefits of structuring the research on relevant computational modeling to date, while allowing us to identify
new computational models requiring development. The critically important functional issue for tendon is that it is continually damaged during use and so has to be repaired. From this follows the centrally important issue ACY-738 manufacturer of homeostasis of the load carrying collagen fibrils within the collagen fibers of the Achilles tendon. Collagen fibrils may be damaged mechanicallyby loading, or damaged
biochemicallyby proteases. Nutlin3 Upon reviewing existing computational models within this conceptual framework of the Achilles tendon structure and function, we demonstrate that a great deal of theoretical and experimental research remains to be done before there are reliably predictive multiscale computational model of Achilles tendon in health and disease. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2013, 5:523-538. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1229 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website Conflict of interest: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.”
“Objective: An alternative option in the prophylaxis and the management of infectious diseases is the use of probiotics, which are known to stabilize gut microbiota and stimulate immune function. Otitis media
(OM) is the most common bacterial infection in childhood. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge of the effects of probiotics on OM.
Methods: A PUBMED search was made to review the relevant literature, and publications on probiotics and otitis media in children were included. selleck kinase inhibitor Additional studies were obtained from the references of the selected articles.
Results: Only a few studies using different probiotic strains and study populations have investigated the effects of probiotics on OM. Five studies investigating the effects of oral probiotics, and three studies investigating the effect of probiotic nasal spray treatment were included in this review. Oral probiotics have reduced the incidence of OM in healthy children in one of two studies (days with OM: probiotic 0.5 vs. control 1.0; p = 0.003) and in newborns in one of two studies (incidence of OM: probiotic 22%, placebo 50%; p = 0.014), but has had no effect on OM in one study in otitis prone children. Nasal spray treatment containing alpha streptococci has led to clinical improvement in children with recurrent or secretory OM in two of three studies (cured: probiotic 42% vs. placebo 22%, p = 0.02; recovery: probiotic 7/19 patients vs. placebo 1/17, p < 0.05).