Ulcer Score Research Articles

Phagocytic and oxidative burst activity of neutrophils in type 2 diabetic patients with foot ulcers

Introduction and Aim: Diabetic foot ulcers are common complications seen in diabetic patients. Treatment of this disabling foot sore remains a challenge to health care professionals. This study aimed at evaluating whether the neutrophils from type 2 diabetic patients with foot ulcers present an impairment of phagocytic index and impairment in respiratory burst. We also aimed at understanding whether the impairment in neutrophil phagocytic activity can be alleviated with short course of standard treatment regime for foot ulcers. Methodology: For this case-controled study, 43 participants with type 2 diabetes (18 with foot ulcers and 25 without foot ulcers) were prospectively recruited along with 18 healthy volunteers. Phagocytic activity of neutrophils and respiratory burst of neutrophils was assessed along with ESR, percentage neutrophil counts before and after 2 weeks of standard treatment for foot ulcers. Results: Neutrophils of type 2 diabetic patients (with and without foot ulcers ) showed lower levels of phagocytic index and lower percentage of respiratory burst on comparison with non-diabetic subjects. Furthermore, on receiving treatment for foot ulcers, a significant improvement in neutrophil phagocytic indices were observed, along with improvement in wound ulcer score. Conclusion: Phagocytic activity of the neutrophils is impaired in type 2 diabetics (with and without foot ulcers). Neutrophil phagocytic indices can be improved on glycemic control. Additionally, improvement in neutrophil phagocytic indices after short course treatment for foot ulcers can be useful markers to predict treatment efficacy and in prognosis of diabetic foot ulcers.

Ameliorative effects of Triphala on mucosal damage in rat model of ulcerative colitis

In Ayurvedic practice, Triphala is widely used in gastric problems including constipation, large intestinal inflammation and colitis. The present research was planned to assess the ameliorative effects of Triphala formulations in reducing the magnitude and severity of ulcerative colitis. Triphala formulations prepared by mixing three fruits, Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica) and Amlaki (Emblica officinalis) in different ratios i.e., 1:1:1 (Triphala equal) and 1:2:4 (Triphala unequal) as per classical references. Wistar albino rats were administered with two ml of acetic acid (4% v/v) in intra-colonic lumen for induction of colitis. The efficacy of Triphala was measured on various parameters namely, in vivo fluid absorption in tied-off colon, ulcer score and colonic mucosal parameters. The degree of alteration in colonic fluid transport was significantly reversed by Triphala equal, Triphala unequal and sulphasalzine as standard drug. Triphala formulations significantly attenuated the nitric oxide (NO), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde MDA) levels in mucosa of rat colon. Pre-treatment with Triphala unequal formulation attenuated the severity of the colonic macroscopic damage score, histologic injury and counteracted the depletion of glutathione and superoxide dismutase activity hence, reduced the oxidative stress in colonic mucosa. Triphala unequal formulation has better protective effects. Outcomes of the present study reveal the usefulness of Triphala formulations in attenuating the colonic inflammation in experimental-induced ulcerative colitis.

Psidium guajava leaf extract improves gastrointestinal functions in rats and rabbits: an implication for ulcer and diarrhoea management

Purpose Psidium guajava L. (Family, Myrtaceae) is reportedly used in ethnomedicine for the treatment of diarrhoea, inflammation, and gastroenteritis. Objective This study evaluated the gastrointestinal function of Psidium guajava leaf extract (PGLE) in rats and rabbits. Materials and methods Crude ethanolic PGLE was subjected to phytochemical and toxicity tests (acute and sub-acute). Standard analytical procedures were employed to evaluate the in vivo gastrointestinal motility, and gastroprotective effect of PGLE against aspirin-induced ulcers. Results In the phytochemical analysis, phenols were the highest (48.32 mg) followed by flavonoids (32.74 mg) and least in tannins (7.31 mg). The acute toxicity of PGLE was >6000 mg/kg. Administration of PGLE decreased significantly (p < 0.05) the body weight, while the liver biomarkers were not significantly altered (p > 0.05) when compared to the control. PGLE significantly increased extractible mucus weight and lowered gastric acid secretion in rats (p < 0.05). PGLE decreased significantly (p < 0.05) ulcer scores and indexes, and increased percentage ulcer inhibition in a dose-dependent manner compared to the negative and omeprazole-treated groups. PGLE dose-dependently inhibited basal amplitudes of contractions, and significantly inhibited acetylcholine-induced contractions, terminating them completely at higher doses. Conclusion PGLE may be a good anti-ulcer and anti-diarrhoeal agent, raising the prospect of novel drug development for such applications.

Protective potential of ethylacetate extract of Abrus precatorius (Linn) seeds against HCl/EtOH-induced gastric ulcer via pro-inflammatory regulation: In vivo and in silico study

BackgroundGastric ulcer is the most common gastrointestinal disorder of the stomach which has become global health challenge. Management with natural therapeutic agents such as Abrus precatorius seed extract through regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression would provide relief to patients with ulcer. However, there are several reports on pharmacological efficacy of A. precatorius seed. HypothesisUp-regulation of pro-inflammatory genes and elevation of the inflammatory cytokines are significant mechanism of ulcer pathogenesis. This work sought to investigate the anti-ulcerative efficacy of ethylacetate extract of Abrus precatorius seed in hydrochloric acid/Ethanol (HCl/EtOH)-induced ulcerative rats via regulation of inflammatory genes. MethodsExperimental animals were administered 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w of EEAPS, diclofenac and cimetidine (50 mg/kg b.w) for period of 8 days. One hour after the last administration, EtOH/HCl was administered orally to induce gastric injury. Stomach ulceration score, histological changes and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression were evaluated using standard procedures. The bioactive compounds present in EEAPS were identified using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) followed by molecular docking against cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nuclear factor kappa (NF-KB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) proteins. ResultsExposure of rats to EtOH/HCl significantly (P < 0.05) elevates stomach ulceration scores and up-regulation of COX-2, INOS, IL-1β, NF-kb and TNF-α mRNA expression compared to normal control rats. The alterations were reversed in animals pre-treated with EEAPS and standard drugs, 200 mg/kg b. w of EEAPS showed the highest ameliorative efficacy. HPLC analysis of EEAPS revealed the presence of 5 compounds which showed varying degrees of binding affinities when docked against target proteins. Apigenin showed the highest binding affinity (-9.6 kcal/mol) against iNOS. The results of the in silico pharmacokinetic and drug likeness properties of the compounds reveals that, these compounds are potential drug candidates. ConclusionAbrus precatorius seed might be a source of new drugs and natural remedy against gastric injury through inhibition of inflammatory reactions.

Research and Nursing Experience of Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor Gel Promoting Oral Mucosal Erosion Lesion Healing

Erosion is a primary clinical manifestation of oral mucosal lesions. Contact between food and the mucosal surface during chewing can easily cause oral mucosal infection and adversely affect the daily lives of patients. Conventional clinical treatment cannot overcome the problems of oral mucosal erosion. This study aimed to analyze the application effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) gel on oral mucosal erosion lesions. The subjects of this study were 120 patients with oral mucosal erosion lesions, who were divided, according to random number table method, into a contrast group and rhEGF group with 60 cases in each. The patients in the contrast group were treated with ethacridine lactate, and the rhEGF group patients were treated with rhEGF gel. Patients in both groups received corresponding nursing measures. Compared with the contrast group, the rhEGF group had a lower visual analog scale score, Reticulation/keratosis, erythema, and ulceration score, and inflammatory cytokine levels, as well as a higher total effective rate and faster patient recovery, indicating that the rhEGF gel had significant efficacy and is worthy of promotion.

ANTIULCER ACTIVITY OF HYDROALCOHOLIC SEED EXTRACT OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LAM. AND SYZYGIUM CUMINI (L.) SKEELS IN PYLORUS LIGATION INDUCED AND ETHANOL INDUCED GASTRIC ULCER IN RATS

The aim of present investigation is to evaluate antiulcer activity of the hydroalcoholic seed extract of Moringa oleifera Lam. and Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels in Pylorus ligation induced and Ethanol induced Gastric ulcer in rats. The dose dependent anti-scretory and antiulcer effect of HAEMOS and HAESCS has been observed in pylorus ligation model which was evident by significant decrease in volume of gastric juice and ulcer score and increase in pH of gastric juice. In ethanol induced ulcer model, HAEMOS and HAESCS has exhibited significant decrease in ulcerogenic effect as compared to control group. The results showed that the results of HAEMOS are more than HAESCS in both the models.

Phyllanthus reticulatus Prevents Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer via Downregulation of IL-8 and TNF-α Levels.

The current study aimed to determine the protective effect of P. reticulatus on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer. For this purpose, thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups. The first group served as normal control, while, in other five groups, absolute ethanol was used to induce gastric ulcer. Group II served as a diseased group, while groups III, IV, and V were treated with methanol extract, ethyl acetate fraction, and n-hexane fraction, respectively, in a dose of 400 mg/kg bodyweight. Group VI was given omeprazole in a dose 20 mg/kg bodyweight. The stomachs were removed, ulcer score was evaluated, and histopathological examination of gastric lumen was conducted. Total acidity and pH values were determined in gastric juice. TNF-α and IL-8 mRNA expressions levels were determined using the reverse transcription real-time PCR method. The data indicated that P. reticulatus protected against gastric ulcer, which was evident by attenuation of ulcer score. The pretreatment with P. reticulatus raised the gastric pH and improved all evaluated histopathological parameters such as ulcer score, erosion score, hemorrhage score, fibrinoid necrosis score, inflammatory infiltrate score, and edema score. P. reticulatus significantly reduced mRNA expression levels of TNF-α and IL-8. In conclusion, P. reticulatus possess antiulcer property which might be attributed to downregulation of TNF-α and IL-8 expression levels.

Anti-Ulcerogenic and Cytoprotective Effects of Saharian (Sidr) Honey from Algeria.

This study aimed at investigating the gastro-protective effects of Algerian Sahara (Sidr) honey from Apis mellifera intermissa against HCl/Ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds were determined. Then, three groups of rats (control, HCl/ Ethanol-induced ulcer, and orally administered honey) were used for the determination of gastro-protective effect of Sidr honey. Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and DPPH activity of the honey sample were determined as 47.35±3.35 mg GAE/ 100 g, 2.13±0.17 mg QE/ 100 g, and 229.24±0.02 mg/mL, respectively. Oral pretreatment of rats with honey (1.2 g/Kg body weight orally at an interval of 2 days) protected gastric mucosa against HCl/Ethanol-induced damage by decreasing ulcer score, the volume and acidity of gastric juice and increasing pH. These results were confirmed by the histological assessment, which demonstrated a significant gastro-protective activity of Saharian (Sidr) honey against HCl/Ethanol-induced stomach ulcer. Plasma tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-6 and PGE2 were also measured. Sahara honey significantly decreased the plasma TNF-α, PGE2, and IL-6 concentrations.

Gastroprotective effect of cirsilineol against hydrochloric acid/ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats.

This study was designed to evaluate the gastroprotective activity of cirsilineol in hydrochloric acid (HCl)/ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model. Cirsilineol was administered at the doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg in HCl/ethanol-induced rats. The gastroprotective ability was verified by determining the ulcer score, total acidity, hemoglobin, inflammatory cytokines, lipid peroxides, and enzymatic antioxidants superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in gastric tissue and serum biochemical analysis. The results showed a favorable increase in the hemoglobin level, antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT), restored electrochemical balance (carbon dioxide & anion gap) while a noticeable decrease in ulcer index, total acidity, lipid peroxides, inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β], IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha) in rats treated with the cirsilineol. The serum biochemical analysis on liver markers (alkaline phosphatases, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase), kidney markers (urea, creatinine, albumin, globulin, total protein), and lipid profile (triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol) were attenuated by cirsilineol treatment in rats. Histopathology showed enhanced gastric protection and preserved the integrity of gastric mucosa upon cirsilineol administration. These results ultimately suggest that cirsilineol has gastroprotective effects that prevent the development of gastric ulcer.

Effect of Traditional Herbal Formulation on Experimental Models of Ulcerative Colitis

Aims: Evaluation of the effectiveness of herbal formulation consisting of Morinda citrifolia L, Artemisia annua L, Glycyrrhiza glabra L and Ocimum basilicum L, in treating ulcerative colitis. Objectives: Assessment of the effect of herbal formulation on the indomethacin-induced ulcerative colitis based on serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, tissue myloperoxidase (MPO) activity and colonic glutathione (GSH) content and macroscopic features. Determination of tissue ulcer scores, tissue weight and tissue histopathological changes before and after treatment with herbal formulation in disease-induced model. Methods: Herbal formulation from ancient literature was selected and evaluated for its effectiveness against indomethacin-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Mesalamine was used as a standard drug to compare the effect of herbal formulation on ulcerative colitis. Quantification of serum LDH levels, tissue MPO activity, colonic GSH levels, and the histopathological features of inflammatory and recovered cells were used to establish the efficacy of the formulation. Results: Formulation treatment showed an appreciable increase in the serum GSH levels, and a decrease in the tissue MPO activity and serum LDH levels. The results of ulcer score analysis and tissue weight analysis of the formulation treated group were similar to the mesalamine treated group. Histopathological studies revealed a decrease in oedema and reduced inflammation followed by the formulation treatment. Conclusion: The study established the efficacy of polyherbal formulation in the treatment of ulcerative colitis following sub-chronic administration. This study concludes that the polyherbal formulation is effective as mesalamine in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Evaluation of the antiulcerogenic activity of hydromethanol extracts of Solanum incanum L. (Solanaceae) leaves and roots in mice; single and repeated dose study

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the antiulcer activity of hydromethanol extracts of Solanum incanum L. (Solanaceae) leaves and roots in mice. MethodsThe antiulcerogenic activity of the plant extracts were evaluated using Pylorus ligation and ethanol induced gastric ulcers in fasted mice. Data were analyzed using one way ANOVA, and P-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Result:Pylorus ligation-induced ulcerSingle dose and repeated daily dose administration of the leaf and root extracts for 10 days didn't significantly (P > 0.05) affect pH, total acidity and volume of gastric secretion. Single dose of both extracts significantly reduced ulcer score (P = 0.036) and ulcer index (leaf, P = 0.037; root, P = 0.041) at the dose of 400 mg/kg. Similarly, significant reduction in ulcer score was observed after repeated daily treatment with 200 mg/kg (P = 0.030) and 400 mg/kg (P = 0.005) of the leaf extract and 400 mg/kg (P = 0.005) of the root extract. In addition, repeated administration of 400 mg/kg of the leaf (P = 0.004) and root (P = 0.005) extracts significantly reduced ulcer index. Ethanol-induced ulcerSingle dose of both extracts significantly reduced ulcer score at the dose of 200 mg/kg (leaf, P = 0.017; root, P = 0.036) and 400 mg/kg (leaf, P = 0.001; root, P = 0.001). Similarly, 200 mg/kg (leaf, P = 0.002; root, P = 0.018) and 400 mg/kg (leaf, P = 0.001; root, P = 0.001) of the extracts significantly reduced ulcer index after single dose treatment. Repeated daily treatment with leaf and root extracts for ten days caused a significant (P = 0.037, 0.001 and 0.001 for 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg leaf extract; P = 0.026, 0.018 and 0.001 for 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg root extract, respectively) reduction in ulcer score. In addition, both extracts significantly (P = 0.041, 0.004 and 0.000 for 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg leaf extract; P = 0.038, 0.008 and 0.000 for 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg root extract, respectively) reduced ulcer index after 10 days of treatment. ConclusionThis study has revealed hydromethanol extracts of Solanum incanum leaves and roots have antiulcerogenic activity using in vivo models. The antiulcer activity of the plant is not related to acid anti-secretory action, suggesting the plant may have cytoprotective effect on the gastric mucosa.

Antiulcerogenic effect of Methanolic Root Extract of Berberis lycium Linn by Pylorus ligation and Ethanol induced Ulceration

Background: Gastric ulcer is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders, which affects approximately 5-10% of people during their life. In recent years, abundant work has been carried out on herbal medicine to clarify their potential efficacy in gastric ulcer prevention or management. The present study was carried out to evaluate the antiulcer activity of the methanolic root extract of Berberis lycium in albino rats.&#x0D; Method: The methanolic root extract of Berberis lycium was prepared by hot extraction method. Anti-ulcer activity was evaluated and method employed was pylorus ligation and ethanol induced in albino rats. Preliminary methanolic extract of Berberis lycium was subjected to the acute oral toxicity study according to the OECD guideline no. 425. Animals were divided into four groups of six animals each. The animals of Group I served as normal control (vehicle) which received distilled water. Group II and III received 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of methanolic root extract, respectively. In pylorus ligation induced ulcer model, various parameters were studied viz. gastric volume, pH, total acidity, free acidity, and ulcer index. Ulcer index and percentage inhibition of ulceration was determined for ethanol induced ulcer model. Group IV received Ranitidine at 50 mg/kg was used as the standard drug. Pretreatment of methanol root extract of Berberis lycium showed significant (P˂0.05) decrease in the gastric volume, total acidity and free acidity. However, pH of the gastric juice was significantly increased only at higher dose 500 mg/kg. It showed also significant (P˂0.05) decrease in number of ulcers and ulcer score index in pylorus ligation and ethanol induced ulceration models.&#x0D; Results: The methanol root extract of Berberis lycium showed a significant reduction in the total acidity, free acidity and acid volume. The efficacy of plant extract at high dose was comparable with the standard drug Ranitidine.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our study results support the ethnomedical use of root of Berberis lycium.&#x0D; Keywords: Antiulcer activity, Berberis lycium, Pylorus ligation, Ranitidine, Ulcer Index.

Straw as an Alternative to Grass Forage in Horses-Effects on Post-Prandial Metabolic Profile, Energy Intake, Behaviour and Gastric Ulceration.

Simple SummaryMany leisure horses have low energy requirements and obesity is common. Straw has a low energy content and could be a forage option for these horses. However, a previous study suggested that providing straw as the only forage was associated with an increased risk for gastric ulcers. This study evaluated replacing 50% of the daily forage allowance with a good hygienic quality wheat straw. Six horses were fed both the control diet (grass forage only, CON) and the straw diet (50:50 grass forage and straw, S). Each diet was fed for three weeks and all horses were evaluated on both diets. Diet did not affect the prevalence of gastric ulcers. Feed intake time was longer and daily energy intake lower on diet S, compared to CON. Plasma insulin levels were lower on diet S compared to CON, which could be beneficial for horses with overweight or insulin dysregulation. The results suggest that good hygienic wheat straw provided at 50% of the forage ration does not cause gastric ulcers, but may prolong feeding time and promote a metabolic profile more suitable for overweight horses. Including straw as part of the ration therefore may improve welfare for horses with low energy requirements.Straw’s low energy content means it is a roughage option for horses with low energy requirements. Previously, in a field study, straw was associated with an increased risk for gastric ulcers. This study evaluated the effect on gastric ulcers, metabolic profile and behaviour of replacing, in a forage-only ration, 50% of the daily allowance with wheat straw. Six equines were studied in a 2 × 21-day cross-over design. The control diet (CON: 100% grass forage) and the straw diet (S: 50% grass forage and 50% straw [DM basis]) were iso-energetic. Gastroscopy was performed prior to the study and on day 21 and blood samples were collected and behavioural observations were performed. Diet did not affect squamous or glandular gastric ulcer scores (p > 0.05). Feed intake time was longer (p < 0.05) plus energy intake and plasma insulin concentrations were lower on diet S compared to CON (p < 0.0001). Plasma serotonin concentrations tended to be higher on diet S compared to CON (p = 0.05). The results suggest that good hygienic quality wheat straw can be included for up to 50% of the diet without causing gastric ulcers and that it can extend feeding time and promote a metabolic profile more suitable for overweight horses.

134 Meta-analysis to Determine the Effects of Particle Size on Nursery and Finishing Pig’s Growth Performance and Stomach Morphology

Abstract A meta-analysis was conducted to determine grain particle size (PS) effects on pig growth performance and stomach morphology. Data from 29 trials (11 in the nursery and 18 in the finisher) published from 1986 to 2016 for a total of 140 observations were recorded in a database. The response variables were average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), gain-to-feed ratio (G:F), ulceration and keratinization scores. Tested predictors included the interactions between PS linear and quadratic effects, production phase, diet form, and main effects of grain type, ingredient inclusion, and mill type. Trial was included as a random effect. Data were analyzed with the lmer function from the lme4 package in R. Significant predictors (P &amp;lt; 0.05) and with improved model fit remained in the final model. Results indicated a significant interaction (P &amp;lt; 0.05) between diet form and quadratic PS for ADFI and G:F. Nursery and finishing pigs fed meal diets linearly reduced ADFI and improved G:F as PS reduced. Nursery pigs fed pelleted diets had reduced ADFI and improved G:F with PS reduced to 500–600µ, with increased ADFI and poorer G:F at lower PS. Finishing pigs fed pelleted diets had reduced ADFI and improved G:F with PS reduced to 500–600µ, with no further changes at lower PS. Regardless of diet form and production phase, ADG increased (quadratic, P &amp;lt; 0.05) as PS reduced until approximately 600µ and decreased at lower PS. There was no evidence of PS effect on ulceration score (P = 0.12). Keratinization score increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) as PS decreased. Reducing PS in meal diets linearly increased keratinization scores, reduced ADFI, and improved G:F. However, no further benefits in performance were observed at grain PS below 500–600µ in pelleted diets.

55 Equine gastric ulcers; a pilot study: associated biomarkers and polysaccharide supplementation as a solution

Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome affects roughly 90% of performance horses. The only reliable antemortem diagnostic method is endoscopy, which is an invasive process. The cornerstone of treatment is acid suppression, a cost-prohibitive option that is not viable for long-term use. The objectives of this study were to investigate the efficacy of a polysaccharide (PS) supplement on gastric ulcers in the squamous (SQ) and glandular (GL) regions of the equine stomach and identify associated serum and saliva biomarkers. It was hypothesized that severity of SQ and GL ulcers throughout the supplemental period would decrease and levels of serum and salivary proteins, as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC), would fluctuate with ulcer scores. To test this hypothesis, 8 mature geldings were randomly assigned to a treatment (TRT) or non-treatment (CTRL) group, then underwent ulcer induction using a modified Murray method: alternating 12- and 24-h feed deprivations for a total of 108hr. Following the induction, TRT horses’ feed was top-dressed with 1oz of PS supplement twice daily. Horses were fed 1.0% BW in Fescue hay ( Festuca pratensis ) and 0.25% BW in concentrates daily (Nutrena Triumph Fiber Plus, Cargill, Inc., Holmesville, OH) with ad libitum water access, as recommended by the NRC. Horses were housed in 3.05mx3.65m stalls and turned out into 0.809ha pastures (native grasses, fescue, clover, and annual rye; 4 horses per pasture) from 0600hrs-1800hrs and 1800hrs-0600hrs, respectively. The experiment was divided into 3 periods: pre- (Day 0), mid- (Day 28), and post-supplementation (Day 43). Per period, endoscopic images were captured and saliva and blood samples were collected. The effects of date and treatment were analyzed with a factorial ANOVA. All statistical calculations were performed usuing the software JMP. The severity of ulcer scores decreased in all horses over the 6-week time span ( P = 0.001), with no difference found between TRT and CTRL horses in the SQ or GL regions. It is possible that the body's innate healing capacity was adequate in this study, which may have masked the treatment effect of the PS supplement. There was a correlation found between salivary TAC (R 2 = 0.559; P = 0.005) and serum TAC (R 2 = 0.620; P = 0.002) and ulcer score, which may indicate that oxidative stress decreases as ulcers heal. The investigation of PS supplementation as a preventative measure in ulcerative and non-ulcerative horses under stress is warranted. Additionally, the exploration of other salivary and serum biomarkers to further develop a panel for preliminary screening of equine gastric ulcers should be pursued.

54 Evaluation of gastric health in cribbing horses fed a digestive support supplement

Cribbing is a stereotypic oral behavior whereby the horse places its incisors on a fixed object, arches its neck, pulls against the object, and emits an audible grunt. Cribbing behavior (CB) has been associated with gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction and gastric ulceration. This randomized crossover study tested the hypothesis that dietary inclusion of a commercially available equine GI support supplement (Legends Gastrocare, Cargill, Wayzata, MN) would alter the GI environment and gastric ulcer severity in normal and cribbing horses. Mature Quarter Horses with CB (n = 4) and sex-matched non-cribbing controls (NCB; n = 4) were randomly assigned to receive either a GI support supplement (TRT) or placebo for 21 d, followed by a 2-wk washout period. Treatment groups were then switched and horses were treated for an additional 21 d. Before and after each treatment period, gastric and fecal pH were measured, and gastric ulcer severity was evaluated via endoscopic examination using an established grading system for squamous (0–4) and glandular gastric ulceration (0–1). Horses were acclimated for 2 wk before the start of the study, and throughout the study were individually stalled 16 h/d and fed bermudagrass hay (1.2% BW, DM basis) and concentrate (0.5% BW) and turned out in pairs in paddocks 8 h/d. Data were analyzed by mixed-model ANOVA with treatment, cribbing status (CB or NCB) and period included as fixed effects, and horse as a random effect. Data are presented as means ± SD. Fecal pH (6.5 ± 0.1) and gastric pH (2.9 ± 0.5) were similar between CB and NCB horses and were unaffected by TRT. Squamous mucosa ulcer scores did not differ between CB and NCB, and were unaffected by TRT. However, within CB horses, squamous ulcer severity scores were greater (indicating more severe ulceration) ( P = 0.003) with TRT (3.9 ± 0.6) than placebo (1.4 ± 0.3). Based on this pilot study, administration of a commercial GI support supplement did not alter gastric or fecal pH in normal or CB horses. Ongoing serum cortisol, serum gastrin, and microbiome analyses may help to explain the differences in gastric ulceration severity noted in CB horses when receiving TRT versus placebo. Collectively, these findings add to the growing body of literature regarding GI environment and pathophysiology in horses exhibiting CB.

Phytochemical and Antiulcer potential of Ethanolic leaf extract of Heliotropium indicum Linn.

In the present study Phytochemical, Pharmacological studies were performed. Heliotropium indicum Linn. belongs to family Boraginaceae and commonly known as Leihenbi, Hatisur, devil weed. The leaves have been used as asthma, urticaria, amenorrhea, high blood pressure, fevers, ulcers, and cough etc. The present study includes ethanolic leaves extract of Heliotropium indicum Linn. were investigated for phytochemical screening. The leaves of Heliotropium indicum Linn. were collected from different part of Meghalaya and Assam and cut into small pieces and shade dried. The dried powdered leaves (100gm) were extracted in a Soxhlet apparatus by using different solvent by increasing polarity order. Phytochemical screening has been done by standard procedure and showed the presence of alkaloids, glycoside, carbohydrate, flavonoids, and saponins. Gastric ulcer is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders, which affects approximately 5-10% of people during their life. In recent years, abundant work has been carried out on herbal medicine to clarify their potential efficacy in gastric ulcer prevention or management. Here, the present study was carried out to investigate the antiulcer activity of ethanolic leaf extract of Heliotropium indicum Linn. in aspirin plus pylorus ligated ulceration in the albino rats. Two dose levels of the extracts i.e. 250 and 500mg/kg were selected for the further study. In Aspirin plus pylorus ligation induced ulcer model, various parameters were studied viz. gastric volume, pH, total acidity, free acidity, and ulcer index. Ranitidine at 50mg/kg was used as the standard drug. Pre-treatment of ethanol extract of Heliotropium indicum Linn. leaves showed a significant decrease in the gastric volume, total acidity, and free acidity. However, pH of the gastric juice was significantly increased only at a higher dose, 500 mg/kg. It showed also a significant decrease in a number of ulcers and ulcer score index in aspirin plus pylorus ligation induced ulceration models. The ethanol extract of Heliotropium indicum Linn. leaves possess significant antiulcer properties in a dose dependent manner. In conclusion, the antiulcer properties of the extract may be attributed to the presence of phytochemicals like flavonoids, alkaloids and tannins present in the plant extract with various biological activities. Present work justifies the traditional use of Heliotropium indicum Linn. in treatment of the diverse condition and also indicated its future importance as therapeutic substances.

Impact of gastric ulceration on weight gain in finisher pigs

Erosion of the non-glandular region of the pig stomach is a common non-infectious condition, caused by a combination of feed processing and intake factors. We examined the effects of a naturally occurring outbreak of erosion/ulceration in a modern pig farm system. Pigs were monitored from 3.5 to 22.5 weeks of age, including a 2-day period of reduced feed intake at 10 weeks of age, due to unintentional inclusion of an unpalatable high salt additive. Pelleted diets supplied to the farm consisted of standard wheat, plant protein and feed additive ingredients, averaging 610 µm particle size. At 22.5 weeks of age, all remaining study pigs (n = 901) were processed for processing, and the non-glandular stomach region visually scored for erosion/ulceration. The ulcer score for each study animal was correlated to its average daily weight gain, based on the age at weaning (days), age at processing (days), and carcass weight (kg). This correlation indicated a significant reduction in growth rate among growing pigs with severe stomach erosion/ulceration. The economic impact as calculated from the weights at processing, average daily feed intakes and 5-year averages of feed cost and carcass value indicated a significant reduction in likely market income derived from growing and finishing pigs with deeper stomach lesions.

The effects of Boswellia (Frankincense) gel and hydrocolloid dressing on healing of second- and third-degree pressure ulcers among hospitalized patients

BackgroundBed sores are among life-threatening factors in patients during hospital confinement. Thus, treating bed sores is one of the major responsibilities of nursing personnel. ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the effects of Frankincense gel and hydrocolloid dressing on healing of second- and third-degree pressure ulcers among hospitalized patients. MethodsThis clinical trial was conducted on 75 patients with second- and third-degree pressure ulcers in the hospital affiliated Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. After obtaining the participants’ informed consent forms, they were randomly divided into three groups. Accordingly, groups A, B, and C were treated by Frankincense (Boswellia corteri) gel and hydrocolloid dressing, placebo gel and hydrocolloid dressing, and hydrocolloid dressing alone, respectively for five weeks. The study data were collected via Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH), which was used to assess and compare pressure ulcers regarding size, tissue, and exudate. Additionally, blood samples were taken from the patients before and two weeks after the treatment in order to measure the level of Transforming Growth Factor (TGF). ResultsPairwise comparisons revealed a significant difference between different time points in respect to PUSH scores (p < 0.001). Additionally, a significant difference was found between Frankincense and the two other groups regarding the ulcer score (p < 0.014). However, no significant difference was observed among the three groups concerning the tissue, exudate, and PUSH scores. Moreover, TGF-β1 increased in the three study groups, but the differences were not statistically significant. TGF-β3 also increased in Frankincense, but not in the two other groups. ConclusionThe study results indicated that the ulcers were healing after five weeks and growth factors increased in the study groups. Furthermore, Frankincense is cheaper and more easily prepared compared to hydrocolloid and does not cause allergic reactions. Therefore, it can be utilized as an appropriate treatment for bed sores.

GASTROPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF EQUISETUM HYEMALE IN EXPERIMENTAL GASTRIC ULCER RAT MODELS

Equisetum hyemale is traditionally used for dyspepsia and stomach pain. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the gastroprotective activity of the aqueous ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of Equisetum hyemale in gastric ulcer rat models. Gastric ulcer models were induced by ethanol (5 mL/kg bw), acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) (200 mg/kg bw) and pylorus ligation separately. The pH, total acidity, ulcer scoring index and histopathological evaluation were performed. Oral administration of Equisetum hyemale extract (250 and 500 mg/kg bw) significantly reduced the development of gastric lesions in all gastric ulcer models. The pH, total acidity and ulcer scoring index also decreased significantly when compared with the Diseased control group. Histopathological studies are in good agreement with the biochemical findings. Equisetum hyemale might show its gastroprotective activity by decreasing oxidative damage, blockage of H2 receptors activation, increase prostaglandins secretion and formation of mucus layer in different gastric ulcer models. The findings of the present study validate the traditional use of Equisetum hyemale to treat stomach pain, however the determination of phytochemical compounds responsible for gastroprotective activity is required for further confirmation.