Polyvinylpyrrolidone-Coated Cubic Hollow Nanocages of PdPt3 and PdIr3 as Highly Efficient Self-Cascade Uricase/Peroxidase Mimics.

Uricase-catalyzed uric acid (UA) degradation has been applied for hyperuricemia therapy, but this medication is limited by H2O2 accumulation, which can cause oxidative stress of cells, resulting in many other health issues. Herein, we report a robust cubic hollow nanocage (HNC) system based on polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated PdPt3 and PdIr3 to serve as highly efficient self-cascade uricase/peroxidase mimics to achieve the desired dual catalysis for both UA degradation and H2O2 elimination. These HNCs have hollow cubic shape with average wall thickness of 1.5 nm, providing desired synergy to enhance catalyst's activity and stability. Density functional theory calculations suggest the PdIr3 HNC surface tend to promote OH*/O* desorption for better peroxidase-like catalysis, while the PdPt3 HNC surface accelerates the UA oxidation by facilitating O2-to-H2O2 conversion. The dual catalysis power demonstrated by these HNCs in cell studies suggests their great potential as a new type of nanozyme for treating hyperuricemia.

Curcumin-PVP improves the in vitro efficacy of ivermectin against resistant and susceptible Haemonchus contortus.

Ivermectin (IVM) resistance in parasitic nematodes such as Haemonchus contortus has spurred a search for substances that help to recover its efficacy. One potential agent is the natural product curcumin (CUR). In this study, CUR was combined with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (CUR/PVP) to improve its solubility and biological applicability. This study determined the effect of CUR preincubation on the effective concentration 50% (EC50) of IVM in three H. contortus isolates with different susceptibilities to IVM. The IVM EC50 was determined for three H. contortus isolates with different IVM susceptibilities using the larval migration inhibition (LMI) test. The three isolates were (i) PARAISO (IVM resistant), (ii) FMVZ-UADY (IVM susceptible), and (iii) CENID-SAI INIFAP (reference IVM susceptible). The L3 of each isolate were preincubated for 3 h with one of three concentrations of CUR (µg curcumin/mL): CONC-1 (3.67), CONC-2 (5.67), or CONC-3 (8.48). Corresponding controls were performed without CUR. The EC50 of IVM was determined for each isolate after they were exposed to the different CUR concentrations. The EC50 of IVM differed between the isolates PARAISO > FMVZ-UADY > CENID-SAI INIFAP (P < 0.05). The CUR preincubation at CONC-1 did not decrease the EC50 of IVM for any of the three isolates, suggesting a hormetic effect. By contrast, CUR preincubation at CONC-2 or CONC-3 decreased the IVM EC50 for the PARAISO isolate (P < 0.05) compared with the reference isolate and reduced the EC50 of IVM for the FMVZ-UADY and CENID-SAI INIFAP isolates below the EC50 for the CENID-SAI INIFAP isolate without CUR preincubation. In conclusion, preincubation of H. contortus L3 with CUR reduced the EC50 of IVM for field isolates classified as resistant and susceptible to IVM. The CUR preincubation reduced the IVM resistance factor in the different isolates tested.

AgNP-PVP-meglumine antimoniate nanocomposite reduces Leishmania amazonensis infection in macrophages.

BACKGROUND: Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania and presents different clinical manifestations. The adverse effects, immunosuppression and resistant strains associated with this disease necessitate the development of new drugs. Nanoparticles have shown potential as alternative antileishmanial drugs. We showed in a previous study the biosynthesis, characterization and ideal concentration of a nanocomposite that promoted leishmanicidal activity. In the present study, we conducted a specific analysis to show the mechanism of action of AgNP-PVP-MA (silver nanoparticle-polyvinylpyrrolidone-[meglumine antimoniate (Glucantime®)]) nanocomposite during Leishmania amazonensis infection in vitro. RESULTS: Through ultrastructural analysis, we observed significant alterations, such as the presence of small vesicles in the flagellar pocket and in the extracellular membrane, myelin-like structure formation in the Golgi complex and mitochondria, flagellum and plasma membrane rupture, and electrodense material deposition at the edges of the parasite nucleus in both evolutive forms. Furthermore, the Leishmania parasite infection index in macrophages decreased significantly after treatment, and nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species production levels were determined. Additionally, inflammatory, and pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production levels were evaluated. The IL-4, TNF-α and MIP-1α levels increased significantly, while the IL-17 A level decreased significantly after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, we demonstrate in this study that the AgNP-PVP-MA nanocomposite has leishmanial potential, and the mechanism of action was demonstrated for the first time, showing that this bioproduct seems to be a potential alternative treatment for leishmaniasis.

Prussian blue nanozyme-mediated nanoscavenger ameliorates acute pancreatitis via inhibiting TLRs/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Rationale: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a serious acute condition affecting the abdomen and shows high morbidity and mortality rates. Its global incidence has increased in recent years. Inflammation and oxidative stress are potential therapeutic targets for AP. This study was conducted to investigate the intrinsic anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of Prussian blue nanozyme (PBzyme) on AP, along with its underlying mechanism. Methods: Prussian blue nanozymes were prepared by polyvinylpyrrolidone modification method. The effect of PBzyme on inhibiting inflammation and scavenging reactive oxygen species was verified at the cellular level. The efficacy and mechanism of PBzyme for prophylactically treating AP were evaluated using the following methods: serum testing in vivo, histological scoring following hematoxylin and eosin staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling fluorescence staining, polymerase chain reaction array, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis and Western blotting analysis. Results: The synthetic PBzyme showed potent anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in reducing oxidative stress and alleviating inflammation both in vitro and in vivo in the prophylactic treatment of AP. The prophylactic therapeutic efficacy of PBzyme on AP may involve inhibition of the toll-like receptor/nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway and reactive oxygen species scavenging. Conclusion: The single-component, gram-level mass production, stable intrinsic biological activity, biosafety, and good therapeutic efficacy suggest the potential of PBzyme in the preventive treatment of AP. This study provides a foundation for the clinical application of PBzyme.

A Patient With Bilateral Conjunctivitis Positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a Conjunctival Sample.

PURPOSE: To present a patient with bilateral conjunctivitis, testing positive for viral RNA of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in both nasopharyngeal and conjunctival samples. METHODS: A 40-year-old man with bilateral acute conjunctivitis and suspicious signs of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presented to the hospital. A detailed ophthalmic examination was performed. Samples obtained from conjunctival and nasopharyngeal swabs were tested by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus. Ocular findings and duration of the presence of viral RNA in the conjunctival specimens were evaluated at follow-up visits. RESULTS: Slit-lamp biomicroscopy revealed bilateral acute follicular conjunctivitis. The RT-PCR assay demonstrated the presence of viral RNA in the nasopharyngeal and conjunctival specimens at the initial visit and at the 4-day follow-up. Conjunctivitis findings were decreased after 4 days and recovered completely without any sequelae within10 days. The PCR results of both nasopharyngeal and conjunctiva specimens were negative for the viral RNA at 10 days. CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral conjunctivitis is rare in patients infected with COVID-19. Although it is difficult to detect viral RNA from conjunctival swabs, conjunctival secretions may be a source of contamination, and protective measures must be taken.

Combining Mechanochemistry and Spray Congealing for New Praziquantel Pediatric Formulations in Schistosomiasis Treatment.

Praziquantel (PZQ) is the first line drug for the treatment of schistosome infections and is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children. In this study, the association of mechanochemical activation (MA) and the spray congealing (SC) technology was evaluated for developing a child-friendly PZQ dosage form, with better product handling and biopharmaceutical properties, compared to MA materials. A 1:1 by wt PZQ-Povidone coground-was prepared in a vibrational mill under cryogenic conditions, for favoring amorphization. PZQ was neat ground to obtain its polymorphic form (Form B), which has an improved solubility and bioactivity. Then, activated PZQ powders were loaded into microparticles (MPs) by the SC technology, using the self-emulsifying agent Gelucire® 50/13 as a carrier. Both, the activated powders and the corresponding loaded MPs were characterized for morphology, wettability, solubility, dissolution behavior, drug content, and drug solid state (Hot Stage Microscopy (HSM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-Ray Powder Diffraction Studies (PXRD), and FT-IR). Samples were also in vitro tested for a comparison with PZQ against Schistosoma mansoni newly transformed schistosomula (NTS) and adults. MPs containing both MA systems showed a further increase of biopharmaceutical properties, compared to the milled powders, while maintaining PZQ bioactivity. MPs containing PZQ Form B represented the most promising product for designing a new PZQ formulation.

Effects of a novel selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α modulator, pemafibrate, on hepatic and peripheral glucose uptake in patients with hypertriglyceridemia and insulin resistance.

AIMS/INTRODUCTION: Pemafibrate is a novel selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α modulator with potent triglyceride-lowering and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol-raising effects. We showed that pemafibrate decreased the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance in patients with dyslipidemia. To investigate how pemafibrate improves insulin sensitivity, we used a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique to determine the splanchnic and peripheral glucose uptake in patients with hypertriglyceridemia and insulin resistance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 27 patients with hypertriglyceridemia and insulin resistance were randomly assigned to receive pemafibrate (0.4 mg/day, b.i.d.) or placebo treatment for 12 weeks. The hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp test combined with oral glucose loading was carried out at weeks 0 and 12 to evaluate the splanchnic and peripheral glucose uptake. RESULTS: Pemafibrate, but not the placebo, significantly increased the splanchnic glucose uptake rate from baseline (19.6 ± 5.9% with P = 0.005 and 2.1 ± 7.4% with P = 0.78, respectively), although no significant difference between the groups was observed (P = 0.084). Conversely, peripheral glucose uptake rate was not significantly altered. Pemafibrate, compared with the placebo, significantly decreased plasma triglycerides (-61.4 ± 16.4% vs -2.5 ± 41.4%, P = 0.001), free fatty acids (-24.8 ± 23.2% vs 2.0 ± 26.8%, P = 0.016) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (-30 ± 46 vs 10 ± 19 U/L, P = 0.009) levels, and significantly increased fibroblast growth factor 21 (457.7 ± 402.1 vs -41.7 ± 37.4 pg/mL, P = 0.007) levels. CONCLUSIONS: Pemafibrate increased splanchnic glucose uptake from baseline in patients with hypertriglyceridemia.

Microspherical Particles of Solid Dispersion of Polyvinylpyrrolidone K29-32 for Inhalation Administration.

Inhalation administration is a promising alternative to the invasive drug delivery methods. The particle size required for ideal drug aerosol preparation is between 1 and 3 µm. The application of microspherical particles of solid dispersions enhances bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs due to the solubilization. In the present work, the spray drying process of the production of microspherical particles of solid dispersions of polyvinylpyrrolidone K29-32 with model hydrophobic drug, phenacetin, was optimized using the results of DSC, PXRD, and viscometry. The diameter of the obtained particles is within 1-3 µm range. The Gibbs energy of dissolution in water was shown to be negative for the mixture with polymer/phenacetin mass ratio 5 : 1. We have demonstrated that the optimal size distribution for the inhalation administration is obtained for microspherical particles produced using spray caps with 7.0 µm hole size. The dissolution rates of phenacetin from the produced microspherical particles were faster than that of drug powder. As evidenced by powder X-ray diffraction data, phenacetin stayed in amorphous state for 4 months in microspherical particles of solid dispersions. According to the obtained results, strategic application of the spray drying process could be beneficial for the improvement of the pharmaceutical properties of model drug, phenacetin.

Effect of silver nanoparticles synthesized by gamma radiation on the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin in human cancer cell lines and experimental animals.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)embedded poly ( N-vinylpyrrolidone/dextran) hydrogels were prepared by gamma radiation. Highly stable and uniformly distributed AgNPs have been obtained within hydrogel networks as nanoreactors via in situ reduction of silver nitrate using sodium borohydride as reducing agent. The formation of AgNPs has been confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy measurements show a distinct characteristic absorption peaks around 420 nm, indicating the formation of AgNPs. X-ray diffraction analysis and dynamic light scattering demonstrated that the hydrogels have regulated the AgNPs size to a nanoscale. The combination of the AgNPs with doxorubicin (DOX) as a model of antitumor drug forms a new biocompatible nanodrug. Our results show that the AgNPs effectively increased survival rate and decreased tumor volume of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma-bearing mice more than the DOX-treated group and enhanced the cytotoxicity of DOX in different human cancer cell lines (HepG2, T47D, and PC3). DOX-AgNPs decreased malondialdehyde and total nitrate/nitrite levels and increased superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione content in the rat cardiac tissues compared with the DOX-treated group. In conclusion, DOX-AgNPs improved therapeutic index and reduced DOX-induced cardiotoxicity via preservation of cardiac markers, which represents a promising candidate for cancer treatment.

Lumbar fusion with collagen type I and polyvinylpyrrolidone in combination with autograft. An experimental study in New Zealand rabbits.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple strategies have been developed looking for upgrading the consolidation rate of spine arthrodesis with autolog bone graft, but no evidence exists that adhesion with Collagen type 1 and polyvinylpyrrolidone (FibroquelMR) have application on this field. OBJECTIVE: Determine if collagen type 1 + Polyvinylpyrrolidone are effective as bone enhancer in posterolateral arthrodesis on rabbits. METHOD: Posterolateral arthrodesis in 15 New Zealand rabbits on level L5-L6 using autolog bone graft in left side (control group) and autolog bone graft + 1 ml FibroquelMR (study group) in right side of arthrodesis. Euthanasia and block resection of lumbar segment eight weeks post surgery. Radiographic analysis, manual exploration and light microscopy of fussed segments. RESULTS: Radiographic consolidation was observed in 80% in control group and 95% in study group, interleaved trabecular pattern with bone continuity and normal characteristics in 12 left sides and 14 right sides. CONCLUSION: Collagen type 1 and polyvinylpyrrolidone use is likely to have positive effect in bone consolidation process, therefore it can be recommended to use it as a bone enhancer.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Existen diversas estrategias para aumentar la tasa de consolidación de la artrodesis de columna en presencia de injerto óseo autólogo, sin aún comprobar si la adhesión de Colágena tipo I y polivinilpirrolidona (FibroquelMR) tienen aplicaciones en este campo. OBJETIVO: Determinar la efectividad de la colágena tipo I con polivinilpirrolidona como potenciador óseo en artrodesis posterolateral de conejos. MÉTODOS: Artrodesis posterolateral en 15 conejos de Nueva Zelanda L5-L6 colocando injerto autólogo del lado izquierdo (Control) e injerto autólogo + 1 ml FibroquelMR (Estudio) en el lado derecho de la artrodesis. Eutanasia con resección en bloque del segmento lumbar a las ocho semanas del postoperatorio. Análisis radiográfico, palpación manual y por microscopia de luz de los segmentos fusionados. RESULTADOS: Se observó consolidación radiográfica en 80% en grupo control y 93% en el estudio, continuidad ósea con patrón trabecular intercalado y hueso de características normales en 12 del lado izquierdo y 14 en el lado derecho. CONCLUSIONES: La utilización de Colágena tipo I y polivinilpirrolidona puede tener efectos positivos en el proceso de consolidación ósea por lo que se puede recomendar su utilización como reforzador óseo.

Comparación de la respuesta clínica a la aplicación de hilano G-F 20 y colágeno-PVP en pacientes con artrosis de rodilla / Comparison of the clinical response to the application of Hylan G-F 20 and collagen-PVP in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Resumen: Antecedentes: La osteoartritis de rodilla es una enfermedad articular caracterizada por degeneración, pérdida del cartílago y alteración del hueso subcondral asociadas a cambios en los tejidos blandos. En una muestra de 2,500 individuos se encontró una prevalencia de artrosis de 2.3% (IC 95% 1.7 a 2.9) en adultos. En nuestro hospital representa la segunda causa de consulta. Material y métodos: Se tomaron dos grupos de pacientes: el primero, de 70 pacientes a los que se les aplicó hilano G-F 20 en tres infiltraciones; al otro grupo, de 40 pacientes, se le aplicó colágeno-PVP en cuatro aplicaciones. Se les realizó un interrogatorio basado en el cuestionario de WOMAC, con el cual pudimos valorar dolor, rigidez y capacidad funcional antes y después de la aplicación de los medicamentos. Resultados: Nuestro estudio presentó que en ambos grupos hubo mejora de la calidad de vida al disminuir los síntomas tales como dolor, rigidez y limitación funcional; el colágeno fue más eficiente para la disminución del dolor y el hialino G-F 20, para la disminución de la rigidez y la limitación funcional. Conclusiones: Ambos tratamientos mostraron seguridad y eficacia. Su uso en nuestro instituto para los pacientes fuera de tratamiento quirúrgico puede disminuir de manera importante los internamientos por dolor, con lo que podemos hacer un uso más eficiente de los recursos con que contamos.

Abstract: Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a joint disease characterized by degeneration, loss of cartilage and subchondral bone alteration associated with changes in the soft tissues. In a sample of 2,500 individuals, the prevalence of osteoarthritis was found in 2.3% (IC 95% 1.7 a 2.9) in adults; it represents the second cause of consultation in our hospital. Material and methods: Two groups of patients were studied: the first included 70 patients who received hylan G-F 20 in three infiltrations; the other group, of 40 patients, received collagen-PVP in four applications. A subjective questionnaire based on the WOMAC evaluation was applied, with which we could assess pain, stiffness and functional capacity before and after the application. Results: Both hylan G-F 20 and collagen-PVP improved the quality of life of our patients by reducing symptoms such as pain, stiffness and functional limitation, collagen being more efficient for reducing pain and hylan G-F 20 for reducing stiffness and functional limitation. Conclusions: Both treatments were safe and effective; they can be used in our institute as a conservative treatment to decrease hospitalizations for pain management.

Lumbar fusion with collagen type I and polyvinylpyrrolidone in combination with autograft. An experimental study in New Zealand rabbits / Colágena tipo I y polivinilpirrolidona en combinación con autoinjerto para artrodesis lumbar. Estudio experimental en conejos de Nueva Zelanda

Abstract: Introduction: Multiple strategies have been developed looking for upgrading the consolidation rate of spine arthrodesis with autolog bone graft, but no evidence exists that adhesion with Collagen type 1 and polyvinylpyrrolidone (FibroquelMR) have application on this field. Objective: Determine if collagen type 1 + Polyvinylpyrrolidone are effective as bone enhancer in posterolateral arthrodesis on rabbits. Method: Posterolateral arthrodesis in 15 New Zealand rabbits on level L5-L6 using autolog bone graft in left side (control group) and autolog bone graft + 1 ml FibroquelMR (study group) in right side of arthrodesis. Euthanasia and block resection of lumbar segment eight weeks post surgery. Radiographic analysis, manual exploration and light microscopy of fussed segments. Results: Radiographic consolidation was observed in 80% in control group and 95% in study group, interleaved trabecular pattern with bone continuity and normal characteristics in 12 left sides and 14 right sides. Conclusion: Collagen type 1 and polyvinylpyrrolidone use is likely to have positive effect in bone consolidation process, therefore it can be recommended to use it as a bone enhancer.

Resumen: Introducción: Existen diversas estrategias para aumentar la tasa de consolidación de la artrodesis de columna en presencia de injerto óseo autólogo, sin aún comprobar si la adhesión de Colágena tipo I y polivinilpirrolidona (FibroquelMR) tienen aplicaciones en este campo. Objetivo: Determinar la efectividad de la colágena tipo I con polivinilpirrolidona como potenciador óseo en artrodesis posterolateral de conejos. Métodos: Artrodesis posterolateral en 15 conejos de Nueva Zelanda L5-L6 colocando injerto autólogo del lado izquierdo (Control) e injerto autólogo + 1 ml FibroquelMR (Estudio) en el lado derecho de la artrodesis. Eutanasia con resección en bloque del segmento lumbar a las ocho semanas del postoperatorio. Análisis radiográfico, palpación manual y por microscopia de luz de los segmentos fusionados. Resultados: Se observó consolidación radiográfica en 80% en grupo control y 93% en el estudio, continuidad ósea con patrón trabecular intercalado y hueso de características normales en 12 del lado izquierdo y 14 en el lado derecho. Conclusiones: La utilización de Colágena tipo I y polivinilpirrolidona puede tener efectos positivos en el proceso de consolidación ósea por lo que se puede recomendar su utilización como reforzador óseo.

Dressings and topical agents for treating pressure ulcers.

BACKGROUND: Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, decubitus ulcers and pressure injuries, are localised areas of injury to the skin or the underlying tissue, or both. Dressings are widely used to treat pressure ulcers and promote healing, and there are many options to choose from including alginate, hydrocolloid and protease-modulating dressings. Topical agents have also been used as alternatives to dressings in order to promote healing.A clear and current overview of all the evidence is required to facilitate decision-making regarding the use of dressings or topical agents for the treatment of pressure ulcers. Such a review would ideally help people with pressure ulcers and health professionals assess the best treatment options. This review is a network meta-analysis (NMA) which assesses the probability of complete ulcer healing associated with alternative dressings and topical agents. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of dressings and topical agents for healing pressure ulcers in any care setting. We aimed to examine this evidence base as a whole, determining probabilities that each treatment is the best, with full assessment of uncertainty and evidence quality. SEARCH METHODS: In July 2016 we searched the Cochrane Wounds Specialised Register; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL); Ovid MEDLINE; Ovid MEDLINE (In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations); Ovid Embase and EBSCO CINAHL Plus. We also searched clinical trials registries for ongoing and unpublished studies, and scanned reference lists of relevant included studies as well as reviews, meta-analyses, guidelines and health technology reports to identify additional studies. There were no restrictions with respect to language, date of publication or study setting. SELECTION CRITERIA: Published or unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of at least one of the following interventions with any other intervention in the treatment of pressure ulcers (Stage 2 or above): any dressing, or any topical agent applied directly to an open pressure ulcer and left in situ. We excluded from this review dressings attached to external devices such as negative pressure wound therapies, skin grafts, growth factor treatments, platelet gels and larval therapy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently performed study selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction. We conducted network meta-analysis using frequentist mega-regression methods for the efficacy outcome, probability of complete healing. We modelled the relative effectiveness of any two treatments as a function of each treatment relative to the reference treatment (saline gauze). We assumed that treatment effects were similar within dressings classes (e.g. hydrocolloid, foam). We present estimates of effect with their 95% confidence intervals for individual treatments compared with every other, and we report ranking probabilities for each intervention (probability of being the best, second best, etc treatment). We assessed the certainty (quality) of the body of evidence using GRADE for each network comparison and for the network as whole. MAIN RESULTS: We included 51 studies (2947 participants) in this review and carried out NMA in a network of linked interventions for the sole outcome of probability of complete healing. The network included 21 different interventions (13 dressings, 6 topical agents and 2 supplementary linking interventions) and was informed by 39 studies in 2127 participants, of whom 783 had completely healed wounds.We judged the network to be sparse: overall, there were relatively few participants, with few events, both for the number of interventions and the number of mixed treatment contrasts; most studies were small or very small. The consequence of this sparseness is high imprecision in the evidence, and this, coupled with the (mainly) high risk of bias in the studies informing the network, means that we judged the vast majority of the evidence to be of low or very low certainty. We have no confidence in the findings regarding the rank order of interventions in this review (very low-certainty evidence), but we report here a summary of results for some comparisons of interventions compared with saline gauze. We present here only the findings from evidence which we did not consider to be very low certainty, but these reported results should still be interpreted in the context of the very low certainty of the network as a whole.It is not clear whether regimens involving protease-modulating dressings increase the probability of pressure ulcer healing compared with saline gauze (risk ratio (RR) 1.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.92 to 2.94) (moderate-certainty evidence: low risk of bias, downgraded for imprecision). This risk ratio of 1.65 corresponds to an absolute difference of 102 more people healed with protease modulating dressings per 1000 people treated than with saline gauze alone (95% CI 13 fewer to 302 more). It is unclear whether the following interventions increase the probability of healing compared with saline gauze (low-certainty evidence): collagenase ointment (RR 2.12, 95% CI 1.06 to 4.22); foam dressings (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.26); basic wound contact dressings (RR 1.30, 95% CI 0.65 to 2.58) and polyvinylpyrrolidone plus zinc oxide (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.37 to 4.62); the latter two interventions both had confidence intervals consistent with both a clinically important benefit and a clinically important harm, and the former two interventions each had high risk of bias as well as imprecision. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: A network meta-analysis (NMA) of data from 39 studies (evaluating 21 dressings and topical agents for pressure ulcers) is sparse and the evidence is of low or very low certainty (due mainly to risk of bias and imprecision). Consequently we are unable to determine which dressings or topical agents are the most likely to heal pressure ulcers, and it is generally unclear whether the treatments examined are more effective than saline gauze.More research is needed to determine whether particular dressings or topical agents improve the probability of healing of pressure ulcers. The NMA is uninformative regarding which interventions might best be included in a large trial, and it may be that research is directed towards prevention, leaving clinicians to decide which treatment to use on the basis of wound symptoms, clinical experience, patient preference and cost.

Glycoproteins functionalized natural and synthetic polymers for prospective biomedical applications: A review.

Glycoproteins have multidimensional properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, antimicrobial and adsorption properties; therefore, they have wide range of applications. They are blended with different polymers such as chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), polycaprolactone (PCL), heparin, polystyrene fluorescent nanoparticles (PS-NPs) and carboxyl pullulan (PC) to improve their properties like thermal stability, mechanical properties, resistance to pH, chemical stability and toughness. Considering the versatile charateristics of glycoprotein based polymers, this review sheds light on synthesis and characterization of blends and composites of glycoproteins, with natural and synthetic polymers and their potential applications in biomedical field such as drug delivery system, insulin delivery, antimicrobial wound dressing uses, targeting of cancer cells, development of anticancer vaccines, development of new biopolymers, glycoproteome research, food product and detection of dengue glycoproteins. All the technical scientific issues have been addressed; highlighting the recent advancement.

[Comparison of the clinical response to the application of Hylan G-F 20 and collagen-PVP in patients with knee osteoarthritis]. / Comparación de la respuesta clínica a la aplicación de hilano G-F 20 y colágeno-PVP en pacientes con artrosis de rodilla.

BACKGROUND: Knee osteoarthritis is a joint disease characterized by degeneration, loss of cartilage and subchondral bone alteration associated with changes in the soft tissues. In a sample of 2,500 individuals, the prevalence of osteoarthritis was found in 2.3% (IC 95% 1.7 a 2.9) in adults; it represents the second cause of consultation in our hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two groups of patients were studied: the first included 70 patients who received hylan G-F 20 in three infiltrations; the other group, of 40 patients, received collagen-PVP in four applications. A subjective questionnaire based on the WOMAC evaluation was applied, with which we could assess pain, stiffness and functional capacity before and after the application. RESULTS: Both hylan G-F 20 and collagen-PVP improved the quality of life of our patients by reducing symptoms such as pain, stiffness and functional limitation, collagen being more efficient for reducing pain and hylan G-F 20 for reducing stiffness and functional limitation. CONCLUSIONS: Both treatments were safe and effective; they can be used in our institute as a conservative treatment to decrease hospitalizations for pain management.

ANTECEDENTES: La osteoartritis de rodilla es una enfermedad articular caracterizada por degeneración, pérdida del cartílago y alteración del hueso subcondral asociadas a cambios en los tejidos blandos. En una muestra de 2,500 individuos se encontró una prevalencia de artrosis de 2.3% (IC 95% 1.7 a 2.9) en adultos. En nuestro hospital representa la segunda causa de consulta. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se tomaron dos grupos de pacientes: el primero, de 70 pacientes a los que se les aplicó hilano G-F 20 en tres infiltraciones; al otro grupo, de 40 pacientes, se le aplicó colágeno-PVP en cuatro aplicaciones. Se les realizó un interrogatorio basado en el cuestionario de WOMAC, con el cual pudimos valorar dolor, rigidez y capacidad funcional antes y después de la aplicación de los medicamentos. RESULTADOS: Nuestro estudio presentó que en ambos grupos hubo mejora de la calidad de vida al disminuir los síntomas tales como dolor, rigidez y limitación funcional; el colágeno fue más eficiente para la disminución del dolor y el hialino G-F 20, para la disminución de la rigidez y la limitación funcional. CONCLUSIONES: Ambos tratamientos mostraron seguridad y eficacia. Su uso en nuestro instituto para los pacientes fuera de tratamiento quirúrgico puede disminuir de manera importante los internamientos por dolor, con lo que podemos hacer un uso más eficiente de los recursos con que contamos.

Clinical efficacy of a combination of Percoll continuous density gradient and swim-up techniques for semen processing in HIV-1 serodiscordant couples.

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of a procedure comprising a combination of Percoll continuous density gradient and modified swim-up techniques for the removal of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) from the semen of HIV-1 infected males, a total of 129 couples with an HIV-1 positive male partner and an HIV-1 negative female partner (serodiscordant couples) who were treated at Keio University Hospital between January 2002 and April 2012 were examined. A total of 183 ejaculates from 129 HIV-1 infected males were processed. After swim-up, we successfully collected motile sperms at a recovery rate as high as 100.0% in cases of normozoospermia (126/126 ejaculates), oligozoospermia (6/6), and asthenozoospermia (36/36). The recovery rate of oligoasthenozoospermia was 86.7% (13/15). In processed semen only four ejaculates (4/181:2.2%) showed viral nucleotide sequences consistent with those in the blood of the infected males. After using these sperms, no horizontal infections of the female patients and no vertical infections of the newborns were observed. Furthermore, no obvious adverse effects were observed in the offspring. This protocol allowed us to collect HIV-1 negative motile sperms at a high rate, even in male factor cases. We concluded that our protocol is clinically effective both for decreasing HIV-1 infections and for yielding a healthy child.

Prevention and Treatment of Postoperative Endophthalmitis Using Povidone-Iodine.

Postoperative endophthalmitis is typically caused by patient's conjunctival bacterial flora or contaminated solutions and instruments. Visual outcome is often poor in severe cases, and treatment is especially difficult when endophthalmitis is caused by multidrug resistant bacteria. Povidone-iodine is used worldwide due to its wide-spectrum antimicrobial activity, absence of resistant bacteria to povidone-iodine, and low cost. Furthermore, the effective concentration against microorganisms and safe concentration for ocular tissues have been well established. For ocular surface washing, the safe and highly bactericidal concentrations range from 0.050 to 0.500%. Repeated washing of the ocular surface with 0.250% povidone-iodine every 20-30 seconds during ophthalmic surgeries eliminates the conjunctival normal flora, minimizing the passage of bacteria into intraocular compartment, and is thus useful for the prevention of endophthalmitis. The concentration range of 0.013%-0.027% is effective for the treatment of endophthalmitis and nontoxic to intraocular tissues. In a small case series, 4 eyes with endophthalmitis were treated by vitrectomy using 0.025% povidone-iodine in Balanced Salt Solution (BSS) PLUS for vitreous irrigation. In all eyes, endophthalmitis was resolved with no ocular complications and visual acuity was improved. When performing ophthalmic surgeries, washing the ocular surface with saline containing 0.250% povidone-iodine every 20-30 seconds is safe for ocular tissues and effective for the prevention of endophthalmitis. A small case series suggested the effectiveness and safety of using irrigation solution containing 0.025% povidone-iodine in vitrectomy for the treatment of endophthalmitis, but this treatment method remains to be established.

Silicon-dioxide-polyvinylpyrrolidone as a wound dressing for skin defects in a murine model.

OBJECTIVE: There is a high demand for temporary wound dressings that improve wound healing and regeneration. Silicon (as SiO2) has been shown to support the growth and collagen formation in biological systems. METHODS: A nanocomposite was made from PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidon), nano-sized silica aggregates and water and served for fabrication of a wet dressing material (SiO2-PVP gel, by cross-linking the gel) and a freeze-dried dressing material (SiO2-PVP fleece). Materials were characterized by SAXS, DSC, EDX and viscosity measurements. A 10 mm circular defect was set on both sides of the back of SKH1-hr mice (n = 40) and both dressing materials were compared with untreated controls. After 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 days, the defect regions were explanted and evaluated by histomorphometric measurements and CD31-immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: The microstructure of the compound was composed of fiber like structures. SiO2 nano-aggregates inside the composite remained stable and embedded in a rigid amorphous PVP fraction. In animal experiments, all groups showed a non-irritated defect closure after 9 days. EDX of SiO2-PVP gel and fleeces revealed SiO2-PVP diffusion into the wound. Wound contraction was significantly enhanced after treatment with SiO2-PVP gel followed by SiO2-PVP fleece compared to controls. Re-epithelialization was increased in SiO2-PVP treated wounds and the regenerated epidermis showed a well-differentiated layer structure compared to untreated controls. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that silica diffuses from the dressing into the wound. Both dressings affect the wound healing. The SiO2-based wound dressing may counteract scarring and might be suitable as a temporary wound dressing.

Efficacy and safety of quercetin and polyvinylpyrrolidone in treatment of patients with newly diagnosed destructive pulmonary tuberculosis in comparison with standard antimycobacterial therapy.

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND: The objective/background of this work was to study the efficacy and safety of quercetin and polyvinylpyrrolidone (QP) in the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed destructive pulmonary tuberculosis in comparison with standard antimycobacterial therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved 124 patients aged between 20years and 70years with newly diagnosed destructive pulmonary tuberculosis. Patients were allocated to two groups. The first (control) group of patients received standard antimycobacterial and pathogenetic therapy and included 31 (25.00±3.89%) patients. The second (main) group of patients received QP therapy in addition to chemotherapy and included 93 (75.00±3.89%) patients. RESULTS: Intoxication symptoms in the second group were reduced following 1.33±0.15months, whereas in the first group intoxication symptoms were reduced following 2.64±0.20months, p<.001. CONCLUSION: Administration of QP combined with chemotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed destructive pulmonary tuberculosis resulted in a comparatively quick reduction of disease manifestation.

Efficacy and safety of a cationic emulsion in the treatment of moderate to severe dry eye disease: a randomized controlled study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a preservative-free cationic emulsion (CE) with a 0.18% hyaluronate sodium (HS) solution in patients with moderate to severe dry eye disease (DED) with keratitis or keratoconjunctivitis. METHODS: Eighty-five patients were randomized (1:1) in this multicenter, prospective, reference-controlled, parallel-group, investigator-masked study to receive CE (n = 44) or HS (n = 41). Clinical signs and symptoms were assessed over 3 months. The primary efficacy endpoint was noninferiority of CE to HS in change from baseline of ocular surface staining (OSS) score at 1 month. RESULTS: In the per protocol (PP) set and full analysis set (FAS), CE showed a similar and noninferior (p<0.0001) improvement in OSS scores compared with HS at 1 month (PP: -2.5 ± 1.3 vs -1.9 ± 1.6; FAS: -2.2 ± 1.5 vs -2.0 ± 1.8 for CE vs HS). Other clinical signs of DED similarly improved in both groups. In the FAS, global symptoms score of ocular discomfort was significantly better with CE compared with HS at 1 month (-14.8 ± 17.3 vs -7.6 ± 14.2; p = 0.0469), including greater alleviation of itching (-14.8 ± 21.2 vs -1.7 ± 19.7; p = 0.0100) and eye dryness (-21.9 ± 28.3 vs -8.4 ± 21.4; p = 0.0016). Similar trends were observed at 3 months for itching and eye dryness. Investigator global efficacy assessment and quality of life scores for eye pain and driving favored CE at 3 months. Incidence of adverse events was low in both treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: CE was similar to HS with regards to safety and efficacy for objective signs but was superior to HS in improving DED symptoms in patients with moderate to severe DED.