Researchers identify regions of tissue-specific γ subunits that are responsible for regulating the activity of calcium-activated potassium channels.

Objectives: Many acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) are available for use in periodontal surgical procedures. However, few studies exist evaluating their in vivo healing properties. The objectives of this study were to compare the wound healing and remodeling of two ADMs used for gingival augmentation procedures in the rat model. Materials and methods:This was a nonrandomized controlled split-mouth study.Envelope flaps were surgically created in the maxillary quadrants of 24 Sprague Dawley rats. Each received either (a) AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix, or (b) OrACELL. Gingival tissue from one mandibular quadrant served as the untreated control. Six male and six female rats were treated for 7 or 21 days. Biopsies were processed for histologic analysis (H&E, Picro-sirius red, Verhoeff's solution) or RNA analysis (RT-PCR) to analyze the expression of type I collagen (Col1a1), fibronectin (Fn-1) and VEGF-A (Vegf-A).Results: There was a greater density of fibroblasts in OrACELL compared to AlloDerm at both timepoints. There was a greater density of elastin present in AlloDerm compared to OrACELL at 7 days but no differences at 21 days. There were no differences between test groups in the percentage of birefringent collagen or in the expression of Vegf-A or Fn-1. At 7 days, there were significantly more fibroblasts for males in the OrACELL group compared to females. At 21 days, there was a significantly greater expression of Col1a1 for males in the OrACELL group compared to females.Conclusions: Early wound healing and remodeling of OrACELL appeared to occur more rapidly than AlloDerm and was accelerated in male rats. Whether these results have clinical implications for soft tissue grafting procedures in humans remains to be determined.

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Using the language of maps, I take on the role of cartographer by tracing emotions, sensations, perceptions and the unchartered realms of my imagination associated with being a person of an ever changing diaspora. Using acrylic paints, paper collage and charcoal on canvas and paper, I rearticulate the practice of mapping by drawing from the landscapes of my memory and imagination. This allows me to temporarily orient myself in this vast world while venturing beyond the boundaries of geography to examine the contradictions between the nature of our imagination and physical boundaries.