Severe Ulceration Research Articles

Reliability of cushion construction for a low-cost pressure-reducing wheelchair cushion for less-resourced settings

Purpose: In less-resourced settings, 80% of people with spinal cord injuries die from pressure ulcer complications within two years. Appropriately constructed wheelchair cushions are effective in reducing incidence and severity of pressure ulcers. The Tuball is an inexpensive wheelchair cushion designed for users in less-resourced settings, which can be reproduced by local clinicians using locally sourced materials. This paper aimed to assess whether different individuals with limited knowledge of cushion construction could reliably construct the Tuball cushion. Materials and Methods: A convenience sample of eleven occupational therapy students were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Six participants constructed a Tuball and completed a subjective workload assessment. Five different participants sat on each cushion while pressure distributions were mapped. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for reliability of construction of each cushion using data from a range of pressure indices: dispersion index (primary outcome), peak pressure index, contact area, and seat pressure index (secondary outcomes) across all six cushions. Results and Conclusions: The ICC across all cushions was 0.745 (95% CI 0.103–0.970) for dispersion index. ICCs across cushions for secondary outcomes ranged from 0.879 to 0.951. Good-moderate reliability was found for the reliability in cushion construction as measured by the dispersion index. Excellent reliability in cushion construction was found as measured by peak pressure index, contact area, and seat pressure index. Data indicates individuals can reliably construct the Tuball given equivalent materials and instructions.

Factors associated with severity and anatomical distribution of diabetic foot ulcer in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study.

Diabetic foot ulcers are characterized by disturbances in the epidermis and/or a portion of the dermis in patients with the disease. With over a million amputations performed annually, it has also emerged as one of the primary causes of lower limb amputation globally. To better understand the severity and anatomical distribution of ulcerated areas in patients with type II diabetes mellitus, this study aimed to identify the factors associated with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at M Abdur Rahim Medical College Hospital in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, from July to September 2023. The study population was selected using a purposive sampling technique based on the patients' availability during their usual and regular treatment at MARMCH. Using a Bangla questionnaire data was obtained to evaluate the DFUs, in addition to measuring blood pressure and assessing the affected area's neurological function. The severity of the ulcer is calculated by using the Wagner grading system. Data was analyzed by using STATS v15 and chi-square was applied. A total of 113 DFU patients took part in this study. The mean age in years was 56 ± 12 (SD + mean) and the male proportion was greater (61.9%). Most of them (93.91%) were negligent about foot care and suffered from severe DFU (86.37%). The majority of respondents (57.94%) had a right foot ulcer, of which 94.50% had severe ulcers. Almost all ulcers were severe (86.14%) and measured <5 cm in diameter (69.71%). The results highlight the tremendous burden of DFUs, which can have serious consequences and substantial mental and economic effects on patients' healthcare systems.

Association between sarcopenia and the foot-ankle function in type 2 diabetic foot ulcer

BackgroundThe diabetic foot (DF) ulcer is the severe complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Sarcopenia is characterized as the loss of muscle mass and strength, resulting in the increased risk of fracture and physical disability. Sarcopenia may affect the foot-ankle function in DF ulcer patients, compromise the quality of life.ObjectiveThe aim was to clarify the effect of sarcopenia on foot-ankle function in patients with DF ulcer.MethodsIn total of 108 T2DM patients with DF ulcer were enrolled. Based on the examination of muscle mass by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and grip strength and 5x sit-to-stand test, the DF patients were divided into sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups. The severity of DF ulcer was evaluated by Wagner classification. The foot-ankle function was evaluated by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score.ResultsDF patients with sarcopenia showed advanced age, lower BMI, longer duration of T2DM, and more severe Wagner classification, reduced appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), grip strength, transcutaneous oxygenpressure (TcPO2) and prolonged time of 5X sit-to-stand test. The stratified comparison analysis indicated that severity of sarcopenia and DF ulcer, reduced TcPO2, and grip strength were aggravated with the impaired foot-ankle function (P < 0.05). Multivariate Logistic analysis showed that age, TcPO2, and severe sarcopenia were risk factors deteriorating the foot-ankle function.ConclusionThe sarcopenia is a key risk factor of decreasing foot-ankle function in patients with DF ulcer. Thus, the prevention of muscle mass and strength loss could be considered as part of comprehensive therapy for DF ulcer.

Dupilumab-Associated Bilateral Conjunctival Papillomas and Corneal Perforation.

We report a unique case of significant human papillomavirus-associated conjunctival papillomas and severe corneal ulceration leading to corneal perforation in a patient treated with dupilumab for atopic dermatitis. This study is a case report and literature review of severe corneal side effects related to dupilumab. A 27-year-old man with severe atopic dermatitis and no ocular history was administered dupilumab 300 mg via subcutaneous injections every 2 weeks with an excellent response. Following the onset of treatment, the patient developed conjunctivitis, conjunctival papillomas, and dry eyes, which were initially treated with lubricating eye drops. Fourteen months after commencing dupilumab, he had a rapid onset of painful visual loss in the OD accompanied by severe bilateral conjunctival injection and was found to have a central corneal ulcer and diffuse papillomas on the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva. Despite management with intravenous methylprednisolone and topical dexamethasone, the patient's corneal ulcer progressed to a corneal melt, resulting in perforation 2 months after diagnosis, which necessitated a corneal graft. We present the third reported case of dupilumab-associated corneal perforation and the first case to our knowledge of dupilumab-associated conjunctival papillomas. As dupilumab usage increases, awareness of these potential complications among prescribers is essential.

Role of traditional healers in the management of microbial keratitis in eastern Nepal.

Microbial Keratitis (MK) is a leading cause of corneal blindness due to infection and its consequences, with a higher incidence in resource-limited nations. Hospital-based patient records from different parts of Nepal suggest patients often use traditional eye medicine to treat MK. Traditional healers (TH) within the community are often the first point of care for MK management. Little is known of their practice, perceptions, and knowledge around MK management. We aimed to understand the role of traditional healers in the management of MK in south-eastern Nepal. A cross-sectional, mixed method, descriptive study was conducted in the Siraha district of Nepal. A total of 109 traditional healers consented to participate in a survey of knowledge, attitude, and practices. Some participants were also invited to participate in in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Interviews and focus groups were conducted and recorded in the Maithili language by a native speaking interviewer and transcribed into English. Descriptive analysis was performed for the survey. Data saturation was considered the endpoint for qualitative data collection, and a thematic was analysis applied. Traditional healers believe that infection of the eye can be caused by trauma, conjunctivitis, or evil spirits. They were unclear about differentiating MK from other eye conditions. They provided various types of treatment. Some were confident that they could treat severe ulcers that had not responded to medical therapy, while others thought treating larger diameter ulcers would be difficult. Although there were mixed responses in referring patients with MK, the majority of TH were willing to refer. In a weak health system, traditional healers may help address barriers to healthcare access and reduce delays to definitive care, upon integration into the formal health system and referral pathway.

Protective Effects of Some Graded Iranian Honey Samples Against Cold Water Immersion‐Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rats

ABSTRACTHoney has a rich history of treating gastrointestinal diseases due to its diverse bioactive compounds. This study evaluated the protective effects of select Iranian honeys against cold water immersion stress (CWIS)‐induced ulcers in rats. Forty male Wistar rats (250–280 g) were randomly assigned to eight groups (n = 5): control, CWIS, and groups treated with strong (eucalyptus, Annaab, and Jangale) and weak honeys (Chand Giah, Sumaq, Gaz) + CWIS. Honey selection was based on antioxidant capacity, phenolic content, and protein concentration. Rats received 20% honey in water (1 mL/kg) orally twice daily for 14 days; controls received water. After a 24‐h fast, rats underwent 3‐h CWIS to induce ulcers. Serum samples were analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), thiol groups, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), and interleukin 6 (IL‐6) levels. Stomachs were assessed for ulcer severity (gastric ulcer index), gastric juice volume, and histopathological changes. Honey types were categorized as strong (eucalyptus, Annaab, and Jangale) or weak (Chand Giah, Sumaq, and Gaz) based on total phenolic content, antioxidant effects (FRAP and DPPH), and protein levels. Ulcer group showed significant increases in MDA (64%) and TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels (98.5% and 111.6%), and decreases in ferric reducing antioxidant power and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1 picrylhydrazyl (FRAP, DPPH, and thiol levels [26%, 14.39%, and 26%]) compared to controls. Strong honey groups exhibited 50% lower gastric ulcer index compared to weak honey groups. This study showed that strong honeys, due to their higher phenolic, total protein, and antioxidant content, offer greater protection against gastric damage and oxidative stress compared to weaker honeys. These results highlight the importance of bioactive compounds in honey's therapeutic properties. Therefore, high‐quality honeys with higher phenolic content can be considered as therapeutic supplements for gastrointestinal disorders, especially those caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

Sporotrichosis Presenting as a Severe Ulcer in an Elderly Diabetic Man.

Sporotrichosis Presenting as a Severe Ulcer in an Elderly Diabetic Man.

The relationship between dietary phytochemical index and novel anthropometric indices and the severity of diabetic foot ulcers in adults with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundResearch on the relationship between dietary phytochemical intake and the anthropometric indices as well as the diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) remains inconsistent. We aimed to investigate the associations of dietary phytochemical index (DPI) with the novel anthropometric indices and the severity of DFUs.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 339 adults with type 2 diabetes. Dietary intake was assessed using three 24-hour dietary recalls. To quantify the phytochemical content of the diet, the DPI estimation was done through an equation proposed by McCarty. The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) criteria and Wagner classification system were applied to assess DFUs. New anthropometric indices including a body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI) and abdominal volume index (AVI) were calculated based on formulas. We employed analysis of variance (ANOVA), analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and logistic regression to explore associations between DPI and the anthropometric indices and DFU variables.ResultsOur results revealed no significant association between DPI and the foot ulcer indices, following adjusting for the possible covariates. Furthermore, we also examined the relationship between diabetic neuropathy, as measured by monofilament score, and the DPI. Similarly, we did not find any substantial relationship between the DPI and monofilament score (OR: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.66–2.09; Ptrend = 0.56), as well as biochemical indices. Our analysis did not reveal any significant associations between the DPI and ABSI (OR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.35–1.38; Ptrend = 0.30), BRI (OR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.33–1.95; Ptrend = 0.59), and AVI (OR: 1.99; 95% CI: 0.92–4.33; Ptrend = 0.08).ConclusionsOur study revealed no significant links between the DPI and foot ulcer indices, neuropathy measures, and anthropometric indices. These findings imply that factors beyond dietary phytochemical intake may exert greater influence on the development of foot ulcers in diabetes.

Dogs receiving cyclooxygenase-2-sparing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or nonphysiologic steroids are at risk of severe gastrointestinal ulceration.

To report the incidence and characteristics of gastrointestinal ulceration lesions in dogs receiving an NSAID and/or corticosteroid. 33 dogs. Medical records of dogs with gastrointestinal ulceration receiving NSAIDs and/or corticosteroids within 30 days of diagnosis between January 2012 and July 2022 at multiple referral institutions were reviewed. Diagnosis was confirmed via endoscopy, surgery, or necropsy. Clinical data were collected from the medical record, including the dose and reason for administration of NSAIDs or steroids. Dogs received a single NSAID (n = 22, most commonly carprofen [9], meloxicam [4], and deracoxib [3]), 2 NSAIDs (5), a single steroid (5: prednisolone [2], prednisone [2], or dexamethasone SP [1]), or an NSAID and steroid (1). Eleven dogs receiving a single cyclooxygenase (COX)-2-sparing NSAID at an appropriate dose had ulcerations. All dogs receiving 2 NSAIDs concurrently experienced full-thickness perforation (5 of 5). The most common ulcer locations were duodenum (n = 18) and pylorus (11). Abdominal ultrasound correctly identified the site of ulceration in 5 of 24 dogs. Dogs receiving COX-2 sparing NSAIDs at recommended doses are at risk of severe GI ulceration. Carprofen was the most common NSAID resulting in ulceration; however, it is one of the most prescribed NSAIDs. Adding another NSAID and steroid could increase this risk. Careful monitoring is crucial for dogs on NSAIDs, regardless of duration.

Facial edema and necrotic ulcers: a cutaneous reaction to liraglutide.

Due to rising obesity rates, new drugs like liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, are increasingly used for weight loss. While liraglutide-related skin reactions are rare, this case report describes a 44-year-old male with severe facial edema and necrotic ulcers following liraglutide administration. Despite having taken the drug five years earlier without issue, the patient developed symptoms after receiving two doses. A skin biopsy revealed necrosis and inflammation, and the condition was successfully treated with steroids. The report underscores the need to consider cutaneous adverse effects in patients using liraglutide.

Fermented Soymilk with Probiotic Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium Strains Ameliorates Dextran-Sulfate-Sodium-Induced Colitis in Rats.

Background: Current treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are relatively futile and the extended use of drugs may reduce effectiveness. Several probiotic strains have shown promise in relieving/treating IBD symptoms. Objectives: The current study investigated the impact of fermented soymilk with a mixture of probiotic starter cultures containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus, L. casei, L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, and B. animalis subsp. lactis in rats with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis compared to control. Methods: Rats were randomly assigned to five groups (5 rats/group; n = 25): G1: negative normal control; G2: positive control (DSS); G3: DSS with sulfasalazine (DSS-Z); G4: DSS with soymilk (DSS-SM), and G5: DSS with fermented soymilk (DSS-FSM). Parameters monitored included the following: the disease activity index (DAI), macroscopic and histological assessments of colitis, and a fecal microbial analysis performed to assess the severity of inflammation and ulceration. Results: The DSS-FSM rats group exhibited lower DAI scores (p < 0.05) than other treated groups during the induction period. A macroscopical examination revealed no ulceration or swelling in the intestinal mucosa of rats in the DSS-FSM-treated group, resembling the findings in the negative control group. In the positive control (DSS group), the colon tissue showed increased inflammation (p < 0.05), whereas those in the DSS-SM- and DSS-FSM-treated rats groups did not show significant macroscopic scores of colitis. The positive DSS control and DSS-Z groups had crypt erosion and ulceration areas, severe crypt damage, and epithelial surface erosion, which were absent in the negative control and DSS-FSM groups. The counts of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. remained stable in both G1 and G5 over 4 weeks. The consumption of fermented soymilk with a mixture of probiotics could minimize the severity of DSS-induced colitis in rats. Conclusion, it was found that fermented soymilk containing Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium might be an effective vehicle for reducing the severity of DSS-induced colitis in rats.

Antioxidant anthocyanin synergistic immune enhancer nanopeptide C-I20 remarkably enhances the protective effect of largemouth bass against largemouth bass ranavirus

Largemouth bass ranavirus (LMBV) infection results in huge economic losses in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) industry. Nanopeptide C-I20 and anthocyanins have a positive effect on promoting immune responses and antioxidant mechanisms in several aquatic organisms, and are therefore used to inhibit LMBV infection. In this study, we developed an LMBV immersion challenge model using three different viral concentrations (1 × 104 copies/mL, 1 × 105 copies/mL, and 1 × 106 copies/mL) to infect largemouth bass, and LMBV-MCP mRNA expression was detected in infected fish. Following infection, the fish exhibited severe external ulceration, redness swelling, and darkening of the skin. Histopathological examination revealed significant necrosis and inflammation in muscle tissue, epithelial cell shedding in renal tubules, macrophage aggregation centers and cellular vacuolization in spleen and head kidney, and cellular hypertrophy in liver. To mitigate LMBV infection, we explored the protective effects of a combined treatment strategy involving C-I20 and anthocyanin. Overall, the combination of anthocyanin and C-I20 demonstrated the highest protective efficacy, significantly reducing viral loads in muscle, liver, spleen, and head kidney. Moreover, this treatment regimen enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (T-AOC, TSOD, GSH-Px, CAT) and modulated important immune genes (IL-1, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-10, Mx, and IgM) expression. In conclusion, the synergistic application of anthocyanin and C-I20 demonstrates significant efficacy in mitigating LMBV infection. This research introduces a novel and promising approach to managing infectious diseases in aquaculture settings.

Salvataje de amputación mediante la aplicación de células madre autólogas de médula ósea en isquemia crítica de miembro inferior: reporte de caso

Critical ischemia of the lower limbs can seriously impair the quality of life of patients due to the intense pain associated with it and the amputation that can result in those who are not candidates for revascularization. Therefore, it is worthwhile to search for therapies that provide a recovery option for this group of patients. We describe the case of a 71-year-old male patient with critical ischemia in the right lower limb, associated with severe ulceration and infection, with an indication for amputation, who was saved from this procedure by the intramuscular administration of autologous bone marrow stem cells. The intramuscular administration of autologous bone marrow stem cells could promote angiogenesis and the survival of amputation.

Multimodal Identification of Molecular Factors Linked to Severe Diabetic Foot Ulcers Using Artificial Intelligence.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a severe complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), which often lead to hospitalization and non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Diabetes prevalence estimates in South Texas exceed the national estimate and the number of diagnosed cases is higher among Hispanic adults compared to their non-Hispanic white counterparts. San Antonio, a predominantly Hispanic city, reports significantly higher annual rates of diabetic amputations compared to Texas. The late identification of severe foot ulcers minimizes the likelihood of reducing amputation risk. The aim of this study was to identify molecular factors related to the severity of DFUs by leveraging a multimodal approach. We first utilized electronic health records (EHRs) from two large demographic groups, encompassing thousands of patients, to identify blood tests such as cholesterol, blood sugar, and specific protein tests that are significantly associated with severe DFUs. Next, we translated the protein components from these blood tests into their ribonucleic acid (RNA) counterparts and analyzed them using public bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. Using these data, we applied a machine learning pipeline to uncover cell-type-specific and molecular factors associated with varying degrees of DFU severity. Our results showed that several blood test results, such as the Albumin/Creatinine Ratio (ACR) and cholesterol and coagulation tissue factor levels, correlated with DFU severity across key demographic groups. These tests exhibited varying degrees of significance based on demographic differences. Using bulk RNA-Sequenced (RNA-Seq) data, we found that apolipoprotein E (APOE) protein, a component of lipoproteins that are responsible for cholesterol transport and metabolism, is linked to DFU severity. Furthermore, the single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed a cluster of cells identified as keratinocytes that showed overexpression of APOE in severe DFU cases. Overall, this study demonstrates how integrating extensive EHRs data with single-cell transcriptomics can refine the search for molecular markers and identify cell-type-specific and molecular factors associated with DFU severity while considering key demographic differences.

Reconstruction of deep and perforating corneal defects in dogs-A review (Part II/III): Biomaterials and keratoprosthesis.

The surgical reconstruction of severe corneal ulcers is a common and crucial component of the clinical practice of veterinary ophthalmology. Numerous surgical techniques are used in dogs for corneal reconstruction, and these techniques may be categorized by the material used to repair the corneal lesion. The first part of the present review described procedures that utilize autogenous ocular tissues, homologous donor tissues, and heterologous donor tissues. In this second part of the review, the categories of biomaterials and keratoprosthetics will be summarized. Biomaterials that are reported for use in dogs include amniotic membrane, porcine urinary bladder acellular matrix, porcine small intestinal submucosa, acellular porcine corneal stroma, and other miscellaneous soft tissue and cartilage grafts (e.g., preserved equine renal capsule, autologous omentum, autologous buccal mucosa membrane, bovine pericardium, and homologous peritoneum). Descriptions of keratoprosthesis surgery in dogs are currently limited, but the use of artificial corneal transplants hold promise for dogs with severe, vision-compromising corneal disease that is not amenable to other reconstruction techniques. This review describes the results of experimental studies evaluating these graft materials in dogs, and it will summarize the findings and outcomes of the clinical articles published in each material category. Reporting inconsistencies and areas where additional research is required will be highlighted to help guide future studies in this area. A major aim of this review is to help identify potential subjects that could be evaluated in future investigations and that might lead to refinements in clinical practice.

Troxerutin effect on gastric ulcers induced by ketorolac in rats: Relation with oxidative stress

Gastric ulcers are an essential side effect associated with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Free radicals are one of the important mechanisms contributing to the development of gastric ulcers caused by NSAIDs. This prompted us to choose troxerutin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, especially with a lack of studies investigating the preventive effect of troxerutin on gastric ulcers. Twenty-nine rats were divided into five groups: A Vehicle group, a Keto group (30 mg/kg of ketorolac), and two troxerutin groups (150 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg of troxerutin, respectively). A Miso group was used as a reference with (100 μg/kg of misoprostol). Troxerutin and misoprostol were administered orally 1 h before ketorolac. The ulcer index was determined considering the numbers and severity of ulcerations. Gastric tissue inflammation was evaluation microscopically. Both thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels and catalase activity were measured as markers of oxidative stress in gastric tissue. Our data showed an improvement in ulcer indices with troxerutin and misoprostol compared with ketorolac, with improvement in gastric inflammation observed with misoprostol but not with troxerutin. These results were accompanied by a reduction in gastric oxidative stress induced by ketorolac with both troxerutin and misoprostol. This study highlights, for the first time, the antioxidant effect of troxerutin on gastric ulcers. This effect may contribute to the good prevention of ketorolac-induced gastric ulcers.

Phosphodiesterase4 inhibitors in dermatology : Role in the treatment of skin diseases

Chronic inflammatory skin diseases are of great social and medical importance and require effective drug therapy. Phosphodiesterase4 (PDE4) inhibitors represent apossible therapeutic option by regulating inflammatory processes. PDEs cause the release of proinflammatory cytokines by interfering with signaling pathways. The PDE4 inhibitors apremilast (treatment of psoriasis and Behçet's disease), roflumilast (treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and crisaborole (treatment of atopic dermatitis) are currently approved in Europe. Apremilast is used for second-line treatment of plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and has afavorable side effect profile. Topical PDE4 inhibitors are currently being researched and have not yet been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The topical PDE4 inhibitor crisaborole was approved by the EMA in 2020 as atopical treatment alternative to glucocorticoids and calcineurin inhibitors. Although the substance has shown good tolerability in studies and also alleviates the accompanying itching, it did not find its way onto the German market. BEHçET'S DISEASE: Apremilast is approved for the treatment of Behçet's disease in adults with refractory, severe oral ulcers. Case studies have also demonstrated the efficacy of systemic PDE4 inhibition in other skin diseases (including blistering autoimmune dermatoses, lichen planus, and acantholytic genodermatoses). The substances are also being researched and used to treat extracutaneous inflammatory diseases.

MR enterography radiologic ulcers in newly diagnosed ileal Crohn disease in children: frequency, inter-radiologist agreement, and clinical correlation

BackgroundRadiologic ulcers are increasingly recognized as an imaging finding of bowel wall active inflammation in Crohn disease (CD).ObjectiveTo determine the frequency of ulcers at MR enterography (MRE) in children with newly diagnosed ileal CD, assess agreement between radiologists, and evaluate if their presence correlates with other imaging and clinical features of intestinal active inflammation.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study included 108 consecutive pediatric patients (ages 6–18 years) with newly diagnosed ileal CD that underwent clinical MRE prior to treatment initiation between January 2021 and December 2022. MRE examinations were independently reviewed by three pediatric radiologists who indicated the presence vs. absence of ulcers, ulcer severity (categorical depth), and ulcer extent (categorical number of ulcers). Maximum bowel wall thickness and length of disease were measured and averaged across readers. Patient demographics and clinical inflammatory markers were documented from electronic health records. Inter-radiologist agreement was assessed using Fleiss’ kappa (k) statistics. Student’s t-test was used to compare continuous variables.ResultsMean patient age was 13.9 years (67 [62%] boys). Radiologic ulcers were recorded in 64/108 (59.3%) cases by reader 1, 70/108 (64.8%) cases by reader 2, and 49/108 (45.4%) cases by reader 3 (k = 0.36). Based on majority consensus, radiologic ulcers were present in 60/108 (55.6%) participants. Inter-radiologist agreement for ulcer severity was k = 0.23, while ulcer extent was k = 0.66. There were significant differences in C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, fecal calprotectin, albumin, maximum bowel wall thickness, and length of disease between patients without and with radiologic ulcers (P < 0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of MRE for detecting endoscopic ulcers were 66.7% (95% CI, 52.1–79.2%) and 69.2% (95% CI, 48.2–85.7%), respectively.ConclusionRadiologic ulcers are visible in children with newly diagnosed ileal CD, although inter-radiologist agreement is only fair. The presence of ulcers is associated with clinical laboratory inflammatory markers as well as other MRE findings of disease activity and is an additional imaging finding that can be used to evaluate intestinal inflammation.

Effect of autologous serum after amniotic membrane transplantation for persistent corneal ulcers.

To investigate the effect of adding autologous serum eye drops to the postoperative regime after amniotic membrane transplantation for severe persistent corneal ulcers. Forty eyes of 40 patients with persistent corneal ulcers were randomly assigned to artificial tears (sodium hyaluronate 0.2%, ATs group, n=20) or autologous serum eye drops (ASEDs, n=20) following treatment with amniotic membrane transplantation. Digital slit lamp images were acquired from all patients before and 30d post treatment. The area with fibrovascular tissue was calculated using Image J. Central corneal sensitivity was assessed by Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometry before and one month after treatment. Scar tissue transparency was assessed with a novel optical densitometry. Mean age of patients was 61.65±16.47y and 57.3±19.11y in the ATs group and ASEDs group, respectively. Twenty-two male and 18 female patients were included in the study. The improvement in visual acuity was significantly greater in the ASEDs group (0.14±0.04) than the ATs (0.08±0.04; P=0.00046). Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometry improved significantly after treatment with a similar rate between groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the area of postoperative fibrovascular tissue between the two groups (P=0.082). The success rate in the two groups was similar. The difference in densitometry between the ATs and ASEDs group was statistically significant (P=0.042) with greater reduction from baseline in the ASEDS group. Autologous serum eye drops can lead to better visual acuity, more stable results and improved densitometry and should be considered in the postoperative care following amniotic membrane transplantation.

Effects of aqueous seed extract of &lt;i&gt;Garcinia kola&lt;/i&gt; on spray paint-induced histological changes in the lungs of Wistar rats

The most common cause of lung diseases among people with spray paint-related occupations is hydrocarbon poisoning which has significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aqueous seed extract of Garcinia kola on spray paint-induced interstitial pneumonitis in the adult Wistar rats. Thirty adult Wistar rats weighing between 240 g and 270 g were divided into five groups of six rats each. Animals in group A were placed on feed and water only. Animals in group B were exposed to 100 ml of spray paintfumes via inhalation. Animals in group C received 500mg/kg body weight per day of Garcinia kola. Animals in group D were exposed to 100 ml of spray paint fumes via inhalation and received 250mg/kg body weight per day of Garcinia kola. Animals in group E were exposed to 100 ml of spray paint fumes via inhalation and received 500mg/kg body weight per day of Garcinia kola. The extract was administered for 30 consecutive days via an orogastric tube. Groups A, C, D and E revealed normal histoarchitecture of the lung; normal alveoli and normal interstitial space. There were observable histological variations in the lung tissues of Group B rats which include severe alveolar dilation, interstitial haemorrhage, interstitial infiltrates of inflammatory cells, severe vascular ulceration and congestion (evidence of interstitial pneumonitis). It is concluded that Garcinia kolahasan ameliorative effect on spray paint-induced histological changes in the lungs of Wistar rats.