Exudate Volume Research Articles

Exopolysaccharides from Klebsiella oxytoca: anti-inflammatory activity

Exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Klebsiella oxytoca are of environmental, pharmaceutical, and medicinal interest. However, studies about the anti-inflammatory activity of EPS produced by this microorganism still remain limited. The aim of this study was to produce, characterize, and evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of EPS from K. oxytoca in a pleurisy model. Colorimetric analysis revealed that precipitated crude exopolysaccharides (KEPSC) and deproteinated exopolysaccharides (KEPS) present high levels of total carbohydrates (65.57% and 62.82%, respectively). Analyses of uronic acid (7.90% in KEPSC and 6.21% in KEPS) and pyruvic acid (3.01% in KEPSC and 1.68% in KEPS) confirm that the EPS are acidic. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses demonstrated that the EPS consisted of rhamnose (29.83%), glucose (11.21%), galactose (52.45%), and mannose (6.50%). The treatment of an experimental pleurisy model in rats through subcutaneous administration of 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of KEPS decreased both the volume of inflammatory exudate and the number of leukocytes recruited to the pleural cavity. The present data showed that EPS production by K. oxytoca using the method described is easy to perform and results in a good yield. In addition, we show that KEPS exhibit anti-inflammatory activity when administered subcutaneously in rats.

Anti-Inflammatory Potential of the Oleoresin from the Amazonian Tree Copaifera reticulata with an Unusual Chemical Composition in Rats.

Copaifera reticulata Ducke is a popularly known species known as copaíba that is widely spread throughout the Amazon region. The tree yields an oleoresin which is extensively used in local traditional medicine mainly as an anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive agent. The aim of the present study was to assess the anti-inflammatory potential of this oleoresin obtained from a national forest in the central Amazon which presented an unusual chemical composition. The chemical composition of volatile compounds of oleoresin was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The acute toxicity assay was performed with a single dose of 2000 mg/kg. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw edema and air pouch assays using four different C. reticulata oleoresin concentrations (10, 100, and 400 mg/kg). The exudate was evaluated for nitrite concentration through the colorimetric method and for TNF-α, IL-1β, and PGE2 by ELISA. C. reticulata oleoresin collected in the Amazonian summer contained six major sesquiterpene compounds (β-bisabolene, cis-eudesma-6,11-diene, trans-α-bergamotene, β-selinene, α-selinene, and β-elemene) and was nontoxic at a dose of 2000 mg/kg, showing low acute toxicity. Different from oleoresin obtained from other sites of the Brazilian Amazon, the major volatile compound found was β-Bisabolene with 25.15%. This β-Bisabolene-rich oleoresin reduced the formation of paw edema induced by carrageenan and reduced the global number of cells in the air pouch assay, as well as exudate volume and nitrite, TNF-α, IL-1β, and prostaglandin E2 levels (p < 0.05). C. reticulata oleoresin with a high β-Bisabolene concentration showed anti-inflammatory activity, reducing vascular permeability and consequently edema formation, and thus reducing cell migration and the production of inflammatory cytokine, confirming its traditional use by local Amazonian communities.

ANTI INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF SUNGKAI LEAVES (Peronema canescens JACK) ETHANOL EXTRACT IN CARRAGEENAN INDUCED MICE

Anti-inflammatory compounds play a role by inhibiting the formation of prostaglandin mediators, inhibiting the migration of leukocytes to the area of ​​inflammation, and inhibiting the release of prostaglandins from the cells where they are located. Several plant-derived compounds that can act as anti-inflammatory candidates are flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, and phenols. This study aims to determine the anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanol extract of Sungkai leaves and to determine the effect of the concentration given on the level of anti-inflammatory activity. The method used was the formation of granuloma pockets and edema on the mice's backs by inducing subcutaneous carrageenan using ethanol extract of Sungkai leaves with various concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%, respectively. The results of anti-inflammatory activity showed that the ethanol extract of Sungkai leaves had a significant effect on the average exudate volume and the percentage of inflammation inhibition. At a concentration of 15%, the extract was able to reduce the volume of exudate by 46,67 ± 5,506 µl and inhibition of inflammation by 87.78%. In addition, the ethanol extract of Sungkai leaves significantly affected lymphocytes, stem neutrophils, and segment neutrophils, but did not significantly affect the number of monocyte cells. At a concentration of 15%, the ethanol extract of Sungkai leaves showed the smallest number of leukocyte cell types, namely 50.11 ± 2.389 lymphocyte cells; stem neutrophil cells 10,44 ± 0,475; segmented neutrophil cells were 19.78 ± 0.596 and monocyte cells 2,0 ± 0,236. It can be concluded that the ethanol extract of Sungkai leaves has anti-inflammatory activity but has not approached the effect of anti-inflammatory drugs in general.

Topical anti-inflammatory effect of Ekor Naga (Rhaphidophora pinnata (L.f) Schott) leaves extract

Ekor Naga ( Rhaphidophora pinnata (L.f) Schott) leaves are leaves that contain secondary metabolites which can be developed into medicine. Ekor Naga leaves have secondary metabolite compounds of flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoid saponins, steroids, tannins, and phenols. This metabolite compound is the basis for testing the anti-inflammatory effect of Ekor Naga leaves extract using topical methods. The purpose of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of the ethanol extract of Ekor Naga leaves by a topical method. This study used five treatment groups with five mice in each treatment. This research tested the anti-inflammatory activity of Ekor Naga leaves extract by using the combination of 2 methods; namely the method of forming airbags and the formation of artificial edema using the induction of 2% carrageenan solution with the observation parameters being the measurement of exudate volume and differentiation of the number of leukocyte cells observed under a microscope. The results showed that the Ekor Naga leaves extract had an anti-inflammatory effect. The best inflammatory effect is a concentration of 10%, followed by a concentration of 5% and 2.5%.

Models of Inflammation: Carrageenan Air Pouch.

The subcutaneous air pouch is an in vivo model that can be used to study the components of acute and chronic inflammation, the resolution of the inflammatory response, the oxidative stress response, and potential therapeutic targets for treating inflammation. Injection of irritants into an air pouch in rats or mice induces an inflammatory response that can be quantified by the volume of exudate produced, the infiltration of cells, and the release of inflammatory mediators. The model presented in this article has been extensively used to identify potential anti-inflammatory drugs. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol: Air pouch model in the rat Alternate Protocol: Air pouch model in the mouse.

Antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Momordica charantia L. foliage extract

Context: Momordica charantia (Cucurbitaceae) is extensively distributed in tropical areas, and it is traditionally used as antidiabetic. Nevertheless, few studies supporting the metabolic effects of its foliage extracts have been reported elsewhere. Aims: To evaluate the effects of M. charantia foliage extract (MCh) on blood glucose and lipids levels in animal models of hyperglycemia. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties together with the acute toxicity and genotoxic effects were also assessed. Methods: An MCh powder was obtained by spray-drying techniques. The anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of MCh were evaluated in the glucose tolerance test and the alloxan-induced diabetes, respectively. The in vitro and ex vivo MCh antioxidant effects were assessed against the 2,2´-azinobis3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), peroxyl, and superoxide anion radicals. The MCh anti-inflammatory effects were also assessed together with its toxicological profile by means of the Acute Toxic Class Method, and the chromosome aberration assay. Results: MCh administered orally diminished the glucose and lipids levels in normoglycemic healthy rats and alloxan-induced hyperglycemic mice. Strong in vitro free radical scavenging effects was demonstrated by MCh against ABTS, peroxyl, and superoxide anion radicals. The extract also improved the free radical scavenging ability of diabetic mice serum. Moreover, MCh reduced the weight of cotton-induced granulomas in mice, the exudate volume, and its leukocyte counts in carrageenan-induced pleurisy in rats. Very low MCh toxicity was also verified. Conclusions: The hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities here observed make the spray-drayed powder from M. charantia foliage extract an interesting alternative for the correction of diabetes and its complications.

Treatment algorithms for malignancies accompanied by pleural effusion

Pleural effusion accompanying malignant lesions of the pleura is often a marker of the spread of the tumour process. Effusion is associated with the limited opportunities of the local control and as a consequence with poor long-term results. The morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular features of the tumour are important prognostic and predictive factors that largely determine the therapeutic tactics. Clinical guidelines in the vast majority of cases with pleural effusion indicate that the treatment goal is palliation. The main goal in these patients is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Asymptomatic pleural effusion does not require treatment. Thoracentesis or symptomatic drainage provides immediate relief. With low exudate volumes and accumulation rate, rare relapses and the expected response from the systemic treatment, or, on the other hand, a short expectancy of life, it is possible to limit the management of such cases with symptomatic drainage only. In selected individuals with pleural effusion minimally invasive or surgical interventions are also recommended. These include the installation of indwelling pleural catheters, the implementation of various pleurodesis techniques. In selected subgroups, the local control can reach 87-96%. The introduction of modern surgical techniques for pleural procedures has reduced the incidence of adverse events rate to 2,7-4%. There is no doubt that it is necessary to improve algorithms and search for alternate ve solutions, including those based on combined approaches to the treatment of patients with malignant neoplastic lesions of the pleura.

Novel Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy System Provides Accurate Pressure Delivery and Exceptional Fluid Handling Capability.

Negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a widely accepted modality in the treatment of complex wounds.1 However, there are fundamental requirements2 not incorporated in all current NPWT systems that must be met in order to realize its full clinical benefits, which include (1) accurately delivering a set level of negative pressure to the wound bed, (2) creating a pressure gradient between the wound bed and the waste canister to efficiently remove fluid and prevent stagnation in the tubing, and (3) maintaining a sealed wound environment. The objective of this investigation3 was to use a simulated wound model to compare the ability of two NPWT systems (System A, Invia® Liberty™ [Medela AG] and System B, V.A.C.ULTA™ [3M+KCI]) to deliver set levels of NPWT and simultaneously manage volumes of simulated wound exudate.* TEST METHOD 1: ACCURATE PRESSURE DELIVERY TO THE WOUND BED This test assessed the ability of System A and System B to accurately deliver set pressure to the wound at three different heights with respect to the wound model and was repeated at two different pressure settings. Data were recorded three times at each height and pressure setting (Figure 1).Figure 1.: TEST METHODOLOGY FOR 1 M ABOVE, SAME LEVEL, AND 1 M BELOWResults. Both System A and System B accurately and precisely delivered the set level of negative pressure regardless of their position relative to the wound model without pressure loss. (Figure 1). TEST METHOD 2: EFFICIENT EXUDATE REMOVAL System A and System B were compared to assess their ability to efficiently remove simulated wound fluid at a pressure setting of −125 mmHg. The test was repeated three times per system. Wound models were dressed with the respective black foam dressing kits specific to each NPWT system, and the systems were set up to simulate the delivery of therapy with the wound and at the same height. After each system’s wound dressing was applied, therapy was initiated and allowed to reach a steady state (~10 minutes), and pressure sensors confirmed pressure at the wound bed of −125 mmHg. After this, 150 ml of simulated wound fluid was introduced into the wound model. Measurements of airflow cycles, pressure at the wound bed, and fluid weight in the canister were continuously recorded (Figure 2). This test method simulated a bolus fluid challenge and measured each NPWT system’s distinct ability to efficiently react and manage wound fluid. (The results shown here represent a set pressure of 125 mmHg with the device at the same level as the wound model; similar observations were made at a set pressure of −75 mmHg [data not shown].)Figure 2.: TEST METHOD AT THE SAME LEVELResults. System A removed simulated wound fluid more efficiently than System B, evacuating 89% of the fluid from the simulated wound into the canister in less than 20 minutes after introduction of the fluid. System B did not attain 89% fluid removal throughout the 125-minute duration of the experiment (Figure 3).Figure 3.: COMPARISON OF EXUDATE REMOVAL RATESIn less than 20 minutes, System A was able to reestablish a set pressure of −125 mmHg, returning patency and delivering consistent levels of therapy at the wound bed. System B fluctuated widely from the set pressure (−125 mmHg) throughout the test method. In addition, System B had frequent excursions that exceeded +/−10 mmHg of the set pressure, directly impacting its ability to maintain set pressure at the wound bed (Figure 4).Figure 4.: COMPARISON OF PRESSURE DELIVERY AT THE WOUND BEDCONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the Intelligent Pressure Control™ and Dynamic Exudate Removal™ technologies provided by System A; it improved fluid management and helped reduce the risk of tubing blockages from simulated exudate while maintaining a set pressure at the wound bed. The results confirm the Intelligent Pressure Control™ feature illustrated by System A meets the standard of care. Further, the results of the bolus fluid challenge illustrate that the Dynamic Exudate Removal™ (unique to System A) allowed for faster and more efficient removal of fluid volumes while maintaining set pressure at the wound bed when compared with System B. Accordingly, System A innovates the standard of care.

Study of anti-inflammatory activity of Ficus racemosa linn stem bark extract in albino rats

Background: Inflammation is part of the complex biological response of vascular tissues to harmful stimuli. Though there are standard anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, diclofenac, etc., these are not free of side effects. This has led to an increase in demand for natural products with anti-inflammatory activity having less side effects. Hence the study was conducted to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic extract of Ficus racemose (EEFR) in albino rats.Methods: Healthy albino rats of either sex were divided into 4 groups of 6 animals each. Group1-control, group 2-diclofenac sodium 2 mg/kg and group 3 and 4 EEFR (200 and 400 mg/kg respectively), anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by Carrageenan induced paw oedema: formalin induced-peritonitis and cotton pellet induced granuloma model for in vivo activity and protein denaturation test for in vitro activity.Results: EEFR exhibited significant in vitro (p&lt;0.001) anti-inflammatory effect at the dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg. EEFR produced 61.37% inhibition at the dose of 400 mg/kg and diclofenac (standard drug) produced 62.95% of inhibition after 3 hours of drug treatment in carrageenan induced paw oedema. The exudate volume was decreased in formalin induced peritonitis by EEFR and diclofenac significantly (p&lt;0.001). In cotton pellet induced granuloma EEFR (400 mg/kg) and diclofenac showed decreased formation of granuloma by 28.36% and 28.00% (p&lt;0.001) respectively.Conclusions: EEFR has significant anti-inflammatory activity in both acute and chronic model in a dose dependant manner in comparison with standard drug.

A comparison of the efficacy of autologous fibrin glue/platelet-poor plasma versus suction drainage in preventing hematoma and seroma in rhytidectomy: A randomized, double-blind, controlled study

One of the most feared complications of rhytidectomy is the formation of hematoma and seroma, which may harm patients' health and compromise the surgical outcome. To compare the efficacy of autologous fibrin glue/platelet-poor plasma versus suction drainage in preventing surgical complications such as hematoma and seroma following rhytidectomy procedures. A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study was conducted to compare the efficacy of the two interventions. Seventy-two patients were selected and divided into two groups of 36 (autologous fibrin glue versus suction drainage). Forty-eight hours after the procedures, all patients underwent ultrasound examination, always by the same radiologist, to measure the volume of exudate under the facial skin flaps. The mean total volume of exudate was 3.21 mL in the suction drainage group and 1.02 mL in the fibrin glue group, with effect size of 68.1% and confidence interval of 55.3 to 77.2 (P < 0.001). Results significantly favor the use of fibrin glue and show that it was 68.1% more effective than suction drainage in preventing hematoma or seroma in rhytidectomy procedures.

Clinical efficacy and influencing factors of different modes of continuous negative pressure wound therapy on venous ulcer wounds of lower limbs

Clinical efficacy and influencing factors of different modes of continuous negative pressure wound therapy on venous ulcer wounds of lower limbs

Sesamin attenuates carrageenan-induced lung inflammation through upregulation of A20 and TAX1BP1 in rats

Sesamin is a major component in lignans of sesame seeds, has been described to possess a lot of biological activity. The main objective of our study was to investigate the inhibitory effect and novel molecular mechanisms of sesamin on carrageenan-induced lung inflammation in rats. Here we showed that sesamin can obviously reduce polymorphonuclear neutrophils infiltration and exudate volume. Further studies exhibited sesamin can inhibit cytokines release, polymorphonuclear neutrophils markers production and the degree of lung tissues injury. Western blot analysis revealed that sesamin can inhibit the TRAF6 expression and NF-κB pathway activation in lung tissue. We found that sesamin can increase the expression of A20 and TAX1BP1 in lung tissues, and the interaction between the two molecules. In conclusion, all these results demonstrated that sesamin can attenuate carrageenan-induced lung inflammation, the mechanisms that may be related to upregulation of the novel target A20 and TAX1BP1 which can negative regulation for NF-κB pathway. Importantly, this is the first evidence showing that TAX1BP1 can be as a novel regulatory target to attenuate the lung inflammation.

Randomized controlled trial on application of negative pressure materials of polyvinyl alcohol and polyurethane in full-thickness burn wounds after escharotomy

Randomized controlled trial on application of negative pressure materials of polyvinyl alcohol and polyurethane in full-thickness burn wounds after escharotomy

The protective role of localized nitric oxide production during inflammation may be mediated by the heme oxygenase-1/carbon monoxide pathway

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important part of the host defense mechanism; however, it displays both pro- and anti-inflammatory properties depending on its location and concentration. Importantly, excessive or inappropriate NO production can cause tissue damage. Systemic and local administration of NO synthase (NOS) inhibitors ameliorates and may exacerbate the inflammatory response, respectively. Here, we used a carrageenan-induced pleurisy model of acute inflammation in rats to confirm the location-dependent effects of NO and investigate the underlying mechanisms. As expected, localized suppression of NO production exacerbated inflammation, as evidenced by increased pleural exudate volumes and leukocyte counts and enhanced activity of enzymes related to oxidative stress. In contrast, local NO supplementation reduced leukocyte infiltration, vascular permeability, and the activity of oxidative stress-related enzymes. Interestingly, inhibition of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) reversed the anti-inflammatory effects of localized NO production, while the addition of hemin (HO-1 substrate) or carbon monoxide (CO; HO-1 metabolite) decreased leukocyte migration and exudation. Together, these findings confirm a protective role for NO at the inflammatory site, which appears to be mediated via NOS induction of the HO-1/CO pathway. Thus, NO supplementation may be a potential new treatment for oxidative stress-associated inflammatory diseases.

Conservative treatment of facial burns

Objective: compare the effectiveness of using a moisturizer containing antibacterial drugs of plant origin with a water-soluble ointment that includes the antibiotic chloramphenicol in the treatment of victims with burns of the face II-IIIа degrees.Materials and methods: The results of treatment of 27 victims (12 men and 15 women) with burns of the face and other areas of the body of I – II degree with a total area of 1 to 6 % of the body surface at the age of 18 – 60 years were analyzed. In the main group (13 patients), a cream containing antibacterial drugs of plant origin was used. In the control group (14 patients), bandages with a water-soluble ointment containing an artificial synthesized antibiotic chloramphenicol were used. Visually evaluated the course of the wound process, the nature and volume of exudate, the healing time of burn wounds when using ointments. Seeding of the wound discharge was done on the day of admission, on the 5th and 10th day of treatment. The structure and number of microflora of burn wounds were studied.Results: in the third seeding of the main group, the concentration of bacteria was (2.4 ± 0.04) x103 CFU / g. in the third seeding of the control group, the concentration of microorganisms was (5.9 ± 0.03)×105 CFU / g. the duration of hospitalization in the main group was 18.1 ± 1.5 days, in the control group — 23.8 ± 1.9 days.Conclusions: cream containing antibacterial preparations of plant origin, in comparison with a water-soluble ointment that includes an artificial synthesized antibiotic chloramphenicol, reduces the bacterial contamination of wounds in victims with superficial burns of the face by 2×102 times, the duration of inpatient treatment for 5 days (p &lt; 0.05).

Aqueous extract of dry powder blend of seeds and leaves of Picralima nitida (Stapf) T. & H. Durand reduce pain and inflammation in animal models.

Blend of seeds and leaves of Picralima nitida herein referred to as West African Durand powder (WDP) was investigated for antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties. Acute toxic effect of the aqueous extract was evaluated in mice of both sexes. Antinociceptive effect of WDP (100-400mg/kg) was evaluated in models of acetic acid-induced writhing and thermal nociception on hot plate in mice. Carrageenan-induced paw oedema and air pouch rat models were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract. WDP (2,000mg/kg) showed no toxic effect in mice. WDP at 100, 200 and 400mg/kg inhibited abdominal writhings by 59.9, 66.0 and 79.0%, respectively. There was a significant increase in reaction time on the hot plate tests in mice treated with WDP (400mg/kg). The paw oedema was reduced by WDP (100, 200 and 400mg/kg) 5h post-carrageeenan. Exudate volume was significantly reduced to 39.8 and 44.8% by 200 and 400mg/kg WDP, respectively. WDP reduced Leucocytes counts (23.3 and 57.1%, respectively) and neutrophil counts (28.1 and 60.0%, as well as reduced nitrites, malondialdehyde levels and increased glutathione concentrations in the air pouch. These results suggest that aqueous extract of blend of seeds and leaves of P. nitida possesses antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties.

Evaluation of Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Leg Wounds: Can Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy Help?

Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the quality of life (QoL) using platelet-rich plasma gel (PRP) and conventional treatment of chronic leg wounds. Methods. Randomized clinical trial was carried out in Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics during 2014–2018. Patients (n = 69) included in the study were randomly grouped into 2 groups: 1) PRP, 2) Control. SF-36 questionnaire was used to evaluate QoL, visual analog scale was used to evaluate persistent pain associated with ulcer and wound exudate volume was also evaluated. Statistical analysis were performed with SPSS 23.0 package. Results. Patients in PRP group at the end of the treatment rated their QoL over control group patients (p &lt; 0.05). Wound associated pain (PRP – 1.54; control – 2.85; p = 0.015) and pain associated sleep disturbance (p &lt; 0.001) was lower in PRP group patients. Wound exudate volume was lower in PRP group patients at the end of the treatment (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion. The treatment with PRP is associated with less wound associated pain, less-common sleep disturbance, reduced wound secretion and improved quality of life compared to conventional treatment.

Dose-dependent effect of plasma-chemical NO-containing gas flow on wound healing. An experimental study

BackgroundIt is known that exogenous nitric oxide (NO) has a bactericidal effect, activates proliferation of fibroblasts, enhances angiogenesis and collagen synthesis, accelerates maturation of granulation tissue. ObjectiveThe purpose of this research was to study the dose-dependent therapeutic effect of nitric oxide (NO) in NO-containing gas flows (NO-CGF) applied to the wound surfaces. MethodsThe experiment was performed in 36 white Wistar rats with full-thickness skin wounds with an area size of 3 cm2. We used Plason device modified with an experimental plasma-chemical generator of nitric oxide (manipulator) for the following parameters of NO-CGF in the wound surface area: mass flow rate of nitric oxide 2.0 mg/s, axial gas flow velocity 9 m/s, nitric oxide content 1340 ppm, nitrogen dioxide content 108 ppm, gas flow temperature 39°C. Each group included 6 animals. The mass of nitric oxide delivered to the wound varied by the exposure time of 15, 30, 60, 120 and 360 seconds and was 30, 60, 120, 240 and 720 mg, respectively. Wounds were left untreated in the control group. Wound tissues were excised 4 days after the operation and studied with histological, semi-quantitative and morphometric methods. ResultsHistological analysis revealed beneficial effects of NO therapy on wound healing, including reduction of microcirculatory disorders and exudate volume and acceleration of fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. We proved that the most effective stimulation of the wound healing process occurred with a duration of exposure of 120 and 360 seconds (integral mass doses of NO on the wound surfaces were 240 mg and 720 mg, relative mass doses of NO per wound areas were 80 mg/cm2 and 240 mg/cm2, respectively). We did not identify the overdose phenomena after prolonged exposure of the wound to NO. ConclusionOur results are important for further improvement of the technique and the standardization of NO-therapy for the treatment of wounds, inflammatory and destructive processes in clinical practice.

Anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanol extract and fractions of Morus mesozygia Stapf (Moraceae) leaves and its underlying mechanisms in rodents

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMorus mesozygia Stapf (Moraceae), commonly known as African mulberry, is traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory disorders such as rheumatism and dermatitis. AimThis work aimed to evaluate the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of its ethanol (EEMm) extract, and ethylacetate fraction (EAFMm). MethodsThe anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of ethanol extracts of M. mesozygia (EEMm), and its ethylacetate (EAFMm) and residual aqueous fraction (RAFMm) was evaluated in hotplate, acetic acid and formalin tests and as well in membrane stabilizing assay and carrageenan-induced paw oedema models. Mechanism of anti-inflammation of EAFMm was investigated in the carrageenan-induced air-pouch model. ResultsIn the hot plate test of nociception, only the EAFMm showed significant (p < 0.05) anti-nociceptive activity. The extract and fractions significantly reduced number of writhing with EAFMm (400 mg/kg) showing highest inhibition (66.5%) in the acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. EEMm and EAFMm (400 mg/kg) significantly reduced the paw licking time in the early and late phases of the formalin test. The extract and fractions showed good membrane stabilizing activity comparable to indomethacin. EAFMm (100 and 400 mg/kg) showed the highest inhibition of paw oedema (53.4% and 58.1%) in the carrageenan-induced paw oedema model. The EAFMm (100 and 400 mg/kg) reduced exudate volume relative to carrageenan-control (2.64 ± 0.22, 2.08 ± 0.15 vs 3.83 ± 0.18 mL) and neutrophils (8.98 ± 1.36, 8.00 ± 0.22 vs 20.51 ± 1.14) in carrageenan-induced pouch. EAFMm significantly reduced exudate volume, pro-inflammatory cytokines and the expression of COX-2 and NFκB. ConclusionM. mesozygia leaves demonstrated anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities by suppressing oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor kappa B.

Surgical wound assessment in Vietnam: a think-aloud technique and interview analysis.

To identify the key components of a surgical wound assessment tool that nurses in Vietnam could use when conducting a surgical wound assessment. The study also explored Vietnamese nurses' perceptions of current practices in surgical wound assessment and assessed their requirements for a surgical wound assessment tool. Registered nurses from surgical wards in a Vietnamese hospital were invited to participate in this descriptive, qualitative study. A combination of the think-aloud technique and semi-structured interviews was undertaken. Transcribed responses were analysed using inductive content analysis to indicate how Vietnamese nurses undertook wound assessment and the data they collected. A total of 13 nurses took part. Data from both the think-aloud process and interviews indicated that nurses evaluated surgical wounds based on their experience and observation without using standard guidelines. Some components, such as wound edge, periwound skin, exudate volume and signs of infection, were identified by the nurses. Other wound characteristics, such as wound site, wound bed, exudate and pain, and risk factors were less frequently collected. Nurses expressed their need for a tool with comprehensive content, precise terms, user-friendly language and a scoring system to facilitate their wound assessment. Hospitals in Vietnam need a standard tool to help nurses improve surgical wound assessment in daily nursing practice, and to enhance multidisciplinary communication and patient care.