University of Westminster

About: University of Westminster is a education organization based out in London, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Context (language use). The organization has 2944 authors who have published 8426 publications receiving 200236 citations. The organization is also known as: Westminster University & Royal Polytechnic Institution.

In vitro biocompatibility of 45S5 Bioglass®-derived glass–ceramic scaffolds coated with poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)

Abstract: The aim of this work was to study the in vitro biocompatibility of glass-ceramic scaffolds based on 45S5 Bioglass®, using a human osteosarcoma cell line (HOS-TE85). The highly porous scaffolds were produced by the foam replication technique. Two different types of scaffolds with different porosities were analysed. They were coated with a biodegradable polymer, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB)). The scaffold bioactivity was evaluated by soaking in a simulated body fluid (SBF) for different durations. Compression strength tests were performed before and after immersion in SBF. These experiments showed that the scaffolds are highly bioactive, as after a few days of immersion in SBF a hydroxyapatite-like layer was formed on the scaffold's surface. It was also observed that P(3HB)-coated samples exhibited higher values of compression strength than uncoated samples. Biocompatibility assessment was carried out by qualitative evaluation of cell morphology after different culture periods, using scanning electron microscopy, while cell proliferation was determined by using the AlamarBlueTM assay. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OC) assays were used as quantitative in vitro indicators of osteoblast function. Two different types of medium were used for ALP and OC tests: normal supplemented medium and osteogenic medium. HOS cells were seeded and cultured onto the scaffolds for up to 2 weeks. The AlamarBlue assay showed that cells were able to proliferate and grow on the scaffold surface. After 7 days in culture, the P(3HB)-coated samples had a higher number of cells on their surfaces than the uncoated samples. Regarding ALP- and OC-specific activity, no significant differences were found between samples with different pore sizes. All scaffolds containing osteogenic medium seemed to have a slightly higher level of ALP and OC concentration. These experiments confirmed that Bioglass®/P(3HB) scaffolds have potential as osteoconductive tissue engineering substrates for maintenance and normal functioning of bone tissue.

Apprenticeship and Applied Theoretical Knowledge

Abstract: (2004). Apprenticeship and Applied Theoretical Knowledge. Educational Philosophy and Theory: Vol. 36, No. 5, pp. 509-521.

Exercise Training Reduces Liver Fat and Increases Rates of VLDL Clearance But Not VLDL Production in NAFLD

Abstract: Context: Randomized controlled trials in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have shown that regular exercise, even without calorie restriction, reduces liver steatosis. A previous study has shown that 16 weeks of supervised exercise training in NAFLD did not affect total very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) kinetics. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the effect of exercise training on intrahepatocellular fat (IHCL) and the kinetics of large triglyceride (TG)-rich VLDL1 and smaller denser VLDL2, which has a lower TG content. Design: This was a 16-week randomized controlled trial. Patients: A total of 27 sedentary patients with NAFLD participated in the trial. Intervention: The intervention was composed of supervised exercise with moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or conventional lifestyle advice (control). Main Outcome: VLDL1 and VLDL2-TG and apolipoprotein B (apoB) kinetics were investigated using stable isotopes before and after the intervention. Results: In the exercise group...