Exudate Levels Research Articles

POSSIBILITIES OF NON-STANDARD METHODS FOR TREATING INFECTED WOUNDS

Summary. Introduction. Some representatives of the microcosm can secrete a variety of biologically active substances that have a detrimental effect on other groups of microorganisms. The geniuses of humanity noticed this, and today medicine has about 1600 antibacterial drugs. However, the struggle for survival at all levels continues. Many bacteria have become resistant to existing antibiotics. Taking this into account, the treatment of purulent-inflammatory diseases faces insurmountable difficulties. Contaminated ulcerative processes and various wounds of the legs are accompanied by suppuration, the treatment of which is extended by weeks and months. The above justifies the relevance of the problem. Aim: to study the possibilities of using non-standard methods for treating purulent and infected wounds and ulcers. Materials and methods. In experimental conditions (patent), we studied and tested the treatment of purulent ulcers (S=2.0–42.0 cm2) and wounds (S=22.0–48.0 cm2) in 21 patients without the use of antibiotics. Apatite polymer drainage bandages (APDB) were applied under compression conditions. Results and discussion. The dressing was changed after 12–24–48 hours, depending on the exudation level. The clinical effect was observed from the 4th day. Epithelization of wound surfaces was observed on days 14–21, of ulcerative defects – on days 18–32. Conclusions. APDB based on zinc oxide may be an alternative to existing standard treatment methods for purulent diseases. Funding. This study was carried out with grant support from the National Research Foundation of Ukraine (project No. 2023.04/0109).

Influence of copper ion cross-linked CMC-PVA film on cell viability and cell proliferation study

In this study, films composed of carboxymethyl cellulose and polyvinyl alcohol were fabricated using the solution casting method. Citric acid (4 %) was employed as a cross-linking agent, while glycerol (3 %) as a plasticizer. Cupric chloride (CuCl2·2H2O) was used for cross-linking at concentrations 0.5 %, 1 %, and 3 % over different times. The cross-linking with copper ions led to a noticeable reduction in elasticity, with the breaking strain ranging from 17.9 %–52.9 %. The ion hydration phenomenon increased the contact angle and swelling ratio. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed esterification reactions and copper ion cross-linking with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na-CMC). The films showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The ion-released mechanism followed was the non-Fickian super case-II type. The concentration and duration of cross-linking significantly influenced cell viability and proliferation. FE-SEM analysis revealed that effective concentrations of CuCl2.2H2O were 0.5 % and 1 %, and cross-linking times were 5–15 min, facilitating cell attachment and proliferation. Films are non-adhesive with water vapor permeation 800–900 g/m2/day. These results indicate the potential use of the films in treating second-degree burn wounds with low to medium exudate levels. This study provides valuable insights into the development of copper-infused materials for advanced wound healing applications.

Extraction of egg yolk lipids via salt-induced synergistic heat treatment: Fabrication, characterization and flavor analysis

In this study, the oxidation of egg yolk lipids (EYL) by salt-induced heat and non-heat treatments was investigated for quality and flavor. The correlation between physicochemical properties, lipid oxidation and antioxidant activity was modeled using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The results indicated that the prolonged salt-induced synergistic heat treatment produced the highest level of lipid oxidation, antioxidant activity and oil exudation, along with the lowest level of polyunsaturated fatty acid content. In addition, higher contents of pyrazines and fewer acid species were detected, which was not the case with the salt-free heat treatment. In total, 14 identical volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were produced, yet their overall flavor profiles determined by the electronic nose would remain dramatically distinguished. Therefore, heat treatment was particularly critical for lipid oxidation and the generation of aromatic compounds, implying that heat-treated EYL induced by salt is a flavor component with good antioxidant potential.

Electrospun nanofibrous wound dressings with enhanced efficiency through carbon quantum dots and citrate incorporation

Nanofibers show promise for wound healing by facilitating active agent delivery, moisture retention, and tissue regeneration. However, selecting suitable dressings for diverse wound types and managing varying exudate levels remains challenging. This study synthesized carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from citrate salt and thiourea using a hydrothermal method. The CQDs displayed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A nanoscaffold comprising gelatin, chitosan, and polycaprolactone (GCP) was synthesized and enhanced with silver nanoparticle-coated CQDs (Ag-CQDs) to form GCP-Q, while citrate addition yielded GCP-QC. Multiple analytical techniques, including electron microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV–Vis, photoluminescence, X-ray diffraction, porosity, degradability, contact angle, and histopathology assessments characterized the CQDs and nanofibers. Integration of CQDs and citrate into the GCP nanofibers increased porosity, hydrophilicity, and degradability—properties favorable for wound healing. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed accelerated wound closure with GCP-Q and GCP-QC compared to GCP alone. Overall, GCP-Q and GCP-QC nanofibers exhibit significant potential for skin tissue engineering applications.

Impact of acute stress disorder on surfactant protein D levels in acute lung injury.

Many people sustain acute lung injuries in road traffic collisions, but few studies have dealt with such injuries in live models. This study aimed to explore the basic pathophysiological and inflammatory changes in adult rabbits following acute thoracic trauma. We randomly assigned 50 rabbits to control and injury groups. Rabbits in the injury group were subjected to right chest pressure (2600g) using a Hopkinson bar. Measurements were taken in the control group and 0, 24, 48, and 72h after injury in the injury group. Injury severity was evaluated in gross view; with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining; and through the serum changes of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), surfactant protein D (SP-D), and neutrophils. Secretion changes in SP-D in right lung injured tissues were estimated by western blotting and qPCR. Serum TNF-α levels increased rapidly immediately after injury, gradually recovering after 24, 48, and 72h (p < 0.01). The percentage of neutrophils in the accompanying blood showed a consistent trend. Gross necropsy and H&E staining indicated different levels of bleeding, alveoli exudation, and inflammatory transformation after impact. ELISA depicted the same trend in circulation (F = 22.902, p < 0.01). Western blotting showed that SP-D protein levels in tissues decreased at 0h and increased at 24, 48, and 72h. We demonstrate the feasibility of a model of impact lung injury. Primary impact caused injury without external signs. Inflammation began immediately, and the lungs began recovering at 24, 48, and 72h, as shown by increased SP-D levels in circulation and tissues.With complaints of ALI and inflammation, SP-D may be a potential biomarker after chest trauma.

Performance of a silicone foam dressing in management of wounds in a community setting: a sub-analysis of the VIPES study.

Managing the gap between the dressing and the wound bed can facilitate the healing of exuding wounds. A silicone foam dressing (Biatain Silicone; Coloplast A/S, Denmark) was developed for application to exuding wounds. A sub-analysis of the real-world, prospective, observational VIPES (Observatoire en Ville des Plaies ExSudatives) study was conducted to investigate the use and performance of the silicone foam dressing in a community nursing setting in France. The sub-analysis included patients from the VIPES study who received the silicone foam dressing as a primary dressing for an acute or hard-to-heal (chronic) wound. Epidemiological and wound healing outcomes were reported via a smartphone application. Overall, 64 patients were included in the sub-analysis. At baseline, most wounds (n=33/40; 82.5%) were in treatment failure (i.e., were stagnant, non-healing or had poor exudate management). At the last follow-up visit, a median of 22.5 (range: 3-151) days post baseline, 48.4% of wounds had healed and 25.0% were progressing towards healing. From baseline to the last follow-up visit, significant reductions in exudate level (p<0.0001) and exudate pooling (p<0.0001), and significant improvements in wound edges (p≤0.0001) and periwound skin (p<0.01) were observed. A total of 62.3% of patients had re-epithelialising wounds at the last follow-up visit. The majority of nurses (88.3%) and patients (85.0%) reported that the wound had improved and, at most dressing removals (93.5%), nurses reported that the dressing conformed closely to the wound bed. Overall, the data suggest that use of the silicone foam dressing in community practice supported the healing of wounds, illustrating the importance of exudate and gap management.

The Evolution of Commercial Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Systems over the Past Three Decades.

Significance: Since the introduction of the first commercial negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) system nearly three decades ago, several key technological innovations have led to the wide adoption of the therapy. This is a review of the history and innovation of commercial NPWT systems for adjunctive management of open wounds. Recent Advances: Technical modifications have broadened NPWT options to include innovative dressing interfaces, tubing configurations, power sources, capability of topical wound solution instillation or irrigation, canister versus canister-free configurations, smart technology, and disposable versus larger reusable therapy units. While these options complicate product selection, they have greatly expanded the potential to manage a wide variety of wounds in patients who previously may not have been candidates for NPWT. Critical Issues: Basic yet mandatory requirements of NPWT include delivering an accurate level of negative pressure to the wound bed, maintaining a seal, removing wound surface exudate through the dressing interface, and patient adherence to prescribed therapy. Meeting these requirements is challenging in the face of variable wound types, wound locations, exudate levels, and exudate viscosity. While there are a growing number of marketed NPWT systems, each may have different characteristics and performance. Evaluating the functionality of each system and relevant accessories is complicated, especially as additional manufacturers enter the market. Understanding the key innovations and specific challenges they are intended to solve may aid health care providers in selecting appropriate NPWT technologies for patients. Future Directions: Evolving technology, including artificial intelligence, will likely play a major role in redefining NPWT safety, simplicity, and reliability.

Performance of a gelling fibre dressing in management of wounds in a community setting: a sub-analysis of the VIPES study.

To evaluate the use and performance of a gelling fibre dressing (Biatain Fiber; Coloplast A/S, Denmark) in the management of wounds in community nursing practice. A sub-analysis of the prospective, observational, real-world VIPES (Observatoire en Ville des Plaies ExSudatives) study was conducted. Patients with exuding wounds, for which nurses chose to apply the gelling fibre as a primary dressing, were included. Outcomes included assessments of wound condition and patient/nurse opinion. Overall, 149 patients with acute (n=52; 34.9%) or hard-to-heal (chronic) (n=97; 65.1%) wounds were included. At baseline, mean±standard deviation wound age was 351.5±998.2 days, 108 (72.5%) wounds were moderately-to-highly exuding, and 126 (84.6%) showed exudate pooling in the wound bed. At the last follow-up visit, 29 (19.5%) wounds had healed, within a median of 36 days, and 64 (43.0%) were progressing towards healing. From baseline to the last follow-up visit, significant reductions in wound surface area (p<0.05), depth (p<0.01), exudate level (p<0.0001), and in the proportion of wounds with sloughy tissue (p<0.0001) were observed. Most wounds had no (n=86; 58.5% (two missing values)) or low exudate pooling (n=45; 30.6% (two missing values)) at the last visit and proportions of patients with healthy wound edges/periwound skin increased from baseline. At the last visit, wounds were considered improved by nurses in 71.4% (n=105) of cases, and by patients in 66.7% (n=98) of cases (two patients missing). Patients who received treatment with the gelling fibre experienced improvements in the condition of a range of complex wounds. This analysis highlights the importance of adequate exudate management, and indicates how the selection of an appropriate wound dressing can encourage healing progression. This study was financially supported by Laboratoires Coloplast SAS, Paris, France. Coloplast A/S funded the writing and editing of the article and contributed to its content. Coloplast A/S and Laboratoires Coloplast SAS reviewed the article for scientific accuracy. Nurses received financial compensation for their participation in the study. NA is a full-time employee of Coloplast A/S. APJ was an employee of Coloplast A/S when this article was written. FA was a full-time employee of Laboratoires Coloplast SAS at the time of publication development. RS and CJ are full-time employees of CEN Biotech. AK received an educational grant from Coloplast A/S to provide scientific input to the publication. The authors have no other conflicts of interest to declare.

Clinical performance and safety of a debridement pad with abrasive and non-abrasive fibres.

Debridement is key to removing devitalised tissue, debris and biofilm as part of wound-bed preparation. Unlike many other methods of debridement, mechanical debridement with a pad is effective enough to be used independently without an adjunctive method of debridement, while being more accessible than other standalone options. To explore the clinical performance and safety of a debridement pad with both abrasive and non-abrasive surfaces in daily clinical practice. This was a prospective, non-controlled, non-randomised, single-arm, open-label, multicentred observational evaluation. Inclusion criteria were wounds >4 cm2 covered with at least 30% debris, necrotic tissue or slough in patients aged ≥18 years. The treatment protocol comprised a single application of the debridement pad. The primary outcome measure was the amount of necrotic tissue, slough or debris in the wound bed. Secondary outcomes included the appearance of the wound bed, edges and periwound skin; self-reported pain scores; foreseeable negative impacts; and clinician satisfaction. A total of 62 participants with a variety of wound types were included in the analysis. Most wounds (87%) had been present for over 3 months and had high or moderate exudate levels (90%). A significant reduction was observed in all three parameters: necrotic tissue (p=0.043), slough (p<0.001) and debris (p<0.001). Necrotic tissue, slough and debris showed mean relative reductions of 40%, 72% and 40%, respectively. Of participants, 84% did not experience an increase in pain during the debridement procedure. This clinical real-world data shows the debridement pad to be an effective and well-tolerated device for debridement and wound bed preparation.

Improving outcomes for patients with hard-to-heal wounds following adoption of the Wound Hygiene Protocol: real-world evidence.

To evaluate the impact of a four-step biofilm-based wound care strategy, Wound Hygiene Protocol (WHP: cleanse, debride, refashion, and dress), on hard-to-heal wounds. This was a prospective, real-world analysis of hard-to-heal wounds managed with the WHP that incorporated Aquacel Ag+ (Convatec Ltd., UK) dressings. Data were captured electronically between April 2021 and December 2022. The primary endpoint was change in wound volume from baseline to final assessment. A total of 693 wounds in 669 patients (median patient age: 74 years) were included in the analysis with a median treatment time of 31 days. Most health professionals were general nurses (50%) or nurse practitioners (38%). Patient homes (27%) and community clinics (27%) were the most common clinical settings. Venous leg ulcers (26%) and pressure ulcers/injuries (17%) were the most common wound type. Duration was >12 months in 21% of wounds. At baseline, the mean wound volume was 57.8cm3. At the final assessment, mean wound volume was 17.2cm3, corresponding to an 80% reduction from baseline; p<0.001). At baseline, 66% of wounds were static or deteriorating. At final assessment, this had decreased to 5%, and 94% had improved or healed. Exudate levels were moderate or high in 69% of wounds at baseline which decreased to 25% at final assessment (p<0.001). Suspected biofilm and local wound infection decreased from 79% and 43%, respectively, at baseline, to 18% and 3%, respectively, at final assessment (p<0.001 for both). The WHP is a new proposed standard of care that successfully treated hard-to-heal wounds by addressing the key local barriers to wound healing.

Film dressings from Thai mango seed kernel extracts versus nanocrystalline silver dressings in antibacterial properties.

Introduction: The extract from the Mango Seed Kernel (MSK) has been documented to exhibit antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This suggests that biomaterials containing MSK extract could be a viable alternative to conventional wound treatments, such as nanocrystalline silver dressings. Despite this potential, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding comparing the antibacterial effectiveness of MSK film dressings with nanocrystalline silver dressings. This study aimed to develop film dressings containing MSK extract and evaluate their antibacterial properties compared to nanocrystalline silver dressings. Additionally, the study aimed to assess other vital physical properties of these dressings critical for effective wound care. Materials and methods: We prepared MSK film dressings from two cultivars of mango from Thailand, 'Chokanan' and 'Namdokmai'. The inhibition-zone method was employed to determine the antibacterial property. The morphology and chemical characterization of the prepared MSK film dressings were examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. The absorption of pseudo-wound exudate and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of film dressings were evaluated. Results: The results showed that 40% of MSKC film dressing had the highest inhibition zone (20.00 ± 0.00mm against S. aureus and 17.00 ± 1.00mm against P. aeruginosa) and 20%, 30%, and 40% of MSKC and MSKN film dressings had inhibition zones similar to nanocrystalline silver dressing for both S. aureus and P. aeruginosa (p > 0.05). In addition, all concentrations of the MSK film dressings had low absorption capacity, and Chokanan MSK (MSKC) film dressings had a higher WVTR than Namdokmai MSK (MSKN) film dressings. Conclusion: 20%, 30%, and 40% of MSK film dressing is nearly as effective as nanocrystalline silver dressing. Therefore, it has the potential to be an alternative antibacterial dressing and is suitable for wounds with low exudate levels.

Surgical Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease Against the Background of Coagulopathy of Unknown Etiology. Case Report

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases and one of the leading causes of death in the world. Diet is the first step in the prevention of CHD. Vegetarians have significantly lower risk of death from CHD, but also have changes in the hemostasis system due to a deficiency of blood clotting factors. Cardiosurgical intervention for patients with hemostatic disorders should be performed in specialized centers with the necessary support.&#x0D; Case description. A 73-year-old patient G. was hospitalized to the National Amosov Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery with angina pectoris, weakness and edema. From the past medical history it is known that the patient has been following a diet with complete exclusion of meat and dairy products for 20 years, rarely eats fish; in addition, he smoked for 20 years at a young age. After coronary angiography, the patient developed bleeding from the oral cavity of unknown origin, which resolved on its own. According to the examination, the patient was found to have a multivessel lesion of the coronary arteries, and cardiosurgical intervention was indicated: coronary bypass surgery. At a case conference with cardiovascular surgeons, anesthesiologist and cardiologist, a decision was made to perform salvage cardiac surgery. The predicted mortality risk was 7.0% by the EuroSCORE II. The early postoperative period was complicated by bleeding with subsequent revision of the pericardium to identify the source of bleeding. Coagulopathy of unknown origin was suspected. Replacement hemostatic therapy was started, which included massive blood transfusions. The pace and level of exudation significantly decreased, the operation was completed. After surgical interventions and hemotransfusions, thromboelastography was performed and plasma hypercoagulation was detected. The patient was discharged for continued cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and outpatient treatment was prescribed.&#x0D; Conclusions. This case report describes successful treatment of multivessel coronary artery disease by bypass grafting in a vegetarian patient with a coagulation disorder. Studies of the effects of a vegetarian diet on the hemostatic system indicate that vegetarians may have lower concentrations of hemostatic factors and that thrombin time is also prolonged due to the nutritional guidance provided by this diet. In addition, timely detection of a deficiency of blood coagulation factors in the plasma of a patient with such history can facilitate the diagnosis of the hemostasis system.

Photochemical processes transform dissolved organic matter differently depending on its initial composition

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is one of the most important fluxes in the global carbon cycle but its response to light exposure remains unclear at a molecular-level. The chemical response of DOM to light should vary with its molecular composition and environmental conditions while some basic hypotheses are still unclear, such as the balance between photobleaching and photo-humification and the question of oxidative properties. Here we exposed aquatic DOM from diverse freshwaters impacted by different levels of anthropogenic activity and algal exudates to environmentally-realistic light conditions. We found that photobleaching occurred in DOM with relatively high initial humic content producing low H/C molecules, whereas DOM with low initial humic content was humified. DOM pools with relatively high initial saturation and low aromaticity were prone to transform towards more unsaturated molecular formulae and high H/C molecules with a distinct decrease of bioavailability. Photo-transformation was mainly influenced by reactive intermediates, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) playing a dominant role in humification when the initial humus content of DOM was high. In contrast, for algal DOM with high protein content, it was likely that the autoxidation of excited state DOM was more important than indirect oxidation involving ROS. Our results reveal how photo-transformation patterns depend on the initial composition of DOM and provide new insights into the role of photochemical processes in biogeochemical cycling of DOM.

Thermo‐Responsive Trilayered Fibrous Dressing with Liquid Gate for Dynamical Exudate Regulation and Wound Moisture Balance

AbstractExudate plays a crucial role in wound healing, but an excessive amount can lead to over‐hydration of tissue and aggravating the infection and the injury. On the other hand, inadequate exudate can cause scarring and hinder healing. Traditional wound dressings are unable to regulate exudate levels based on the specific needs of the wound. To address this issue, a liquid‐gated trilayered fibrous wound dressing capable of pumping fluid in a temperature‐dependent manner is developed. This dressing comprises a hydrophilic cotton layer, a thermo‐sensitive (TPPU) layer, and a hydrophobic layer of polyurethane (PU) nanofibers. The TPPU layer is constituted by nanofibers that are composed of an upper critical solution temperature (UCST)‐type polymer, PU, and silver nanoparticles. The intermediate TPPU layer exhibits changes in its wettability upon heating, adjusting the thickness of the hydrophobic layer and ultimately achieving the appropriate structure for guiding spontaneous fluid transport. The positive effect of this novel dressing on diabetic wounds is observed, as it enhanced epithelialization and collagen synthesis while reducing inflammation, ultimately accelerating the wound healing process. This dressing has the potential to provide a groundbreaking solution for managing exudate, achieving moisture balance and promoting wound healing in clinical settings.

A Case Report on Theruptor Novo: An Antimicrobial Dressing in the Management of Venous Leg Ulcer

Venous Leg Ulcer (VLU) is defined as any break in the skin that has either been present for longer than six weeks or occurs in a person with a history of VLU. VLUs are intricate and life-threatening ulcerations that result in significant expenses for health services. Compression therapy is the most preferable treatment choice for VLU. Beneath the compression devices (bandages or stockings), wound dressings are used as the primary layer to protect the wound and provide a moist environment to aid ulcer healing. Healthcare professionals face difficulty in making evidence-based decisions regarding the most appropriate treatment plan for a patient with varying needs due to the vast range of wound dressings. Hereby, the author presents a case study of a 53-year-old male patient with a non healing wound with pus discharge for 20 days over the lower limb. Skin stapler (Trupler) Novo (Healthium Medtech, India) was used as the regular primary dressing along with planned treatment. By the end of three weeks, the wound size had reduced with a low exudate level, there was no sign of infection, and there was good granulation tissue growth.

Echinodorus macrophyllus: Acute toxicological evaluation of hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives from SF1 subfractions

Ethnopharmacological relevanceEchinodorus macrophyllus (Kunth.) Micheli (Alismataceae), known as chapéu-de-couro in Brazil, is popularly used to treat inflammatory diseases. We have previously demonstrated a significant reduction in the acute inflammation for the aqueous extract of E. macrophyllus (AEEm) and its ethanolic fraction (Fr20) and described that hydroxycinnamoyl derivatives present in SF1 (Fr20 subfraction) showed higher anti-inflammatory properties by mechanisms that include a reduction of TNF-α, IL-1β, CKCL1/KC, LTB4, and PGE2 levels in exudate. Aim of the studyThis work describes the acute toxicological effect of SF1 subfraction on SW mice treated orally for five days in the air pouch model by evaluating the hematological and biochemical determinations on the blood samples; the relative organ weight and its histopathological analysis; the liver genotoxicity assessment and the activity of liver enzymes from xenobiotic metabolism. Materials and methodsFr20 was earlier fractionated on the Sephadex LH-20 column, yielding mainly four subfractions, including SF1. The SF1 toxicity was evaluated in mice challenged with carrageenan on the air pouch inflammation model and orally treated for five days. The body weight was monitored daily, and the organs were weighed after the euthanasia. Hematological and biochemical determinations were carried out using specific commercial kits and following the protocols provided by the manufacturers. The organs were fixed, sectioned, processed for hematoxylin and eosin staining, and analyzed by light microscopy. Genotoxicity assessment was performed by the alkaline single-cell gel electrophoresis. Livers were processed for ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) and Glutathione S-transferase (GST) assays. ResultsSF1 exhibited low toxicity, as no significant discrepancy was observed in the relative weight of the body organs of mice. Moreover, the daily treatment with SF1 did not alter the number and percentage of red blood cells or hemoglobin concentration in the blood. The treatment with SF1 did not affect the creatinine concentration, but the 25 mg/kg dose reduced the plasma urea level and uric acid, suggesting its use in treating acute renal failure. The parameters analyzed did not present biochemical alterations indicative of liver disease. Regarding serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels, a significant decrease was detected in both parameters in mice treated with SF1. In addition, the histopathological analysis showed that inflammatory focus in the livers seemed more relevant in the control groups than in those treated. There were no significant changes in the renal or splenic tissues of animals treated with SF1. Treatment with SF1 also does not have a genotoxic effect on liver cells. ConclusionTreatment with SF1 showed no toxicity in mice at doses equivalent to those recommended for humans, which provides evidence of the safety of the therapeutic use of this subfraction.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Fucan from Spatoglossum schröederi in a Murine Model of Generalized Inflammation Induced by Zymosan.

Fucans from marine algae have been the object of many studies that demonstrated a broad spectrum of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to verify the protective effects of a fucan extracted from the brown algae Spatoglossum schröederi in animals submitted to a generalized inflammation model induced by zymosan (ZIGI). BALB/c mice were first submitted to zymosan-induced peritonitis to evaluate the treatment dose capable of inhibiting the induced cellular migration in a simple model of inflammation. Mice were treated by the intravenous route with three doses (20, 10, and 5 mg/kg) of our fucan and, 1 h later, were inoculated with an intraperitoneal dose of zymosan (40 mg/kg). Peritoneal exudate was collected 24 h later for the evaluation of leukocyte migration. Doses of the fucan of Spatoglossum schröederi at 20 and 10 mg/kg reduced peritoneal cellular migration and were selected to perform ZIGI experiments. In the ZIGI model, treatment was administered 1 h before and 6 h after the zymosan inoculation (500 mg/kg). Treatments and challenges were administered via intravenous and intraperitoneal routes, respectively. Systemic toxicity was assessed 6 h after inoculation, based on three clinical signs (bristly hair, prostration, and diarrhea). The peritoneal exudate was collected to assess cellular migration and IL-6 levels, while blood samples were collected to determine IL-6, ALT, and AST levels. Liver tissue was collected for histopathological analysis. In another experimental series, weight loss was evaluated for 15 days after zymosan inoculation and fucan treatment. The fucan treatment did not present any effect on ZIGI systemic toxicity; however, a fucan dose of 20 mg/kg was capable of reducing the weight loss in treated mice. The treatment with both doses also reduced the cellular migration and reduced IL-6 levels in peritoneal exudate and serum in doses of 20 and 10 mg/kg, respectively. They also presented a protective effect in the liver, with a reduction in hepatic transaminase levels in both doses of treatment and attenuated histological damage in the liver at a dose of 10 mg/kg. Fucan from S. schröederi presented a promising pharmacological activity upon the murine model of ZIGI, with potential anti-inflammatory and hepatic protective effects, and should be the target of profound and elucidative studies.

Case Study of Ozone Bagging Adjuvant Therapy in Wagner II and III Diabetic Foot Ulcers on Wound Healing Process: Three Patients Recovered Completely

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer is a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus in the form of ulceration with or without infection. Diabetic foot ulcers that are not handled properly can cause damage to the foot that requires amputation. Wound care techniques for treating diabetic foot ulcers are starting to develop, one of which is ozone bagging therapy. This ozone bagging therapy in diabetic foot ulcers is reported to be useful as an anti-microbial effect, increasing glycemic control, increasing insulin sensitivity, preventing oxidative stress, increasing fibroblast proliferation, and increasing the release of growth factors. This case study will report 3 patients with Wagner II and III-foot ulcers who healed completely within 28 days using ozone bagging treatment as an adjuvant. Methods: 3 patients with diabetic foot ulcers Wagner II and III received ozone bagging therapy every 4 days for 7 sessions (a total of 28 days) as an additional therapy besides treating moist gauze using NaCl. This study used a Medical Ozone Generator. The dose of ozone used with medical oxygen is 1 lpm, flow 0.6, in the first session "high dose" with an output dose of 80-100 mg/l and in the 2nd-7th session with a low dose (25-35 mg/l). Macroscopic assessment of the wound using the Wagner scale and the progress of each treatment session is documented in photographs. Results: On macroscopic measurements, the process of wound healing leading to wound closure was better in the treatment group and was taken as a case for 3 patients who recovered completely. It resulted in 3 patients who recovered completely with a measurement of the Meggitt-Wagner scale of 0.26. Conclusion: For these recovered patients, there was a decrease in VEGF, TGF-β, and PDGF levels. The VEGF, TGF-β, and PDGF levels tested were VEGF, TGF-β, and PDGF levels in wound exudate by comparing them on the 3rd day. 1st and 12th day. Supported by macroscopic data showing that the wound healing process was better in the group that received ozone bagging therapy as an adjuvant. From this study it was found that the trend of decreasing levels of VEGF, TGF-β, and PDGF in wound exudate occurred because the inflammatory and proliferative processes in the treatment group lasted more faster than the control group. Keywords: ozone bagging therapy, diabetic ulcers, wound exudate, growth factors, VEGF, TGF-β, and PDGF, Meggitt-Wagner scale.

Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effect of 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives.

Inflammation is a physiological event that protects the organism against different factors that lead to loss of tissue homeostasis. Dihydropyridine (DHP) derivatives are heterocyclic compounds known for their different biological activities, including anti-inflammatory activities. To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of 1,4-dihydropyridine (1,4-DHP) derivatives using anti-inflammatory models in vitro, in RAW264.7 cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and in vivo using the acute lung injury (ALI) model in mice. Fifteen compounds derived from 1,4-DHP were tested in RAW264.7 cells for their cytotoxic effect and cell viability. Thereafter, only the six compounds that showed the highest cell viability were tested for the production or inhibition of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6). The best compound (compound 4) was tested for its anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo, showing inhibition of nitric oxide (NO), pro-inflammatory cytokines, increased phagocytic activity, and an increase in IL-10 in vitro. In in vivo tests, compound 4 also reduces the levels of NO, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, leukocyte migration, and exudation, as well as reducing the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and IL-6 and preventing the loss in the lung architecture. This compound showed important anti-inflammatory activity, with a significant ability to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and increase the phagocytic activity of macrophages and anti-inflammatory mediator secretion (IL-10). These findings led us to hypothesize that this compound can repolarize the macrophage response to an anti-inflammatory profile (M2). Moreover, it was also able to maintain its anti-inflammatory activity in vivo experiments.

The transcription factor SPL13 mediates strigolactone suppression of shoot branching by inhibiting cytokinin synthesis in Solanum lycopersicum.

Plant architecture imposes a large impact on crop yield. IDEAL PLANT ARCHITECTURE 1 (IPA1), which encodes a SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE (SPL) transcription factor, is a target of molecular design for improving grain yield. However, the roles of SPL transcription factors in regulating tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plant architecture are unclear. Here, we show that the expression of SPL13 is down-regulated in the lateral buds of strigolactone (SL)-deficient ccd mutants and is induced by GR24 (a synthetic analog of SL). Knockout of SPL13 by CRISPR/Cas9 resulted in higher levels of cytokinins (CKs) and transcripts of the CK synthesis gene ISOPENTENYL TRANSFERASES 1 (IPT1) in the stem nodes, and more growth of lateral buds. GR24 suppresses CK synthesis and lateral bud growth in ccd mutants, but is not effective in spl13 mutants. On the other hand, silencing of the IPT1 gene inhibited bud growth of spl13 mutants. Interestingly, SL levels in root extracts and exudates are significantly increased in spl13 mutants. Molecular studies indicated that SPL13 directly represses the transcription of IPT1 and the SL synthesis genes CAROTENOID CLEAVAGE DIOXYGENASE 7 (CCD7) and MORE AXILLARY GROWTH 1 (MAX1). The results demonstrate that SPL13 acts downstream of SL to suppress lateral bud growth by inhibiting CK synthesis in tomato. Tuning the expression of SPL13 is a potential approach for decreasing the number of lateral shoots in tomato.