Sample records for hyaluronate improves outcomes

  1. Using Hyaluronic Acid for Improving Vocal Function in a Prepubescent Boy With an Atrophied Right Vocal Fold.

    PubMed

    Cohen, Wendy; Wynne, David McGregor

    2015-07-01

    A single case study is reported of a child who underwent several surgical procedures as result of congenital grade III subglottic stenosis. The anterior aspect of the right vocal cord was damaged and underwent atrophy during one of these procedures. Now, an active 10-year-old, the patient has become increasingly aware of his vocal limitations on functional activities. Injection of hyaluronic acid into the vocal folds has been known to provide improved voice quality in adults although there are no known cases reported of this procedure in children. This article reports voice outcomes after injection of hyaluronic acid into the Reinke's space in a single case study. Voice recordings were made before, after, and 1 month after injection. The voice recordings were subject to acoustic and perceptual analysis. Post and follow-up voice recordings demonstrate decreased jitter, shimmer, and harmonics-to-noise ratio. Perceptual evaluation indicates improved voice quality. Injection of hyaluronic acid in children who require voice augmentation is possible and may contribute to increased vocal function and improved voice outcomes. Copyright © 2015 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Clinical benefit using sperm hyaluronic acid binding technique in ICSI cycles: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Beck-Fruchter, Ronit; Shalev, Eliezer; Weiss, Amir

    2016-03-01

    The human oocyte is surrounded by hyaluronic acid, which acts as a natural selector of spermatozoa. Human sperm that express hyaluronic acid receptors and bind to hyaluronic acid have normal shape, minimal DNA fragmentation and low frequency of chromosomal aneuploidies. Use of hyaluronic acid binding assays in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles to improve clinical outcomes has been studied, although none of these studies had sufficient statistical power. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, electronic databases were searched up to June 2015 to identify studies of ICSI cycles in which spermatozoa able to bind hyaluronic acid was selected. The main outcomes were fertilization rate and clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes included cleavage rate, embryo quality, implantation rate, spontaneous abortion and live birth rate. Seven studies and 1437 cycles were included. Use of hyaluronic acid binding sperm selection technique yielded no improvement in fertilization and pregnancy rates. A meta-analysis of all available studies showed an improvement in embryo quality and implantation rate; an analysis of prospective studies only showed an improvement in embryo quality. Evidence does not support routine use of hyaluronic acid binding assays in all ICSI cycles. Identification of patients that might benefit from this technique needs further study. Copyright © 2015 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Hyaluronic acid for post sinus surgery care: systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Fong, E; Garcia, M; Woods, C M; Ooi, E

    2017-01-01

    Wound healing after endoscopic sinus surgery may result in adhesion formation. Hyaluronic acid may prevent synechiae development. A systematic review was performed to evaluate the current evidence on the clinical efficacy of hyaluronic acid applied to the nasal cavity after sinus surgery. Studies using hyaluronic acid as an adjunct treatment following endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis were identified. The primary outcome was adhesion formation rates. A meta-analysis was performed on adhesion event frequency. Secondary outcome measures included other endoscopic findings and patient-reported outcomes. Thirteen studies (501 patients) met the selection criteria. A meta-analysis of adhesion formation frequency on endoscopy demonstrated a lower risk ratio in the hyaluronic acid intervention group (42 out of 283 cases) compared to the control group (81 out of 282) of 0.52 (95 per cent confidence interval = 0.37-0.72). Hyaluronic acid use was not associated with any significant adverse events. Hyaluronic acid appears to be clinically safe and well tolerated, and may be useful in the early stages after sinus surgery to limit adhesion rate. Further research, including larger randomised controlled trials, is required to evaluate patient- and clinician-reported outcomes of hyaluronic acid post sinus surgery.

  4. Improvement in skin wrinkles using a preparation containing human growth factors and hyaluronic acid serum.

    PubMed

    Lee, Do Hyun; Oh, In Young; Koo, Kyo Tan; Suk, Jang Mi; Jung, Sang Wook; Park, Jin Oh; Kim, Beom Joon; Choi, Yoo Mi

    2015-02-01

    Skin aging is accompanied by wrinkle formation. At some sites, such as the periorbital skin, this is a relatively early phenomenon. We evaluated the anti-wrinkle effect of a preparation containing human growth factor and hyaluronic acid serum on periorbital wrinkles (crow's feet). In total, 23 Korean women (age range: 39-59 years), who were not pregnant, nursing, or undergoing any concurrent therapy, were enrolled in this study. All the patients completed an 8-week trial of twice-daily application of human growth factor and hyaluronic acid serum on the entire face. Efficacy was based on a global photodamage score, photographs, and image analysis using replicas and visiometer analysis every 4 weeks. The standard wrinkle and roughness parameters used in assessing skin by visiometer were calculated and statistically analyzed. Periorbital wrinkles were significantly improved after treatment, with improvements noted both by physician's assessment and visiometer analysis. Topical application of human growth factor and hyaluronic acid was beneficial in reducing periorbital wrinkles.

  5. Efficacy and durability of hyaluronic acid fillers for malar enhancement: A prospective, randomized, split-face clinical controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Jeong, Ki Heon; Gwak, Min Jae; Moon, Sung Kyung; Lee, Sang Jun; Shin, Min Kyung

    2018-06-01

    Various hyaluronic acid fillers can be used for facial attenuation and rejuvenation. The efficacy and durability of hyaluronic acid fillers are of major concern to dermatologists and patients. This study aimed to evaluate three-dimensional morphology, tissue distribution, and changes in volume after injection of two different hyaluronic acid fillers. Ten Korean women were enrolled in this study. Each subject was injected with monophasic hyaluronic acid filler in one malar area and biphasic filler in the other. Clinical outcome was measured before and after injection, and after 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 weeks, using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, photographs and Moire's topography. Facial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed twice over six months. Both products showed good results after injection and demonstrated good durability over time. MRI was a useful modality for assessing tissue distribution and volume changes. The effects and durability after injection of monophasic hyaluronic acid filler and biphasic hyaluronic acid filler are generally comparable.

  6. Hyaluronic acid improves "pleasantness" and tolerability of nebulized hypertonic saline in a cohort of patients with cystic fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Buonpensiero, Paolo; De Gregorio, Fabiola; Sepe, Angela; Di Pasqua, Antonio; Ferri, Pasqualina; Siano, Maria; Terlizzi, Vito; Raia, Valeria

    2010-11-01

    Inhaled hypertonic saline improves lung function and decreases pulmonary exacerbations in people with cystic fibrosis. However, side effects such as cough, narrowing of airways and saltiness cause intolerance of the therapy in 8% of patients. The aim of our study was to compare the effect of an inhaled solution of hyaluronic acid and hypertonic saline with hypertonic solution alone on safety and tolerability. A total of 20 patients with cystic fibrosis aged 6 years and over received a single treatment regimen of 7% hypertonic saline solution or hypertonic solution with 0.1% hyaluronate for 2 days nonconsecutively after a washout period in an open crossover study. Cough, throat irritation, and salty taste were evaluated by a modified ordinal score for assessing tolerability; "pleasantness" was evaluated by a five-level, Likert-type scale. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second was registered before and after the end of the saline inhalations. All 20 patients (nine males, 11 females, mean age 13 years, range 8.9-17.7) completed the study. The inhaled solution of 0.1% hyaluronic acid and hypertonic saline significantly improved tolerability and pleasantness compared to hypertonic saline alone. No major adverse effects were observed. No difference was documented in pulmonary function tests between the two treatments. Hyaluronic acid combined with hypertonic saline solution may contribute to improved adherence to hypertonic saline therapy. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm our findings. Considering the extraordinary versatility of hyaluronic acid in biological reactions, perspective studies could define its applicability to halting progression of lung disease in cystic fibrosis.

  7. Utilization and safety of sodium hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose adhesion barrier.

    PubMed

    Bashir, Shazia; Ananth, Cande V; Lewin, Sharyn N; Burke, William M; Lu, Yu-Shiang; Neugut, Alfred I; Herzog, Thomas J; Hershman, Dawn L; Wright, Jason D

    2013-10-01

    Little is known about the use and toxicity of antiadhesion substances such as sodium hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose. We analyzed the patterns of use and safety of sodium hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose in patients undergoing colectomy and gynecologic surgery. This is a retrospective cohort study. This study covered hospitals nationwide. All patients in the Premier Perspective database who underwent colectomy or hysterectomy from 2000 to 2010 were included in the analyses. Hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose use was determined by billing codes. For the primary outcome, we used hierarchical mixed-effects logistic regression models to determine the factors associated with the use of hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose, whereas a propensity score-matched analysis was used to secondarily assess the association between hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose use and toxicity (abscess, bowel and wound complications, peritonitis). We identified 382,355 patients who underwent hysterectomy and 267,368 who underwent colectomy. For hysterectomy, hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose use was 5.0% overall, increasing from 1.1% in 2000 to 9.8% in 2010. Hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose was used in 8.1% of those who underwent colectomy and increased from 6.2% in 2000 to 12.4% in 2010. The year of diagnosis and procedure volume of the attending surgeon were the strongest predictors of hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose use. After matching and risk adjustment, hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose use was not associated with abscess formation (1.5% vs 1.5%) (relative risk = 0.97; 95% CI, 0.84-1.12) in those who underwent hysterectomy. A patient receiving hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose had a 13% increased risk of abscess (17.4% vs 15.0%) (relative risk = 1.13; 95% CI, 1.08-1.17) after colectomy. This was an observational study. Hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose use has increased over the past decade for colectomy and hysterectomy. Although there is no association between hyaluronate

  8. Clinical Improvement of Subacute and Chronic Otitis Media With Effusion Treated With Hyaluronic Acid Plus Hypertonic Solution via Nasal Lavage: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Cioffi, Luigi; Gallo, Patrizia; D'Avino, Antonio; Carlomagno, Francesco; Aloi, Giuseppe; D'Onofrio, Antonietta; Del Gaizo, Donatella; Giuliano, Maria; De Franchis, Raffaella; Sandomenico, Maria L; Pecoraro, Anna

    2017-01-01

    Background . This study, a randomized controlled trial, aims to demonstrate a clinically significant improvement in subacute and chronic otitis media with effusion through the administration of hyaluronic acid associated with hypertonic solution compared with the administration of hypertonic solution alone. The setting was an outpatient clinic of 20 primary care pediatrician offices affiliated with the 3 Local Health Units (Azienda Sanitaria Locale) of Naples. Materials and Methods . The study was conducted for 6 months, from October 2014 to the end of March 2015. The study saw the participation of 20 pediatricians who were experts in pneumatic otoscopy, each of whom enrolled 15 children. Each investigator was randomized to carry out the treatment with 3% hypertonic solution or high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid + 3% hypertonic solution. Results . A total of 275 children were enrolled, of whom 11(equal to 4% ) were lost to follow-up. A total of 264 children completed the trial according to the protocol, 120 in the hyaluronic acid + hypertonic solution group and 144 in the hypertonic solution group. Hyaluronic acid associated with hypertonic solution and hypertonic solution alone administered by nasal lavage have proven to be safe and effective in the treatment of prolonged otitis media with effusion (initial score of -0.5, final score of 0.9, P < 001, for the hypertonic + hyaluronic acid group; initial score of -0.3, final score of 0.2, P < .001, for the hypertonic solution group). Though starting from a less favorable initial clinical score (-0.5 vs -0.3, P < .016), hyaluronic acid associated with hypertonic solution resulted in a significant increase in clinical healing (0.9 vs 0.2, P < .001). One interesting outcome was the significant reduction in the consumption of drugs (cortisone and antibiotics) during the follow-up.

  9. Correction of Age-Related Midface Volume Loss With Low-Volume Hyaluronic Acid Filler.

    PubMed

    Wilson, Monique Vanaman; Fabi, Sabrina Guillen; Greene, Ryan

    2017-03-01

    The pivotal approval trial for a smooth, highly cohesive, viscous, 20-mg/mL hyaluronic acid filler demonstrated sustained aesthetic improvement, with a mean injection volume of 6.65 mL. In daily practice, however, it is not often practical or necessary to use large injection volumes to achieve the desired cosmetic outcome. To assess the efficacy, longevity, and patient satisfaction associated with correction of age-related midface volume loss using the low volumes of hyaluronic acid filler more commonly used in day-to-day practice. A 2-center, retrospective cohort study examined medical records of 61 healthy patients who underwent treatment for facial volume loss with hyaluronic acid filler from November 1, 2013, through April 31, 2014. Follow-up visits were conducted at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure. Data were pooled from a private facial plastic surgery practice in Weston, Florida, and a private cosmetic dermatology practice in San Diego, California. Patients were treated with hyaluronic acid filler according to the investigator's usual practices. The main outcome measure was patient-graded Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Scores range from 1 to 5; 1 indicates very much improved and 5, worse. A total of 61 consecutive, healthy adult patients (mean [SD] age, 57.4 [12.8] years) with mild to severe facial volume loss were enrolled in the study. A total of 46 patients (75%) were white, 3 (5%) were black/African American, 9 (15%) were Hispanic/Latino, 1 (2%) was Asian/Pacific Islander, and 2 (3%) were other. Three patients (5%) were male, and 58 (95%) were female. Mean initial treatment volume was 1.6 mL. At follow-up, 29 patients (48%) elected to have a touch-up treatment; mean total touch-up volume was 1.4 mL. The patient-graded Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment demonstrated that 73% (41 of 56) to 89% (24 of 27) of the study patients reported being very

  10. [Facial injections of hyaluronic acid-based fillers for malformations. Preliminary study regarding scar tissue improvement and cosmetic betterment].

    PubMed

    Franchi, G; Neiva-Vaz, C; Picard, A; Vazquez, M-P

    2018-06-01

    Cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based fillers have gained rapid acceptance for treating facial wrinkles, deep tissue folds and sunken areas due to aging. This study evaluates, in addition to space-filling properties, their effects on softness and elasticity as a secondary effect, following injection of 3 commercially available cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based fillers (15mg/mL, 17,5mg/mL and 20mg/mL) in patients presenting with congenital or acquired facial malformations. We started injecting gels of cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based fillers in those cases in 2013; we performed 46 sessions of injections in 32 patients, aged from 13-32. Clinical assessment was performed by the patient himself and by a plastic surgeon, 15 days after injections and 6-18 months later. Cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based fillers offered very subtle cosmetic results and supplemented surgery with a very high level of satisfaction of the patients. When injected in fibrosis, the first session enhanced softness and elasticity; the second session enhanced the volume. Cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based fillers fill sunken areas and better softness and elasticity of scar tissues. In addition to their well-understood space-filling function, as a secondary effect, the authors demonstrate that cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based fillers improve softness and elasticity of scarring tissues. Many experimental studies support our observations, showing that cross-linked hyaluronic acid stimulates the production of several extra-cellular matrix components, including dermal collagen and elastin. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  11. Serum hyaluronic acid in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts.

    PubMed

    Seki, M; Asano, K; Sakai, M; Kanno, N; Teshima, K; Edamura, K; Tanaka, S

    2010-05-01

    To compare the serum level of hyaluronic acid in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt with that in healthy dogs and to investigate the perioperative change in serum hyaluronic acid following shunt attenuation. Blood samples were obtained from 29 congenital portosystemic shunt dogs before the operation, and 2 and 4 weeks after the operation from 17 and 7 dogs, respectively. The serum hyaluronic acid level of these dogs was measured and compared with that of 10 healthy beagles. The median preoperative hyaluronic acid level in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt was significantly elevated compared with that in healthy dogs. Furthermore, the median postoperative hyaluronic acid level significantly decreased compared with the median preoperative levels in congenital portosystemic shunt dogs. In the case of dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt, the reduction of intrahepatic portal blood flow might lower the clearance rate of hyaluronic acid in hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells, so hyaluronic acid clearance could be improved by attenuation of a shunt vessel. Hence, serum hyaluronic acid levels might be useful to evaluate liver function and also have the potential to evaluate successful attenuation of a shunt vessel in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt. Further investigations are required to clarify whether serum hyaluronic acid offers significant benefits over existing markers such as serum bile acid or ammonia concentrations.

  12. Pain reduction and improvement of function following ultrasound-guided intra-articular injections of triamcinolone hexacetonide and hyaluronic acid in hip osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Araújo, J P; Silva, L; Andrade, R; Paços, M; Moreira, H; Migueis, N; Pereira, R; Sarmento, A; Pereira, H; Loureiro, N; Espregueira-Mendes, J

    2016-01-01

    The scientific literature has shown positive results regarding intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid in osteoarthritic joints. When injecting in the hip joint, the guidance of ultrasound can provide higher injection accuracy and repeatability. However, due to the methodological limitations in the current available literature, its recommendation in the current practice is still controversial. This study shows that ultrasound-guided intra-articular injections of triamcinolone hexacetonide and hyaluronic acid can improve pain, function and quality of life in patients with symptomatic and radiographic hip osteoarthritis. In addition, the administration of triamcinolone hexacetonide and hyaluronic acid to the hip joint in these patients can delay the need for interventional surgery.

  13. The Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Current Understanding of the Tissue Device Interface.

    PubMed

    Greene, Jacqueline J; Sidle, Douglas M

    2015-11-01

    The article is a detailed update regarding cosmetic injectable fillers, specifically focusing on hyaluronic acid fillers. Hyaluronic acid-injectable fillers are used extensively for soft tissue volumizing and contouring. Many different hyaluronic acid-injectable fillers are available on the market and differ in terms of hyaluronic acid concentration, particle size, cross-linking density, requisite needle size, duration, stiffness, hydration, presence of lidocaine, type of cross-linking technology, and cost. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of many soft tissues, is identical across species minimizing immunogenicity has been linked to wound healing and skin regeneration, and is currently actively being studied for tissue engineering purposes. The biomechanical and biochemical effects of HA on the local microenvironment of the injected site are key to its success as a soft tissue filler. Knowledge of the tissue-device interface will help guide the facial practitioner and lead to optimal outcomes for patients. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Will a single periarticular lidocaine-corticosteroid injection improve the clinical efficacy of intraarticular hyaluronic acid treatment of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis?

    PubMed

    Ertürk, Cemil; Altay, Mehmet Akif; Altay, Nuray; Kalender, Ali Murat; Öztürk, İbrahim Avşin

    2016-11-01

    A local injection of corticosteroid-lidocaine into the periarticular soft tissue structures is used commonly for rapid pain relief. It is hypothesized that knee pain associated with knee osteoarthritis would be relieved quickly and effectively in patients receiving intraarticular hyaluronic acid combined with a periarticular lidocaine-corticosteroid injection. To test this hypothesis, the clinical effect of the combined treatment with hyaluronic acid injection alone in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis as compared in this prospective single-blinded randomized trial. This study included 70 patients. Group 1 (n = 35) received intraarticular hyaluronic acid injections only, whereas group 2 (n = 35) received intraarticular hyaluronic acid injections combined with a single local injection of corticosteroid-lidocaine. Injections were administered to the most painful areas of the anterior or posterior medial condyle of the femur or tibia. The outcome was measured by independent assessors (blinded to treatment) using a linear VAS pain scale and WOMAC and HSS knee scores. Assessments were performed at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 26, and 52 weeks. During the first 3 weeks, group 2 patients showed significantly better all scores than did group 1 patients (p < 0.01). However, no significant differences were detected at 6, 12, 26 or 52 weeks (n.s.). The combined treatment may lead to earlier pain relief compared with intraarticular hyaluronic acid alone in patients with knee osteoarthritis and can be considered a useful adjunctive treatment modality. This combined method may provide early return to patient's daily activity. Therapeutic study, Level I.

  15. Chitosan-co-Hyaluronic acid porous cryogels and their application in tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Kutlusoy, Tuğçe; Oktay, Burcu; Apohan, Nilhan Kayaman; Süleymanoğlu, Mediha; Kuruca, Serap Erdem

    2017-10-01

    In this work, the usability of chitosan-co-hyaluronic acid cryogels as a tissue-engineering scaffold was investigated. Chitosan-co-hyaluronic acid cryogels were synthesized at subzero temperature. Cryogels which were composed of various compositions of chitosan and hyaluronic acid (0, 10, 20, 30 and 50wt% hyaluronic acid) was prepared. Morphological studies showed that the macroporous cryogels have been developed with 90-95% porosity. Particularly, the mechanical and biomaterial property of pure chitosan was improved by making copolymer with hyaluronic acid in different concentration. The MTT cell viability results demonstrated that the cryogels have no significant cytotoxicity effect on 3T3 fibroblast and SAOS-2 cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Hyaluronic acid in knee osteoarthritis: preliminary results using a four months administration schedule.

    PubMed

    Abate, Michele; Vanni, Daniele; Pantalone, Andrea; Salini, Vincenzo

    2017-02-01

    To evaluate the therapeutic trajectory of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid at high concentration (2%) performed at 4-month intervals. Subjects with knee osteoarthritis received, after a weekly injection of 32 mg/2 mL hyaluronic acid for 3 weeks, a single injection of 50 mg/2.5 mL hyaluronic acid (not cross-linked, molecular weight 800-1200 kDa) at 4-month interval (4, 8 and 12 months). Clinical assessment (visual analogic scale [VAS] for pain at rest and during activities, Lequesne Index [LI], Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and monthly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug consumption) was performed at baseline, and after 1, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 14 months. In the 15 knees treated, pain decreased (baseline vs. 14 months: VAS at rest, 3.7 ± 1.7 vs. 1 ± 0.7 [P < 0.000]; VAS activities, 6.2 ± 1.7 vs. 2.6 ± 1.3 [P < 0.000]) and function improved (baseline vs. 14 months: KOOS, 51.9 ± 15.3 vs. 70.2 ± 13.7 [P < 0.000]; LI, 10 ± 3.8 vs. 5.4 ± 2.4 [P < 0.000]) significantly. This schedule provides persistent positive results in terms of reduced pain and improved function, optimizing the protective properties of the hyaluronic acid used. © 2015 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

  17. Physiochemical properties and application of hyaluronic acid: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Salwowska, Natalia M; Bebenek, Katarzyna A; Żądło, Dominika A; Wcisło-Dziadecka, Dominika L

    2016-12-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a widely available, biocompatible, polysaccharide with distinguishing physiochemical properties which inspire its application throughout several fields of medicine. We aim to investigate the application of hyaluronic acid and its effectiveness throughout several fields of medicine, including several therapies administered and prescribed by general health practitioners. We conducted a systematic review on randomized controlled trials about the physiochemical properties of hyaluronic acid and its application through primary care. Studies included in this review were peer reviewed and met our inclusion criteria. Factors were clustered into the following: uses throughout several fields of medicine, physiochemical properties, bioavailability, tolerance, effectiveness, and adverse effects. Therapies with hyaluronic acid provided long-lasting, pain relieving, moisturizing, lubricating, and dermal filling effect. Tissue hydration, elasticity, and durability improved. Adjunct therapy with hyaluronic acid provides longer-lasting therapeutic effect when compared to the use of glucocorticosteroids and NSAIDs in osteoarthritic chronic diseases, is well-established in ophthalmology due to its lubricating properties for the corneal endothelium, and improves tissue hydration and cellular resistance to mechanical damage in aesthetic dermatology, and has marginal adverse effects. Several trials indicated its role in tumor markers, liver diseases, and in pharmaceuticals, but further research would be necessary to draw conclusive results in those fields. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  18. Is There a Difference in Intra-Articular Injections of Corticosteroids, Hyaluronate, or Placebo for Temporomandibular Osteoarthritis?

    PubMed

    Liu, Yan; Wu, Jiashun; Fei, Wei; Cen, Xiao; Xiong, Yi; Wang, Shasha; Tang, Yaling; Liang, Xinhua

    2018-03-01

    Corticosteroids are widely used for treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis (OA). This study investigated the effects of corticosteroids on TMJOA compared with placebo or hyaluronate. The authors designed and implemented a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the effects of intra-articular injection of corticosteroid, hyaluronate, or placebo for patients with TMJOA. The authors searched related randomized controlled studies electronically in multiple English- and Chinese-language electronic databases. The predictor variable was intra-articular injection with corticosteroid, hyaluronate, or placebo. Primary outcome variables were pain intensity and maximal mouth opening. Other variables included success rate and adverse events. Meta-analyses were performed with Rev Man 5.3. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that corticosteroid injections after arthrocentesis were superior to placebo in relieving pain as assessed with the visual analog scale (mean difference [MD], -0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.34 to -0.13; P = .02; I 2  = 0%) in the long-term, but was inferior in increasing maximal mouth opening (MD, -2.06; 95% CI, -2.76 to -1.36; P < .00001; I 2  = 28%). Although corticosteroid and hyaluronate injections without arthrocentesis decreased pain and improved maximal mouth opening, the corticosteroid group had a significantly lower success rate (odds ratio = 0.41; 95% CI, 0.17-1.00; P = .05; I 2  = 0%) than the hyaluronate group in the short term. Corticosteroid injections after arthrocentesis are recommended for patients with TMJOA to relieve joint pain rather than increase maximal mouth opening. Corticosteroid and hyaluronate have marked effectiveness on TMJOA; however, hyaluronate might be the better alternative to some extent. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Protein Expression Level of Skin Wrinkle-Related Factors in Hairless Mice Fed Hyaluronic Acid.

    PubMed

    Yun, Min-Kyu; Lee, Sung-Jin; Song, Hye-Jin; Yu, Heui-Jong; Rha, Chan Su; Kim, Dae-Ok; Choe, Soo-Young; Sohn, Johann

    2017-04-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the wrinkle improving effect of hyaluronic acid intakes. Wrinkles were induced by exposing the skin of hairless mice to ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation for 14 weeks. Hyaluronic acid was administered to the mice for 14 weeks including 4 weeks before experiments. Skin tissue was assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to determine protein expression of wrinkle-related markers. The group supplemented with high concentrations of hyaluronic acid appeared significantly better than control group for collagen, matrix metalloproteinase 1, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 assay. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and hyaluronic acid synthase 2 (HAS-2) were not shown to be significantly different. In conclusion, hyaluronic acid administration regulated expression levels of proteins associated with skin integrity, and improved the wrinkle level in skin subjected to UVB irradiation.

  20. Use of Intra-Articular Hyaluronic Acid in the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis in Clinical Practice

    PubMed Central

    Cooper, Cyrus; Rannou, François; Richette, Pascal; Bruyère, Olivier; Al-Daghri, Nasser; Altman, Roy D.; Brandi, Maria Luisa; Basset, Sabine Collaud; Herrero-Beaumont, Gabriel; Migliore, Alberto; Pavelka, Karel; Uebelhart, Daniel; Reginster, Jean-Yves

    2017-01-01

    This review emphasizes the safety profile of intra-articular hyaluronic acid treatment of knee osteoarthritis, as well as its moderate but real efficacy on symptoms, which is in the same range than other pharmacological modalities used in this indication. Effectiveness of intra-articular hyaluronic acid has also been highlighted based on ‘real-life’ data, together with the clinical benefit of systematic repeated treatment cycles, and the influence of the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid on treatment outcome. These aspects should be particularly helpful to clinicians when making personalized care decisions. PMID:28118523

  1. Immobilization of hyaluronic acid on plasma-sprayed porous titanium coatings for improving biological properties.

    PubMed

    Ao, Haiyong; Xie, Youtao; Qin, An; Ji, Heng; Yang, Shengbing; Huang, Liping; Zheng, Xuebin; Tang, Tingting

    2014-01-01

    In the present study, hyaluronic acid (HyA) was covalently immobilized onto titanium coatings to improve their biological properties. Diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to characterize the HyA-modified titanium coating. HyA-modified titanium coatings possess better cell-material interaction, and human mesenchymal stem cells present good adhesive morphologies on the surface of TC-AAH. The results of subsequent cellular evaluation showed that the immobilization of HyA on titanium coatings could improve hMSC attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. In vivo evaluation of implants in rabbit femur condyle defect model showed improvements of early osseointegration and bone-to-implant contact of TC-AAH. In conclusion, immobilization of HyA could improve biological properties of titanium coatings.

  2. Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection versus Hyaluronic acid (HA) injection alone in Patients with Grade III and IV Knee Osteoarthritis (OA): A Retrospective Study on Functional Outcome.

    PubMed

    Saturveithan, C; Premganesh, G; Fakhrizzaki, S; Mahathir, M; Karuna, K; Rauf, K; William, H; Akmal, H; Sivapathasundaram, N; Jaspreet, K

    2016-07-01

    Introduction: Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely utilized in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis whereas platelet rich plasma (PRP) enhances the regeneration of articular cartilage. This study analyses the efficacy of HA and PRP in grade III and IV knee osteoarthritis. Methodology: This is a cross sectional study with retrospective review of 64 patients (101 knees) which includes 56 knees injected with HA+ PRP, and 45 knees with HA only. Results: During the post six months International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation, HA+PRP group showed marked improvement of 24.33 compared to 12.15 in HA group. Decrement in visual analogue score (VAS) in HA+PRP was 1.9 compared to 0.8 in HA group. Conclusion: We propose intra-articular HA and PRP injections as an optional treatment modality in Grade III and IV knee osteoarthritis in terms of functional outcome and pain control for up to six months when arthroplasty is not an option.

  3. Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection versus Hyaluronic acid (HA) injection alone in Patients with Grade III and IV Knee Osteoarthritis (OA): A Retrospective Study on Functional Outcome

    PubMed Central

    Premganesh, G; Fakhrizzaki, S; Mahathir, M; Karuna, K; Rauf, K; William, H; Akmal, H; Sivapathasundaram, N; Jaspreet, K

    2016-01-01

    Introduction: Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely utilized in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis whereas platelet rich plasma (PRP) enhances the regeneration of articular cartilage. This study analyses the efficacy of HA and PRP in grade III and IV knee osteoarthritis. Methodology: This is a cross sectional study with retrospective review of 64 patients (101 knees) which includes 56 knees injected with HA+ PRP, and 45 knees with HA only. Results: During the post six months International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation, HA+PRP group showed marked improvement of 24.33 compared to 12.15 in HA group. Decrement in visual analogue score (VAS) in HA+PRP was 1.9 compared to 0.8 in HA group. Conclusion: We propose intra-articular HA and PRP injections as an optional treatment modality in Grade III and IV knee osteoarthritis in terms of functional outcome and pain control for up to six months when arthroplasty is not an option. PMID:28435559

  4. Hyaluronic acid concentration in liver diseases.

    PubMed

    Gudowska, Monika; Gruszewska, Ewa; Panasiuk, Anatol; Cylwik, Bogdan; Flisiak, Robert; Świderska, Magdalena; Szmitkowski, Maciej; Chrostek, Lech

    2016-11-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of liver diseases of different etiologies and clinical severity of liver cirrhosis on the serum level of hyaluronic acid. The results were compared with noninvasive markers of liver fibrosis: APRI, GAPRI, HAPRI, FIB-4 and Forn's index. Serum samples were obtained from 20 healthy volunteers and patients suffering from alcoholic cirrhosis (AC)-57 patients, non-alcoholic cirrhosis (NAC)-30 and toxic hepatitis (HT)-22. Cirrhotic patients were classified according to Child-Pugh score. Hyaluronic acid concentration was measured by the immunochemical method. Non-patented indicators were calculated using special formulas. The mean serum hyaluronic acid concentration was significantly higher in AC, NAC and HT group in comparison with the control group. There were significant differences in the serum hyaluronic acid levels between liver diseases, and in AC they were significantly higher than those in NAC and HT group. The serum hyaluronic acid level differs significantly due to the severity of cirrhosis and was the highest in Child-Pugh class C. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive values and the area under the ROC curve for hyaluronic acid and all non-patented algorithms were high and similar to each other. We conclude that the concentration of hyaluronic acid changes in liver diseases and is affected by the severity of liver cirrhosis. Serum hyaluronic acid should be considered as a good marker for noninvasive diagnosis of liver damage, but the combination of markers is more useful.

  5. Clinical effects of image-guided hyaluronate injections for the osteochondral lesions of ankle in sport active population.

    PubMed

    DI Gesù, Marco; Fusco, Augusto; Vetro, Angelo; Iosa, Marco; Mantia, Fabrizio; Iovane, Angelo; Mantia, Roberto

    2016-11-01

    Hyaluronic acid injections are effective as intra-articular treatment, but their use in the ankle has been hindered for the difficulty of execution in this area. Use of a guidance of musculo-skeleletal ultrasound could improve the success rate and the subsequent clinical outcome, for the ameliorating placement of the needle tip. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the short-term efficacy in terms of functional outcomes and pain of a image-guided intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections of post-traumatic osteochondral lesions (OLs) of the ankle. Thirty sport active patients (21 males; mean age 27.6±7.46) with a clinical and radiological diagnosis of post-traumatic ankle OLs at initial stage, received a course of three injections within a month. Patients were evaluated for pain (with Numerical Rating Scale, NRS) e function (Ankle-Hindfoot Scale, AHS, and range of motion, ROM) before every injection and ninety days after the last injection (T0-T3). Pain showed a significant and clinically relevant improvement during the period of treatment (P<0.001), even if pain was still presented at last follow-up assessment. Also for AHS e ROM, it was recorded a similar positive trend during time (P<0.001 for both measurements). Before intervention, pain and function resulted correlated (P<0.001), while at follow-up assessment these correlations were reduced, remaining only between pain at rest and plantar-flexion range. These results showed positive effects of the intra-articular hyaluronic acid for the osteochondral lesions, with a full recovery of the functional activity and a significant reduction of pain.

  6. Topically administered hyaluronic acid in the upper airway: A narrative review.

    PubMed

    Pignataro, Lorenzo; Marchisio, Paola; Ibba, Tullio; Torretta, Sara

    2018-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid plays a role in controlling inflammatory airway processes and mucociliary clearance, and it is also involved in tissue healing and remodelling. Some studies have tested the effectiveness of topically administered hyaluronic acid in patients with upper airway diseases with positive preliminary results. This article describes the use of topically administered hyaluronic acid in patients with otolaryngological disorders. Pertinent studies published between January 2000 and October 2016 were selected by means of a MEDLINE search using the following terms: 'hyaluronic acid' and 'otolaryngology', 'otitis', 'pharyngitis', 'tonsillitis', 'rhinitis', 'rhinosinusitis' and 'nose'. Twelve of the 19 initially identified papers were selected, corresponding to 902 patients as a whole. There is some evidence that topically administered hyaluronic acid is effective or moderately effective in different otolaryngological conditions, as it improves the global subjective and clinical status of patients with inflammation of the nasopharyngeal and oto-tubaric complex, those with rhinitis or rhinosinusitis and those who have undergone nasal and sinonasal surgery. However, these findings should be viewed cautiously as they are based on a limited number of studies, some of which were probably under-powered because of their small patient samples.

  7. Improved biocompatibility of poly (styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene) elastomer by a surface graft polymerization of hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiaomeng; Luan, Shifang; Shi, Hengchong; Yang, Huawei; Song, Lingjie; Jin, Jing; Yin, Jinghua; Stagnaro, Paola

    2013-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an important component of extracellular matrix (ECM) in many tissues, providing a hemocompatible and supportive environment for cell growth. In this study, glycidyl methacrylate-hyaluronic acid (GMHA) was first synthesized and verified by proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) spectroscopy. GMHA was then grafted to the surface of biomedical elastomer poly (styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene) (SEBS) via an UV-initiated polymerization, monitored by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The further improvement of biocompatibility of the GMHA-modified SEBS films was assessed by platelet adhesion experiments and in vitro response of murine osteoblastic cell line MC-3T3-E1 with the virgin SEBS surface as the reference. It showed that the surface modification with HA strongly resisted platelet adhesion whereas improved cell-substrate interactions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Adipose‑derived stem cells and hyaluronic acid based gel compatibility, studied in vitro.

    PubMed

    Guo, Jiayan; Guo, Shu; Wang, Yuxin; Yu, Yanqiu

    2017-10-01

    Minimally invasive aesthetic and cosmetic procedures have increased in popularity. Injectable dermal fillers provide soft tissue augmentation, improve facial rejuvenation and wrinkles, and correct tissue defects. To investigate the use of adipose‑derived stem cells integrated with a hyaluronic acid based gel as a dermal filler, the present study used cytotoxicity studies, proliferation studies, adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation, apoptosis assays and scanning electron microscopy. Although hyaluronic acid induced low levels of apoptosis in adipose‑derived stem cells, its significantly promoted proliferation of adipose‑derived stem cells. Hyaluronic acid demonstrates little toxicity against adipose‑derived stem cells. Adipose‑derived stem cells were able to differentiate into adipocytes and osteoblasts. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy revealed that adipose‑derived stem cells maintained intact structures on the surface of hyaluronic acid as well as in it, and demonstrated abundant cell attachments. The present study demonstrated the compatibility of adipose‑derived stem cells and hyaluronic acid based gels in vitro.

  9. Hyaluronic Acid: A Boon in Periodontal Therapy

    PubMed Central

    Dahiya, Parveen; Kamal, Reet

    2013-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring linear polysaccharide of the extracellular matrix of connective tissue, synovial fluid, and other tissues. Its use in the treatment of the inflammatory process is established in medical areas such as orthopedics, dermatology, and ophthalmology. The Pubmed/Medline database was searched for keywords “Hyaluronic acid and periodontal disease” and “Hyaluronic acid and gingivitis” which resulted in 89 and 22 articles respectively. Only highly relevant articles from electronic and manual search in English literature were selected for the present review article. In the field of dentistry, hyaluronic acid has shown anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects in the treatment of periodontal diseases. Due to its tissue healing properties, it could be used as an adjunct to mechanical therapy in the treatment of periodontitis. Further studies are required to determine the clinical efficacy of hyaluronic acid in healing of periodontal lesion. The aim of the present review, article is to discuss the role of hyaluronic acid in periodontal therapy. PMID:23814761

  10. Hyaluronate-binding proteins of murine brain.

    PubMed

    Marks, M S; Chi-Rosso, G; Toole, B P

    1990-01-01

    The distribution of hyaluronate-binding activity was determined in the soluble and membrane fractions derived from adult mouse brain by sonication in low-ionic-strength buffer. Approximately 60% of the total activity was recovered in the soluble fraction and 33% in membrane fractions. In both cases, the hyaluronate-binding activities were found to be of high affinity (KD = 10(-9) M), specific for hyaluronate, and glycoprotein in nature. Most of the hyaluronate-binding activity from the soluble fraction chromatographed in the void volume of Sepharose CL-4B and CL-6B. Approximately 50% of this activity was highly negatively charged, eluting from diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-cellulose in 0.5 M NaCl, and contained chondroitin sulfate chains. This latter material also reacted with antibodies raised against cartilage link protein and the core protein of cartilage proteoglycan. Thus, the binding and physical characteristics of this hyaluronate-binding activity are consistent with those of a chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan aggregate similar to that found in cartilage. A 500-fold purification of this proteoglycan-like, hyaluronate-binding material was achieved by wheat germ agglutinin affinity chromatography, molecular sieve chromatography on Sepharose CL-6B, and ion exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. Another class of hyaluronate-binding material (25-50% of that recovered) eluted from DEAE with 0.24 M NaCl; this material had the properties of a complex glycoprotein, did not contain chondroitin sulfate, and did not react with the antibodies against cartilage link protein and proteoglycan. Thus, adult mouse brain contains at least three different forms of hyaluronate-binding macromolecules. Two of these have properties similar to the link protein and proteoglycan of cartilage proteoglycan aggregates; the third is distinguishable from these entities.

  11. Carbon dioxide therapy and hyaluronic acid for cosmetic correction of the nasolabial folds.

    PubMed

    Nisi, Giuseppe; Cuomo, Roberto; Brandi, Cesare; Grimaldi, Luca; Sisti, Andrea; D'Aniello, Carlo

    2016-06-01

    The main application of hyaluronic acid filling, in esthetic medicine, is the augmentation of soft tissues. The carbon dioxide therapy, instead, improves quality and elasticity of the dermis and increases the oxygen release to the tissue through an enhancing of the Bohr's effect. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy, tolerability, and effect duration of hyaluronic acid fillers and the use of carbon dioxide therapy plus hyaluronic acid in the cosmetic correction of nasolabial folds. Forty healthy female patients received a blinded and randomized treatment on nasolabial folds (hyaluronic acid in group A and hyaluronic acid plus subcutaneous injections of carbon dioxide in group B) for cosmetic correction of the nasolabial folds. The results were evaluated by two blinded plastic surgeons after the implant (1 week, 4 and 6 months) using a 1-5 graduated scale (GAIS), and at the same time, each patient was asked to express her opinion about the cosmetic result. Any long-term adverse reaction was reported. The blinded evaluation at 4 and 6 months from the implant shows in all patients a maintenance of a good cosmetic result higher for the side treated with carbon dioxide therapy plus hyaluronic acid. At the control visit, 6 months after the treatment, the patients treated with hyaluronic acid plus carbon dioxide therapy maintain a satisfactory esthetic result while the nasolabial fold treated only with hyaluronic acid shows, in almost all patients, a come back to pretreatment appearance. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  12. Office-Based Intracordal Hyaluronate Injections Improve Quality of Life in Thoracic-Surgery-Related Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis.

    PubMed

    Fang, Tuan-Jen; Hsin, Li-Jen; Chung, Hsiu-Feng; Chiang, Hui-Chen; Li, Hsueh-Yu; Wong, Alice M K; Pei, Yu-Chen

    2015-10-01

    Thoracic-surgery-related unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) may cause severe morbidity and can cause profound functional impairment and psychosocial stress in patients with pre-existing thoracic diseases. In-office intracordal hyaluronate (HA) injections have recently been applied to improve voice and quality of life in patients with vocal incompetence, but their effect on thoracic-surgery-related UVFP remains inconclusive. We therefore conducted a prospective study to clarify the effect of early HA injection on voice and quality of life in patients with thoracic-surgery-related UVFP. Patients with UVFP within 3 months after thoracic surgery who received office-based HA injection were recruited. Quantitative laryngeal electromyography, videolaryngostroboscopy, voice-related life quality (voice outcome survey), laboratory voice analysis, and health-related quality of life (SF-36) were evaluated at baseline, and at 1 month postinjection. A total of 104 consecutive patients accepted office-based HA intracordal injection during the study period, 34 of whom were treated in relation to thoracic surgery and were eligible for inclusion. Voice-related life quality, voice laboratory analysis, and most generic quality of life domains were significantly improved at 1 month after in-office HA intracordal injection. No HA-related complications were reported. Single office-based HA intracordal injection is a safe and effective treatment for thoracic-surgery-related UVFP, resulting in immediate improvements in patient quality of life, voice quality, and swallowing ability.

  13. Age-related changes in cyclic phosphatidic acid-induced hyaluronic acid synthesis in human fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Sano, Katsura; Gotoh, Mari; Dodo, Kyoko; Tajima, Noriaki; Shimizu, Yoshibumi; Murakami-Murofushi, Kimiko

    2018-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a major component of the extracellular matrix, which is important for skin hydration. As aging brings skin dehydration, we aimed to clarify the mRNA expression of hyaluronic acid-related proteins in human skin fibroblasts from donors of various ages (range 0.7-69 years). Previously, we reported that cyclic phosphatidic acid (cPA), a unique phospholipid mediator, stimulated the expression of HAS2 and increased hyaluronic acid synthesis in human skin fibroblasts (donor age: 3 days). In this study, we measured the mRNA expression of hyaluronic acid-related proteins: hyaluronan synthase (HAS) 1-3, hyaluronidase-1, -2, and hyaluronic acid-binding protein (versican). In addition, we tested whether cPA could increase hyaluronic acid synthesis in skin fibroblasts derived from donors of various ages. The expression of HAS1, 3, hyaluronidase-1, and -2 did not change with aging. However, the mRNA expression of versican decreased with aging. Although it is thought that the amount of hyaluronic acid in the dermis decreases with aging, the mRNA expression of HAS2 was increased. But the amount of hyaluronic acid secreted by fibroblasts did not increase with aging. This suggests that the activity and/or protein expression of HAS2 decrease with aging. Furthermore, we observed that cPA caused the increase of hyaluronic acid synthesis at any age, and this effect was increased with aging. These results suggest that aging made the fibroblasts more sensitive to cPA treatment. Therefore, cPA represents a suitable candidate for the health maintenance and improvement of the skin by increasing the level of hyaluronic acid in the dermis.

  14. Dietary Hyaluronic Acid Migrates into the Skin of Rats

    PubMed Central

    Mitsugi, Koichi; Odanaka, Wataru; Seino, Satoshi; Masuda, Yasunobu

    2014-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a constituent of the skin and helps to maintain hydration. The oral intake of hyaluronic acid increases water in the horny layer as demonstrated by human trials, but in vivo kinetics has not been shown. This study confirmed the absorption, migration, and excretion of 14C-labeled hyaluronic acid (14C-hyaluronic acid). 14C-hyaluronic acid was orally or intravenously administered to male SD rats aged 7 to 8 weeks. Plasma radioactivity after oral administration showed the highest level 8 hours after administration, and orally administered 14C-hyaluronic acid was found in the blood. Approximately 90% of 14C-hyaluronic acid was absorbed from the digestive tract and used as an energy source or a structural constituent of tissues based on tests of the urine, feces, expired air, and cadaver up to 168 hours (one week) after administration. The autoradiographic results suggested that radioactivity was distributed systematically and then reduced over time. The radioactivity was higher in the skin than in the blood at 24 and 96 hours after administration. The results show the possibility that orally administered hyaluronic acid migrated into the skin. No excessive accumulation was observed and more than 90% of the hyaluronic acid was excreted in expired air or urine. PMID:25383371

  15. Dietary hyaluronic acid migrates into the skin of rats.

    PubMed

    Oe, Mariko; Mitsugi, Koichi; Odanaka, Wataru; Yoshida, Hideto; Matsuoka, Ryosuke; Seino, Satoshi; Kanemitsu, Tomoyuki; Masuda, Yasunobu

    2014-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a constituent of the skin and helps to maintain hydration. The oral intake of hyaluronic acid increases water in the horny layer as demonstrated by human trials, but in vivo kinetics has not been shown. This study confirmed the absorption, migration, and excretion of (14)C-labeled hyaluronic acid ((14)C-hyaluronic acid). (14)C-hyaluronic acid was orally or intravenously administered to male SD rats aged 7 to 8 weeks. Plasma radioactivity after oral administration showed the highest level 8 hours after administration, and orally administered (14)C-hyaluronic acid was found in the blood. Approximately 90% of (14)C-hyaluronic acid was absorbed from the digestive tract and used as an energy source or a structural constituent of tissues based on tests of the urine, feces, expired air, and cadaver up to 168 hours (one week) after administration. The autoradiographic results suggested that radioactivity was distributed systematically and then reduced over time. The radioactivity was higher in the skin than in the blood at 24 and 96 hours after administration. The results show the possibility that orally administered hyaluronic acid migrated into the skin. No excessive accumulation was observed and more than 90% of the hyaluronic acid was excreted in expired air or urine.

  16. The effect of intra-articular hyaluronate and tramadol injection on patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder.

    PubMed

    Kim, Kyung-Hee; Suh, Jung-Woo; Oh, Ki Young

    2017-08-03

    Local administration of opioids causes effective analgesia without adverse effects related to the central nervous system. After the beneficial demonstration of peripheral opioid receptors in joint synovia, intra-articular opioid injections were used for pain treatment. Clinical studies have reported the safety and efficacy of hyaluronate injection in the shoulder joint of patients with osteoarthritis, periarthritis, rotator cuff tears, and adhesive capsulitis. To estimate the efficacy of intra-articular hyaluronate and tramadol injection for adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder compared with that of intra-articular hyaluronate injection alone. Thirty patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder were randomized to the hyaluronate group (n= 16) or the tramadol group (n= 14). Hyaluronate group members were administered five weekly intra-articular hyaluronate injections; tramadol group members were administered three weekly intra-articular hyaluronate and tramadol injections and then two weekly intra-articular injections of hyaluronate. Visual Analog Scale (VAS), passive range of motion (PROM) of the shoulder joint, and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scores were assessed at baseline and weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 after the initial injection. A significant improvement was observed in VAS, PROM, and SPADI scores between time points in both groups. In comparison in both groups at weeks 1 and 2 after the initial injection the VAS scores of the tramadol group were significantly lower than those of the hyaluronate group. Intra-articular hyaluronate with tramadol showed more rapid and strong analgesic effects than intra-articular hyaluronate alone and did not induce any adverse effects.

  17. Is the addition of a polyol to hyaluronic acid a significant advance in the treatment of osteoarthritis?

    PubMed

    Conrozier, Thierry

    2017-07-10

    Viscosupplementation with intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid is recommended as a second line treatment for knee OA, after failure of non-pharmacological modalities and usual pain killers. Nevertheless there is still controversies regarding clinical relevance of its effects. Research is looking at the best means to improve the performance of viscosupplementation in order to obtain a faster, more sustainable and more marked effect. Antioxidants have been assessed in combination with hyaluronic acid because the injected hyaluronate is rapidly degraded by the reactive oxygen species present in large amounts in the OA synovial fluid, limiting its residence time into the joint. Sorbitol and mannitol which have intrinsic free radical scavenger properties have been the most studied antioxidants. Sodium hyaluronate and polyols develop together a complex based on a dense network of hydrogen bonds that do not modify the visco-elsatic properties of hyaluronic acid. The oxygen free radicals neutralization by mannitol has been proven to delay the degradation of both linear and cross-linked HA in several in vitro models of oxidative stress. The antioxidant effect of these polyols may also play a role in accelerate onset of analgesia, as demonstrated in a double blind controlled trial comparing a mannitol-modified viscosupplement to regular hyaluronic acid. The addition of mannitol and sorbitol to hyaluronic acid does not alter the safety and local tolerability. In summary, adding a polyol to hyaluronic acid may improve the effects of viscosupplementation, by reducing the rate of degradation of HA that leads to an earlier effect on pain relief without increasing the risk of adverse effect. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  18. [Lidocaine-containing hyaluronic acid filler on a CPM® basis for lip augmentation : Experience from clinical practice].

    PubMed

    Fischer, T; Sattler, G; Gauglitz, G

    2016-06-01

    Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers is an established procedure. As monophasic polydensified hyaluronic acid products with variable density CPM-HAL1 (Belotero® Balance Lidocaine) and CPM-HAL2 (Belotero® Intense Lidocaine) are qualified for beautification and particularly natural-looking rejuvenation, respectively. Assessment of handling and outcome of lip augmentation using the lidocaine-containing hyaluronic acid fillers CPM-HAL1 and CPM-HAL2. Data from patients who received lip augmentation by means of bautification and/or rejuvenation using CPM-HAL1 and/or CPM-HAL2 were documented. Observation period was 4 months, with assessment of natural outcome, evenness, handling, fluidity, distribution, malleability, tolerability, as well as patient satisfaction and pain. In total, 146 patients from 21 German centres participated. Physicians rated natural outcome and evenness as good or very good for > 95 % of patients. Handling, fluidity, distribution and malleability were assessed for both fillers as good or very good in > 91 % of patients. At every evaluation point, more than 93 % of patients were very or very much satisfied with the product. A total of 125 patients (85.6 %) experienced transient injection-related side effects. Pain intensity during the procedure was mild (2.72 ± 1.72 on the 0-10 pain assessment scale) and abated markedly within 30 min (0.42 ± 0.57). Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers produced a long-term cosmetic result. Due to the lidocaine content, procedural pain was low and transient. Accordingly, a high degree of patient satisfaction was achieved that was maintained throughout the observation period.

  19. Hyaluron Filler Containing Lidocaine on a CPM Basis for Lip Augmentation: Reports from Practical Experience.

    PubMed

    Fischer, Tanja C; Sattler, Gerhard; Gauglitz, Gerd G

    2016-06-01

    Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers is established. As monophasic polydensified hyaluronic acid products with variable density, CPM-HAL1 (Belotero Balance Lidocaine, Merz Aesthetics, Raleigh, NC) and CPM-HAL2 (Belotero Intense Lidocaine, Merz Aesthetics, Raleigh, NC) are qualified for beautification and particularly natural-looking rejuvenation, respectively. The aim of this article was to assess the handling and outcome of lip augmentation using the lidocaine-containing hyaluronic acid fillers, CPM-HAL1 and CPM-HAL2. Data were documented from patients who received lip augmentation by means of beautification and/or rejuvenation using CPM-HAL1 and/or CPM-HAL2. Observation period was 4 months, with assessment of natural outcome, evenness, distribution, fluidity, handling, malleability, tolerability, as well as patient satisfaction and pain. A total of 146 patients from 21 German centers participated. Physicians rated natural outcome and evenness as good or very good for more than 95% of patients. Distribution, fluidity, handling, and malleability were assessed for both fillers as good or very good in more than 91% of patients. At every evaluation point, more than 93% of patients were very or very much satisfied with the product. A total of 125 patients (85.6%) experienced transient injection-related side effects. Pain intensity during the procedure was mild (2.72 ± 1.72 on the 0-10 pain assessment scale) and abated markedly within 30 minutes (0.42 ± 0.57). Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers produced a long-term cosmetic result. Due to the lidocaine content, procedural pain was low and transient. Accordingly, a high degree of patient satisfaction was achieved that was maintained throughout the observation period. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

  20. Knee Viscosupplementation: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis between Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid in a Single Injection versus Five Injections of Standard Hyaluronic Acid.

    PubMed

    Estades-Rubio, Francisco J; Reyes-Martín, Alvaro; Morales-Marcos, Victor; García-Piriz, Mercedes; García-Vera, Juan J; Perán, Macarena; Marchal, Juan A; Montañez-Heredia, Elvira

    2017-03-17

    Given the wide difference in price per vial between various presentations of hyaluronic acid, this study seeks to compare the effectiveness and treatment cost of stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) in a single injection with standard preparations of hyaluronic acid (HA) in five injections in osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Fifty-four patients with knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence Grade II and III) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain score greater than 7, with a homogeneous distribution of age, sex, BMI, and duration of disease, were included in this study. Patients were randomized into two groups: Group I was treated with NASHA (Durolane ® ) and Group II with HA (Go-ON ® ). Patient's evolution was followed up at the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 8th, 12th, and 26th week after treatment. A statistically significant improvement in WOMAC score was observed for patients treated with NASHA versus those who received HA at Week 26. In addition, the need for analgesia was significantly reduced at Week 26 in the NASHA-treated group. Finally, the economic analysis showed an increased cost of overall treatment with HA injections. Our data support the use of the NASHA class of products in the treatment of knee OA.

  1. Combination therapy with diquafosol tetrasodium and sodium hyaluronate in patients with dry eye after laser in situ keratomileusis.

    PubMed

    Toda, Ikuko; Ide, Takeshi; Fukumoto, Teruki; Ichihashi, Yoshiyuki; Tsubota, Kazuo

    2014-03-01

    To evaluate the possible advantages of combination therapy with diquafosol tetrasodium and sodium hyaluronate for dry eye after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Prospective randomized comparative trial. A total of 206 eyes of 105 patients who underwent LASIK were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups according to the postoperative treatment: artificial tears, sodium hyaluronate, diquafosol tetrasodium, and a combination of hyaluronate and diquafosol. Questionnaire responses reflecting subjective dry eye symptoms, uncorrected and corrected visual acuity, functional visual acuity, manifest refraction, tear break-up time, fluorescein corneal staining, Schirmer test, and corneal sensitivity were examined before and 1 week and 1 month after LASIK. Distance uncorrected visual acuity was significantly better in the combination group than in the hyaluronate group 1 week and 1 month after LASIK. Near uncorrected visual acuity was significantly better in the combination group than in the artificial tear and diquafosol groups 1 week and 1 month after LASIK. Distance functional visual acuity improved significantly only in the combination group 1 month after LASIK. The Schirmer value in the combination group was significantly higher than that in the hyaluronate group at 1 month after LASIK. Subjective dry eye symptoms in the combination group improved significantly compared with those in the other groups 1 week after surgery. Our results suggest that hyaluronate and diquafosol combination therapy is beneficial for early stabilization of visual performance and improvement of subjective dry eye symptoms in patients after LASIK. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Prospective study of polydimethylsiloxane vs dextranomer/hyaluronic acid injection for treatment of vesicoureteral reflux.

    PubMed

    Moore, Katherine; Bolduc, Stéphane

    2014-12-01

    Endoscopic injection of a bulking agent is becoming a first-line treatment for low grade vesicoureteral reflux. We prospectively compared the efficacy of 2 such products commercially available in Canada. A total of 275 patients with documented grade I to V vesicoureteral reflux were prospectively enrolled in a comparative study between April 2005 and February 2011 to be randomly treated endoscopically with either polydimethylsiloxane (Macroplastique®) or dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (Deflux®). Of the ureters 202 were treated with polydimethylsiloxane and 197 with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer. Patients were followed with voiding cystourethrography at 3 months and renal ultrasonography at 3 months and at 1 year. Median followup was 4.3 years. The primary outcome was surgical success (resolution vs nonresolution), and secondary outcomes included occurrence of adverse events. Vesicoureteral reflux was fully corrected in 182 of 202 ureters (90%) treated with polydimethylsiloxane, compared to 159 of 197 (81%) treated with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (p <0.05). Obstruction was found in 5 ureters. Univariate and multivariate analyses did not allow identification of any characteristics that could explain the significant difference in the success rates except for the type of product used. We present the largest known prospective evaluation comparing 2 bulking agents for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux. Endoscopic injection of polydimethylsiloxane resulted in a better success rate than dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer. The rate of resolution obtained with the latter is lower than those previously published due to the inclusion of high grade reflux. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. The evolving role of hyaluronic acid fillers for facial volume restoration and contouring: a Canadian overview

    PubMed Central

    Muhn, Channy; Rosen, Nathan; Solish, Nowell; Bertucci, Vince; Lupin, Mark; Dansereau, Alain; Weksberg, Fred; Remington, B Kent; Swift, Arthur

    2012-01-01

    Recent advancements, including more versatile facial fillers, refined injection techniques and the adoption of a global facial approach, have contributed to improved patient outcome and increased patient satisfaction. Nine Canadian specialists (eight dermatologists, one plastic surgeon) collaborated to develop an overview on volume restoration and contouring based on published literature and their collective clinical experience. The specialists concurred that optimal results in volume restoration and contouring depend on correcting deficiencies at various layers of the facial envelope. This includes creating a foundation for deep structural support in the supraperiosteal or submuscular plane; volume repletion of subcutaneous fat compartments; and the reestablishment of dermal and subdermal support to minimize cutaneous rhytids, grooves and furrows. It was also agreed that volume restoration and contouring using a global facial approach is essential to create a natural, youthful appearance in facial aesthetics. A comprehensive non-surgical approach should therefore incorporate combining fillers such as high-viscosity, low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (LMWHA) for structural support and hyaluronic acid (HA) for lines, grooves and furrows with neuromodulators, lasers and energy devices. PMID:23071398

  4. Biocompatibility and antifibrotic effect of UV-cross-linked hyaluronate as a release-system for tranilast after trabeculectomy in a rabbit model--a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Spitzer, Martin S; Sat, Macarena; Schramm, Charlotte; Schnichels, Sven; Schultheiss, Maximilian; Yoeruek, Efdal; Dzhelebov, Dimitar; Szurman, Peter

    2012-06-01

    To analyze the release kinetics and the clinical and histological effects of UV-cross-linked hyaluronic acid as a release-system for the transforming growth factor β-2 antagonist tranilast with anti-phlogistic properties on intraocular pressure after trabeculectomy in an aggressive scarring animal model. Hyaluronate acid was UV-cross linked and loaded with tranilast. The release of tranilast into a buffered salt solution was assessed spectrophotometrically. Glaucoma filtration surgery, similar to that performed in clinical practice, was performed on chinchilla rabbits. The rabbits were divided in 3 groups. (Group A: trabeculectomy alone, group B: trabeculectomy with a cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel preparation and group C: trabeculectomy with cross-linked hyaluronic gel preparation mixed with tranilast). Antifibrotic efficacy was established by clinical response and histologic examination. The cross-linked gels released tranilast for up to 26 h. The release plotted as a function of the square root of time was consistent with a largely diffusion-controlled release system. Both the gel preparation alone and the gel preparation mixed with tranilast were well tolerated in vivo. No adverse effects such as inflammation, corneal toxicity or blurring of the optical media were observed. The intraocular pressure reached preoperative levels within 9 days after surgery in control animals and group B, but remained significantly reduced (p = 0.00016) in the group with tranilast until day 22. The data of this pilot study suggest that the intraoperative application of UV-crossed linked hyaluronic acid used as a slow release system for tranilast may improve the surgical outcome of glaucoma filtration surgery.

  5. Streptococcus pneumoniae Can Utilize Multiple Sources of Hyaluronic Acid for Growth

    PubMed Central

    Marion, Carolyn; Stewart, Jason M.; Tazi, Mia F.; Burnaugh, Amanda M.; Linke, Caroline M.; Woodiga, Shireen A.

    2012-01-01

    The mechanisms by which Streptococcus pneumoniae obtains carbohydrates for growth during airway colonization remain to be elucidated. The low concentration of free carbohydrates in the normal human airway suggests that pneumococci must utilize complex glycan structures for growth. The glycosaminoglycan hyaluronic acid is present on the apical surface of airway epithelial cells. As pneumococci express a hyaluronate lyase (Hyl) that cleaves hyaluronic acid into disaccharides, we hypothesized that during colonization pneumococci utilize the released carbohydrates for growth. Hyaluronic acid supported significant pneumococcal growth in an hyl-dependent manner. A phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system (PTS) and an unsaturated glucuronyl hydrolase (Ugl) encoded downstream of hyl are also essential for growth on hyaluronic acid. This genomic arrangement is present in several other organisms, suggesting conservation of the utilization mechanism between species. In vivo experiments support the hypothesis that S. pneumoniae utilizes hyaluronic acid as a carbon source during colonization. We also demonstrate that pneumococci can utilize the hyaluronic acid capsule of other bacterial species for growth, suggesting an alternative carbohydrate source for pneumococcal growth. Together, these data support a novel function for pneumococcal degradation of hyaluronic acid in vivo and provide mechanistic details of growth on this glycosaminoglycan. PMID:22311922

  6. Surface modification of model hydrogel contact lenses with hyaluronic acid via thiol-ene "click" chemistry for enhancing surface characteristics.

    PubMed

    Korogiannaki, Myrto; Zhang, Jianfeng; Sheardown, Heather

    2017-10-01

    Discontinuation of contact lens wear as a result of ocular dryness and discomfort is extremely common; as many as 26% of contact lens wearers discontinue use within the first year. While patients are generally satisfied with conventional hydrogel lenses, improving on-eye comfort continues to remain a goal. Surface modification with a biomimetic, ocular friendly hydrophilic layer of a wetting agent is hypothesized to improve the interfacial interactions of the contact lens with the ocular surface. In this work, the synthesis and characterization of poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) surfaces grafted with a hydrophilic layer of hyaluronic acid are described. The immobilization reaction involved the covalent attachment of thiolated hyaluronic acid (20 kDa) on acrylated poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) via nucleophile-initiated Michael addition thiol-ene "click" chemistry. The surface chemistry of the modified surfaces was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The appearance of N (1s) and S (2p) peaks on the low resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra confirmed successful immobilization of hyaluronic acid. Grafting hyaluronic acid to the poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) surfaces decreased the contact angle, the dehydration rate, and the amount of nonspecific sorption of lysozyme and albumin in comparison to pristine hydrogel materials, suggesting the development of more wettable surfaces with improved water-retentive and antifouling properties, while maintaining optical transparency (>92%). In vitro testing also showed excellent viability of human corneal epithelial cells with the hyaluronic acid-grafted poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) surfaces. Hence, surface modification with hyaluronic acid via thiol-ene "click" chemistry could be useful in improving contact lens surface properties, potentially alleviating symptoms of contact lens related dryness and discomfort during

  7. Evaluation of gelatin-hyaluronic acid composite hydrogels for accelerating wound healing.

    PubMed

    Wu, Song; Deng, Liang; Hsia, Hanson; Xu, Kai; He, Yu; Huang, Qiangru; Peng, Yi; Zhou, Zhihua; Peng, Cheng

    2017-05-01

    Excellent wound dressings maintain a warm and moist environment, thus accelerating wound healing. In this study, we cross-linked gelatin and hyaluronic acid with ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride in different ratios (gelatin/hyaluronic acid = 8:2, gelatin/hyaluronic acid = 5:5, gelatin/hyaluronic acid = 2:8), and explored the effects and mechanisms of gelatinhyaluronic acid hydrogels on wound healing. This was done by examining dressing properties, such as fluid uptake ability, water vapor transmission rate, and the rate of water evaporation. We further verified biological function by using in vitro and in vivo wound models. The hydrogels display appropriate fluid uptake ability and good water vapor transmission rate and rate of water evaporation all of which can provide an adequate moisture environment for wound healing. Cell cytotoxicity and proliferation tests show that the hydrogels have no cytotoxicity, furthermore, gelatin/hyaluronic acid = 8:2 hydrogels have the potential to promote cell proliferation. Animal wound models demonstrate that the hydrogels can effectively promote wound healing in vivo, in particular, the gelatin/hyaluronic acid = 8:2 group which promoted the most rapid healing. Accordingly, gelatin-hyaluronic acid dressings, especially the gelatin/hyaluronic acid = 8:2 hydrogels, have a promising outlook for clinical applications in wound healing.

  8. Optimization of hyaluronic acid production and its cytotoxicity and degradability characteristics.

    PubMed

    Gedikli, Serap; Güngör, Gökhan; Toptaş, Yağmur; Sezgin, Dilber Ece; Demirbilek, Murat; Yazıhan, Nuray; Aytar Çelik, Pınar; Denkbaş, Emir Baki; Bütün, Vural; Çabuk, Ahmet

    2018-06-14

    In the present study, culture conditions of Streptococcus equi was optimized through Box-Behnken experimental design for hyaluronic acid production. About 0.87 gL -1 of hyaluronic acid was produced under the determined conditions and optimal conditions were found as 38.42 °C, 24 hr and 250 rpm. The validity and practicability of this statistical optimization strategy were confirmed relation between predicted and experimental values. The hyaluronic acid obtained under optimal conditions was characterized. The effects of different conditions such as ultraviolet light, temperature and enzymatic degradation on hyaluronic acid produced under optimal conditions were determined. 118 °C for 32 min of autoclaved HA sample included 63.09 µg mL -1 of d-glucuronic acid, which is about two-fold of enzymatic effect. Cytotoxicity of hyaluronic acid on human dermal cells (HUVEC, HaCaT), L929 and THP-1 cells was studied. In vitro effect on pro or anti-inflammatory cytokine release of THP-1 cells was determined. Although it varies depending on the concentration, cytotoxicity of hyaluronic acid is between 5 and 30%. However, it varies depending on the concentration of hyaluronic acid, TNF-α release was not much increased compared to control study. Consequently, purification procedure is necessary to develop and it is worth developing the bacterial hyaluronic acid.

  9. A Randomized Clinical Trial of Comparing Monophasic Monodensified and Biphasic Nonanimal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers in Treatment of Asian Nasolabial Folds.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Shuang-Bai; Xie, Yun; Chiang, Cheng-An; Liu, Kai; Li, Qing-Feng

    2016-09-01

    Cross-linked hyaluronic acids (HAs) with varying characteristics and formulations are available. Despite the popularity of HA, limited studies compared the effectiveness of monophasic monodensified hyaluronic acid (MMHA) and biphasic nonanimal stabilized hyaluronic acid (BHA) products in correcting nasolabial folds (NLFs) in the Asian population. This double-blinded, randomized research aimed at evaluating the outcomes of MMHA and BHA products in treating Asian NLFs. Subjects aged between 18 and 65 years with moderate-to-severe NLFs were randomized to receive MMHA or BHA treatment. A touch-up treatment with the same product was performed at the 4-week follow-up, if needed. The effectiveness was evaluated for 24 weeks by masked investigators. All adverse events were recorded for safety evaluation. Twenty-five subjects in the MMHA Group and twenty-four subjects in the BHA Group finished 24-week follow-up. Results showed that subjects from both groups obtained satisfactory outcome in NLF correction. A lower amount of MMHA was required to achieve a similar result as that of BHA (p < .01). Both HA products maintained the effectiveness at the end of the 24-week follow-up. Both MMHA and BHA are effective for correcting NLF in Asian patients, producing satisfactory results. Monophasic monodensified hyaluronic acid provides similar satisfaction to BHA while requiring less injection volume.

  10. Preliminary study of highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based combination therapy for management of knee osteoarthritis-related pain

    PubMed Central

    Palmieri, Beniamino; Rottigni, Valentina; Iannitti, Tommaso

    2013-01-01

    Background Hyaluronic acid has been extensively used for treatment of knee osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to act as a synovial lubricant. Furthermore, it has found application in combination with other drugs in the dermatological field and in pre-clinical studies in animal models of osteoarthritis. Experimental evidence suggests that a combination of this macromolecule with other drugs may act as a slow-release depot. However, to date, to the best of our knowledge, no one has tested local intra-articular delivery of highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid combined with bisphosphonate or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for management of knee osteoarthritis pain in the clinical setting. The aim of the present randomized double-blind study was to investigate, for the first time, the effect of a highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid, Variofill®, alone or in combination with diclofenac sodium or sodium clodronate, for management of bilateral knee osteoarthritis-related pain. Methods Sixty-two patients with symptomatic bilateral medial tibiofemoral knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence grade II and III) and pain in both knees corresponding to a daily visual analog scale (VAS) score ≥ 30 in the month before the beginning of the study were included in this investigation. Patients were divided into three groups: group 1, treated with an injection of hyaluronic acid alone (66 mg) into each knee; group 2, treated with an injection of hyaluronic acid (49.5 mg) plus diclofenac sodium (5 mg) into each knee; group 3, treated with an injection of hyaluronic acid (49.5 mg) plus sodium clodronate (5 mg) into each knee. Patients also underwent blood tests for measurement of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) immediately before and at 6-month follow-up. Results Hyaluronic acid alone and in combination with sodium clodronate or diclofenac sodium produced a significant improvement in mean VAS pain score at 3 and

  11. A blanching technique for intradermal injection of the hyaluronic acid Belotero.

    PubMed

    Micheels, Patrick; Sarazin, Didier; Besse, Stéphanie; Sundaram, Hema; Flynn, Timothy C

    2013-10-01

    With the proliferation of dermal fillers in the aesthetic workplace have come instructions from various manufacturers regarding dermal placement. Determination of injection needle location in the dermis has in large part been based on physician expertise, product and needle familiarity, and patient-specific skin characteristics. An understanding of the precise depth of dermal structures may help practitioners improve injection specificity. Unlike other dermal fillers that suggest intradermal and deep dermal injection planes, a new hyaluronic acid with a cohesive polydensified matrix may be more appropriate for the superficial dermis because of its structure and its high degree of integration into the dermis. To that end, the authors designed a small study to quantify the depth of the superficial dermis by means of ultrasound and histology. Using ultrasound resources, the authors determined the depths of the epidermis, the dermis, and the reticular dermis in the buttocks of six patients; the authors then extrapolated the depth of the superficial reticular dermis. Histologic studies of two of the patients showed full integration of the product in the reticular dermis. Following determination of injection depths and filler integration, the authors describe a technique ("blanching") for injection of the cohesive polydensified matrix hyaluronic acid into the superficial dermis. At this time, blanching is appropriate only for injection of the cohesive polydensified matrix hyaluronic acid known as Belotero Balance in the United States, although it may have applications for other hyaluronic acid products outside of the United States.

  12. [PREPARATION AND BIOCOMPATIBILITY OF IN SITU CROSSLINKING HYALURONIC ACID HYDROGEL].

    PubMed

    Liang, Jiabi; Li, Jun; Wang, Ting; Liang, Yuhong; Zou, Xuenong; Zhou, Guangqian; Zhou, Zhiyu

    2016-06-08

    To fabricate in situ crosslinking hyaluronic acid hydrogel and evaluate its biocompatibility in vitro. The acrylic acid chloride and polyethylene glycol were added to prepare crosslinking agent polyethylene glycol acrylate (PEGDA), and the molecular structure of PEGDA was analyzed by Flourier transformation infrared spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Hyaluronic acid hydrogel was chemically modified to prepare hyaluronic acid thiolation (HA-SH). And the degree of HA-SH was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by Ellman method. HA-SH solution in concentrations ( W/V ) of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% and PEGDA solution in concentrations ( W/V ) of 2%, 4%, and 6% were prepared with PBS. The two solutions were mixed in different ratios, and in situ crosslinking hyaluronic acid hydrogel was obtained; the crosslinking time was recorded. The cellular toxicity of in situ crosslinking hyaluronic acid hydrogel (1.5% HA-SH and 4% PEGDA mixed) was tested by L929 cells. Meanwhile, the biocompatibility of hydrogel was tested by co-cultured with human bone mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs). Flourier transformation infrared spectroscopy showed that most hydroxyl groups were replaced by acrylate groups; 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed 3 characteristic peaks of hydrogen representing acrylate and olefinic bond at 5-7 ppm. The thiolation yield of HA-SH was 65.4%. In situ crosslinking time of hyaluronic acid hydrogel was 2 to 70 minutes in the PEGDA concentrations of 2%-6% and HA-SH concentrations of 0.5%-1.5%. The hyaluronic acid hydrogel appeared to be transparent. The toxicity grade of leaching solution of hydrogel was grade 1. hBMSCs grew well and distributed evenly in hydrogel with a very high viability. In situ crosslinking hyaluronic acid hydrogel has low cytotoxicity, good biocompatibility, and controllable crosslinking time, so it could be used as a potential tissue engineered scaffold or repairing material for tissue regeneration.

  13. 3D composites based on the blends of chitosan and collagen with the addition of hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Sionkowska, Alina; Kaczmarek, Beata; Lewandowska, Katarzyna; Grabska, Sylwia; Pokrywczyńska, Marta; Kloskowski, Tomasz; Drewa, Tomasz

    2016-08-01

    3D porous composites based on blends of chitosan, collagen and hyaluronic acid were obtained through the lyophilization process. Mechanical properties, swelling behavior and thermal stability of the blends were studied. Moreover, SEM images were taken and the structure of the blends was studied. Biological properties of the materials obtained were investigated by analyzing of proliferation rate of fibroblast cells incubated with biomaterial extract using MTT assay (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide). The results showed that the properties of 3D composites based on the blends of chitosan and collagen were altered after the addition 1%, 2% and 5% of hyaluronic acid. Mechanical properties and thermal stability of chitosan/collagen blends were improved in the presence of hyaluronic acid in the composite. New 3D materials based on the blends of chitosan, collagen and hyaluronic acid were non-toxic and did not significantly affect cell morphology. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Optimal conjugation of catechol group onto hyaluronic acid in coronary stent substrate coating for the prevention of restenosis.

    PubMed

    Lih, Eugene; Choi, Seul Gi; Ahn, Dong June; Joung, Yoon Ki; Han, Dong Keun

    2016-01-01

    Although endovascular stenting has been used as an interventional therapy to treat cardio- and cerebro-vascular diseases, it is associated with recurrent vascular diseases following stent thrombosis and in-stent restenosis. In this study, a metallic stent was coated with dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid with different ratios of catechol group to improve hemocompatibility and re-endothelialization. Especially, we were interested in how much amount of catechol group is appropriate for the above-mentioned purposes. Therefore, a series of dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid conjugates with different ratios of catechol group were synthesized via a carbodiimide coupling reaction. Dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid conjugates were characterized with 1 H-nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the amount of catechol group in dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid was measured by ultraviolet spectrometer. Co-Cr substrates were polished and coated with various dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid conjugates under pH 8.5. Dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid amounts on the substrate were quantified by micro-bicinchoninic acid assay. Surface characteristics of dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic-acid-coated Co-Cr were evaluated by water contact angle, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The hemocompatibility of the surface-modified substrates was assessed by protein adsorption and platelet adhesion tests. Adhesion and activation of platelets were confirmed with scanning electron microscopy and lactate dehydrogenase assay. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were cultured on the substrates, and the viability, adhesion, and proliferation were investigated through cell counting kit-8 assay and fluorescent images. Obtained results demonstrated that optimal amounts of catechol group (100 µmol) in the dopamine-conjugated hyaluronic acid existed in terms of various properties such as hemocompatibility and cellular responses.

  15. Long-Term Outcomes of Using Hyaluronic Acid-Carboxymethylcellulose Adhesion Barrier Film on the Neurovascular Bundle.

    PubMed

    Patel, Rutveej; Modi, Parth K; Elsamra, Sammy E; Kim, Isaac Yi

    2016-06-01

    We hypothesize that the use of hyaluronic acid-carboxymethylcellulose (HACM) adhesion barrier at the neurovascular bundle may hasten the return of erectile function after robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy. A retrospective review identified 462 consecutive patients who underwent a nerve-sparing prostatectomy between 2009 and 2012. The first 246 patients were administered the barrier film, while the next 216 patients, the control group, did not receive HACM. Postoperative erectile function and oncologic outcomes were compared. Independent t-test and Kaplan-Meier analysis were conducted, p < 0.05 was considered significant. The two groups were well matched, without significant differences in age, weight, operative time, prostate size, preoperative prostate-specific antigen, sexual health inventory for men (SHIM), or AUA symptom scores. The mean SHIM was significantly higher for the experimental group at 6 months (6.39 vs 4.75, p = 0.008), 9 months (7.32 vs 5.44, p = 0.006), 1 year (8.52 vs 6.90, p = 0.049), and 18 months (10.01 vs 7.60, p = 0.018). This effect was not noted beyond 18 months. A subgroup analysis of patients with initial SHIM scores 22 or greater demonstrated a higher rate of return to the preoperative SHIM score for the barrier film group, 23% vs 12% (p = 0.046). There was no significant difference in biochemical recurrence between groups, with a median follow-up duration of 18 months. HACM application at the neurovascular bundle during prostatectomy may decrease the time to return of erectile function, with improved SHIM at 6 to 18 months after surgery. This effect is more pronounced in patients with better baseline erectile function. There is no significant effect on biochemical recurrence.

  16. Hyaluronic acid in dermatomyositis and polymyositis: relationship with disease and cutaneous lesions.

    PubMed

    Silva, Marilda Guimarães; Shinjo, Samuel Katsuyuki

    2018-01-01

    There are scarce studies in the literature about hyaluronic acid in systemic autoimmune myopathies. To analyze the serum level of hyaluronic acid in patients with dermatomyositis and polymyositis. Cross-sectional study, single-center, that evaluated hyaluronic acid in 18 dermatomyositis and 15 polymyositis (Bohan and Peter criteria), newly diagnosed, with clinical and laboratory activity, with no previous drug treatment. The patients were also age-, gender- and ethnicity-matched to 36 healthy individuals. The hyaluronic acid was analyzed by ELISA/EIA kit anti-hyaluronic acid. There was a higher serum level of hyaluronic acid in patients with autoimmune myopathies, in relation to control group (P<0.05). Moreover, the serum level of this glycosaminoglycan was higher in dermatomyositis, when compared to polymyositis. Both groups were comparable with regard to demographic, clinical and laboratory data, except for the presence of skin lesions in the first group. The presence of hyaluronic acid in cutaneous lesions, particularly of patients with dermatomyositis, was not analyzed neither quantified. In addition, due to disease rarity and the establishment of strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, there was a small sample in the present study. As an example of others systemic autoimmune diseases, it is possible that the hyaluronic acid is involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune myopathies, and particularly when associated with cutaneous lesions.

  17. Co-delivery of evodiamine and rutaecarpine in a microemulsion-based hyaluronic acid hydrogel for enhanced analgesic effects on mouse pain models.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yong-Tai; Li, Zhe; Zhang, Kai; Zhang, Hong-Yu; He, Ze-Hui; Xia, Qing; Zhao, Ji-Hui; Feng, Nian-Ping

    2017-08-07

    The aim of this study was to improve the analgesic effect of evodiamine and rutaecarpine, using a microemulsion-based hydrogel (ME-Gel) as the transdermal co-delivery vehicle, and to assess hyaluronic acid as a hydrogel matrix for microemulsion entrapment. A microemulsion was formulated with ethyl oleate as the oil core to improve the solubility of the alkaloids and was loaded into a hyaluronic acid-structured hydrogel. Permeation-enhancing effects of the microemulsion enabled evodiamine and rutaecarpine in ME-Gel to achieve 2.60- and 2.59-fold higher transdermal fluxes compared with hydrogel control (p<0.01). The hyaluronic acid hydrogel-containing microemulsion exhibited good skin biocompatibility, whereas effective ME-Gel co-delivery of evodiamine and rutaecarpine through the skin enhanced the analgesic effect in mouse pain models compared with hydrogel. Notably, evodiamine and rutaecarpine administered using ME-Gel effectively down-regulated serum levels of prostaglandin E 2 , interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α in formaldehyde-induced mouse pain models, possibly reflecting the improved transdermal permeability of ME-Gel co-delivered evodiamine and rutaecarpine, particularly with hyaluronic acid as the hydrogel matrix. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Rooster comb hyaluronate-protein, a non-covalently linked complex.

    PubMed Central

    Tsiganos, C P; Vynios, D H; Kalpaxis, D L

    1986-01-01

    Hyaluronate from rooster comb was isolated by ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose from tissue extracts and papain digests. The preparations were labelled with [14C]acetic anhydride and subjected to CsCl-density-gradient centrifugation in 4 M-guanidinium chloride in the presence and absence of 4% ZwittergentTM 3-12. A radioactive protein fraction was separated from the hyaluronate when the zwitterionic detergent was also present. The protein could also be separated from the glycosaminoglycan by chromatography on Sepharose CL-6B eluted with the same solvent mixture. The protein fraction contained three protein bands of Mr 15,000-17,000 as assessed by polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in 0.1% SDS, and seemed to lack lysozyme activity. No evidence of other protein or amino acid(s) covalently linked with the hyaluronate was obtained. The hyaluronate-protein complex may be re-formed upon mixing the components, the extent of its formation depending on the conditions used. The results show that, as in chondrosarcoma [Mason, d'Arville, Kimura & Hascall (1982) Biochem. J. 207, 445-457] and teratocarcinoma cells [Prehm (1983) Biochem. J. 211, 191-198] the rooster comb hyaluronate also is not linked covalently to a core protein. PMID:3741374

  19. Clinical comparision of intravesical hyaluronic acid and hyaluronic acid-chondroitin sulphate therapy for patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitital cystitis.

    PubMed

    Gülpınar, Omer; Kayış, Aytaç; Süer, Evren; Gökçe, Mehmet İlker; Güçlü, Adil Güçal; Arıkan, Nihat

    2014-09-01

    Patients with a history of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) and who responded poorly or unsatisfactorily with previous treatment were compared taking intravesical hyaluronic acid (HA) or hyaluronic acid-chondroitin sulphate (HA-CS). Patients were treated with intravesical instillation with 50 mL sterile sodium hyalurinic acid (Hyacyst, Syner-Med, Surrey, UK) (n = 32) and sodium hyaluronate 1.6% sodium chondroitin sulphate 2% (Ialuril, Aspire Pharma, UK) (n = 33). Intravesical instillations were performed weekly in first month, every 15 days in the second month and monthly in third and fourth months, for a total of 8 doses. Patients were evaluated using a visual analog pain scale (VAS), interstitial cystitis symptom index (ICSI), interstitial cystitis problem index (ICPI), voiding diary for frequency/nocturia, cystometric bladder capacity and voided volume at the beginning and at 6 months. All patients had a potassium sensitivity test (PST) initially. Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for statistical analysis. In total, 53 patients met the study criteria. There were 30 patients in the HA-CS group (mean age: 48.47) and 23 patients in the HA group (mean age: 49.61) (p > 0.05). The initial PST was positive in 71.7% patients (38/53) overall with no difference between groups (p > 0.05). Responses for VAS, ICCS, ICPS, 24-hour frequency/nocturia statistically improved in both groups at 6 months. There was no significant difference in symptomatic improvement (p > 0.05). Eight patients had mild adverse events. HA and HA/CS instillation can be effective in BPS/IC patients who do not respond to conservative treatment. An important limitation of our study is that the HA dosage of the 2 treatment arms were different. It would be more appropriate with same HA dosage in both groups; however, there was no commercially available glycosaminoglycan (GAG) substance with same HA dosage for single and combination therapy. Large, long-term randomized studies

  20. Synthesis and characterization of a novel hyaluronic acid hydrogel.

    PubMed

    Zhao, X

    2006-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid (hyaluronan, HA) has many medical applications as a biomaterial. To enhance its biostability, a novel hydrogel of cross-linked hyaluronic acid was prepared using a double cross-linking process, which involves building cross-linkages between hydroxyl group pairs and carboxyl group pairs. The present study explored a number of cross-linking processes in order to obtain different degrees of cross-linking, which were evaluated by the measurement of water absorption capacity as an index of the gel network density. To gain a better understanding of the stability of the gel, the chemical structure and particularly the rheological behaviour of the cross-linked HA, which included the influences of factors, such as degree of cross-linking, HA concentration and gel particle size, were investigated. The in vitro biostability against hyaluronidase and free radical degradation was tested to show that the cross-linked hydrogel had improved resistance to in vitro hyaluronidase and free radical degradation.

  1. Competitive Protein Adsorption on Polysaccharide and Hyaluronate Modified Surfaces

    PubMed Central

    Ombelli, Michela; Costello, Lauren; Postle, Corinne; Anantharaman, Vinod; Meng, Qing Cheng; Composto, Russell J.; Eckmann, David M.

    2011-01-01

    We measured adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and fibrinogen (Fg) onto six distinct bare and dextran- and hyaluronate-modified silicon surfaces created using two dextran grafting densities and three hyaluronic acid (HA) sodium salts derived from human umbilical cord, rooster comb and streptococcus zooepidemicus. Film thickness and surface morphology depended on HA molecular weight and concentration. BSA coverage was enhanced on surfaces upon competitive adsorption of BSA:Fg mixtures. Dextranization differentially reduced protein adsorption onto surfaces based on oxidation state. Hyaluronization was demonstrated to provide the greatest resistance to protein coverage, equivalent to that of the most resistant dextranized surface. Resistance to protein adsorption was independent of the type of hyaluronic acid utilized. With changing bulk protein concentration from 20 to 40 µg ml−1 for each species, Fg coverage on silicon increased by 4×, whereas both BSA and Fg adsorption on dextran and HA were far less dependent of protein bulk concentration. PMID:21623481

  2. Comparison of the Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Cream and Conjugated Estrogen Used in Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy of Menopause Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

    PubMed Central

    Jokar, Azam; Davari, Tayebe; Asadi, Nasrin; Ahmadi, Fateme; Foruhari, Sedighe

    2016-01-01

    Background: Vaginal atrophy is a common complication in menopause which does not improve with time and, if untreated, can affect the quality of life for women. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the vaginal cream of hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen (Premarin) in treatment of vaginal atrophy. Methods: This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial on 56 menopausal women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy; they were randomly allocated to two groups (recipient conjugated estrogen and hyaluronic acid). The severity of each sign of atrophy was evaluated by visual analog signals (VAS) and on the basis of a four point scale. Also to recognize the cellular maturation with pap smear and the maturation degree were calculated according to the formula and scores 0-100. As to the vaginal PH, we used PH marker band, the rate of which was divided into 4 degrees. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 20, and P≤0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The results of this study showed that the symptoms of vaginal atrophy compared with the baseline level were relieved significantly in both groups. Dryness, itching, maturation index, PH and composite score of the vaginal symptoms were relieved significantly in both groups (P<0.001). Dyspareunia in Premarin (P<0.05) and hyaluronic acid (P<0.001) decreased compared with pre-treatment. Urinary incontinence only showed improvement in the hyaluronic acid group (P<0.05). Improvement in urinary incontinence, dryness, maturation index (P<0.05) and composite score of vaginal symptoms (P<0.001) in the hyaluronic acid group was better than those in the Premarin group. Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen improved the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. But hyaluronic acid was more effective and this drug is suggested for those who do not want to or cannot take local hormone treatment. Trial Registration Number: IRCT2013022712644N1 PMID:26793732

  3. Comparison of the Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Cream and Conjugated Estrogen Used in Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy of Menopause Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Jokar, Azam; Davari, Tayebe; Asadi, Nasrin; Ahmadi, Fateme; Foruhari, Sedighe

    2016-01-01

    Vaginal atrophy is a common complication in menopause which does not improve with time and, if untreated, can affect the quality of life for women. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the vaginal cream of hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen (Premarin) in treatment of vaginal atrophy. This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial on 56 menopausal women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy; they were randomly allocated to two groups (recipient conjugated estrogen and hyaluronic acid). The severity of each sign of atrophy was evaluated by visual analog signals (VAS) and on the basis of a four point scale. Also to recognize the cellular maturation with pap smear and the maturation degree were calculated according to the formula and scores 0-100. As to the vaginal PH, we used PH marker band, the rate of which was divided into 4 degrees. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 20, and P≤0.05 was considered as significant. The results of this study showed that the symptoms of vaginal atrophy compared with the baseline level were relieved significantly in both groups. Dryness, itching, maturation index, PH and composite score of the vaginal symptoms were relieved significantly in both groups (P<0.001). Dyspareunia in Premarin (P<0.05) and hyaluronic acid (P<0.001) decreased compared with pre-treatment. Urinary incontinence only showed improvement in the hyaluronic acid group (P<0.05). Improvement in urinary incontinence, dryness, maturation index (P<0.05) and composite score of vaginal symptoms (P<0.001) in the hyaluronic acid group was better than those in the Premarin group. According to the results of the present study, hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen improved the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. But hyaluronic acid was more effective and this drug is suggested for those who do not want to or cannot take local hormone treatment. IRCT2013022712644N1.

  4. Results of endovesical hyaluronic acid/chondroitin sulfate in the treatment of Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome.

    PubMed

    Porru, D; Cervigni, M; Nasta, L; Natale, F; Lo Voi, R; Tinelli, C; Gardella, B; Anghileri, A; Spinillo, A; Rovereto, B

    2008-05-01

    The aim of our study was to test the effect of a more viscous compound than existent hyaluronic acid formulation in helping to restore a defective glycosaminoglycan layer, and therefore in improving Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS) symptoms when administered intravesically in IC/PBS patients. A total of 23 female patients completed the study. Patients received endovesical administration of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate in normal saline, 40 ml, weekly for 12 weeks and then bi-weekly for 6 months, if there was initial response. After 12 weeks treatment both Interstitial Cystitis Symptom and Problem Index (ICSI/ICPI), pelvic pain and Urgency/Frequency Symptom Scale (PUF) showed a mean significant improvement, which was maintained thereafter. The average number of voidings and mean voiding volumes revealed significant improvement after the 12 weeks' treatment period, with a significant reduction and increase, respectively. Mean voiding volume increased from 143 ml to 191, which apparently was not reflected in a corresponding reduction of number of daily voids (from 15,5 to 14). VAS values decreased from 5,4 to 3,6 (pain) and from 6,0 to 3,5 (urgency) after the treatment cycle, showing a significant improvement. In our preliminary experience, the administration of intravesical hyaluronic acid plus chondroitine sulphate appears to be a safe and efficacious method of treatment in IC/PBS.

  5. Effectiveness of adjunctive subgingival administration of amino acids and sodium hyaluronate gel on clinical and immunological parameters in the treatment of chronic periodontitis

    PubMed Central

    Bevilacqua, Lorenzo; Eriani, Jessica; Serroni, Ilde; Liani, Giuliana; Borelli, Violetta; Castronovo, Gaetano; Di Lenarda, Roberto

    2012-01-01

    Summary Aims The aim of this clinical trial was to compare clinical and biochemical healing outcomes following ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation versus ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation associated with topical subgingival application of amino acids and sodium hyaluronate gel. Methods Eleven systemically healthy subjects with moderate-severe chronic periodontitis, who had four sites with pocket probing depth and clinical attachment level greater than or equal to 5 mm were randomly assigned to two different types of treatment: two pockets were treated with ultrasonic debridement (Control Group) and two pockets with ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation associated with 0,5 ml of amino acids and sodium hyaluronate gel (Test Group). Probing depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index and bleeding on probing were recorded at baseline, 45 and 90 days. Levels of calprotectin and myeloperoxidase activity in gingival crevicular fluid were assessed at baseline and on day 7 and 45. Results Statistical significance was found between baseline and day 45 in relation to probing depth reduction and bleeding on probing between groups for both of the tested treatments. Significant reductions in μg/sample of calprotectin and myeloperoxidase were found after 1-week and an increase at 45 days in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences between other variables evaluated in this study. Conclusions These data suggest that subgingival application of hyaluronic acid following ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation is beneficial for improving periodontal parameters. PMID:23087790

  6. Adelmidrol, in combination with hyaluronic acid, displays increased anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects against monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis in rats.

    PubMed

    Di Paola, Rosanna; Fusco, Roberta; Impellizzeri, Daniela; Cordaro, Marika; Britti, Domenico; Morittu, Valeria Maria; Evangelista, Maurizio; Cuzzocrea, Salvatore

    2016-12-12

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease produced by a cascade of events that can ultimately lead to joint damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adelmidrol, a synthetic palmitoylethanolamide analogue, combined with hyaluronic acid on pain severity and modulation of the inflammatory response in a rat model of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis. OA was induced by intra-articular injection of MIA in the knee joint. On day 21 post-MIA administration, the knee joint was analyzed. Rats subjected to OA were treated by intra-articular injection of adelmidrol in combination with sodium hyaluronate at different doses and time points after MIA induction. Limb nociception was assessed by the paw withdrawal latency and threshold measurement. Samples were examined macroscopically, histologically, and by immunohistochemistry. At day 21 post-MIA injection, the MIA + solvent and MIA + 1.0% sodium hyaluronate groups showed irregularities and fibrillation in the surface layer, a decrease in blood cells and multilayering in transition and radial zones, no pannus formation, and modified Mankin scores significantly higher than sham knees. The combination of hyaluronic acid and adelmidrol dose-dependently (adelmidrol 0.6% + 1.0% sodium hyaluronate and adelmidrol 2% + 1.0% sodium hyaluronate) reduced the histological alterations induced by MIA. Moreover, degeneration of articular cartilage, mast cell infiltration, and pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine plasma levels were significantly downregulated by treatment with a combination of hyaluronic acid and adelmidrol at the above doses. Our results clearly demonstrate that the combination of hyaluronic acid and adelmidrol improves the signs of OA induced by MIA.

  7. Liquid Paraffin vs Hyaluronic Acid in Preventing Intraperitoneal Adhesions.

    PubMed

    Kataria, Hanish; Singh, Vinod Prem

    2017-12-01

    Adhesion formation after abdominal and pelvic operations remains a challenging problem. Role of adjuvant barriers have been studied but there is no comparative study between liquid paraffin and hyaluronic acid as a barrier method. Hence, we planned to compare the effectiveness of 0.4 % hyaluronic acid and liquid paraffin in the prevention of postoperative intraperitoneal adhesions in rats. This prospective, randomized and controlled study was conducted in 60 adult Wistar albino rats. Surgical trauma by caecal abrasion and 1 g talcum powder was used in the rat model to induce adhesion formation. After trauma, 3 ml normal saline was instilled in the peritoneal cavity in control group ( n  = 20), 3 ml liquid paraffin was instilled in experimental group A ( n  = 20) and 3 ml 0.4 % hyaluronic acid was instilled in experimental group B ( n  = 20). Two weeks after laparotomy, repeat laparotomy was performed and the adhesions were scored according to Zuhlke classification. Liquid paraffin and hyaluronic acid both reduce the extent and grade of adhesions both macroscopically ( p  = 0.018, p  = 0.017) and microscopically ( p  = 0.019, p  = 0.019) respectively. Although there was significant reduction in adhesions by hyaluronic acid at certain specific sites as compared with liquid paraffin, its overall effectiveness in preventing postoperative intraperitoneal adhesions is not significantly different from liquid paraffin ( p  = 0.092, p  = 0.193) respectively. The presence of liquid paraffin and hyaluronic acid in the peritoneal cavity reduce postoperative intraperitoneal adhesions significantly in rats. However, there is no overall significant difference in the effectiveness of two groups. Dosage and safety of these chemicals in human beings remains to be established.

  8. Effects of Hyaluronic Acid Conjugation on Anti-TNF-alpha Inhibition of Inflammation in Burns

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-05-01

    Effects of hyaluronic acid conjugation on anti-TNF-α inhibition of inflammation in burns Emily E. Friedrich1, Liang Tso Sun1, Shanmugasundaram...alone, mixed with hyaluronic acid or conjugated to hyaluronic acid . We found that non-conjugated anti-TNF-α decreased macrophage infiltration to a...greater extent than that conjugated to hyaluronic acid ; however there was little effect on the degree of progression or IL-1β levels. A simple transport

  9. Global Aesthetics Consensus: Hyaluronic Acid Fillers and Botulinum Toxin Type A—Recommendations for Combined Treatment and Optimizing Outcomes in Diverse Patient Populations

    PubMed Central

    Liew, Steven; Signorini, Massimo; Vieira Braz, André; Fagien, Steven; Swift, Arthur; De Boulle, Koenraad L.; Raspaldo, Hervé; Trindade de Almeida, Ada R.; Monheit, Gary

    2016-01-01

    Background: Combination of fillers and botulinum toxin for aesthetic applications is increasingly popular. Patient demographics continue to diversify, and include an expanding population receiving maintenance treatments over decades. Methods: A multinational panel of plastic surgeons and dermatologists convened the Global Aesthetics Consensus Group to develop updated guidelines with a worldwide perspective for hyaluronic acid fillers and botulinum toxin. This publication considers strategies for combined treatments, and how patient diversity influences treatment planning and outcomes. Results: Global Aesthetics Consensus Group recommendations reflect increased use of combined treatments in the lower and upper face, and some midface regions. A fully patient-tailored approach considers physiologic and chronologic age, ethnically associated facial morphotypes, and aesthetic ideals based on sex and culture. Lower toxin dosing, to modulate rather than paralyze muscles, is indicated where volume deficits influence muscular activity. Combination of toxin with fillers is appropriate for several indications addressed previously with toxin alone. New scientific data regarding hyaluronic acid fillers foster an evidence-based approach to selection of products and injection techniques. Focus on aesthetic units, rather than isolated rhytides, optimizes results from toxin and fillers. It also informs longitudinal treatment planning, and analysis of toxin nonresponders. Conclusions: The emerging objective of injectable treatment is facial harmonization rather than rejuvenation. Combined treatment is now a standard of care. Its use will increase further as we refine the concept that aspects of aging are intimately related, and that successful treatment entails identifying and addressing the primary causes of each. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, V. PMID:27119917

  10. A hybrid composite system of biphasic calcium phosphate granules loaded with hyaluronic acid-gelatin hydrogel for bone regeneration.

    PubMed

    Faruq, Omar; Kim, Boram; Padalhin, Andrew R; Lee, Gun Hee; Lee, Byong-Taek

    2017-10-01

    An ideal bone substitute should be made of biocompatible materials that mimic the structure, characteristics, and functions of natural bone. Many researchers have worked on the fabrication of different bone scaffold systems including ceramic-polymer hybrid system. In the present study, we incorporated hyaluronic acid-gelatin hydrogel to micro-channeled biphasic calcium phosphate granules as a carrier to improve cell attachment and proliferation through highly interconnected porous structure. This hybrid system is composed of ceramic biphasic calcium phosphate granules measuring 1 mm in diameter with seven holes and hyaluronic acid-gelatin hydrogel. This combination of biphasic calcium phosphate and hyaluronic acid-gelatin retained suitable characteristics for bone regeneration. The resulting scaffold had a porosity of 56% with a suitable pore sizes. The mechanical strength of biphasic calcium phosphate granule increased after loading hyaluronic acid-gelatin from 4.26 ± 0.43 to 6.57 ± 0.25 MPa, which is highly recommended for cancellous bone substitution. Swelling and degradation rates decreased in the hybrid scaffold compared to hydrogel due to the presence of granules in hybrid scaffold. In vitro cytocompatibility studies were observed by preosteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) cell line and the result revealed that biphasic calcium phosphate/hyaluronic acid-gelatin significantly increased cell growth and proliferation compared to biphasic calcium phosphate granules. Analysis of micro-computed tomography data and stained tissue sections from the implanted samples showed that the hybrid scaffold had good osseointegration and better bone formation in the scaffold one and two months postimplantation. Histological section confirmed the formation of dense collagenous tissue and new bone in biphasic calcium phosphate/hyaluronic acid-gelatin scaffolds at two months. Our study demonstrated that such hybrid biphasic calcium phosphate/hyaluronic acid-gelatin scaffold is a

  11. Hyaluronic acid (with fibronectin) as a bioimplant for the vocal fold mucosa.

    PubMed

    Chan, R W; Titze, I R

    1999-07-01

    To measure the viscoelastic shear properties of hyaluronic acid, with and without fibronectin, and to compare them with those of the human vocal fold mucosa and other phonosurgical biomaterials. Viscoelastic shear properties of various implantable biomaterials (Teflon, gelatin, collagen, fat, hyaluronic acid, and hyaluronic acid with fibronectin) were measured with a parallel-plate rotational rheometer. Elastic and viscous shear properties were quantified as a function of oscillation frequency (0.01-15 Hz) at 37 degrees C. The shear properties of hyaluronic acid were relatively close to those of human vocal fold mucosal tissues reported previously. Hyaluronic acid at specific concentrations (0.5%-1%), with or without fibronectin, was found to exhibit viscous shear properties (viscous shear modulus and dynamic viscosity) similar to those of the average male and female vocal fold mucosa. According to a theory that establishes the effects of tissue shear properties on vocal fold oscillation, phonation threshold pressure (a measure of the ease of phonation) is directly related to the viscous shear modulus of the vibrating vocal fold mucosa. Therefore, our findings suggest that hyaluronic acid, either by itself or mixed with fibronectin, may be a potentially optimal bioimplant for the surgical management of vocal fold mucosal defects and lamina propria deficiencies (e.g., scarring) from a biomechanical standpoint.

  12. Enzymatically Cross-linked Alginic-Hyaluronic acid Composite Hydrogels As Cell Delivery Vehicles

    PubMed Central

    Ganesh, Nitya; Hanna, Craig; Nair, Shantikumar V.; Nair, Lakshmi S.

    2013-01-01

    An injectable composite gel was developed from alginic and hyaluronic acid. The ezymatically cross-linked injectable gels were prepared via the oxidative coupling of tyramine modified sodium algiante and sodium hyaluronate in the presence of horse radish peroxidase (HRP) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The composite gels were prepared by mixing equal parts of the two tryaminated polymer solutions in 10U HRP and treating with 1.0% H2O2. The properties of the alginate gels were significanly affected by the addition of hyaluronic acid. The percentage water absorption and storage modulus of the composite gels were found to be lower than the alginate gels. The alginate and composite gels showed lower protein release compared to hyaluronate gels in the absence of hyaluronidase. Even hyaluronate gels showed only approximately 10% protein release after 14 days incubation in phosphate buffer solution. ATDC-5 cells encapsulated in the injectable gels showed high cell viability. The composite gels showed the presence of enlarged spherical cells with significantly higher metabolic activity compared to cells in hyaluronic and alginic acid gels. The results suggest the potential of the composite approach to develop covalently cross-linked hydrogels with tuneable physical, mechanical, and biological properties. PMID:23357799

  13. Clinical evaluation of the additive effect of diquafosol tetrasodium on sodium hyaluronate monotherapy in patients with dry eye syndrome: a prospective, randomized, multicenter study.

    PubMed

    Kamiya, K; Nakanishi, M; Ishii, R; Kobashi, H; Igarashi, A; Sato, N; Shimizu, K

    2012-10-01

    To assess the additive effect of diquafosol tetrasodium on sodium hyaluronate monotherapy in patients with dry eye syndrome. This study evaluated 64 eyes of 32 patients (age: 62.6±12.8 years (mean±SD)) in whom treatment with 0.1% sodium hyaluronate was insufficiently responsive. The eyes were randomly assigned to one of the two regimens in each patient: topical administration of sodium hyaluronate and diquafosol tetrasodium in one eye, and that of sodium hyaluronate in the other. Before treatment, and 2 and 4 weeks after treatment, we determined tear volume, tear film break-up time (BUT), fluorescein and rose bengal vital staining scores, subjective symptoms, and adverse events. We found a significant improvement in BUT (P=0.049, Dunnett test), fluorescein and rose bengal staining scores (P=0.02), and in subjective symptoms (P=0.004 for dry eye sensation, P=0.02 for pain, and P=0.02 for foreign body sensation) 4 weeks after treatment in the diquafosol eyes. On the other hand, we found no significant change in these parameters after treatment in the control eyes. In dry eyes, where sodium hyaluronate monotherapy was insufficient, diquafosol tetrasodium was effective in improving objective and subjective symptoms, suggesting its viability as an option for the additive treatment of such eyes.

  14. Intra-articular viscosupplementation of hyaluronic acids in an experimental osteoarthritis model.

    PubMed

    Oliveira, Marcello Zaia; Albano, Mauro Batista; Stirma, Guilherme Augusto; Namba, Mario Massatomo; Vidigal, Leandro; Cunha, Luiz Antonio Munhoz da

    2018-01-01

    To analyze, from the immunohistochemical perspective, the effects of hyaluronic acid of different molecular weights in an experimental model of osteoarthritis in rabbits. Forty-four male California rabbits were randomly assigned to three different groups (PR, S, and P) and submitted to the resection of the anterior cruciate ligament of the right knee. Three weeks after the surgical procedure, three intra-articular weekly injections were carried out with low-molecular-weight native hyaluronic acid (Hyalgan ® ) to PR group, high molecular weight branched chain hyaluronic acid (Synvisc ® ) to group S, and saline solution 0.9% to group P. All animals were sacrificed 12 weeks after the surgical procedure, and the tibial plateaus of the infiltrated knees were then dissected. Histological sections of cartilage from the tibial plateau support areas were stained with immunohistochemical markers in order to investigate the amount of metalloproteases (MMPs 3 and 13) and their inhibitors (TIMPs 1 and 3). The staining intensity was quantified on a Zeiss Imager.Z2 Metasystems microscope and analyzed by Metafer4 Msearch software. The chondroprotective effect of the hyaluronic acids used in the study was demonstrated when compared to the control group. However, the comparison between them presented no significant statistical difference regarding chondroprotection. The injection of saline solution demonstrated signs of OA development, while adding native hyaluronic acid of low molecular weight (Hyalgan ® ) and hyaluronic acid of high molecular weight (Synvisc ® ) protected the articular cartilage in this model of OA.

  15. Design of Cell-Matrix Interactions in Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Scaffolds

    PubMed Central

    Segura, Tatiana

    2013-01-01

    The design of hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel scaffolds to elicit highly controlled and tunable cell response and behavior is a major field of interest in developing tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. This review will begin with an overview of the biological context of hyaluronic acid, knowledge needed to better understand how to engineer cell-matrix interactions in the scaffolds via the incorporation of different types of signals in order to direct and control cell behavior. Specifically, recent methods of incorporating various bioactive, mechanical, and spatial signals are reviewed, as well as novel hyaluronic acid modifications and crosslinking schemes with a focus on specificity. PMID:23899481

  16. Production and characterization of bacterial cellulose membranes with hyaluronic acid from chicken comb.

    PubMed

    de Oliveira, Sabrina Alves; da Silva, Bruno Campos; Riegel-Vidotti, Izabel Cristina; Urbano, Alexandre; de Sousa Faria-Tischer, Paula Cristina; Tischer, Cesar Augusto

    2017-04-01

    The bacterial cellulose (BC), from Gluconacetobacter hansenii, is a biofilm with a high degree of crystallinity that can be used for therapeutic purposes and as a candidate for healing wounds. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a constitutive polysaccharide found in the extracellular matrix and is a material used in tissue engineering and scaffolding for tissue regeneration. In this study, polymeric composites were produced in presence of hyaluronic acid isolated from chicken comb on different days of fermentation, specifically on the first (BCHA-SABT0) and third day (BCHA-SABT3) of fermentation. The structural characteristics, thermal stability and molar mass of hyaluronic acid from chicken comb were evaluated. Native membrane and polymeric composites were characterized with respect to their morphology and crystallinity. The optimized process of extraction and purification of hyaluronic acid resulted in low molar mass hyaluronic acid with structural characteristics similar to the standard commercial hyaluronic acid. The results demonstrate that the polymeric composites (BC/HA-SAB) can be produced in situ. The membranes produced on the third day presented better incorporation of HA-SAB between cellulose microfiber, resulting in membranes with higher thermal stability, higher roughness and lower crystallinity. The biocompatiblily of bacterial cellulose and the importance of hyaluronic acid as a component of extracellular matrix qualify the polymeric composites as promising biomaterials for tissue engineering. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Exploring reasons for the observed inconsistent trial reports on intra-articular injections with hyaluronic acid in the treatment of osteoarthritis: Meta-regression analyses of randomized trials.

    PubMed

    Johansen, Mette; Bahrt, Henriette; Altman, Roy D; Bartels, Else M; Juhl, Carsten B; Bliddal, Henning; Lund, Hans; Christensen, Robin

    2016-08-01

    The aim was to identify factors explaining inconsistent observations concerning the efficacy of intra-articular hyaluronic acid compared to intra-articular sham/control, or non-intervention control, in patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis, based on randomized clinical trials (RCTs). A systematic review and meta-regression analyses of available randomized trials were conducted. The outcome, pain, was assessed according to a pre-specified hierarchy of potentially available outcomes. Hedges׳s standardized mean difference [SMD (95% CI)] served as effect size. REstricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) mixed-effects models were used to combine study results, and heterogeneity was calculated and interpreted as Tau-squared and I-squared, respectively. Overall, 99 studies (14,804 patients) met the inclusion criteria: Of these, only 71 studies (72%), including 85 comparisons (11,216 patients), had adequate data available for inclusion in the primary meta-analysis. Overall, compared with placebo, intra-articular hyaluronic acid reduced pain with an effect size of -0.39 [-0.47 to -0.31; P < 0.001], combining very heterogeneous trial findings (I(2) = 73%). The three most important covariates in reducing heterogeneity were overall risk of bias, blinding of personnel and trial size, reducing heterogeneity with 26%, 26%, and 25%, respectively (Interaction: P ≤ 0.001). Adjusting for publication/selective outcome reporting bias (by imputing "null effects") in 24 of the comparisons with no data available reduced the combined estimate to -0.30 [-0.36 to -0.23; P < 0.001] still in favor of hyaluronic acid. Based on available trial data, intra-articular hyaluronic acid showed a better effect than intra-articular saline on pain reduction in osteoarthritis. Publication bias and the risk of selective outcome reporting suggest only small clinical effect compared to saline. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Clinical comparison of oral administration and viscosupplementation of hyaluronic acid (HA) in early knee osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Ricci, M; Micheloni, G M; Berti, M; Perusi, F; Sambugaro, E; Vecchini, E; Magnan, B

    2017-04-01

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, chronic and degenerative joint disease characterized by a loss of articular cartilage. Treatment of OA is largely palliative based on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids and injections of steroids. Regarding conservative treatment, intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) can play a role in early symptomatic knee OA. Between August 2015 and September 2015, sixty patients (32 males and 28 females) between 40 and 70 years old were randomly allocated into two groups: Half were treated with three weekly intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid 1.6 % (group A), while the others were treated with Syalox 300 Plus ® (hyaluronic acid 300 mg + Boswellia serrata extract 100 mg) 1 tab/die for 20 days and afterward Syalox 150 ® (hyaluronic acid 150 mg) 1 tab/die for other 20 days (group B). All patients were evaluated clinically with American Knee Society Score (AKSS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) for the pain before the treatment and after 3 months. AKSS of the patients in both groups was significantly increased by the treatment, and VAS score was significantly reduced. In both groups, two subgroups were created with patients older than 60 years and patients younger than 60 years. Better results are reported in younger patients of group A and older subjects in group B. Despite several limitations, the results of the study have shown that HA injection and oral administration may have beneficial therapeutic effects on patients with early osteoarthritis. Different outcomes in younger and older subject suggested a combined therapy first with local infiltrations and then with oral composition.

  19. Fibroblast populated collagen lattices exhibit opposite biophysical conditions by fibrin or hyaluronic acid supplementation.

    PubMed

    Chopin-Doroteo, Mario; Salgado-Curiel, Rosa M; Pérez-González, José; Marín-Santibáñez, Benjamín M; Krötzsch, Edgar

    2018-06-01

    Fibrin and hyaluronic acid are important components of the provisional wound matrix. Through interactions with fibroblasts, they provide biophysical cues that regulate the viscoelastic properties of the extracellular matrix. To understand the roles of fibrin and hyaluronic acid in a collagenous environment, we used fibroblast populated collagen lattices (collagen, collagen-fibrin, and collagen-hyaluronic acid). Compared with collagen and collagen-hyaluronic acid cultures, collagen-fibrin cultures showed less contraction, which is correlated with increased elastic (G') and complex (|G*|) moduli, and reduced proportions of dendritic fibroblasts, despite increased αv integrin expression. Stiffness decreased during culture in collagen-fibrin environment, meanwhile phase shift (δ) values increased, clearly associated with the rise in fibrinolytic and gelatinolytic activities. These processes changed the viscoelastic properties of the system toward G' and |G*| values observed on day 5 in collagen cultures. Although less collagen turnover was observed in collagen-fibrin cultures than in collagen and collagen-hyaluronic acid cultures, collagen neosynthesis was apparently insufficient to contribute to the overall viscoelastic properties of the system. Collagen-hyaluronic acid cultures showed very limited changes during time. Firstly, they exhibited the highest δ values, suggesting an increase in the viscous behavior due to the hygroscopic properties of hyaluronic acid. These results showed that fibrin and hyaluronic acid not only affect differently the viscoelastic properties of the culture, they can tune fibroblastic activity by regulating cell attachment and extracellular matrix remodeling. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Physics of soft hyaluronic acid-collagen type II double network gels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Morozova, Svetlana; Muthukumar, Murugappan

    2015-03-01

    Many biological hydrogels are made up of multiple interpenetrating, charged components. We study the swelling, elastic diffusion, mechanical, and optical behaviors of 100 mol% ionizable hyaluronic acid (HA) and collagen type II fiber networks. Dilute, 0.05-0.5 wt% hyaluronic acid networks are extremely sensitive to solution salt concentration, but are stable at pH above 2. When swelled in 0.1M NaCl, single-network hyaluronic acid gels follow scaling laws relevant to high salt semidilute solutions; the elastic shear modulus G' and diffusion constant D scale with the volume fraction ϕ as G' ~ϕ 9 / 4 and D ~ϕ 3 / 4 , respectively. With the addition of a collagen fiber network, we find that the hyaluronic acid network swells to suspend the rigid collagen fibers, providing extra strength to the hydrogel. Results on swelling equilibria, elasticity, and collective diffusion on these double network hydrogels will be presented.

  1. Hydrocortisone effect on hyaluronate synthesis in a self-assembled human dermal equivalent.

    PubMed

    Deshpande, Madhura; Papp, Suzanne; Schaffer, Lana; Pouyani, Tara

    2016-10-01

    Human dermal matrix is a 'self-assembled' dermal equivalent containing large amounts of the glycosaminoglycan hyaluronic acid (hyaluronate, hyaluronan, HA). We sought to investigate the actions of the hormone hydrocortisone on hyaluronate synthesis in the human dermal matrix. To this end, human dermal fibroblasts were cultured under serum-free conditions, and in the absence of a three-dimensional matrix, in the presence of varying amounts of hydrocortisone. The resultant human dermal matrices were characterized. We report that low concentrations of hydrocortisone enhance hyaluronate synthesis in the human dermal equivalent and higher concentrations cause inhibition of hyaluronate synthesis. Other glycosaminoglycan (chondroitin sulphate) synthesis is not affected by changing hydrocortisone concentrations up to 500× (200 µg/ml) of the base value. In order to gain preliminary insight into the molecular mechanism of hyaluronate inhibition, a differential gene array analysis was conducted of human dermal matrix grown in the presence of 200 µg/ml hydrocortisone and in a physiological concentration (0.4 µg/ml, normal conditions). The results of these experiments demonstrate the differential expression of 43 genes in the 500× (200 µg/ml) hydrocortisone construct as compared to the construct grown under normal conditions (0.4 µg/ml hydrocortisone). These preliminary experiments suggest that hydrocortisone at higher concentrations may exert its inhibitory effect on hyaluronate synthesis early in the glycolytic pathway, leading to HA biosynthesis by downregulation of phosphoglucomutase and glucose phosphate isomerase, possibly leading to depletion of the cellular pool of UDP-sugar precursors necessary for HA synthesis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  2. A randomized, multicenter phase 3 study comparing 2% rebamipide (OPC-12759) with 0.1% sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of dry eye.

    PubMed

    Kinoshita, Shigeru; Oshiden, Kazuhide; Awamura, Saki; Suzuki, Hiroyuki; Nakamichi, Norihiro; Yokoi, Norihiko

    2013-06-01

    To investigate the efficacy of 2% rebamipide ophthalmic suspension compared with 0.1% sodium hyaluronate ophthalmic solution for the treatment of patients with dry eye. Randomized, multicenter, active-controlled parallel-group study. One hundred eighty-eight patients with dry eye. Following a 2-week screening period, patients were allocated randomly to receive 2% rebamipide or 0.1% sodium hyaluronate, administered as 1 drop in each eye 4 or 6 times daily, respectively, for 4 weeks. There were 2 primary end points: changes in the fluorescein corneal staining (FCS) score to determine noninferiority of 2% rebamipide and changes in the lissamine green conjunctival staining (LGCS) score to determine superiority. Secondary objective end points were Schirmer's test results and tear film breakup time (TBUT). Secondary subjective end points were dry eye-related ocular symptoms (foreign body sensation, dryness, photophobia, eye pain, and blurred vision) score and the patients' overall treatment impression score. In the primary analysis, the mean change from baseline in FCS scores verified noninferiority, indicated significant improvement, and, in LGCS scores, verified the superiority of 2% rebamipide to 0.1% sodium hyaluronate. Values for the Schirmer's test and TBUT were comparable between the 2 groups. For 2 dry eye-related ocular symptoms--foreign body sensation and eye pain--2% rebamipide showed significant improvements over 0.1% sodium hyaluronate. Patients had a significantly more favorable impression of 2% rebamipide than of 0.1% sodium hyaluronate; 64.5% rated treatment as improved or markedly improved versus 34.7%, respectively. No serious adverse events were observed. Administration of 2% rebamipide was effective in improving both the objective signs and subjective symptoms of dry eye. Those findings, in addition to the well-tolerated profile of 2% rebamipide, clearly show that it is an effective therapeutic method for dry eye. Proprietary or commercial disclosure

  3. Hyaluronic acid fillers with cohesive polydensified matrix for soft-tissue augmentation and rejuvenation: a literature review

    PubMed Central

    Prasetyo, Adri D; Prager, Welf; Rubin, Mark G; Moretti, Ernesto A; Nikolis, Andreas

    2016-01-01

    Background Cohesive monophasic polydensified fillers show unique viscoelastic properties and variable density of hyaluronic acid, allowing for a homogeneous tissue integration and distribution of the material. Objective The aim of this paper was to review the clinical data regarding the performance, tolerability, and safety of the Belotero® fillers for soft-tissue augmentation and rejuvenation. Methods A literature search was performed up until May 31, 2015 to identify all relevant articles on Belotero® fillers (Basic/Balance, Hydro, Soft, Intense, Volume) and equivalent products (Esthélis®, Mesolis®, Fortélis®, Modélis®). Results This comprehensive review included 26 papers. Findings from three randomized controlled trials showed a greater reduction in nasolabial fold severity with Belotero® Basic/Balance than with collagen (at 8, 12, 16, and 24 weeks, n=118) and Restylane® (at 4 weeks, n=40), and higher patient satisfaction with Belotero® Intense than with Perlane® (at 2 weeks, n=20). With Belotero® Basic/Balance, an improvement of at least 1 point on the severity scale can be expected in ~80% of patients 1–6 months after injection, with an effect still visible at 8–12 months. Positive findings were also reported with Belotero® Volume (no reduction in hyaluronic acid volume at 12 months, as demonstrated by magnetic resonance imaging), Soft (improvement in the esthetic outcomes when used in a sequential approach), and Hydro (improvement in skin appearance in all patients). The most common adverse effects were mild-to-moderate erythema, edema, and hematoma, most of which were temporary. There were no reports of Tyndall effect, nodules, granulomas, or tissue necrosis. Conclusion Clinical evidence indicates sustainable esthetic effects, good safety profile, and long-term tolerability of the Belotero® fillers, particularly Belotero® Basic/Balance and Intense. PMID:27660479

  4. Analysis of hyaluronic acid concentration in rat vocal folds during estral and gravidic puerperal cycles.

    PubMed

    Pedroso, José Eduardo de Sá; Brasil, Osíris Camponês do; Martins, João Roberto Maciel; Nader, Helena Bociane; Simões, Manuel de Jesus

    2009-01-01

    Hormone plays an important role in the larynx. Among other substances, vocal folds contain hyaluronic acid, which tissue concentration may vary according to hormone action. the objective of this study is to analyze hyaluronic acid concentration in the vocal folds during estral and gravidic-puerperal cycles. Experimental study. 40 adult rats were divided into two groups. In the first group we used 20 rats to establish the concentration of hyaluronic acid during the estral cycle and in the second group, 20 animals were submitted to the same procedure but during the gravidic-puerperal cycle. Variations in hyaluronic acid concentration was not observed during the estral cycle. In the gravidic puerperal cycle group, an increase in hyaluronic acid concentration was observed in the puerperal subgroup. Comparing the two groups of estral and gravidic-puerperal cycles, no difference was observed. In comparing all subgroups of estral and gravidic-puerperal cycles, an increase in hyaluronic acid concentration was noticed only in the puerperal phase.

  5. Effectiveness of intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate-chondroitin sulfate in knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter prospective study.

    PubMed

    Rivera, Fabrizio; Bertignone, Luca; Grandi, Giancarlo; Camisassa, Roberto; Comaschi, Guido; Trentini, Diego; Zanone, Marco; Teppex, Giuseppe; Vasario, Gabriele; Fortina, Giorgio

    2016-03-01

    Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid is a well-established therapy for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the use of Arthrum HCS(®) (40 mg hyaluronic acid and 40 mg chondroitin sulfate in 2 mL). This was an open, multicenter, prospective study. Men or women over 40 years of age with documented knee osteoarthritis and WOMAC subscore A (severity of pain) ≥25 were enrolled. They received three weekly intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate 2 % and chondroitin sulfate 2 % in combination. WOMAC subscore A was assessed at 1, 3 and 6 months after the last injection. One hundred and twelve patients were included (women, 66 %). The mean (SD) WOMAC subscore A decreased from 52.1 (15.2) at inclusion to 20.5 (19.7) at month 6 (P < 0.0001). The mean subscore was already significantly decreased 1 month after the last injection at 25.7 (P < 0.0001). Pain relief and consumption of analgesic drugs, both assessed with visual analogic scale (VAS), consistently decreased. The investigators were satisfied/very satisfied as regards the therapeutic effectiveness of sodium hyaluronate-chondroitin sulfate in reducing pain (77 %), improving mobility (78 %) and reducing the consumption of analgesics (74 %). Only one adverse effect was reported by one patient (knee tumefaction). These results suggest that intra-articular injections of Arthrum HCS(®) (sodium hyaluronate plus chondroitin sulfate) in patients with knee osteoarthritis are efficient and safe. These results should be confirmed in a randomized controlled study. IV.

  6. Additive Effect of preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% in treatment of dry eye syndrome with diquafosol 3% eye drops.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Ho Sik; Sung, Yoon-Mi; Lee, Weon Sun; Kim, Eun Chul

    2014-09-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment effect of diquafosol 3% with preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% eye drops in dry eye syndrome. In total, 150 patients with dry eye syndrome were divided randomly into 3 groups. Group 1 (50 patients) was treated 4 times daily with preserved sodium hyaluronate 0.1%, group 2 (50 patients) was treated 4 times daily with diquafosol 3%, and group 3 (50 patients) was treated 4 times daily with diquafosol 3% and preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% eye drops for 3 months. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score, tear film break-up time, Schirmer I test, corneal fluorescein staining, and impression cytology were evaluated. There were significant improvements in the OSDI score, tear film break-up time, Schirmer I score, fluorescein and Rose Bengal staining, goblet cell density, and impression cytological findings in groups 2 and 3 compared with those for group 1 in patients with dry eye syndrome at 1, 2, and 3 months (P < 0.05). There were statistically significant improvements in the OSDI score (-8.48 ± 0.97, -5.69 ± 0.78; P = 0.02), fluorescein (-1.43 ± 0.21, -1.02 ± 0.18; P = 0.03), and Rose Bengal staining (-1.12 ± 0.26, -0.75 ± 0.12; P = 0.03), goblet cell density (89.65 ± 14.39, 70.36 ± 16.75; P = 0.03), and impression cytological findings (-0.53 ± 0.12, -0.34 ± 0.90; P = 0.01) in group 3 compared with those in group 2 at 3 months. Treatment with diquafosol 3% with preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% was more effective than diquafosol 3% monotherapy or treatment with preserved sodium hyaluronate 0.1% in dry eye syndrome. Preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% eye drops can increase the effect of diquafosol 3% in dry eye syndrome.

  7. Effects of sodium hyaluronate on tendon healing and adhesion formation in horses.

    PubMed

    Gaughan, E M; Nixon, A J; Krook, L P; Yeager, A E; Mann, K A; Mohammed, H; Bartel, D L

    1991-05-01

    Sodium hyaluronate reduces adhesions after tendon repair in rodents and dogs, and has been used in limited clinical trials in people. To evaluate its effect on tendon healing and adhesion formation in horses and to compare these effects with those of a compound of similar visco-elastic properties, a study was performed in horses, using a model of collagenase injection in the flexor tendons within the digital sheath. Eight clinically normal horses were randomly allotted to 2 groups. Adhesion formation between the deep digital flexor tendon and the tendon sheath at the pastern region was induced in the forelimbs of all horses. Using tenoscopic control, a 20-gauge needle was inserted into the deep digital flexor tendon of horses under general anesthesia and 0.2 ml of collagenase (2.5 mg/ml) was injected. The procedure was repeated proximally at 2 other sites, spaced 1.5 cm apart. A biopsy forceps was introduced, and a 5-mm tendon defect was created at each injection site. Group-A horses had 120 mg of sodium hyaluronate (NaHA) gel injected into the tendon sheath of one limb. Group-B horses had methylcellulose gel injected at the same sites. The contralateral limbs of horses in both groups served as surgical, but noninjected, controls. Horses were euthanatized after 8 weeks of stall rest. Ultrasonographic evaluation revealed improved tendon healing after NaHa injection, but no difference in peritendinous adhesion formation. Tendon sheath fluid volume and hyaluronic acid (HA) content were greater in NaHA-treated limbs. Gross pathologic examination revealed considerably fewer and smaller adhesions when limbs were treated with NaHA. However, significant difference in pull-out strengths was not evident between NaHA-treated and control limbs. Histologically, the deep digital flexor tendon from the NaHA-treated limbs had reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, improved tendon structure, and less intratendinous hemorrhage. Treatment with methylcullulose had no significant

  8. High and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid differentially influence macrophage activation

    PubMed Central

    Rayahin, Jamie E.; Buhrman, Jason S.; Zhang, Yu; Koh, Timothy J.; Gemeinhart, Richard A.

    2015-01-01

    Macrophages exhibit phenotypic diversity permitting wide-ranging roles in maintaining physiologic homeostasis. Hyaluronic acid, a major glycosaminoglycan of the extracellular matrix, has been shown to have differential signaling based on its molecular weight. With this in mind, the main objective of this study was to elucidate the role of hyaluronic acid molecular weight on macrophage activation and reprogramming. Changes in macrophage activation were assessed by activation state selective marker measurement, specifically quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction, and cytokine enzyme-linked immunoassays, after macrophage treatment with differing molecular weights of hyaluronic acid under four conditions: the resting state, concurrent with classical activation, and following inflammation involving either classically or alternatively activated macrophages. Regardless of initial polarization state, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid induced a classically activated-like state, confirmed by up-regulation of pro-inflammatory genes, including nos2, tnf, il12b, and cd80, and enhanced secretion of nitric oxide and TNF-α. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid promoted an alternatively activated-like state, confirmed by up regulation of pro-resolving gene transcription, including arg1, il10, and mrc1, and enhanced arginase activity. Overall, our observations suggest that macrophages undergo phenotypic changes dependent on molecular weight of hyaluronan that correspond to either (1) pro-inflammatory response for low molecular weight HA or (2) pro-resolving response for high molecular weight HA. These observations bring significant further understanding of the influence of extracellular matrix polymers, hyaluronic acid in particular, on regulating the inflammatory response of macrophages. This knowledge can be used to guide the design of HA-containing biomaterials to better utilize the natural response to HAs. PMID:26280020

  9. A dietary supplement improves facial photoaging and skin sebum, hydration and tonicity modulating serum fibronectin, neutrophil elastase 2, hyaluronic acid and carbonylated proteins.

    PubMed

    Di Cerbo, Alessandro; Laurino, Carmen; Palmieri, Beniamino; Iannitti, Tommaso

    2015-03-01

    Excessive exposure to the sun can cause severe photoaging as early as the second decade of life resulting in a loss of physiological elastic fiber functions. We designed a first study to assess differences in facial skin pH, sebum, elasticity, hydration and tonicity and serum levels of fibronectin, elastin, neutrophil elastase 2, hyaluronic acid and carbonylated proteins between patients affected by facial photoaging and healthy controls. In a second study we tested the hypothesis that a dietary supplement would improve facial photoaging, also promoting changes in the above mentioned skin and serum parameters. In the first study we enrolled 30 women [age: 47.5 ± 1.6 years (mean ± standard error of the mean)] affected by moderate facial photoaging (4 cm ≤ Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)<7 cm) and 30 healthy women [age: 45.9 ± 1.6 years (mean ± standard error of the mean)]. In the second study we enrolled a cohort of 30 women [age: 43.6 ± 1.2 years (mean ± standard error of the mean)], affected by moderate (n = 22) and severe (VAS ≥ 7 cm; n = 8) facial photoaging, who were randomized to receive a pharmaceutical formulation (VISCODERM Pearls; IBSA FARMACEUTICI ITALIA Srl, Lodi, Italy) containing Pycnogenol, collagen, coenzyme Q10, low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate (n = 15) or placebo (n = 15). Dietary supplement and placebo were administered 2 times a day for 4 weeks. Facial photoaging was assessed by VAS in the first cohort of patients affected by facial photoaging and healthy controls and, at baseline and 2 weeks after the end of treatment, in the second cohort of patients who underwent treatment with VISCODERM Pearls and placebo. Skin Tester was used to analyze differences in facial skin parameters between patients affected by facial photoaging and healthy controls. Skin Tester was also used to assess the effect of VISCODERM Pearls on facial skin parameters and compared with placebo 2 weeks after the end of

  10. The role of serum hyaluronic acid determination in the diagnosis of liver fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Gudowska, Monika; Cylwik, Bogdan; Chrostek, Lech

    2017-01-01

    The common pathway leading to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis is growing deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). It results from molecular and histological rearrangement of collagens, glycoproteins and hyaluronans. Hyaluronic acid is a chief component of the extracellular matrix of connective tissues and plays the main structural role in the formation of ECM. The most important organ involved in the synthesis of hyaluronic acid is the liver. In this paper the meaning of hyaluronic acid in the diagnostics of liver diseases is discussed. Here, we focus on the described changes of hyaluronic acid concentration in the pathological processes of the liver, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver diseases. The results of published clinical studies have shown its high diagnostic sensitivity, which probably enables its application in laboratory diagnosis.

  11. [Anti-wrinkle creams with hyaluronic acid: how effective are they?].

    PubMed

    Poetschke, Julian; Schwaiger, Hannah; Steckmeier, Stephanie; Ruzicka, Thomas; Gauglitz, Gerd G

    2016-05-25

    Anti-wrinkle creams containing hyaluronic-acid are often advertised as an efficacious option for the treatment of wrinkles and have even been presented as an option equal to some medical procedures in this regard. Evidence from conclusive and systematic research supporting those claims, however, is widely lacking. During this trial we examined whether the daily use of anti-wrinkle creams containing hyaluronic-acid has an influence on the depth of wrinkles as well as skin tightness and elasticity. We split up 20 patients into four groups, each of which were assigned an anti-wrinkle cream containing hyaluronic acid for daily use. Four different creams within different price ranges were chosen (Balea, Nivea, Lancôme, Chanel). Before and after the 3 month trial, wrinkle depth was assessed using the PRIMOS(pico) (GFMesstechnik, Teltow, Germany) and skin-tightness and elasticity were evaluated using the Cutometer MP580 (Courage+Khazaka, Cologne, Germany). Additionally, after the trial, questionnaire data on patient satisfaction with their individual product was collected. The depth of perioral and orbital wrinkles decreased significantly in all groups, with depth reduction ranging between 10% and 20%. Skin-tightness increased significantly in all groups, rising by 13 to 30%. Minimal significant changes in skin-elasticity could only be shown in individual groups. The regular use of hyaluronic-acid containing anti-wrinkle creams for over 3 months showed clear and positive effects on wrinkle-depth and skin-tightness. Due to the design of the study, however, no clear indication on the efficacy of hyaluronic acid could be shown.

  12. High and Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid Differentially Regulate Human Fibrocyte Differentiation

    PubMed Central

    Maharjan, Anu S.; Pilling, Darrell; Gomer, Richard H.

    2011-01-01

    Background Following tissue injury, monocytes can enter the tissue and differentiate into fibroblast-like cells called fibrocytes, but little is known about what regulates this differentiation. Extracellular matrix contains high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMWHA; ∼2×106 Da). During injury, HMWHA breaks down to low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (LMWHA; ∼0.8–8×105 Da). Methods and Findings In this report, we show that HMWHA potentiates the differentiation of human monocytes into fibrocytes, while LMWHA inhibits fibrocyte differentiation. Digestion of HMWHA with hyaluronidase produces small hyaluronic acid fragments, and these fragments inhibit fibrocyte differentiation. Monocytes internalize HMWHA and LMWHA equally well, suggesting that the opposing effects on fibrocyte differentiation are not due to differential internalization of HMWHA or LMWHA. Adding HMWHA to PBMC does not appear to affect the levels of the hyaluronic acid receptor CD44, whereas adding LMWHA decreases CD44 levels. The addition of anti-CD44 antibodies potentiates fibrocyte differentiation, suggesting that CD44 mediates at least some of the effect of hyaluronic acid on fibrocyte differentiation. The fibrocyte differentiation-inhibiting factor serum amyloid P (SAP) inhibits HMWHA-induced fibrocyte differentiation and potentiates LMWHA-induced inhibition. Conversely, LMWHA inhibits the ability of HMWHA, interleukin-4 (IL-4), or interleukin-13 (IL-13) to promote fibrocyte differentiation. Conclusions We hypothesize that hyaluronic acid signals at least in part through CD44 to regulate fibrocyte differentiation, with a dominance hierarchy of SAP>LMWHA≥HMWHA>IL-4 or IL-13. PMID:22022512

  13. Electrophoretic deposition and electrochemical behavior of novel graphene oxide-hyaluronic acid-hydroxyapatite nanocomposite coatings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Ming; Liu, Qian; Jia, Zhaojun; Xu, Xuchen; Shi, Yuying; Cheng, Yan; Zheng, Yufeng; Xi, Tingfei; Wei, Shicheng

    2013-11-01

    Novel ternary graphene oxide-hyaluronic acid-hydroxyapatite (GO-HY-HA) nanocomposite coatings were prepared on Ti substrate using anodic electrophoretic deposition (EPD). Hyaluronic acid was employed as charging additive and dispersion agent during EPD. The kinetics and mechanism of the deposition, and the microstructure of the coated samples were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrum, thermo-gravimetric analysis, and microscopic Fourier transform infrared analysis. The results showed that the addition of GO sheets into the HY-HA suspensions could increase the deposition rate and inhibit cracks creation and propagation in the coatings. The corrosion resistant of the resulting samples were evaluated using potentiodynamic polarization method in simulated body fluid, and the GO-HY-HA coatings could effectively improve the anti-corrosion property of the Ti substrate.

  14. The effects of hyaluronic acid incorporated as a wetting agent on lysozyme denaturation in model contact lens materials.

    PubMed

    Weeks, Andrea; Boone, Adrienne; Luensmann, Doerte; Jones, Lyndon; Sheardown, Heather

    2013-09-01

    Conventional and silicone hydrogels as models for contact lenses were prepared to determine the effect of the presence of hyaluronic acid on lysozyme sorption and denaturation. Hyaluronic acid was loaded into poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/TRIS--methacryloxypropyltris (trimethylsiloxy silane) hydrogels, which served as models for conventional and silicone hydrogel contact lens materials. The hyaluronic acid was cross-linked using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide in the presence of dendrimers. Active lysozyme was quantified using a Micrococcus lysodeikticus assay while total lysozyme was determined using 125-I radiolabeled protein. To examine the location of hyaluronic acid in the gels, 6-aminofluorescein labeled hyaluronic acid was incorporated into the gels using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide chemistry and the gels were examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Hyaluronic acid incorporation significantly reduced lysozyme sorption in poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (p < 0.00001) and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/TRIS--methacryloxypropyltris (trimethylsiloxy silane) (p < 0.001) hydrogels, with the modified materials sorbing only 20% and 16% that of the control, respectively. More importantly, hyaluronic acid also decreased lysozyme denaturation in poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (p < 0.005) and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/TRIS--methacryloxypropyltris (trimethylsiloxy silane) (p < 0.02) hydrogels. The confocal laser scanning microscopy results showed that the hyaluronic acid distribution was dependent on both the material type and the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid. This study demonstrates that hyaluronic acid incorporated as a wetting agent has the potential to reduce lysozyme sorption and denaturation in contact lens applications. The distribution of hyaluronic acid within hydrogels appears to affect denaturation, with more surface mobile, lower

  15. Determination of the presence of hyaluronic acid in preparations containing amino acids: the molecular weight characterization.

    PubMed

    Bellomaria, A; Nepravishta, R; Mazzanti, U; Marchetti, M; Piccioli, P; Paci, M

    2014-10-15

    Several pharmaceutical preparations contain hyaluronic acid in the presence of a large variety of low molecular weight charged molecules like amino acids. In these mixtures, it is particularly difficult to determine the concentration and the molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid fragments. In fact zwitterionic compounds in high concentration behave by masking the hyaluronic acid due to the electrostatic interactions between amino acids and hyaluronic acid. In such conditions the common colorimetric test of the hyaluronic acid determination appears ineffective and in the (1)H NMR spectra the peaks of the polymer disappear completely. By a simple separation procedure the presence of hyaluronic acid was revealed by the DMAB test and (1)H NMR while its average molecular weight in the final product was determined by DOSY NMR spectroscopy alone. The latter determination is very important due to the healthy effects of some sizes of this polymer's fragments. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Alpha-2-macroglobulin and hyaluronic acid as fibromarkers in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

    PubMed

    Pitekova, B; Kupcova, V; Uhlikova, E; Mojto, V; Turecky, L

    2017-01-01

    Liver fibrosis is the final common pathway of chronic liver diseases of various etiology. From the practical standpoint, it would be ideal to have a noninvasive fibromarker. The aim of our study was to investigate the levels of alpha-2-macroglobulin, potential fibromarker, in correlation to histological staging and another potential fibromarker, hyaluronic acid, in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Population groups in this study consisted of 51 healthy volunteers and 54 patients with chronic hepatitis C. Liver biopsies were obtained under ultrasound guidance. Alpha-2-macroglobulin was determined by electroimmunodiffusion and hyaluronic acid with enzyme-linked binding protein assay. Both potential fibromarkers, alpha-2-macroglobulin and hyaluronic acid, were increased in patients with chronic hepatitis C. The alpha-2-macroglobulin levels were not significantly increased in the groups F0-F1. In the groups F2-F4, alpha-2-macroglobulin levels were significantly higher than in the control group. The changes of hyaluronic acid were similar to changes of alpha-2-macroglobulin. Regression analysis showed a significant correlation between hyaluronic acid and alpha-2-macroglobulin levels. According to the results of our study, it can be concluded that alpha-2-macroglobulin and hyaluronic acid might be useful markers of liver fibrosis (Tab. 2, Ref. 15).

  17. The use of hyaluronic and aminocaproic acid in the treatment of alveolar osteitis.

    PubMed

    Dubovina, Dejan; Mihailović, Branko; Bukumirić, Zoran; Vlahović, Zoran; Miladinović, Milan; Miković, Nikola; Lazić, Zoran

    2016-11-01

    Alveolar osteitis (AO), also known as “dry socket”, is relatively common post-extraction complication. It probably occurs due to excessive fibrinolytic activity in the coagulum and is characterized by intense pain sensations. The aim of this clinical study was to examine the role of hyaluronic acid and aminocaproic acid in the treatment of AO. The study included 60 patients with the clinical diagnosis of AO. All the patients were divided into two groups of 30 patients each according to the applied non-pharmacological measure: irrigation – irrigation of dry socket with sterile saline; curettage – careful curettage. Both of these groups were further divided into three subgroups regarding the applied treatment (hyaluronic acid; hyaluronic acid + aminocaproic acid; Alvogyl ®, an anesthetic and antiseptic paste), each with 10 patients, according to the following protocol: 0.2 mL of hyaluronic acid in the form of a 0.8% gel; 2 mL of aminocaproic acid and hyaluronic acid; Alvogyl®. During each visit, scheduled for every two days until complete absence of painful sensations, the patients had the therapeutic method repeated as at the first examination. At each control visit the number of present symptoms and signs of AO was recorded, as well as the level of pain (measured with a visual analogue scale). With the use of hyaluronic acid, with or without aminocaproic one, a statistically significantly faster reduction in pain sensations was achieved, along with the reduction in the number of symptoms and signs of AO compared to the use of Alvogyl®. Hyaluronic acid, applied alone or in combination with aminocaproic acid significantly reduces pain sensation, thus it can be successfully used in the treatment of AO.

  18. The influence of polymeric component of bioactive glass-based nanocomposite paste on its rheological behaviors and in vitro responses: hyaluronic acid versus sodium alginate.

    PubMed

    Sohrabi, Mehri; Hesaraki, Saeed; Kazemzadeh, Asghar

    2014-04-01

    Different biocomposite pastes were prepared from a solid phase that was nanoparticles of sol-gel-derived bioactive glass and different liquid phases including 3% hyaluronic acid solution, sodium alginate solutions (3% and 10 %) or mixtures of hyaluronic acid and sodium alginate (3% or 10 %) solutions in 50:50 volume ratio. Rheological properties of the pastes were measured in both rotatory and oscillatory modes. The washout behavior and in vitro apatite formation of the pastes were determined by soaking them in simulated body fluid under dynamic situation for 14 days. The proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity of MG-63 osteoblastic cells were also determined using extracts of the pastes. All pastes could be easily injected from the standard syringes with different tip diameters. All pastes exhibited visco-elastic character, but a nonthixotropic paste was obtained using hyaluronic acid in which the loss modulus was higher than the storage modulus. The thixotropy and storage modulus were increasingly improved by adding/using sodium alginate as mixing liquid. Moreover, the pastes in which the liquid phase was sodium alginate or mixture of hyaluronic acid and 10% sodium alginate solution revealed better apatite formation ability and washout resistance than that made of hyaluronic acid alone. No cytotoxicity effects were observed by extracts of the pastes on osteoblasts but better alkaline phosphatase activity was found for the pastes containing hyaluronic acid. Overall, injectable biocomposites can be produced by mixing bioactive glass nanoparticles and sodium alginate/hyaluronic acid polymers. They are potentially useful for hard and even soft tissues treatments. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  19. Cashew apple juice as microbial cultivation medium for non-immunogenic hyaluronic acid production.

    PubMed

    Oliveira, Adriano H; Ogrodowski, Cristiane C; de Macedo, André C; Santana, Maria Helena A; Gonçalves, Luciana R B

    2013-12-01

    In this work, natural cashew apple juice was used as cultivation medium as an alternative to substitute brain heart infusion medium. The effect of aeration and juice supplementation with yeast extract on the production of hyaluronic acid in batch fermentation was also investigated. Similar levels of cell mass were obtained in inoculum using cashew apple juice supplemented with yeast extract or the conventional brain heart infusion medium. Fermentation in Erlenmeyer flasks produced low biomass and hyaluronic acid concentrations. The hyaluronic acid concentration and viscosity increased from 0.15 g/L and 3.87 cP (no aeration or medium supplementation) to 1.76 g/L and 107 cP, when aeration (2 vvm) and 60 g/L of yeast extract were used. The results suggest the production of low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid oligomers instead of the high molecular weight polymer.

  20. Cashew apple juice as microbial cultivation medium for non-immunogenic hyaluronic acid production

    PubMed Central

    Oliveira, Adriano H.; Ogrodowski, Cristiane C.; de Macedo, André C.; Santana, Maria Helena A.; Gonçalves, Luciana R.B.

    2013-01-01

    In this work, natural cashew apple juice was used as cultivation medium as an alternative to substitute brain heart infusion medium. The effect of aeration and juice supplementation with yeast extract on the production of hyaluronic acid in batch fermentation was also investigated. Similar levels of cell mass were obtained in inoculum using cashew apple juice supplemented with yeast extract or the conventional brain heart infusion medium. Fermentation in Erlenmeyer flasks produced low biomass and hyaluronic acid concentrations. The hyaluronic acid concentration and viscosity increased from 0.15 g/L and 3.87 cP (no aeration or medium supplementation) to 1.76 g/L and 107 cP, when aeration (2 vvm) and 60 g/L of yeast extract were used. The results suggest the production of low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid oligomers instead of the high molecular weight polymer. PMID:24688498

  1. Characterization of hyaluronate binding proteins isolated from 3T3 and murine sarcoma virus transformed 3T3 cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Turley, E.A.; Moore, D.; Hayden, L.J.

    1987-06-02

    A hyaluronic acid binding fraction was purified from the supernatant media of both 3T3 and murine sarcoma virus (MSV) transformed 3T3 cultures by hyaluronate and immunoaffinity chromatography. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis resolved the hyaluronate affinity-purified fraction into three major protein bands of estimated molecular weight (M/sub r,e/) 70K, 66K, and 56K which contained hyaluronate binding activity and which were termed hyaluronate binding proteins (HABP). Hyaluronate affinity chromatography combined with immunoaffinity chromatography, using antibody directed against the larger HABP, allowed a 20-fold purification of HABP. Fractions isolated from 3T3 supernatant medium also contained additional binding molecules in the molecular weightmore » range of 20K. This material was present in vanishingly small amounts and was not detected with a silver stain or with (/sup 35/S)methionine label. The three protein species isolated by hyaluronate affinity chromatography (M/sub r,e/ 70K, 66K, and 56K) were related to one another since they shared antigenic determinants and exhibited similar pI values. In isocratic conditions, HABP occurred as aggregates of up to 580 kilodaltons. Their glycoprotein nature was indicated by their incorporation of /sup 3/H-sugars. Enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay showed they were antigenically distinct from other hyaluronate binding proteins such as fibronectin, cartilage link protein, and the hyaluronate binding region of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan. The results are discussed with regard both to the functional significance of hyaluronate-cell surface interactions in transformed as well as normal cells and to the relationship of HABP to other reported hyaluronate binding proteins.« less

  2. Sedimentation properties in density gradients correspond with levels of sperm DNA fragmentation, chromatin compaction and binding affinity to hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Torabi, Forough; Binduraihem, Adel; Miller, David

    2017-03-01

    Mature spermatozoa bind hyaluronic acid in the extracellular matrix via hyaladherins. Immature spermatozoa may be unable to interact because they do not express the appropriate hyaladherins on their surface. Fresh human semen samples were fractionated using differential density gradient centrifugation (DDGC) and the ability of these fractions to bind hyaluronic acid was evaluated. The presence of sperm hyaladherins was also assessed. CD44 was located mainly on the acrosome and equatorial segment and became more restricted to the equatorial segment in capacitated spermatozoa. Hyaluronic acid-TRITC (hyaluronic acid conjugated with tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanante), a generic hyaluronic-acid-binding reagent, labelled the membrane and the neck region, particularly after capacitation. Sperm populations obtained after DDGC or after interaction with hyaluronic acid were assessed for DNA fragmentation and chromatin maturity. Strong relationships between both measures and sperm sedimentation and hyaluronic-acid-binding profiles were revealed. Capacitation enhanced hyaluronic acid binding of both DDGC-pelleted sperm and sperm washed free of seminal fluid. In conclusion, hyaladherins were detected on human sperm and a higher capacity for sperm hyaluronic-acid-binding was shown to correspond with their DDGC sedimentation profiles and with lower levels of DNA fragmentation and better chromatin maturity. Capacitation induced changes in the distribution and presence of hyaladherins may enhance hyaluronic-acid-binding. Copyright © 2016 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Treatment of Stress Velopharyngeal Incompetence With Injection of Hyaluronic Acid.

    PubMed

    Koprowski, Steven; VanLue, Michael J; McCormick, Michael E

    2018-04-01

    Stress velopharyngeal incompetence (VPI) is a challenging clinical entity that can be managed by a variety of surgical and nonsurgical approaches. We describe the case of a clarinetist who presented with nasal air escape while playing. She had successful improvement in her symptoms after targeted injection of a hyaluronic acid compound to her posterior pharyngeal wall. Our objective is to describe the safety and efficacy of this technique, to emphasize the multidisciplinary management of patients with stress VPI, and to review the importance of both nasopharyngoscopy and videofluoroscopy in their evaluation.

  4. Human Growth Factor Cream and Hyaluronic Acid Serum in Conjunction with Micro Laser Peel

    PubMed Central

    Katz, Bruce E.; Cohen, Joel L.; Biron, Julie

    2010-01-01

    The present study investigated the use of a novel hyaluronic acid serum in combination with a cream comprising a mixture of human growth factors in conjunction with the micro laser peel procedure for skin rejuvenation. After preconditioning the face with the hyaluronic acid serum followed by the cream twice daily for one month, 15 female volunteers between 35 to 65 years of age with demonstrable facial wrinkling received a micro laser peel on the entire face using an erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet laser. Immediately following the laser procedure, the subjects applied the test products twice daily until the second laser peel one month later. Immediately following the second procedure, the subjects reapplied the test products for another month. In the large majority of subjects, erythema or edema, crusts or erosions, and transitory stinging or burning sensations after the micro laser peel were minimal or mild when the skin was treated with the serum followed by the cream. The micro laser peel in conjunction with the test products helped to significantly improve hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and texture as compared to before treatment. This study with the micro laser peel device demonstrated that a novel hyaluronic acid serum combined with the human growth factor cream can be successfully used for skin rejuvenation in conjunction with light-to-medium invasive laser skin treatments. PMID:21203354

  5. Study of FibroTest and hyaluronic acid biological variation in healthy volunteers and comparison of serum hyaluronic acid biological variation between chronic liver diseases of different etiology and fibrotic stage using confidence intervals.

    PubMed

    Istaces, Nicolas; Gulbis, Béatrice

    2015-07-01

    Personalized ranges of liver fibrosis serum biomarkers such as FibroTest or hyaluronic acid could be used for early detection of fibrotic changes in patients with progressive chronic liver disease. Our aim was to generate reliable biological variation estimates for these two biomarkers with confidence intervals for within-subject biological variation and reference change value. Nine fasting healthy volunteers and 66 chronic liver disease patients were included. Biological variation estimates were calculated for FibroTest in healthy volunteers, and for hyaluronic acid in healthy volunteers and chronic liver disease patients stratified by etiology and liver fibrosis stage. In healthy volunteers, within-subject biological coefficient of variation (with 95% confidence intervals) and index of individuality were 20% (16%-28%) and 0.6 for FibroTest and 34% (27%-47%) and 0.79 for hyaluronic acid, respectively. Overall hyaluronic acid within-subject biological coefficient of variation was similar among non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic hepatitis C with 41% (34%-52%) and 45% (39%-55%), respectively, in contrast to chronic hepatitis B with 170% (140%-215%). Hyaluronic acid within-subject biological coefficients of variation were similar between F0-F1, F2 and F3 liver fibrosis stages in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with 34% (25%-49%), 41% (31%-59%) and 34% (23%-62%), respectively, and in chronic hepatitis C with 34% (27%-47%), 33% (26%-45%) and 38% (27%-65%), respectively. However, corresponding hyaluronic acid indexes of individuality were lower in the higher fibrosis stages. Non-overlapping confidence intervals of biological variation estimates allowed us to detect significant differences regarding hyaluronic acid biological variation between chronic liver disease subgroups. Copyright © 2015 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Intravenous Hyaluronidase with Urokinase as Treatment for Rabbit Retinal Artery Hyaluronic Acid Embolism.

    PubMed

    Chiang, ChengAn; Zhou, ShuangBai; Chen, ChuHsin; Ho, Dave S; Zhang, HuiZhong; Liu, Kai

    2016-12-01

    Although various salvage methods have been proposed to treat intraretinal artery hyaluronic acid embolism, their applications are still limited by various factors. The authors investigated the effectiveness of intravenous hyaluronidase with urokinase for resolving retinal artery hyaluronic acid embolism. The anatomy of rabbit ophthalmic and fundus arteries (retinal and choroid artery) was studied. Approximately 0.35 ml of hyaluronic acid was injected into the ophthalmic artery to create a retinal artery embolism model. The rabbits were grouped randomly (groups A, B, C, D, E, and F) and given hyaluronidase with urokinase intravenously at different postobstruction time points (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 minutes). Saline was given to the control group. Fundus vascular (retinal and choroid artery) reperfusion status and the effectiveness of the solution on the obstruction of each group were observed for 5 days. The animal model closely imitated actual hyaluronic acid ophthalmic/retinal artery obstructions. Three vascular conditions were observed after hyaluronidase with urokinase injection: total, partial, and no reperfusion. Groups A, B, and C showed a significantly higher overall solution effectiveness rate (total/partial reperfusion) compared with the control group (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.005, respectively). Solution effectiveness in groups D, E, and F showed no difference compared with the control group (p = 0.628, p = 1.000, and p = 1.000, respectively). The effectiveness of the solution drops dramatically if given after 30 minutes of obstruction. The authors' method can indeed help resolve retinal artery hyaluronic acid obstruction. Intravenous hyaluronidase with urokinase technique shows possible potential to become a standardized treatment protocol for intraretinal artery hyaluronic acid embolism with further clinical tests.

  7. Production and characterization of hyaluronic acid microparticles for the controlled delivery of growth factors using a spray/dehydration method.

    PubMed

    Babo, Pedro S; Reis, Rui L; Gomes, Manuela E

    2016-11-01

    Hyaluronic acid is the main polysaccharide present in the connective tissue. Besides its structural function as backbone of the extracellular matrix, hyaluronic acid plays staple roles in several biological processes including the modulation of inflammation and wound healing processes. The application of hyaluronic acid in regenerative medicine, either as cells and/or drug/growth factors delivery vehicles, relies on its ability to be cross-linked using a plethora of reactions, producing stable hydrogels. In this work, we propose a novel method for the production of hyaluronic acid microparticles that presents several advantages over others that have been used. Basically, droplets of hyaluronic acid solution produced with a nozzle are collected in an isopropanol dehydration bath, and stabilized after crosslinking with adipic acid dihydrazide, using a cabodiimide-based chemistry. The size and morphology of the hyaluronic acid microparticles produced by this method varied with the molecular weight and concentration of the hyaluronic acid solution, the nozzle chamber pressure, the distance between the nozzle and the crosslinking solution, and the number of crosslinking steps. The degree of crosslinking of the hyaluronic acid microparticles produced was tunable and allowed to control the rate of the degradation promoted by hyaluronidase. Moreover, the particles were loaded with platelet lysate, a hemoderivative rich in cytokines with interest for regenerative medicine applications. The hyaluronic acid microparticles showed potential to bind selectively to positively charged molecules, as the factors present in the platelet lysate. It is envisioned that these can be further released in a sustained manner by ion exchange or by the degradation of the hyaluronic acid microparticles matrix promoted by extracellular matrix remodeling. © The Author(s) 2016.

  8. Biocompatibility Assessment of Novel Collagen-Sericin Scaffolds Improved with Hyaluronic Acid and Chondroitin Sulfate for Cartilage Regeneration

    PubMed Central

    Gălăţeanu, Bianca; Albu, Mădălina

    2013-01-01

    Cartilage tissue engineering (CTE) applications are focused towards the use of implantable biohybrids consisting of biodegradable scaffolds combined with in vitro cultured cells. Hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) were identified as the most potent prochondrogenic factors used to design new biomaterials for CTE, while human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) were proved to display high chondrogenic potential. In this context, our aim was not only to build novel 3D porous scaffolds based on natural compounds but also to evaluate their in vitro biological performances. Therefore, for prospective CTE, collagen-sericin (Coll-SS) scaffolds improved with HA (5% or 10%) and CS (5% or 10%) were used as temporary physical supports for ASCs and were analyzed in terms of structural, thermal, morphological, and swelling properties and cytotoxic potential. To complete biocompatibility data, ASCs viability and proliferation potential were also assessed. Our studies revealed that Coll-SS hydrogels improved with 10% HA and 5% CS displayed the best biological performances in terms of cell viability, proliferation, morphology, and distribution. Thus, further work will address a novel 3D system including both HA 10% and CS 5% glycoproteins, which will probably be exposed to prochondrogenic conditions in order to assess its potential use in CTE applications. PMID:24308001

  9. [Intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid for anterior disc displacement of temporomandibular joint].

    PubMed

    Long, X

    2017-03-09

    Anterior disc displacement (ADD) of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is regarded as one of the major findings in temporomandibular disorders (TMD). It is related to joint noise, pain, mandibular dysfunction, degenerative change and osteoarthritis. In the mean time, the pathological changes were found in synovial membrane and synovial fluid. Hyaluronic acid is a principal component of the synovial fluid which plays an important role in nutrition, lubrication, anti-inflammation and cartilage repair. The synthesis, molecule weight, and concentration of hyaluronic acid are decreased during TMD and cause TMJ degenerative changes. The clinical conditions, pathological changes, the mechanism of action for hyaluronic acid and the treatment of anterior disc displacement of TMJ are discussed in this article.

  10. Effectiveness of hyaluronic acid in post-tonsillectomy pain relief and wound healing: a prospective, double-blind, controlled clinical study.

    PubMed

    Hancı, Deniz; Altun, Huseyin

    2015-09-01

    To find the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid in post-tonsillectomy pain relief and wound healing. Fifty patients were included in this prospective, double-blind, controlled clinical study (20 males, 30 females mean age of 13.56 years). Hyaluronic acid was applied to one side and the other side was used as a control during tonsillectomy. Therefore, the same patient evaluated and scored the post-tonsillectomy pain, excluding individual bias. Results indicated that patients had significantly lower pain scores for hyaluronic acid treated side (p<0.001). At the end of two weeks follow-up period, the wound in the hyaluronic acid side was almost completely healed, indicating that the healing was faster with hyaluronic acid compared to control side (p<0.001). Hyaluronic acid could be recommended as an effective treatment for the management of post-tonsillectomy pain and wound healing. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

  11. Joint lavage followed by intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid and/or corticosteroids in patients with severe hemophilic arthropathy of the knee: Is this intervention really effective?

    PubMed

    Rodriguez-Merchan, E Carlos; Valentino, Leonard A

    2018-05-10

    The aim of this review is to explore the scientific rationale and evidence for a potential benefit of joint lavage followed by intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid and/or corticosteroids in patients with severe hemophilic arthropathy of the knee (SHAK). Areas covered: This article is a narrative review of the evidence for potential benefits of joint lavage followed by intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids in SHAK compared with osteoarthritis of the knee in non-hemophilia patients. Expert commentary: Although some reports on hemophilic arthropathy with a low-grade of evidence seem to indicate a benefit of joint lavage followed by intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid and/or corticosteroids in patients with SHAK, the short-lived improvements afforded by hyaluronic acid, and the doubtful benefits of corticosteroids and joint lavage in hemophilia, do not warrant their use in hemophilic patients. The scientific rationale of these procedures is poor and they are not recommended.

  12. [Crosslinking sodium hyaluronate gel with different ratio of molecular weight for subcutaneous injection: animal experimental study and clinical trials subcutaneous injection].

    PubMed

    Ran, Weizhi; Wang, Xiaoli; Hu, Yuefei; Gao, Songying; Yang, Yahong; Sun, Jian; Sun, Shuming; Liu, Zhongmei; Wang, Jiangling

    2015-05-01

    To investigate the biocompatibility and degradation rate of crosslinking sodium hyaluronate gel with different ratio of molecular weight, so as to choose the effective, safe and totally degraded hyaluronate gel for aesthetic injection. (1) Compound colloid was formed by cross-linking the divinyl sulphone and sodium hyaluronate with different molecular weight (4 x 10(5), 8 x 10(5), 10 x 10(5), 12 x 10(5)). (2) Healthy level KM mice was randomly divided into two groups to receive hyaluronic acid gel or liquid injection. Each group was subdivided into three subgroup to receive hyaluronic acid with different molecular weight. The biocompatibility and degradation rate, of hyaluronate were observed at 7, 90, 180 days after injection. At the same time, different molecular weight of sodium hyaluronate gel is sealed or exposed respectively under the low temperature preservation to observe its natural degradation rate. (3) The most stable colloid was selected as aesthetic injector for volunteers to observe the aesthetic effect. The sodium hyaluronate gel with molecular of 4 x 10(5) was completely degraded 90 days later. The sodium hyaluronate gel with molecular of 8 x 10(5) was completely degraded 180 days later. The sodium hyaluronate gel with molecular of 10 x 10(5) was degraded to 90.0% after 180 days. The sodium hyaluronate liquid can be degraded completely within 7 days. The colloid could be kept for at least 12 months when sealed under low temperature, but was totally degraded when exposed for I d. Sodium hyaluronate gel with molecular 10 x 10(5) was confirmed to be kept for at least 6 months in animal experiment and clinical trials. Under the same condition of material ratio, the higher the molecular weight is, the lower the degradation rate is. But the liquidity of gel is not good for injection when molecular weight is too large. It suggests that Sodium hyaluronate gel with molecular 10 x 10(5) maybe the best choice in cosmetic injections.

  13. Alginate Microcapsules Incorporating Hyaluronic Acid Recreate Closer in Vivo Environment for Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

    PubMed

    Cañibano-Hernández, Alberto; Saenz Del Burgo, Laura; Espona-Noguera, Albert; Orive, Gorka; Hernández, Rosa M; Ciriza, Jesús; Pedraz, Jose Luis

    2017-07-03

    The potential clinical application of alginate cell microencapsulation has advanced enormously during the past decade. However, the 3D environment created by alginate beads does not mimic the natural extracellular matrix surrounding cells in vivo, responsible of cell survival and functionality. As one of the most frequent macromolecules present in the extracellular matrix is hyaluronic acid, we have formed hybrid beads with alginate and hyaluronic acid recreating a closer in vivo cell environment. Our results show that 1% alginate-0.25% hyaluronic acid microcapsules retain 1.5% alginate physicochemical properties. Moreover, mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated in these hybrid beads show enhanced viability therapeutic protein release and mesenchymal stem cells' potential to differentiate into chondrogenic lineage. Although future studies with additional proteins need to be done in order to approach even more the extracellular matrix features, we have shown that hyaluronic acid protects alginate encapsulated mesenchymal stem cells by providing a niche-like environment and remaining them competent as a sustainable drug delivery system.

  14. Utilizing hyaluronic acid as a versatile platform for fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based glucose sensing.

    PubMed

    Ge, Minghao; Bai, Pengli; Chen, Mingli; Tian, Jingjing; Hu, Jun; Zhi, Xu; Yin, Huancai; Yin, Jian

    2018-03-01

    Here, we utilized the ultrasonic emulsification technique to generate hyaluronic acid microspheres incorporating a fluorescence-based glucose biosensor. We synthesized a novel lanthanide ion luminophore based on Eu 3+ . Eu sulfosuccinimidyl dextran (Eu-dextran) and Alexa Fluor 647 sulfosuccinimidyl-ConA (Alexa Fluor 647-ConA) were encapsulated in hyaluronic acid hydrogel to generate microspheres. Glucose sensing was carried out using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based assay principle. A proportional fluorescence intensity increase was found within a 0.5-10-mM glucose concentration range. The glucose-sensing strategy showed an excellent tolerance for potential interferents. Meanwhile, the fluorescent signal of hyaluronic acid microspheres was very stable after testing for 72 h in glucose solution. Overall, hyaluronic acid microspheres encapsulating sensing biomolecules offer a stable and biocompatible biosensor for a variety of applications including cell culture systems, tissue engineering, detection of blood glucose, etc. Graphical abstract We report an ingenious biosensor encapsulated in hyaluronic acid microspheres for monitoring of glucose. Glucose sensing is carried out using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based assay principle with a novel lanthanide ions luminophore. The glucose detection system has excellent biocompatibility and stability for monitoring of glucose.

  15. Influence of D-Penicillamine on the Viscosity of Hyaluronic Acid Solutions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liang, Jing; Krause, Wendy E.; Colby, Ralph H.

    2006-03-01

    Polyelectrolyte hyaluronic acid (HA, hyaluronan) is an important component in synovial fluid. Its presence results in highly viscoelastic solutions with excellent lubricating and shock-absorbing properties. In comparison to healthy synovial fluid, diseased fluid has a reduced viscosity. In osteoarthritis this reduction in viscosity results from a decline in both the molecular weight and concentration of hyaluronic acid HA. Initial results indicate that D-penicillamine affects the rheology of bovine synovial fluid, a model synovial fluid solution, and its components, including HA. In order to understand how D-penicillamine modifies the viscosity of these solutions, the rheological properties of sodium hyaluronate (NaHA) in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) with D-penicillamine were studied as function of time, D-penicillamine concentration (0 -- 0.01 M), and storage conditions. Penicillamine has a complex, time dependent effect on the viscosity of NaHA solutions---reducing the zero shear rate viscosity of a 3 mg/mL NaHA in PBS by ca. 40% after 44 days.

  16. Effects of molecular weight of hyaluronic acid on its viscosity and enzymatic activities of lysozyme and peroxidase.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jihoon; Chang, Ji-Youn; Kim, Yoon-Young; Kim, Moon-Jong; Kho, Hong-Seop

    2018-05-01

    To investigate the effects of the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid on its viscosity and enzymatic activities of lysozyme and peroxidase in solution and on the hydroxyapatite surface. Hyaluronic acids of four different molecular weights (10 kDa, 100 kDa, 1 MDa, and 2 MDa), hen egg-white lysozyme, bovine lactoperoxidase, and human whole saliva were used. Viscosity values of hyaluronic acids were measured using a cone-and-plate viscometer at six different concentrations (0.1-5.0 mg/mL). Enzymatic activities of lysozyme and peroxidase were examined by hydrolysis of fluorescein-labeled Micrococcus lysodeikticus and oxidation of fluorogenic 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein to fluorescing 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein, respectively. In solution assays, only 2 MDa-hyaluronic acid significantly inhibited lysozyme activities in saliva. In surface assays, hyaluronic acids inhibited lysozyme and peroxidase activities; the inhibitory activities were more apparent with high-molecular-weight ones in saliva than in purified enzymes. The 100 kDa-hyaluronic acid at 5.0 mg/mL, 1 MDa-one at 0.5 mg/mL, and 2 MDa-one at 0.2 mg/mL showed viscosity values similar to those of human whole saliva at a shear rate range required for normal oral functions. The differences among the influences of the three conditions on the enzymatic activities were not statistically significant. High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acids at low concentration and low-molecular-weight ones at high concentration showed viscosity values similar to those of human whole saliva. Inhibitory effects of hyaluronic acids on lysozyme and peroxidase activities were more significant with high-molecular-weight ones on the surface and in saliva compared with in solution and on purified enzymes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Hyaluronic Acid Conjugated Magnetic Prussian Blue@Quantum Dot Nanoparticles for Cancer Theranostics

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Yongbo; Jing, Lijia; Li, Xiaoda; Lin, Li; Yue, Xiuli; Dai, Zhifei

    2017-01-01

    A multifunctional nanotheranostic agent was developed by conjugating both hyaluronic acid and bovine serum albumin coated CuInS2-ZnS quantum dots onto the surface of magnetic Prussian blue nanoparticles. The obtained nanoagent could serve as an efficient contrast agent to simultaneously enhance near infrared (NIR) fluorescence and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging greatly. The coexistence of magnetic core and CD44 ligand hyaluronic acid was found to largely improve the specific uptake of the nanoagent by CD44 overexpressed HeLa cells upon applying an external magnetic field. Both NIR fluorescence and MR imaging in vivo proved high accumulation of the nanoagent at tumor site due to its excellent CD44 receptor/magnetic dual targeting capability. After intravenous injection of the nanoagent and treatment of external magnetic field, the tumor in nude mice was efficiently ablated upon NIR laser irradiation and the tumor growth inhibition was more than 89.95%. Such nanotheranostic agent is of crucial importance for accurately identifying the size and location of the tumor before therapy, monitoring the photothermal treatment procedure in real-time during therapy, assessing the effectiveness after therapy. PMID:28255343

  18. A new viscosupplement based on partially hydrophobic hyaluronic acid: a comparative study.

    PubMed

    Finelli, Ivana; Chiessi, Ester; Galesso, Devis; Renier, Davide; Paradossi, Gaio

    2011-01-01

    A novel partially hydrophobized derivative of hyaluronic acid (HYADD® 4), containing a low number of C16 side-chains per polysaccharide backbone, provides injectable hydrogels stabilized by side-chain hydrophobic interactions. The rheological properties of Hymovis®, a physical hydrogel based on the hyaluronic acid derivative HYADD® 4, were evaluated using as reference a solution of the parent natural polysaccharide, hyaluronic acid. The rheological measurements were performed both in flow and oscillation regimes at the physiological frequency values of the knee, typically spanning the range from 0.5 Hz (walking frequency) to 3 Hz (running frequency). Moreover, the viscoelastic features of Hymovis® were compared with the market-available viscosupplementation products in view of its use in joint diseases.The different behavior of the investigated materials in crossover frequency measurements and in structure recovery experiments can be explained on the basis of the structural and dynamic properties of the polymeric systems.

  19. [Treatment of interstitial cystitis by intravesical instillation of hyaluronic acid: A prospective study on 31 patients].

    PubMed

    Van Agt, S; Gobet, F; Sibert, L; Leroi, A-M; Grise, P

    2011-03-01

    We evaluate the efficacy of hyaluronate acid instillation for treatment of interstitial cystitis (IC). From March 2008 to May 2009, a prospective study included 31 patients. We used the new definition of IC established by the ICS in 2002. Patients have a urinalysis, a cystoscopy, a hydrodistension test and bladder biopsies. The urodynamic evaluation was not systematic. Patients received weekly six instillations of 40mg (50ml) intravesical hyaluronate acid. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of treatment with two specific questionnaires of interstitial cystitis filled before and after 6 weeks of treatment: the O'Leary-Sant and Pelvic pain and Urgency/Frequency (PUF). Four groups were defined: good response, partial response, poor response and no response. They were composed by 14 patients (45%), two (7%), seven (22%) and eight patients (26%). We obtained 52% positive response (good response and partial response) after 6 weeks of treatment. Patients with cystoscopy and histology abnormal had a response rate of 60%. No serious side effects were observed. Hyaluronate acid has a place in the treatment of interstitial cystitis with an efficiency comparable to other treatments and good tolerance. The response rate to treatment can be improved by better selection of patients, particularly those having a cystoscopy and histology abnormal. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  20. Hyaluronic acid for anticancer drug and nucleic acid delivery.

    PubMed

    Dosio, Franco; Arpicco, Silvia; Stella, Barbara; Fattal, Elias

    2016-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely used in anticancer drug delivery, since it is biocompatible, biodegradable, non-toxic, and non-immunogenic; moreover, HA receptors are overexpressed on many tumor cells. Exploiting this ligand-receptor interaction, the use of HA is now a rapidly-growing platform for targeting CD44-overexpressing cells, to improve anticancer therapies. The rationale underlying approaches, chemical strategies, and recent advances in the use of HA to design drug carriers for delivering anticancer agents, are reviewed. Comprehensive descriptions are given of HA-based drug conjugates, particulate carriers (micelles, liposomes, nanoparticles, microparticles), inorganic nanostructures, and hydrogels, with particular emphasis on reports of preclinical/clinical results. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Design of aqueous two-phase systems for purification of hyaluronic acid produced by metabolically engineered Lactococcus lactis.

    PubMed

    Rajendran, Vivek; Puvendran, Kirubhakaran; Guru, Bharath Raja; Jayaraman, Guhan

    2016-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid has a wide range of biomedical applications and its commercial value is highly dependent on its purity and molecular weight. This study highlights the utility of aqueous two-phase separation as a primary recovery step for hyaluronic acid and for removal of major protein impurities from fermentation broths. Metabolically engineered cultures of a lactate dehydrogenase mutant strain of Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis NZ9020) were used to produce high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid. The cell-free fermentation broth was partially purified using a polyethylene glycol/potassium phosphate system, resulting in nearly 100% recovery of hyaluronic acid in the salt-rich bottom phase in all the aqueous two-phase separation experiments. These experiments were optimized for maximum removal of protein impurities in the polyethylene glycol rich top phase. The removal of protein impurities resulted in substantial reduction of membrane fouling in the subsequent diafiltration process, carried out with a 300 kDa polyether sulfone membrane. This step resulted in considerable purification of hyaluronic acid, without any loss in recovery and molecular weight. Diafiltration was followed by an adsorption step to remove minor impurities and achieve nearly 100% purity. The final hyaluronic acid product was characterized by Fourier-transform IR and NMR spectroscopy, confirming its purity. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF-Endoret) stimulates tendon and synovial fibroblasts migration and improves the biological properties of hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Anitua, E; Sanchez, M; De la Fuente, M; Zalduendo, M M; Orive, G

    2012-09-01

    Cell migration plays an essential role in development, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF-Endoret) technology offers a potential source of growth factors involved in tissue regeneration. Here, we evaluate the potential of PRGF-Endoret over tendon cells and synovial fibroblasts migration and study whether the combination of this autologous technology with hyaluronic acid (HA) improves the effect and potential of the biomaterials over the motility of both types of fibroblasts. Migration of primary tendon cells and synovial fibroblasts after culturing with either PRGF or PPGF (plasma poor in growth factors) at different doses was evaluated. Furthermore, the migratory capacity induced by the combination of PPGF and PRGF with HA was tested. PPGF stimulated migration of both types of cells but this effect was significantly higher when PRGF was used. Tendon cells showed an increase of 212% in migratory ability when HA was combined with PPGF and of 335% in the case of HA + PRGF treatment compared with HA alone. PRGF-Endoret stimulates migration of tendon cells and synovial fibroblasts and improves the biological properties of HA.

  3. The Effect of Tear Supplementation with 0.15% Preservative-Free Zinc-Hyaluronate on Ocular Surface Sensations in Patients with Dry Eye.

    PubMed

    Perényi, Kristóf; Dienes, Lóránt; Kornafeld, Anna; Kovács, Balázs; Kiss, Huba J; Szepessy, Zsuzsanna; Nagy, Zoltán Z; Barsi, Árpád; Acosta, M Carmen; Gallar, Juana; Kovács, Illés

    To evaluate the effect of tear supplementation with preservative free 0.15% zinc-hyaluronate on ocular surface sensations and corneal sensitivity in dry eye patients. Ocular surface sensations were assessed using the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire and by recording ocular sensations during forced blinking in parallel with noninvasive tear film breakup time measurement in 20 eyes of 20 dry eye patients. Corneal sensitivity thresholds to selective stimulation of corneal mechano-, thermal- and chemical receptors were measured using the Belmonte gas esthesiometer. All baseline measurements were repeated after 1 month of treatment with 0.15% zinc-hyaluronate. After 1 month, a significant decrease in mean OSDI score (from 35.66 ± 12.36 to 15.03 ± 11.22; P < 0.001) and a significant improvement in tear film breakup time (from 3.83 ± 0.80 to 8.67 ± 4.50 s; P < 0.001) was observed compared to baseline. Sensory responses during the interblink period also significantly decreased after 1 month (P < 0.004). Corneal sensitivity thresholds to mechanical stimulation (90.61 ± 20.35 vs. 103.92 ± 17.97 mL/min; P < 0.025) and chemical stimulation (33.21 ± 0.51 vs. 33.58% ± 0.44% CO 2 ; P < 0.025) significantly increased after 1 month, however sensitivity thresholds to thermal stimulation remained unchanged compared to baseline (P > 0.05). Prolonged use of 0.15% zinc-hyaluronate results in an improvement of tear film stability and a decrease of dry eye complaints. The decrease in corneal mechano-and polymodal receptor excitability suggests that zinc-hyaluronate helps to recover normal corneal sensitivity, and thus might have a beneficial additional effect on reducing ocular surface complaints in dry eye patients.

  4. Molecular Dynamic Analysis of Hyaluronic Acid and Phospholipid Interaction in Tribological Surgical Adjuvant Design for Osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Siódmiak, Jacek; Bełdowski, Piotr; Augé, Wayne K; Ledziński, Damian; Śmigiel, Sandra; Gadomski, Adam

    2017-09-04

    Tribological surgical adjuvants constitute a therapeutic discipline made possible by surgical advances in the treatment of damaged articular cartilage beyond palliative care. The purpose of this study is to analyze interactions between hyaluronic acid and phospholipid molecules, and the formation of geometric forms, that play a role in the facilitated lubrication of synovial joint organ systems. The analysis includes an evaluation of the pathologic state to detail conditions that may be encountered by adjuvants during surgical convalescence. The synovial fluid changes in pH, hyaluronic acid polydispersity, and phospholipid concentration associated with osteoarthritis are presented as features that influence the lubricating properties of adjuvant candidates. Molecular dynamic simulation studies are presented, and the Rouse model is deployed, to rationalize low molecular weight hyaluronic acid behavior in an osteoarthritic environment of increased pH and phospholipid concentration. The results indicate that the hyaluronic acid radius of gyration time evolution is both pH- and phospholipid concentration-dependent. Specifically, dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine induces hydrophobic interactions in the system, causing low molecular weight hyaluronic acid to shrink and at high concentration be absorbed into phospholipid vesicles. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid appears to be insufficient for use as a tribological surgical adjuvant because an increased pH and phospholipid concentration induces decreased crosslinking that prevents the formation of supramolecular lubricating forms. Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine remains an adjuvant candidate for certain clinical situations. The need to reconcile osteoarthritic phenotypes is a prerequisite that should serve as a framework for future adjuvant design and subsequent tribological testing.

  5. Synthesis and Characterization of Hyaluronic Acid Modified Colloidal Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Wenbiao; Wang, Yu; Li, Zhen; Wang, Wanxia; Sun, Honghao; Liu, Mingxing

    2017-12-01

    The colloidal mesoporous silica nanoparticles functionalized with hyaluronic acid (CMS-HA) were successfully synthesized by grafting hyaluronic acid onto the external surface of the amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (CMS-NH2). Moreover, the paticle properties of CMS-HA were characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nanomaterials were negatively charged and had a relatively uniform spherical morphology with about 100 nm in diameter, which could make it more compatible with blood. So the results suggested that the CMS-HA might be a critical nanomaterial for applying in target drug delivery system.

  6. Comparison of the effects of sodium hyaluronate-chondroitin sulphate and corticosteroid in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis: a prospective randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Tosun, Haci Bayram; Gumustas, Seyitali; Agir, Ismail; Uludag, Abuzer; Serbest, Sancar; Pepele, Demet; Ertem, Kadir

    2015-09-01

    Hyaluronic acid and glycosaminoglycans have shown positive effects in improving lateral epicondylitis and other tendinosis conditions. Therefore, we designed a prospective, randomized study to compare the effects of a combined sodium hyaluronate and chondroitin sulfate (HA + CS) injection versus a triamcinolone injection in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis. In total, 57 consecutive patients with clinically diagnosed lateral epicondylitis were divided randomly into two groups. In the HA + CS group, 25 patients received a single injection of a solution containing an HA + CS combination and prilocaine HCl, while the 32 patients in the triamcinolone group received a single injection of a solution of triamcinolone and prilocaine HCl. We evaluated the pain and function outcome measures using the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) questionnaire at the beginning of the study, and 3 and 6 months after the injection. Additionally, the Minimum Clinically Important Difference values and percentage changes in the PRTEE subscale scores between the assessments were calculated. No serious adverse events were reported throughout the study. The mean pain and function scores for the HA + CS and triamcinolone groups had significantly improved at 3 months, but the mean function scores in the HA + CS group were statistically significantly better when compared to the triamcinolone group. At 6 months, both groups had significantly improved mean pain and function scores, compared to the baseline scores; however, the mean pain and function scores in the 6-month HA + CS treatment group were better than in the 6-month triamcinolone group. The relative change for the mean total score in the HA + CS group was much better when compared with the triamcinolone group, and the HA + CS treatment group showed clinically significant improvement when compared with triamcinolone group at 3 and 6 months. This study supports the idea that for a single injection treatment of patients with

  7. Liver graft preservation using perfluorocarbon improves the outcomes of simulated donation after cardiac death liver transplantation in rats.

    PubMed

    Okumura, Shinya; Uemura, Tadahiro; Zhao, Xiangdong; Masano, Yuki; Tsuruyama, Tatsuaki; Fujimoto, Yasuhiro; Iida, Taku; Yagi, Shintaro; Bezinover, Dmitri; Spiess, Bruce; Kaido, Toshimi; Uemoto, Shinji

    2017-09-01

    The outcomes of liver transplantation (LT) from donation after cardiac death (DCD) donors remain poor due to severe warm ischemia injury. Perfluorocarbon (PFC) is a novel compound with high oxygen carrying capacity. In the present study, a rat model simulating DCD LT was used, and the impact of improved graft oxygenation provided by PFC addition on liver ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) and survival after DCD LT was investigated. Orthotopic liver transplants were performed in male Lewis rats, using DCD liver grafts preserved with cold University of Wisconsin (UW) solution in the control group and preserved with cold oxygenated UW solution with addition of 20% PFC in the PFC group. For experiment I, in a 30-minute donor warm ischemia model, postoperative graft injury was analyzed at 3 and 6 hours after transplantation. For experiment II, in a 50-minute donor warm ischemia model, the postoperative survival was assessed. For experiment I, the levels of serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, hyaluronic acid, malondialdehyde, and several inflammatory cytokines were significantly lower in the PFC group. The hepatic expression levels of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6 were significantly lower, and the expression level of heme oxygenase 1 was significantly higher in the PFC group. Histological analysis showed significantly less necrosis and apoptosis in the PFC group. Sinusoidal endothelial cells and microvilli of the bile canaliculi were well preserved in the PFC group. For experiment II, the postoperative survival rate was significantly improved in the PFC group. In conclusion, graft preservation with PFC attenuated liver IRI and improved postoperative survival. This graft preservation protocol might be a new therapeutic option to improve the outcomes of DCD LT. Liver Transplantation 23 1171-1185 2017 AASLD. © 2017 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

  8. Endoscopic and clinical benefits of hyaluronic acid in children with chronic adenoiditis and middle ear disease.

    PubMed

    Torretta, S; Marchisio, P; Rinaldi, V; Carioli, D; Nazzari, E; Pignataro, L

    2017-03-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is involved in modulating inflammatory airway processes and mucociliary clearance. Some studies have tested the effectiveness of the topical administration of HA in patients with upper airway diseases with positive preliminary results. A prospective, single-blind, 1:1 randomised controlled study was performed to assess the efficacy and safety of the daily topical administration of 9 mg of sodium hyaluronate in 3 mL of a 0.9 % sodium saline solution on the basis of endoscopic and clinical parameters in children with chronic adenoiditis associated with recurrent acute otitis media and otitis media with effusion; age- and gender-matched children receiving normal 0.9 % sodium chloride saline solution were used as controls. Analysis was based on 103 (mean age 63.3 ± 18.2 months; 52 males, 50.5 %) children: 54 in the study group and 49 in the control group. A statistically significant reduction in the mean number of all acute otitis media episodes (AOME) (mean reduction 0.8 ± 0.4 per month; p value 0.05) and AOME without tympanic membrane perforation (mean reduction 0.6 ± 0.3 per month; p value 0.04) after recruitment was documented only in the study group. HA significantly improved all the endoscopic outcomes (p values ranging between 0.05 and <0.01) but one. Nasal washing with saline solution was effective on only three of them (p values ranging between 0.03 and <0.01). No untoward effects were documented. Our results confirm the safety and document the positive effect of topically administered HA solution on children with chronic adenoiditis associated with middle ear disease.

  9. A membrane-associated adenylate cyclase modulates lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase activities required for bull sperm capacitation induced by hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Fernández, Silvina; Córdoba, Mariana

    2017-04-01

    Hyaluronic acid, as well as heparin, is a glycosaminoglycan present in the female genital tract of cattle. The aim of this study was to evaluate oxidative metabolism and intracellular signals mediated by a membrane-associated adenylate cyclase (mAC), in sperm capacitation with hyaluronic acid and heparin, in cryopreserved bull sperm. The mAC inhibitor, 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine, was used in the present study. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) activities and lactate concentration were determined spectrophotometrically in the incubation medium. Capacitation and acrosome reaction were evaluated by chlortetracycline technique, while plasma membrane and acrosome integrity were determined by trypan blue stain/differential interference contrast microscopy. Heparin capacitated samples had a significant decrease in LDH and CK activities, while in hyaluronic acid capacitated samples LDH and CK activities both increased compared to control samples, in heparin and hyaluronic acid capacitation conditions, respectively. A significant increase in lactate concentration in the incubation medium occurred in hyaluronic acid-treated sperm samples compared to heparin treatment, indicating this energetic metabolite is produced during capacitation. The LDH and CK enzyme activities and lactate concentrations in the incubation medium were decreased with 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine treatment in hyaluronic acid samples. The mAC inhibitor significantly inhibited heparin-induced capacitation of sperm cells, but did not completely inhibit hyaluronic acid capacitation. Therefore, hyaluronic acid and heparin are physiological glycosaminoglycans capable of inducing in vitro capacitation in cryopreserved bull sperm, stimulating different enzymatic pathways and intracellular signals modulated by a mAC. Hyaluronic acid induces sperm capacitation involving LDH and CK activities, thereby reducing oxidative metabolism, and this process is mediated by mAC. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All

  10. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a Canadian evidence-based perspective

    PubMed Central

    Bhandari, Mohit; Bannuru, Raveendhara R.; Babins, Eric M.; Martel-Pelletier, Johanne; Khan, Moin; Raynauld, Jean-Pierre; Frankovich, Renata; Mcleod, Deanna; Devji, Tahira; Phillips, Mark; Schemitsch, Emil H.; Pelletier, Jean-Pierre

    2017-01-01

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition characterized by a loss of joint cartilage and is a major cause of disability in Canada, with an estimated CN$195 billion annual cost. Knee OA leads to persistent pain and loss of function, and treatment goals primarily focus on symptom relief and retention of function. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IAHA) has therapeutic benefits, and numerous recently published meta-analyses (MAs) and commentaries have highlighted new evidence on the role of IAHA therapy for knee OA. A diverse, multidisciplinary group of specialists met independently in closed sessions to review findings from eight MAs with literature search end dates no earlier than 2012 to address controversies surrounding IAHA therapy for mild-to-moderate knee OA within the Canadian treatment context. Outcomes from a total of eight MAs were reviewed, and consistent and statistically significant improvements in pain, function and stiffness up to 26 weeks were found with IAHA therapy compared with IA placebo or controls, regardless of MA size or trial quality. These findings are in line with those of a Cochrane review, another recent systematic review and patient satisfaction survey. Overall, three MAs reported outcomes based on molecular weight (MW), with the two reporting effect sizes showing significantly improved pain outcomes for higher compared with lower MW HAs. Recent evidence suggests that HA therapy is well tolerated with no increased risk of serious adverse events compared with placebo and the full therapeutic effect of IAHA therapy appears to have considerable clinical importance, consisting of the combined IA placebo and HA therapeutic effects. IAHA therapy is a well-tolerated and effective option for patients with mild-to-moderate knee OA failing first-line pharmacological therapy. PMID:28932293

  11. Hylan G-F 20 Versus Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acids for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Meta-Analysis.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Hongmou; Liu, Hongliang; Liang, Xiaojun; Li, Yi; Wang, Junhu; Liu, Cheng

    2016-10-01

    Hyaluronic acid injection has been reported to decrease pain compared with baseline levels in knee joint osteoarthritis. Hylan G-F 20 is distinguished from the other products by its chemical structure and relatively higher molecular weight. Many trials have compared hylan G-F 20 and low molecular weight hyaluronic acids (LMWHAs); however, their relative efficacy and safety are still debated. The aim was to compare the effectiveness and safety of intra-articular injection of hylan G-F 20 and LMWHA in the treatment of knee joint osteoarthritis. A comprehensive search of the literature up to February 2016 was performed; multiple databases were searched with 'Synvisc' or 'hylan' or 'hyaluronan' as free word terms. The pain-related outcomes and treatment-related adverse events from intent-to-treat analyzed studies were pooled for meta-analysis; other functional outcomes were included in the qualitative analysis. Twenty trials with a total of 3034 patients and 3153 knees were included, with a pooled dropout rate of 7.2 %. The pooled pain-related outcomes at 2 to 3 months reached a statistically significant difference in favor of hylan G-F 20 (I 2  = 88 %; random effects; P = 0.02), and the significance still existed with exclusion (in order to eliminate heterogeneity) of the three studies that most favored hylan G-F 20 (I 2  = 51 %; fixed effect; P = 0.03). No significant difference was reached for other group and subgroup analyses. No significant difference was reached in comparing the patients with treatment-related adverse events (seven trials; 2025 patients; P = 0.13) or the treatment-related adverse events (six trials; 1633 patients; P = 0.14). According to the current results, limited evidence showed a superior effect favoring hylan G-F 20 over LMWHA in the period from 2 to 3 months post-injection for pain-related outcomes. There was no evidence of increased risk of treatment-related adverse events for hylan G-F 20 injections.

  12. CD44 and TLR4 mediate hyaluronic acid regulation of Lgr5+ stem cell proliferation, crypt fission, and intestinal growth in postnatal and adult mice.

    PubMed

    Riehl, Terrence E; Santhanam, Srikanth; Foster, Lynne; Ciorba, Matthew; Stenson, William F

    2015-12-01

    Hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan in the extracellular matrix, binds to CD44 and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). We previously addressed the role of hyaluronic acid in small intestinal and colonic growth in mice. We addressed the role of exogenous hyaluronic acid by giving hyaluronic acid intraperitoneally and the role of endogenous hyaluronic acid by giving PEP-1, a peptide that blocks hyaluronic acid binding to its receptors. Exogenous hyaluronic acid increased epithelial proliferation but had no effect on intestinal length. PEP-1 resulted in a shortened small intestine and colon and diminished epithelial proliferation. In the current study, we sought to determine whether the effects of hyaluronic acid on growth were mediated by signaling through CD44 or TLR4 by giving exogenous hyaluronic acid or PEP-1 twice a week from 3-8 wk of age to wild-type, CD44(-/-), and TLR4(-/-) mice. These studies demonstrated that signaling through both CD44 and TLR4 were important in mediating the effects of hyaluronic acid on growth in the small intestine and colon. Extending our studies to early postnatal life, we assessed the effects of exogenous hyaluronic acid and PEP-1 on Lgr5(+) stem cell proliferation and crypt fission. Administration of PEP-1 to Lgr5(+) reporter mice from postnatal day 7 to day 14 decreased Lgr5(+) cell proliferation and decreased crypt fission. These studies indicate that endogenous hyaluronic acid increases Lgr5(+) stem cell proliferation, crypt fission, and intestinal lengthening and that these effects are dependent on signaling through CD44 and TLR4. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

  13. Teleophthalmology: improving patient outcomes?

    PubMed

    Sreelatha, Omana Kesary; Ramesh, Sathyamangalam VenkataSubbu

    2016-01-01

    Teleophthalmology is gaining importance as an effective eye care delivery modality worldwide. In many developing countries, teleophthalmology is being utilized to provide quality eye care to the underserved urban population and the unserved remote rural population. Over the years, technological innovations have led to improvement in evidence and teleophthalmology has evolved from a research tool to a clinical tool. The majority of the current teleophthalmology services concentrate on patient screening and appropriate referral to experts. Specialty care using teleophthalmology services for the pediatric group includes screening as well as providing timely care for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Among geriatric eye diseases, specialty teleophthalmology care is focused toward screening and referral for diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), and other sight-threatening conditions. Comprehensive vision screening and refractive error services are generally covered as part of most of the teleophthalmology methods. Over the past decades, outcome assessment of health care system includes patients' assessments on their health, care, and services they receive. Outcomes, by and large, remain the ultimate validators of the effectiveness and quality of medical care. Teleophthalmology produces the same desired clinical outcome as the traditional system. Remote portals allow specialists to provide care over a larger region, thereby improving health outcomes and increasing accessibility of specialty care to a larger population. A high satisfaction level and acceptance is reported in the majority of the studies because of increased accessibility and reduced traveling cost and time. Considering the improved quality of patient care and patient satisfaction reported for these telemedicine services, this review explores how teleophthalmology helps to improve patient outcomes.

  14. Teleophthalmology: improving patient outcomes?

    PubMed Central

    Sreelatha, Omana Kesary; Ramesh, Sathyamangalam VenkataSubbu

    2016-01-01

    Teleophthalmology is gaining importance as an effective eye care delivery modality worldwide. In many developing countries, teleophthalmology is being utilized to provide quality eye care to the underserved urban population and the unserved remote rural population. Over the years, technological innovations have led to improvement in evidence and teleophthalmology has evolved from a research tool to a clinical tool. The majority of the current teleophthalmology services concentrate on patient screening and appropriate referral to experts. Specialty care using teleophthalmology services for the pediatric group includes screening as well as providing timely care for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Among geriatric eye diseases, specialty teleophthalmology care is focused toward screening and referral for diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), and other sight-threatening conditions. Comprehensive vision screening and refractive error services are generally covered as part of most of the teleophthalmology methods. Over the past decades, outcome assessment of health care system includes patients’ assessments on their health, care, and services they receive. Outcomes, by and large, remain the ultimate validators of the effectiveness and quality of medical care. Teleophthalmology produces the same desired clinical outcome as the traditional system. Remote portals allow specialists to provide care over a larger region, thereby improving health outcomes and increasing accessibility of specialty care to a larger population. A high satisfaction level and acceptance is reported in the majority of the studies because of increased accessibility and reduced traveling cost and time. Considering the improved quality of patient care and patient satisfaction reported for these telemedicine services, this review explores how teleophthalmology helps to improve patient outcomes. PMID:26929592

  15. Chemical Sintering Generates Uniform Porous Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels

    PubMed Central

    Cam, Cynthia; Segura, Tatiana

    2014-01-01

    Implantation of scaffolds for tissue repair has been met with limited success primarily due to the inability to achieve vascularization within the construct. Many strategies have shifted to incorporate pores into these scaffolds to encourage rapid cellular infiltration and subsequent vascular ingrowth. We utilized an efficient chemical sintering technique to create a uniform network of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres for porous hyaluronic acid hydrogel formation. The porous hydrogels generated from chemical sintering possessed comparable pore uniformity and interconnectivity as the commonly used non- and heat sintering techniques. Moreover, similar cell response to the porous hydrogels generated from each sintering approach was observed in cell viability, spreading, proliferation in vitro, as well as, cellular invasion in vivo. We propose chemical sintering of PMMA microspheres using a dilute acetone solution as an alternative method to generating porous hyaluronic acid hydrogels since it requires equal or ten-fold less processing time as the currently used non-sintering or heat sintering technique, respectively. PMID:24120847

  16. 1- and 2-particle Microrheology of Hyaluronic Acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sagan, Austin; Kearns, Sarah; Ross, David; Das, Moumita; Thurston, George; Franklin, Scott

    2015-03-01

    Hyaluronic acid (also called HA or Hyaluronan) is a high molecular weight polysaccaride ubiquitous in the extracellular matrix of soft tissue such as cartilage, skin, the eye's vitreous gel and synovial fluid. It has been shown to play an important role in mechanotransduction, cell migration and proliferation, and in tissue morphodynamics. We present a confocal microrheology study of hyaluronic acid of varying concentrations. The mean squared displacement (MSD) of sub-micron colloidal tracer particles is tracked in two dimensions and shows a transition from diffusive motion at low concentrations to small-time trapping by the protein network as the concentration increases. Correlations between particle motion can be used to determine an effective mean-squared displacement which deviates from the single-particle MSD as the fluid becomes less homogeneous. The real and effective mean-squared displacements are used to probe the local and space-averaged frequency dependent rheological properties of the fluid as the concentration changes.

  17. A potential relationship between skin hydration and stamp-type microneedle intradermal hyaluronic acid injection in middle-aged male face.

    PubMed

    Seok, Joon; Hong, Ji Yeon; Choi, Sun Young; Park, Kui Young; Kim, Beom Joon

    2016-12-01

    There is an increasing interest in skin rejuvenation using hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers beyond the improvement of deep wrinkles and volume deficiencies, which have been primary research foci in the past. We conducted a pilot study using a sample of six middle-aged male subjects. Using an automatic intradermal injector with 0.020 mL of material contained in each injection point with a total of 100 points, 2 mL of non-cross-HA filler was injected into the entire face at every treatment session. We administered injections of HA for a total of three sessions per subject at 2-week intervals and evaluated the results using a corneometer, TEWL, cutometer, measures of patient satisfaction, and the global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS). Corneometer values increased steadily at each measurement, while the average value of TEWL increased in comparison with baseline after each application of the procedure. However, values returned to readings similar to those at 4 weeks after complete termination of the procedures. Cutometer values differed between the baseline and after procedures. All patients were assessed as "very much improved" or "much improved" according to GAIS, and all were pleased with the outcomes of treatment in terms of the enhancement of moisture, elasticity, and brightness. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  18. Crosslinking method of hyaluronic-based hydrogel for biomedical applications

    PubMed Central

    Khunmanee, Sureerat; Jeong, Younghyen; Park, Hansoo

    2017-01-01

    In the field of tissue engineering, there is a need for advancement beyond conventional scaffolds and preformed hydrogels. Injectable hydrogels have gained wider admiration among researchers as they can be used in minimally invasive surgical procedures. Injectable gels completely fill the defect area and have good permeability and hence are promising biomaterials. The technique can be effectively applied to deliver a wide range of bioactive agents, such as drugs, proteins, growth factors, and even living cells. Hyaluronic acid is a promising candidate for the tissue engineering field because of its unique physicochemical and biological properties. Thus, this review provides an overview of various methods of chemical and physical crosslinking using different linkers that have been investigated to develop the mechanical properties, biodegradation, and biocompatibility of hyaluronic acid as an injectable hydrogel in cell scaffolds, drug delivery systems, and wound healing applications. PMID:28912946

  19. Global Aesthetics Consensus: Avoidance and Management of Complications from Hyaluronic Acid Fillers—Evidence- and Opinion-Based Review and Consensus Recommendations

    PubMed Central

    Liew, Steven; Sundaram, Hema; De Boulle, Koenraad L.; Goodman, Greg J.; Monheit, Gary; Wu, Yan; Trindade de Almeida, Ada R.; Swift, Arthur; Vieira Braz, André

    2016-01-01

    Background: Although the safety profile of hyaluronic acid fillers is favorable, adverse reactions can occur. Clinicians and patients can benefit from ongoing guidance on adverse reactions to hyaluronic acid fillers and their management. Methods: A multinational, multidisciplinary group of experts in cosmetic medicine convened the Global Aesthetics Consensus Group to review the properties and clinical uses of Hylacross and Vycross hyaluronic acid products and develop updated consensus recommendations for early and late complications associated with hyaluronic acid fillers. Results: The consensus panel provided specific recommendations focusing on early and late complications of hyaluronic acid fillers and their management. The impact of patient-, product-, and technique-related factors on such reactions was described. Most of these were noted to be mild and transient. Serious adverse events are rare. Early adverse reactions to hyaluronic acid fillers include vascular infarction and compromise; inflammatory reactions; injection-related events; and inappropriate placement of filler material. Among late reactions are nodules, granulomas, and skin discoloration. Most adverse events can be avoided with proper planning and technique. Detailed understanding of facial anatomy, proper patient and product selection, and appropriate technique can further reduce the risks. Should adverse reactions occur, the clinician must be prepared and have tools available for effective treatment. Conclusions: Adverse reactions with hyaluronic acid fillers are uncommon. Clinicians should take steps to further reduce the risk and be prepared to treat any complications that arise. PMID:27219265

  20. Comparison of histological effects of polydeoxyribonucleic acid and hyaluronic acid in experimentally induced osteoarthritis of the knee joints of rats

    PubMed Central

    Karahan, Nazım; Arslan, İlyas; Orak, Müfit; Midi, Ahmet; Yücel, İstemi

    2017-01-01

    Aim: The histological effects of intra-articular polydeoxyribonucleic acid and hyaluronic acid in experimentally induced osteoarthritis of the knee joints of rats were investigated. Methods: Thirty rats were divided into three groups, i.e. polydeoxyribonucleic acid group, hyaluronic acid group and saline group. Osteoarthritis of the knee joints of the rats were induced by acl- transection. The polydeoxyribonucleic group was injected with 100 µg (0.05 cc) polydeoxyribonucleic acid. The hyaluronic acid group was injected with 100 µg (0.05 cc) hyaluronic acid, and the saline group was injected with 50 µl (0.05 cc) of 0.9% sodium chloride solution. All of the rats were sacrificed on day 29 and the right knee joints were prepared, and evaluated histologically by Mankin classification. Findings: The differences in total Mankin scores between the three groups were statistically significant (P < 0.01). The differences in total Mankin scores between the polydeoxyribonucleic acid group and the hyaluronic acid group were statistically significant (P < 0.01). The differences in total Mankin scores between hyaluronic acid group and saline group were statistically significant (P < 0.01). Tidemark continuity in all the specimens of the polydeoxyribonucleic acid group was noteworthy. Conclusion: The present study shows that more chondroprotective effect and less degeneration was observed with intra-articularly delivered polydeoxyribonucleic acid compared to hyaluronic acid and saline solution in the experimentally induced osteoarthritis of the knee joints of rats.

  1. Oral Glucosamine Hydrochloride Combined With Hyaluronate Sodium Intra-Articular Injection for Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Yang, Wenbin; Liu, Wei; Miao, Cheng; Sun, Haibin; Li, Longjiang; Li, Chunjie

    2018-06-02

    Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders occur in many people and osteoarthritis (OA) is a severe form of this disease. Glucosamine has been used to treat OA of the large joints for many years and has been proved effective. A double-blinded randomized controlled trial was designed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of oral glucosamine hydrochloride pills combined with hyaluronate sodium intra-articular injection in TMJ OA. One hundred forty-four participants with TMJ OA were randomized to 4 hyaluronate sodium injections and oral glucosamine hydrochloride (1.44 g/day) for 3 months (group A) or 4 hyaluronate sodium injections and oral placebo for 3 months (group B). All participants were followed for 1 year. Eighteen participants were lost to follow-up. The intention-to-treat analysis showed that group A had similar maximal interincisal mouth opening and pain intensity during TMJ function at months 1 and 6 (P > .05). However, during long-term follow-up, group A had significantly greater maximal interincisal mouth opening compared with group B at month 12 (41.5 vs 37.9 mm; P < .001). For pain intensity, group A showed obviously lower visual analog scale scores than group B at month 6 (20.6 vs 29.2 mm; P = .007) and month 12 (17.4 vs 28.6 mm; P = .001). Twenty-four participants had gastrointestinal tract side effects, fatigue, and rash. Of these, 23 had slight side effects that were not correlated with glucosamine. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups (P > .05). The results of this study suggest that, compared with hyaluronate sodium injection alone, glucosamine hydrochloride pills added to hyaluronate sodium injection had no meaningful effect on TMJ OA in the short-term but did relieve the pain caused by TMJ OA and improved TMJ functions in the long-term. Copyright © 2018 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Glucocorticoid combined with hyaluronic acid enhance glucocorticoid receptor activity through inhibiting p-38MAPK signal pathway activation in treating acute lung injury in rats.

    PubMed

    Lv, Q

    2016-09-01

    In order to seek an effective strategy for clinical treatment of acute lung injury (ALI), we are committed to explore the effect of combination therapy of glucocorticoid and hyaluronic acid on acute lung injury caused by an endotoxin (LPS) and its mechanism. Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided randomly into 5 groups: normal group (n=8); LPS group (n=8); dexamethasone +LPS group (DXMS group, n=8); hyaluronic acid+ LPS group (HA group, n=8); dexamethasone +hyaluronic acid +LPS group (DXMS+HA group, n=8). Firstly, SD rat model with acute lung injury induced by LPS was established, and injected corresponding drugs according to the plan. Then, the expression of TNF-a, IL-8, IL-10, ICAM-1 and total protein were measured by ELISA, and the HE staining was used for detected the pathological change in lung tissue. Subsequently, the water content, dry and wet ratio and permeability in lung tissues of SD rats was assayed. Finally, the expression level of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) was detected by RT-PCR, and activation of p-p38MAPK was determined by Western blotting. The results showed that concentration of IL-8, IL-10 and ICAM-1 was significantly increased in BALF after LPS injection, and the results from HE staining showed it had widespread inflammation. However, lung structures in SD rats with inhalation lung injury were improved significantly after the injection of dexamethasone and hyaluronic acid, and the Pa02/Fi02, blood pressure and Cdyn were also increased. Moreover, lung water content, the ratio of wet and dry lung, and lung permeability index (LPI) was decreased after having treated the SD rats with a combination of dexamethasone and hyaluronic acid, and the apoptosis index was also decreased in the rats with LPS-induced ALI. Our data also suggested that TNF-α, IL-8, IL-10, intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and total protein was significantly declined in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of rats with LPS-induced acute lung injury

  3. Photo-crosslinked hyaluronic acid coated upconverting nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mrazek, Jiri; Kettou, Sofiane; Matuska, Vit; Svozil, Vit; Huerta-Angeles, Gloria; Pospisilova, Martina; Nesporova, Kristina; Velebny, Vladimir

    2017-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated inorganic nanoparticles display enhanced interaction with the CD44 receptors which are overexpressed in many types of cancer cells. Here, we describe a modification of core-shell β-NaY0.80Yb0.18Er0.02F4@NaYF4 nanoparticles (UCNP) by HA derivative bearing photo-reactive groups. UCNP capped with oleic acid were firstly transferred to aqueous phase by an improved protocol using hydrochloric acid or lactic acid treatment. Subsequently, HA bearing furanacryloyl moieties (HA-FU) was adsorbed on the nanoparticle surface and crosslinked by UV irradiation. The crosslinking resulted in stable HA coating, and no polymer desorption was observed. As-prepared UCNP@HA-FU show a hydrodynamic diameter of about 180 nm and are colloidally stable in water and cell culture media. The cellular uptake by normal human fibroblasts and MDA MB-231 cancer cell line was investigated by upconversion luminescence imaging.

  4. Protective therapeutic effects of peptide nanofiber and hyaluronic acid hybrid membrane in in vivo osteoarthritis model.

    PubMed

    Arslan, Elif; Sardan Ekiz, Melis; Eren Cimenci, Cagla; Can, Nuray; Gemci, M Hanifi; Ozkan, Huseyin; Guler, Mustafa O; Tekinay, Ayse B

    2018-06-01

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition where tissue function is lost through a combination of secondary inflammation and deterioration in articular cartilage. One of the most common causes of OA is age-related tissue impairment because of wear and tear due to mechanical erosion. Hyaluronic acid-based viscoelastic supplements have been widely used for the treatment of knee injuries. However, the current formulations of hyaluronic acid are unable to provide efficient healing and recovery. Here, a nanofiber-hyaluronic acid membrane system that was prepared by using a quarter of the concentration of commercially available hyaluronic acid supplement, Hyalgan®, was used for the treatment of an osteoarthritis model, and Synvisc®, which is another commercially available hyaluronic acid containing viscoelastic supplement, was used as a control. The results show that this system provides efficient protection of arthritic cartilage tissue through the preservation of cartilage morphology with reduced osteophyte formation, protection of the subchondral region from deterioration, and maintenance of cartilage specific matrix proteins in vivo. In addition, the hybrid nanofiber membrane enabled chondrocyte encapsulation and provided a suitable culturing environment for stem cell growth in vitro. Overall, our results suggest that this hybrid nanofibrous scaffold provides a potential platform the treatment of OA. Osteoarthritis is a debilitating joint disease affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs especially in knees due to aging, sport injuries or obesity. Although hyaluronic acid-based viscoelastic supplements are widely used, there is still no effective treatment method for osteoarthritis, which necessitates surgical operation as an only choice for severe cases. Therefore, there is an urgent need for efficient therapeutics. In this study, a nanofiber-HA membrane system was developed for the efficient protection of arthritic cartilage tissue from degeneration. This hybrid

  5. Diclofenac Sodium 3% in Hyaluronic Acid 2.5% Gel Significantly Diminishes the Actinic Keratosis Area and Severity Index.

    PubMed

    Schmitz, Lutz; Gupta, Girish; Segert, Marc Hanno; Kost, Ricarda; Sternberg, Julia; Gambichler, Thilo; Stockfleth, Eggert; Dirschka, Thomas

    2018-05-23

    Actinic keratosis area and severity index (AKASI) is a new assessment tool to quantify the severity of actinic damage on the head. Thus far, it has not been evaluated in monitoring the efficacy of field-directed topical treatments in actinic keratosis (AK) in routine clinical practice. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine treatment outcomes by using AKASI 3 months after the initiation of topical application of diclofenac sodium 3% in hyaluronic acid 2.5% gel (DFS) in patients with AKs on the head. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with AKs who had AKASI scores prior to and after treatment with DFS. Of the 24 patients included, 20 (83.3%) showed an improvement in AKASI, 2 (8.3%) a stable AKASI, and 2 (8.3%) a worsening of AKASI after a median (interquartile range) follow-up period of 91.5 days (89.8-104.3). The median AKASI reduction was 31.4% (16.7-59.1). The Wilcoxon test showed significant differences (p = 0.0008) between baseline and posttreatment AKASI values. AKASI is an easy-to-use quantitative tool for assessing the treatment outcome of field-directed therapies. Field-directed therapies of AK should no longer be monitored by assessments based on lesion counts alone. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  6. Hyaluronic acid improves frozen-thawed sperm quality and fertility potential in rooster.

    PubMed

    Lotfi, Saied; Mehri, Morteza; Sharafi, Mohsen; Masoudi, Reza

    2017-09-01

    Beneficial effects of Hyaluronic acid (HA) has not been yet assessed for cryopreservation of rooster sperm. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of HA (0, 1, 2, 4 and 8mM) in Beltsville extender on the cryopreservation of rooster sperm. Semen samples were collected from six Ross broiler breeders (24-week) using abdominal massage, then divided into five equal aliquots and cryopreserved in Beltsville extender that contained different concentrations of HA. Motion characteristics, morphology, membrane functionality, viability, acrosome integrity, lipid peroxidation and fertility potential of sperm were assessed after thawing. HA at concentration of 2mM (HA2) resulted in the highest (P<0.05) total motility (55.3±1.1%) and progressive motility (25.2±0.8%) compared to the other groups. HA8 produced the lowest significant (P<0.05) percentage of total (38.6±1.1%) and progressive (14.7±0.8%) motility. High significant percentage of membrane functionality were observed in HA1 and HA2 (43.2±1.0 and 46.1±1.0%, respectively) compared to HA4 (40.1±1.0%) and HA8 (32.5±1.0%). Moreover, HA1 and HA2 produced the higher percentage of acrosome integrity (54.8±1.2 and 57.5±1.2, respectively) compared to other groups. HA1 and HA2 reduced (P<0.05) malondialdehyde formation (3.66±0.08 and 3.75±0.08 nmol/ml) compared to other groups. Fertility rate and hatching rate obtained from artificial insemination were significantly higher in HA1 (63.7 and 54.7%) and HA2 (67.5 and 57.7%) compared to control group (40 and 37%). Our results showed that supplementation of Beltsville extender with 1 and 2mM HA significantly improved the quality of rooster sperm after freeze thawing. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Novel hyaluronic acid dermal filler: dermal gel extra physical properties and clinical outcomes.

    PubMed

    Monheit, Gary D; Baumann, Leslie S; Gold, Michael H; Goldberg, David J; Goldman, Mitchel P; Narins, Rhoda S; Bachtell, Nathan; Garcia, Emily; Kablik, Jeffrey; Gershkovich, Julia; Burkholder, David

    2010-11-01

    Dermal gel extra (DGE) is a new, tightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal filler containing lidocaine engineered to resist gel deformation and degradation. To develop a firmer gel product (DGE) and compare the efficacy and safety of DGE with nonanimal stabilized HA (NASHA) for correction of nasolabial folds (NLFs). DGE physical properties were characterized, and 140 subjects with moderate to deep NLFs were treated with DGE and NASHA in a randomized, multicenter, split-face design study. Efficacy, pain, and satisfaction were measured using appropriate standard instruments. Adverse events were monitored throughout the study. DGE has a higher modulus and a higher gel:fluid ratio than other HA fillers. Similar optimal correction was observed with DGE and NASHA through 36 weeks (9 months). Study subjects required less volume (p<.001) and fewer touch-ups (p=.005) and reported less injection pain (p<.001) with DGE treatment. Most adverse events were mild to moderate skin reactions. DGE is a firm HA gel that required significantly less volume and fewer touch-ups to provide equivalent efficacy to NASHA for NLF correction; both dermal gels were well tolerated. DGE will provide a comfortable and cost-effective dermal filler option for clinicians and patients. © 2010 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.

  8. Effects of hyaluronic acid on bleeding following third molar extraction.

    PubMed

    Gocmen, Gokhan; Aktop, Sertac; Tüzüner, Burcin; Goker, Bahar; Yarat, Aysen

    2017-01-01

    To explore the effects of hyaluronic acid (HA) on bleeding and associated outcomes after third molar extraction. Forty patients who had undergone molar extraction were randomly divided into two groups; 0.8% (w/v) HA was applied to the HA group (n=20) whereas a control group (n=20) was not treated. Salivary and gingival tissue factor (TF) levels, bleeding time, maximum interincisal opening (MIO), pain scored on a visual analog scale (VAS), and the swelling extent were compared between the two groups. HA did not significantly affect gingival TF levels. Salivary TF levels increased significantly 1 week after HA application but not in the control group. Neither the VAS pain level nor MIO differed significantly between the two groups. The swelling extent on day 3 and the bleeding time were greater in the HA group than in the control group. Local injection of HA at 0.8% prolonged the bleeding time, and increased hemorrhage and swelling in the early postoperative period after third molar extractions.

  9. Cyclic phosphatidic acid and lysophosphatidic acid induce hyaluronic acid synthesis via CREB transcription factor regulation in human skin fibroblasts.

    PubMed

    Maeda-Sano, Katsura; Gotoh, Mari; Morohoshi, Toshiro; Someya, Takao; Murofushi, Hiromu; Murakami-Murofushi, Kimiko

    2014-09-01

    Cyclic phosphatidic acid (cPA) is a naturally occurring phospholipid mediator and an analog of the growth factor-like phospholipid lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). cPA has a unique cyclic phosphate ring at the sn-2 and sn-3 positions of its glycerol backbone. We showed before that a metabolically stabilized cPA derivative, 2-carba-cPA, relieved osteoarthritis pathogenesis in vivo and induced hyaluronic acid synthesis in human osteoarthritis synoviocytes in vitro. This study focused on hyaluronic acid synthesis in human fibroblasts, which retain moisture and maintain health in the dermis. We investigated the effects of cPA and LPA on hyaluronic acid synthesis in human fibroblasts (NB1RGB cells). Using particle exclusion and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, we found that both cPA and LPA dose-dependently induced hyaluronic acid synthesis. We revealed that the expression of hyaluronan synthase 2 messenger RNA and protein is up-regulated by cPA and LPA treatment time dependently. We then characterized the signaling pathways up-regulating hyaluronic acid synthesis mediated by cPA and LPA in NB1RGB cells. Pharmacological inhibition and reporter gene assays revealed that the activation of the LPA receptor LPAR1, Gi/o protein, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K), extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (CREB) but not nuclear factor κB induced hyaluronic acid synthesis by the treatment with cPA and LPA in NB1RGB cells. These results demonstrate for the first time that cPA and LPA induce hyaluronic acid synthesis in human skin fibroblasts mainly through the activation of LPAR1-Gi/o followed by the PI3K, ERK, and CREB signaling pathway. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Hyaluronic acid enhances the effect of the PAMPS/PDMAAm double-network hydrogel on chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background A double-network (DN) gel, which was composed of poly-(2-Acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid) and poly-(N,N’-dimethyl acrylamide) (PAMPS/PDMAAm), has the potential to induce chondrogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. The present study investigated whether DN gel induced chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells in a maintenance medium without insulin, and whether supplementation of hyaluronic acid enhanced the chondrogenic differentiation effect of DN gel. Methods ATDC5 cells were cultured on the DN gel and the polystyrene (PS) dish in maintenance media without insulin for 21 days. Hyaluronic acid having a molecular weight of approximately 800 kDa was supplemented into the medium so that the concentration became 0.01, 0.1, or 1.0 mg/mL. The cultured cells were evaluated using immunocytochemistry for type-2 collagen and real time PCR for gene expression of type-2 collagen, aggrecan, and Sox9 at 7 and 21 days of culture. Results The cells cultured on the DN gel formed nodules and were stained with an anti-type-2 collagen antibody, and expression of type-2 collagen and aggrecan mRNA was significantly greater on the DN gel than on the PS dish surface (p < 0.05) in the hyaluronic acid-free maintenance medium. Hyaluronic acid supplementation of a high concentration (1.0 mg/mL) significantly enhanced expression of type-2 collagen and aggrecan mRNA in comparison with culture without hyaluronic acid at 21 days (p < 0.05). Conclusions The DN gel induced chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells without insulin. This effect was significantly affected by hyaluronic acid, depending on the level of concentration. There is a high possibility that hyaluronic acid plays an important role in the in vivo hyaline cartilage regeneration phenomenon induced by the DN gel. PMID:24997593

  11. Hyaluronic acid enhances the effect of the PAMPS/PDMAAm double-network hydrogel on chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells.

    PubMed

    Kitamura, Nobuto; Kurokawa, Takayuki; Fukui, Takaaki; Gong, Jian P; Yasuda, Kazunori

    2014-07-06

    A double-network (DN) gel, which was composed of poly-(2-Acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid) and poly-(N,N'-dimethyl acrylamide) (PAMPS/PDMAAm), has the potential to induce chondrogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. The present study investigated whether DN gel induced chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells in a maintenance medium without insulin, and whether supplementation of hyaluronic acid enhanced the chondrogenic differentiation effect of DN gel. ATDC5 cells were cultured on the DN gel and the polystyrene (PS) dish in maintenance media without insulin for 21 days. Hyaluronic acid having a molecular weight of approximately 800 kDa was supplemented into the medium so that the concentration became 0.01, 0.1, or 1.0 mg/mL. The cultured cells were evaluated using immunocytochemistry for type-2 collagen and real time PCR for gene expression of type-2 collagen, aggrecan, and Sox9 at 7 and 21 days of culture. The cells cultured on the DN gel formed nodules and were stained with an anti-type-2 collagen antibody, and expression of type-2 collagen and aggrecan mRNA was significantly greater on the DN gel than on the PS dish surface (p < 0.05) in the hyaluronic acid-free maintenance medium. Hyaluronic acid supplementation of a high concentration (1.0 mg/mL) significantly enhanced expression of type-2 collagen and aggrecan mRNA in comparison with culture without hyaluronic acid at 21 days (p < 0.05). The DN gel induced chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells without insulin. This effect was significantly affected by hyaluronic acid, depending on the level of concentration. There is a high possibility that hyaluronic acid plays an important role in the in vivo hyaline cartilage regeneration phenomenon induced by the DN gel.

  12. Sustained culture and surgical outcome improvement.

    PubMed

    Babic, Bruna; Volpe, Anita Ayrandjian; Merola, Stephen; Mauer, Elizabeth; Cozacov, Yaniv; Ko, Clifford Y; Michelassi, Fabrizio; Saldinger, Pierre

    2018-02-16

    A focus on the culture of safety and patient outcomes continues to grow in importance. Several initiatives targeted at individual deficits have been described but few institutions have shown the effect of a global change in culture on patient outcomes. Patient care perception was assessed using Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ) by Pascal Metrics ® . A change in culture was initiated, followed by implementation of initiatives targeting communication and patient safety. ACS-NSQIP data was analyzed to assess outcomes during the period of improved culture. Our institution had poor outcomes as measured by ACS-NSQIP data and several deficiencies in our culture score. Both statistically improved after initiative implementation. A difference in mean culture score across time (p < 0.001 = .031) was seen from 2013 to 2015, while NSQIP odds ratios falling in the 'exemplary' category increased. Our results demonstrate an improvement in both culture and outcomes from 2013 to 2015, suggesting a correlation between culture and surgical outcomes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Nursing informatics, outcomes, and quality improvement.

    PubMed

    Charters, Kathleen G

    2003-08-01

    Nursing informatics actively supports nursing by providing standard language systems, databases, decision support, readily accessible research results, and technology assessments. Through normalized datasets spanning an entire enterprise or other large demographic, nursing informatics tools support improvement of healthcare by answering questions about patient outcomes and quality improvement on an enterprise scale, and by providing documentation for business process definition, business process engineering, and strategic planning. Nursing informatics tools provide a way for advanced practice nurses to examine their practice and the effect of their actions on patient outcomes. Analysis of patient outcomes may lead to initiatives for quality improvement. Supported by nursing informatics tools, successful advance practice nurses leverage their quality improvement initiatives against the enterprise strategic plan to gain leadership support and resources.

  14. Photocrosslinked Tyramine-Substituted Hyaluronate Hydrogels with Tunable Mechanical Properties Improve Immediate Tissue‐Hydrogel Interfacial Strength in Articular Cartilage

    PubMed Central

    Donnelly, Patrick E.; Chen, Tony; Finch, Anthony; Brial, Caroline; Maher, Suzanne A.; Torzilli, Peter A.

    2017-01-01

    Articular cartilage lacks the ability to self-repair and a permanent solution for cartilage repair remains elusive. Hydrogel implantation is a promising technique for cartilage repair; however for the technique to be successful hydrogels must interface with the surrounding tissue. The objective of this study was to investigate the tunability of mechanical properties in a hydrogel system using a phenol-substituted polymer, tyramine-substituted hyaluronate (TA-HA), and to determine if the hydrogels could form an interface with cartilage. We hypothesized that tyramine moieties on hyaluronate could crosslink to aromatic amino acids in the cartilage extracellular matrix. Ultraviolet (UV) light and a riboflavin photosensitizer were used to create a hydrogel by tyramine self‐crosslinking. The gel mechanical properties were tuned by varying riboflavin concentration, TA-HA concentration, and UV exposure time. Hydrogels formed with a minimum of 2.5 min of UV exposure. The compressive modulus varied from 5–16 kPa. Fluorescence spectroscopy analysis found differences in dityramine content. Cyanine-3 labelled tyramide reactivity at the surface of cartilage was dependent on the presence of riboflavin and UV exposure time. Hydrogels fabricated within articular cartilage defects had increasing peak interfacial shear stress at the cartilage-hydrogel interface with increasing UV exposure time, reaching a maximum shear stress 3.5× greater than a press‐fit control. Our results found that phenol-substituted polymer/riboflavin systems can be used to fabricate hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties and can interface with the surface tissue, such as articular cartilage. PMID:28134036

  15. Severe Acute Local Reactions to a Hyaluronic Acid-derived Dermal Filler

    PubMed Central

    Hays, Geoffrey P.; Caglia, Anthony E.; Caglia, Michael

    2010-01-01

    Injectable fillers are normally well tolerated by patients with little or no adverse effects. The most common side effects include swelling, redness, bruising, and pain at the injection site. This report describes three cases in which patients injected with a hyaluronic acid-derived injectable filler that is premixed with lidocaine developed adverse reactions including persistent swelling, pain, and nodule formation. Two of the three patients' abscesses were cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and mycobacterium. All three cultures were negative. Abscess persistence in all cases necessitated physical removal and/or enzymatic degradation with hyaluronidase. The effects subsided only after the product had been removed. Two of these patients were subsequently treated with other hyaluronic acid-derived dermal fillers without adverse events. PMID:20725567

  16. The efficacy of intra-articular sodium hyaluronate in patients with reducing displaced disc of the temporomandibular joint.

    PubMed

    Hepguler, S; Akkoc, Y S; Pehlivan, M; Ozturk, C; Celebi, G; Saracoglu, A; Ozpinar, B

    2002-01-01

    In this clinical trial, we examined the efficacy of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment in 38 patients with reducing displaced disc of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Subjects received two unilateral upper space injections of HA or physiological saline solution with 1 week apart. Efficacy was based on the following measurements: pain and sound intensity of the joint measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), modified Helkimo's clinical dysfunction index and the intensity of joint vibration during opening and closing the mouth measured by accelerometers. These measurements were performed before the first injection and 1 and 6 months after the last injection. In the treatment group (n=19), all measurements improved significantly at month 1 and at month 6 compared with the baseline (P < 0.01). The same measurements, in the placebo group (n=19), did not show any change, except for the pain intensity which improved at month 1 and month 6 (P < 0.05). The change in baseline measurements of all of the efficacy criteria at month 1 and at month 6 in the treatment group was significantly better compared with the change obtained with placebo at the same time intervals. This study demonstrates that intra-articular sodium hyaluronate (Orthovisc) injection into the TMJ is an effective treatment for a reducing displaced disc.

  17. Pycnogenol® effects on skin elasticity and hydration coincide with increased gene expressions of collagen type I and hyaluronic acid synthase in women.

    PubMed

    Marini, A; Grether-Beck, S; Jaenicke, T; Weber, M; Burki, C; Formann, P; Brenden, H; Schönlau, F; Krutmann, J

    2012-01-01

    In recent years there has been an increasing interest in the use of nutritional supplements to benefit human skin. Molecular evidence substantiating such effects, however, is scarce. In the present study we investigated whether nutritional supplementation of women with the standardized pine bark extract Pycnogenol® will improve their cosmetic appearance and relate these effects to expression of corresponding molecular markers of their skin. For this purpose 20 healthy postmenopausal women were supplemented with Pycnogenol for 12 weeks. Before, during and after supplementation, their skin condition was assessed (i) by employing non-invasive, biophysical methods including corneometry, cutometry, visioscan and ultrasound analyses and (ii) by taking biopsies and subsequent PCR for gene expression analyses related to extracellular matrix homeostasis. Pycnogenol supplementation was well tolerated in all volunteers. Pycnogenol significantly improved hydration and elasticity of skin. These effects were most pronounced in women presenting with dry skin conditions prior to the start of supplementation. The skin-physiological improvement was accompanied by a significant increase in the mRNA expression of hyaluronic acid synthase-1 (HAS-1), an enzyme critically involved in the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, and a noticeable increase in gene expression involved in collagen de novo synthesis. This study provides skin-physiological and for the first time molecular evidence that Pycnogenol supplementation benefits human skin by increasing skin hydration and skin elasticity. These effects are most likely due to an increased synthesis of extracellular matrix molecules such as hyaluronic acid and possibly collagen. Pycnogenol supplementation may thus be useful to counteract the clinical signs of skin aging. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  18. Role of Bladder Hydrodistention and Intravesical Sodium Hyaluronate in the Treatment of Interstitial Cystitis.

    PubMed

    Yang, Jin-Yi; Wei, Wei; Lan, Yu-Long; Liu, Jun-Qiang; Wang, Hai-Bo; Li, Shao

    2015-12-23

    To evaluate the clinical efficacy of bladder hydrodistention and intravesical sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of interstitial cystitis (IC). Twenty-one patients with IC received intravesical sodium hyaluronate therapy under nerve block or intravenous anesthesia. Bladders were perfused with 100 cmH2O perfusion pressure and expanded for 10 min and were later injected with 40 mg/50 mL sodium hyaluronate through the catheter. After 1 h, the perfusion fluid was released. Perfusion was applied once per week, 4 to 6 times as a course of treatment. Under anesthesia, the average bladder capacity was 191.62 ± 88.67 mL, and after bladder expansion, the bladder capacity reached 425.33 ± 79.83 mL (P = .000). There were 2 suspected bladder ruptures after bladder expansion at 6.5 min and 7.2 min. After 10 min of bladder expansion, there were 19 cases of significantly gross hematuria. After treatment, the catheters of 17 patients were removed at 24 h; for the 2 cases of hematuria, catheters were removed at 72 h and for the 2 cases of suspected bladder rupture, catheters were removed after 4 days. After catheter removal, the pain threshold significantly decreased, and the maximum urinary output increased slightly. Compared with values before treatment, the day before the second injection of sodium hyaluronate, the frequency of urination decreased significantly (32.8 vs. 18.5 times/24 h), the maximum urinary output increased significantly (86.7 vs. 151.9 mL), the pain decreased significantly (8.7 vs. 3.0), and the O'Leary-Sant IC score and quality of life score were significantly decreased (30.0 vs. 17.0 and 5.9 vs. 2.4, respectively) (P = .000). Bladder hydrodistention under anesthesia for patients with severe intractable IC produces immediate effectiveness; sodium hyaluronic infusion can alleviate frequent urination and pain, and the efficacy was positively correlated with the duration of treatment.

  19. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Scaffolds and Multipotent Stromal Cells (MSCs) in Regenerative Medicine.

    PubMed

    Prè, Elena Dai; Conti, Giamaica; Sbarbati, Andrea

    2016-12-01

    Traditional methods for tissue regeneration commonly used synthetic scaffolds to regenerate human tissues. However, they had several limitations, such as foreign body reactions and short time duration. In order to overcome these problems, scaffolds made of natural polymers are preferred. One of the most suitable and widely used materials to fabricate these scaffolds is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is the primary component of the extracellular matrix of the human connective tissue. It is an ideal material for scaffolds used in tissue regeneration, thanks to its properties of biocompatibility, ease of chemical functionalization and degradability. In the last few years, especially from 2010, scientists have seen that the cell-based engineering of these natural scaffolds allows obtaining even better results in terms of tissue regeneration and the research started to grow in this direction. Multipotent stromal cells, also known as mesenchymal stem cells, plastic-adherent cells isolated from bone marrow and other mesenchymal tissues, with self-renew and multi-potency properties are ideal candidates for this aim. Normally, they are pre-seeded onto these scaffolds before their implantation in vivo. This review discusses the use of hyaluronic acid-based scaffolds together with multipotent stromal cells, as a very promising tool in regenerative medicine.

  20. Hyaluronic Acid Gel Injection to Prevent Thermal Injury of Adjacent Gastrointestinal Tract during Percutaneous Liver Radiofrequency Ablation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hasegawa, Takaaki, E-mail: hasegawat@clin.medic.mie-u.ac.jp; Takaki, Haruyuki; Miyagi, Hideki

    2013-08-01

    This study evaluated the safety, feasibility, and clinical utility of hyaluronic acid gel injection to separate the gastrointestinal tract from the tumor during liver radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Eleven patients with liver tumors measuring 0.9-3.5 cm (mean {+-} standard deviation, 2.1 {+-} 0.8 cm) that were adjacent to the gastrointestinal tracts received RFA after the mixture of hyaluronic acid gel and contrast material (volume, 26.4 {+-} 14.5 mL; range, 10-60 mL) was injected between the tumor and the gastrointestinal tract under computed tomographic-fluoroscopic guidance. Each tumor was separated from the gastrointestinal tract by 1.0-1.5 cm (distance, 1.2 {+-} 0.2 cm) aftermore » injection of hyaluronic acid gel, and subsequent RFA was performed without any complications in all patients. Although tumor enhancement disappeared in all patients, local tumor progression was found in a patient (9.1 %, 1 of 11) during the follow-up of 5.5 {+-} 3.2 months (range, 0.4-9.9 months). In conclusion, hyaluronic acid gel injection is a safe and useful technique to avoid thermal injury of the adjacent gastrointestinal tract during liver RFA.« less

  1. Hyaluronic acid hydrogels for vocal fold wound healing.

    PubMed

    Gaston, Joel; Thibeault, Susan L

    2013-01-01

    The unique vibrational properties inherent to the human vocal fold have a significant detrimental impact on wound healing and scar formation. Hydrogels have taken prominence as a tissue engineered strategy to restore normal vocal structure and function as cellularity is low. The frequent vibrational and shear forces applied to, and present in this connective tissue make mechanical properties of such hydrogels a priority in this active area of research. Hyaluronic acid has been chemically modified in a variety of ways to address cell function while maintaining desirable tissue mechanical properties. These various modifications have had mixed results when injected in vivo typically resulting in better biomechanical function but not necessarily with a concomitant decrease in tissue fibrosis. Recent work has focused on seeding mesenchymal progenitor cells within 3D architecture of crosslinked hydrogels. The data from these studies demonstrate that this approach has a positive effect on cells in both early and late wound healing, but little work has been done regarding the biomechanical effects of these treatments. This paper provides an overview of the various hyaluronic acid derivatives, their crosslinking agents, and their effect when implanted into the vocal folds of various animal models.

  2. Hyaluronic acid hydrogels for vocal fold wound healing

    PubMed Central

    Gaston, Joel; Thibeault, Susan L.

    2013-01-01

    The unique vibrational properties inherent to the human vocal fold have a significant detrimental impact on wound healing and scar formation. Hydrogels have taken prominence as a tissue engineered strategy to restore normal vocal structure and function as cellularity is low. The frequent vibrational and shear forces applied to, and present in this connective tissue make mechanical properties of such hydrogels a priority in this active area of research. Hyaluronic acid has been chemically modified in a variety of ways to address cell function while maintaining desirable tissue mechanical properties. These various modifications have had mixed results when injected in vivo typically resulting in better biomechanical function but not necessarily with a concomitant decrease in tissue fibrosis. Recent work has focused on seeding mesenchymal progenitor cells within 3D architecture of crosslinked hydrogels. The data from these studies demonstrate that this approach has a positive effect on cells in both early and late wound healing, but little work has been done regarding the biomechanical effects of these treatments. This paper provides an overview of the various hyaluronic acid derivatives, their crosslinking agents, and their effect when implanted into the vocal folds of various animal models. PMID:23507923

  3. Assessment of clinical practice guideline methodology for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis with intra-articular hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Altman, Roy D; Schemitsch, Emil; Bedi, Asheesh

    2015-10-01

    Clinical practice guidelines are of increasing importance in the decision making for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Inconsistent recommendations regarding the use of intra-articular hyaluronic acid for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis have led to confusion among treating physicians. Literature search to identify clinical practice guidelines that provide recommendations regarding the use of intra-articular hyaluronic acid treatment for knee osteoarthritis was conducted. Included guidelines were appraised using the AGREE II instrument. Guideline development methodologies, how the results were assessed, the recommendation formation, and work group composition were summarized. Overall, 10 clinical practice guidelines were identified that met our inclusion criteria. AGREE II domain scores were variable across the included guidelines. The methodology utilized across the guidelines was heterogeneous regarding the evidence inclusion criteria, analysis of evidence results, formulation of clinical practice recommendations, and work group composition. The recommendations provided by the guidelines for intra-articular hyaluronic acid treatment for knee osteoarthritis are highly inconsistent as a result of the variability in guideline methodology. Overall, 30% of the included guidelines recommended against the use of intra-articular hyaluronic acid in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, while 30% deemed the treatment an appropriate intervention under certain scenarios. The remaining 40% of the guidelines provided either an uncertain recommendation or no recommendation at all, based on the high variability in reviewed evidence regarding efficacy and trial quality. There is a need for a standard "appropriate methodology" that is agreed upon for osteoarthritis clinical practice guidelines in order to prevent the development of conflicting recommendations for intra-articular hyaluronic acid treatment for knee osteoarthritis, and to assure that treating physicians who

  4. Hyaluronic acid-based scaffolds for tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Chircov, Cristina; Grumezescu, Alexandru Mihai; Bejenaru, Ludovic Everard

    2018-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural glycosaminoglycan found in the extracellular matrix of most connective tissues. Due to its chemical structure, HA is a hydrophilic polymer and it is characterized by a fast degradation rate. HA-based scaffolds for tissue engineering are intensively studied due to their increased biocompatibility, biodegradability and chemical modification. Depending on the processing technique, scaffolds can be prepared in the form of hydrogels, sponges, cryogels, and injectable hydrogels, all discussed in this review.

  5. Human glans penis augmentation using injectable hyaluronic acid gel.

    PubMed

    Kim, J J; Kwak, T I; Jeon, B G; Cheon, J; Moon, D G

    2003-12-01

    Although augmentation phalloplasty is not an established procedure, some patients still need enlargement of their penis. Current penile augmentation is girth enhancement of penile body by dermofat graft. We performed this study to identify the efficacy and the patient's satisfaction of human glans penis augmentation with injectable hyaluronic acid gel. In 100 patients of subjective small penis (Group I) and 87 patients of small glans after dermofat graft (Group II), 2 cm(3) of hyaluronic acid gel was injected into the glans penis, subcutaneously. At 1 y after injection, changes of glandular diameter were measured by tapeline. Patient's visual estimation of glandular size (Gr 0-4) and patient's satisfaction (Grade (Gr) 0-4) were evaluated, respectively. Any adverse reactions were also evaluated. The mean age of patients was 42.2 (30-70) y in Group I and 42.13 (28-61) y in Group II. The maximal glandular circumference was significantly increased compared to basal circumference of 9.13+/-0.64 cm in Group I (P<0.01) and 9.49+/-1.05 cm in Group II (P<0.01) at 1 y after injection. Net increase of maximal glandular circumference after glans augmentation was 14.93+/-0.80 mm in Group I and 14.78+/-0.89 mm in Group II. In patient's visual estimation, more than 50% of injected volume was maintained in 95% of Group 1 and 100% of Group II. The percentage of postoperative satisfaction (Gr 4, 5) was 77% in Group 1 and 69% in Group II. There was no abnormal reaction in area feeling, texture, and color. In most cases, initial discoloration by glandular swelling recovered to normal within 2 weeks. There were no signs of inflammation and no serious adverse reactions in all cases. These results suggest that injectable hyaluronic acid gel is a safe and effective material for augmentation of glans penis.

  6. Intraocular Pressure Increases After Intraarticular Knee Injection With Triamcinolone but Not Hyaluronic Acid.

    PubMed

    Taliaferro, Kevin; Crawford, Alexander; Jabara, Justin; Lynch, Jonathan; Jung, Edward; Zvirbulis, Raimonds; Banka, Trevor

    2018-07-01

    Intraarticular steroid injections are a common first-line therapy for severe osteoarthritis, which affects an estimated 27 million people in the United States. Although topical, oral, intranasal, and inhalational steroids are known to increase intraocular pressure in some patients, the effect of intraarticular steroid injections on intraocular pressure has not been investigated, to the best of our knowledge. If elevated intraocular pressure is sustained for long periods of time or is of sufficient magnitude acutely, permanent loss of the visual field can occur. How does intraocular pressure change 1 week after an intraarticular knee injection either with triamcinolone acetonide or hyaluronic acid? A nonrandomized, nonblinded prospective cohort study was conducted at an outpatient, ambulatory orthopaedic clinic. This study compared intraocular pressure elevation before and 1 week after intraarticular knee injection of triamcinolone acetonide versus hyaluronic acid for management of primary osteoarthritis of the knee. Patients self-selected to be injected in their knee with either triamcinolone acetonide or hyaluronic acid before being informed of the study. The primary endpoint was intraocular pressure elevation of ≥ 7 mm Hg 1 week after injection. This cutoff is determined as the minimum significant pressure change in the ophthalmology literature recognized as an intermediate responder to steroids. Intraocular pressure was measured using a handheld Tono-Pen® applanation device. This device is frequently used in intraocular pressure measurement in clinical and research settings; 10 sequential measurements are obtained and averaged with a confidence interval. Only measurements with a 95% confidence interval were used. Over a 6-month period, a total of 96 patients were approached to enroll in the study. Sixty-two patients out of 96 approached (65%) agreed. Thirty-one (50%) were injected with triamcinolone and 31 (50%) were injected with hyaluronic acid. Patients

  7. Effects of topical hyaluronic acid on corneal wound healing in dogs: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Gronkiewicz, Kristina M; Giuliano, Elizabeth A; Sharma, Ajay; Mohan, Rajiv R

    2017-03-01

    To investigate the efficacy of topical 0.2% hyaluronic acid in canine corneal ulcers in vivo. Six purpose-bred beagles were randomly assigned into two groups (three dogs/group): group A received experimental product (Optimend ™ , containing 0.2% hyaluronic acid, KineticVet ™ ); group B received control product (Optimend ™ without 0.2% hyaluronic acid and supplemented with carboxymethylcellulose). The clinical scorer was masked to product content and subject assignment. Under sedation and topical anesthesia, 6-mm axial corneal epithelial debridements were performed in the left eye. Wounded corneas received standard ulcer treatment and topical product (group A) or control product (group B) three times a day (TID) until ulcers were healed. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy was performed 6 h after wounding and then every 12 h; findings were graded according to modified McDonald-Shadduck scoring system; extraocular photography was performed after fluorescein stain application at all examination time points. Images were analyzed using NIH image j software to quantify rate of corneal epithelialization. Gelatin zymography was used to analyze matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and 9 protein expression in tears collected at set time points during the study period. No statistical differences in clinical ophthalmic examination scores, rate of corneal epithelialization, or MMP2 or MMP9 protein expression were found between groups at any tested time point. The application of 0.2% hyaluronic acid to standard ulcer medical management is well tolerated. Topical addition of the viscoelastic did not accelerate corneal wound healing compared to a topical control with similar viscosity in this study. © 2016 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

  8. Development and characterization of crosslinked hyaluronic acid polymeric films for use in coating processes.

    PubMed

    Sgorla, Débora; Almeida, Andreia; Azevedo, Claudia; Bunhak, Ÿlcio Jose; Sarmento, Bruno; Cavalcanti, Osvaldo Albuquerque

    2016-09-10

    The aim of this work was to develop and characterize new hyaluronic acid-based responsive materials for film coating of solid dosage forms. Crosslinking of hyaluronic acid with trisodium trimetaphosphate was performed under controlled alkaline aqueous environment. The films were produced through casting process by mixing crosslinked or bare biopolymer in aqueous dispersion of ethylcellulose, at different proportions. Films were further characterized regarding morphology by scanning electron microscopy, robustness by permeation to water vapor transmission, and ability to hydrate in simulated gastric and intestinal physiological fluids. The safety and biocompatibility of films were assessed against Caco-2 and HT29-MTX intestinal cells. The permeation to water vapor transmission was favored by increasing hyaluronic acid content in the final formulation. When in simulated gastric fluid, films exhibited lower hydration ability compared to more extensive hydration in simulated intestinal fluids. Simultaneously, in simulated intestinal fluids, films partially lost weight, revealing ability for preventing drug release at gastric pH, but tailoring the release at higher intestinal pH. The physiochemical characterization suggests thermal stability of films and physical interaction between compounds of formulation. Lastly, cytotoxicity tests demonstrated that films and individual components of the formulations, when incubated for 4h, were safe for intestinal cells Overall, these evidences suggest that hyaluronic acid-based responsive films, applied as coating material of oral solid dosage forms, can prevent the premature release of drugs in harsh stomach conditions, but control the release it in gastrointestinal tract distal portion, assuring safety to intestinal mucosa. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. [Efficacy of hyaluronic acid in the treatment of chronic gingivitis in children].

    PubMed

    Igić, Marija; Mihailović, Dragan; Kesić, Ljiljana; Apostolović, Mirjana; Kostadinović, Ljiljana; Janjić, Olivera Tricković; Milasin, Jelena

    2011-12-01

    Gingivitis is a common occurrence in children and may well be thought as a risk factor for the appearance and progression of the diseases of parodontal tissues. It is thus necessary to react in a timely and adequate fashion to prevent the disease to become serious and produce parodontopathy. The aim of the study was to establish the efficacy of hyaluronic acid in the treatment of chronic gingivitis in children. The study enrolled 130 children with permanent dentition. All of the examinees were divided into three groups: group I--50 patients with chronic gingivitis in which only the basic treatment was applied; group II--50 patients with chronic gingivitis in which hyaluronic acid was applied in addition to basic treatment; group III--30 examinees with healthy gingiva (control group). Assessment of oral hygiene and status of the gingiva and parodontium was done using the appropriate indexes before and after the treatment. Inflammation of the gingiva was monitored by way of cytomorphometric studies. The pretreatment values of the plaque index (PI) were high: in the group I PI was 1.94; in the group II PI was 1.68. After the treatment, the PI value was reduced to null in both groups (PI = 0). In the group III PI was 0.17. The bleeding index (B1) in the group I was 2.02 before and 0.32 after the treatment; the BI value in the group II was 1.74 before and 0.16 after the treatment. In the group III BI was 0. In the group I, the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) was 1.66 before and 0.32 after the treatment; in the group II, the CPITN value was 1.5 before and 0.24 after the treatment. In the group III, the CPITN value was 0. In the group I, the size of the nuclei of the stratified squamous epithelium of the gingiva was reduced, although not so much as the nuclear size in the group II of examinees. CONCLUSION. Basic treatment is able to successfully treat chronic gingivitis in children. The use of hyaluronic acid together with the basic treatment can

  10. Synthesis, characterization and liver targeting evaluation of self-assembled hyaluronic acid nanoparticles functionalized with glycyrrhetinic acid.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xiaodan; Gu, Xiangqin; Wang, Huimin; Sun, Yujiao; Wu, Haiyang; Mao, Shirui

    2017-01-01

    Recently, polymeric materials with multiple functions have drawn great attention as the carrier for drug delivery system design. In this study, a series of multifunctional drug delivery carriers, hyaluronic acid (HA)-glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) succinate (HSG) copolymers were synthesized via hydroxyl group modification of hyaluronic acid. It was shown that the HSG nanoparticles had sub-spherical shape, and the particle size was in the range of 152.6-260.7nm depending on GA graft ratio. HSG nanoparticles presented good short term and dilution stability. MTT assay demonstrated all the copolymers presented no significant cytotoxicity. In vivo imaging analysis suggested HSG nanoparticles had superior liver targeting efficiency and the liver targeting capacity was GA graft ratio dependent. The accumulation of DiR (a lipophilic, NIR fluorescent cyanine dye)-loaded HSG-6, HSG-12, and HSG-20 nanoparticles in liver was 1.8-, 2.1-, and 2.9-fold higher than that of free DiR. The binding site of GA on HA may influence liver targeting efficiency. These results indicated that HSG copolymers based nanoparticles are potential drug carrier for improved liver targeting. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. An experimental study of tissue reaction to hyaluronic acid (Restylane) and polymethylmethacrylate (Metacrill) in the mouse.

    PubMed

    Rosa, Simone C; Macedo, Jefferson L S; Magalhães, Albino V

    2012-10-01

    The aging skin is a challenge for medical science. Plastic surgeons and dermatologists are called every day to solve problems like filling wrinkles or folds. The material used must be biocompatible because abnormal reactions may cause catastrophic results. This study analyzes the biological behavior of polymethylmethacrylate (Metacrill) and hyaluronic acid (Restylane), using a histopathologic study in mice. A prospective study was performed using 40 mice for each substance: polymethylmethacrylate or hyaluronic acid was injected into the right ear, the left ear been used as a control. Histopathologic analyses of the right ear, liver, and kidney were performed at intervals during the study and revealed the development of a granulomatous reaction with fibrosis and absorption of spheres and signs of liver and kidney sistematization for polymethylmethacrylate. A discrete cellular reaction, with less formation of fibrosis, and no giant cells were seen in the mice injected with hyaluronic acid.

  12. Preparation and characterization of composites based on the blends of collagen, chitosan and hyaluronic acid with nano-hydroxyapatite.

    PubMed

    Sionkowska, Alina; Kaczmarek, Beata

    2017-09-01

    3D porous composites based on the blend of chitosan, collagen and hyaluronic acid with the addition of nano-hydroxyapatite were prepared. SEM images for the composites were made and the structure was assessed. Mechanical properties were studied using a Zwick&Roell Testing Mashine. In addition, the porosity and density of composites were measured. The concentration of calcium ions released from the material was detected by the complexometric titration method. The results showed that in 3D porous sponge based on the blend of chitosan, collagen and hyaluronic acid, inorganic particles of nanohydroxyapatite can be incorporated, as well as that the properties of 3D composites depend on the material composition. Mechanical parameters and thermal stability of ternary biopolymeric blends were improved by the addition of hydroxyapatite. Moreover, the porosity of ternary materials was higher than in materials based on pure chitosan or collagen. All composites were characterized by a porous structure with interconnected pores. Calcium ions can be released from the composite during its degradation in water. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Minimal recovery time needed to return to social engagement following nasolabial fold correction with hyaluronic acid fillers produced with XpresHAn technology.

    PubMed

    Swift, Arthur; von Grote, Erika; Jonas, Brandie; Nogueira, Alessandra

    2017-01-01

    The appeal of hyaluronic acid fillers for facial soft tissue augmentation is attributable to both an immediate aesthetic effect and relatively short recovery time. Although recovery time is an important posttreatment variable, as it impacts comfort with appearance and perceived treatment benefit, it is not routinely evaluated. Natural-looking aesthetic outcomes are also a primary concern for many patients. A single-center, noncomparative study evaluated the time (in hours) until subjects return to social engagement (RtSE) following correction of moderate and severe nasolabial folds (NLFs) with R R (Restylane ® Refyne) ® and R D (Restylane Defyne), respectively. Twenty subjects (aged 35-57 years) who received bilateral NLF correction documented their RtSE and injection-related events posttreatment. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by improvements in Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS) and subject satisfaction questionnaire at days 14 and 30, and by Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) at day 30. Safety was evaluated by injection-related events and treatment-emergent adverse events. Fifty percent of subjects reported RtSE within 2 hours posttreatment. WSRS for the R R group improved significantly from baseline at day 14 (-1.45±0.42) and day 30 (-1.68±0.46) ( P <0.001), respectively. WSRS for the R D group improved significantly from baseline at day 14 (-2.22±0.44) and day 30 (-2.50±0.50) ( P <0.004), respectively. All GAIS improvements were clinically significant at day 30. The majority of injection-related events were mild or moderate. Two subjects experienced 3 related treatment-emergent adverse events; 1 R R subject experienced severe bruising, and 1 R D subject experienced severe erythema and mild telangiectasia. Subject satisfaction was high regarding aesthetic outcomes and natural-looking results. Optimal correction of moderate NLFs with R R and severe NLFs with R D involved minimal time to RtSE for most subjects. Treatments that significantly

  14. Hyaluronic Acid Improves Bone Formation in Extraction Sockets With Chronic Pathology: A Pilot Study in Dogs.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jung-Ju; Song, Hyun Young; Ben Amara, Heithem; Kyung-Rim, Kang; Koo, Ki-Tae

    2016-07-01

    Previous studies on ridge preservation focusing on fresh extraction sockets using graft materials for ridge preservation procedures have reported a delay in the tissue modeling and remodeling phases. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of hyaluronic acid (HA) on healing of infected sockets. Six beagle dogs were used in this study. Both mandibular third premolars were hemisected, and the distal roots were extracted. Subsequently, periodontal and endodontic lesions were induced at the remaining mesial root. After communication of the periodontal lesion, an endodontic periapical lesion was observed at 4 months, and the mesial roots of both the right and left sides were extracted. HA was applied into the socket of the test group, and no treatment was administered to the other group (control group). Three months after extraction of the mesial roots, the dogs were sacrificed, and histologic evaluations were performed. The sockets were filled by mineralized bone (47.80% ± 6.60%) and bone marrow (50.47% ± 6.38%) in the control group, whereas corresponding values were 63.29% ± 9.78% and 34.73% ± 8.97% for the test group, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups. Reversal lines and a copious lineup of osteoblasts were observed in the middle and apical parts of the sockets in the test group. An infected socket shows delayed healing of the socket wound, and HA, because of its osteoinductive, bacteriostatic, and anti-inflammatory properties, may improve bone formation and accelerate wound healing in infected sockets.

  15. Can hybrid hyaluronic acid represent a valid approach to treat rizoarthrosis? A retrospective comparative study.

    PubMed

    Tenti, Sara; Pascarelli, Nicola Antonio; Giannotti, Stefano; Galeazzi, Mauro; Giordano, Nicola; Fioravanti, Antonella

    2017-11-13

    Osteoarthritis (OA) of the trapeziometacarpal joint (TMJ) is a disabling condition with a significant impact on quality of life. The optimal management of hand OA requires a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments that include intra-articular (i.a.) therapy. EULAR experts recommend corticosteroid injections in TMJ OA and underline the usefulness of hyaluronic acid (HA). The aim of this study was the assessment of the efficacy and tolerability of i.a. injections of a hybrid formulation of HA (Sinovial H-L®) in comparison to triamcinolone in patients with TMJ OA. This 6-months observational comparative study, retrospective analyzed the medical records of 100 patients with monolateral or bilateral TMJ OA, treated with two injections of Sinovial H-L® (Sinovial H-L Group) or of triamcinolone acetonide (Triamcinolone Group). Clinical assessments were recorded at the time of the first and second injection and after one, 3 and 6 months. The primary outcomes were the change in global pain on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and in hand function evaluated by the Functional Index for Hand OA (FIHOA) from baseline to month 6. Secondary outcomes were the improvement of the duration of morning stiffness, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form (SF-36). The comparison between the two groups of treatment were performed with the Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables and with chi-square or Fisher exact test for categorical variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Both therapies provided effective pain relief and joint function improvement, but the benefits achieved were statistically significantly superior in the Sinovial H-L Group than the Triamcinolone Group after one month (p < 0.01) from the beginning of the therapy and during the 6-months follow-up (p < 0.001). Furthermore, Sinovial H-L® was associated with a significant decrease in the duration of morning stiffness

  16. 3-Dimensional functionalized polycaprolactone-hyaluronic acid hydrogel constructs for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Hamlet, Stephen M; Vaquette, Cedryck; Shah, Amit; Hutmacher, Dietmar W; Ivanovski, Saso

    2017-04-01

    Alveolar bone regeneration remains a significant clinical challenge in periodontology and dental implantology. This study assessed the mineralized tissue forming potential of 3-D printed medical grade polycaprolactone (mPCL) constructs containing osteoblasts (OB) encapsulated in a hyaluronic acid (HA)-hydrogel incorporating bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7). HA-hydrogels containing human OB ± BMP-7 were prepared. Cell viability, osteogenic gene expression, mineralized tissue formation and BMP-7 release in vitro, were assessed by fluorescence staining, RT-PCR, histological/μ-CT examination and ELISA respectively. In an athymic rat model, subcutaneous ectopic mineralized tissue formation in mPCL-hydrogel constructs was assessed by μ-CT and histology. Osteoblast encapsulation in HA-hydrogels did not detrimentally effect cell viability, and 3-D culture in osteogenic media showed mineralized collagenous matrix formation after 6 weeks. BMP-7 release from the hydrogel was biphasic, sustained and increased osteogenic gene expression in vitro. After 4 weeks in vivo, mPCL-hydrogel constructs containing BMP-7 formed significantly more volume (mm 3 ) of vascularized bone-like tissue. Functionalized mPCL-HA hydrogel constructs provide a favourable environment for bone tissue engineering. Although encapsulated cells contributed to mineralized tissue formation within the hydrogel in vitro and in vivo, their addition did not result in an improved outcome compared to BMP-7 alone. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  17. Inhibition of hyaluronic acid formation sensitizes chronic myelogenous leukemia to treatment with doxorubicin.

    PubMed

    Uchakina, Olga N; Ban, Hao; Hostetler, Bryan J; McKallip, Robert J

    2016-11-01

    In the current study we examined the ability of 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU), which can inhibit hyaluronic acid synthesis, to sensitize K562 chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cells to doxorubicin therapy. Exposure of K562 cells to doxorubicin led to increased hyaluronic acid synthase (HAS) gene expression and increased levels of cell surface hyaluronic acid. Furthermore, exposure of K562 cells to exogenous HA caused resistance to doxorubicin-induced cell death. The combination of low dose 4-MU and doxorubicin led to increased apoptosis when compared to higher doses of any agent alone. Additionally, treatment with 4-MU led to a significant reduction in doxorubicin-induced increase in HA cell surface expression. Mechanistically, 4-MU treatment led to an increase in p38 activation and PARP cleavage. The role of p38 in 4-MU/doxorubicin-treated K562 cells was confirmed when p38 inhibitors led to protection from 4-MU/doxorubicin-induced apoptosis. Together, results from this study suggest that treatment with 4-MU increases the sensitivity of CML to chemotherapeutics by decreasing their HA-mediated resistance to apoptosis. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  18. A serum-free medium for colony growth and hyaluronic acid production by Streptococcus zooepidemicus NJUST01.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jianfa; Ding, Xia; Yang, Liuyan; Kong, Zhiming

    2006-08-01

    A hyaluronic acid (HA)-producing strain, Streptococcus zooepidemicus NJUST01, can grow in a serum-free agar medium, with starch as exclusive carbon source, but not glucose, sucrose, dextrine, xylose, or lactose. In this starch medium, the strain NJUST01 reproduced successively at 37 degrees C for 60 generations, with no obvious variation on morphology and physiology, but colonies of the strain after 60th generation could not produce a clear hemolytic zone on sheep blood agar plates. Hyaluronic acid production by the strain NJUST01 was analyzed relative to the starch medium. Employing a multifactor cross experiment, an optimum medium revealed for hyaluronic acid production was composed of 5% starch, 0.3% glucose, 0.5% peptone, 0.15% MgSO4, and 2.0% K2HPO4. The amount of HA 6.7 g/l was obtained in batch fermentation on a rotary shaker at 37 degrees C, 220 rpm for 36 h.

  19. Temperature and magnetic field responsive hyaluronic acid particles with tunable physical and chemical properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ekici, Sema; Ilgin, Pinar; Yilmaz, Selahattin; Aktas, Nahit; Sahiner, Nurettin

    2011-01-01

    We report the preparation and characterization of thiolated-temperature-responsive hyaluronic acid-cysteamine-N-isopropyl acrylamide (HA-CYs-NIPAm) particles and thiolated-magnetic-responsive hyaluronic acid (HA-Fe-CYs) particles. Linear hyaluronic acid (HA) crosslinked with divinyl sulfone as HA particles was prepared using a water-in-oil micro emulsion system which were then oxidized HA-O with NaIO4 to develop aldehyde groups on the particle surface. HA-O hydrogel particles were then reacted with cysteamine (CYs) which interacted with aldehydes on the HA surface to form HA particles with cysteamine (HA-CYs) functionality on the surface. HA-CYs particles were further exposed to radical polymerization with NIPAm to obtain temperature responsive HA-CYs-NIPAm hydrogel particles. To acquire magnetic field responsive HA composites, magnetic iron particles were included in HA to form HA-Fe during HA particle preparation. HA-Fe hydrogel particles were also chemically modified. The prepared HA-CYs-NIPAm demonstrated temperature dependent size variations and phase transition temperature. HA-CYs-NIPAm and HA-Fe-CYs particles can be used as drug delivery vehicles. Sulfamethoxazole (SMZ), an antibacterial drug, was used as a model drug for temperature-induced release studies from these particles.

  20. The equilibrium sedimentation of hyaluronic acid and of two synthetic polymers

    PubMed Central

    Nichol, L. W.; Ogston, A. G.; Preston, B. N.

    1967-01-01

    1. The method of equilibrium sedimentation has been investigated as an alternative to osmotic-pressure measurement for determining thermodynamic properties of polymer solutions at relatively high concentrations. 2. The simplifications that must be made in the theoretical treatment are discussed. 3. Measurements have been made on samples of polyethylene glycol, neutralized polymethacrylic acid and hyaluronic acid. With the first and third, values of the `non-ideality coefficients' have been obtained that agree with those obtained from osmotic measurements on the same materials. 4. Evidence has been obtained of the presence in hyaluronic acid preparations of a fraction that has either a lower degree of thermodynamic non-ideality or a higher density increment than the bulk of the sample. This fraction is not protein. ImagesFig. 3.Fig. 4.Fig. 5.Fig. 7.Fig. 8.Fig. 9.Fig. 11.Fig. 12.Fig. 13.Fig. 14. PMID:6029600

  1. A Single Center, Prospective, Randomized, Sham-Controlled, Double-Blinded, Split-Face Trial Using Microinjections of Transparent Hyaluronic Acid Gel for Cheek Rejuvenation.

    PubMed

    Jones, Isabela T; Vanaman Wilson, Monique J; Bolton, Joanna; Zaleski-Larsen, Lisa; Wu, Douglas C; Goldman, Mitchel P

    2018-06-01

    "Skin boosting" with injections of hyaluronic acid has been demonstrated to improve aged skin. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of small-particle hyaluronic acid with lidocaine (SP-HAL) microaliquots for the correction of fine lines of the cheeks. Twenty subjects with mild to moderate static mid to lower cheek rhytides were enrolled. The right or left cheek was randomized to receive 1 mL of SP-HAL using a microdroplet technique, with the contralateral cheek treated with sham injection of sterile normal saline. The degree of cheek wrinkling and elastosis based on the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale was assessed at baseline and 7, 14, 30, 90, and 180 days after treatment. Subjects rated their satisfaction at days 90 and 180. Fourteen patients completed the study. There were no statistically significant improvements in wrinkling or elastosis of the SP-HAL-treated cheek or control cheek at any time point. In addition, there were no significant differences in wrinkling, elastosis, or patient satisfaction between the treatment cheek and control cheek. One treatment of intradermal microdroplet injections of SP-HAL to the mid to lower cheek failed to show superiority over normal saline in improving clinical signs of skin wrinkling and elastosis.

  2. Safety and Efficacy of Cortisol Phosphate in Hyaluronic Acid Vehicle in the Treatment of Dry Eye in Sjogren Syndrome.

    PubMed

    Rolando, Maurizio; Vagge, Aldo

    2017-06-01

    Evaluation of 0.3% cortisol phosphate eye drops in hyaluronic acid vehicle in the treatment of dry eye in Sjogren Syndrome. This prospective, single-center, masked (single blind), randomized controlled study included 40 female patients divided into 2 groups, group 1 treated with Idracemi, 0.3% cortisol phosphate eye drops twice a day, and group 2 treated with Cortivis, 0.3% cortisol phosphate in hyaluronic acid vehicle, with the same posology. Screening (day -7), randomization (day 0), follow-up (day 7), and termination (day 28) visits were conducted. Symptoms (VAS) questionnaire, tear film breakup time, corneo-conjunctival stain, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, and fundus examination were performed at each visit. Conjunctival impression cytology for human leukocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR) expression at visit 1 and 4 was also performed. No changes in IOP or fundus examination were observed in either group at each time point. Group 1 showed at day 28 a statistically significant amelioration of symptoms and reduction of HLA-DR expression. Group 2 showed at day 7 statistically significant improvement of corneal and conjunctival stain versus baseline and versus group 1; the symptom score was statistically significantly better than baseline and versus group 1 after 28 days too. The HLA-DR expression and the epithelial cell area were statistically significantly reduced versus baseline and versus group 1 at the same time. Cortisol phosphate proved to be safe and effective in treating dry eye in Sjogren Syndrome patients in both formulations. However, the formula with hyaluronic acid vehicle proved to be more effective. Both formulations were very well tolerated.

  3. Pyrrole-hyaluronic acid conjugates for decreasing cell binding to metals and conducting polymers

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Jae Young; Schmidt, Christine E.

    2010-01-01

    Surface modification of electrically conductive biomaterials has been studied to improve biocompatibility for a number of applications, such as implantable sensors and microelectrode arrays. In this study, we electrochemically coated electrodes with biocompatible and non-cell adhesive hyaluronic acid (HA) to reduce cellular adhesion for potential use in neural prostheses. To this end, pyrrole-conjugated hyaluronic acid (PyHA) was synthesized and employed for electrochemical coating of platinum, indium-tin-oxide, and polystyrene sulfonate-doped polypyrrole electrodes. This PyHA conjugate consists of (1) a pyrrole moiety that allows the compound to be electrochemically deposited onto a conductive substrate and (2) non-adhesive HA to minimize cell adhesion and to potentially decrease inflammatory tissue responses. Our characterization results showed the presence of a hydrophilic p(PyHA) layer on the modified electrode, and impedance measurements revealed impedance that was statistically the same as the unmodified electrode. We found that the p(PyHA)-coated electrodes minimized adhesion and migration of fibroblasts and astrocytes for a minimum of up to 3 months. Also, the coating was stable in physiological solution for 3 months and also stable against enzymatic degradation by hyaluronidase. These studies suggest that this p(PyHA)-coating has the potential to be used to mask conducting electrodes from adverse glial responses that occur upon implantation. In addition, electrochemical coating with PyHA can be potentially extended for the surface modification of other metallic and conducting substances such as stents and biosensors. PMID:20558330

  4. Evaluation of Hyaluronic Acid Dilutions at Different Concentrations Using a Quartz Crystal Resonator (QCR) for the Potential Diagnosis of Arthritic Diseases

    PubMed Central

    Ahumada, Luis Armando Carvajal; González, Marco Xavier Rivera; Sandoval, Oscar Leonardo Herrera; Olmedo, José Javier Serrano

    2016-01-01

    The main objective of this article is to demonstrate through experimental means the capacity of the quartz crystal resonator (QCR) to characterize biological samples of aqueous dilutions of hyaluronic acid according to their viscosity and how this capacity may be useful in the potential diagnosis of arthritic diseases. The synovial fluid is viscous due to the presence of hyaluronic acid, synthesized by synovial lining cells (type B), and secreted into the synovial fluid thus making the fluid viscous. In consequence, aqueous dilutions of hyaluronic acid may be used as samples to emulate the synovial fluid. Due to the viscoelastic and pseudo-plastic behavior of hyaluronic acid, it is necessary to use the Rouse model in order to obtain viscosity values comparable with viscometer measures. A Fungilab viscometer (rheometer) was used to obtain reference measures of the viscosity in each sample in order to compare them with the QCR prototype measures. PMID:27879675

  5. Comparison of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid and corticosteroid in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip in comparison with intra-articular injections of bupivacaine. Design of a prospective, randomized, controlled study with blinding of the patients and outcome assessors.

    PubMed

    Colen, Sascha; van den Bekerom, Michel P J; Bellemans, Johan; Mulier, Michiel

    2010-11-16

    Although intra-articular hyaluronic acid is well established as a treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee, its use in hip osteoarthritis is not based on large randomized controlled trials. There is a need for more rigorously designed studies on hip osteoarthritis treatment as this subject is still very much under debate. Randomized, controlled trial with a three-armed, parallel-group design. Approximately 315 patients complying with the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be randomized into one of the following treatment groups: infiltration of the hip joint with hyaluronic acid, with a corticosteroid or with 0.125% bupivacaine.The following outcome measure instruments will be assessed at baseline, i.e. before the intra-articular injection of one of the study products, and then again at six weeks, 3 and 6 months after the initial injection: Pain (100 mm VAS), Harris Hip Score and HOOS, patient assessment of their clinical status (worse, stable or better then at the time of enrollment) and intake of pain rescue medication (number per week). In addition patients will be asked if they have complications/adverse events. The six-month follow-up period for all patients will begin on the date the first injection is administered. This randomized, controlled, three-arm study will hopefully provide robust information on two of the intra-articular treatments used in hip osteoarthritis, in comparison to bupivacaine. NCT01079455.

  6. Hyaluronate nanoparticles included in polymer films for the prolonged release of vitamin E for the management of skin wounds.

    PubMed

    Pereira, Gabriela Garrastazu; Detoni, Cassia Britto; Balducci, Anna Giulia; Rondelli, Valeria; Colombo, Paolo; Guterres, Silvia Stanisçuaski; Sonvico, Fabio

    2016-02-15

    Lecithin and hyaluronic acid were used for the preparation of polysaccharide decorated nanoparticles loaded with vitamin E using the cationic lipid dioctadecyldimethylammonium bromide (DODMA). Nanoparticles showed mean particle size in the range 130-350 nm and narrow size distribution. Vitamin E encapsulation efficiency was higher than 99%. These nanoparticles were incorporated in polymeric films containing Aloe vera extract, hyaluronic acid, sodium alginate, polyethyleneoxide (PEO) and polyvinylalcohol (PVA) as an innovative treatment in skin wounds. Films were thin, flexible, resistant and suitable for application on burn wounds. Additionally, in vitro occlusion study highlighted the dependence of the occlusive effect on the presence of nanoparticles. The results obtained show that the bioadhesive films containing vitamin E acetate and Aloe vera could be an innovative therapeutic system for the treatment of skin wounds, such as burns. The controlled release of the vitamin along with a reduction in water loss through damaged skin provided by the nanoparticle-loaded polymer film are considered important features for an improvement in wound healing and skin regeneration. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Hyaluronic acid effect on adipose-derived stem cells. Biological in vitro evaluation.

    PubMed

    Moreno, A; Martínez, A; Olmedillas, S; Bello, S; de Miguel, F

    2015-01-01

    To evaluate the in vitro effects of hyaluronic acid (HA) on adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) in order to consider the possibility of their combined used in the treatment of knee arthrosis. The ASC cells were grown both in the presence and absence of AH, and several studies were carried out: proliferation (WST8) and cell viability studies (Alamar Blue® and Trypan Blue), possible chondrogenic differentiation (collagen type 2 expression) by RT-PCR, AH receptor expression (CD44) by flow cytometry and RT-QPCR, and expression of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors (IL-6, TGFß, IL-10) by RT-QPCR. The number of ASC significantly increased after 7 days with HA (158±39%, p <0.05). Additionally, the cell viability of the ASC treated with HA after 1, 3, 5 and 7 days was similar to that of the control cells, being considered non-toxic. There were no changes observed in the expression of CD44 and chondrogenic differentiation. TGFß expression was not modified after AH treatment, but there was a 4-fold decrease in IL-6 expression and IL-10 expression increased up to 2-fold compared to control cells. Hyaluronic acid favours ASC proliferation without causing cellular toxicity, and inducing an anti-inflammatory profile in these cells. Hyaluronic acid appears to be a suitable vehicle for the intra-articular administration of mesenchymal stem cells. Copyright © 2014 SECOT. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  8. Changes of synovial fluid protein concentrations in supra-patellar bursitis patients after the injection of different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Chen, Carl P C; Hsu, Chih Chin; Pei, Yu-Cheng; Chen, Ruo Li; Zhou, Shaobo; Shen, Hsuan-Chen; Lin, Shih-Cherng; Tsai, Wen Chung

    2014-04-01

    Knee pain is commonly seen in orthopedic and rehabilitation outpatient clinical settings, and in the aging population. Bursitis of the knee joint, especially when the volume of the synovial fluid is large enough, can compress and distend the nearby soft tissues, causing pain in the knee joint. Out of all the bursae surrounding the knee joint, supra-patellar bursitis is most often associated with knee pain. Treatment strategies in managing supra-patellar bursitis include the aspiration of joint synovial fluid and then followed by steroid injection into the bursa. When supra-patellar bursitis is caused by degenerative disorders, the concept of viscosupplementation treatment may be effective by injecting hyaluronic acid into the bursa. However, the rheology or the changes in the concentrations of proteins (biomarkers) that are related to the development of bursitis in the synovial fluid is virtually unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the concentration changes in the synovial fluid total protein amount and individual proteins associated with supra-patellar bursitis using the Bradford protein assay and western immunoglobulin methods. A total of 20 patients were divided into two groups with 10 patients in each group. One group received the high molecular weight hyaluronic acid product of Synvisc Hylan G-F 20 and the other group received the low molecular weight hyaluronic acid product of Hya-Joint Synovial Fluid Supplement once per week injection into the bursa for a total of 3 weeks. Significant decreases in the synovial fluid total protein concentrations were observed after the second dosage of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid injections. Apolipoprotein A-I, interleukin 1 beta, alpha 1 antitrypsin, and matrix metalloproteinase 1 proteins revealed a trend of decreasing western immunoblotting band densities after hyaluronic acid injections. The decreases in apolipoprotein A-I and interleukin 1 beta protein band densities were significant in the high

  9. Hyaluronic acid as a potential boron carrier for BNCT: Preliminary evaluation.

    PubMed

    Zaboronok, A; Yamamoto, T; Nakai, K; Yoshida, F; Uspenskii, S; Selyanin, M; Zelenetskii, A; Matsumura, Akira

    2015-12-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA), a nonimmunogenic, biocompatible polymer found in different biological tissues, has the potential to attach to CD44 receptors on the surface of certain cancer cells, where the receptor is overexpressed compared with normal cells. Boron-hyaluronic acid (BHA) was tested for its feasibility as a potential agent for BNCT. BHA with low-viscosity 30 kDa HA could be administered by intravenous injection. The compound showed a certain degree of cytotoxicity and accumulation in C6 rat glioma cells in vitro. Instability of the chelate bonds between boron and HA and/or insufficient specificity of CD44 receptors on C6 cells to BHA could account for the insufficient in vitro accumulation. To ensure the future eligibility of BHA for BNCT experiments, using alternative tumor cell lines and chemically securing the chelate bonds or synthesizing BHA with boron covalently attached to HA might be required. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Noninvasive penetration of 5 nm hyaluronic acid molecules across the epidermal barrier (in vitro) and its interaction with human skin cells.

    PubMed

    Nashchekina, Yu A; Raydan, M

    2018-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid represents one of the major components of the extracellular environment. The main challenge remains in the ability to deliver these molecules noninvasively across the skin barrier, which can be overcome by the reduction in size to an extent that allows these molecules to pass across the skin barrier. The aim of this study was to measure the penetration and bioavailability of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid to cross an epidermal barrier model. Determining the quantity of hyaluronic acid in the test solutions was carried with method of photocolorimetry analysis. Investigation of the interaction of cells with LMWHA was studied with a confocal microscope. The study showed that LMWHA is able to cross the epidermis. Most effective penetration level is during the first 6 hours reaching 75%, and then the concentration started to decline and reached the equilibrium state within the following 2 hours. Confocal laser microscopy demonstrated different distribution and behavior of these molecules among the keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Reducing the size of hyaluronic acid to 5 nm enhance their transport across the epidermal layer. The concentration of hyaluronic acid molecules was higher on the fibroblast surface in comparison to their extracellular environment. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  11. 75 FR 1274 - Implantation or Injectable Dosage Form New Animal Drugs; Hyaluronate Sodium

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-11

    ... safety warning for use of hyaluronate sodium injectable solution in horses. DATES: This rule is effective... human food safety warning on product labeling. The supplemental NADA is approved as of December 11, 2009...

  12. Biocompatibility of hyaluronic acid hydrogels prepared by porous hyaluronic acid microbeads

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Jin-Tae; Lee, Deuk Yong; Kim, Tae-Hyung; Song, Yo-Seung; Cho, Nam-Ihn

    2014-05-01

    Hyaluronic acid hydrogels (HAHs) were synthesized by immersing HA microbeads crosslinked with divinyl sulfone in a phosphate buffered saline solution to evaluate the biocompatibility of the gels by means of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity ( in vitro chromosome aberration test, reverse mutation assay, and in vivo micronucleus test), skin sensitization, and intradermal reactivity. The HAHs induced no cytotoxicity or genotoxicity. In guinea pigs treated with grafts and prostheses, no animals died and there were no abnormal clinical signs. The sensitization scores were zero in all guinea pigs after 24 h and 48 h challenge, suggesting that the HAHs had no contact allergic sensitization in the guinea pig maximization test. No abnormal signs were found in New Zealand White rabbits during the 72 h observation period after the injection. There was no difference between the HAHs and negative control mean scores because skin reaction such as erythema or oedema was not observed after injection. Experimental results suggest that the HAHs would be suitable for soft tissue augmentation due to the absence of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, skin sensitization, and intradermal reactivity.

  13. Paclitaxel-loaded redox-sensitive nanoparticles based on hyaluronic acid-vitamin E succinate conjugates for improved lung cancer treatment.

    PubMed

    Song, Yu; Cai, Han; Yin, Tingjie; Huo, Meirong; Ma, Ping; Zhou, Jianping; Lai, Wenfang

    2018-01-01

    Lung cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related death worldwide. A redox-sensitive nanocarrier system was developed for tumor-targeted drug delivery and sufficient drug release of the chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel (PTX) for improved lung cancer treatment. The redox-sensitive nanocarrier system constructed from a hyaluronic acid-disulfide-vitamin E succinate (HA-SS-VES, HSV) conjugate was synthesized and PTX was loaded in the delivery system. The physicochemical properties of the HSV nanoparticles were characterized. The redox-sensitivity, tumor-targeting and intracellular drug release capability of the HSV nanoparticles were evaluated. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity of the PTX-loaded HSV nanoparticles was investigated in a CD44 over-expressed A549 tumor model. This HSV conjugate was successfully synthesized and self-assembled to form nanoparticles in aqueous condition with a low critical micelle concentration of 36.3 μg mL -1 . Free PTX was successfully entrapped into the HSV nanoparticles with a high drug loading of 33.5% (w/w) and an entrapment efficiency of 90.6%. Moreover, the redox-sensitivity of the HSV nanoparticles was confirmed by particle size change of the nanoparticles along with in vitro release profiles in different reducing environment. In addition, the HA-receptor mediated endocytosis and the potency of redox-sensitivity for intracellular drug delivery were further verified by flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopic analysis. The antitumor activity results showed that compared to redox-insensitive nanoparticles and Taxol ® , PTX-loaded redox-sensitive nanoparticles exhibited much greater in vitro cytotoxicity and apoptosis-inducing ability against CD44 over-expressed A549 tumor cells. In vivo, the PTX-loaded HSV nanoparticles possessed much higher antitumor efficacy in an A549 mouse xenograft model and demonstrated improved safety profile. In summary, our PTX-loaded redox-sensitive HSV nanoparticles

  14. Demonstrating How School Psychologists Improve Student Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Skalski, Anastasia; Cowan, Katherine C.

    2010-01-01

    Everything in educational policy reform today in some way connects to student outcomes. In an effort to help school psychologists advocate more effectively for their services, NASP created "School Psychologists: Improving Student and School Outcomes" that links NASP policy, practice, and research with student outcomes. This document is…

  15. Oil-free hyaluronic acid matrix for serial femtosecond crystallography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sugahara, Michihiro; Song, Changyong; Suzuki, Mamoru; Masuda, Tetsuya; Inoue, Shigeyuki; Nakane, Takanori; Yumoto, Fumiaki; Nango, Eriko; Tanaka, Rie; Tono, Kensuke; Joti, Yasumasa; Kameshima, Takashi; Hatsui, Takaki; Yabashi, Makina; Nureki, Osamu; Numata, Keiji; Iwata, So

    2016-04-01

    The grease matrix was originally introduced as a microcrystal-carrier for serial femtosecond crystallography and has been expanded to applications for various types of proteins, including membrane proteins. However, the grease-based matrix has limited application for oil-sensitive proteins. Here we introduce a grease-free, water-based hyaluronic acid matrix. Applications for proteinase K and lysozyme proteins were able to produce electron density maps at 2.3-Å resolution.

  16. The potential role of hyaluronic acid in postoperative radiofrequency surgery for chronic inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Casale, Manuele; Manuele, Casale; Ciglia, Giacomo; Giacomo, Ciglia; Frari, Valeria; Valeria, Frari; Incammisa, Antonino; Antonino, Incammisa; Mazzola, Francesco; Francesco, Mazzola; Baptista, Peter; Peter, Baptista; Mladina, Ranko; Ranko, Mladina; Salvinelli, Fabrizio; Fabrizio, Salvinelli

    2013-01-01

    We prospectively evaluated the efficacy of hyaluronic acid (HA) as an adjuvant treatment to hasten the improvement of nasal respiration and to minimize patients' discomfort in the postoperative radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction (RFVTR) of inferior turbinates. We enrolled 57 patients randomly assigned into two groups, HA (22 patients) and saline group (35 patients), which received isotonic saline nasal irrigation. We used the monopolar device somnoplasty for all patients. Visual analogic scale (VAS) and nasal endoscopy were used to assess the outcomes of the treatments during the 1st month of follow-up. The mean VAS score of the HA group at the 1st week was significantly lower than the control group (3.36 ± 1.89 versus 6.95 ± 1.52; p < 0.05). The VAS score remained significantly lower in the HA group also at the 2nd week (3.43 ± 1.27 versus 5.75±1.39; p < 0.05), becoming similar to the control group at the 4th week (p = ns). Since the first visit the HA group also showed significantly lower crust score than the saline group (p < 0.05), and there was no crust found in either group at the last visit. The compliance to treatment was similar in both groups. The results of this prospective study suggest a role of HA as a supportive treatment for faster improvement of nasal respiration, also minimizing patients' discomfort in postoperative nasal surgery, promoting nasal mucosa healing in postoperative RFVTR for inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

  17. Preliminary study of efficacy of hyaluronic acid on caustic esophageal burns in an experimental rat model.

    PubMed

    Cevik, Muazez; Demir, Tuncer; Karadag, Cetin Ali; Ketani, Muzaffer Aydin; Celik, Hakim; Kaplan, Davut Sinan; Boleken, Mehmet Emin

    2013-04-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid on the prevention of esophageal damage and stricture formation after experimental caustic (alkaline) esophageal injury in rats. Twenty-one Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. A caustic esophageal burn was created following the Gehanno model: Group l (n=7) underwent operation, but no injury; Group 2 (n=7) was injured and left untreated; and Group 3 (n=7) was injured and treated with hyaluronic acid, first topically and then orally by gavage (2×0.3mL; 12.5mg/mL for 7days). The caustic esophageal burn was created by instilling 25% NaOH into the distal esophagus. All rats were euthanized on day 22 for evaluation. The efficacy of hyaluronic acid treatment was assessed histopathologically and biochemically via blood determination of the total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and sulfhydryl group (SH) and lipid hydroperoxidase (LOOH) levels. Statistical analyses were performed. Weight gain was significantly lower in Group 2 than in the other two groups (P<0.05). The mean stenosis index, histopathologic damage score, TAS, TOS, OSI, and SH and LOOH levels were higher in Group 2 than in the other two groups. The mean stenosis index, inflammation, TAS, SH and OSI in Group 2 were significantly different than those in the other two groups (P<0.05). Hyaluronic acid treatment is effective in treating damage and preventing strictures after caustic esophageal burn in rats. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Hyaluronic acid: Perspectives in dentistry. A systematic review.

    PubMed

    Casale, Manuele; Moffa, Antonio; Vella, Paola; Sabatino, Lorenzo; Capuano, Francesco; Salvinelli, Beatrice; Lopez, Michele Antonio; Carinci, Francesco; Salvinelli, Fabrizio

    2016-12-01

    To date, topical therapies guarantee a better delivery of high concentrations of pharmacologic agents to the soft periodontal tissue, gingiva, and periodontal ligament as well as to the hard tissue such as alveolar bone and cementum. Topical hyaluronic acid (HA) has recently been recognized as an adjuvant treatment for chronic inflammatory disease in addition to its use to improve healing after dental procedures. The aim of our work was to systematically review the published literature about potential effects of HA as an adjuvant treatment for chronic inflammatory disease, in addition to its use to improve healing after common dental procedures. Relevant published studies were found in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Ovid using a combined keyword search or medical subject headings. At the end of our study selection process, 25 relevant publications were included, three of them regarding gingivitis, 13 of them relating to chronic periodontitis, seven of them relating to dental surgery, including implant and sinus lift procedures, and the remaining three articles describing oral ulcers. Not only does topical administration of HA play a pivotal key role in the postoperative care of patients undergoing dental procedures, but positive results were also generally observed in all patients with chronic inflammatory gingival and periodontal disease and in patients with oral ulcers. © The Author(s) 2016.

  19. Improving mental health outcomes: achieving equity through quality improvement.

    PubMed

    Poots, Alan J; Green, Stuart A; Honeybourne, Emmi; Green, John; Woodcock, Thomas; Barnes, Ruth; Bell, Derek

    2014-04-01

    To investigate equity of patient outcomes in a psychological therapy service, following increased access achieved by a quality improvement (QI) initiative. Retrospective service evaluation of health outcomes; data analysed by ANOVA, chi-squared and Statistical Process Control. A psychological therapy service in Westminster, London, UK. People living in the Borough of Westminster, London, attending the service (from either healthcare professional or self-referral) between February 2009 and May 2012. s) Social marketing interventions were used to increase referrals, including the promotion of the service through local media and through existing social networks. s) (i) Severity of depression on entry using Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ9). (ii) Changes to severity of depression following treatment (ΔPHQ9). (iii) Changes in attainment of a meaningful improvement in condition assessed by a key performance indicator. Patients from areas of high deprivation entered the service with more severe depression (M = 15.47, SD = 6.75), compared with patients from areas of low (M = 13.20, SD = 6.75) and medium (M = 14.44, SD = 6.64) deprivation. Patients in low, medium and high deprivation areas attained similar changes in depression score (ΔPHQ9: M = -6.60, SD = 6.41). Similar proportions of patients achieved the key performance indicator across initiative phase and deprivation categories. QI methods improved access to mental health services; this paper finds no evidence for differences in clinical outcomes in patients, regardless of level of deprivation, interpreted as no evidence of inequity in the service with respect to this outcome.

  20. Conjugation of curcumin onto hyaluronic acid enhances its aqueous solubility and stability.

    PubMed

    Manju, S; Sreenivasan, K

    2011-07-01

    Polymer-drug conjugates have gained much attention largely to circumvent lower drug solubility and to enhance drug stability. Curcumin is widely known for its medicinal properties including its anticancer efficacy. One of the serious drawbacks of curcumin is its poor water solubility which leads to reduced bioavailability. With a view to address these issues, we synthesized hyaluronic acid-curcumin (HA-Cur) conjugate. The drug conjugate was characterized using FT-IR, NMR, Dynamic light scattering and TEM techniques. The conjugates, interestingly found to assembles as micelles in aqueous phase. The formation of micelles seems to improve the stability of the drug in physiological pH. We also assessed cytotoxicity of the conjugate using L929 fibroblast cells and quantified by MTT assay. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Injectable gentamicin-loaded thermo-responsive hyaluronic acid derivative prevents infection in a rabbit model.

    PubMed

    Ter Boo, Gert-Jan A; Arens, Daniel; Metsemakers, Willem-Jan; Zeiter, Stephan; Richards, R Geoff; Grijpma, Dirk W; Eglin, David; Moriarty, T Fintan

    2016-10-01

    Despite the use of systemic antibiotic prophylaxis, the surgical fixation of open fractures with osteosynthesis implants is associated with high infection rates. Antibiotic-loaded biomaterials (ALBs) are increasingly used in implant surgeries across medical specialties to deliver high concentrations of antibiotics to the surgical site and reduce the risk of implant-associated infection. ALBs which are either less or not restricted in terms of spatial distribution and which may be applied throughout complex wounds could offer improved protection against infection in open fracture care. A thermo-responsive hyaluronic acid derivative (hyaluronic acid-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (HApN)) was prepared by a direct amidation reaction between the tetrabutyl ammonium (TBA) salt of hyaluronic acid and amine-terminated poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pN). The degree of grafting, and gelation properties of this gel were characterized, and the composition was loaded with gentamicin. The rheological- and release properties of this gentamicin-loaded HApN composition were tested in vitro and its efficacy in preventing infection was tested in a rabbit model of osteosynthesis contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus. The gentamicin-loaded HApN composition was able to prevent bacterial colonization of the implant site as shown by quantitative bacteriology. This finding was supported by histopathological evaluation of the humeri samples where no bacteria were found in the stained sections. In conclusion, this gentamicin-loaded HApN hydrogel effectively prevents infection in a complex wound, simulating a contaminated fracture treated with plating osteosynthesis. Fracture fixation after trauma is associated with high infection rates. Antibiotic loaded biomaterials (ALBs) can provide high local concentrations without systemic side effects. However, the currently available ALBs have limited accessibility to contaminated tissues in open fractures because of predetermined shape. Thus, a novel

  2. Prognostic indicators of the outcome of arthrocentesis with and without sodium hyaluronate injection for the treatment of disc displacement without reduction: a magnetic resonance imaging study.

    PubMed

    Aktas, I; Yalcin, S; Sencer, S

    2010-11-01

    This study analysed the prognostic factors for successful arthrocentesis with and without sodium hyaluronate (SH) injection for the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) using clinical and radiological results. 29 TMJs in 25 patients with DDwoR were included. Patients were treated with arthrocentesis or arthrocentesis followed by intra-articular (i.a.) injection of SH. Treatment was evaluated for postoperative range of maximum mouth opening and the degree of postoperative pain on a VAS. Prognostic factors analysed were age, sex, duration of locking, trauma history, previous TMJ treatment, depression, bruxism, malocclusion and missing teeth. Degenerative changes were evaluated as probable prognostic factors. After treatment, 24 joints (83%) fulfilled the criteria for success. Duration of locking and present preoperative degenerative changes were the most significant factors for treatment outcome. The results suggest it is sufficient to use only arthrocentesis in patients without preoperative degenerative changes and arthrocentesis with SH in patients with degenerative changes on their preoperative MRIs, but because there were some significant differences between the two groups preventing the authors from comparing them statistically, they cannot come to that conclusion. To clarify the use of SH in such cases, standardized study groups are necessary for future studies. Crown Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Hyaluronic acid: its role in voice.

    PubMed

    Ward, P Daniel; Thibeault, Susan L; Gray, Steven D

    2002-09-01

    The extracellular matrix (ECM), once regarded simply as a structural scaffold, is now recognized as an important modulator of cellular behavior and function. One component that plays a prominent role in this process is hyaluronic acid (HA)--a molecule found in many different tissues. Research into the roles of HA indicates that it plays a key role in tissue viscosity, shock absorption, and space filling. Specifically, research into the role of HA in laryngology indicates that it has profound effects on the structure and viscosity of vocal folds. This article provides an introduction to the structure and biological functions of HA and its importance in voice. In addition, an overview of the pharmaceutical applications of HA is discussed.

  4. Injectable and body temperature sensitive hydrogels based on chitosan and hyaluronic acid for pH sensitive drug release.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Wei; Jin, Xin; Li, Heng; Zhang, Run-Run; Wu, Cheng-Wei

    2018-04-15

    Hydrogels based on chitosan/hyaluronic acid/β-sodium glycerophosphate demonstrate injectability, body temperature sensitivity, pH sensitive drug release and adhesion to cancer cell. The drug (doxorubicin) loaded hydrogel precursor solutions are injectable and turn to hydrogels when the temperature is increased to body temperature. The acidic condition (pH 4.00) can trigger the release of drug and the cancer cell (Hela) can adhere to the surface of the hydrogels, which will be beneficial for tumor site-specific administration of drug. The mechanical strength, the gelation temperature, and the drug release behavior can be tuned by varying hyaluronic acid content. The mechanisms were characterized using dynamic mechanical analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. The carboxyl group in hyaluronic acid can form the hydrogen bondings with the protonated amine in chitosan, which promotes the increase of mechanical strength of the hydrogels and depresses the initial burst release of drug from the hydrogel. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Improving the accuracy of hyaluronic acid molecular weight estimation by conventional size exclusion chromatography.

    PubMed

    Shanmuga Doss, Sreeja; Bhatt, Nirav Pravinbhai; Jayaraman, Guhan

    2017-08-15

    There is an unreasonably high variation in the literature reports on molecular weight of hyaluronic acid (HA) estimated using conventional size exclusion chromatography (SEC). This variation is most likely due to errors in estimation. Working with commercially available HA molecular weight standards, this work examines the extent of error in molecular weight estimation due to two factors: use of non-HA based calibration and concentration of sample injected into the SEC column. We develop a multivariate regression correlation to correct for concentration effect. Our analysis showed that, SEC calibration based on non-HA standards like polyethylene oxide and pullulan led to approximately 2 and 10 times overestimation, respectively, when compared to HA-based calibration. Further, we found that injected sample concentration has an effect on molecular weight estimation. Even at 1g/l injected sample concentration, HA molecular weight standards of 0.7 and 1.64MDa showed appreciable underestimation of 11-24%. The multivariate correlation developed was found to reduce error in estimations at 1g/l to <4%. The correlation was also successfully applied to accurately estimate the molecular weight of HA produced by a recombinant Lactococcus lactis fermentation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Treatment with sodium hyaluronate eye drops in a patient who had early-onset bleb leakage after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C

    PubMed Central

    Sagara, Hideto; Sekiryu, Tetsuju; Noji, Hiroki; Ogasawara, Masashi; Imaizumi, Kimihiro; Yago, Keiko

    2015-01-01

    We present the case of a 47-year-old man who had bilateral proliferative diabetic retinopathy and neovascular glaucoma. Schirmer I test revealed tear secretions of 5 mm and 3 mm in the right and left eyes, respectively. Tear breakup times in the right and left eyes were 7 and 8 seconds, respectively. The ocular surface staining in both eyes was scored as Grade 1 as per the Oxford scheme. Retinal photocoagulation was performed for correction of the proliferative diabetic retinopathy and rubeosis iridis, which resolved with treatment. However, the intraocular pressure in the left eye could not be adequately controlled. Therefore, trabeculectomy with mitomycin C using limbal-based conjunctival flap was performed. Three hours after the surgery, the patient developed a large and diffuse filtering bleb, but no leakage occurred from the conjunctival scar. However, on the first postoperative day, leakage was noted and the conjunctiva was at the leakage point. The leakage resolved transiently, but recurred the next day. Severe keratoconjunctival epithelial failure was detected, and the patient was administrated 0.1% sodium hyaluronate eye drops six times daily. The epithelial failure improved, and many microcysts were detected on the bleb surface where the epithelial failure improved. The leakage resolved 2 days after initiation of the sodium hyaluronate eye drops. The microcysts disappeared and the bleb surface became smooth 1 month later. PMID:26664245

  7. Treatment with sodium hyaluronate eye drops in a patient who had early-onset bleb leakage after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C.

    PubMed

    Sagara, Hideto; Sekiryu, Tetsuju; Noji, Hiroki; Ogasawara, Masashi; Imaizumi, Kimihiro; Yago, Keiko

    2015-01-01

    We present the case of a 47-year-old man who had bilateral proliferative diabetic retinopathy and neovascular glaucoma. Schirmer I test revealed tear secretions of 5 mm and 3 mm in the right and left eyes, respectively. Tear breakup times in the right and left eyes were 7 and 8 seconds, respectively. The ocular surface staining in both eyes was scored as Grade 1 as per the Oxford scheme. Retinal photocoagulation was performed for correction of the proliferative diabetic retinopathy and rubeosis iridis, which resolved with treatment. However, the intraocular pressure in the left eye could not be adequately controlled. Therefore, trabeculectomy with mitomycin C using limbal-based conjunctival flap was performed. Three hours after the surgery, the patient developed a large and diffuse filtering bleb, but no leakage occurred from the conjunctival scar. However, on the first postoperative day, leakage was noted and the conjunctiva was at the leakage point. The leakage resolved transiently, but recurred the next day. Severe keratoconjunctival epithelial failure was detected, and the patient was administrated 0.1% sodium hyaluronate eye drops six times daily. The epithelial failure improved, and many microcysts were detected on the bleb surface where the epithelial failure improved. The leakage resolved 2 days after initiation of the sodium hyaluronate eye drops. The microcysts disappeared and the bleb surface became smooth 1 month later.

  8. Diclofenac in hyaluronic acid gel: an alternative treatment for actinic cheilitis

    PubMed Central

    LIMA, Giana da Silveira; da SILVA, Gabriela Ferrari; GOMES, Ana Paula Neutzling; de ARAÚJO, Lenita Maria Aver; SALUM, Fernanda Gonçalves

    2010-01-01

    Objective Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a precancerous lesion of the lip vermillion caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 3% diclofenac in 2.5% hyaluronic acid gel in the treatment of AC. Methods Thirty-four patients with chronic AC were treated twice a day with topical diclofenac during a period of 30 to 180 days. The individuals were followed up every 15 days by means of clinical examination and digital photographic documentation. Results Of the 27 patients that completed the study, 12 (44%) showed complete remission of the whitish plaques and exfoliative areas, and 15 (56%) had partial remission of the clinical picture of cheilitis. The latter group was submitted to excision of the leukoplakic areas which diagnosis varied from mild to moderate epithelial dysplasia. Conclusion The results suggest a promising role for diclofenac in hyaluronic acid gel in the treatment of AC. This treatment has the advantages of not being invasive and showing few side effects. PMID:21085813

  9. Collagen and hyaluronic acid hydrogel in water-in-oil microemulsion delivery systems.

    PubMed

    Kupper, Sylwia; Kłosowska-Chomiczewska, Ilona; Szumała, Patrycja

    2017-11-01

    The increase in skin related health issues has promoted interest in research on the efficacy of microemulsion in dermal and transdermal delivery of active ingredients. Here, we assessed the water-in-oil microemulsion capacity to incorporate two natural polymers, i.e. collagen and hyaluronic acid with low and high molecular weight. Systems were extensively characterized in terms of conductivity, phase inversion studies, droplet diameter, polydispersity index and rheological properties. The results of this research indicate that the structure and extent of water phase in microemulsions is governed by ratio and amount of surfactant mixture (sorbitan ester derivatives). However, results have also shown that collagen, depending upon the weight of the molecule and its surface activity, influence the droplet size of the microemulsions. While the hyaluronic acid, especially with high molecular weight, due to the water-binding ability and hydrogel formation alters the rheological properties of the microemulsion, thus providing viscous consistency of the formulation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Recent trends in the surgical management of primary vesicoureteral reflux in the era of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Herbst, Katherine W; Corbett, Sean T; Lendvay, Thomas S; Caldamone, Anthony A

    2014-05-01

    Since its inception as a technology in the United States, endoscopic correction of vesicoureteral reflux has become a popular treatment option in children with vesicoureteral reflux with reported wide use. We determined whether the increasing trend in use in the United States after the introduction of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid has been sustained. We abstracted data on pediatric patients treated with ureteral reimplantation or dextranomer/hyaluronic acid intervention for vesicoureteral reflux from 2004 to 2011 from the PHIS (Pediatric Health Information System) database. Patients with coding data indicating diagnoses other than primary vesicoureteral reflux and hospitals reporting less than 80% of ambulatory surgery cases by CPT code were excluded from study. We identified 14,430 patients (17,826 procedures), of whom 49% underwent reimplantation and 51% underwent dextranomer/hyaluronic acid injection. Of the patients 83% were female with a median age at surgery of 4.7 years (IQR 2.5-7.2). Linear regression showed a significant downward trend in the average total number of antireflux operations per institution during the study period. This was attributable to a decrease in the average rate of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid interventions because the average reimplantation rate remained stable during this time. At freestanding pediatric hospitals enrolled in the PHIS database there is a trend toward decreasing intervention for primary vesicoureteral reflux, which appears to be due to decreased use of injection therapy. This may reflect a philosophical change in reflux management by injection therapy. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Disease management improves ESRD outcomes.

    PubMed

    Sands, J J

    2006-02-01

    Renal disease management organizations have reported achieving significant decreases in mortality and hospitalization in conjunction with cost savings, improved patient satisfaction and quality of life. Disease management organizations strive to fill existing gaps in care delivery through the standardized use of risk assessment, predictive modeling, evidence based guidelines and process and outcomes measurement. Patient self-management education and the provision of individual nurse care managers are also key program components. As we more fully measure clinical outcomes and total health-care costs including payments from all insurance and government entities, pharmacy costs and out-of-pocket expenditures, the full implications of disease management can be better defined. The results of this analysis will have a profound influence on United States healthcare policy. At present, current data suggests that the promise of disease management, improved care at reduced cost, can and is being realized in ESRD.

  12. Clinical comparison between two hyaluronic acid-derived fillers in the treatment of nasolabial folds in Chinese subjects: BioHyalux versus Restylane.

    PubMed

    Wu, Yan; Sun, Nan; Xu, Yue; Liu, Huixian; Zhong, Shaomin; Chen, Liyang; Li, Dong

    2016-04-01

    Hyaluronic acid fillers are used to improve the appearance of nasolabial folds (NLF). This study aimed to compare the efficacy, safety, and durability of a new hyaluronic acid gel (BioHyalux) versus Restylane for the correction of NLF. This was a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, controlled, non-inferiority clinical trial involving 88 subjects with moderate to severe NLF. Subjects were randomized to BioHyalux and Restylane on either sides of the NLF. NLF was assessed before and right after injection, and at 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months. Patients were followed up for 13-15 months to evaluate the durability and long-term safety. A clinically meaningful response was predefined as at least one-point improvement on the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale, which is a five-point scale. At 6 months, the response rate of BioHyalux was not inferior to that of Restylane (P < 0.05). At the 13-15 months follow-up, the response rate by investigators was 58.0 % on the BioHyalux side versus 63.8 % on the Restylane side. The response rate by subjects showed similar results, which was 56.5 % on the BioHyalux side versus 60.9 % on the Restylane side at 13-15 months. The subjects' Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) showed that most subjects felt improvements on both sides of NLF (P > 0.05) at all time points. At 6 months, 100 % reported improvements on both side; at 13-15 months, 60 % of subjects reported improvements with BioHyalux versus 64 % with Restylane. Adverse events were transient and predominantly mild or moderate in severity including injection site swelling, pain, itching, bruising, and tenderness. BioHyalux had reliable safety and tolerance, and could be an effective injectable filler for correcting NLF.

  13. A nonfouling voltammetric immunosensor for the carcinoembryonic antigen based on the use of polyaniline nanowires wrapped with hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jiasheng; Hui, Ni

    2018-06-16

    A non-fouling electrochemical immunosensor is described for determination of the tumor biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). It is based on the use of composite wires made by chemical grafting of hyaluronic acid onto polyaniline nanowires. The modified nanowires possess excellent antifouling property both in single protein solutions and in dilute serum samples. The current of immunoelectrode exhibits a linear response in the 0.01 pg mL -1 to 10,000 pg mL -1 CEA concentration range and 0.0075 pg mL -1 detection limit. This work demonstrates that coating an electrode with hyaluronic acid can largely reduce unspecific adsorption of proteins on the electrode surface. Graphical abstract Schematic of a nonfouling electrochemical immunosensor for the carcinoembryonic antigen. It is based on novel composite wires made through the chemical grafting of easily available hyaluronic acid (HA) onto polyaniline (PANI) nanowires. The HA/PANI demonstrated excellent antifouling property both in single protein solutions and human serum samples.

  14. Comparison of the 3 Different Injection Techniques Used in a Randomized Controlled Study Evaluating a Cross-Linked Sodium Hyaluronate Combined With Triamcinolone Hexacetonide (Cingal) for Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Subgroup Analysis.

    PubMed

    McCormack, Robert; Lamontagne, Martin; Vannabouathong, Christopher; Deakon, Robert T; Belzile, Etienne L

    2017-01-01

    A recent trial demonstrated that patients with knee osteoarthritis treated with a sodium hyaluronate and corticosteroid combination (Cingal) experienced greater pain reductions compared with those treated with sodium hyaluronate alone (Monovisc) or saline up to 3 weeks postinjection. In this study, injections were administered by 1 of 3 approaches; however, there is currently no consensus on which, if any, of these techniques produce a more favorable outcome. To provide additional insight on this topic, the results of the previous trial were reanalyzed to determine whether (1) the effect of Cingal was significant within each injection technique and (2) pain reductions were similar between injection techniques across all treatment groups. Greater pain reductions with Cingal up to 3 weeks were only significant in the anteromedial subgroup. Across all therapies, both the anteromedial and anterolateral techniques demonstrated significantly greater pain reductions than the lateral midpatellar approach at 18 and 26 weeks.

  15. Comparison of the 3 Different Injection Techniques Used in a Randomized Controlled Study Evaluating a Cross-Linked Sodium Hyaluronate Combined With Triamcinolone Hexacetonide (Cingal) for Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Subgroup Analysis

    PubMed Central

    McCormack, Robert; Lamontagne, Martin; Vannabouathong, Christopher; Deakon, Robert T; Belzile, Etienne L

    2017-01-01

    A recent trial demonstrated that patients with knee osteoarthritis treated with a sodium hyaluronate and corticosteroid combination (Cingal) experienced greater pain reductions compared with those treated with sodium hyaluronate alone (Monovisc) or saline up to 3 weeks postinjection. In this study, injections were administered by 1 of 3 approaches; however, there is currently no consensus on which, if any, of these techniques produce a more favorable outcome. To provide additional insight on this topic, the results of the previous trial were reanalyzed to determine whether (1) the effect of Cingal was significant within each injection technique and (2) pain reductions were similar between injection techniques across all treatment groups. Greater pain reductions with Cingal up to 3 weeks were only significant in the anteromedial subgroup. Across all therapies, both the anteromedial and anterolateral techniques demonstrated significantly greater pain reductions than the lateral midpatellar approach at 18 and 26 weeks. PMID:28839449

  16. [The usefullness of hyaluronate injection in patients with RA].

    PubMed

    Saito, Seiji

    2003-06-01

    In this seminar, we reported the usefulness of hyaluronate injection in clinical application with patients of RA. In basic research areas, however, the mechanisms responsible for the reported beneficial clinical effects of these treatments remain unclear. There is accumulating experimental evidence to show that the receptors of HA, eg, CD-44, accelerate the inflammation of joint. Administration high molecular weight HA may modulate CD-44 sensitive macromolecular in joint inflammation in part to reduce the activity of proteinases such as MMP-9.

  17. The effect of actinoquinol with hyaluronic acid in eye drops on the optical properties and oxidative damage of the rabbit cornea irradiated with UVB rays.

    PubMed

    Čejka, Čestmír; Luyckx, Jacques; Ardan, Taras; Pláteník, Jan; Širc, Jakub; Michálek, Jiří; Čejková, Jitka

    2010-01-01

    Irradiation of the cornea with UVB rays leads to its oxidative damage, swelling and increased light absorption. We investigated changes in the corneal optics (evaluated by changes of corneal hydration and light absorption) and microscopical disturbances of corneas irradiated with UVB rays as influenced by eye drops containing actinoquinol with hyaluronic acid. Rabbit corneas were irradiated with a daily dose of 0.5 or 1.01 J cm(-2) of UVB rays (312 nm) for 4 days. During irradiation, the eye drops were applied on the right eye and buffered saline (or hyaluronic acid) on the left eye. On day 5 the rabbits were sacrificed and the corneas examined spectrophotometrically for light absorption. The corneal thickness (hydration) was measured using a pachymeter. Corneas of some other rabbits were examined immunohistochemically. After buffered saline treatment UVB rays evoked changes in the corneal optics and induced oxidative damage of the corneas. After actinoquinol-hyaluronic acid application, these changes were diminished. Hyaluronic acid alone was less effective. In conclusion, actinoquinol-hyaluronic acid eye drops decreased changes in corneal optics and suppressed oxidative damage in the UVB-irradiated cornea. However, the effective corneal protection by these eye drops was limited to the lower UVB dose. © 2010 The Authors. Journal Compilation. The American Society of Photobiology.

  18. Febrile urinary tract infections after ureteroneocystostomy and subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid for vesicoureteral reflux--do choice of procedure and success matter?

    PubMed

    Dwyer, Moira E; Husmann, Douglas A; Rathbun, Suzanne R; Weight, Christopher J; Kramer, Stephen A

    2013-01-01

    Despite success rates favoring ureteroneocystostomy over subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid for correction of vesicoureteral reflux, the reported incidence of postoperative febrile urinary tract infection favors the latter. We evaluated contemporary treatment cohorts for an association between correction of vesicoureteral reflux and risk of postoperative febrile urinary tract infection. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 396 consecutive patients who underwent ureteroneocystostomy or subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid between 1994 and 2008. Time to event multivariate analyses included preoperative grade of vesicoureteral reflux and bladder/bowel dysfunction. Of 316 patients meeting study criteria 210 underwent ureteroneocystostomy (356 ureters) and 106 underwent subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (167). Median patient age was 5.7 years (IQR 3.4 to 8.3). Median followup was 28 months (IQR 8 to 61). Ureteral success was significantly greater after ureteroneocystostomy (88%, 314 of 356 cases) vs subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (74%, 124 of 167, p = 0.0001). When controlling for preoperative grade of vesicoureteral reflux and bladder/bowel dysfunction, the risk of persistent reflux was 2.8 times greater after subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (95% CI 1.7-4.7, p <0.0001). The incidence of febrile urinary tract infection did not significantly differ between ureteroneocystostomy (8%, 16 of 210 cases) and subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (4%, 4 of 106; HR 1.96, 95% CI 0.64-5.9, p = 0.24) even when controlling for preoperative grade of vesicoureteral reflux, a predictor of postoperative febrile urinary tract infection on multivariate analysis (HR 2.2 per increase in grade, 95% CI 1.3-3.6, p = 0.0022). Persistent reflux was not a predictor of postoperative febrile urinary tract infection (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.22-2.9, p = 0.75 for ureteroneocystostomy vs HR 1

  19. APRI test and hyaluronic acid as non-invasive diagnostic tools for post HCV liver fibrosis: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    El Serafy, Magdy Amin; Kassem, Abdel Meguid; Omar, Heba; Mahfouz, Mohammad Shaaban; El Said El Raziky, Maissa

    2017-06-01

    Hepatitis C virus (HCV) accounts for a sizable proportion of chronic liver disease cases and represents the most common indication for liver transplantation. Precise diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis stage is considered a funnel-neck in proper management and follow-up of HCV-infected patients. Given the possible complications of liver biopsy, a non-invasive method for assessing hepatic fibrosis is needed. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of APRI and hyaluronic acid as non-invasive diagnostic assessment tools for post HCV liver fibrosis. Systematic literature searching identified studies performed on Egyptian territory to evaluate APRI and hyaluronic acid as non-invasive tests of fibrosis and using liver biopsy as the reference standard. Meta-analysis was performed for areas with an adequate number of publications. Validation of meta- analysis on APRI was done on a subset of 150 treatment-naïve post-hepatitis C patients. Both APRI and hyaluronic acid have superior predictive power for hepatic cirrhosis (F4) than for significant fibrosis (F2-F3). The pooled estimate for sensitivities and specificities of APRI and hyaluronic acid to diagnose F4 were (84% and 82%) and (83% and 89%) respectively. In the subgroup of treatment naïve post-hepatitis C patients, APRI had higher diagnostic performance to diagnose liver cirrhosis with 93.8% sensitivity and 72.4% specificity (AUC; 0.908, 95%CI; 0.851-0.965, p-value; <0.001) compared to its accuracy to diagnose significant hepatic fibrosis with 65.1% sensitivity and 77.8% (AUC; 0.685, 95% CI; 0.59-0.78, p-value; 0.001). APRI score and hyaluronic acid levels are simple and reliable non-invasive markers to detect advanced fibrosis among post-hepatitis C patients. Copyright © 2017 Pan-Arab Association of Gastroenterology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Hyaluronic Acid Surface Modified Liposomes Prepared via Orthogonal Aminoxy Coupling: Synthesis of Nontoxic Aminoxylipids Based on Symmetrically α-Branched Fatty Acids, Preparation of Liposomes by Microfluidic Mixing, and Targeting to Cancer Cells Expressing CD44.

    PubMed

    Bartheldyová, Eliška; Effenberg, Roman; Mašek, Josef; Procházka, Lubomír; Knötigová, Pavlína Turánek; Kulich, Pavel; Hubatka, František; Velínská, Kamila; Zelníčková, Jaroslava; Zouharová, Darina; Fojtíková, Martina; Hrebík, Dominik; Plevka, Pavel; Mikulík, Robert; Miller, Andrew D; Macaulay, Stuart; Zyka, Daniel; Drož, Ladislav; Raška, Milan; Ledvina, Miroslav; Turánek, Jaroslav

    2018-06-25

    New synthetic aminoxy lipids are designed and synthesized as building blocks for the formulation of functionalized nanoliposomes by microfluidization using a NanoAssemblr. Orthogonal binding of hyaluronic acid onto the outer surface of functionalized nanoliposomes via aminoxy coupling ( N-oxy ligation) is achieved at hemiacetal function of hyaluronic acid and the structure of hyaluronic acid-liposomes is visualized by transmission electron microscopy and cryotransmission electron microscopy. Observed structures are in a good correlation with data obtained by dynamic light scattering (size and ζ-potential). In vitro experiments on cell lines expressing CD44 receptors demonstrate selective internalization of fluorochrome-labeled hyaluronic acid-liposomes, while cells with down regulated CD44 receptor levels exhibit very low internalization of hyaluronic acid-liposomes. A method based on microfluidization mixing was developed for preparation of monodispersive unilamellar liposomes containing aminoxy lipids and orthogonal binding of hyaluronic acid onto the liposomal surface was demonstrated. These hyaluronic acid-liposomes represent a potentially new drug delivery platform for CD44-targeted anticancer drugs as well as for immunotherapeutics and vaccines.

  1. Engineering S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus towards concurrent production of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin biopolymers of biomedical interest.

    PubMed

    Cimini, Donatella; Iacono, Ileana Dello; Carlino, Elisabetta; Finamore, Rosario; Restaino, Odile F; Diana, Paola; Bedini, Emiliano; Schiraldi, Chiara

    2017-12-01

    Glycosaminoglycans, such as hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulphate, are not only more and more required as main ingredients in cosmeceutical and nutraceutical preparations, but also as active principles in medical devices and pharmaceutical products. However, while biotechnological production of hyaluronic acid is industrially established through fermentation of Streptococcus spp. and recently Bacillus subtilis, biotechnological chondroitin is not yet on the market. A non-hemolytic and hyaluronidase negative S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus mutant strain was engineered in this work by the addition of two E. coli K4 genes, namely kfoA and kfoC, involved in the biosynthesis of chondroitin-like polysaccharide. Chondroitin is the precursor of chondroitin sulphate, a nutraceutical present on the market as anti-arthritic drug, that is lately being studied for its intrinsic bioactivity. In small scale bioreactor batch experiments the production of about 1.46 ± 0.38 g/L hyaluronic acid and 300 ± 28 mg/L of chondroitin with an average molecular weight of 1750 and 25 kDa, respectively, was demonstrated, providing an approach to the concurrent production of both biopolymers in a single fermentation.

  2. Effect of Hyaluronic Acid Incorporation Method on the Stability and Biological Properties of Polyurethane-Hyaluronic Acid Biomaterials

    PubMed Central

    Ruiz, Amaliris; Rathnam, Kashmila R.; Masters, Kristyn S.

    2014-01-01

    The high failure rate of small diameter vascular grafts continues to drive the development of new materials and modification strategies that address this clinical problem, with biomolecule incorporation typically achieved via surface-based modification of various biomaterials. In this work, we examined whether the method of biomolecule incorporation (i.e., bulk vs. surface modification) into a polyurethane (PU) polymer impacted biomaterial performance in the context of vascular applications. Specifically, hyaluronic acid (HA) was incorporated into a poly(ether urethane) via bulk copolymerization or covalent surface tethering, and the resulting PU-HA materials characterized with respect to both physical and biological properties. Modification of PU with HA by either surface or bulk methods yielded materials that, when tested under static conditions, possessed no significant differences in their ability to resist protein adsorption, platelet adhesion, and bacterial adhesion, while supporting endothelial cell culture. However, only bulk-modified PU-HA materials were able to fully retain these characteristics following material exposure to flow, demonstrating a superior ability to retain the incorporated HA and minimize enzymatic degradation, protein adsorption, platelet adhesion, and bacterial adhesion. Thus, despite bulk methods rarely being implemented in the context of biomolecule attachment, these results demonstrate improved performance of PU-HA upon bulk, rather than surface, incorporation of HA. Although explored only in the context of PU-HA, the findings revealed by these experiments have broader implications for the design and evaluation of vascular graft modification strategies. PMID:24276670

  3. Hyaluronic Acid and Its Composites as a Local Antimicrobial/Antiadhesive Barrier

    PubMed Central

    Romanò, C.L.; De Vecchi, E.; Bortolin, M.; Morelli, I.; Drago, L.

    2017-01-01

    Living in biofilms is probably the most common condition for bacteria and fungi and biofilm-related infections account for the majority of bacterial infectious diseases worldwide. Among others biofilm-related infections, those associated with implanted biomaterials have an enormous and still largely underestimated impact in orthopaedics and trauma, cardio-surgery and several other surgical disciplines. Given the limited efficacy of existing antibiotics in the prevention and treatment of bacterial biofilms, new strategies are needed to protect implants and host tissues, overcoming the striking ability of the microorganisms to adhere on different surfaces and to immediately protect themselves by forming the biofilm matrix. Adhesion is a necessary first step in microbial colonization and pathogenesis and provides a potential target for new preventive and treatment approach. Among various polymers, tested as antibacterial coatings, hyaluronic acid and some of its composites do offer a well-established long-term safety profile and a proven ability to reduce bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. Aim of the present review is to summarize the available evidence concerning the antiadhesion/antibiofilm activity of hyaluronic acid and some of its derivatives to reduce/prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation in various experimental and clinical settings. PMID:28529865

  4. Using AMLO to Improve the Quality of Teacher Education Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Al-Shammari, Zaid

    2012-01-01

    This study aims to find ways to improve learning outcomes in teacher education courses by using an Analysis Model for Learning Outcomes (AMLO). It addresses the improvement of the quality of teacher education by analyzing learning outcomes and implementing curriculum modifications related to specific learning objectives and their effects on…

  5. Louisiana Birth Outcomes Initiative: improving birth outcomes with interventions before, during, and after pregnancy.

    PubMed

    Gee, Rebekah E; Johnson, Kay A

    2012-01-01

    The costs of poor birth outcomes to the United States in both human and fiscal terms are large and a continuing concern. Louisiana has among the worst birth outcomes in our nation, which include preterm and low birth weight births, and maternal and infant mortality. In response to these poor birth outcomes, the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals is implementing a statewide, multi-faceted Birth Outcomes Initiative at the level of the secretary. The Birth Outcomes Initiative aims to adopt evidence-based and best practices along the continuum of care for women and infants. Of particular importance is ending all non-medically indicated deliveries prior to 39 weeks, administration of the hormone 17-hydroxyprogesterone to eligible women for prematurity prevention, optimal behavioral health counseling and referral for reproductive aged women, and ensuring optimal health for women between pregnancies. Opportunities exist to improve outcomes for primary care and obstetrical providers. Louisiana is the first state to aim at improving birth outcomes with interventions before, during, and after pregnancy.

  6. Randomized Multilevel Intervention to Improve Outcomes of Residents in Nursing Homes in Need of Improvement

    PubMed Central

    Rantz, Marilyn J.; Nahm, Helen E.; Zwygart-Stauffacher, Mary; Hicks, Lanis; Mehr, David; Flesner, Marcia; Petroski, Gregory F.; Madsen, Richard W.; Scott-Cawiezell, Jill

    2012-01-01

    Purpose A comprehensive multilevel intervention was tested to build organizational capacity to create and sustain improvement in quality of care and subsequently improve resident outcomes in nursing homes in need of improvement. Intervention facilities (n=29) received a two-year multilevel intervention with monthly on-site consultation from expert nurses with graduate education in gerontological nursing. Attention control facilities (n=29) that also needed to improve resident outcomes received monthly information about aging and physical assessment of elders. Design and Methods Randomized clinical trial of nursing homes in need of improving resident outcomes of bladder and bowel incontinence, weight loss, pressure ulcers, and decline in activities of daily living (ADL). It was hypothesized that following the intervention, experimental facilities would have better resident outcomes, higher quality of care, higher staff retention, more organizational attributes of improved working conditions than control facilities, similar staffing and staff mix, and lower total and direct care costs. Results The intervention did improve quality of care (p=0.02); there were improvements in pressure ulcers (p=0.05), weight loss (p=0.05). Staff retention, organizational working conditions, staffing, and staff mix and most costs were not affected by the intervention. Leadership turnover was surprisingly excessive in both intervention and control groups. Implications Some facilities that are in need of improving quality of care and resident outcomes are able to build the organizational capacity to improve while not increasing staffing or costs of care. Improvement requires continuous supportive consultation and leadership willing to involve staff and work together to build the systematic improvements in care delivery needed. PMID:21816681

  7. A randomized controlled experimental study of the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma and hyaluronic acid for the prevention of adhesion formation in a rat uterine horn model.

    PubMed

    Oz, Murat; Cetinkaya, Nilufer; Bas, Sevda; Korkmaz, Elmas; Ozgu, Emre; Terzioglu, Gokay Serdar; Buyukkagnici, Umran; Akbay, Serap; Caydere, Muzaffer; Gungor, Tayfun

    2016-09-01

    Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been known to possess an efficacy in tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to determine the role of PRP on post-operative adhesion formation in an experimental rat study. Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into control, hyaluronic acid, and PRP treatment groups and operated on for uterine horn adhesion modeling. Blood was collected to produce a PRP with platelet counts of 688 × 10(3)/μL, and 1 ml of either hyaluronic acid gel or PRP was administered over the standard lesions, while the control group received no medication. The evaluation of post-operative adhesions was done on the 30th post-operative day. The location, extent, type, and tenacity of adhesions as well as total adhesion scores, tissue inflammation, fibrosis and transforming growth factor-1beta (TGF-1β) expressions were evaluated. The total adhesion score was significantly lower in the PRP group (3.2 ± 1.5) compared with the hyaluronic acid (5.0 ± 1.3) and control (8.1 ± 1.7) groups. The extent of the adhesions was significantly lower in the PRP group. There was no significant difference in the type and tenacity of adhesions between the hyaluronic acid and the PRP group. The level of inflammation was significantly higher in the control group than the others, while there was no difference between the PRP and hyaluronic acid groups. TGF-1β expression was significantly lesser in the PRP group than the control and hyaluronic acid groups. PRP is more effective than hyaluronic acid treatment in preventing post-operative adhesion formation in an experimental rat uterine horn adhesion model.

  8. Boronic acid-tethered amphiphilic hyaluronic acid derivative-based nanoassemblies for tumor targeting and penetration.

    PubMed

    Jeong, Jae Young; Hong, Eun-Hye; Lee, Song Yi; Lee, Jae-Young; Song, Jae-Hyoung; Ko, Seung-Hak; Shim, Jae-Seong; Choe, Sunghwa; Kim, Dae-Duk; Ko, Hyun-Jeong; Cho, Hyun-Jong

    2017-04-15

    (3-Aminomethylphenyl)boronic acid (AMPB)-installed hyaluronic acid-ceramide (HACE)-based nanoparticles (NPs), including manassantin B (MB), were fabricated for tumor-targeted delivery. The amine group of AMPB was conjugated to the carboxylic acid group of hyaluronic acid (HA) via amide bond formation, and synthesis was confirmed by spectroscopic methods. HACE-AMPB/MB NPs with a 239-nm mean diameter, narrow size distribution, negative zeta potential, and >90% drug encapsulation efficiency were fabricated. Exposed AMPB in the outer surface of HACE-AMPB NPs (in the aqueous environment) may react with sialic acid of cancer cells. The improved cellular accumulation efficiency, in vitro antitumor efficacy, and tumor penetration efficiency of HACE-AMPB/MB NPs, compared with HACE/MB NPs, in MDA-MB-231 cells (CD44 receptor-positive human breast adenocarcinoma cells) may be based on the CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis and phenylboronic acid-sialic acid interaction. Enhanced in vivo tumor targetability, infiltration efficiency, and antitumor efficacies of HACE-AMPB NPs, compared with HACE NPs, were observed in a MDA-MB-231 tumor-xenografted mouse model. In addition to passive tumor targeting (based on an enhanced permeability and retention effect) and active tumor targeting (interaction between HA and CD44 receptor), the phenylboronic acid-sialic acid interaction can play important roles in augmented tumor targeting and penetration of HACE-AMPB NPs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: (3-Aminomethylphenyl)boronic acid (AMPB)-tethered hyaluronic acid-ceramide (HACE)-based nanoparticles (NPs), including manassantin B (MB), were fabricated and their tumor targeting and penetration efficiencies were assessed in MDA-MB-231 (CD44 receptor-positive human adenocarcinoma) tumor models. MB, which exhibited antitumor efficacies via the inhibition of angiogenesis and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1, was entrapped in HACE-AMPB NPs in this study. Phenylboronic acid located in the outer surface

  9. Single-Molecule Studies of Hyaluronic Acid Conformation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Innes-Gold, Sarah; Berezney, John; Saleh, Omar

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a charged linear polysaccharide abundant in extracellular spaces. Its solution conformation and mechanical properties help define the environment outside of cells, play key roles in cell motility and adhesion processes, and are of interest for the development of HA biomaterials. Intra-chain hydrogen bonds and electrostatic repulsion contribute to HAs physical structure, but the nature of this structure, as well as its dependence on solution electrostatics, are not well-understood. To address this problem, we have investigated HA conformation and mechanical properties under a range of solution conditions systematically designed to affect charge screening or hydrogen bonding. We used magnetic tweezers to apply biological-scale stretching forces to individual HA chains under varying solution conditions.

  10. Budesonide nanocrystal-loaded hyaluronic acid microparticles for inhalation: In vitro and in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Liu, Tingting; Han, Meihua; Tian, Fang; Cun, Dongmei; Rantanen, Jukka; Yang, Mingshi

    2018-02-01

    Most inhaled pharmaceutical formulations on the market are intended to exert immediate pharmacological action, even although inhaled sustained-release formulations can be needed to reduce the frequency of dosing. The purpose of this study was to investigate the pulmonary retention and pharmacokinetics of a poorly water-soluble drug after loading its nanocrystal form into inhalable mucoadhesive microparticles composed of hyaluronic acid. It was intended to prolong the pharmacological effect without compromising the dissolution rate of the poorly water-soluble drug. In this study, budesonide, a corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drug, was used as a model poorly water-soluble drug. Submicron budesonide particles were prepared by wet ball milling, and subsequently loaded into hyaluronic acid microparticles by the spray drying process. The ball-milled budesonide particles and the spray-dried microparticles were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), laser diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Selected formulations were evaluated in terms of their dissolution/release rate, aerosol performance, muco-adhesion and pharmacokinetics in rats. As shown by XRD and DSC analysis, the nanonized budesonide particles in this study were mainly in crystalline form. The dissolution/release study showed that the in vitro release of budesonide from the microparticles was not significantly sustained compared with the dissolution rate of budesonide nanocrystals (BUD-NC). However, the budesonide in the microparticles exhibited prolonged retention on the surface of porcine tracheal tube owing to the muco-adhesion ability of hyaluronic acid. After intratracheal administration to rats, the BUD-NC exhibited a similar pharmacokinetic profile to that of budesonide solution via i.v. injection. In contrast, budesonide loaded in the mucoadhesive microparticles exhibited a significantly prolonged T max

  11. Role of Video Games in Improving Health-Related Outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Primack, Brian A.; Carroll, Mary V.; McNamara, Megan; Klem, Mary Lou; King, Brandy; Rich, Michael O.; Chan, Chun W.; Nayak, Smita

    2012-01-01

    Context Video games represent a multibillion-dollar industry in the U.S. Although video gaming has been associated with many negative health consequences, it may also be useful for therapeutic purposes. The goal of this study was to determine whether video games may be useful in improving health outcomes. Evidence acquisition Literature searches were performed in February 2010 in six databases: the Center on Media and Child Health Database of Research, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Reference lists were hand-searched to identify additional studies. Only RCTs that tested the effect of video games on a positive, clinically relevant health consequence were included. Study selection criteria were strictly defined and applied by two researchers working independently. Study background information (e.g., location, funding source), sample data (e.g., number of study participants, demographics), intervention and control details, outcomes data, and quality measures were abstracted independently by two researchers. Evidence synthesis Of 1452 articles retrieved using the current search strategy, 38 met all criteria for inclusion. Eligible studies used video games to provide physical therapy, psychological therapy, improved disease self-management, health education, distraction from discomfort, increased physical activity, and skills training for clinicians. Among the 38 studies, a total of 195 health outcomes were examined. Video games improved 69% of psychological therapy outcomes, 59% of physical therapy outcomes, 50% of physical activity outcomes, 46% of clinician skills outcomes, 42% of health education outcomes, 42% of pain distraction outcomes, and 37% of disease self-management outcomes. Study quality was generally poor; for example, two thirds (66%) of studies had follow-up periods of <12 weeks, and only 11% of studies blinded researchers. Conclusions There is potential promise for video games to improve

  12. Improving functional outcomes with recreational therapy.

    PubMed

    Sorensen, B; Luken, K

    1999-01-01

    If you suddenly were incapacitated, wouldn't you expect your health care team to use interventions that were cost-effective, relevant to your recovery goals, and conducive to improved functional outcomes? Recreational therapy (RT), also known as therapeutic recreation, is a value-added treatment mode that contributes to improved functioning, independence, and recovery. This article provides information about RT, its accessibility, and its benefits.

  13. New composite materials prepared by calcium phosphate precipitation in chitosan/collagen/hyaluronic acid sponge cross-linked by EDC/NHS.

    PubMed

    Kaczmarek, B; Sionkowska, A; Kozlowska, J; Osyczka, A M

    2018-02-01

    Nowadays, fabrication of composite materials based on biopolymers is a rising field due to potential for bone repair and tissue engineering application. Blending of different biopolymers and incorporation of inorganic particles in the blend can lead to new materials with improved physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. In this work 3D porous structures called scaffolds based on chitosan, collagen and hyaluronic acid were obtained through the lyophilization process. Scaffolds were cross-linked by EDC/NHS. Infrared spectra for the materials were made, the percentage of swelling, scaffolds porosity and density, mechanical parameters, thermal stability were studied. Moreover, the scaffolds were used as matrixes for the calcium phosphate in situ precipitation. SEM images were taken and EDX analysis was carried out for calcium and phosphorous content determination in the scaffold. In addition, the adhesion and proliferation of human osteosarcoma SaOS-2 cells was examined on obtained scaffolds. The results showed that the properties of 3D composites cross-linked by EDC/NHS were altered after the addition of 1, 2 and 5% hyaluronic acid. Mechanical parameters, thermal stability and porosity of scaffolds were improved. Moreover, calcium and phosphorous were found in each kind of scaffold. SEM images showed that the precipitation was homogeneously carried in the whole volume of samples. Attachment of SaOS-2 cells to all modified materials was better compared to unmodified control and proliferation of these cells was markedly increased on scaffolds with precipitated calcium phosphate. Obtained materials can provide the support useful in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Topical Hyaluronic Acid vs. Standard of Care for the Prevention of Radiation Dermatitis After Adjuvant Radiotherapy for Breast Cancer: Single-Blind Randomized Phase III Clinical Trial

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pinnix, Chelsea; Perkins, George H.; Strom, Eric A.

    2012-07-15

    Purpose: To determine the efficacy of an emulsion containing hyaluronic acid to reduce the development of {>=}Grade 2 radiation dermatitis after adjuvant breast radiation compared with best supportive care. Methods and Materials: Women with breast cancer who had undergone lumpectomy and were to receive whole-breast radiotherapy to 50 Gy with a 10- to 16-Gy surgical bed boost were enrolled in a prospective randomized trial to compare the effectiveness of a hyaluronic acid-based gel (RadiaPlex) and a petrolatum-based gel (Aquaphor) for preventing the development of dermatitis. Each patient was randomly assigned to use hyaluronic acid gel on the medial half ormore » the lateral half of the irradiated breast and to use the control gel on the other half. Dermatitis was graded weekly according to the Common Terminology Criteria v3.0 by the treating physician, who was blinded as to which gel was used on which area of the breast. The primary endpoint was development of {>=}Grade 2 dermatitis. Results: The study closed early on the basis of a recommendation from the Data and Safety Monitoring Board after 74 of the planned 92 patients were enrolled. Breast skin treated with the hyaluronic acid gel developed a significantly higher rate of {>=}Grade 2 dermatitis than did skin treated with petrolatum gel: 61.5% (40/65) vs. 47.7% (31/65) (p = 0.027). Only 1ne patient developed Grade 3 dermatitis using either gel. A higher proportion of patients had worse dermatitis in the breast segment treated with hyaluronic acid gel than in that treated with petrolatum gel at the end of radiotherapy (42% vs. 14%, p = 0.003). Conclusion: We found no benefit from the use of a topical hyaluronic acid-based gel for reducing the development of {>=}Grade 2 dermatitis after adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer. Additional studies are needed to determine the efficacy of hyaluronic acid-based gel in controlling radiation dermatitis symptoms after they develop.« less

  15. Topical hyaluronic acid vs. standard of care for the prevention of radiation dermatitis after adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer: single-blind randomized phase III clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Pinnix, Chelsea; Perkins, George H; Strom, Eric A; Tereffe, Welela; Woodward, Wendy; Oh, Julia L; Arriaga, Lisa; Munsell, Mark F; Kelly, Patrick; Hoffman, Karen E; Smith, Benjamin D; Buchholz, Thomas A; Yu, T Kuan

    2012-07-15

    To determine the efficacy of an emulsion containing hyaluronic acid to reduce the development of ≥ Grade 2 radiation dermatitis after adjuvant breast radiation compared with best supportive care. Women with breast cancer who had undergone lumpectomy and were to receive whole-breast radiotherapy to 50 Gy with a 10- to 16-Gy surgical bed boost were enrolled in a prospective randomized trial to compare the effectiveness of a hyaluronic acid-based gel (RadiaPlex) and a petrolatum-based gel (Aquaphor) for preventing the development of dermatitis. Each patient was randomly assigned to use hyaluronic acid gel on the medial half or the lateral half of the irradiated breast and to use the control gel on the other half. Dermatitis was graded weekly according to the Common Terminology Criteria v3.0 by the treating physician, who was blinded as to which gel was used on which area of the breast. The primary endpoint was development of ≥ Grade 2 dermatitis. The study closed early on the basis of a recommendation from the Data and Safety Monitoring Board after 74 of the planned 92 patients were enrolled. Breast skin treated with the hyaluronic acid gel developed a significantly higher rate of ≥ Grade 2 dermatitis than did skin treated with petrolatum gel: 61.5% (40/65) vs. 47.7% (31/65) (p = 0.027). Only one patient developed Grade 3 dermatitis using either gel. A higher proportion of patients had worse dermatitis in the breast segment treated with hyaluronic acid gel than in that treated with petrolatum gel at the end of radiotherapy (42% vs. 14%, p = 0.003). We found no benefit from the use of a topical hyaluronic acid-based gel for reducing the development of ≥ Grade 2 dermatitis after adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer. Additional studies are needed to determine the efficacy of hyaluronic acid-based gel in controlling radiation dermatitis symptoms after they develop. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Topical Hyaluronic acid vs. Standard of Care for the Prevention of Radiation Dermatitis after Adjuvant Radiotherapy for Breast Cancer: Single-Blind Randomized Phase III Clinical Trial

    PubMed Central

    Pinnix, Chelsea; Perkins, George H.; Strom, Eric A.; Tereffe, Welela; Woodward, Wendy; Oh, Julia L.; Arriaga, Lisa; Munsell, Mark F.; Kelly, Patrick; Hoffman, Karen E.; Smith, Benjamin D.; Buchholz, Thomas A.; Yu, T. Kuan

    2014-01-01

    Purpose To determine the efficacy of an emulsion containing hyaluronic acid to reduce the development of ≥ grade 2 radiation dermatitis after adjuvant breast radiation (RT) compared with best supportive care. Materials and Methods Women with breast cancer who had undergone lumpectomy and were to receive whole-breast RT to 50 Gy with a 10- to 16-Gy surgical bed boost were enrolled in a prospective randomized trial to compare the effectiveness of a hyaluronic acid-based gel (RadiaPlex) and a petrolatum-based gel (Aquaphor) for preventing the development of dermatitis. Each patient was randomly assigned to use hyaluronic acid gel, on the medial half or the lateral half of the irradiated breast, and the control gel to the other half. Dermatitis was graded weekly according to the Common Terminology Criteria v3.0 by the treating physician, who was blinded as to which gel was used on which area of the breast. The primary endpoint was development of ≥grade 2 dermatitis. Results The study closed early based on a recommendation from the Data and Safety Monitoring Board after 74 of the planned 92 patients were enrolled. Breast skin treated with the hyaluronic acid gel developed significantly higher rate of ≥grade 2 dermatitis than did skin treated with petrolatum gel (61.5% [40/65] vs. 47.7% [31/65], P = 0.027). Only one patient developed grade 3 dermatitis using either gel. A higher proportion of patients had worse dermatitis in the breast segment treated with hyaluronic acid gel than petrolatum gel at the end of RT (42% vs. 14%, P = 0.003). Conclusion We found no benefit from use of a topical hyaluronic acid-based gel for reducing the development of grade ≥2 dermatitis after adjuvant RT for breast cancer. Additional studies are needed to determine the efficacy of hyaluronic acid-based gel in controlling radiation dermatitis symptoms after they develop. PMID:22172912

  17. Impact of Clinical Practice Guidelines on Use of Intra-Articular Hyaluronic Acid and Corticosteroid Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Bedard, Nicholas A; DeMik, David E; Glass, Natalie A; Burnett, Robert A; Bozic, Kevin J; Callaghan, John J

    2018-05-16

    The efficacy of corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injections for knee osteoarthritis has been questioned. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) clinical practice guidelines on the use of these injections in the United States and determine if utilization differed by provider specialty. Patients with knee osteoarthritis were identified within the Humana database from 2007 to 2015, and the percentage of patients receiving a knee injection relative to the number of patients having an encounter for knee osteoarthritis was calculated and was trended for the study period. The impact of each edition of the AAOS clinical practice guidelines on injection use was evaluated with segmented regression analysis. Injection trends were also analyzed relative to the specialty of the provider performing the injection. Of 1,065,175 patients with knee osteoarthritis, 405,101 (38.0%) received a corticosteroid injection and 137,005 (12.9%) received a hyaluronic acid injection. The rate of increase in hyaluronic acid use, per 100 patients with knee osteoarthritis, decreased from 0.15 to 0.07 injection per quarter year (p = 0.02) after the first clinical practice guideline, and the increase changed to a decrease at a rate of -0.12 injection per quarter (p < 0.001) after the second clinical practice guideline. After the first clinical practice guideline, the rate of increase in utilization of corticosteroids, per 100 patients with knee osteoarthritis, significantly lessened to 0.12 injection per quarter (p < 0.001), and after the second clinical practice guideline, corticosteroid injection use plateaued (p = 0.72). The trend in use of hyaluronic acid injections by orthopaedic surgeons and pain specialists decreased with time following the second-edition clinical practice guideline but did not change for primary care physicians or nonoperative musculoskeletal providers. Subtle but significant changes in hyaluronic acid

  18. Utilizing Quality Improvement Methods to Improve Patient Care Outcomes in a Pediatric Residency Program

    PubMed Central

    Akins, Ralitsa B.; Handal, Gilbert A.

    2009-01-01

    Objective Although there is an expectation for outcomes-oriented training in residency programs, the reality is that few guidelines and examples exist as to how to provide this type of education and training. We aimed to improve patient care outcomes in our pediatric residency program by using quality improvement (QI) methods, tools, and approaches. Methods A series of QI projects were implemented over a 3-year period in a pediatric residency program to improve patient care outcomes and teach the residents how to use QI methods, tools, and approaches. Residents experienced practice-based learning and systems-based assessment through group projects and review of their own patient outcomes. Resident QI experiences were reviewed quarterly by the program director and were a mandatory part of resident training portfolios. Results Using QI methodology, we were able to improve management of children with obesity, to achieve high compliance with the national patient safety goals, improve the pediatric hotline service, and implement better patient flow in resident continuity clinic. Conclusion Based on our experiences, we conclude that to successfully implement QI projects in residency programs, QI techniques must be formally taught, the opportunities for resident participation must be multiple and diverse, and QI outcomes should be incorporated in resident training and assessment so that they experience the benefits of the QI intervention. The lessons learned from our experiences, as well as the projects we describe, can be easily deployed and implemented in other residency programs. PMID:21975995

  19. Is there a place for intra-articular hyaluronate in osteoarthritis of the knee?

    PubMed

    Kirwan, J

    2001-06-01

    Viscosupplementation refers to the intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) as a hyaluronate to relieve pain and improve function, usually in patients with knee OA. HA is the major constituent of a 1-2-micron layer on the surface of articular cartilage as well as a major constituent of synovial fluid (SF). Solutions of HA can act as lubricants when movements are slow and as shock absorbers when movements are fast. In arthritis, the molecular weight of HA is reduced, and so are its properties. Viscosupplementation has been advocated as a way of reversing this, but intra-articular HA has other properties, such as an anti-inflammatory effect, which may also contribute to any therapeutic effect. There is a large placebo effect from intra-articular injections, and the benefits of intra-articular glucocorticoids may be only slightly better than this effect. In only one randomised, placebo-controlled trial was the difference in response significant. Studies of intra-articular HA also show a marked placebo response (where it has been measured), but some have suggested a measurable benefit, which may be more prolonged that that of glucocorticoids. There is only a single study in which the effects of intra-articular therapy with placebo, glucocorticoids and viscosupplementation can be compared. Here, HA may have had a slightly longer period of benefit than triamcinolone hexacetonide or placebo. The very large placebo response after aspiration of the knee may seriously mislead those engaged in uncontrolled therapeutic evaluation of intra-articular therapy. Current evidence suggests that viscosupplements probably provide a similar level of pain relief to glucocorticoids and do so for several months, but the onset is slower, and there is the potential for local adverse reactions.

  20. Interdisciplinary ICU Cardiac Arrest Debriefing Improves Survival Outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Wolfe, Heather; Zebuhr, Carleen; Topjian, Alexis A.; Nishisaki, Akira; Niles, Dana E.; Meaney, Peter A.; Boyle, Lori; Giordano, Rita T.; Davis, Daniela; Priestley, Margaret; Apkon, Michael; Berg, Robert A.; Nadkarni, Vinay M.; Sutton, Robert M.

    2014-01-01

    Objective In-hospital cardiac arrest is an important public health problem. High-quality resuscitation improves survival but is difficult to achieve. Our objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, interdisciplinary, postevent quantitative debriefing program to improve survival outcomes after in-hospital pediatric chest compression events. Design, Setting, and Patients Single-center prospective interventional study of children who received chest compressions between December 2008 and June 2012 in the ICU. Interventions Structured, quantitative, audiovisual, interdisciplinary debriefing of chest compression events with front-line providers. Measurements and Main Results Primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes included survival of event (return of spontaneous circulation for ≥ 20 min) and favorable neurologic outcome. Primary resuscitation quality outcome was a composite variable, termed “excellent cardiopulmonary resuscitation,” prospectively defined as a chest compression depth ≥ 38 mm, rate ≥ 100/min, ≤ 10% of chest compressions with leaning, and a chest compression fraction > 90% during a given 30-second epoch. Quantitative data were available only for patients who are 8 years old or older. There were 119 chest compression events (60 control and 59 interventional). The intervention was associated with a trend toward improved survival to hospital discharge on both univariate analysis (52% vs 33%, p = 0.054) and after controlling for confounders (adjusted odds ratio, 2.5; 95% CI, 0.91–6.8; p = 0.075), and it significantly increased survival with favorable neurologic outcome on both univariate (50% vs 29%, p = 0.036) and multivariable analyses (adjusted odds ratio, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.01–7.5; p = 0.047). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation epochs for patients who are 8 years old or older during the debriefing period were 5.6 times more likely to meet targets of excellent cardiopulmonary resuscitation (95% CI, 2.9–10

  1. Effect of concentration of hyaluronic acid and NaCl on corrosion behavior of 316L austenitic stainless steel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bansod, Ankur V.; Khobragade, Nilay N.; Giradkar, Karansagar V.; Patil, Awanikumar P.

    2017-11-01

    Due to low cost and easily available material, 316L stainless steel (SS) is used for biomedical implants. The electrochemical corrosion behavior of 316L (SS) was studied as a function of the concentration of simulated biological fluid (hyaluronic acid), the influence of Cl- and the combined effect of NaCl and hyaluronic acid (HA). For the electrochemical tests, potentiodynamic polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were undertaken. With the increase in HA concentration, corrosion rate increases. Whereas, with the addition of NaCl to HA the solution, the corrosion resistance of the sample was enhanced. Also, in pure NaCl solution, the corrosion current density (i corr) increased as compared to bare HA and HA  +  NaCl. This is due to the adhesion property of the HA on the sample surface. EIS result agrees with the findings of potentiodynamic polarization tests. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was executed to analyze the passive film formed in the solution of HA and NaCl on 316L SS. XPS spectra confirms the formation of the passive film containing chromium oxide and hydroxides. Also, the formation of MoO2 helps in improving better corrosion resistance. The peak of nitrogen was observed in the sample immersed in HA solution. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was carried out to analyze the surface morphology.

  2. Severe visual loss and cerebral infarction after injection of hyaluronic acid gel.

    PubMed

    Kim, Eung Gyu; Eom, Tae Kyung; Kang, Seok Joo

    2014-01-01

    We report a case of a 23-year-old man with cerebral infarction and permanent visual loss after injection of a hyaluronic acid gel filler for augmentation rhinoplasty. The patient was admitted to the hospital with complaints of loss of vision in the right eye, facial paralysis on the right side, and paralysis of the left limbs with severe pain during augmentation rhinoplasty with filler injection. Brain magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography showed ophthalmic artery obstruction and right middle cerebral artery infarction. Acute thrombolysis was performed to treat the infarction; however, the patient's condition did not improve. Intracerebral hemorrhage in the right temporal/frontal/occipital/parietal lobe, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and midline shifting were observed on brain computed tomography after 24 hours after thrombolysis. Emergency decompressive craniectomy was performed. After the surgery, the patient continued to experience drowsiness, with no improvement in visual loss and motor weakness. Three months later, he could walk with cane. This case indicates that surgeons who administer filler injections should be familiar with the possibility of accidental intravascular injection and should explain the adverse effects of fillers to patients before surgery.

  3. Improving numeracy through values affirmation enhances decision and STEM outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Peters, Ellen; Tompkins, Mary Kate; Schley, Dan; Meilleur, Louise; Sinayev, Aleksander; Tusler, Martin; Wagner, Laura; Crocker, Jennifer

    2017-01-01

    Greater numeracy has been correlated with better health and financial outcomes in past studies, but causal effects in adults are unknown. In a 9-week longitudinal study, undergraduate students, all taking a psychology statistics course, were randomly assigned to a control condition or a values-affirmation manipulation intended to improve numeracy. By the final week in the course, the numeracy intervention (statistics-course enrollment combined with values affirmation) enhanced objective numeracy, subjective numeracy, and two decision-related outcomes (financial literacy and health-related behaviors). It also showed positive indirect-only effects on financial outcomes and a series of STEM-related outcomes (course grades, intentions to take more math-intensive courses, later math-intensive courses taken based on academic transcripts). All decision and STEM-related outcome effects were mediated by the changes in objective and/or subjective numeracy and demonstrated similar and robust enhancements. Improvements to abstract numeric reasoning can improve everyday outcomes. PMID:28704410

  4. Pirfenidone vs. sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose as prevention of the formation of intra-abdominal adhesions after colonic surgery. A randomized study in an experimental model.

    PubMed

    Bello-Guerrero, Jorge Alberto; Cruz-Santiago, César Alberto; Luna-Martínez, Javier

    2016-01-01

    Up to 93% of patients undergoing abdominal surgery will develop intra-abdominal adhesions with the subsequent morbidity that they represent. Various substances have been tested for the prevention of adhesions with controversial results; the aim of our study is to compare the capability of pirfenidone in adhesion prevention against sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose. A randomized, prospective, longitudinal experimental study with Winstar rats. They were divided into 3 groups. The subjects underwent an exploratory laparotomy and they had a 4cm(2) cecal abrasion. The first group received saline on the cecal abrasion, and groups 2 and 3 received pirfenidone and sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose respectively. All rats were sacrificed on the 21st day after surgery and the presence of adhesions was evaluated with the modified Granat scale. Simple frequency, central tendency and dispersion measures were recorded. For the statistical analysis we used Fisher's test. To evaluate adhesions we used the Granat's modified scale. The control group had a median adhesion formation of 3 (range 0-4). The pirfenidone group had 1.5 (range 0-3), and the sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose group had 0 (range 0-1). There was a statistically significant difference to favor sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose against saline and pirfenidone (P<0.009 and P<.022 respectively). The use of sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose is effective for the prevention of intra-abdominal adhesions. More experimental studies are needed in search for the optimal adhesion prevention drug. Copyright © 2015 AEC. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  5. Outcomes-focused knowledge translation: a framework for knowledge translation and patient outcomes improvement.

    PubMed

    Doran, Diane M; Sidani, Souraya

    2007-01-01

    Regularly accessing information that is current and reliable continues to be a challenge for front-line staff nurses. Reconceptualizing how nurses access information and designing appropriate decision support systems to facilitate timely access to information may be important for increasing research utilization. An outcomes-focused knowledge translation framework was developed to guide the continuous improvement of patient care through the uptake of research evidence and feedback data about patient outcomes. The framework operationalizes the three elements of the PARIHS framework at the point of care. Outcomes-focused knowledge translation involves four components: (a) patient outcomes measurement and real-time feedback about outcomes achievement; (b) best-practice guidelines, embedded in decision support tools that deliver key messages in response to patient assessment data; (c) clarification of patients' preferences for care; and (d) facilitation by advanced practice nurses and practice leaders. In this paper the framework is described and evidence is provided to support theorized relationships among the concepts in the framework. The framework guided the design of a knowledge translation intervention aimed at continuous improvement of patient care and evidence-based practice, which are fostered through real-time feedback data about patient outcomes, electronic access to evidence-based resources at the point of care, and facilitation by advanced practice nurses. The propositions in the framework need to be empirically tested through future research.

  6. The Social Responsibility Performance Outcomes Model: Building Socially Responsible Companies through Performance Improvement Outcomes.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hatcher, Tim

    2000-01-01

    Considers the role of performance improvement professionals and human resources development professionals in helping organizations realize the ethical and financial power of corporate social responsibility. Explains the social responsibility performance outcomes model, which incorporates the concepts of societal needs and outcomes. (LRW)

  7. Highly efficient production of hyaluronic acid by Streptococcus zooepidemicus R42 derived from heterologous expression of bacterial haemoglobin and mutant selection.

    PubMed

    Lu, J F; Zhu, Y; Sun, H L; Liang, S; Leng, F F; Li, H Y

    2016-04-01

    During Streptococcus zooepidemicus fermentation, most carbon sources are used to synthesize lactic acid, which can inhibit strain growth and hyaluronic acid production. Here, we expressed bacterial haemoglobin (Vhb) in Strep. zooepidemicus. Due to highly efficient oxygen use, only 15·26 g l(-1) lactic acid was produced, which is 0·73 times the quantity produced by the control strain. Compared with the control strain (1·61 g l(-1) ), hyaluronic acid (HA) production in this strain did not substantially increase, only to 2·16 g l(-1) . Next, we used a series of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitroso-guanidine (NTG) treatments and selection programmes. Finally, we generated a hyaluronidase-negative and rifampin-resistant mutant strain that produces high levels of HA. The optimum carbon concentration for maximum hyaluronic acid production is only 30 g l(-1) of sucrose, which is lower than the control strain (60 g l(-1) ). The oxygen transfer rate coefficient KL a increased significantly to 372 ± 53 h(-1) from 18 ± 4 h(-1) of the control. The optimum carbon source for this strain is 21 g l(-1) of sucrose, 9 g l(-1) of maltose and 5 g l(-1) of glutamic acid. Hyaluronic acid accumulated at 6·7 g l(-1) in the culture broth. However, the molecular weight of HA decreased from 1835 KDa (Control) to 429 kDa. The prepared low-molecular weight HA could function as potential antiangiogenic substances, antiviral and antitumour agents to possibly be used as functional food ingredients. Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been used for a wide range of applications in health, cosmetic and clinical fields. During fermentation of Streptococcus to produce HA, 80-85% of the carbon source is used to produce lactic acid and acetic acid, and only approx. 5 and 10% of the carbon source is used to produce HA and biomass respectively. Here, we expressed bacteria haemoglobin (Vhb) in Streptococcus zooepidemicus, which can dramatically inhibit lactic acid production. After NTG

  8. Optical clearing of skin enhanced with hyaluronic acid for increased contrast of optoacoustic imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liopo, Anton; Su, Richard; Tsyboulski, Dmitri A.; Oraevsky, Alexander A.

    2016-08-01

    Enhanced delivery of optical clearing agents (OCA) through skin may improve sensitivity of optical and optoacoustic (OA) methods of imaging, sensing, and monitoring. This report describes a two-step method for enhancement of light penetration through skin. Here, we demonstrate that topical application of hyaluronic acid (HA) improves skin penetration of hydrophilic and lipophilic OCA and thus enhances their performance. We examined the OC effect of 100% polyethylene and polypropylene glycols (PPGs) and their mixture after pretreatment by HA, and demonstrated significant increase in efficiency of light penetration through skin. Increased light transmission resulted in a significant increase of OA image contrast in vitro. Topical pretreatment of skin for about 30 min with 0.5% HA in aqueous solution offers effective delivery of low molecular weight OCA such as a mixture of PPG-425 and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-400. The developed approach of pretreatment by HA prior to application of clearing agents (PEG and PPG) resulted in a ˜47-fold increase in transmission of red and near-infrared light and significantly enhanced contrast of OA images.

  9. Peritoneal Macrophage-Specific TNF-α Gene Silencing in LPS-Induced Acute Inflammation Model Using CD44 Targeting Hyaluronic Acid Nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Kosovrasti, Verbena Y; Nechev, Lubomir V; Amiji, Mansoor M

    2016-10-03

    The main goal of this study was to evaluate tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) gene silencing in peritoneal macrophages upon activation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), using CD44-targeting hyaluronic acid (HA)-based nanoparticles encapsulating TNF-α-specific small interfering RNA (siTNF-α). HA nanoparticles were formulated by blending hyaluronic acid-poly(ethylene imine) (HA-PEI), hyaluronic acid-hexyl fatty acid (HA-C6), and hyaluronic acid-poly(ethylene glycol) (HA-PEG) in 3:2:1 weight ratio, and encapsulating siTNF-α to form spherical particles of 78-90 nm diameter. Following intraperitoneal (IP) administration in LPS-treated C57BL/6 mice, the nanoparticles were actively taken up by macrophages and led to a significant downregulation of peritoneal TNF-α level. Downregulation of peritoneal macrophage-specific TNF-α also had a significant impact on other pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine levels in the serum. The C57BL/6 group of mice challenged with 5 mg/kg LPS had a significantly higher survival rate when they were treated with 3 mg/kg siTNF-α, either prior or simultaneously with the LPS administration, as compared to the LPS-challenged mice, which were treated with controls including the scrambled siRNA formulation. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that CD44 targeting HA nanoparticles can selectively deliver siTNF-α to peritoneal macrophages leading to downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the peritoneal fluid and in the serum. This RNAi strategy could potentially provide an important therapeutic modality for acute inflammatory diseases, such as septic shock.

  10. The self-crosslinking smart hyaluronic acid hydrogels as injectable three-dimensional scaffolds for cells culture.

    PubMed

    Bian, Shaoquan; He, Mengmeng; Sui, Junhui; Cai, Hanxu; Sun, Yong; Liang, Jie; Fan, Yujiang; Zhang, Xingdong

    2016-04-01

    Although the disulfide bond crosslinked hyaluronic acid hydrogels have been reported by many research groups, the major researches were focused on effectively forming hydrogels. However, few researchers paid attention to the potential significance of controlling the hydrogel formation and degradation, improving biocompatibility, reducing the toxicity of exogenous and providing convenience to the clinical operations later on. In this research, the novel controllable self-crosslinking smart hydrogels with in-situ gelation property was prepared by a single component, the thiolated hyaluronic acid derivative (HA-SH), and applied as a three-dimensional scaffold to mimic native extracellular matrix (ECM) for the culture of fibroblasts cells (L929) and chondrocytes. A series of HA-SH hydrogels were prepared depending on different degrees of thiol substitution (ranging from 10 to 60%) and molecule weights of HA (0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 MDa). The gelation time, swelling property and smart degradation behavior of HA-SH hydrogel were evaluated. The results showed that the gelation and degradation time of hydrogels could be controlled by adjusting the component of HA-SH polymers. The storage modulus of HA-SH hydrogels obtained by dynamic modulus analysis (DMA) could be up to 44.6 kPa. In addition, HA-SH hydrogels were investigated as a three-dimensional scaffold for the culture of fibroblasts cells (L929) and chondrocytes cells in vitro and as an injectable hydrogel for delivering chondrocytes cells in vivo. These results illustrated that HA-SH hydrogels with controllable gelation process, intelligent degradation behavior, excellent biocompatibility and convenient operational characteristics supplied potential clinical application capacity for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Ameliorative Effect of Curcumin-Encapsulated Hyaluronic Acid-PLA Nanoparticles on Thioacetamide-Induced Murine Hepatic Fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yu-Nong; Hsu, Shih-Lan; Liao, Ming-Yuan; Liu, Yi-Ting; Lai, Chien-Hung; Chen, Ji-Feng; Nguyen, Mai-Huong Thi; Su, Yung-Hsiang; Chen, Shang-Ting; Wu, Li-Chen

    2016-12-24

    In this study, we developed curcumin-encapsulated hyaluronic acid-polylactide nanoparticles (CEHPNPs) to be used for liver fibrosis amelioration. CD44, the hyaluronic acid (HA) receptor, is upregulated on the surface of cancer cells and on activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) rather than normal cells. CEHPNPs could bind to CD44 and be internalized effectively through endocytosis to release curcumin, a poor water-soluble liver protective agent. Thus, CEHPNPs were potentially not only improving drug efficiency, but also targeting aHSCs. HA and polylactide (PLA) were crosslinked by adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH). The synthesis of HA-PLA was monitored by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). The average particle size was approximately 60-70 nm as determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Zeta potential was around -30 mV, which suggested a good stability of the particles. This drug delivery system induced significant aHSC cell death without affecting quiescent HSCs, hepatic epithelial, and parenchymal cells. This system reduced drug dosage without sacrificing therapeutic efficacy. The cytotoxicity IC 50 (inhibitory concentration at 50%) value of CEHPNPs was approximately 1/30 to that of the free drug treated group in vitro. Additionally, the therapeutic effects of CEHPNPs were as effective as the group treated with the same curcumin dose intensity in vivo. CEHPNPs significantly reduced serum aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase (ALT/AST) significantly, and attenuated tissue collagen production and cell proliferation as revealed by liver biopsy. Conclusively, the advantages of superior biosafety and satisfactory therapeutic effect mean that CEHPNPs hold great potential for treating hepatic fibrosis.

  12. Therapeutic efficacy of three hyaluronic acid formulations in young and middle-aged patients with early-stage meniscal injuries

    PubMed Central

    Dernek, Bahar; Kesiktas, Fatma Nur; Duymus, Tahir Mutlu; Diracoglu, Demirhan; Aksoy, Cihan

    2017-01-01

    [Purpose] To investigate and compare the efficacy of three hyaluronic acid formulations in patients with early-stage meniscal injuries. [Subjects and Methods] Male and female patients who were admitted to our clinic between January 2013 and December 2013, diagnosed with early-stage meniscus lesions of the knee, and given a hyaluronic acid treatment were included in this retrospective study. Patients were categorized into 3 groups according to their treatments: MONOVISC, OSTENIL PLUS, or ORTHOVISC. Scores from a Visual Analog Scale and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index were evaluated at baseline and one, three, and six months after baseline. [Results] A total of 55 patients were included in this study. Most of the patients were female (55%), and the mean age of the patients was 42.4 (± 8.1) years. Based on the pre- and post-injection data, there was significant reductions both in the Visual Analog Scale score and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index score after the injections for all groups. According to intergroup comparisons, no significant difference was observed in terms of efficacy. [Conclusion] Three hyaluronic acid formulations produced a similar efficacy in patients with meniscal injuries, and further studies are needed to evaluate long-term results. PMID:28744035

  13. Effect analysis of intradermal hyaluronic acid injection to treat enlarged facial pores.

    PubMed

    Qian, Wei; Zhang, Yan-Kun; Hou, Ying; Lyu, Wei; Cao, Qian; Li, Yan-Qi; Fan, Ju-Feng

    2017-08-08

    To investigate the clinical application and efficacy of intradermal injection of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (LMW-HA) for treating enlarged facial pores. From January 2015 to May 2016, 42 subjects who sought aesthetic treatment underwent intradermal injection of LMW-HA to improve enlarged facial pores. For each treatment, 2.5 mL (25 mg) of LMW-HA was injected into the skin of the full face. The treatment was repeated 2-5 times with an interval of 1 to 1.5 months between consecutive treatments. The postoperative follow-up period was 1 to 6 months. Statistical analysis was used to compare the degree of enlargement of facial pores before and after injection. The clinical efficacy and adverse effects were recorded. The enlarged facial pores before and after treatment were categorized and subjected to the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test. The difference was statistically significant (P<.01). The improvement rate was 40.03±18.41%. No infection, nodules, or pigmentation was reported at the injection sites in the subjects who sought aesthetic treatment. The overall satisfaction rate was 92.8%. Intradermal injection of LMW-HA can significantly improve skin texture, reduce pore size, and enhance skin radiance. The injection technique was simple, safe, and effective and could easily be extended to clinical practice. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  14. Intra-Articular Hyaluronic Acid Compared to Traditional Conservative Treatment in Dogs with Osteoarthritis Associated with Hip Dysplasia

    PubMed Central

    Carapeba, Gabriel O. L.; Cavaleti, Poliana; Brinholi, Rejane B.

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of the intra-articular (IA) hyaluronic acid injection to traditional conservative treatment (TCT) in dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) induced by hip dysplasia. Sixteen dogs were distributed into two groups: Hyal: IA injection of hyaluronic acid (5–10 mg), and Control: IA injection with saline solution (0.5–1.0 mL) in combination with a TCT using an oral nutraceutical (750–1000 mg every 12 h for 90 days) and carprofen (2.2 mg/kg every 12 h for 15 days). All dogs were assessed by a veterinarian on five occasions and the owner completed an assessment form (HCPI and CPBI) at the same time. The data were analyzed using unpaired t test, ANOVA, and Tukey's test (P < 0.05). Compared with baseline, lower scores were observed in both groups over the 90 days in the veterinarian evaluation, HCPI, and CPBI (P < 0.001). The Hyal group exhibited lower scores from 15 to 90 and 60 to 90 days, in the CBPI and in the veterinarian evaluation, respectively, compared to the Control group. Both treatments reduced the clinical signs associated with hip OA. However, more significant results were achieved with intra-articular hyaluronic acid injection. PMID:27847523

  15. Innovative strategies to improve diabetes outcomes in disadvantaged populations.

    PubMed

    Ruddock, J S; Poindexter, M; Gary-Webb, T L; Walker, E A; Davis, N J

    2016-06-01

    Diabetes disproportionately affects disadvantaged populations. Eighty percent of deaths directly caused by diabetes occurred in low- and middle-income countries. In high-income countries, there are marked disparities in diabetes control among racial/ethnic minorities and those with low socio-economic status. Innovative, effective and cost-effective strategies are needed to improve diabetes outcomes in these populations. Technological advances, peer educators and community health workers have expanded methodologies to reach, educate and monitor individuals with diabetes. In the present manuscript we review the outcomes of these strategies, and describe the barriers to and facilitators of these approaches for improving diabetes outcomes. © 2016 Diabetes UK.

  16. Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid endoscopic injection is effective in the treatment of intermediate and high grade vesicoureteral reflux in patients with complete duplex systems.

    PubMed

    Hunziker, Manuela; Mohanan, Nochiparambil; Puri, Prem

    2013-05-01

    Endoscopic subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid has become an established alternative to long-term antibiotic prophylaxis or surgical treatment for vesicoureteral reflux. We evaluated the effectiveness of endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in intermediate and high grade vesicoureteral reflux in patients with complete duplex collecting systems. A total of 123 children underwent endoscopic correction of intermediate or high grade vesicoureteral reflux using injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid into complete duplex systems between 2001 and 2010. Vesicoureteral reflux was diagnosed by voiding cystourethrogram, and dimercapto-succinic acid scan was performed to evaluate the presence of renal scarring. Followup ultrasound and voiding cystourethrogram were performed 3 months after the outpatient procedure and renal ultrasound thereafter every 2 years. Mean followup was 6.7 years. Complete duplex systems were unilateral in 110 patients and bilateral in 13. Reflux severity in the 136 refluxing units was grade II in 1 (0.7%), III in 52 (38.2%), IV in 61 (44.9%) and V in 22 (16.2%). Dimercapto-succinic acid scan revealed renal functional abnormalities in 63 children (51.2%). Vesicoureteral reflux resolved after the first endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in 93 ureters (68.4%), after a second injection in 35 (25.7%) and after a third injection in 8 (5.9%). Febrile urinary tract infection developed in 5 patients (4.1%) during followup. No patient required ureteral reimplantation or experienced significant complications. Our results confirm the safety and efficacy of endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in eradicating intermediate and high grade vesicoureteral reflux in patients with complete duplex systems. We recommend this minimally invasive, 15-minute outpatient procedure as a viable option for treating intermediate and high grade vesicoureteral reflux in patients with complete duplex collecting systems

  17. Nonsurgical Rejuvenation of the Eyelids with Hyaluronic Acid Gel Injections

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Seongmu; Yen, Michael T.

    2017-01-01

    There has been an increased recognition for the role volume deflation plays in the aging periorbital area, and as such, rejuvenation strategies to augment and restore volume have developed and evolved. Hyaluronic acid fillers provide an efficient option for volume augmentation with good efficacy, longevity, and safety. An understanding of the changes in the upper and lower periocular area due to aging, the meticulous identification of focal hollows, and the precise delivery of filler to these areas can smooth contours and restore a rejuvenated periorbital area. PMID:28255285

  18. Application of Six Sigma towards improving surgical outcomes.

    PubMed

    Shukla, P J; Barreto, S G; Nadkarni, M S

    2008-01-01

    Six Sigma is a 'process excellence' tool targeting continuous improvement achieved by providing a methodology for improving key steps of a process. It is ripe for application into health care since almost all health care processes require a near-zero tolerance for mistakes. The aim of this study is to apply the Six Sigma methodology into a clinical surgical process and to assess the improvement (if any) in the outcomes and patient care. The guiding principles of Six Sigma, namely DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), were used to analyze the impact of double stapling technique (DST) towards improving sphincter preservation rates for rectal cancer. The analysis using the Six Sigma methodology revealed a Sigma score of 2.10 in relation to successful sphincter preservation. This score demonstrates an improvement over the previous technique (73% over previous 54%). This study represents one of the first clinical applications of Six Sigma in the surgical field. By understanding, accepting, and applying the principles of Six Sigma, we have an opportunity to transfer a very successful management philosophy to facilitate the identification of key steps that can improve outcomes and ultimately patient safety and the quality of surgical care provided.

  19. Improved anti-tumor activity and safety profile of a paclitaxel-loaded glycyrrhetinic acid-graft-hyaluronic acid conjugate as a synergistically targeted drug delivery system.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Li; Zhou, Jian-Ping; Yao, Jing

    2015-12-01

    The present study was designed to develop and evaluate glycyrrhetinic acid-graft-hyaluronic acid (HGA) conjugate for intravenous paclitaxel (PTX) delivery. Lyophilized PTX-loaded self-assembled HGA nanoparticles (PTX/HGAs) were prepared and characterized by dynamic light scattering measurements. Hemolysis test, intravenous irritation assessment, and in vitro and in vivo pharmacodynamic studies were carried out. B16F10 and HepG2 cells were used in the cell apoptosis analysis. The mouse MDA-MB-231 xenograft model was used for the evaluation of in vivo anticancer activity of the drugs, by the analysis of tumor growth and side effects on other tissues. PTX/HGAs showed high stability and good biocompability. Compared with PTX plus GA plus HA solution, PTX/HGAs displayed obvious superiority in inducing the apoptosis of the cancer cells. Following systemic administration, PTX/HGAs efficiently suppressed tumor growth, with mean tumor inhibition ratio (TIR) being 65.08%, which was significantly higher than that of PTX plus GA plus HA treatment. In conclusion, PTX/HGAs demonstrated inhibitory effects tumor growth without unwanted side effects, suggesting that HGA conjugates hold a great potential as a delivery carrier for cancer chemotherapeutics to improve therapeutic efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Copyright © 2015 China Pharmaceutical University. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Trading water to improve environmental flow outcomes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Connor, Jeffery D.; Franklin, Brad; Loch, Adam; Kirby, Mac; Wheeler, Sarah Ann

    2013-07-01

    As consumptive extractions and water scarcity pressures brought about by climate change increase in many world river basins, so do the risks to water-dependent ecological assets. In response, public or not for profit environmental water holders (EWHs) have been established in many areas and bestowed with endowments of water and mandates to manage water for ecological outcomes. Water scarcity has also increasingly spawned water trade arrangements in many river basins, and in many instances, EWHs are now operating in water markets. A number of EWHs, especially in Australia, begin with an endowment of permanent water entitlements purchased from irrigators. Such water entitlements typically have relatively constant interannual supply profiles that often do not match ecological water demand involving flood pulses and periods of drying. This article develops a hydrologic-economic simulation model of the Murrumbidgee catchment within the Murray-Darling Basin to assess the scope of possibilities to improve environmental outcomes through EWH trading on an annual water lease market. We find that there are some modest opportunities for EWHs to improve environmental outcomes through water trade. The best opportunities occur in periods of drought and for ecological outcomes that benefit from moderately large floods. We also assess the extent to which EWH trading in annual water leases may create pecuniary externalities via bidding up or down the water lease prices faced by irrigators. Environmental water trading is found to have relatively small impacts on water market price outcomes. Overall our results suggest that the benefits of developing EWH trading may well justify the costs.

  1. Effect of gamma irradiation on hyaluronic acid and dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) interaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmad, Ainee Fatimah; Mohd, Hur Munawar Kabir; bin Ayob, Muhammad Taqiyuddin Mawardi; Rosli, Nur Ratasha Alia Md; Mohamed, Faizal; Radiman, Shahidan; Rahman, Irman Abdul

    2014-09-01

    DPPC lipids are the major component constituting the biological membrane, and their importances in various physiological functions are well documented. Hyaluronic acid (HA) in the synovial joint fluid functions as a lubricant, shock absorber and a nutrient carrier. Gamma irradiation has also been found to be effective in depolymerizing and cleaving molecular chains related to free radicals, thus extends with changes in chemical composition as well as its physiological functions. This research are conducted to investigate the hyaluronic acid (HA) and 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) interaction in form of vesicles and its effect to gamma radiation. The size of DPPC vesicles formed via gentle hydration method is between 100 to 200 nm in diameter. HA (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/ml) was added into the vesicles and characterized by using TEM to determine vesicle size distributions, fusion and rupture of DPPC structure. The results demonstrated that the size of the vesicles approximately between 200 to 300 nm which caused by vesicles fusion with HA and formed even larger vesicles. After being irradiated by 0 to 200 Gy, the size of vesicles decreased as HA was degraded. To elucidate the mechanism of these effects, FTIR spectra were carried out and have shown that at absorption bands at 1700-1750 cm-1 due to formation of carboxylic acid and leads to alteration of HA structure.

  2. Synthesis and radiosensitization properties of hydrogen peroxide and sodium hyaluronate complex

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rosli, Nur Ratasha Alia Md.; Mohamed, Faizal; Heng, Cheong Kai; Rahman, Irman Abdul; Ahmad, Ainee Fatimah; Mohamad, Hur Munawar Kabir

    2014-09-01

    Cancer cells which are large in size are resistant towards radiation therapy due to the presence of large amount of anti-oxidative enzymes and hypoxic cancer cells. Thus radiosensitizer agents have been developed to enhance the therapeutic effect of radiotherapy by increasing the sensitivity of these cancer cells towards radiation. This study is conducted to investigate the radiosensitization properties of radiosensitizer complex containing hydrogen peroxide and sodium hyaluronate. Combination with sodium hyaluronate may decrease reactivity of hydrogen peroxide but maintain the oxygen concentration needed for radiosensitizing effect. HepG2 cancer cells are cultured as the mean of test subject. Cancer cell samples which are targeted and not targeted with these radiosensitizers are irradiated with 2Gy single fractionated dose. Results obtained shows that the cancer cells which are not targeted with radiosensitizers has a cell viability of 98.80±0.37% after a time interval of 48 hours and has even repopulated over 100% after a 72 hour time interval. This shows that the cancer cells are resistant towards radiation. However, when the cancer cells are targeted with radiosensitizers prior to irradiation, there is a reduction of cell viability by 25.50±10.81% and 10.30±5.10% at time intervals of 48 and 72 hours respectively. This indicates that through the use of these radiosensitizers, cancer cells are more sensitive towards radiation.

  3. PRELIMINARY HIGH PERFORMANCE CAPILLARY ELECTROPHORESIS (HPCE) STUDIES OF ENZYMATIC DEGRADATION OF HYALURONIC ACID BY HYALURONIDASE IN THE PRESENCE OF POLYVALENT METAL IONS.

    PubMed

    Urbaniak, Bartosz; Plewa, Szymon; Kokot, Zenon Jozef

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this study was, at first, to examine the influence of metal ions on digestion process of hyaluronic acid by hyaluronidase (HAse) using high performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) method. The influence of copper(H), zinc(Il), manganese(II) ions on enzymatic degradation of HA by hyaluronidase enzyme (HA-se) were investigated. Secondly, the kinetic parameters, V(max), K(m), k(cat), and k (cat),/K(m) were determined to estimate the impact of these metal ions (Me) on digestion process of hyaluronic acid (HA). The two different HA-Me mole ratios were analyzed. The examined data were always compared to the digestion process of pure HA solution by hyaluronidase, to exhibit the differences in the digestion process of pure hyaluronan as well as the hyaluronan in the presence of metal ions. It was observed that all of the investigated metal ions have influenced the hyaluronic acid degradation process. The most important conclusion was a decrease of the kinetic parameters both K,, and V,. In the result, it can be assumed that in all of the studied samples with metal ions addition, the uncompetitive mechanism of enzyme inhibition occurred. The results of this study may give new insight into foregoing knowledge about hyaluronic acid behavior. Due to the fact that our study was carried out only for three different metal ions in two concentrations, it is necessary to continue further research comprising wider range of metal ions and their concentrations.

  4. Host cell recruitment patterns by bone morphogenetic protein-2 releasing hyaluronic acid hydrogels in a mouse subcutaneous environment.

    PubMed

    Todeschi, Maria R; El Backly, Rania M; Varghese, Oommen P; Hilborn, Jöns; Cancedda, Ranieri; Mastrogiacomo, Maddalena

    2017-07-01

    This study aimed to identify host cell recruitment patterns in a mouse model in response to rhBMP-2 releasing hyaluronic acid hydrogels and influence of added nano-hydroxyapatite particles on rhBMP-2 release and pattern of bone formation. Implanted gels were retrieved after implantation and cells were enzymatically dissociated for flow cytometric analysis. Percentages of macrophages, progenitor endothelial cells and putative mesenchymal stem cells were measured. Implants were evaluated for BMP-2 release by ELISA and by histology to monitor tissue formation. Hyaluronic acid+BMP-2 gels influenced the inflammatory response in the bone healing microenvironment. Host-derived putative mesenchymal stem cells were major contributors. Addition of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles modified the release pattern of rhBMP-2, resulting in enhanced bone formation.

  5. Integrating empowerment evaluation and quality improvement to achieve healthcare improvement outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Wandersman, Abraham; Alia, Kassandra Ann; Cook, Brittany; Ramaswamy, Rohit

    2015-01-01

    While the body of evidence-based healthcare interventions grows, the ability of health systems to deliver these interventions effectively and efficiently lags behind. Quality improvement approaches, such as the model for improvement, have demonstrated some success in healthcare but their impact has been lessened by implementation challenges. To help address these challenges, we describe the empowerment evaluation approach that has been developed by programme evaluators and a method for its application (Getting To Outcomes (GTO)). We then describe how GTO can be used to implement healthcare interventions. An illustrative healthcare quality improvement example that compares the model for improvement and the GTO method for reducing hospital admissions through improved diabetes care is described. We conclude with suggestions for integrating GTO and the model for improvement. PMID:26178332

  6. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of combinations of hydroquinone, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid in the treatment of melasma.

    PubMed

    Ibrahim, Zeinab A; Gheida, Shereen F; El Maghraby, Gamal M; Farag, Zeinab E

    2015-06-01

    Various treatments are currently available for melasma. However, results are often disappointing. 1 To assess the efficacy and safety of combinations of hydroquinone, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid in the treatment of melasma after topical application. 2 To evaluate the dermoscopy as a tool in diagnosis and follow-up of melasma treatment. One hundred patients with mild, moderate-to-severe melasma were divided into five groups. Group I (twenty patients were treated with cream formula containing 4% hydroquinone), group II (twenty patients were treated with cream formula containing 4% hydroquinone + 10% glycolic acid), group III (twenty patients were treated with cream formula containing 4% hydroquinone + 0.01% hyaluronic acid), group IV (twenty patients were treated with cream formula containing 4% hydroquinone + 10% glycolic acid + 0.01% hyaluronic acid), and group V (twenty patients were treated with placebo cream). All patients were subjected to dermoscopic examination and digital photographs before and after treatment. The response and side effects were evaluated. Groups I, III, and IV showed highly significant changes in modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) score after using the treatment. Group II showed significant change in mMASI score after using the treatment. The side effects were more reported in group II, followed by group IV, followed by group I, followed by group III. There was highly significant difference between the dermoscopic color findings before and after treatment. Vascularization was another dermoscopic finding. A cream formula containing 4% hydroquinone + 10% glycolic acid + 0.01% hyaluronic acid was very effective in treatment of melasma with tolerable side effects. Dermoscope is a valuable noninvasive tool in the diagnosis and follow-up of melasma treatment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  7. Polyamine/salt-assembled microspheres coated with hyaluronic acid for targeting and pH sensing.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Pan; Yang, Hui; Wang, Guojun; Tong, Weijun; Gao, Changyou

    2016-06-01

    The poly(allylamine hydrochloride)/trisodium citrate aggregates were fabricated and further covalently crosslinked via the coupling reaction of carboxylic sites on trisodium citrate with the amine groups on polyamine, onto which poly-L-lysine and hyaluronic acid were sequentially assembled, forming stable microspheres. The pH sensitive dye and pH insensitive dye were further labeled to enable the microspheres with pH sensing property. Moreover, these microspheres could be specifically targeted to HeLa tumor cells, since hyaluronic acid can specifically recognize and bind to CD44, a receptor overexpressed on many tumor cells. Quantitative pH measurement by confocal laser scanning microscopy demonstrated that the microspheres were internalized into HeLa cells, and accumulated in acidic compartments. By contrast, only a few microspheres were adhered on the NIH 3T3 cells surface. The microspheres with combined pH sensing property and targeting ability can enhance the insight understanding of the targeted drug vehicles trafficking after cellular internalization. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Effects of advanced selection methods on sperm quality and ART outcome.

    PubMed

    Yetunde, I; Vasiliki, M

    2013-10-01

    In assisted reproductive technology (ART), the role of spermatozoa has evolved over the years. In the past, early methods of selecting sperm for ART only focused on selecting motile and morphologically normal appearing sperm. It has become evident that these methods are inefficient in identifying the most suitable sperm for fertilization. Novel methods have thus been created to identify highly motile, morphologically normal, viable non-apoptotic spermatozoa with intact membranes and high DNA integrity for use in ART. These advanced methods of selection utilize our knowledge of unique characteristics of sperm, such as sperm surface charge, the presence of hyaluronic acid binding sites on sperm, sperm ultramorphology, markers of apoptosis and zona pellucida binding on sperm. These methods have shown potential promise in improving ART outcomes. Future developments may include Raman spectroscopy, confocal light absorption and scattering spectroscopic microscopy, and polarization microscopy. While these novel techniques have potential, they come with a cost burden and further studies are required to demonstrate their impact on ART outcomes. Furthermore, clinicians and human reproductive scientists need to continue to gather knowledge about human fertilization and determine the most physiological methods of sperm selection.

  9. Magnetic hyaluronate hydrogels: preparation and characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tóth, Ildikó Y.; Veress, Gábor; Szekeres, Márta; Illés, Erzsébet; Tombácz, Etelka

    2015-04-01

    A novel soft way of hyaluronate (HyA) based magnetic hydrogel preparation was revealed. Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) were prepared by co-precipitation. Since the naked MNPs cannot be dispersed homogenously in HyA-gel, their surface was modified with natural and biocompatible chondroitin-sulfate-A (CSA) to obtain CSA-coated MNPs (CSA@MNPs). The aggregation state of MNPs and that loaded with increasing amount of CSA up to 1 mmol/g was measured by dynamic light scattering at pH~6. Only CSA@MNP with ≥0.2 mmol/g CSA content was suitable for magnetic HyA-gel preparation. Rheological studies showed that the presence of CSA@MNP with up to 2 g/L did not affect the hydrogel's rheological behavior significantly. The results suggest that the HyA-based magnetic hydrogels may be promising formulations for future biomedical applications, e.g. as intra-articular injections in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

  10. TIAM1 variants improve clinical outcome in neuroblastoma.

    PubMed

    Sanmartín, Elena; Yáñez, Yania; Fornés-Ferrer, Victoria; Zugaza, José L; Cañete, Adela; Castel, Victoria; Font de Mora, Jaime

    2017-07-11

    Identification of tumor driver mutations is crucial for improving clinical outcome using a personalized approach to the treatment of cancer. Neuroblastoma is a tumor of the peripheral sympathetic nervous system for which only a few driver alterations have been described including MYCN amplification and ALK mutations. We assessed 106 primary neuroblastoma tumors by next generation sequencing using a customized amplicon-based gene panel. Our results reveal that genetic variants in TIAM1 gene associate with better clinical outcome, suggesting a role for these TIAM1 variants in preventing progression of this disease. The detected variants are located within the different domains of TIAM1 that signal to the upstream regulator RAS and downstream effector molecules MYC and RAC, which are all implicated in neuroblastoma etiology and progression. Clinical outcome was improved in tumors where a TIAM1 variant was present concomitantly with either ALK mutation or MYCN amplification. Given the function of these signaling molecules in cell survival, proliferation, differentiation and neurite outgrowth, our data suggest that the TIAM1-mediated network is essential to neuroblastoma and thus, inhibiting TIAM1 reflects a rational strategy for improving therapy efficacy in neuroblastoma.

  11. The theory of music, mood and movement to improve health outcomes.

    PubMed

    Murrock, Carolyn J; Higgins, Patricia A

    2009-10-01

    This paper presents a discussion of the development of a middle-range nursing theory of the effects of music on physical activity and improved health outcomes. Due to the high rate of physical inactivity and the associated negative health outcomes worldwide, nurses need new evidence-based theories and interventions to increase physical activity. The theory of music, mood and movement (MMM) was developed from physical activity guidelines and music theory using the principles of statement and theory synthesis. The concepts of music, physical activity and health outcomes were searched using the CINAHL, MEDLINE, ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Source, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library databases covering the years 1975-2008. The theory of MMM was synthesized by combining the psychological and physiological responses of music to increase physical activity and improve health outcomes. It proposes that music alters mood, is a cue for movement, and makes physical activity more enjoyable leading to improved health outcomes of weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cardiovascular risk factor management, and improved quality of life. As it was developed from the physical activity guidelines, the middle-range theory is prescriptive, produces testable hypotheses, and can guide nursing research and practice. The middle-range theory needs to be tested to determine its usefulness for nurses to develop physical activity programmes to improve health outcomes across various cultures.

  12. Comparison of intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections with transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation for the management of knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Chen, Wen-Ling; Hsu, Wei-Chun; Lin, Yi-Jia; Hsieh, Lin-Fen

    2013-08-01

    To compare the effects of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA; ARTZ) and transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) in the treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis. A prospective, randomized controlled trial. Rehabilitation clinic of a teaching hospital. Patients with knee osteoarthritis (N=50; aged 51-80y) were randomly assigned to the HA group (n=27) or the TENS group (n=23). The HA group received intra-articular HA injection into the affected knee once a week for 5 consecutive weeks, and the TENS group received a 20- minute session of TENS 3 times a week for 4 consecutive weeks. The primary outcome measures used were the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Lequesne index. The secondary outcome measures were range of motion of the knee, walking time, pain threshold, patient global assessment, and disability in activities of daily living. All subjects were assessed at baseline, and at 2 weeks, 2 months, and 3 months after the treatments were completed. The TENS group exhibited a significantly greater improvement in VAS than the HA group at 2 weeks' follow-up (4.17 ± 1.98 vs 5.31 ± 1.78, respectively; P=.03). In addition, the TENS group also exhibited a significantly greater improvement in the Lequesne index than the HA group at 2 weeks' follow-up (7.78 ± 2.08 vs 9.85 ± 3.54, respectively; P=.01) and at 3 months' follow-up (7.07 ± 2.85 vs 9.24 ± 4.04, respectively; P=.03). TENS with silver spike point electrodes was observed to be more effective than intra-articular HA injection for patients with knee osteoarthritis in improving the VAS for pain at 2 weeks' follow-up as well as the Lequesne index at 2 weeks' and 3 months' follow-up. Copyright © 2013 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Comparative studies of various hyaluronic acids produced by microbial fermentation for potential topical ophthalmic applications.

    PubMed

    Guillaumie, Fanny; Furrer, Pascal; Felt-Baeyens, Olivia; Fuhlendorff, Birgit L; Nymand, Søren; Westh, Peter; Gurny, Robert; Schwach-Abdellaoui, Khadija

    2010-03-15

    This work presents a comparative study of various hyaluronic acids (HA) produced by fermentation of either Bacillus subtilis or Streptococcus towards the selection of an optimal molecular weight (MW) HA for the preparation of topical ophthalmic formulations. The influence of HA MW on water binding capacity, sterile filtration, rheological properties, precorneal residence time and ocular tolerance of ophthalmic solutions was investigated. Molecular weight did not affect hydration of hyaluronic acid according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In general, medium MW HA (0.6-1 MDa) resulted in solutions that were superior in terms of sterile filtration and kinematic viscosity requirements compared to high MW HA (>1 MDa). Moreover, all HA-based solutions exhibited well-defined viscoelastic properties that depend on MW. Gamma scintigraphic data indicated that HA MW at 0.1% concentration (w/v) and HA origin did not significantly affect the corneal residence time on rabbit eyes. A 0.3% solution of high MW HA had a prolonged residence time in the precorneal area compared to a medium MW HA at the same concentration. Finally, an in vivo ocular irritation test based on confocal laser scanning ophthalmoscopy (CLSO) conclusively showed the excellent tolerance of both Bacillus-derived HA and Streptococcus-derived HA after topical instillation onto the corneal surface. Overall, this comprehensive work highlights the superiority of medium MW hyaluronic acid for topical ophthalmic formulations based on their physico-chemical and biological properties, tolerance and handling. Such solutions are expected to enhance tear film stability, to allow for maximum comfort, and to exhibit high residence times, while being biocompatible and easy to sterile filter. (c) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  14. Evolution and outcomes of a quality improvement program.

    PubMed

    Thor, Johan; Herrlin, Bo; Wittlöv, Karin; Øvretveit, John; Brommels, Mats

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of this paper is to examine the outcomes and evolution over a five-year period of a Swedish university hospital quality improvement program in light of enduring uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of such programs in healthcare and how best to evaluate it. The paper takes the form of a case study, using data collected as part of the program, including quality indicators from clinical improvement projects and participants' program evaluations. Overall, 58 percent of the program's projects (39/67) demonstrated success. A greater proportion of projects led by female doctors demonstrated success (91 percent, n=11) than projects led by male doctors (51 percent, n=55). Facilitators at the hospital continuously adapted the improvement methods to the local context. A lack of dedicated time for improvement efforts was the participants' biggest difficulty. The dominant benefits included an increased ability to see the "bigger picture" and the improvements achieved for patients and employees. Quality measurement, which is important for conducting and evaluating improvement efforts, was weak with limited reliability. Nevertheless, the present study adds evidence about the effectiveness of healthcare improvement programs. Gender differences in improvement team leadership merit further study. Improvement program evaluation should assess the extent to which improvement methods are locally adapted and applied. This case study reports the outcomes of all improvement projects undertaken in one healthcare organization over a five-year period and provides in-depth insight into an improvement program's changeable nature.

  15. Genistein and daidzein stimulate hyaluronic acid production in transformed human keratinocyte culture and hairless mouse skin.

    PubMed

    Miyazaki, Kouji; Hanamizu, Tomoko; Iizuka, Ryoko; Chiba, Katsuyoshi

    2002-01-01

    We examined the effects of the soy isoflavones genistein (Gen) and daidzein (Dai) on the production of hyaluronic acid (HA) in a transformed human keratinocyte culture and in hairless mouse skin following topical application for 2 weeks. Gen and Dai, but not the glycosides thereof, significantly enhanced the production of HA in vitro and in vivo. Histochemistry using an HA-binding protein revealed that topical Gen and estradiol raised both the density and intensity of HA staining, which was abundant in the murine dermis. It is suggested that Gen and Dai are not released from their respective glycosides in culture or murine skin. Moreover, topical Gen and Dai may prevent and improve the cutaneous alterations caused by the loss of HA in skin. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

  16. Hyaluronic acid-coated liposomes for targeted delivery of paclitaxel, in-vitro characterization and in-vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Ravar, Fatemeh; Saadat, Ebrahim; Gholami, Mehdi; Dehghankelishadi, Pouya; Mahdavi, Mehdi; Azami, Samira; Dorkoosh, Farid A

    2016-05-10

    Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women. Chemotherapy is regarded as the most essential strategy in inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells. Paclitaxel is a widely used taxane; however, the side effects of available Cremophor-based formulations and also the limitations of passive targeting uncovered an essential need to develop tumor-specific targeted nanocarriers. A hyaluronic acid targeted liposomal formulation of paclitaxel was prepared in which, hyaluronic acid was electrostatistically attracted to the surface of liposomes. Liposomes, had a particle size of 106.4±3.2nm, a weakly negative zeta potential of -9.7±0.8mV and an acceptable encapsulation efficiency of 92.1±1.7%. The release profile of liposomes in buffer showed that 95% of PTX was released during 40h. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry analysis showed the greater cellular internalization of coumarin-loaded liposomes compared to free coumarin. MTT assay on 4T1 and T47D cells demonstrated the stronger cytotoxic activity of liposomes in comparison to free paclitaxel. Cell cycle analysis showed that cells were mainly blocked at G2/M phases after 48h treatment with liposomes. In vivo real time imaging on 4T1 tumor-bearing mice revealed that the liposomal formulation mainly accumulated in the tumor area. Liposomes also had better antitumor efficacy against Cremophor-based formulation. In conclusion, hyaluronic acid targeted paclitaxel liposome can serve as a promising targeted formulation of paclitaxel for future cancer chemotherapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Improving cognitive outcomes for pediatric stroke.

    PubMed

    Greenham, Mardee; Anderson, Vicki; Mackay, Mark T

    2017-04-01

    The past 20 years have seen a 35% increase in prevalence of pediatric stroke. Contrary to widely held views, children do not recover better than adults. This review explores the impact of pediatric stroke on cognitive domains, including intellectual and executive functions, memory and behavior, and the influence of age, lesion characteristics, and comorbidities on outcome. Cognitive problems occur in up to half of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke survivors. Single-center studies have shown intelligence quotient scores skewed to the lower end of the average range, with greater impairment in performance than verbal domains. Executive function, such as attention and processing speed are particularly vulnerable to the effects of pediatric stroke. Age at stroke, larger infarct size, cortical/subcortical lesion location, epilepsy, and comorbid physical deficits are associated with poorer cognitive outcomes. Cognitive impairment occurs relatively frequently following pediatric stroke but the nature, severity, and predictors of specific deficits are not well defined. Improving understanding of outcomes following pediatric stroke is a key priority for families but a paucity of data limits the ability to develop targeted disease, and age-specific pediatric rehabilitation strategies to optimize cognitive outcomes following pediatric stroke.

  18. Efficacy of hyaluronic acid spray on swelling, pain, and trismus after surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars.

    PubMed

    Koray, M; Ofluoglu, D; Onal, E A; Ozgul, M; Ersev, H; Yaltirik, M; Tanyeri, H

    2014-11-01

    The aim of this study was compare the efficacies of two oral sprays in reducing swelling, pain, and trismus after the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. This prospective double-blind, randomized, crossover clinical trial included 34 patients with bilateral symmetrically impacted mandibular third molars of similar surgical difficulty. Hyaluronic acid or benzydamine hydrochloride spray was applied (two pumps) to the extraction area, three times daily for 7 days. Swelling was evaluated using a tape measure method, pain with a visual analogue scale (VAS), and trismus by measuring the maximum inter-incisal opening. Assessments were made on the day of surgery and on days 2 and 7 after surgery. Statistically significant differences were detected for the swelling and trismus values between the two treatment groups on the second postoperative day (P=0.002 and P=0.03, respectively). However, there was no statistically significant difference in VAS scores between the two groups. The administration of hyaluronic acid spray was more effective than benzydamine hydrochloride spray in reducing swelling and trismus. Although no evidence of a reduction in pain levels was detected, hyaluronic acid appears to offer a beneficial effect in the management of swelling and trismus during the immediate postoperative period following impacted third molar surgery. Copyright © 2014 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Can combined use of low-level lasers and hyaluronic acid injections prolong the longevity of degenerative knee joints?

    PubMed Central

    Ip, David; Fu, Nga Yue

    2015-01-01

    Background This study evaluated whether half-yearly hyaluronic acid injection together with low-level laser therapy in addition to standard conventional physical therapy can successfully postpone the need for joint replacement surgery in elderly patients with bilateral symptomatic tricompartmental knee arthritis. Methods In this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 70 consecutive unselected elderly patients with bilateral tricompartmental knee arthritis were assigned at random to either one of two conservative treatment protocols to either one of the painful knees. Protocol A consisted of conventional physical therapy plus a sham light source plus saline injection, and protocol B consisted of protocol A with addition of half-yearly hyaluronic acid injection as well as low-level laser treatment instead of using saline and a sham light source. Treatment failure was defined as breakthrough pain necessitating joint replacement. Results Among the 140 painful knees treated with either protocol A or protocol B, only one of the 70 painful knees treated by protocol B required joint replacement, whereas 15 of the 70 painful knees treated by protocol A needed joint replacement surgery (P<0.05). Conclusion We conclude that half-yearly hyaluronic acid injections together with low-level laser therapy should be incorporated into the standard conservative treatment protocol for symptomatic knee arthritis, because it may prolong the longevity of the knee joint without the need for joint replacement. PMID:26346122

  20. In vivo engineering of the vocal fold extracellular matrix with injectable hyaluronic acid hydrogels: early effects on tissue repair and biomechanics in a rabbit model.

    PubMed

    Hansen, Jennifer K; Thibeault, Susan L; Walsh, Jennifer F; Shu, Xiao Zheng; Prestwich, Glenn D

    2005-09-01

    A prospective, controlled animal study was performed to determine whether the use of injectable, chemically modified hyaluronic acid (HA) derivatives at the time of intentional vocal fold resection might facilitate wound repair and preserve the unique viscoelastic properties of the vocal fold extracellular matrix. We performed bilateral vocal fold biopsies on 33 rabbits. Two groups of rabbits were unilaterally treated with 2 different HA derivatives--Carbylan-SX and HA-DTPH-PEGDA--at the time of resection. Saline was injected as a control into the contralateral fold. The animals were painlessly sacrificed 3 weeks after biopsy and injection. The outcomes measured included histologic fibrosis level, tissue HA level, and tissue viscosity and elasticity. The Carbylan-SX-treated vocal folds were found to have significantly less fibrosis than the saline-treated controls. The levels of HA in the treated vocal folds were not significantly different from those in the controls at 3 weeks as measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The Carbylan-SX-treated vocal folds had significantly improved biomechanical properties of elasticity and viscosity. The HA-DTPH-PEGDA injections yielded significantly improved viscosity, but not elasticity. Prophylactic in vivo manipulation of the extracellular matrix with an injectable Carbylan-SX hydrogel appears to induce vocal fold tissue regeneration to yield optimal tissue composition and biomechanical properties favorable for phonation.

  1. Morphological changes of bladder mucosa in patients who underwent instillation with combined sodium hyaluronic acid-chondroitin sulphate (Ialuril®).

    PubMed

    Costantini, E; Lazzeri, M; Pistolesi, D; Del Zingaro, M; Frumenzio, E; Boni, A; Pietropaolo, A; Fragalà, E; Porena, M

    2013-01-01

    To investigate what changes are endoscopically evident after glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) therapy by hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulphate (CS) (Ialuril®) in female patients affected by bladder pain syndrome(BPS)/ interstitial cystitis (IC) or recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs). 21 female patients over 18 years affected by rUTIs or BPS/IC received intravesical instillation of HA and CS (4 weekly instillations followed by 2 instillations every 2 weeks and 2 instillation monthly). Post-treatment evaluation included cystoscopy and patient assessment of improvement in symptoms and satisfaction on a visual analogue scale (VAS) from 0 to 10. The post-treatment endoscopy showed a positive effect on bladder mucosa morphology. In 2 cases, treatment did not change endoscopic findings and clinical symptoms. In the other patients, when macroscopic features of the bladder mucosa normalized, the clinical picture improved. GAGs therapy by HA and CS (Ialuril) improves the morphology of bladder mucosa in patients with rUTI or BPS/IC. Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  2. Lean Participative Process Improvement: Outcomes and Obstacles in Trauma Orthopaedics

    PubMed Central

    New, Steve; Hadi, Mohammed; Pickering, Sharon; Robertson, Eleanor; Morgan, Lauren; Griffin, Damian; Collins, Gary; Rivero-Arias, Oliver; Catchpole, Ken; McCulloch, Peter

    2016-01-01

    Objectives To examine the effectiveness of a “systems” approach using Lean methodology to improve surgical care, as part of a programme of studies investigating possible synergy between improvement approaches. Setting A controlled before-after study using the orthopaedic trauma theatre of a UK Trust hospital as the active site and an elective orthopaedic theatre in the same Trust as control. Participants All staff involved in surgical procedures in both theatres. Interventions A one-day “lean” training course delivered by an experienced specialist team was followed by support and assistance in developing a 6 month improvement project. Clinical staff selected the subjects for improvement and designed the improvements. Outcome Measures We compared technical and non-technical team performance in theatre using WHO checklist compliance evaluation, “glitch count” and Oxford NOTECHS II in a sample of directly observed operations, and patient outcome (length of stay, complications and readmissions) for all patients. We collected observational data for 3 months and clinical data for 6 months before and after the intervention period. We compared changes in measures using 2-way analysis of variance. Results We studied 576 cases before and 465 after intervention, observing the operation in 38 and 41 cases respectively. We found no significant changes in team performance or patient outcome measures. The intervention theatre staff focused their efforts on improving first patient arrival time, which improved by 20 minutes after intervention. Conclusions This version of “lean” system improvement did not improve measured safety processes or outcomes. The study highlighted an important tension between promoting staff ownership and providing direction, which needs to be managed in “lean” projects. Space and time for staff to conduct improvement activities are important for success. PMID:27124012

  3. Single-arm open-label study of Durolane (NASHA nonanimal hyaluronic acid) for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the thumb

    PubMed Central

    Velasco, Eloisa; Ribera, Mª Victoria; Pi, Joan

    2017-01-01

    Introduction Osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint of the thumb – also known as rhizarthrosis – is painful and has a significant impact on quality of life. Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid may potentially meet the need for effective, minimally invasive intervention in patients not responding adequately to initial treatment. We aimed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of viscosupplementation with Durolane (NASHA nonanimal hyaluronic acid) in rhizarthrosis. Patients and methods This was a prospective, single-arm, multicenter, open-label study with a 6-month follow-up period. Eligible patients had Eaton–Littler grade II–III rhizarthrosis in one TMC joint with pain and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score ≥4 (scale: 0–10). A single injection of NASHA was administered to the affected TMC joint. The primary effectiveness variable was change from baseline in VAS pain score. Results Thirty-five patients (mean age 60.8 years; 85.7% female) received NASHA and completed the study. The least-squares mean change from baseline in VAS pain score over 6 months was −2.00, a reduction of 27.8% (p<0.001). The reduction in pain exceeded 25% as early as month 1 (26.5%), and gradual improvement was observed throughout the 6-month follow-up period. Secondary effectiveness parameters included QuickDASH (shortened version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH]), Kapandji thumb opposition test, radial abduction, metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint flexion, and pinch (clamp) strength. Most of these measurements showed statistically significant improvements from baseline over 6 months. Five adverse events (injection site reactions) were reported in four patients (11.4%), and there were no serious or allergic reactions. Conclusion This study suggests that viscosupplementation using NASHA is effective and well tolerated in treating the symptoms of rhizarthrosis. PMID:28392718

  4. Single-arm open-label study of Durolane (NASHA nonanimal hyaluronic acid) for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the thumb.

    PubMed

    Velasco, Eloisa; Ribera, Mª Victoria; Pi, Joan

    2017-01-01

    Osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint of the thumb - also known as rhizarthrosis - is painful and has a significant impact on quality of life. Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid may potentially meet the need for effective, minimally invasive intervention in patients not responding adequately to initial treatment. We aimed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of viscosupplementation with Durolane (NASHA nonanimal hyaluronic acid) in rhizarthrosis. This was a prospective, single-arm, multicenter, open-label study with a 6-month follow-up period. Eligible patients had Eaton-Littler grade II-III rhizarthrosis in one TMC joint with pain and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score ≥4 (scale: 0-10). A single injection of NASHA was administered to the affected TMC joint. The primary effectiveness variable was change from baseline in VAS pain score. Thirty-five patients (mean age 60.8 years; 85.7% female) received NASHA and completed the study. The least-squares mean change from baseline in VAS pain score over 6 months was -2.00, a reduction of 27.8% ( p <0.001). The reduction in pain exceeded 25% as early as month 1 (26.5%), and gradual improvement was observed throughout the 6-month follow-up period. Secondary effectiveness parameters included QuickDASH (shortened version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH]), Kapandji thumb opposition test, radial abduction, metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint flexion, and pinch (clamp) strength. Most of these measurements showed statistically significant improvements from baseline over 6 months. Five adverse events (injection site reactions) were reported in four patients (11.4%), and there were no serious or allergic reactions. This study suggests that viscosupplementation using NASHA is effective and well tolerated in treating the symptoms of rhizarthrosis.

  5. Improving outcomes of first‐episode psychosis: an overview

    PubMed Central

    Fusar‐Poli, Paolo; McGorry, Patrick D.; Kane, John M.

    2017-01-01

    Outcomes of psychotic disorders are associated with high personal, familiar, societal and clinical burden. There is thus an urgent clinical and societal need for improving those outcomes. Recent advances in research knowledge have opened new opportunities for ameliorating outcomes of psychosis during its early clinical stages. This paper critically reviews these opportunities, summarizing the state‐of‐the‐art knowledge and focusing on recent discoveries and future avenues for first episode research and clinical interventions. Candidate targets for primary universal prevention of psychosis at the population level are discussed. Potentials offered by primary selective prevention in asymptomatic subgroups (stage 0) are presented. Achievements of primary selected prevention in individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis (stage 1) are summarized, along with challenges and limitations of its implementation in clinical practice. Early intervention and secondary prevention strategies at the time of a first episode of psychosis (stage 2) are critically discussed, with a particular focus on minimizing the duration of untreated psychosis, improving treatment response, increasing patients’ satisfaction with treatment, reducing illicit substance abuse and preventing relapses. Early intervention and tertiary prevention strategies at the time of an incomplete recovery (stage 3) are further discussed, in particular with respect to addressing treatment resistance, improving well‐being and social skills with reduction of burden on the family, treatment of comorbid substance use, and prevention of multiple relapses and disease progression. In conclusion, to improve outcomes of a complex, heterogeneous syndrome such as psychosis, it is necessary to globally adopt complex models integrating a clinical staging framework and coordinated specialty care programmes that offer pre‐emptive interventions to high‐risk groups identified across the early stages of the disorder

  6. The theory of music, mood and movement to improve health outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Murrock, Carolyn J.; Higgins, Patricia A.

    2013-01-01

    Aim This paper presents a discussion of the development of a middle-range nursing theory of the effects of music on physical activity and improved health outcomes. Background Due to the high rate of physical inactivity and the associated negative health outcomes worldwide, nurses need new evidence-based theories and interventions to increase physical activity. Data sources The theory of music, mood and movement (MMM) was developed from physical activity guidelines and music theory using the principles of statement and theory synthesis. The concepts of music, physical activity and health outcomes were searched using the CINAHL, MEDLINE, ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health Source, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library databases covering the years 1975–2008. Discussion The theory of MMM was synthesized by combining the psychological and physiological responses of music to increase physical activity and improve health outcomes. It proposes that music alters mood, is a cue for movement, and makes physical activity more enjoyable leading to improved health outcomes of weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cardiovascular risk factor management, and improved quality of life. Conclusion As it was developed from the physical activity guidelines, the middle-range theory is prescriptive, produces testable hypotheses, and can guide nursing research and practice. The middle-range theory needs to be tested to determine its usefulness for nurses to develop physical activity programmes to improve health outcomes across various cultures. PMID:20568327

  7. Effect of Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid Injection on Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain After Stroke.

    PubMed

    Jang, Myung Hun; Lee, Chang-Hyung; Shin, Yong-Il; Kim, Soo-Yeon; Huh, Sung Chul

    2016-10-01

    To evaluate the efficacy of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IAHA) injection for hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) after stroke. Thirty-one patients with HSP and limited range of motion (ROM) without spasticity of upper extremity were recruited. All subjects were randomly allocated to group A (n=15) for three weekly IAHA injection or group B (n=16) for a single intra-articular steroid (IAS) injection. All injections were administered by an expert physician until the 8th week using a posterior ultrasonography-guided approach. Shoulder joint pain was measured using the Wong-Baker Scale (WBS), while passive ROM was measured in the supine position by an expert physician. There were no significant intergroup differences in WBS or ROM at the 8th week. Improvements in forward flexion and external rotation were observed from the 4th week in the IAHA group and the 8th week in the IAS group. Subjects experienced a statistically significant improvement in pain from the 1st week in the IAS and from the 8th week in IAHA group, respectively. IAHA seems to have a less potent ability to reduce movement pain compared to steroid in the early period. However, there was no statistically significant intergroup difference in WBS and ROM improvements at the 8th week. IAHA might be a good alternative to steroid for managing HSP when the use of steroid is limited.

  8. A hyaluronic acid nanogel for photo-chemo theranostics of lung cancer with simultaneous light-responsive controlled release of doxorubicin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khatun, Zehedina; Nurunnabi, Md; Nafiujjaman, Md; Reeck, Gerald R.; Khan, Haseeb A.; Cho, Kwang Jae; Lee, Yong-Kyu

    2015-06-01

    The combined delivery of photo- and chemo-therapeutic agents is an emerging strategy to overcome drug resistance in treating cancer, and controlled light-responsive drug release is a proven tactic to produce a continuous therapeutic effect for a prolonged duration. Here, a combination of light-responsive graphene, chemo-agent doxorubicin and pH-sensitive disulfide-bond linked hyaluronic acid form a nanogel (called a graphene-doxorubicin conjugate in a hyaluronic acid nanogel) that exerts an activity with multiple effects: thermo and chemotherapeutic, real-time noninvasive imaging, and light-glutathione-responsive controlled drug release. The nanogel is mono-dispersed with an average diameter of 120 nm as observed by using TEM and a hydrodynamic size analyzer. It has excellent photo-luminescence properties and good stability in buffer and serum solutions. Graphene itself, being photoluminescent, can be considered an optical imaging contrast agent as well as a heat source when excited by laser irradiation. Thus the nanogel shows simultaneous thermo-chemotherapeutic effects on noninvasive optical imaging. We have also found that irradiation enhances the release of doxorubicin in a controlled manner. This release synergizes therapeutic activity of the nanogel in killing tumor cells. Our findings demonstrate that the graphene-doxorubicin conjugate in the hyaluronic acid nanogel is very effective in killing the human lung cancer cell line (A549) with limited toxicity in the non-cancerous cell line (MDCK).The combined delivery of photo- and chemo-therapeutic agents is an emerging strategy to overcome drug resistance in treating cancer, and controlled light-responsive drug release is a proven tactic to produce a continuous therapeutic effect for a prolonged duration. Here, a combination of light-responsive graphene, chemo-agent doxorubicin and pH-sensitive disulfide-bond linked hyaluronic acid form a nanogel (called a graphene-doxorubicin conjugate in a hyaluronic acid

  9. Hyaluronic acid increases tendon derived cell viability and collagen type I expression in vitro: Comparative study of four different Hyaluronic acid preparations by molecular weight.

    PubMed

    Osti, Leonardo; Berardocco, Martina; di Giacomo, Viviana; Di Bernardo, Graziella; Oliva, Francesco; Berardi, Anna C

    2015-10-06

    Hyaluronic Acid (HA) has been already approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for osteoarthritis (OA), while its use in the treatment of tendinopathy is still debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate in human rotator cuff tendon derived cells the effects of four different HA on cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis and the expression of collagen type I and collagen type III. An in vitro model was developed on human tendon derived cells from rotator cuff tears to study the effects of four different HA preparations (Ps) (sodium hyaluronate MW: 500-730 KDa - Hyalgan®, 1000 kDa Artrosulfur HA®, 1600 KDa Hyalubrix® and 2200 KDa Synolis-VA®) at various concentrations. Tendon derived cells morphology were evaluated after 0, 7 and 14 d of culture. Viability, proliferation, apoptosis were evaluated after 0, 24 and 48 h of culture. The expression and deposition of collagen type I and collagen type III were evaluated after 1, 7 and 14 d of culture. All HAPs tested increased viability and proliferation, in dose dependent manner. HAPs already reduce apoptosis at 24 h compared to control cells (without HAPs). Furthermore, HAPs stimulated the synthesis of collagen type I in a dose dependent fashion over 14 d, without increase in collagen type III; moreover, in the presence of Synolis-VA® the expression and deposition of collagen type I was significantly higher as compare with the other HAPs. HAPs enhanced viability, proliferation and expression of collagen type I in tendon derived cells.

  10. Three-dimensional remodeling of young Asian women's faces using 20-mg/ml smooth, highly cohesive, viscous hyaluronic acid fillers: a retrospective study of 320 patients.

    PubMed

    Bae, Jung Min; Lee, Dong Won

    2013-09-01

    Because Asian faces are generally flatter than Caucasian faces, Asian women are increasingly requesting facial volume enhancement. To clarify the effectiveness and safety of a volumizing treatment using 20-mg/mL smooth, highly cohesive, viscous hyaluronic acid fillers in young Asian women. We retrospectively reviewed 320 patients who had been treated with this filler from March 2010 to February 2012. The filler was injected in the shape of a diamond to the glabella, both malar eminences, and chin. Overall, 4 to 6 mL of filler was sufficient to enhance the volume of a face in young Asian women. Both the physicians and patients rated effectiveness on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale at week 4. Need for touch-up and any adverse events were also evaluated. Most patients were very satisfied with this volumizing procedure, and there were no major complications. The 20-mg/mL smooth, highly cohesive, viscous hyaluronic acid filler is an effective, well-tolerated treatment option in young Asian women wishing for a more-three-dimensional profile. © 2013 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  11. Hyaluronic Acid/Collagen Hydrogel as an Alternative to Alginate for Long-Term Immunoprotected Islet Transplantation.

    PubMed

    Harrington, Stephen; Williams, Janette; Rawal, Sonia; Ramachandran, Karthik; Stehno-Bittel, Lisa

    2017-10-01

    Alginate has long been the material of choice for immunoprotection of islets due to its low cost and ability to easily form microspheres. Unfortunately, this seaweed-derived material is notoriously prone to fibrotic overgrowth in vivo, resulting in premature graft failure. The purpose of this study was to test an alternative, hyaluronic acid (HA-COL), for in vitro function, viability, and allogeneic islet transplant outcomes in diabetic rats. In vitro studies indicated that the HA-COL gel had diffusion characteristics that would allow small molecules such as glucose and insulin to enter and exit the gel, whereas larger molecules (70 and 500 kDa dextrans) were impeded from diffusing past the gel edge in 24 h. Islets encapsulated in HA-COL hydrogel showed significantly improved in vitro viability over unencapsulated islets and retained their morphology and glucose sensitivity for 28 days. When unencapsulated allogeneic islet transplants were administered to the omentum of outbred rats, they initially were normoglycemic, but by 11 days returned to hyperglycemia. Immunohistological examination of the grafts and surrounding tissue indicated strong graft rejection. By comparison, when using the same outbred strain of rats, allogeneic transplantation of islets within the HA-COL gel reversed long-term diabetes and prevented graft rejection in all animals. Animals were sacrificed at 40, 52, 64, and 80 weeks for evaluation, and all were non-diabetic at sacrifice. Explanted grafts revealed viable islets in the transplant site as well as intact hydrogel, with little or no evidence of fibrotic overgrowth or cellular rejection. The results of these studies demonstrate great potential for HA-COL hydrogel as an alternative to sodium alginate for long-term immunoprotected islet transplantation.

  12. Efficacy and safety of repeated courses of hyaluronic acid injections for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review.

    PubMed

    Altman, Roy; Hackel, Josh; Niazi, Faizan; Shaw, Peter; Nicholls, Mathew

    2018-01-31

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a commonly prescribed intra-articular (IA) therapy for knee osteoarthritis (OA). While a single series of IA-HA has been well studied, the efficacy and safety of repeated courses of IA-HA injection therapy in knee OA patients have not been evaluated as frequently. A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed databases. The primary outcome measure was knee pain reduction after each treatment course and/or last reported follow-up visit. Secondary outcomes were treatment-related adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs). A total of 17 articles (7 RCTs and 10 cohort studies) met the pre-defined inclusion criteria. Of the RCTs, six were double-blind with two trials including open label extension studies, and one was single-blind. Studies ranged from investigating a single reinjection cycle to four repeat injection cycles. Eleven studies evaluated one reinjection, five studies evaluated ≥2 repeated courses of IA-HA, and one study allowed either one or two repeated courses. All studies reported pain reduction from baseline in the IA-HA treatment group throughout the initial treatment cycle, and either sustained or further reduced pain throughout the repeated courses of treatment. The study with the longest follow-up repeated IA-HA injection every 6 months for 25 months. Pain decreased after the first course and continued to decrease until the end of the study, with an approximate 55% reduction in pain compared to baseline. Common AEs were joint swelling and arthralgia; there were no reported SAEs. All repeated courses were well tolerated, and the number of documented AEs and SAEs was similar to the primary injection regimens. Repeated courses of IA-HA injections are an effective and safe treatment for knee OA. Repeat courses were demonstrated to maintain or further improve pain reduction while introducing no increased safety risk. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Synthesis and radiosensitization properties of hydrogen peroxide and sodium hyaluronate complex

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rosli, Nur Ratasha Alia Md.; Mohamed, Faizal; Heng, Cheong Kai

    2014-09-03

    Cancer cells which are large in size are resistant towards radiation therapy due to the presence of large amount of anti-oxidative enzymes and hypoxic cancer cells. Thus radiosensitizer agents have been developed to enhance the therapeutic effect of radiotherapy by increasing the sensitivity of these cancer cells towards radiation. This study is conducted to investigate the radiosensitization properties of radiosensitizer complex containing hydrogen peroxide and sodium hyaluronate. Combination with sodium hyaluronate may decrease reactivity of hydrogen peroxide but maintain the oxygen concentration needed for radiosensitizing effect. HepG2 cancer cells are cultured as the mean of test subject. Cancer cell samplesmore » which are targeted and not targeted with these radiosensitizers are irradiated with 2Gy single fractionated dose. Results obtained shows that the cancer cells which are not targeted with radiosensitizers has a cell viability of 98.80±0.37% after a time interval of 48 hours and has even repopulated over 100% after a 72 hour time interval. This shows that the cancer cells are resistant towards radiation. However, when the cancer cells are targeted with radiosensitizers prior to irradiation, there is a reduction of cell viability by 25.50±10.81% and 10.30±5.10% at time intervals of 48 and 72 hours respectively. This indicates that through the use of these radiosensitizers, cancer cells are more sensitive towards radiation.« less

  14. Single center experience with endoscopic subureteral dextranomer/hyaluronic acid injection as first line treatment in 1,551 children with intermediate and high grade vesicoureteral reflux.

    PubMed

    Puri, Prem; Kutasy, Balazs; Colhoun, Eric; Hunziker, Manuela

    2012-10-01

    In recent years the endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid has become an established alternative to long-term antibiotic prophylaxis and the surgical management of vesicoureteral reflux. We determined the safety and effectiveness of the endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid as first line treatment for high grade vesicoureteral reflux. Between 2001 and 2010, 1,551 children (496 male, 1,055 female, median age 1.6 years) underwent endoscopic correction of intermediate and high grade vesicoureteral reflux using dextranomer/hyaluronic acid soon after the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux on initial voiding cystourethrogram. Vesicoureteral reflux was unilateral in 761 children and bilateral in 790. Renal scarring was detected in 369 (26.7%) of the 1,384 patients who underwent dimercapto-succinic acid imaging. Reflux grade in the 2,341 ureters was II in 98 (4.2%), III in 1,340 (57.3%), IV in 818 (34.9%) and V in 85 (3.6%). Followup ultrasound and voiding cystourethrogram were performed 3 months after the outpatient procedure, and renal ultrasound was performed annually thereafter. Patients were followed for 3 months to 10 years (median 5.6 years). Vesicoureteral reflux resolved after the first, second and third endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in 2,039 (87.1%), 264 (11.3%) and 38 (1.6%) ureters, respectively. Febrile urinary tract infections developed during followup in 69 (4.6%) patients. None of the patients in the series needed reimplantation of ureters or experienced any significant complications. Our results confirm the safety and efficacy of the endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in the eradication of high grade vesicoureteral reflux. We recommend this 15-minute outpatient procedure as the first line of treatment for high grade vesicoureteral reflux. Copyright © 2012 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. The efficacy of multiple versus single hyaluronic acid injections: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Concoff, Andrew; Sancheti, Parag; Niazi, Faizan; Shaw, Peter; Rosen, Jeffrey

    2017-12-21

    Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IA-HA) is a common therapy used to treat knee pain and suppress knee inflammation in knee osteoarthritis (OA), typically prescribed in regimens ranging from a single injection to 5 weekly injections given once weekly. We conducted a systematic review to determine the efficacy of IA-HA, with subgroup analyses to explore the differences in knee pain and adverse events (AEs) across different dosing regimens. We conducted a systematic search of the literature to identify studies evaluating IA-HA for the management of knee OA compared to IA-saline. Primary outcome measure was the mean knee pain score at 13 Weeks (3 months) or 26 weeks (6 months). Secondary outcome was the number of treatment-related AEs and treatment-related serious adverse events (SAEs). We evaluated differences in levels of pain and AEs/SAEs between dosing regimens compared to IA-Saline. Thirty articles were included. Overall, IA-HA injections were associated with less knee pain compared to IA-Saline injections for all dosing regimens. 2-4 injections of IA-HA vs. IA-Saline produced the largest effect size at both 3-months and 6-months (Standard mean difference [SMD] = -0.76; -0.98 to -0.53, 95% CI, P < 0.00001, and SMD = -0.36; -0.63 to -0.09 95% CI, P = 0.008, respectively). Additionally, single injection studies yielded a non-significant treatment effect at 3 and 6 months, while ≥5 5 injections demonstrated a significant improvement in pain only at 6 months. Five or more injections of IA-HA were associated with a higher risk of treatment-related AEs compared to IA-Saline (Risk ratio [RR] = 1.67; 1.09 to 2.56 95% CI, p = 0.02), which was a result not seen within the 1 and 2-4 injection subgroups. Overall, 2-4 and ≥5 injection regimens provided pain relief over IA-Saline, while single injection did not. Intra-articular injections of HA used in a 2-4 injection treatment regimen provided the greatest benefit when compared to IA

  16. [Recurrent urinary tract infections: prevention of recurrence with intravesical instillations of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Tornero Ruiz, Jesús Ignacio; Martínez Gómez, Gloria; Escudero Bregante, José Félix; Gómez Gómez, Guillermo Antonio

    2017-03-01

    The aim of our study is to demonstrate that intravesical administration of the association chondroitin sulfate (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA), according to our treatment schedule, is a benefit for women with recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTI), not only from a clinical point of view, but also reducing recurrences. This is a study of 28 women diagnosed with RUTI, with a positive culture, and compatible symptoms;frethey underwent treatment according to the protocol of intravesical instillations of the combination CS 2%-1 gr + HA 1.6%-800 mg. To evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment, symptoms improvement, reduction of the number of episodes of urinary tract infection and quality of life were considered. In our series, we can observe an improvement of the quality of life assessed by PG-I, 66% after 12 months. It was seen that 55.6% of the patient's urine cultures became negative, while 44.4% had episodes of urinary infection, but with lower baseline symptoms intensity. Patients included in the protocol of instillation improved significantly their quality of life; in addition, to a considerable extent new urinary infections were not presented, being milder when they presented.

  17. Development of curcumin loaded sodium hyaluronate immobilized vesicles (hyalurosomes) and their potential on skin inflammation and wound restoring.

    PubMed

    Manca, M L; Castangia, I; Zaru, M; Nácher, A; Valenti, D; Fernàndez-Busquets, X; Fadda, A M; Manconi, M

    2015-12-01

    In the present work new highly biocompatible nanovesicles were developed using polyanion sodium hyaluronate to form polymer immobilized vesicles, so called hyalurosomes. Curcumin, at high concentration was loaded into hyalurosomes and physico-chemical properties and in vitro/in vivo performances of the formulations were compared to those of liposomes having the same lipid and drug content. Vesicles were prepared by direct addition of dispersion containing the polysaccharide sodium hyaluronate and the polyphenol curcumin to a commercial mixture of soy phospholipids, thus avoiding the use of organic solvents. An extensive study was carried out on the physico-chemical features and properties of curcumin-loaded hyalurosomes and liposomes. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering showed that vesicles were spherical, uni- or oligolamellar and small in size (112-220 nm). The in vitro percutaneous curcumin delivery studies on intact skin showed an improved ability of hyalurosomes to favour a fast drug deposition in the whole skin. Hyalurosomes as well as liposomes were biocompatible, protected in vitro human keratinocytes from oxidative stress damages and promoted tissue remodelling through cellular proliferation and migration. Moreover, in vivo tests underlined a good effectiveness of curcumin-loaded hyalurosomes to counteract 12-O-tetradecanoilphorbol (TPA)-produced inflammation and injuries, diminishing oedema formation, myeloperoxydase activity and providing an extensive skin reepithelization. Thanks to the one-step and environmentally-friendly preparation method, component biocompatibility and safety, good in vitro and in vivo performances, the hyalurosomes appear as promising nanocarriers for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Randomized, Evaluator-Blinded Study Comparing Safety and Effect of Two Hyaluronic Acid Gels for Lips Enhancement.

    PubMed

    Hilton, Said; Sattler, Gerhard; Berg, Anna-Karin; Samuelson, Ulf; Wong, Cindy

    2018-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers may differ in terms of gel characteristics and ease of use and it is of interest whether this might affect safety and duration of effect. To compare the long-term safety and effect of 2 HA fillers produced by 2 different technologies for lip enhancement. Subjects with very thin to moderately thick lips were randomized and treated with HA-RK (N = 31) or HA-JV (N = 29) to improve lip fullness by ≥ 1 grade on a 5-point scale, using a maximum of 3 mL of product. A smaller volume of HA-RK compared with HA-JV was required to improve lip fullness by ≥ 1 grade (mean: 1.54 mL vs 1.94 mL, p < .001). Despite the smaller volume, lip fullness and global aesthetic improvement were comparably sustained in both groups. At 6 months, 60.0% versus 57.7% of subjects (HA-RK vs HA-JV) had improved lip fullness. At 12 months, 71.4% versus 76.0% had aesthetic improvement (blinded evaluations) and 85.7% versus 86.2% felt more attractive. Both products were well tolerated. Both products achieved durable improvement in lip fullness and aesthetic appearance. A significantly smaller amount of HA-RK was required compared with HA-JV to achieve optimal treatment effect.

  19. Randomized, Evaluator-Blinded Study Comparing Safety and Effect of Two Hyaluronic Acid Gels for Lips Enhancement

    PubMed Central

    Sattler, Gerhard; Berg, Anna-Karin; Samuelson, Ulf; Wong, Cindy

    2018-01-01

    BACKGROUND Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers may differ in terms of gel characteristics and ease of use and it is of interest whether this might affect safety and duration of effect. OBJECTIVE To compare the long-term safety and effect of 2 HA fillers produced by 2 different technologies for lip enhancement. MATERIALS AND METHODS Subjects with very thin to moderately thick lips were randomized and treated with HA-RK (N = 31) or HA-JV (N = 29) to improve lip fullness by ≥ 1 grade on a 5-point scale, using a maximum of 3 mL of product. RESULTS A smaller volume of HA-RK compared with HA-JV was required to improve lip fullness by ≥ 1 grade (mean: 1.54 mL vs 1.94 mL, p < .001). Despite the smaller volume, lip fullness and global aesthetic improvement were comparably sustained in both groups. At 6 months, 60.0% versus 57.7% of subjects (HA-RK vs HA-JV) had improved lip fullness. At 12 months, 71.4% versus 76.0% had aesthetic improvement (blinded evaluations) and 85.7% versus 86.2% felt more attractive. Both products were well tolerated. CONCLUSION Both products achieved durable improvement in lip fullness and aesthetic appearance. A significantly smaller amount of HA-RK was required compared with HA-JV to achieve optimal treatment effect. PMID:29059146

  20. Hydrocortisone and triiodothyronine regulate hyaluronate synthesis in a tissue-engineered human dermal equivalent through independent pathways.

    PubMed

    Deshpande, Madhura; Papp, Suzanne; Schaffer, Lana; Pouyani, Tara

    2015-02-01

    Hydrocortisone (HC) and triiodothyronine (T3) have both been shown to be capable of independently inhibiting hyaluronate (HA, hyaluronic acid) synthesis in a self-assembled human dermal equivalent (human dermal matrix). We sought to investigate the action of these two hormones in concert on extracellular matrix formation and HA inhibition in the tissue engineered human dermal matrix. To this end, neonatal human dermal fibroblasts were cultured in defined serum-free medium for 21 days in the presence of each hormone alone, or in combination, in varying concentrations. Through a process of self-assembly, a substantial dermal extracellular matrix formed that was characterized. The results of these studies demonstrate that combinations of the hormones T3 and hydrocortisone showed significantly higher levels of hyaluronate inhibition as compared to each hormone alone in the human dermal matrix. In order to gain preliminary insight into the genes regulating HA synthesis in this system, a differential gene array analysis was conducted in which the construct prepared in the presence of 200 μg/mL HC and 0.2 nM T3 was compared to the normal construct (0.4 μg/mL HC and 20 pM T3). Using a GLYCOv4 gene chip containing approximately 1260 human genes, we observed differential expression of 131 genes. These data suggest that when these two hormones are used in concert a different mechanism of inhibition prevails and a combination of degradation and inhibition of HA synthesis may be responsible for HA regulation in the human dermal matrix. Copyright © 2014 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. The Skin Bacterium Propionibacterium acnes Employs Two Variants of Hyaluronate Lyase with Distinct Properties

    PubMed Central

    Nazipi, Seven; Stødkilde, Kristian; Scavenius, Carsten

    2017-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) and other glycosaminoglycans are extracellular matrix components in the human epidermis and dermis. One of the most prevalent skin microorganisms, Propionibacterium acnes, possesses HA-degrading activity, possibly conferred by the enzyme hyaluronate lyase (HYL). In this study, we identified the HYL of P. acnes and investigated the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics. Investigations include the generation of a P. acnes hyl knockout mutant and HYL activity assays to determine the substrate range and formed products. We found that P. acnes employs two distinct variants of HYL. One variant, HYL-IB/II, is highly active, resulting in complete HA degradation; it is present in strains of the phylotypes IB and II. The other variant, HYL-IA, has low activity, resulting in incomplete HA degradation; it is present in type IA strains. Our findings could explain some of the observed differences between P. acnes phylotype IA and IB/II strains. Whereas type IA strains are primarily found on the skin surface and associated with acne vulgaris, type IB/II strains are more often associated with soft and deep tissue infections, which would require elaborate tissue invasion strategies, possibly accomplished by a highly active HYL-IB/II. PMID:28895889

  2. Hyaluronic acid binding by human sperm indicates cellular maturity, viability, and unreacted acrosomal status.

    PubMed

    Huszar, Gabor; Ozenci, Ciler Celik; Cayli, Sevil; Zavaczki, Zoltan; Hansch, Eleonora; Vigue, Lynne

    2003-06-01

    To test, both in semen and washed-sperm fractions, whether hyaluronic acid (HA) binding is restricted to sperm that have completed cellular maturation. Comparisons of sperm in semen and in HA-bound sperm fractions. University-based diagnostic and research andrology laboratory. Semen samples originated in men being tested for infertility. The attributes of sperm maturity were tested by immunocytochemistry with creatine kinase and HspA2 antisera (highlights cytoplasmic retention in diminished-maturity sperm), aniline blue chromatin staining (detects persistent histones), pisum sativum lectin staining (reveals acrosomal integrity), and the FertiLight viability kit (highlights viable and nonviable sperm). All markers of sperm maturity and immaturity supported the hypothesis that HA-bound sperm are mature. Nonbinding sperm exhibited cytoplasmic and nuclear properties of diminished maturity. The acrosomal status of HA-bound sperm was either unreacted or slightly capacitated, but not acrosome reacted. Only viable sperm exhibited HA binding. Sperm that are able to bind to HA are mature and have completed the spermiogenetic processes of sperm plasma membrane remodeling, cytoplasmic extrusion, and nuclear histone-protamine replacement. Hyaluronic acid-bound sperm show unreacted acrosomes. These studies provide further insights into the relationship between spermiogenesis and sperm function.

  3. Hyaluronic acid-coated, prodrug-based nanostructured lipid carriers for enhanced pancreatic cancer therapy.

    PubMed

    Lu, Zhihe; Su, Jingrong; Li, Zhengrong; Zhan, Yuzhu; Ye, Decai

    2017-01-01

    Gemcitabine (GEM) and Baicalein (BCL) are reported to have anti-tumor effects including pancreatic cancer. Hyaluronic acid (HA) can bind to over-expressed receptors in various kinds of cancer cells. The aim of this study is to develop prodrugs containing HA, BCL and GEM, and construct nanomedicine incorporate GEM and BCL in the core and HA on the surface. This system could target the cancer cells and co-deliver the drugs. GEM-stearic acid lipid prodrug (GEM-SA) and hyaluronic acid-amino acid-baicalein prodrug (HA-AA-BCL) were synthesized. Then, GEM and BCL prodrug-based targeted nanostructured lipid carriers (HA-GEM-BCL NLCs) were prepared by the nanoprecipitation technique. The in vitro cytotoxicity studies of the NLCs were evaluated on AsPC1 pancreatic cancer cell line. In vivo anti-tumor effects were observed on the murine-bearing pancreatic cancer model. HA-GEM-BCL NLCs were effective in entering pancreatic cancer cells over-expressing HA receptors, and showed cytotoxicity of tumor cells in vitro. In vivo study revealed significant tumor growth inhibition ability of HA-GEM-BCL NLCs in murine pancreatic cancer model. It could be concluded that HA-GEM-BCL NLCs could be featured as promising co-delivery, tumor-targeted nanomedicine for the treatment of cancers.

  4. Electrostatic effects on hyaluronic acid configuration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berezney, John; Saleh, Omar

    2015-03-01

    In systems of polyelectrolytes, such as solutions of charged biopolymers, the electrostatic repulsion between charged monomers plays a dominant role in determining the molecular conformation. Altering the ionic strength of the solvent thus affects the structure of such a polymer. Capturing this electrostatically-driven structural dependence is important for understanding many biological systems. Here, we use single molecule manipulation experiments to collect force-extension behavior on hyaluronic acid (HA), a polyanion which is a major component of the extracellular matrix in all vertebrates. By measuring HA elasticity in a variety of salt conditions, we are able to directly assess the contribution of electrostatics to the chain's self-avoidance and local stiffness. Similar to recent results from our group on single-stranded nucleic acids, our data indicate that HA behaves as a swollen chain of electrostatic blobs, with blob size proportional to the solution Debye length. Our data indicate that the chain structure within the blob is not worm-like, likely due to long-range electrostatic interactions. We discuss potential models of this effect.

  5. Incentives for improving human resource outcomes in health care: overview of reviews.

    PubMed

    Misfeldt, Renee; Linder, Jordana; Lait, Jana; Hepp, Shelanne; Armitage, Gail; Jackson, Karen; Suter, Esther

    2014-01-01

    To review the effectiveness of financial and nonfinancial incentives for improving the benefits (recruitment, retention, job satisfaction, absenteeism, turnover, intent to leave) of human resource strategies in health care. Overview of 33 reviews published from 2000 to 2012 summarized the effectiveness of incentives for improving human resource outcomes in health care (such as job satisfaction, turnover rates, recruitment, and retention) that met the inclusion criteria and were assessed by at least two research members using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews quality assessment tool. Of those, 13 reviews met the quality criteria and were included in the overview. Information was extracted on a description of the review, the incentives considered, and their impact on human resource outcomes. The information on the relationship between incentives and outcomes was assessed and synthesized. While financial compensation is the best-recognized approach within an incentives package, there is evidence that health care practitioners respond positively to incentives linked to the quality of the working environments including opportunities for professional development, improved work life balance, interprofessional collaboration, and professional autonomy. There is less evidence that workload factors such as job demand, restructured staffing models, re-engineered work designs, ward practices, employment status, or staff skill mix have an impact on human resource outcomes. Overall, evidence of effective strategies for improving outcomes is mixed. While financial incentives play a key role in enhancing outcomes, they need to be considered as only one strategy within an incentives package. There is stronger evidence that improving the work place environment and instituting mechanisms for work-life balance need to be part of an overall strategy to improve outcomes for health care practitioners.

  6. Integrating empowerment evaluation and quality improvement to achieve healthcare improvement outcomes.

    PubMed

    Wandersman, Abraham; Alia, Kassandra Ann; Cook, Brittany; Ramaswamy, Rohit

    2015-10-01

    While the body of evidence-based healthcare interventions grows, the ability of health systems to deliver these interventions effectively and efficiently lags behind. Quality improvement approaches, such as the model for improvement, have demonstrated some success in healthcare but their impact has been lessened by implementation challenges. To help address these challenges, we describe the empowerment evaluation approach that has been developed by programme evaluators and a method for its application (Getting To Outcomes (GTO)). We then describe how GTO can be used to implement healthcare interventions. An illustrative healthcare quality improvement example that compares the model for improvement and the GTO method for reducing hospital admissions through improved diabetes care is described. We conclude with suggestions for integrating GTO and the model for improvement. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

  7. Improving patient outcomes with technology and social media in paediatric diabetes.

    PubMed

    Ng, Sze May

    2015-01-01

    The UK has the highest number of children and young people with diagnosed Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Europe, but the lowest numbers attaining good diabetes control (1, 2). Novel strategies and incorporation of digital strategies were identified in the team for development to improve overall patient care and outcomes in our population of children and young people with T1DM. Within a dual-site integrated care organisation, 3 digital initiatives were proposed from 2012-2013 to 1) establish Facebook communications with parents/patients, 2) to implement an electronic diabetes information management system (using Twinkle.Net) and 3) to undertake routine uploading of blood glucose meters and insulin pumps (using DIASEND®) with the aim to improve outcomes in paediatric diabetes care. Key objectives for the three initiatives were aimed to optimise the following outcomes: • Reduce HbA1c levels • Decrease emergency admissions, reduce diabetes-related complications and minimise the length of hospital stays • Improve patient satisfaction and communication • Improve efficiencies with mandatory audit submissions • Empower patients, parents, and the multidisciplicnary team with accurate, real-time information. These digital initiatives showed effective use of technology and social media in achieving significant improvements in all the outcomes within the objectives.

  8. Will Interventions Targeting Conscientiousness Improve Aging Outcomes?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    English, Tammy; Carstensen, Laura L.

    2014-01-01

    The articles appearing in this special section discuss the role that conscientiousness may play in healthy aging. Growing evidence suggests that conscientious individuals live longer and healthier lives. However, the question remains whether this personality trait can be leveraged to improve long-term health outcomes. We argue that even though it…

  9. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficiency of hyaluronic acid after third molar extraction.

    PubMed

    Gocmen, Gokhan; Gonul, Onur; Oktay, Nihal Sehkar; Yarat, Aysen; Goker, Kamil

    2015-09-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) has a number of clinical applications in current practice. Therefore, correlation of HA with free radicals and inflammatory cells is clinically important. The purpose of this study is to measure the efficacy of high molecular weight HA on the oxidative stress of oral wounds (glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels), the inflammatory reaction (leucocytes, collagen and angiogenesis content), pain (visual analogue scale (VAS) records) and trismus (maximum interincisal opening (MIO) records) after third molar (M3) extraction. 40 patients were included in this study. 0.2 ml 0.8% HA was applied immediately after surgery within the HA group (n = 20). Nothing was applied to the control group (n = 20). The primary outcome variables were the changes in the inflammatory reaction (leucocyte, angiogenesis and collagen content), oxidative stress (GSH, LPO) and clinical parameters (VAS, MIO). Results were compared immediately after extraction (T0) and 1 week after surgery (T1). Bivariate analyses were used to assess the differences between the HA and control groups for each study variable. There was a statistically significant difference of leucocyte infiltration and angiogenesis between the groups at T1. The HA group showed less leucocyte infiltration and more angiogenesis than the control group. There was no statistically significant difference in oxidative stress, VAS or MIO levels between the groups. Our results confirm the hypothesis that HA has an anti-inflammatory effect following M3 extraction. However, the oxidative stress levels and clinical outcomes were similar after one week. Further studies examining these parameters at different times are necessary. Copyright © 2015 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Improving patient outcomes to targeted therapies in melanoma.

    PubMed

    Eroglu, Zeynep; Smalley, Keiran S M; Sondak, Vernon K

    2016-06-01

    The arrival of targeted therapies has led to significant improvements in clinical outcomes for patients with BRAFV600 mutated advanced melanoma over the past five years. In several clinical trials, BRAF and MEK inhibitors have shown improvement in progression free and overall survival, along with much higher tumor response rates in comparison to chemotherapy, with the combination of these drugs superior to monotherapy. These agents are also being tested in earlier-stage patients, in addition to alternative dosing regimens and in combinations with other therapeutics. Efforts are also ongoing to expand the success found with targeted therapies to other subtypes of melanoma, including NRAS and c-kit mutated melanomas, uveal melanomas, and BRAF/NRAS wild type melanomas. Expert Commentary: We aim to provide an overview of clinical outcomes with targeted therapies in melanoma patients.

  11. pH sensitive polymeric complex of cisplatin with hyaluronic acid exhibits tumor-targeted delivery and improved in vivo antitumor effect.

    PubMed

    Fan, Xiaohong; Zhao, Xuesong; Qu, Xinkai; Fang, Jun

    2015-12-30

    Cisplatin (CDDP) is widely used anticancer drug for various solid tumors including lung cancer. However, its indiscriminate distribution causes serious adverse effects and limits its therapeutic effect. In this study, by using hyaluronic acid (HA) we synthesized a complex of CDDP (HA-CDDP), by utilizing ionic interaction between Pt(2+) of CDDP with carboxyl group of HA. The mean HA-CDDP particle size was 208.5nm in PBS according to dynamic light scattering which was also confirmed by TEM, which could exert tumor-targeting property by enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. The CDDP loading in this preparation was 13% (w/w), and release rate of free CDDP from the HA-CDDP complex at physiological pH (7.4) was ∼20%/day. However, in acidic pH the release was much faster, i.e., ∼95% of CDDP was released in 72h at pH 5.5. Moreover, HA-CDDP showed a 2.5-fold higher tumor accumulation than free CDDP whereas no increase of distribution was found in most normal tissues. In addition, because HA receptor CD44 is overexpressed in many tumor cells, we also observed CD44-based endocytosis of HA-CDDP in mouse lung carcinoma LCC cells. These findings together suggest that HA-CDDP may show tumor-selective cytotoxicity by taking advantage of EPR effect, weak acidic environment of tumor tissues (e.g., pH 6∼7), as well as CD44-based intracellular uptake. As expected, HA-CDDP exhibited much improved therapeutic effect than free CDDP in mouse LCC tumor model, whereas no apparent side effect was found. These findings may shed some light on the potential utility of HA for development of tumor-targeted polymeric CDDP drugs, which need further investigations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Perforated peptic ulcer: how to improve outcome?

    PubMed

    Møller, Morten Hylander; Adamsen, Sven; Wøjdemann, Morten; Møller, Ann Merete

    2009-01-01

    Despite the introduction of histamine H2-receptor antagonists, proton-pump inhibitors and the discovery of Helicobacter pylori, both the incidence of emergency surgery for perforated peptic ulcer and the mortality rate for patients undergoing surgery for peptic ulcer perforation have increased. This increase has occurred despite improvements in perioperative treatment and monitoring. To improve the outcome of these patients, it is necessary to investigate the reasons behind this high mortality rate. In this review we evaluate the existing evidence in order to identify significant risk factors with an emphasis on risks that are preventable. A systematic review including randomized studies was carried out. There are a limited number of studies of patients with peptic ulcer perforation. Most of these studies are of low evident status. Only a few randomized, controlled trials have been published. The mortality rate and the extent of postoperative complications are fairly high but the reasons for this have not been thoroughly explained, even though a number of risk factors have been identified. Some of these risk factors can be explained by the septic state of the patient on admission. In order to improve the outcome of patients with peptic ulcer perforation, sepsis needs to be factored into the existing knowledge and treatment.

  13. In vitro and in vivo gene delivery using chitosan/hyaluronic acid nanoparticles: Influences of molecular mass of hyaluronic acid and lyophilization on transfection efficiency.

    PubMed

    Sato, Toshinori; Nakata, Mitsuhiro; Yang, Zhihong; Torizuka, Yu; Kishimoto, Satoko; Ishihara, Masayuki

    2017-08-01

    Lyophilization is an effective method for preserving nonviral gene vectors. To improve the stability and transgene expression of lyophilized plasmid DNA (pDNA) complexes, we coated the surfaces of pDNA/chitosan complexes with hyaluronic acid (HA) of varying molecular masses. The transgene expression of pDNA/chitosan/HA ternary complexes was characterized in vitro and in vivo. pDNA complexes were lyophilized overnight and the resultant products with spongy, porous consistencies were stored at -30, 4 or 25°C for 2 weeks. Rehydrated complexes were characterized using gel retardation assays, aiming to confirm complex formation, measure particle size and evaluate zeta potential, as well as conduct luciferase gene reporter assays. The anti-tumor effects of pDNA ternary complexes were evaluated using suicide gene (pTK) coding thymidine kinase in Huh7-implanted mice. Transfection efficiencies of pDNA/chitosan/HA ternary complexes were dependent on the average molecular masses of HA. The coating of pDNA/chitosan complexes with HA maintained the cellular transfection efficiencies of lyophilized pDNA ternary complexes. Furthermore, intratumoral injection of lyophilized, rehydrated pDNA ternary complexes into tumor-bearing mice showed a significant suppression of tumor growth. The coating of pDNA/chitosan complexes with high-molecular-weight HA augmented the stability and cellular transfection ability of the complexes after lyophilization-rehydration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  14. Does Hip Arthroscopy Provide Meaningful Outcome Improvement for Adolescent Femoroacetabular Impingement

    PubMed Central

    Nwachukwu, Benedict Uchenna; Chang, Brenda; Kahlenberg, Cynthia A.; Fields, Kara G.; Nawabi, Danyal H.; Kelly, Bryan T.; Ranawat, Anil S.

    2017-01-01

    Objectives: Arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) produces meaningful outcome improvement in adults. Hip arthroscopy for pediatric FAI is now established as a safe procedure however there is a paucity of evidence reporting on outcome improvement after arthroscopic treatment of FAI in this population. Methods: A prospective institutional hip preservation registry was reviewed to identify hip arthroscopies performed for pediatric FAI. Patients with pre-existing hip conditions such as slipped capital femoral epiphysis and Legg-Calve-Perthese were excluded. Included patients were 18 years and younger. The modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), the Hip Outcome Score (HOS) and the international Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33) are routinely collected as part of the registry. Minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was calculated using a distribution based method and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) was calculated using the an anchor question. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis with area under the curve was used. AUC > 0.7 was considered significantly predictive. Results: Forty-seven children and adolescents were identified. The majority of patients were female (N=32, 68.1%) with a mean age of 16.5 (+ 1.1) years. The MCID (% achieving) for the mHHS, HOS activities of daily living (ADL), HOS Sport and iHOT-33 was 9.5 (85%), 9.8 (79%), 12.1 (85%) and 10.7 (94%) respectively. MCID values on these outcome tools were comparable to adult patients within the registry however for each outcome measure pediatric patients were more likely to achieve MCID. In univariate analysis acetabular version was the only predictive variable for achieving MCID in pediatric FAI (p<0.05). The majority of children (91%) reported improved physical ability based on the anchor question and 53% (compared to 40% in adult registry patients) were classified as achieving SCB. The following one-year raw outcome scores were significantly predictive of SCB on the mHHS, HOS

  15. Improving aesthetic outcomes after head and neck reconstruction.

    PubMed

    Al Afif, Ayham; Uys, H Kendal; Taylor, S Mark

    2018-05-02

    Tremendous advancements have been made in head and neck reconstruction following oncologic resection. Despite this, many patients are left with disfiguring postoperative changes. The focus of this review highlights various techniques aimed at improving aesthetic outcomes following head and neck cancer therapy, with a focus on liposuction and fat augmentation. Over the past decade, the use of liposuction in treating lymphedema after head and neck cancer therapy has showed promising results. Owing to great improvements in harvesting and purification techniques, fat augmentation has been effectively utilized in correcting a wide array of defects. Although free tissue transfer is frequently used in head and neck reconstruction, there is a scarcity of literature on the indications for flap revision procedures. Head and neck reconstructive surgery can lead to significant cosmetic and functional morbidity. Several tools are available to help improve aesthetic outcomes in this patient population. A thorough understanding of the various techniques and their indications is essential for achieving optimal results.Video abstract available: See the Video Supplementary Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/COOH/A34.

  16. Hyaluronic Acid in Vascular and Immune Homeostasis during Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia

    PubMed Central

    Ziganshina, M. M.; Pavlovich, S. V.; Bovin, N. V.; Sukhikh, G. T.

    2016-01-01

    Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem pathologic state that clinically manifests itself after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is characterized by high maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. According to modern concepts, the impairment of trophoblast invasion into maternal spiral arteries, leading to the development of ischemia in placenta, is considered to be the major pathogenetic factor of PE development. Ischemic lesions initiate the development of a systemic inflammatory response (SIR) and endothelial dysfunction, which is the main cause of the multiple organ failure in PE. Some data has appear indicating the importance of a glycans-forming endothelial glycocalyx and extracellular matrix (ECM) for placenta morphogenesis, as well as their role in the regulation of vascular permeability and vascular tone in hypertension disorders and, in particular, PE. Since intact glycocalyx and ECM are considered to be the major factors that maintain the physiological vascular tone and adequate intercellular interactions, their value in PE pathogenesis is underestimated. This review is focused on hyaluronic acid (HA) as the key glycan providing the organization and stabilization of the ECM and glycocalyx, its distribution in tissues in the case of presence or absence of placental pathology, as well as on the regulatory function of hyaluronic acids of various molecular weights in different physiological and pathophysiological processes. The summarized data will provide a better understanding of the PE pathogenesis, with the main focus on glycopathology. PMID:27795844

  17. Liver-targeting self-assembled hyaluronic acid-glycyrrhetinic acid micelles enhance hepato-protective effect of silybin after oral administration.

    PubMed

    Han, Xiaofeng; Wang, Zhe; Wang, Manyuan; Li, Jing; Xu, Yongsong; He, Rui; Guan, Hongyu; Yue, Zhujun; Gong, Muxin

    2016-06-01

    In order to enhance oral bioavailability and liver targeting delivery of silybin, two amphiphilic hyaluronic acid derivatives, hyaluronic acid-deoxycholic acid (HA-adh-DOCA) and hyaluronic acid-glycyrrhetinic acid (HA-adh-GA) conjugates, were designed and synthesized. Silybin was successfully loaded in HA-adh-DOCA and HA-adh-GA micelles with high drug-loading capacities (20.3% ± 0.5% and 20.6% ± 0.6%, respectively). The silybin-loaded micelles were spherical in shape with the average size around 130 nm. In vitro release study showed that two silybin-loaded micelles displayed similar steady continued-release pattern in simulated gastrointestinal fluids and PBS. Single-pass intestinal perfusion studies indicated that silybin-loaded micelles were absorbed in the whole intestine and transported via a passive diffusion mechanism. Compared with suspension formulation, silybin-loaded HA-adh-DOCA and HA-adh-GA micelles achieved significantly higher AUC and Cmax level. Moreover, liver targeting drug delivery of micelles was confirmed by in vivo imaging analysis. In comparison between the two micellar formulations, HA-adh-GA micelles possessed higher targeting capacity than HA-adh-DOCA micelles, owing to the active hepatic targeting properties of glycyrrhetinic acid. In the treatment of acute liver injury induced by CCl4, silybin-loaded HA-adh-GA micelles displayed better effects over suspension control and silybin-loaded HA-adh-DOCA micelles. Overall, pharmaceutical and pharmacological indicators suggested that the HA-adh-GA conjugates can be successfully utilized for liver targeting of orally administered therapeutics.

  18. Family interventions to improve diabetes outcomes for adults

    PubMed Central

    Baig, Arshiya A.; Benitez, Amanda; Quinn, Michael T.; Burnet, Deborah L.

    2015-01-01

    Diabetes self-care is a critical aspect of disease management for adults with diabetes. Since family members can play a vital role in a patient’s disease management, involving them in self-care interventions may positively influence patients’ diabetes outcomes. We systematically reviewed family-based interventions for adults with diabetes published from 1994 to 2014 and assessed their impact on patients’ diabetes outcomes and the extent of family involvement. We found 26 studies describing family-based diabetes interventions for adults. Interventions were conducted across a range of patient populations and settings. The degree of family involvement varied across studies. We found evidence for improvement in patients’ self-efficacy, perceived social support, diabetes knowledge, and diabetes self-care across the studies. Owing to the heterogeneity of the study designs, types of interventions, reporting of outcomes, and family involvement, it is difficult to determine how family participation in diabetes interventions may affect patients’ clinical outcomes. Future studies should clearly describe the role of family in the intervention, assess quality and extent of family participation, and compare patient outcomes with and without family involvement. PMID:26250784

  19. Oral soft tissue wound healing after laser surgery with or without a pool of amino acids and sodium hyaluronate: a randomized clinical study.

    PubMed

    Romeo, Umberto; Libotte, Fabrizio; Palaia, Gaspare; Galanakis, Alexandros; Gaimari, Gianfranco; Tenore, Gianluca; Del Vecchio, Alessandro; Polimeni, Antonella

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare secondary intention healing of oral soft tissues after laser surgery with and without the use of a compound containing amino acids and sodium hyaluronate. Sodium hyaluronate has been successfully used in medicine to promote healing. It has not been studied in the healing of laser-produced wounds. Excisional biopsy was performed in oral soft tissues with a potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) laser (532 nm, SmartLite, DEKA, Florence, Italy) in 49 patients divided into two groups. In the study group (SG), 31 patients received a compound gel containing four amino acids and sodium hyaluronate (Aminogam(®), Errekappa, Italy) after laser surgery; in the control group (CG), 18 subjects received no treatment involving a drug or gel. Numeric rating scale (NRS) was used to evaluate pain experienced after surgery [pain index (PI)]. Using a grid as a benchmark and computer software, the lesion area was measured after surgery (T0) and after 7 days (T1). A percentage healing index (PHI) was calculated indicating healing extension in 7 days. SG cases showed an average PHI of 64.38±26.50, whereas the average PHI in the CG was 47.88%±27.84. Mean PI was 2.67±0.96 for SG and 2.75±0.86 for CG. A statistically significant difference was detected between the groups for PHI (p=0.0447), whereas no difference was detectable for PI (p=0.77). The use of a gel containing amino acids and sodium hyaluronate can promote faster healing via secondary intention in laser-induced wounds, although it does not seem to affect pain perception.

  20. Improving child welfare performance through supervisory use of client outcome data.

    PubMed

    Moore, T D; Rapp, C A; Roberts, B

    2000-01-01

    Despite their benefits, there is little evidence that outcome data are being widely used by program managers or field level supervisors. Three interdependent factors that facilitate the use of outcome data are well-constructed reports, and organizational culture that supports learning and outcome achievement, and managerial skills in interpreting data and taking relevant action. This article describes an outcome reporting package and training oriented toward frontline supervisors to help them use outcome data, shape a learning culture, interpret data, and take focused action toward improving outcomes for children and families.

  1. Improving Outcome for Mental Disorders by Enhancing Memory for Treatment

    PubMed Central

    Harvey, Allison G.; Lee, Jason; Smith, Rita L.; Gumport, Nicole B.; Hollon, Steven D.; Rabe-Hesketh, Sophia; Hein, Kerrie; Dolsen, Michael R.; Hamen, Kristen; Kanady, Jennifer C.; Thompson, Monique A.; Abrons, Deidre

    2017-01-01

    Summary Patients exhibit poor memory for treatment. A novel Memory Support Intervention, derived from basic science in cognitive psychology and education, is tested with the goal of improving patient memory for treatment and treatment outcome. Adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) were randomized to 14 sessions of cognitive therapy (CT)+Memory Support (n = 25) or CT-as-usual (CTMS; n = 23). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-treatment and 6 months later. Memory support was greater in CT+Memory Support compared to the CT-as-usual. Compared to CT-as-usual, small to medium effect sizes were observed for recall of treatment points at post-treatment. There was no difference between the treatment arms on depression severity (primary outcome). However, the odds of meeting criteria for ‘response’ and ‘remission’ were higher in CT+Memory Support compared with CT-as-usual. CT+Memory Support also showed an advantage on functional impairment. While some decline was observed, the advantage of CT+Memory Support was evident through 6-month follow-up. Patients with less than 16 years of education experience greater benefits from memory support than those with 16 or more years of education. Memory support can be manipulated, may improve patient memory for treatment and may be associated with an improved outcome. PMID:27089159

  2. An injectable oxidated hyaluronic acid/adipic acid dihydrazide hydrogel as a vitreous substitute.

    PubMed

    Su, Wen-Yu; Chen, Ko-Hua; Chen, Yu-Chun; Lee, Yen-Hsien; Tseng, Ching-Li; Lin, Feng-Huei

    2011-01-01

    Vitrectomy is a common procedure for treating ocular-related diseases. The surgery involves removing the vitreous humor from the center of the eye, and vitreous substitutes are needed to replace the vitreous humor after vitrectomy. In the present study, we developed a colorless, transparent and injectable hydrogel with appropriate refractive index as a vitreous substitute. The hydrogel is formed by oxidated hyaluronic acid (oxi-HA) cross-linked with adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH). Hyaluronic acid (HA) was oxidized by sodium periodate to create aldehyde functional groups, which could be cross-linked by ADH. The refractive index of this hydrogel ranged between 1.3420 and 1.3442, which is quite similar to human vitreous humor (1.3345). The degradation tests demonstrated that the hydrogel could maintain the gel matrix over 35 days, depending on the ADH concentration. In addition, the cytotoxicity was evaluated on retina pigmented epithelium (RPE) cells cultivated following the ISO standard (tests for in vitro cytotoxicity), and the hydrogel was found to be non-toxic. In a preliminary animal study, the oxi-HA/ADH hydrogel was injected into the vitreous cavity of rabbit eyes. The evaluations of slit-lamp observation, intraocular pressure, cornea thickness and histological examination showed no significant abnormal biological reactions for 3 weeks. This study suggests that the injectable oxi-HA/ADH hydrogel should be a potential vitreous substitute. Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2011

  3. Characterization of protein release from photocrosslinkable hyaluronic acid-polyethylene glycol hydrogel tissue engineering scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Leach, Jennie B; Schmidt, Christine E

    2005-01-01

    The goal of this work was to utilize the naturally derived bioactive polymer hyaluronic acid (HA) to create a combination tissue engineering scaffold and protein delivery device. HA is a non-immunogenic, non-adhesive glycosaminoglycan that plays significant roles in several cellular processes, including angiogenesis and the regulation of inflammation. In previous work, we created photopolymerizable glycidyl methacrylate-hyaluronic acid (GMHA) hydrogels that had controlled degradation rates, were cytocompatible, and were able to be modified with peptide moieties. In the present studies, we characterized the release of a model protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA), from GMHA and GMHA-polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels. Although BSA could be released rapidly (> 60% within 6 h) from 1% GMHA hydrogels, we found that increasing either the GMHA or the PEG concentrations could lengthen the duration of protein delivery. Preliminary size exclusion chromatography studies indicated that the released BSA was almost entirely in its native monomeric form. Lastly, protein release was extended to several weeks by suspending BSA-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres within the hydrogel bulk. These initial studies indicate that the naturally derived biopolymer HA can be employed to design novel photopolymerizable composites that are suitable for delivering stable proteins from scaffolding in tissue engineering applications.

  4. Injectable In Situ Forming Biodegradable Chitosan-Hyaluronic acid Based Hydrogels for Cartilage Tissue Engineering

    PubMed Central

    Tan, Huaping; Chu, Constance R.; Payne, Karin; Marra, Kacey G.

    2009-01-01

    Injectable, biodegradable scaffolds are important biomaterials for tissue engineering and drug delivery. Hydrogels derived from natural polysaccharides are ideal scaffolds as they resemble the extracellular matrices of tissues comprised of various glycosaminoglycans (GAG). Here, we report a new class of biocompatible and biodegradable composite hydrogels derived from water-soluble chitosan and oxidized hyaluronic acid upon mixing, without the addition of a chemical crosslinking agent. The gelation is attributed to the Schiff-base reaction between amino and aldehyde groups of polysaccharide derivatives. In the current work, N-succinyl-chitosan (S-CS) and aldehyde hyaluronic acid (A-HA) were synthesized for preparation of the composite hydrogels. The polysaccharide derivatives and composite hydrogels were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy. The effect of the ratio of S-CS and A-HA on the gelation time, microstructure, surface morphology, equilibrium swelling, compressive modulus, and in vitro degradation of composite hydrogels was examined. The potential of the composite hydrogel as an injectable scaffold was demonstrated by encapsulation of bovine articular chondrocytes within the composite hydrogel matrix in vitro. The results demonstrated that the composite hydrogel supported cell survival and the cells retained chondrocytic morphology. These characteristics provide a potential opportunity to use the injectable, composite hydrogels in tissue engineering applications. PMID:19167750

  5. Hyaluronic acid modified chitosan nanoparticles for effective management of glaucoma: development, characterization, and evaluation.

    PubMed

    Wadhwa, Sheetu; Paliwal, Rishi; Paliwal, Shivani R; Vyas, S P

    2010-05-01

    In clinical practices, solution of dorzolamide hydrochloride (DH) and timolol maléate (TM) is recommended for the treatment of glaucoma. However, low drug-contact time and poor ocular bioavailability of drugs due to drainage of solution, tear turnover and its dilution or lacrimation limits its uses. In addition, systemic absorption of TM may induce undesirable cardiovascular side effects. Chitosan (CS) is a polycationic biodegradable polymer which provides sustained and local delivery of drugs to the ocular sites. Hyaluronic acid (HA) also provides synergistic effect for mucoadhesion in association with chitosan. In the present study, hyaluronic acid modified chitosan nanoparticles (CS-HA-NPs) loaded with TM and DH were developed and characterized. The CS-HA-NPs were evaluated for size, shape, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and mucoadhesive strength. The in vitro release study was also performed in PBS pH 7.4. The ocular irritation potential of CS-HA-NPs was estimated using draize test on albino rabbits. A significant reduction in IOP level was obtained using CS-HA-NPs as compared to plain solution of drug and a comparable higher reduction in IOP level was observed as to CS-NPs. These results suggest that HA potentialy enhance the mucoadhesiveness and efficiency of CS-NPs and may be promising carrier for ocular drug delivery.

  6. Role of video games in improving health-related outcomes: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Primack, Brian A; Carroll, Mary V; McNamara, Megan; Klem, Mary Lou; King, Brandy; Rich, Michael; Chan, Chun W; Nayak, Smita

    2012-06-01

    Video games represent a multibillion-dollar industry in the U.S. Although video gaming has been associated with many negative health consequences, it also may be useful for therapeutic purposes. The goal of this study was to determine whether video games may be useful in improving health outcomes. Literature searches were performed in February 2010 in six databases: the Center on Media and Child Health Database of Research, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Reference lists were hand-searched to identify additional studies. Only RCTs that tested the effect of video games on a positive, clinically relevant health consequence were included. Study selection criteria were strictly defined and applied by two researchers working independently. Study background information (e.g., location, funding source); sample data (e.g., number of study participants, demographics); intervention and control details; outcomes data; and quality measures were abstracted independently by two researchers. Of 1452 articles retrieved using the current search strategy, 38 met all criteria for inclusion. Eligible studies used video games to provide physical therapy, psychological therapy, improved disease self-management, health education, distraction from discomfort, increased physical activity, and skills training for clinicians. Among the 38 studies, a total of 195 health outcomes were examined. Video games improved 69% of psychological therapy outcomes, 59% of physical therapy outcomes, 50% of physical activity outcomes, 46% of clinician skills outcomes, 42% of health education outcomes, 42% of pain distraction outcomes, and 37% of disease self-management outcomes. Study quality was generally poor; for example, two thirds (66%) of studies had follow-up periods of <12 weeks, and only 11% of studies blinded researchers. There is potential promise for video games to improve health outcomes, particularly in the areas of psychological

  7. Does Intra-articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection Provide Clinically Superior Outcomes Compared With Other Therapies in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis? A Systematic Review of Overlapping Meta-analyses.

    PubMed

    Campbell, Kirk A; Saltzman, Bryan M; Mascarenhas, Randy; Khair, M Michael; Verma, Nikhil N; Bach, Bernard R; Cole, Brian J

    2015-11-01

    The aims of this study were (1) to perform a systematic review of meta-analyses evaluating platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection in the treatment of knee joint cartilage degenerative pathology, (2) to provide a framework for analysis and interpretation of the best available evidence to provide recommendations for use (or lack thereof) of PRP in the setting of knee osteoarthritis (OA), and (3) to identify literature gaps where continued investigation would be suggested. Literature searches were performed for meta-analyses examining use of PRP versus corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or placebo. Clinical data were extracted, and meta-analysis quality was assessed. The Jadad algorithm was applied to determine meta-analyses that provided the highest level of evidence. Three meta-analyses met the eligibility criteria and ranged in quality from Level II to Level IV evidence. All studies compared outcomes of treatment with intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (IA-PRP) versus control (intra-articular hyaluronic acid or intra-articular placebo). Use of PRP led to significant improvements in patient outcomes at 6 months after injection, and these improvements were seen starting at 2 months and were maintained for up to 12 months. It is unclear if the use of multiple PRP injections, the double-spinning technique, or activating agents leads to better outcomes. Patients with less radiographic evidence of arthritis benefit more from PRP treatment. The use of multiple PRP injections may increase the risk of self-limited local adverse reactions. After application of the Jadad algorithm, 3 concordant high-quality meta-analyses were selected and all showed that IA-PRP provided clinically relevant improvements in pain and function compared with the control treatment. IA-PRP is a viable treatment for knee OA and has the potential to lead to symptomatic relief for up to 12 months. There appears to be an increased risk of local adverse

  8. Comparison of treatment with preservative-free versus preserved sodium hyaluronate 0.1% and fluorometholone 0.1% eyedrops after cataract surgery in patients with preexisting dry-eye syndrome.

    PubMed

    Jee, Donghyun; Park, Minji; Lee, Hee Jin; Kim, Man Soo; Kim, Eun Chul

    2015-04-01

    To compare treatment with preservative-free and preserved sodium hyaluronate 0.1% and fluorometholone 0.1% eyedrops after cataract surgery in patients with preexisting dry-eye syndrome. Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea. Randomized controlled study. Patients with cataract and dry-eye syndrome were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group 1 patients were treated with preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% and preservative-free fluorometholone 0.1% eyedrops 4 times a day in the first month and twice a day in the second month. Group 2 patients were treated with preserved eyedrops using the same schedule. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, tear-film breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer I test, corneal fluorescein staining, impression cytology, and antioxidant and inflammatory cytokine activities in tears were evaluated. Both groups comprised 40 patients. At 2 months, the OSDI score, TBUT, Schirmer I score, fluorescein staining score, impression cytology findings, and goblet cell count were significantly better in Group 1 than in Group 2 (P<.05). The interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations were significantly less in the tears of Group 1 patients than in the tears of Group 2 patients, and catalase and superoxide dismutase 2 fluorescence intensities were significantly greater in the tears of Group 1 patients than in the tears of Group 2 patients (P<.05). Preservative-free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% and fluorometholone 0.1% eyedrops can improve the symptoms and signs of dry-eye syndrome after cataract surgery. Preservative-free fluorometholone eyedrops may have antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects in tears of patients with dry-eye syndrome. No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned. Copyright © 2015 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. The use of sodium hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose (HA-CMC) barrier in gynecologic malignancies: a retrospective review of outcomes.

    PubMed

    Tan, Annie; Argenta, Peter; Ramirez, Rose; Bliss, Robin; Geller, Melissa

    2009-02-01

    Concerns exist regarding the safety of sodium hyaluronate-carboxymethylcellulose (HA-CMC, Seprafilm) adhesion barrier in regard to cancer survival as a result of in vitro data demonstrating that hyaluronan, a component of HA-CMC, may promote tumor growth. We sought to determine whether use of HA-CMC is associated with duration of disease-free or overall survival and rates of immediate complication in patients with gynecologic malignancies. We identified 202 consecutive patients with epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer who underwent initial surgical staging or interval debulking at the University of Minnesota between January 2001 and December 2004. Information on patients' demographics, medical history, surgical procedures, postoperative complications, disease stage, histology, adjuvant therapy, and disease-free and overall survival was collected from medical records. Survival curves were compared between patients receiving or not receiving HA-CMC by stratified Cox regression models, log rank, and Wilcoxon tests. The level of significance was set to alpha = .05 for each test. Eighty patients received intraoperative placement of HA-CMC and 122 did not. Immediate postoperative complication rates were equivalent in both groups. Median follow-up was 2.1 years. There was no difference in disease-free survival (5-year estimate 23.6% vs. 33.3%, P = .80) or overall survival (5-year estimate 29.7% vs. 40.3%, P = .75) between those who received HA-CMC and those who did not. Our retrospective analysis suggests that HA-CMC adhesion barrier does not affect disease-free survival or overall survival; nor does it increase the immediate postoperative complication rates in patients undergoing abdominal surgery for ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal carcinomas.

  10. Multidisciplinary in-hospital teams improve patient outcomes: A review.

    PubMed

    Epstein, Nancy E

    2014-01-01

    The use of multidisciplinary in-hospital teams limits adverse events (AE), improves outcomes, and adds to patient and employee satisfaction. Acting like "well-oiled machines," multidisciplinary in-hospital teams include "staff" from different levels of the treatment pyramid (e.g. staff including nurses' aids, surgical technicians, nurses, anesthesiologists, attending physicians, and others). Their enhanced teamwork counters the "silo effect" by enhancing communication between the different levels of healthcare workers and thus reduces AE (e.g. morbidity/mortality) while improving patient and healthcare worker satisfaction. Multiple articles across diverse disciplines incorporate a variety of concepts of "teamwork" for staff covering emergency rooms (ERs), hospital wards, intensive care units (ICUs), and most critically, operating rooms (ORs). Cohesive teamwork improved communication between different levels of healthcare workers, and limited adverse events, improved outcomes, decreased the length of stay (LOS), and yielded greater patient "staff" satisfaction. Within hospitals, delivering the best medical/surgical care is a "team sport." The goals include: Maximizing patient safety (e.g. limiting AE) and satisfaction, decreasing the LOS, and increasing the quality of outcomes. Added benefits include optimizing healthcare workers' performance, reducing hospital costs/complications, and increasing job satisfaction. This review should remind hospital administrators of the critical need to keep multidisciplinary teams together, so that they can continue to operate their "well-oiled machines" enhancing the quality/safety of patient care, while enabling "staff" to optimize their performance and enhance their job satisfaction.

  11. The effectiveness of skills training for improving outcomes in supported employment.

    PubMed

    Mueser, Kim T; Aalto, Steve; Becker, Deborah R; Ogden, John S; Wolfe, Rosemarie S; Schiavo, Diane; Wallace, Charles J; Xie, Haiyi

    2005-10-01

    This study evaluated whether a supplementary skills training program improved work outcomes for clients enrolled in supported employment programs. Thirty-five recently employed clients with severe mental illness who were receiving supported employment services at a free-standing agency were randomly assigned to participate in either the workplace fundamentals program, a skills training program designed to make work more "successful and satisfying," or treatment as usual. Knowledge of workplace fundamentals (for example, identifying workplace stressors, problem solving, and improving job performance) was assessed at baseline and at nine months; employment outcomes and use of additional vocational services were tracked for 18 months. Clients in the workplace fundamentals group (N=17) improved more in knowledge of workplace fundamentals than those in the control group (N=18) at the nine-month follow-up, but the two groups did not differ in the number of hours or days worked, salary earned, or receipt of additional vocational services over the 18-month period. In general, clients in this study had higher educational levels and better employment outcomes than clients in most previous studies of supported employment, making it difficult to detect possible effects of the skills training intervention on work. Supplementary skills training did not improve work outcomes for clients who were receiving supported employment.

  12. Hyaluronic Acid and Hyaluronidase in Prostate Cancer: Evaluation of Their Therapeutic and Prognostic Potential

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-01-01

    human prostate cancer cells. J Cell Physiol. 1995, 64: 605-612. 31. Iczkowski, KA , Bai, S, Pantazis, CG. Prostate cancer overexpresses CD44 variants 7-9...Dennis RAM, Adriana BN, Rocha DA, Gilberto S (2000) 9-aminocamptothecin and 9-nitrocamptothecin) [6] or Anti-cancer drug discovery and development in...Young MJ, Duncan RC, Urology 2003;61:30-6. Soloway MS, Block NL. Urinary hyaluronic acid and hyaluronidase: 6. Symon Z, Griffith KA , McLaughlin PW

  13. Depression Care Management: Can Employers Purchase Improved Outcomes?

    PubMed Central

    Rost, Kathryn; Marshall, Donna; Shearer, Benjamin; Dietrich, Allen J.

    2011-01-01

    Fourteen vendors are currently selling depression care management products to US employers after randomized trials demonstrate improved work outcomes. The research team interviewed 10 (71.4%) of these vendors to compare their products to four key components of interventions demonstrated to improve work outcomes. Five of 10 depression products incorporate all four key components, three of which are sold by health maintenance organizations (HMOs); however, HMOs did not deliver these components at the recommended intensity and/or duration. Only one product delivered by a disease management company delivered all four components of care at the recommended intensity and duration. This “voltage drop,” which we anticipate will increase with product implementation, suggests that every delivery system should carefully evaluate the design of its depression product before implementation for its capacity to deliver evidence-based care, repeating these evaluations as new evidence emerges. PMID:21738872

  14. Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications

    PubMed Central

    Burdick, Jason A.; Prestwich, Glenn D.

    2013-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA), an immunoneutral polysaccharide that is ubiquitous in the human body, is crucial for many cellular and tissue functions and has been in clinical use for over thirty years. When chemically modified, HA can be transformed into many physical forms -- viscoelastic solutions, soft or stiff hydrogels, electrospun fibers, non-woven meshes, macroporous and fibrillar sponges, flexible sheets, and nanoparticulate fluids -- for use in a range of preclinical and clinical settings. Many of these forms are derived from the chemical crosslinking of pendant reactive groups by addition/condensation chemistry or by radical polymerization. Clinical products for cell therapy and regenerative medicine require crosslinking chemistry that is compatible with the encapsulation of cells and injection into tissues. Moreover, an injectable clinical biomaterial must meet marketing, regulatory, and financial constraints to provide affordable products that can be approved, deployed to the clinic, and used by physicians. Many HA-derived hydrogels meet these criteria, and can deliver cells and therapeutic agents for tissue repair and regeneration. This progress report covers both basic concepts and recent advances in the development of HA-based hydrogels for biomedical applications. PMID:21394792

  15. Rethinking Ovarian Cancer: Recommendations for Improving Outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Vaughan, Sebastian; Coward, Jermaine I.; Bast Jr., Robert C.; Berchuck, Andy; Berek, Jonathan S.; Brenton, James D.; Coukos, George; Crum, Christopher C.; Drapkin, Ronny; Etemadmoghadam, Dariush; Friedlander, Michael; Gabra, Hani; Kaye, Stan B.; Lord, Chris J.; Lengyel, Ernst; Levine, Douglas A.; McNeish, Iain A.; Menon, Usha; Mills, Gordon B.; Nephew, Kenneth P.; Oza, Amit M.; Sood, Anil K.; Stronach, Euan A.; Walczak, Henning; Bowtell, David D.; Balkwill, Frances R.

    2012-01-01

    There have been major advances in our understanding of the cellular and molecular biology of the human malignancies collectively referred to as ovarian cancer. At a recent Helene Harris Memorial Trust meeting, an international group of researchers considered actions that should be taken to improve the outcome for women with ovarian cancer. Nine major recommendations are outlined in this Perspective. PMID:21941283

  16. Interprofessional collaboration to improve professional practice and healthcare outcomes.

    PubMed

    Reeves, Scott; Pelone, Ferruccio; Harrison, Reema; Goldman, Joanne; Zwarenstein, Merrick

    2017-06-22

    Poor interprofessional collaboration (IPC) can adversely affect the delivery of health services and patient care. Interventions that address IPC problems have the potential to improve professional practice and healthcare outcomes. To assess the impact of practice-based interventions designed to improve interprofessional collaboration (IPC) amongst health and social care professionals, compared to usual care or to an alternative intervention, on at least one of the following primary outcomes: patient health outcomes, clinical process or efficiency outcomes or secondary outcomes (collaborative behaviour). We searched CENTRAL (2015, issue 11), MEDLINE, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform to November 2015. We handsearched relevant interprofessional journals to November 2015, and reviewed the reference lists of the included studies. We included randomised trials of practice-based IPC interventions involving health and social care professionals compared to usual care or to an alternative intervention. Two review authors independently assessed the eligibility of each potentially relevant study. We extracted data from the included studies and assessed the risk of bias of each study. We were unable to perform a meta-analysis of study outcomes, given the small number of included studies and their heterogeneity in clinical settings, interventions and outcomes. Consequently, we summarised the study data and presented the results in a narrative format to report study methods, outcomes, impact and certainty of the evidence. We included nine studies in total (6540 participants); six cluster-randomised trials and three individual randomised trials (1 study randomised clinicians, 1 randomised patients, and 1 randomised clinicians and patients). All studies were conducted in high-income countries (Australia, Belgium, Sweden, UK and USA) across primary, secondary, tertiary and community care settings and had a follow-up of up to 12

  17. Novel apigenin-loaded sodium hyaluronate nano-assemblies for targeting tumor cells.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Ting; He, Yue; Chen, Huali; Bai, Yan; Hu, Wenjing; Zhang, Liangke

    2017-12-01

    We aimed to construct a novel nano-assembly carrying apigenin (APG), a hydrophobic drug, and to evaluate its in vitro targeting ability for A549 cells overexpressing CD44 receptors. The apigenin-loaded sodium hyaluronate nano-assemblies (APG/SH-NAs) were assembled by multiple non-covalent interactions between sodium hyaluronate (SH) and APG. The prepared APG/SH-NAs exhibited a small average size and narrow particle size distribution. In addition, satisfactory encapsulation efficiency and drug loading were obtained. The drug release curves indicated that APG/SH-NAs achieved a sustainable drug-release effect due to the presence of hydrophilic materials. The in vitro cytotoxicity of APG/SH-NAs against A549 cells and HepG2 cells was evaluated, and the results indicated that the prepared APG/SH-NA showed higher cytotoxicity compared to apigenin suspensions. When CD44 receptors on the surface of A549 cells were blocked by the addition of excess SH, the cytotoxicity of APG/SH-NA was significantly reduced. However, similar phenomena were not observed in HepG2 cells with relatively low CD44 receptor expression. The resulting APG/SH-NAs could efficiently facilitate the internalization of APG into A549 cells, which might be due to their high affinity for CD44 receptors. Moreover, the apoptotic rate of APG/SH-NAs through receptor-mediated endocytosis mechanism was higher than that of the other groups in A549 cells. Thus, such nano-assemblies were considered to be an effective transport system with excellent affinity for CD44 receptors to allow the SH-mediated targeted delivery of APG. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  18. Gene delivery through the use of a hyaluronate-associated intracellularly degradable cross-linked polyethyleneimine

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Peisheng; Quick, Griffin; Yeo, Yoon

    2009-01-01

    For a non-viral gene delivery system to be clinically effective, it should be non-toxic, compatible with biological components, and highly efficient in gene transfection. With this goal in mind, we investigated the gene delivery efficiency of a ternary complex consisting of DNA, an intracellularly degradable polycation, and sodium hyaluronate (DPH complex). Here, we report that the DPH ternary complex achieved significantly higher transfection efficiency than other polymer systems, especially in the presence of serum. The high transfection efficiency and serum tolerance of DPH are attributed to a unique interplay between CLPEI and HA, which leads to (i) the improved stability of DNA in the extracellular environment and at the early stage of intracellular trafficking and (ii) timely dissociation of the DNA-polymer complex. This study reinforces findings of earlier studies that emphasized each step as a bottleneck for efficient gene delivery; yet, it is the first to show that it is possible to overcome these obstacles simultaneously by taking advantage of two distinctive approaches. PMID:19631979

  19. Purchasing population health: aligning financial incentives to improve health outcomes.

    PubMed

    Kindig, D A

    1999-01-01

    To review the concept of population health, including its definition, measurement, and determinants, and to suggest an approach for aligning financial incentives toward this goal. DATA SOURCE, STUDY DESIGN, DATA EXTRACTION: Literature review, policy analysis The article presents the argument that a major reason for our slow progress toward health outcome improvement is that there is no operational definition of population health and that financial incentives are not aligned to this goal. Current attempts at process measures as indicators of quality or outcome are not adequate for the task. It is suggested that some measure of health-adjusted life expectancy be adopted for this purpose, and that integrated delivery systems and other agents responsible for nonmedical determinants be rewarded for improvement in this measure. This will require the development of an investment portfolio across the determinants of health based on relative marginal return to health, with horizontal integration strategies across sectoral boundaries. A 20-year three-phase development strategy is proposed, including components of research and acceptance, integrated health system implementation, and cross-sectoral integration. The U.S. health care system is a $1 trillion industry without a definition of its product. Until population outcome measures are developed and rewarded for, we will not solve the twenty-first century challenge of maximizing health outcome improvement for the resources available.

  20. Purchasing population health: aligning financial incentives to improve health outcomes.

    PubMed

    Kindig, D A

    1998-06-01

    To review the concept of population health, including its definition, measurement, and determinants, and to suggest an approach for aligning financial incentives toward this goal. DATA SOURCE, STUDY DESIGN, DATA EXTRACTION. Literature review, policy analysis The article presents the argument that a major reason for our slow progress toward health outcome improvement is that there is no operational definition of population health and that financial incentives are not aligned to this goal. Current attempts at process measures as indicators of quality or outcome are not adequate for the task. It is suggested that some measure of health-adjusted life expectancy be adopted for this purpose, and that integrated delivery systems and other agents responsible for nonmedical determinants be rewarded for improvement in this measure. This will require the development of an investment portfolio across the determinants of health based on relative marginal return to health, with horizontal integration strategies across sectoral boundaries. A 20-year three-phase development strategy is proposed, including components of research and acceptance, integrated health system implementation, and cross-sectoral integration. The U.S. healthcare system is a $1 trillion industry without a definition of its product. Until population outcome measures are developed and rewarded for, we will not solve the twenty-first century challenge of maximizing health outcome improvement for the resources available.

  1. Does Improving Patient-Practitioner Communication Improve Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases? A Systematic Review of the Evidence

    PubMed Central

    Schoenthaler, Antoinette; Kalet, Adina; Nicholson, Joseph; Lipkin, Mack

    2014-01-01

    Objective To conduct a systematic literature review appraising the effects of interventions to improve patient-practitioner communication on cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes. Methods Databases were searched up to March 27, 2013 to identify eligible studies that included interventions to improve patient and/or practitioner communication skills and assessment of a cardiovascular-related clinical outcome in adults ≥ 18 years of age. Results Fifteen papers were reviewed: The primary focus in seven studies was the patient; seven included a practitioner-focused intervention and one targeted both. Two patient-focused and two practitioner-focused studies demonstrated a beneficial effect of the intervention compared to a control group. Patient-focused studies were designed to improve patients’ information-seeking and question-asking skills with their practitioner. Practitioner-focused studies were designed to either improve practitioner’s general patient-centered communication or risk communication skills. Conclusions Few interventions targeting patient-practitioner communication have assessed the impact on cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes, limiting the ability to determine effectiveness. Additional rigorous research supported by theoretical frameworks and validated measurement is needed to understand the potential of patient-practitioner communication to improve cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes. Practice Implications Investments in communication skills trainings in medical education and practice are needed in order to attain the full potential of patient-centered care on cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes. Systematic Review Protocol Registration CRD42013006302 PMID:24795073

  2. Does influenza vaccination improve pregnancy outcome? Methodological issues and research needs.

    PubMed

    Savitz, David A; Fell, Deshayne B; Ortiz, Justin R; Bhat, Niranjan

    2015-11-25

    Evidence that influenza vaccination during pregnancy is safe and effective at preventing influenza disease in women and their children through the first months of life is increasing. Several reports of reduced risk of adverse outcomes associated with influenza vaccination have generated interest in its potential for improving pregnancy outcome. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, estimates maternal influenza immunization programs in low-income countries would have a relatively modest impact on mortality compared to other new or under-utilized vaccines, however the impact would be substantially greater if reported vaccine effects on improved pregnancy outcomes were accurate. Here, we examine the available evidence and methodological issues bearing on the relationship between influenza vaccination and pregnancy outcome, particularly preterm birth and fetal growth restriction, and summarize research needs. Evidence for absence of harm associated with vaccination at a point in time is not symmetric with evidence of benefit, given the scenario in which vaccination reduces risk of influenza disease and, in turn, risk of adverse pregnancy outcome. The empirical evidence for vaccination preventing influenza in pregnant women is strong, but the evidence that influenza itself causes adverse pregnancy outcomes is inconsistent and limited in quality. Studies of vaccination and pregnancy outcome have produced mixed evidence of potential benefit but are limited in terms of influenza disease assessment and control of confounding, and their analytic methods often fail to fully address the longitudinal nature of pregnancy and influenza prevalence. We recommend making full use of results of randomized trials, re-analysis of existing observational studies to account for confounding and time-related factors, and quantitative assessment of the potential benefits of vaccination in improving pregnancy outcome, all of which should be informed by the collective engagement of experts in influenza

  3. [Delayed Infection after Upper Lip Augmentation with Absorbable Hyaluronic Acid Filler].

    PubMed

    Heim, N; Faron, A; Wiedemeyer, V; Teschke, M; Reich, R H; Martini, M

    2015-08-01

    Since introduction of the first fillers in the 1980s a multitude of substances has been developed and approved for facial contour augmentation and correction of skin defects. Here we present the interesting case of a patient who presented to us with a delayed infection 6 weeks after augmentation of the upper lip with a hyaluronic acid. We observed full convalescence after operative and high-dose antibiotic treatment of the abscesses. Generally speaking, complications after augmentation with resorbable fillers are rare. However, complications might occur even within unexpected time periods and therefore need our special attention. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  4. Silk-fibrin/hyaluronic acid composite gels for nucleus pulposus tissue regeneration.

    PubMed

    Park, Sang-Hyug; Cho, Hongsik; Gil, Eun Seok; Mandal, Biman B; Min, Byoung-Hyun; Kaplan, David L

    2011-12-01

    Scaffold designs are critical for in vitro culture of tissue-engineered cartilage in three-dimensional environments to enhance cellular differentiation for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In the present study we demonstrated silk and fibrin/hyaluronic acid (HA) composite gels as scaffolds for nucleus pulposus (NP) cartilage formation, providing both biochemical support for NP outcomes as well as fostering the retention of size of the scaffold during culture due to the combined features of the two proteins. Passage two (P2) human chondrocytes cultured in 10% serum were encapsulated within silk-fibrin/HA gels. Five study groups with fibrin/HA gel culture (F/H) along with varying silk concentrations (2% silk gel only, fibrin/HA gel culture with 1% silk [F/H+1S], 1.5% silk [F/H+1.5S], and 2% silk [F/H+2S]) were cultured in serum-free chondrogenic defined media (CDM) for 4 weeks. Histological examination with alcian blue showed a defined chondrogenic area at 1 week in all groups that widened homogenously until 4 weeks. In particular, chondrogenic differentiation observed in the F/H+1.5S had no reduction in size throughout the culture period. The results of biochemical and molecular biological evaluations supported observations made during histological examination. Mechanical strength measurements showed that the silk mixed gels provided stronger mechanical properties for NP tissue than fibrin/HA composite gels in CDM. This effect could potentially be useful in the study of in vitro NP tissue engineering as well as for clinical implications for NP tissue regeneration.

  5. Silk-Fibrin/Hyaluronic Acid Composite Gels for Nucleus Pulposus Tissue Regeneration

    PubMed Central

    Park, Sang-Hyug; Cho, Hongsik; Gil, Eun Seok; Mandal, Biman B.; Min, Byoung-Hyun

    2011-01-01

    Scaffold designs are critical for in vitro culture of tissue-engineered cartilage in three-dimensional environments to enhance cellular differentiation for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In the present study we demonstrated silk and fibrin/hyaluronic acid (HA) composite gels as scaffolds for nucleus pulposus (NP) cartilage formation, providing both biochemical support for NP outcomes as well as fostering the retention of size of the scaffold during culture due to the combined features of the two proteins. Passage two (P2) human chondrocytes cultured in 10% serum were encapsulated within silk-fibrin/HA gels. Five study groups with fibrin/HA gel culture (F/H) along with varying silk concentrations (2% silk gel only, fibrin/HA gel culture with 1% silk [F/H+1S], 1.5% silk [F/H+1.5S], and 2% silk [F/H+2S]) were cultured in serum-free chondrogenic defined media (CDM) for 4 weeks. Histological examination with alcian blue showed a defined chondrogenic area at 1 week in all groups that widened homogenously until 4 weeks. In particular, chondrogenic differentiation observed in the F/H+1.5S had no reduction in size throughout the culture period. The results of biochemical and molecular biological evaluations supported observations made during histological examination. Mechanical strength measurements showed that the silk mixed gels provided stronger mechanical properties for NP tissue than fibrin/HA composite gels in CDM. This effect could potentially be useful in the study of in vitro NP tissue engineering as well as for clinical implications for NP tissue regeneration. PMID:21736446

  6. Disease management improves end-stage renal disease outcomes.

    PubMed

    Sands, Jeffrey J

    2006-01-01

    Renal disease management organizations have reported achieving significant decreases in mortality and hospitalization in conjunction with cost savings, improved patient satisfaction and quality of life. Disease management organizations strive to fill existing gaps in care delivery through the standardized use of risk assessment, predictive modeling, evidence-based guidelines, and process and outcomes measurement. Patient self-management education and the provision of individual nurse care managers are also key program components. As we more fully measure clinical outcomes and total healthcare costs, including payments from all insurance and government entities, pharmacy costs and out of pocket expenditures, the full implications of disease management can be better defined. The results of this analysis will have a profound influence on United States healthcare policy. At present current data suggest that the promise of disease management, improved care at reduced cost, can and is being realized in end-stage renal disease. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  7. Improved Binocular Outcomes Following Binocular Treatment for Childhood Amblyopia

    PubMed Central

    Kelly, Krista R.; Jost, Reed M.; Wang, Yi-Zhong; Dao, Lori; Beauchamp, Cynthia L.; Leffler, Joel N.; Birch, Eileen E.

    2018-01-01

    Purpose Childhood amblyopia can be treated with binocular games or movies that rebalance contrast between the eyes, which is thought to reduce depth of interocular suppression so the child can experience binocular vision. While visual acuity gains have been reported following binocular treatment, studies rarely report gains in binocular outcomes (i.e., stereoacuity, suppression) in amblyopic children. Here, we evaluated binocular outcomes in children who had received binocular treatment for childhood amblyopia. Methods Data for amblyopic children enrolled in two ongoing studies were pooled. The sample included 41 amblyopic children (6 strabismic, 21 anisometropic, 14 combined; age 4–10 years; ≤4 prism diopters [PD]) who received binocular treatment (20 game, 21 movies; prescribed 9–10 hours treatment). Amblyopic eye visual acuity and binocular outcomes (Randot Preschool Stereoacuity, extent of suppression, and depth of suppression) were assessed at baseline and at 2 weeks. Results Mean amblyopic eye visual acuity (P < 0.001) and mean stereoacuity improved (P = 0.045), and mean extent (P = 0.005) and depth of suppression (P = 0.003) were reduced from baseline at the 2-week visit (87% game adherence, 100% movie adherence). Depth of suppression was reduced more in children aged <8 years than in those aged ≥8 years (P = 0.004). Worse baseline depth of suppression was correlated with a larger depth of suppression reduction at 2 weeks (P = 0.001). Conclusions After 2 weeks, binocular treatment in amblyopic children improved visual acuity and binocular outcomes, reducing the extent and depth of suppression and improving stereoacuity. Binocular treatments that rebalance contrast to overcome suppression are a promising additional option for treating amblyopia. PMID:29625442

  8. Improved Binocular Outcomes Following Binocular Treatment for Childhood Amblyopia.

    PubMed

    Kelly, Krista R; Jost, Reed M; Wang, Yi-Zhong; Dao, Lori; Beauchamp, Cynthia L; Leffler, Joel N; Birch, Eileen E

    2018-03-01

    Childhood amblyopia can be treated with binocular games or movies that rebalance contrast between the eyes, which is thought to reduce depth of interocular suppression so the child can experience binocular vision. While visual acuity gains have been reported following binocular treatment, studies rarely report gains in binocular outcomes (i.e., stereoacuity, suppression) in amblyopic children. Here, we evaluated binocular outcomes in children who had received binocular treatment for childhood amblyopia. Data for amblyopic children enrolled in two ongoing studies were pooled. The sample included 41 amblyopic children (6 strabismic, 21 anisometropic, 14 combined; age 4-10 years; ≤4 prism diopters [PD]) who received binocular treatment (20 game, 21 movies; prescribed 9-10 hours treatment). Amblyopic eye visual acuity and binocular outcomes (Randot Preschool Stereoacuity, extent of suppression, and depth of suppression) were assessed at baseline and at 2 weeks. Mean amblyopic eye visual acuity (P < 0.001) and mean stereoacuity improved (P = 0.045), and mean extent (P = 0.005) and depth of suppression (P = 0.003) were reduced from baseline at the 2-week visit (87% game adherence, 100% movie adherence). Depth of suppression was reduced more in children aged <8 years than in those aged ≥8 years (P = 0.004). Worse baseline depth of suppression was correlated with a larger depth of suppression reduction at 2 weeks (P = 0.001). After 2 weeks, binocular treatment in amblyopic children improved visual acuity and binocular outcomes, reducing the extent and depth of suppression and improving stereoacuity. Binocular treatments that rebalance contrast to overcome suppression are a promising additional option for treating amblyopia.

  9. Development of an Injectable Calcium Phosphate/Hyaluronic Acid Microparticles System for Platelet Lysate Sustained Delivery Aiming Bone Regeneration.

    PubMed

    Babo, Pedro S; Santo, Vítor E; Gomes, Manuela E; Reis, Rui L

    2016-11-01

    Despite the biocompatibility and osteoinductive properties of calcium phosphate (CaP) cements their low biodegradability hampers full bone regeneration. Herein the incorporation of CaP cement with hyaluronic acid (HAc) microparticles loaded with platelet lysate (PL) to improve the degradability and biological performance of the cements is proposed. Cement formulations incorporating increasing weight ratios of either empty HAc microparticles or microparticles loaded with PL (10 and 20 wt%) are developed as well as cements directly incorporating PL. The direct incorporation of PL improves the mechanical properties of the plain cement, reaching values similar to native bone. Morphological analysis shows homogeneous particle distribution and high interconnectivity between the HAc microparticles. The cements incorporating PL (with or without the HAc microparticles) present a sustained release of PL proteins for up to 8 d. The sustained release of PL modulates the expression of osteogenic markers in seeded human adipose tissue derived stem cells, thus suggesting the stimulatory role of this hybrid system toward osteogenic commitment and bone regeneration applications. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  10. The composition and physicochemical properties of hyaluronic acids prepared from ox synovial fluid and from a case of mesothelioma

    PubMed Central

    Preston, B. N.; Davies, M.; Ogston, A. G.

    1965-01-01

    1. Materials containing hyaluronic acid have been prepared by filtration (Ogston & Stanier, 1950) from ox synovial fluid and from a protein-rich human mesothelioma fluid. The ox material has been deproteinized by treatment with chloroform and pentanol and by gradient elution on DEAE-Sephadex; several fractions were obtained by the latter method. These materials can be stored in solution at −20° without change of properties. The ox material contained 21% of protein; all other preparations contained less than 6% of protein. 2. The two materials have been compared by sedimentation and viscosity and shown to be closely similar. Treatment of the ox material with neuraminidase caused no change in its viscosity behaviour. 3. Information about the molecular configuration of the ox material has been obtained from measurements of light-scattering and viscosity. The results, though consistent with a highly extended configuration, are not consistent with a linear random-coil configuration. It is tentatively suggested that the structure may have some degree of branching and of cross-linking, which give it a rigidity with respect to expansion of the molecular domain that would not be possessed by a random coil. 4. The deproteinized material recovered from DEAE-Sephadex, though polydisperse, showed unchanged average molecular weight; however, the average radius of gyration was greater than before this treatment. 5. Acidification to approx. pH3 resulted in a contraction of the structure, with only a slight degree of expansion when the pH was restored to 6·8–7·0. 6. Measurements of optical rotatory dispersion qualitatively support a structure less simple than a linear random coil. 7. Colloid osmotic pressures of mixed solutions of bovine serum albumin and of hyaluronic acid prepared by filtration from ox synovial fluid have been measured. The results agree approximately with those of Laurent & Ogston (1963) but are in quantitative disagreement with the partition measurements

  11. Aligning Organizational Priorities with ARC to Improve Youth Mental Health Service Outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Glisson, Charles; Williams, Nathaniel J.; Hemmelgarn, Anthony; Procter, Enola; Green, Philip

    2016-01-01

    Objective The ARC organizational intervention was designed to improve community-based youth mental health services by aligning organizational priorities with five principles of effective service organizations (i.e., mission-driven, results-oriented, improvement-directed, relationship-centered, participation-based). This study assessed the effect of the ARC intervention on youth outcomes and the mediating role of organizational priorities as a mechanism linking the ARC intervention to outcomes. Methodology Fourteen community-based mental health agencies in a Midwestern metropolis along with 475 clinicians and 605 youth (aged 5–18) served by those agencies were randomly assigned to the three-year ARC intervention or control condition. The agencies’ priorities were measured with the ARC Principles Questionnaire (APQ) completed by clinicians at the end of the intervention. Youth outcomes were measured as total problems in psychosocial functioning described by their caregivers using the Shortform Assessment for Children (SAC) at six monthly intervals. Results The rate of improvement in youths’ psychosocial functioning in agencies assigned to the ARC condition was 1.6 times the rate of improvement in agencies assigned to the control condition, creating a standardized difference in functioning of d = .23 between the two groups at the six month follow-up. The effect on youth outcomes was fully mediated by the alignment of organizational priorities described in the five ARC principles (d = .21). Conclusions The ARC organizational intervention improves youth outcomes by aligning organizational priorities with the five ARC principles. The findings suggest that organizational priorities explain why some community mental health agencies are more effective than others. PMID:27253202

  12. [The influence of sodium hyaluronate solution and artificial tears on higher-order aberrations].

    PubMed

    Yamashita, Tsutomu; Ochi, Shintarou; Inoue, Yasushi; Miki, Atsushi; Kiryu, Junichi; Tabuchi, Akio

    2013-12-01

    To investigate the influence of sodium hyaluronate solution (HA) and artificial tears (AT) on higher-order aberrations (HOAs). Twenty four eyes of 24 normal subjects and 11 eyes of 11 dry eye patients were examined. Cornea and ocular wavefront aberrations (total, spherical-like and coma-like) were measured with a Hartmann-Shack wavefront aberrometer before and after 0.1% or 0.3% HA, AT. The consecutively obtained data of the cornea and ocular HOAs were analyzed in the central 4-mm diameter for coma-like, spherical-like and total HOAs. Average HOAs, as well as fluctuation index (FI) and stability index (SI) of the HOAs over time were compared between the two groups. In normal subjects, the AVE of all aberration parameters and FI showed an increase depending on viscosity of the HA (p < 0.001). After AT and 0.1% HA treatment the cornea aberration of the dry eye patients changed from a sawtooth pattern to a stable pattern. Cornea HOAs decreased, and the optical characteristics showed improvement after AT and 0.1% HA in the dry eye patients. HOAs increased depending on the viscosity of the HA, and optical stability worsened.

  13. Blinded evaluation of the effects of hyaluronic acid filler injections on first impressions.

    PubMed

    Dayan, Steven H; Arkins, John P; Gal, Thomas J

    2010-11-01

    Facial appearance has profound influence on the first impression that is projected to others. To determine the effects that complete correction of the nasolabial folds (NLFs) with hyaluronic acid (HA) filler has on the first impression one makes. Twenty-two subjects received injections of HA filler into the NLFs. Photographs of the face in a relaxed pose were taken at baseline, optimal correction visit, and 4 weeks after optimal correction. Three hundred four blinded evaluators completed a survey rating first impression on various measures of success for each photo. In total, 5,776 first impressions were recorded, totaling 46,208 individual assessments of first impression. Our findings indicate a significant improvement in mean first impression in the categories of dating success, attractiveness, financial success, relationship success, athletic success, and overall first impression at the optimal correction visit. At 4 weeks after the optimal correction visit, significance was observed in all categories measured: social skills, academic performance, dating success, occupational success, attractiveness, financial success, relationship success, athletic success, and overall first impression. Full correction of the NLFs with HA filler significantly and positively influences the first impression an individual projects. © 2010 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.

  14. The effect of hyaluronic acid addition on the properties of smoked homogenised sausages.

    PubMed

    Zając, Marzena; Kulawik, Piotr; Tkaczewska, Joanna; Migdał, Władysław; Filipczak-Fiutak, Magda; Fiutak, Grzegorz

    2017-06-01

    This research studied the possibility of using hyaluronic acid (HA) as a food additive for meat emulsions to create a novel functional food with improved rheological and water binding properties. Sausages with 200 and 500 g kg -1 water addition were supplemented with 0, 0.01, 0.05 and 0.1 g kg -1 of HA and stored for 14 days in vacuum. Rheology, texture, weight losses, proximate composition and microbiological analyses were performed together with the sensory evaluation of produced sausages. Surprisingly, the results show that the addition of 0.05 and 0.1 g kg -1 HA reduced yield and the stability of meat emulsion by causing water outflow from the product and decreased the sensory scores of the produced sausages. The sausage with 500 g kg -1 water and 0.01 g kg -1 HA addition was the only economically viable option for introducing the product on the market. HA has a potential of being a perfect functional food additive for meat industry, although further research regarding processing conditions should be performed. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

  15. 3D bioprinting of methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA) hydrogel with intrinsic osteogenicity.

    PubMed

    Poldervaart, Michelle T; Goversen, Birgit; de Ruijter, Mylene; Abbadessa, Anna; Melchels, Ferry P W; Öner, F Cumhur; Dhert, Wouter J A; Vermonden, Tina; Alblas, Jacqueline

    2017-01-01

    In bone regenerative medicine there is a need for suitable bone substitutes. Hydrogels have excellent biocompatible and biodegradable characteristics, but their visco-elastic properties limit their applicability, especially with respect to 3D bioprinting. In this study, we modified the naturally occurring extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan hyaluronic acid (HA), in order to yield photo-crosslinkable hydrogels with increased mechanical stiffness and long-term stability, and with minimal decrease in cytocompatibility. Application of these tailor-made methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA) gels for bone tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting was the subject of investigation. Visco-elastic properties of MeHA gels, measured by rheology and dynamic mechanical analysis, showed that irradiation of the hydrogels with UV light led to increased storage moduli and elastic moduli, indicating increasing gel rigidity. Subsequently, human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were incorporated into MeHA hydrogels, and cell viability remained 64.4% after 21 days of culture. Osteogenic differentiation of MSCs occurred spontaneously in hydrogels with high concentrations of MeHA polymer, in absence of additional osteogenic stimuli. Addition of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) to the culture medium further increased osteogenic differentiation, as evidenced by increased matrix mineralisation. MeHA hydrogels demonstrated to be suitable for 3D bioprinting, and were printed into porous and anatomically shaped scaffolds. Taken together, photosensitive MeHA-based hydrogels fulfilled our criteria for cellular bioprinted bone constructs within a narrow window of concentration.

  16. 3D bioprinting of methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA) hydrogel with intrinsic osteogenicity

    PubMed Central

    Poldervaart, Michelle T.; Goversen, Birgit; de Ruijter, Mylene; Abbadessa, Anna; Melchels, Ferry P. W.; Öner, F. Cumhur; Dhert, Wouter J. A.; Vermonden, Tina

    2017-01-01

    In bone regenerative medicine there is a need for suitable bone substitutes. Hydrogels have excellent biocompatible and biodegradable characteristics, but their visco-elastic properties limit their applicability, especially with respect to 3D bioprinting. In this study, we modified the naturally occurring extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan hyaluronic acid (HA), in order to yield photo-crosslinkable hydrogels with increased mechanical stiffness and long-term stability, and with minimal decrease in cytocompatibility. Application of these tailor-made methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MeHA) gels for bone tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting was the subject of investigation. Visco-elastic properties of MeHA gels, measured by rheology and dynamic mechanical analysis, showed that irradiation of the hydrogels with UV light led to increased storage moduli and elastic moduli, indicating increasing gel rigidity. Subsequently, human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were incorporated into MeHA hydrogels, and cell viability remained 64.4% after 21 days of culture. Osteogenic differentiation of MSCs occurred spontaneously in hydrogels with high concentrations of MeHA polymer, in absence of additional osteogenic stimuli. Addition of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) to the culture medium further increased osteogenic differentiation, as evidenced by increased matrix mineralisation. MeHA hydrogels demonstrated to be suitable for 3D bioprinting, and were printed into porous and anatomically shaped scaffolds. Taken together, photosensitive MeHA-based hydrogels fulfilled our criteria for cellular bioprinted bone constructs within a narrow window of concentration. PMID:28586346

  17. Blood cells transcriptomics as source of potential biomarkers of articular health improvement: effects of oral intake of a rooster combs extract rich in hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Sánchez, Juana; Bonet, M Luisa; Keijer, Jaap; van Schothorst, Evert M; Mölller, Ingrid; Chetrit, Carles; Martinez-Puig, Daniel; Palou, Andreu

    2014-09-01

    The aim of the study was to explore peripheral blood gene expression as a source of biomarkers of joint health improvement related to glycosaminoglycan (GAG) intake in humans. Healthy individuals with joint discomfort were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled intervention study in humans. Subjects ate control yoghurt or yoghurt supplemented with a recently authorized novel food in Europe containing hyaluronic acid (65 %) from rooster comb (Mobilee™ as commercial name) for 90 days. Effects on functional quality-of-life parameters related to joint health were assessed. Whole-genome microarray analysis of peripheral blood samples from a subset of 20 subjects (10 placebo and 10 supplemented) collected pre- and post-intervention was performed. Mobilee™ supplementation reduced articular pain intensity and synovial effusion and improved knee muscular strength indicators as compared to placebo. About 157 coding genes were differentially expressed in blood cells between supplemented and placebo groups post-intervention, but not pre-intervention (p < 0.05; fold change ≥1.2). Among them, a reduced gene expression of glucuronidase-beta (GUSB), matrix metallopeptidase 23B (MMP23B), xylosyltransferase II (XYLT2), and heparan sulfate 6-O-sulfotransferase 1 (HS6ST1) was found in the supplemented group. Correlation analysis indicated a direct relationship between blood cell gene expression of MMP23B, involved in the breakdown of the extracellular matrix, and pain intensity, and an inverse relationship between blood cell gene expression of HS6ST1, responsible for 6-O-sulfation of heparan sulfate, and indicators of knee muscular strength. Expression levels of specific genes in blood cells, in particular genes related to GAG metabolism and extracellular matrix dynamics, are potential biomarkers of beneficial effects on articular health.

  18. Germany's Disease Management Program: Improving Outcomes in Congestive Heart Failure

    PubMed Central

    Kottmair, Stefan; Frye, Christian; Ziegenhagen, Dieter J.

    2005-01-01

    Hospital admissions among patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) are a major contributor to health care costs. A comprehensive disease management program for CHF was developed for private and statutory health insurance companies in order to improve health outcomes and reduce rehospitalization rates and costs. The program comprises care calls, written training material, telemetric monitoring, and health reports. Currently, 909 members from six insurance companies are enrolled. Routine evaluation, based on medical data warehouse software, demonstrates benefits in terms of improved health outcomes and processes of care. Economical evaluation of claims data indicates significant cost savings in a pre/post study design. PMID:17288080

  19. Improving Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: An Intervention Study

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-10-01

    AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-16-1-0741 TITLE: Improving Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: An Intervention Study ...2017 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Improving Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: An Intervention Study 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER...executive function in several pediatric populations, but has not been studied in the CHD population. 15. SUBJECT TERMS- 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF

  20. Intravesical administration of combined hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) for the treatment of female recurrent urinary tract infections: a European multicentre nested case-control study.

    PubMed

    Ciani, Oriana; Arendsen, Erik; Romancik, Martin; Lunik, Richard; Costantini, Elisabetta; Di Biase, Manuel; Morgia, Giuseppe; Fragalà, Eugenia; Roman, Tomaskin; Bernat, Marian; Guazzoni, Giorgio; Tarricone, Rosanna; Lazzeri, Massimo

    2016-03-31

    To compare the clinical effectiveness of the intravesical administration of combined hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate (HA+CS) versus current standard management in adult women with recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTIs). A European Union-based multicentre, retrospective nested case-control study. 276 adult women treated for RUTIs starting from 2009 to 2013. Patients treated with either intravesical administration of HA+CS or standard of care (antimicrobial/immunoactive prophylaxis/probiotics/cranberry). The primary outcome was occurrence of bacteriologically confirmed recurrence within 12 months. Secondary outcomes were time to recurrence, total number of recurrences, health-related quality of life and healthcare resource consumption. Crude and adjusted results for unbalanced characteristics are presented. 181 patients treated with HA+CS and 95 patients treated with standard of care from 7 centres were included. The crude and adjusted ORs (95% CI) for the primary end point were 0.77 (0.46 to 1.28) and 0.51 (0.27 to 0.96), respectively. However, no evidence of improvement in terms of total number of recurrences (incidence rate ratio (95% CI), 0.99 (0.69 to 1.43)) or time to first recurrence was seen (HR (95% CI), 0.99 (0.61 to 1.61)). The benefit of intravesical HA+CS therapy improves when the number of instillations is ≥ 5. Our results show that bladder instillations of combined HA+CS reduce the risk of bacteriologically confirmed recurrences compared with the current standard management of RUTIs. Total incidence rates and hazard rates were instead non-significantly different between the 2 groups after adjusting for unbalanced factors. In contrast to what happens with antibiotic prophylaxis, the effectiveness of the HA+CS reinstatement therapy improves over time. NCT02016118. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  1. Preparation of hyaluronic acid micro-hydrogel by biotin-avidin-specific bonding for doxorubicin-targeted delivery.

    PubMed

    Cui, Yuan; Li, Yanhui; Duan, Qian; Kakuchi, Toyoji

    2013-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a naturally ionic polysaccharide with cancer cell selectivity. It is an ideal candidate material for delivery of anticancer agents. In this study, hyaluronic acid (HA) micro-hydrogel loaded with anticancer drugs was prepared by the biotin-avidin system approach. Firstly, carboxyl groups on HA were changed into amino groups with adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH) to graft with biotin by 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride named as HA-biotin. When HA-biotin solution mixed with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX·HCl) was blended with neutravidin, the micro-hydrogels would be formed with DOX loading. If excess biotin was added into the microgel, it would be disjointed, and DOX will be released quickly. The results of the synthesis procedure were characterized by (1)H-NMR and FTIR; ADH and biotin have been demonstrated to graft on the HA molecule. A field emission scanning electron microscope was used to observe morphologies of HA micro-hydrogels. Furthermore, the in vitro DOX release results revealed that the release behaviors can be adjusted by adding biotin. Therefore, the HA micro-hydrogel can deliver anticancer drugs efficiently, and the rate of release can be controlled by biotin-specific bonding with the neutravidin. Consequently, the micro-hydrogel will perform the promising property of switching in the specific site in cancer therapy.

  2. Review of family-based approaches to improve postoperative outcomes among bariatric surgery patients.

    PubMed

    Vidot, Denise C; Prado, Guillermo; De La Cruz-Munoz, Nestor; Cuesta, Melissa; Spadola, Christine; Messiah, Sarah E

    2015-01-01

    Bariatric surgery must be partnered with postoperative lifestyle modifications for enduring weight loss and related health effects to be fully appreciated. Little is known about how these lifestyle modifications may be affected by the involvement of other family members living in the household; therefore, this review describes current family-based approaches to improving postoperative outcomes in bariatric surgery patients and their families. A MEDLINE search of publications from 1999 to 2014 was conducted in January 2014. Retrieved titles and abstracts were assessed by 2 authors to determine relevance to the topic surrounding family-based approaches to improve postbariatric surgery outcomes. All study designs except case studies were considered if they included some aspect of family as a predictor in relation to improved health outcomes after surgery. Initial searches yielded 650 publications (bariatric surgery+family, n = 193; bariatric surgery+child, n = 338; bariatric surgery+spouse, n = 4; bariatric surgery+social support, n = 115). Two studies met criteria for a family-based approach to improving metabolic outcomes in bariatric patients. Seven studies discussed the impact of bariatric surgery on families. All other studies were excluded for not discussing family-based approaches. Despite limited documentation of family-based approaches on improving health outcomes in patients who underwent bariatric surgery, evidence suggests that such an approach may be advantageous if planned a priori to occur before, during, and after bariatric surgery. Future studies could test the combination of bariatric surgery and a family-based approach for improved metabolic outcomes in both the patient and involved family member(s). Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Non-surgical treatment of deep wounds triggered by harmful physical and chemical agents: a successful combined use of collagenase and hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Onesti, Maria G; Fino, Pasquale; Ponzo, Ida; Ruggieri, Martina; Scuderi, Nicolò

    2016-02-01

    Some chronic ulcers often occur with slough, not progressing through the normal stages of wound healing. Treatment is long and other therapies need to be performed in addition to surgery. Patients not eligible for surgery because of ASA class (American Society of Anesthesiologists class) appear to benefit from chemical therapy with collagenase or hydrocolloids in order to prepare the wound bed, promoting the healing process. We describe four cases of traumatic, upper limb deep wounds caused by different physical and chemical agents, emphasising the effectiveness of treatment based on topical application of collagenase and hyaluronic acid (HA) before standardised surgical procedures. We performed careful disinfection of lesions combined with application of topical cream containing hyaluronic acid, bacterial fermented sodium hyaluronate (0·2%w/w) salt, and bacterial collagenase obtained from non-pathogenic Vibrio alginolyticus (>2·0 nkat1/g). In one patient a dermo-epidermal graft was used to cover the wide loss of substance. In two patients application of a HA-based dermal substitute was done. We obtained successful results in terms of wound healing, with satisfactory aesthetic result and optimal recovery of the affected limb functionality. Topical application of collagenase and HA, alone or before standardised surgical procedures allows faster wound healing. © 2014 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2014 Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  4. Effect of molecular weight of hyaluronic acid (HA) on viscoelasticity and particle texturing feel of HA dermal biphasic fillers.

    PubMed

    Chun, Cheolbyong; Lee, Deuk Yong; Kim, Jin-Tae; Kwon, Mi-Kyung; Kim, Young-Zu; Kim, Seok-Soon

    2016-01-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal biphasic fillers are synthesized for their efficacy in correcting aesthetic defects such as wrinkles, scars and facial contouring defects. The fillers consist of crosslinked HA microspheres suspended in a noncrosslinked HA. To extend the duration of HAs within the dermis and obtain the particle texturing feel, HAs are crosslinked to obtain the suitable mechanical properties. Hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal biphasic fillers are prepared by mixing the crosslinked HA microspheres and the noncrosslinked HAs. The elastic modulus of the fillers increased with raising the volume fraction of the microspheres. The mechanical properties and the particle texturing feel of the fillers made from crosslinked HA (1058 kDa) microspheres suspended in noncrosslinked HA (1368 kDa) are successfully achieved, which are adequate for the fillers. Dermal biphasic HA fillers made from 1058 kDa exhibit suitable elastic moduli (211 to 420 Pa) and particle texturing feel (scale 7 ~ 9).

  5. Fabrication of Biopolymer Nanofibers of Hyaluronic Acid via Electrospinning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Young, Denice; Queen, Hailey; Krause, Wendy

    2006-03-01

    Electrospinning is a novel technology that uses an electric field to form fibrous materials from a polymer solution. Unlike traditional spinning techniques, electrospinning can produce fibers on the order of 100 nm that can be utilized in applications where nanoscale fibers are necessary for successful implementation, including tissue engineering. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a widely used biopolymer found in the extracellular matrix and currently marketed in medical applications for joint lubrications and tissue engineering. The high viscosity and surface tension of HA make it an unlikely candidate for electrospinning processes as viscosity is an important parameter in successful electrospinning. To promote HA fiber formation by electrospinning, the effects of salt (NaCl), which is used to reduce the viscosity of aqueous HA solutions; molecular weight of the HA; and an additional biocompatible polymer (e.g., PEO) are under investigation.

  6. Inclusion complex from cyclodextrin-grafted hyaluronic acid and pseudo protein as biodegradable nano-delivery vehicle for gambogic acid.

    PubMed

    Ji, Ying; Shan, Shuo; He, Mingyu; Chu, Chih-Chang

    2017-10-15

    β-Cyclodextrin can form inclusion complex with a series of guest molecules including phenyl moieties, and has gained considerable popularity in the study of supramolecular nanostructure. In this study, a biodegradable nanocomplex (HA(CD)-4Phe4 nanocomplex) was developed from β-cyclodextrin grafted hyaluronic acid (HA) and phenylalanine based poly(ester amide). The phenylalanine based poly(ester amide) is a biodegradable pseudo protein which provides the encapsulation capacity for gambogic acid (GA), a naturally-derived chemotherapeutic which has been effectively employed to treat multidrug resistant tumor. The therapeutic potency of free GA is limited due to its poor solubility in water and the lack of tumor-selective toxicity. The nanocomplex carrier enhanced the solubility and availability of GA in aqueous media, and the HA component enabled the targeted delivery to tumor cells with overexpression of CD44 receptors. In the presence of hyaluronidase, the release of GA from the nanocomplex was significantly accelerated, due to the enzymatic biodegradation of the carrier. Compared to free GA, GA-loaded nanocomplex exhibited improved cytotoxicity in MDA-MB-435/MDR multidrug resistant melanoma cells, and induced enhanced level of apoptosis and mitochondrial depolarization, at low concentration of GA (1-2µM). The nanocomplex enhanced the therapeutic potency of GA, especially when diluted in physiological environment. In addition, suppressed matrix metalloproteinase activity was also detected in MDA-MB-435/MDR cells treated by GA-loaded nanocomplex, which demonstrated its potency in the inhibition of tumor metastasis. The in vitro data suggested that HA(CD)-4Phe4 nanocomplex could provide a promising alternative in the treatment of multidrug resistant tumor cells. Gambogic acid (GA), naturally derived from genus Garcinia trees, exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against multiple types of tumors with resistance to traditional chemotherapeutics. Unfortunately

  7. A Meta-Analysis of Educational Data Mining on Improvements in Learning Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    AlShammari, Iqbal A.; Aldhafiri, Mohammed D.; Al-Shammari, Zaid

    2013-01-01

    A meta-synthesis study was conducted of 60 research studies on educational data mining (EDM) and their impacts on and outcomes for improving learning outcomes. After an overview, an examination of these outcomes is provided (Romero, Ventura, Espejo, & Hervas, 2008; Romero, "et al.", 2011). Then, a review of other EDM-related research…

  8. The treatment of vesicoureteral reflux in children by endoscopic sub-mucosal intra-ureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid: A case-series, multi-centre study.

    PubMed

    Bawazir, Osama

    2017-04-01

    Vesicoureteral reflux is a risk factor for progressive renal damage. In addition to long-term antibiotic prophylaxis and open surgical re-implantation, endoscopic sub-mucosal intra-ureteral injection of implant material is a therapeutic alternative that gained a world-wide preference. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of the implant material, dextranomer/hyaluronic acid, in a cohort of Saudi children with vesicoureteral reflux. In this case-series study, 61 patients with vesicoureteral reflux, who were 7 months to 10 years old (mean age 2.6 years), underwent sub-mucosal intra-ureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid at our institutions in the period from October 2003 to October 2013. The operative protocol was the same in all institutions. Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid was injected submucosally within the intramural ureter (modified STING). Renal ultrasonography was performed to detect the presence of hydronephrosis. At 6 weeks' fluoroscopic voiding cystourethrograms were used to evaluate the success of the technique. Data were analysed by SPSS version 19 using Pearson Chi square, Fisher's Exact and Cramér's V test. Reflux was corrected in 44 patients out of 61 (72.13%) and in 60 (75.00%) out of 80 ureteric units. Statistically, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in success rate of the technique according to gender, age group and unilateral vs. bilateral cases. The success rate was significantly (p=0.025) higher in the lower grades (I-III) (87.50%) compared to grade IV (73.53%) and grade V (50.00%). No complications related to the technique were reported. The technique had failed in 17 patients (27.87%) or 20 ureters (25.00%). These cases underwent open surgery. Sub-mucosal intra-ureteral implantation with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid by the modified STING technique is a simple, safe and effective outpatient procedure for vesicoureteral reflux.

  9. Trial protocol OPPTIMUM– Does progesterone prophylaxis for the prevention of preterm labour improve outcome?

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Preterm birth is a global problem, with a prevalence of 8 to 12% depending on location. Several large trials and systematic reviews have shown progestogens to be effective in preventing or delaying preterm birth in selected high risk women with a singleton pregnancy (including those with a short cervix or previous preterm birth). Although an improvement in short term neonatal outcomes has been shown in some trials these have not consistently been confirmed in meta-analyses. Additionally data on longer term outcomes is limited to a single trial where no difference in outcomes was demonstrated at four years of age of the child, despite those in the “progesterone” group having a lower incidence of preterm birth. Methods/Design The OPPTIMUM study is a double blind randomized placebo controlled trial to determine whether progesterone prophylaxis to prevent preterm birth has long term neonatal or infant benefit. Specifically it will study whether, in women with singleton pregnancy and at high risk of preterm labour, prophylactic vaginal natural progesterone, 200 mg daily from 22 – 34 weeks gestation, compared to placebo, improves obstetric outcome by lengthening pregnancy thus reducing the incidence of preterm delivery (before 34 weeks), improves neonatal outcome by reducing a composite of death and major morbidity, and leads to improved childhood cognitive and neurosensory outcomes at two years of age. Recruitment began in 2009 and is scheduled to close in Spring 2013. As of May 2012, over 800 women had been randomized in 60 sites. Discussion OPPTIMUM will provide further evidence on the effectiveness of vaginal progesterone for prevention of preterm birth and improvement of neonatal outcomes in selected groups of women with singleton pregnancy at high risk of preterm birth. Additionally it will determine whether any reduction in the incidence of preterm birth is accompanied by improved childhood outcome. Trial registration ISRCTN14568373 PMID

  10. Crosslinked hyaluronic acid dermal fillers: a comparison of rheological properties.

    PubMed

    Falcone, Samuel J; Berg, Richard A

    2008-10-01

    Temporary dermal fillers composed of crosslinked hyaluronic acid (XLHA) are space filling gels that are readily available in the United States and Europe. Several families of dermal fillers based on XLHA are now available and here we compare the physical and rheological properties of these fillers to the clinical effectiveness. The XLHA fillers are prepared with different crosslinkers, using HA isolated from different sources, have different particle sizes, and differ substantially in rheological properties. For these fillers, the magnitude of the complex viscosity, |eta*|, varies by a factor of 20, the magnitude of the complex rigidity modulus, |G*|, and the magnitude of the complex compliance, |J*| vary by a factor of 10, the percent elasticity varies from 58% to 89.9%, and the tan delta varies from 0.11 to 0.70. The available clinical data cannot be correlated with either the oscillatory dynamic or steady flow rotational rheological properties of the various fillers. However, the clinical data appear to correlate strongly with the total concentration of XLHA in the products and to a lesser extent with percent elasticity. Hence, our data suggest the following correlation: dermal filler persistence = [polymer] x [% elasticity] and the clinical persistence of a dermal filler composed of XLHA is dominated by the mass and elasticity of the material implanted. This work predicts that the development of future XLHA dermal filler formulations should focus on increasing the polymer concentration and elasticity to improve the clinical persistence.

  11. Engineered sodium hyaluronate respirable dry powders for pulmonary drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Martinelli, Francesco; Balducci, Anna Giulia; Kumar, Abhinav; Sonvico, Fabio; Forbes, Ben; Bettini, Ruggero; Buttini, Francesca

    2017-01-30

    Sodium hyaluronate (HYA) warrants attention as a material for inhalation due to its (i) therapeutic potential, (ii) utility as a formulation excipient or drug carrier, and (iii) ability to target lung inflammation and cancer. This study aimed to overcome formulation and manufacturing impediments to engineer biocompatible spray-dried HYA powders for inhalation. Novel methodology was developed to produce HYA microparticles by spray drying. Different types of surfactant were included in the formulation to improve powder respirability, which was evaluated in vitro using cascade impactors. The individual formulation components and formulated products were evaluated for their biocompatibility with A549 respiratory epithelial cells. The inclusion of stearyl surfactants, 5% w/v, produced the most respirable HYA-powders; FPF 59.0-66.3%. A trend to marginally higher respirability was observed for powders containing stearylamine>stearyl alcohol>cetostearyl alcohol. Pure HYA was biocompatible with A549 cells at all concentrations measured, but the biocompatibility of the stearyl surfactants (based on lethal concentration 50%; LC 50 ) in the MTT assay ranked stearyl alcohol>cetostearyl alcohol>stearylamine with LC 50 of 24.7, 13.2 and 1.8μg/mL, respectively. We report the first respirable HYA powders produced by spray-drying. A lead formulation containing 5% stearyl alcohol was identified for further studies aimed at translating the proposed benefits of inhaled HYA into safe and clinically effective HYA products. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Comparative study of 0.1% hyaluronic acid versus 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose in patients with dry eye associated with moderate keratitis or keratoconjunctivitis.

    PubMed

    Groß, Dorothea; Childs, Marc; Piaton, Jean-Marie

    2018-01-01

    Eye drops containing 0.1% hyaluronic acid (HA) and 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) applied one drop three times a day per affected eye were compared in patients with moderate keratitis or keratoconjunctivitis related to dry eye disease (DED). This was a prospective, randomized, multicenter, Phase IIIB noninferiority study, with a single-masked phase in parallel mode with two groups over 84 days. The primary efficacy outcome was change in ocular surface (OS) staining between day 0 (D0) and day 35 (D35). The conjunctiva and cornea were stained with lissamine green and fluorescein. Secondary efficacy measures at day 84 (D84) were OS-staining score (SS), ocular comfort index, tear-film breakup time and how patients and investigators rated treatment efficacy and safety. At D35, 0.1% HA achieved a 46.6% reduction in OS-SS (-2.03±1.35 points, n=39 patients) and 0.5% CMC treatment, followed by a 34.9% reduction (-1.61±1.69 points, n=38 patients) compared to D0. At D84, the SS difference to D0 improved by -2.58±1.45 points (-59.2%) for 0.1% HA and -2.59±2.27 points (-54.4%) for 0.5% CMC. Ocular comfort-index scores improved, with significantly lower (better) values for stinging and itching on D84 for 0.1% HA. Patients assessed treatment with 0.1% HA as significantly better than 0.5% CMC (Likert scale, 4.82 vs 3.97; P =0.018). Four adverse events (AEs) occurred in four of 41 patients (9.8%) treated with 0.1% HA, and three AEs in two of 39 patients (5.1%) treated with 0.5% CMC. No serious AEs were noted. DED signs and symptoms of DED significantly improved with both eye drops. OS staining improved >54% at D84. Treatment was well tolerated, with only minor AEs <10%. 0.1% HA and 0.5% CMC were equally safe and effective. Significant and nonsignificant results were constantly in favor of 0.1% HA.

  13. Aligning organizational priorities with ARC to improve youth mental health service outcomes.

    PubMed

    Glisson, Charles; Williams, Nathaniel J; Hemmelgarn, Anthony; Proctor, Enola; Green, Philip

    2016-08-01

    The Availability, Responsiveness, and Continuity (ARC) organizational intervention is designed to improve community-based youth mental health services by aligning organizational priorities with 5 principles of effective service organizations (i.e., mission driven, results oriented, improvement directed, relationship centered, participation based). This study assessed the effect of the ARC intervention on youth outcomes and the mediating role of organizational priorities as a mechanism linking the ARC intervention to outcomes. Fourteen community-based mental health agencies in a midwestern metropolis along with 475 clinicians and 605 youth (ages 5-18) served by those agencies were randomly assigned to the 3-year ARC intervention or control condition. The agencies' priorities were measured with the ARC Principles Questionnaire (APQ) completed by clinicians at the end of the intervention. Youth outcomes were measured as total problems in psychosocial functioning described by their caregivers using the Shortform Assessment for Children (SAC) at 6 monthly intervals. The rate of improvement in youths' psychosocial functioning in agencies assigned to the ARC condition was 1.6 times the rate of improvement in agencies assigned to the control condition, creating a standardized difference in functioning of d = .23 between the 2 groups at the 6-month follow-up. The effect on youth outcomes was fully mediated by the alignment of organizational priorities described in the 5 ARC principles (d = .21). The ARC organizational intervention improves youth outcomes by aligning organizational priorities with the 5 ARC principles. The findings suggest that organizational priorities explain why some community mental health agencies are more effective than others. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

  14. Can the national surgical quality improvement program provide surgeon-specific outcomes?

    PubMed

    Kuhnen, Angela H; Marcello, Peter W; Roberts, Patricia L; Read, Thomas E; Schoetz, David J; Rusin, Lawrence C; Hall, Jason F; Ricciardi, Rocco

    2015-02-01

    Efforts to improve the quality of surgical care and reduce morbidity and mortality have resulted in outcomes reporting at the service and institutional level. Surgeon-specific outcomes are not readily available. The aim of this study is to compare surgeon-specific outcomes from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and 100% capture institutional quality data. We conducted a cohort study evaluating institutional and surgeon-specific outcomes following colorectal surgery procedures at 1 institution over 5 years. All patients who underwent an operation by a colorectal surgeon at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center from January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2012 were identified. Thirty-day mortality, reoperation, urinary tract infection, deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, superficial surgical site infection, and organ space infection were the primary outcomes measured. We compared annual and 5-year institutional and surgeon-specific adverse event rates between the data sets. In addition, we categorized individual surgeons as low-outlier, average, or high-outlier in relation to aggregate averages and determined the concordance between the data sets in identifying outliers. Concordance was designated if the 2 databases classified outlier status similarly for the same adverse event category. In the 100% capture institutional data, 6459 operative encounters were identified in comparison with 1786 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program encounters (28% sampled). Annual aggregate adverse event rates were similar between the institutional data and the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. For annual surgeon-specific comparisons, concordance in identifying outliers between the 2 data sets was 51.4%, and gross discordance between outlier status was in 8.2%. Five-year surgeon-specific comparisons demonstrated 59% concordance in identifying outlier status with 8.2% gross discordance for the group. The inclusion of data from only 1 academic referral center is a

  15. Enzymatically crosslinked silk-hyaluronic acid hydrogels.

    PubMed

    Raia, Nicole R; Partlow, Benjamin P; McGill, Meghan; Kimmerling, Erica Palma; Ghezzi, Chiara E; Kaplan, David L

    2017-07-01

    In this study, silk fibroin and hyaluronic acid (HA) were enzymatically crosslinked to form biocompatible composite hydrogels with tunable mechanical properties similar to that of native tissues. The formation of di-tyrosine crosslinks between silk fibroin proteins via horseradish peroxidase has resulted in a highly elastic hydrogel but exhibits time-dependent stiffening related to silk self-assembly and crystallization. Utilizing the same method of crosslinking, tyramine-substituted HA forms hydrophilic and bioactive hydrogels that tend to have limited mechanics and degrade rapidly. To address the limitations of these singular component scaffolds, HA was covalently crosslinked with silk, forming a composite hydrogel that exhibited both mechanical integrity and hydrophilicity. The composite hydrogels were assessed using unconfined compression and infrared spectroscopy to reveal of the physical properties over time in relation to polymer concentration. In addition, the hydrogels were characterized by enzymatic degradation and for cytotoxicity. Results showed that increasing HA concentration, decreased gelation time, increased degradation rate, and reduced changes that were observed over time in mechanics, water retention, and crystallization. These hydrogel composites provide a biologically relevant system with controllable temporal stiffening and elasticity, thus offering enhanced tunable scaffolds for short or long term applications in tissue engineering. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Effectiveness and Safety of Large Gel Particle Hyaluronic Acid With Lidocaine for Correction of Midface Volume Deficit or Contour Deficiency.

    PubMed

    Weiss, Robert A; Moradi, Amir; Bank, David; Few, Julius; Joseph, John; Dover, Jeffrey; Lin, Xiaoming; Nogueira, Alessandra; Mashburn, Jay

    2016-06-01

    Aging effects, such as facial flatness, increased tissue laxity, and soft tissue descent and deflation, contribute to midface deficiency. To evaluate whether large gel particle hyaluronic acid with lidocaine (LGP-HAL) is more effective in the treatment of midface deficiencies than no treatment. Subjects with mild to substantial loss of midface fullness were randomized 3:1 to LGP-HAL (Restylane Lyft; Galderma Laboratories, L.P., Fort Worth, TX) or no treatment. Treatment success was defined as at least 1-grade improvement in Medicis Midface Volume Scale (MMVS) on each side of the face at 8 weeks as assessed by a blinded evaluator. Secondary efficacy end points included MMVS score, global aesthetic improvement, and subject satisfaction. Significantly greater percent of subjects achieved treatment success in the LGP-HAL group compared to no treatment at all time points through Month 12 (p < .001). One year after initial treatment, 85% of subjects still had a global aesthetic improvement assessed by the treating investigator. Subject satisfaction demonstrated that LGP-HAL improved the aesthetic appearance of the midface. Most reported adverse events (80%) were mild in severity. The LGP-HAL treatment is well tolerated and provides significant improvement up to 12 months for the correction of midface deficiencies.

  17. Initiating statistical process control to improve quality outcomes in colorectal surgery.

    PubMed

    Keller, Deborah S; Stulberg, Jonah J; Lawrence, Justin K; Samia, Hoda; Delaney, Conor P

    2015-12-01

    Unexpected variations in postoperative length of stay (LOS) negatively impact resources and patient outcomes. Statistical process control (SPC) measures performance, evaluates productivity, and modifies processes for optimal performance. The goal of this study was to initiate SPC to identify LOS outliers and evaluate its feasibility to improve outcomes in colorectal surgery. Review of a prospective database identified colorectal procedures performed by a single surgeon. Patients were grouped into elective and emergent categories and then stratified by laparoscopic and open approaches. All followed a standardized enhanced recovery protocol. SPC was applied to identify outliers and evaluate causes within each group. A total of 1294 cases were analyzed--83% elective (n = 1074) and 17% emergent (n = 220). Emergent cases were 70.5% open and 29.5% laparoscopic; elective cases were 36.8% open and 63.2% laparoscopic. All groups had a wide range in LOS. LOS outliers ranged from 8.6% (elective laparoscopic) to 10.8% (emergent laparoscopic). Evaluation of outliers demonstrated patient characteristics of higher ASA scores, longer operating times, ICU requirement, and temporary nursing at discharge. Outliers had higher postoperative complication rates in elective open (57.1 vs. 20.0%) and elective lap groups (77.6 vs. 26.1%). Outliers also had higher readmission rates for emergent open (11.4 vs. 5.4%), emergent lap (14.3 vs. 9.2%), and elective lap (32.8 vs. 6.9%). Elective open outliers did not follow trends of longer LOS or higher reoperation rates. SPC is feasible and promising for improving colorectal surgery outcomes. SPC identified patient and process characteristics associated with increased LOS. SPC may allow real-time outlier identification, during quality improvement efforts, and reevaluation of outcomes after introducing process change. SPC has clinical implications for improving patient outcomes and resource utilization.

  18. Recent advances in hyaluronic acid-decorated nanocarriers for targeted cancer therapy

    PubMed Central

    Wickens, Jennifer M.; Alsaab, Hashem O.; Kesharwani, Prashant; Bhise, Ketki; Amin, Mohd Cairul Iqbal Mohd; Tekade, Rakesh Kumar; Gupta, Umesh; Iyer, Arun K.

    2016-01-01

    The cluster-determinant 44 (CD44) receptor has a high affinity for hyaluronic acid (HA) binding and is a desirable receptor for active targeting based on its overexpression in cancer cells compared with normal body cells. The nanocarrier affinity can be increased by conjugating drug-loaded carriers with HA, allowing enhanced cancer cell uptake via the HA-CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis pathway. In this review, we discuss recent advances in HA-based nanocarriers and micelles for cancer therapy. In vitro and in vivo experiments have repeatedly indicated HA-based nanocarriers to be a target-specific drug and gene delivery platform with great promise for future applications in clinical cancer therapy. PMID:28017836

  19. Recent advances in hyaluronic acid-decorated nanocarriers for targeted cancer therapy.

    PubMed

    Wickens, Jennifer M; Alsaab, Hashem O; Kesharwani, Prashant; Bhise, Ketki; Amin, Mohd Cairul Iqbal Mohd; Tekade, Rakesh Kumar; Gupta, Umesh; Iyer, Arun K

    2017-04-01

    The cluster-determinant 44 (CD44) receptor has a high affinity for hyaluronic acid (HA) binding and is a desirable receptor for active targeting based on its overexpression in cancer cells compared with normal body cells. The nanocarrier affinity can be increased by conjugating drug-loaded carriers with HA, allowing enhanced cancer cell uptake via the HA-CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis pathway. In this review, we discuss recent advances in HA-based nanocarriers and micelles for cancer therapy. In vitro and in vivo experiments have repeatedly indicated HA-based nanocarriers to be a target-specific drug and gene delivery platform with great promise for future applications in clinical cancer therapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Comparison of intra-articular injections of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF-Endoret) versus Durolane hyaluronic acid in the treatment of patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Vaquerizo, Víctor; Plasencia, Miguel Ángel; Arribas, Ignacio; Seijas, Roberto; Padilla, Sabino; Orive, Gorka; Anitua, Eduardo

    2013-10-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety in a randomized, clinical trial of 3 injections of PRGF-Endoret (BTI Biotechnology Institute, Vitoria, Spain) versus one single intra-articular injection of Durolane hyaluronic acid (HA) (Q-MED AB, Uppsala, Sweden) as a treatment for reducing symptoms in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Ninety-six patients with symptomatic knee OA were randomly assigned to receive PRGF-Endoret (3 injections on a weekly basis) or one infiltration with Durolane HA. The primary outcome measures were a 30% decrease and a 50% decrease in the summed score for the pain, physical function, and stiffness subscales of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Lequesne scores from baseline to weeks 24 and 48. The percentage of OMERACT-OARSI (Outcome Measures for Rheumatology Committee and Osteoarthritis Research Society International Standing Committee for Clinical Trials Response Criteria Initiative) responders was also documented. As secondary outcomes, pain, stiffness, and physical function by use of the WOMAC and the Lequesne score were considered and overall safety of the injection themselves. The mean age of the patients was 63.6 years. Treatment with PRGF-Endoret was significantly more efficient than treatment with Durolane HA in reducing knee pain and stiffness and improving physical function in patients with knee OA. The rate of response to PRGF-Endoret was significantly higher than the rate of response to HA for all the scores including pain, stiffness, and physical function on the WOMAC, Lequesne index, and OMERACT-OARSI responders at 24 and 48 weeks. Adverse events were mild and evenly distributed between the groups. Our findings show that PRGF-Endoret is safe and significantly superior to Durolane HA in primary and secondary efficacy analysis both at 24 and 48 weeks; provides a significant clinical improvement, reducing patients' pain and improving joint stiffness and

  1. Biodegradable hyaluronic acid hydrogels to control release of dexamethasone through aqueous Diels-Alder chemistry for adipose tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Fan, Ming; Ma, Ye; Zhang, Ziwei; Mao, Jiahui; Tan, Huaping; Hu, Xiaohong

    2015-11-01

    A robust synthetic strategy of biopolymer-based hydrogels has been developed where hyaluronic acid derivatives reacted through aqueous Diels-Alder chemistry without the involvement of chemical catalysts, allowing for control and sustain release of dexamethasone. To conjugate the hydrogel, furan and maleimide functionalized hyaluronic acid were synthesized, respectively, as well as furan functionalized dexamethasone, for the covalent immobilization. Chemical structure, gelation time, morphologies, swelling kinetics, weight loss, compressive modulus and dexamethasone release of the hydrogel system in PBS at 37°C were studied. The results demonstrated that the aqueous Diels-Alder chemistry provides an extremely selective reaction and proceeds with high efficiency for hydrogel conjugation and covalent immobilization of dexamethasone. Cell culture results showed that the dexamethasone immobilized hydrogel was noncytotoxic and preserved proliferation of entrapped human adipose-derived stem cells. This synthetic approach uniquely allows for the direct fabrication of biologically functionalized gel scaffolds with ideal structures for adipose tissue engineering, which provides a competitive alternative to conventional conjugation techniques such as copper mediated click chemistry. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  2. Information Architecture of Web-Based Interventions to Improve Health Outcomes: Systematic Review

    PubMed Central

    Grenen, Emily; Surla, Stacy; Schwarz, Mary; Cole-Lewis, Heather

    2018-01-01

    effect of information architecture on health outcomes, behavioral outcomes, or website engagement. One publication studied the isolated impact of information architecture on outcomes of interest (ie, website use and engagement; health-related knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs; and health behaviors), while the other two publications studied the impact of information architecture, website features (eg, interactivity, email prompts, and forums), and tailored content on these outcomes. The paper that investigated IA exclusively found that a tunnel IA improved site engagement and behavior knowledge, but it decreased users’ perceived efficiency. The first study that did not isolate IA found that the enhanced site condition improved site usage but not the amount of content viewed. The second study that did not isolate IA found that a tailored site condition improved site usage, behavior knowledge, and some behavior outcomes. Conclusions No clear conclusion can be made about the relationship between IA and health outcomes, given limited evidence in the peer-reviewed literature connecting IA to behavioral outcomes and website engagement. Only one study reviewed solely manipulated IA, and we therefore recommend improving the scientific evidence base such that additional empirical studies investigate the impact of IA in isolation. Moreover, information from the gray literature and expert opinion might be identified and added to the evidence base, in order to lay the groundwork for hypothesis generation to improve empirical evidence on information architecture and health and behavior outcomes. PMID:29563076

  3. Desire for penile girth enhancement and the effects of the self-injection of hyaluronic Acid gel.

    PubMed

    Coskuner, Enis Rauf; Canter, Halil Ibrahim

    2012-07-01

    Penile girth enhancement is a controversial subject but demands for enhancement are increasing steadily. Although various fillers have been widely used for soft tissue augmentation, there is no reliable material for this particular situation. Here we report a case of an acute hypersensitivity reaction in a man after his first self-injection of a filler material, which, he claimed, was hyaluronic acid gel for penile girth enhancement and glans penis augmentation.

  4. Properties and in vitro drug release of hyaluronic acid-hydroxyethyl cellulose hydrogels for transdermal delivery of isoliquiritigenin.

    PubMed

    Kong, Bong Ju; Kim, Ayoung; Park, Soo Nam

    2016-08-20

    In the present study, the properties of hydrogel systems based on hyaluronic acid (HA)-hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) were investigated for effective transdermal delivery of isoliquiritigenin (ILTG). Hydrogels were synthesized by chemical cross-linking, and network structures were characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and surface area analyser. Texture properties and swelling of HA-HEC hydrogels were found to be closely linked to cross-linker concentration and swelling medium. Water in HA-HEC hydrogels was found to exist mostly in the form of free water. The viscoelasticity and the network stabilization of the hydrogels were analysed via rheological studies. The release kinetics of the hydrogel followed Fickian diffusion mechanism. In an in vitro skin penetration study, the system substantially improved the delivery of ILTG into the skin. These results indicate that the hydrogel system composed of HA and HEC has potential as a transdermal delivery system, with cross-linking density and the swelling medium influencing the properties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Improving Weight Loss Outcomes of Community Interventions by Incorporating Behavioral Strategies

    PubMed Central

    Crane, Melissa M.; Thomas, J. Graham; Kumar, Rajiv; Weinberg, Brad

    2010-01-01

    Objectives. We examined whether adding behavioral weight loss strategies could improve the outcomes of a community weight loss campaign. Methods. Shape Up RI is a 12-week, online, team-based program for health improvement in Rhode Island. In study 1, we randomly assigned participants to the standard Shape Up RI program or to the program plus video lessons on weight loss. In study 2, we randomly assigned participants to the standard program or to the program plus video lessons; daily self-monitoring of weight, eating, and exercise; and computer-generated feedback. Results. Adding video lessons alone (study 1) did not result in significantly improved weight loss (2.0 ±2.8 kg vs 1.4 ±2.9 kg; P = .15). However, when the video lessons were supplemented with self-monitoring and feedback (study 2), the average weight loss more than doubled (3.5 ±3.8 kg vs 1.4 ±2.7 kg; P < .01), and the proportion of individuals achieving a weight loss of 5% or more tripled (40.5% vs 13.2%; P < .01). Participants in study 2 submitted self-monitoring records on 78% of days, and adherence was significantly related to outcome. Conclusions. Adding behavioral strategies to community campaigns may improve weight loss outcomes with minimal additional cost. PMID:20966375

  6. Continuous Quality Improvement and Comprehensive Primary Health Care: A Systems Framework to Improve Service Quality and Health Outcomes.

    PubMed

    McCalman, Janya; Bailie, Ross; Bainbridge, Roxanne; McPhail-Bell, Karen; Percival, Nikki; Askew, Deborah; Fagan, Ruth; Tsey, Komla

    2018-01-01

    Continuous quality improvement (CQI) processes for improving clinical care and health outcomes have been implemented by primary health-care services, with resultant health-care impacts. But only 10-20% of gain in health outcomes is contributed by health-care services; a much larger share is determined by social and cultural factors. This perspective paper argues that health care and health outcomes can be enhanced through applying CQI as a systems approach to comprehensive primary health care. Referring to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australian context as an example, the authors provide a systems framework that includes strategies and conditions to facilitate evidence-based and local decision making by primary health-care services. The framework describes the integration of CQI vertically to improve linkages with governments and community members and horizontally with other sectors to influence the social and cultural determinants of health. Further, government and primary health-care service investment is required to support and extend integration and evaluation of CQI efforts vertically and horizontally.

  7. Platelet-rich plasma injection is more effective than hyaluronic acid in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Say, F; Gürler, D; Yener, K; Bülbül, M; Malkoc, M

    2013-01-01

    There is increasing use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in orthopaedics as it is a simple, cheap and minimally invasive technique. This study aimed to compare the effects of the use of PRP and hyaluronic acid (HA) injections in the knee of patients diagnosed with and being followed-up for degenerative arthritis. This prospective study included 90 patients with complaints of knee pain with findings of mild or moderate degenerative arthritis. In the PRP group (n=45), one intra-articular injection was applied and in the HA group (n=45), three doses of intra-articular injection were applied. Clinical evaluation was made by Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and a visual pain scale. No severe adverse events was observed. Statistically significant better results in the KOOS score and visual pain scale was determined in PRP group than HA group at 3 months and 6 months follow up. The cost of the application for the PRP group was lower than that of the HA group. The results of this study have shown the application of single dose PRP to be a safe, effective and low-cost method for treating OA. However, further studies are required for a more clear result.

  8. [Improving care for cleft lip and palate patients: uniform and patient-orientated outcome measures].

    PubMed

    Haj, M; de Gier, H H W; van Veen-van der Hoek, M; Versnel, S L; van Adrichem, L N; Wolvius, E B; Hazelzet, J A; Koudstaal, M J

    2018-02-01

    The quality of care for patients with cleft lip and palate is extremely variable across the world. Treatment protocols differ and methods of data registration are not uniform. Improving this care by means of comparative research is challenging. The best treatment programmes can be identified by uniformly registering patient-orientated outcomes and comparing the outcomes with those of other treatment centres. That knowledge can be used to improve one's own care. An international team consisting of specialists and cleft lip and palate patients has developed a set of outcome measures that are considered by patients to be most important. This team is coordinated by the International Consortium of Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM). The cleft lip and palate outcome set can be used by all centres worldwide in following up on cleft lip and palate patients. In the Erasmus Medical Centre in Rotterdam, the 'Zorgmonitor Schisis' (Care Monitor Cleft Lip and Palate) has been built, an application in which these outcome measures are collected at fixed times. Implementing this set of outcome measures in other cleft lip and palate treatment centres and using the outcomes as (inter)national benchmarks will result in transparency and the improvement of the treatment of cleft lip and palate worldwide.

  9. Information Architecture of Web-Based Interventions to Improve Health Outcomes: Systematic Review.

    PubMed

    Pugatch, Jillian; Grenen, Emily; Surla, Stacy; Schwarz, Mary; Cole-Lewis, Heather

    2018-03-21

    health outcomes, behavioral outcomes, or website engagement. One publication studied the isolated impact of information architecture on outcomes of interest (ie, website use and engagement; health-related knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs; and health behaviors), while the other two publications studied the impact of information architecture, website features (eg, interactivity, email prompts, and forums), and tailored content on these outcomes. The paper that investigated IA exclusively found that a tunnel IA improved site engagement and behavior knowledge, but it decreased users' perceived efficiency. The first study that did not isolate IA found that the enhanced site condition improved site usage but not the amount of content viewed. The second study that did not isolate IA found that a tailored site condition improved site usage, behavior knowledge, and some behavior outcomes. No clear conclusion can be made about the relationship between IA and health outcomes, given limited evidence in the peer-reviewed literature connecting IA to behavioral outcomes and website engagement. Only one study reviewed solely manipulated IA, and we therefore recommend improving the scientific evidence base such that additional empirical studies investigate the impact of IA in isolation. Moreover, information from the gray literature and expert opinion might be identified and added to the evidence base, in order to lay the groundwork for hypothesis generation to improve empirical evidence on information architecture and health and behavior outcomes. ©Jillian Pugatch, Emily Grenen, Stacy Surla, Mary Schwarz, Heather Cole-Lewis. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (http://www.jmir.org), 21.03.2018.

  10. The impact of improving teamwork on patient outcomes in surgery: A systematic review.

    PubMed

    Sun, Rosa; Marshall, Dominic C; Sykes, Mark C; Maruthappu, Mahiben; Shalhoub, Joseph

    2018-05-01

    The aviation industry pioneered formalised crew training in order to improve safety and reduce consequences of non-technical error. This formalised training has been successfully adapted and used to in the field of surgery to improve post-operative patient outcomes. The need to implement teamwork training as an integral part of a surgical programme is increasingly being recognised. We aim to systematically review the impact of surgical teamwork training on post-operative outcomes. Two independent researchers systematically searched MEDLINE and Embase in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies were screened and subjected to inclusion/exclusion criteria. Study characteristics and outcomes were reported and analysed. Our initial search identified 2720 articles. Following duplicate removal, title and abstract screening, 107 full text articles were analysed. Eight articles met our inclusion criteria. Overall, three articles supported a positive effect of good teamwork on post-operative patient outcomes. We identified key areas in study methodology that can be improved upon, including small cohort size, lack of unified training programme, and short training duration, should future studies be designed and implemented in this field. At present, there is insufficient evidence to support the hypothesis that teamwork training interventions improve patient outcomes. We believe that non-significant and conflicting results can be attributed to flaws in methodology and non-uniform training methods. With increasing amounts of evidence in this field, we predict a positive association between teamwork training and patient outcomes will come to light. Copyright © 2018 IJS Publishing Group Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. AMCP Partnership Forum: Improving Quality, Value, and Outcomes with Patient-Reported Outcomes.

    PubMed

    2018-03-01

    Patient-reported outcomes (PROs), which provide a direct measure of a patient's health status or treatment preferences, represent a key component of the shift toward patient-centered health care. PROs can measure the state of a patient's disease-specific and overall health throughout the care continuum, enabling them to have a variety of uses for key health care stakeholders. Currently, PROs are used in drug development, aligning patient and clinician goals in care, quality-of-care measures, and coverage and reimbursement decisions. While there have been significant strides by key health care stakeholders to further the development and use of PROs, there are a number of challenges limiting more widespread use. In light of these current challenges and the potential for PROs to improve health care quality and value, on October 19, 2017, the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy convened a forum of key stakeholders representing patients, payers, providers, government, and pharmaceutical companies to discuss and identify solutions to the current challenges and barriers to further use of PROs. These discussions informed the development of participants' ideal future state in which PROs maximize the goals of all health care stakeholders and the actionable steps required to make the future state a reality. While stakeholders shared unique perspectives throughout the forum, they had consensus on 2 overarching issues: the importance of PROs in defining value, improving patient care, and implementing value-based payment models and the need for strong organizational and operational systems to achieve optimal adoption and use. Participants identified several key challenges in PRO use and adoption: achieving a representative patient population, inclusion of PRO data in medication labels, the necessity for both standardized and customizable PROs, and operational and organizational barriers to collecting and analyzing PROs. To overcome these challenges, participants recommended that

  12. Desire for Penile Girth Enhancement and the Effects of the Self-Injection of Hyaluronic Acid Gel

    PubMed Central

    Coskuner, Enis Rauf; Canter, Halil Ibrahim

    2012-01-01

    Penile girth enhancement is a controversial subject but demands for enhancement are increasing steadily. Although various fillers have been widely used for soft tissue augmentation, there is no reliable material for this particular situation. Here we report a case of an acute hypersensitivity reaction in a man after his first self-injection of a filler material, which, he claimed, was hyaluronic acid gel for penile girth enhancement and glans penis augmentation. PMID:23112518

  13. Efficacy of eyedrops containing cross-linked hyaluronic acid and coenzyme Q10 in treating patients with mild to moderate dry eye.

    PubMed

    Postorino, Elisa I; Rania, Laura; Aragona, Emanuela; Mannucci, Carmen; Alibrandi, Angela; Calapai, Gioacchino; Puzzolo, Domenico; Aragona, Pasquale

    2018-01-01

    Dry eye disease (DED) is a common condition causing substantial burden. A randomized, controlled, single-masked study was performed in 40 patients with mild to moderate DED to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a collyrium based on crosslinked hyaluronic acid (XLHA) with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Enrolled subjects were divided into 2 groups: group A, treated with XLHA + CoQ10; and group B, treated with hyaluronic acid (HA). Eyedrops were administered 4 times daily for 3 months. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal and conjunctival staining, and meibomian gland assessment (MGD) were evaluated; furthermore, corneal aesthesiometry, in vivo corneal confocal microscopy, visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and fundus examination were performed. At the end of treatment, OSDI score significantly decreased in groups A and B (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively); the decrease was significantly higher in group A. Corneal staining decreased in both groups, with lower scores in group A. The MGD was significantly ameliorated in group A patients. No differences were found for corneal aesthesiometry or TBUT. Epithelial cell reflectivity was significantly reduced only in group A. For keratocytes and stromal matrix parameters, there was a significant improvement in group A. No changes were found for visual acuity, IOP, or fundus examination. The XLHA + CoQ10 treatment showed greater effectiveness in DED compared to HA alone, probably due to the longer permanency on ocular surface and the antioxidant activity of CoQ10. Therefore, XLHA + CoQ10 eyedrops could represent a new possibility in dry eye treatment.

  14. CBT competence in novice therapists improves anxiety outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Brown, Lily A.; Craske, Michelle G.; Glenn, Daniel E.; Stein, Murray B.; Sullivan, Greer; Sherbourne, Cathy; Bystritsky, Alexander; Welch, Stacy S.; Campbell-Sills, Laura; Lang, Ariel; Roy-Byrne, Peter; Rose, Raphael D.

    2013-01-01

    Objective This study explores the relationships between therapist variables (CBT competence, and CBT adherence) and clinical outcomes of computer-assisted CBT for anxiety disorders delivered by novice therapists in a primary care setting. Methods Participants were recruited for a randomized controlled trial of evidence-based treatment, including computer-assisted CBT, versus treatment as usual. Therapists (Anxiety Clinical Specialists; ACSs) were non-expert clinicians, many of whom had no prior experience in delivering psychotherapy (and in particular, very little experience with CBT). Trained raters reviewed randomly selected treatment sessions from 176 participants and rated therapists on measures of CBT-competence and CBT-adherence. Patients were assessed at baseline and at 6, 12, and 18 month follow-ups on measures of anxiety, depression, and functioning, and an average reliable change index was calculated as a composite measure of outcome. CBT-competence and CBT-adherence were entered as predictors of outcome, after controlling for baseline covariates. Results Higher CBT-competence was associated with better clinical outcomes whereas CBT-adherence was not. Also, CBT-competence was inversely correlated with years of clinical experience and trended (not significantly, though) down as the study progressed. CBT-adherence was inversely correlated with therapist tenure in the study. Conclusions Therapist competence was related to improved clinical outcomes when CBT for anxiety disorders was delivered by novice clinicians with technology assistance. The results highlight the value of the initial training for novice therapists as well as booster training to limit declines in therapist adherence. PMID:23225338

  15. Improving Education Outcomes in the Slovak Republic. OECD Economics Department Working Papers, No. 578

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carey, David

    2007-01-01

    Improving education outcomes is vital for achieving convergence with GDP per capita levels in Western European countries and for reducing income inequality. While some education outcomes are favourable, such as the low secondary-school drop-out rate, others have room for improvement: education achievement is below the OECD average and strongly…

  16. Hyaluronic acid in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis with emphasis on the efficacy of different products.

    PubMed

    Colen, Sascha; van den Bekerom, Michel P J; Mulier, Michiel; Haverkamp, Daniël

    2012-08-01

    Although accepted as a conservative treatment option for knee osteoarthritis, the debate about the effectiveness of intra-articular treatment with hyaluronic acid (HA) is still ongoing because of contrasting outcomes in different clinical studies. Several well designed clinical studies showed a significant improvement in pain at follow-up compared with baseline but no significant improvement comparing the efficacy of HA with placebo (saline) or with other conservative treatment options. Notwithstanding the effectiveness of different types of intra-articular HA products, the question of whether one HA product is better than another is still unanswered. In this systematic review we compare the effects of intra-articularly administered HA with intra-articularly administered placebo in general and, more specifically, the effects of individual HA products with placebo. We also compare the efficacy of different HA products. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted using databases including MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Clinical Trial Register and EMBASE. Seventy-four RCTs were included in this systematic review. HA improves pain by approximately 40-50% compared with baseline levels. However, when compared with saline the difference in efficacy is not that large. Due to a large 'placebo effect' of saline (approximately 30% pain reduction, persisting for at least 3 months) we determined a weighted mean difference between the efficacy of HA and saline of just 10.20 using the visual analog scale for pain. It is debatable whether this difference reaches the minimum clinically important difference. Comparing the different HA products, which vary in the molecular weight, concentration, and volume of HA, we were not able to conclude that one brand has a better efficacy than another due to the heterogeneity of the studies and outcomes. In the future it will be important to determine the exact mechanism of action of

  17. Compliance with Surgical Care Improvement Project for Body Temperature Management (SCIP Inf-10) Is Associated with Improved Clinical Outcomes.

    PubMed

    Scott, Andrew V; Stonemetz, Jerry L; Wasey, Jack O; Johnson, Daniel J; Rivers, Richard J; Koch, Colleen G; Frank, Steven M

    2015-07-01

    In an effort to measure and improve the quality of perioperative care, the Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP) was introduced in 2003. The SCIP guidelines are evidence-based process measures designed to reduce preventable morbidity, but it remains to be determined whether SCIP-measure compliance is associated with improved outcomes. The authors retrospectively analyzed the electronic medical record data from 45,304 inpatients at a single institution to assess whether compliance with SCIP Inf-10 (body temperature management) was associated with a reduced incidence of morbidity and mortality. The primary outcomes were hospital-acquired infection and ischemic cardiovascular events. Secondary outcomes were mortality and hospital length of stay. Body temperature on admission to the postoperative care unit was higher in the SCIP-compliant group (36.6° ± 0.5°C; n = 44,064) compared with the SCIP-noncompliant group (35.5° ± 0.5°C; n = 1,240) (P < 0.0001). SCIP compliance was associated with improved outcomes in both nonadjusted and risk-adjusted analyses. SCIP compliance was associated with a reduced incidence of hospital-acquired infection (3,312 [7.5%] vs.160 [12.9%] events; risk-adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.68; 95% CI, 0.54 to 0.85), ischemic cardiovascular events (602 [1.4%] vs. 38 [3.1%] events; risk-adjusted OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.41 to 0.92), and mortality (617 [1.4%] vs. 60 [4.8%] events; risk-adjusted OR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.58). Median (interquartile range) hospital length of stay was also decreased: 4 (2 to 8) versus 5 (2 to 14) days; P < 0.0001. Compliance with SCIP Inf-10 body temperature management guidelines during surgery is associated with improved clinical outcomes and can be used as a quality measure.

  18. Using public policy to improve outcomes for asthmatic children in schools.

    PubMed

    Lynn, Jewlya; Oppenheimer, Sophie; Zimmer, Lorena

    2014-12-01

    School-based services to improve asthma management need to be accompanied by public policies that can help sustain services, scale effective interventions, create greater equity across schools, and improve outcomes for children. Several national organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have recommended specific public policies the adoption of which in school settings can improve asthma outcomes for children. Although many states and school districts have adopted some of these policies, adoption is not universal, and implementation is not always successful, leaving inequities in children's access to asthma services and supports. These issues can be addressed by changing public policy. Policy change is a complex process, but it is one that will benefit from greater involvement by asthma experts, including the researchers who generate the knowledge base on what services, supports, and policies have the best outcomes for children. Asthma experts can participate in the policy process by helping to build awareness of the need for school-based asthma policy, estimating the costs associated with policy options and with inaction, advocating for the selection of specific policies, assisting in implementation (including providing feedback), conducting the research that can evaluate the effectiveness of implementation, and ultimately providing information back into the policy process to allow for improvements to the policies. Copyright © 2014 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Cardiac surgical outcomes improvement led by a physician champion working with a nurse clinical coordinator.

    PubMed

    Stanford, John R; Swaney-Berghoff, Laurie; Recht, Kimberly

    2012-01-01

    Cardiac surgical outcomes improvement in a community hospital was driven by a physician champion working with a nurse clinical coordinator. Specific system improvements implemented were (1) nurse checklists of vital signs, cardiovascular function parameters, and life support appliance operation; (2) use of the EuroSCORE system of preoperative patient risk assessment; (3) monthly morbidity and mortality conferences; and (4) daily patient progress tracking. The hospital received 1 star (bottom 12% of hospitals for quality outcomes) from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Database in 2006 prior to program inception, 2 stars (middle 76% of hospitals for quality outcomes) in 2007 and 2008, and 3 stars (top 12% of hospitals) in 2009. The physician and nurse together combined a strategy for clinical improvement with the cultural practices at the hospital to ensure that system improvements approved at the strategic level were implemented at the point of care. Both strategy and culture must be addressed to ensure patient outcomes improvement.

  20. Intraarticular Injection of a Cross-Linked Sodium Hyaluronate Combined with Triamcinolone Hexacetonide (Cingal) to Provide Symptomatic Relief of Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Multicenter Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Hangody, Laszlo; Szody, Robert; Lukasik, Piotr; Zgadzaj, Wojciech; Lénárt, Endre; Dokoupilova, Eva; Bichovsk, Daniela; Berta, Agnes; Vasarhelyi, Gabor; Ficzere, Andrea; Hangody, György; Stevens, Gary; Szendroi, Miklos

    2017-05-01

    To evaluate the efficacy and safety of an intraarticular injection of Cingal (Anika Therapeutics, Inc., Bedford, MA) compared with Monovisc (Anika Therapeutics, Inc., Bedford, MA) or saline for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. This multicenter, double-blind, saline-controlled clinical trial randomized subjects with knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grades I-III) to a single injection of Cingal (4 mL, 88 mg hyaluronic acid [HA] plus 18 mg triamcinolone hexacetonide [TH]), Monovisc (4 mL, 88 mg HA), or saline (4 mL, 0.9%). The primary efficacy outcome was change in WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index) Pain Score through 12 weeks with Cingal versus saline. Secondary outcomes included Patient and Evaluator Global Assessments, OMERACT-OARSI Responder index, and WOMAC Total, Stiffness, and Physical Function scores through 26 weeks. A total of 368 patients were treated (Cingal, n = 149; Monovisc, n = 150; saline, n = 69). Cingal improvement from baseline was significantly greater than saline through 12 weeks ( P = 0.0099) and 26 weeks ( P = 0.0072). WOMAC Pain was reduced by 70% at 12 weeks and by 72% at 26 weeks with Cingal. Significant improvements were found in most secondary endpoints for pain and function at most time points through 26 weeks. At 1 and 3 weeks, Cingal was significantly better than Monovisc for most endpoints; Cingal and Monovisc were similar from 6 weeks through 26 weeks. A low incidence of related adverse events was reported. Cingal provides immediate and long-term relief of osteoarthritis-related pain, stiffness, and function, significant through 26 weeks compared to saline. Cingal had similar immediate advantages compared with HA alone, while showing benefit comparable to HA at 6 weeks and beyond.

  1. Efficacy of injecting platelet concentrate combined with hyaluronic acid for the treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women with history of breast cancer: a phase 2 pilot study.

    PubMed

    Hersant, Barbara; SidAhmed-Mezi, Mounia; Belkacemi, Yazid; Darmon, Franklin; Bastuji-Garin, Sylvie; Werkoff, Gabrielle; Bosc, Romain; Niddam, Jeremy; Hermeziu, Oana; La Padula, Simone; Meningaud, Jean Paul

    2018-05-07

    Approximately 50% to 70% of breast cancer survivors are affected by one or more symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). For those who cannot take hormone therapy, autologous platelet-rich plasma combined with hyaluronic acid (A-PRP-HA) may provide a new alternative therapy for the treatment of VVA in postmenopausal women with history of breast cancer. We enrolled 20 postmenopausal breast cancers survivors with VVA and a score of <15 on the Gloria Bachman Vaginal Health Index (VHI) comprised of five items including: vaginal pH, elasticity, fluid volume (secretions), epithelial integrity, and moisture.We administered intramucosal injections of A-PRP combined with HA (Regenkit) and performed clinical evaluations at 0, 1, 3, and 6 months. Primary endpoint: evaluation of vulvovaginal mucosa changes using the VHI; secondary endpoint: evaluation of dyspareunia and sexual dysfunction based on the Female Sexual Distress (FSD) score. All participants (20 women) showed improvement in the clinical symptoms of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. The VHI score showed a significant increase at 6 months, going from a total baseline score (pretreatment) of 10.7 ± 2.12 to 20.75 ± 4.8 (P < 0.0001) at 6 months. Improvement in hydration and vaginal epithelial integrity was reported. A VHI score of > 15 showed a successful treatment outcome. The FSD score decreased significantly during the study, from a baseline score of 36.35 ± 2.53 pretreatment to 30.15 ± 2.47 6 months after treatment, representing improvement of 17% (P < 0.0001, respectively). No adverse events were reported. The injection of A-PRP-HA appeared to be a promising method to improve the trophicity and hydration of vaginal mucosa for the treatment of VVA in postmenopausal breast cancer survivors with contraindications to hormone therapy.

  2. Diabetes technology: improving care, improving patient-reported outcomes and preventing complications in young people with Type 1 diabetes.

    PubMed

    Prahalad, P; Tanenbaum, M; Hood, K; Maahs, D M

    2018-04-01

    With the evolution of diabetes technology, those living with Type 1 diabetes are given a wider arsenal of tools with which to achieve glycaemic control and improve patient-reported outcomes. Furthermore, the use of these technologies may help reduce the risk of acute complications, such as severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, as well as long-term macro- and microvascular complications. In addition, diabetes technology can have a beneficial impact on psychosocial health by reducing the burden of diabetes. Unfortunately, diabetes goals are often unmet and people with Type 1 diabetes too frequently experience acute and long-term complications of this condition, in addition to often having less than ideal psychosocial outcomes. Increasing realization of the importance of patient-reported outcomes is leading to diabetes care delivery becoming more patient-centred. Diabetes technology in the form of medical devices, digital health and big data analytics have the potential to improve clinical care and psychosocial support, resulting in lower rates of acute and chronic complications, decreased burden of diabetes care, and improved quality of life. © 2018 Diabetes UK.

  3. Continuous Quality Improvement and Comprehensive Primary Health Care: A Systems Framework to Improve Service Quality and Health Outcomes

    PubMed Central

    McCalman, Janya; Bailie, Ross; Bainbridge, Roxanne; McPhail-Bell, Karen; Percival, Nikki; Askew, Deborah; Fagan, Ruth; Tsey, Komla

    2018-01-01

    Continuous quality improvement (CQI) processes for improving clinical care and health outcomes have been implemented by primary health-care services, with resultant health-care impacts. But only 10–20% of gain in health outcomes is contributed by health-care services; a much larger share is determined by social and cultural factors. This perspective paper argues that health care and health outcomes can be enhanced through applying CQI as a systems approach to comprehensive primary health care. Referring to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australian context as an example, the authors provide a systems framework that includes strategies and conditions to facilitate evidence-based and local decision making by primary health-care services. The framework describes the integration of CQI vertically to improve linkages with governments and community members and horizontally with other sectors to influence the social and cultural determinants of health. Further, government and primary health-care service investment is required to support and extend integration and evaluation of CQI efforts vertically and horizontally. PMID:29623271

  4. Cartilage Regeneration in Osteoarthritic Patients by a Composite of Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Hyaluronate Hydrogel: Results from a Clinical Trial for Safety and Proof-of-Concept with 7 Years of Extended Follow-Up.

    PubMed

    Park, Yong-Beom; Ha, Chul-Won; Lee, Choong-Hee; Yoon, Young Cheol; Park, Yong-Geun

    2017-02-01

    Few methods are available to regenerate articular cartilage defects in patients with osteoarthritis. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of articular cartilage regeneration by a novel medicinal product composed of allogeneic human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs). Patients with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 osteoarthritis and International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade 4 cartilage defects were enrolled in this clinical trial. The stem cell-based medicinal product (a composite of culture-expanded allogeneic hUCB-MSCs and hyaluronic acid hydrogel [Cartistem]) was applied to the lesion site. Safety was assessed by the World Health Organization common toxicity criteria. The primary efficacy outcome was ICRS cartilage repair assessed by arthroscopy at 12 weeks. The secondary efficacy outcome was visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain on walking. During a 7-year extended follow-up, we evaluated safety, VAS score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and histological evaluations. Seven participants were enrolled. Maturing repair tissue was observed at the 12-week arthroscopic evaluation. The VAS and IKDC scores were improved at 24 weeks. The improved clinical outcomes were stable over 7 years of follow-up. The histological findings at 1 year showed hyaline-like cartilage. MRI at 3 years showed persistence of the regenerated cartilage. Only five mild to moderate treatment-emergent adverse events were observed. There were no cases of osteogenesis or tumorigenesis over 7 years. The application of this novel stem cell-based medicinal product appears to be safe and effective for the regeneration of durable articular cartilage in osteoarthritic knees. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:613-621. © 2016 The Authors Stem Cells Translational Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of AlphaMed Press.

  5. GE11 peptide modified and reduction-responsive hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticles induced higher efficacy of doxorubicin for breast carcinoma therapy

    PubMed Central

    Hu, Danrong; Mezghrani, Omar; Zhang, Lei; Chen, Yi; Ke, Xue; Ci, Tianyuan

    2016-01-01

    Novel breast carcinoma dual-targeted redox-responsive nanoparticles (NPs) based on cholesteryl-hyaluronic acid conjugates were designed for intracellular delivery of the antitumor drug doxorubicin (DOX). A series of reduction-responsive hyaluronic acid derivatives grafted with hydrophobic cholesteryl moiety (HA-ss-Chol) and GE11 peptide conjugated HA-ss-Chol (GE11–HA-ss-Chol) were synthesized. The obtained conjugates showed attractive self-assembly characteristics and high drug loading capacity. GE11–HA-ss-Chol NPs were highly stable under conditions mimicking normal physiological conditions, while showing a fast degradation of the vehicle’s structure and accelerating the drug release dramatically in the presence of intracellular reductive environment. Furthermore, the cellular uptake assay confirmed GE11–HA-ss-Chol NPs were taken up by MDA-MB-231 cells through CD44- and epidermal growth factor receptor-mediated endocytosis. The internalization pathways of GE11–HA-ss-Chol NPs might involve clathrin-mediated endocytosis and macropinocytosis. The intracellular distribution of DOX in GE11–HA-ss-Chol NPs showed a faster release and more efficient nuclear delivery than the insensitive control. Enhanced in vitro cytotoxicity of GE11–HA-ss-Chol DOX-NPs further confirmed the superiority of their dual-targeting and redox-responsive capacity. Moreover, in vivo imaging investigation in MDA-MB-231 tumor-bearing mice confirmed that GE11–HA-ss-Chol NPs labeled with 1,1′-dioctadecyl-3,3,3′,3′-tetramethylindotricarbocyanine iodide, a near-infrared fluorescence dye, possessed a preferable tumor accumulation ability as compared to the single-targeting counterpart (HA-ss-Chol NPs). The antitumor efficacy showed an improved therapy efficacy and lower systemic side effect. These results suggest GE11–HA-ss-Chol NPs provide a good potential platform for antitumor drugs. PMID:27785019

  6. Microbial production of hyaluronic acid from agricultural resource derivatives.

    PubMed

    Pires, Aline M B; Macedo, André C; Eguchi, Silvia Y; Santana, Maria H A

    2010-08-01

    Agricultural resource derivatives (ARDs) such as hydrolysate soy protein concentrate (HSPC), whey protein concentrate (WPC), and cashew apple juice (CAJ) were studied with focus on the production of hyaluronic acid (HA) by Streptococcus zooepidemicus. Supplementation of the media with corn steep liquor (CSL) was also evaluated. Synthetic medium containing glucose and yeast extract was used as control. CAJ was a promising medium for the production of HA. It produced the highest amount of HA (0.89 g L(-1)), similar to that of the control (0.86 g L(-1)). WPC and HSPC media were the most effective for the production of biomass. CSL did not influence the production of HA when HSPC and WPC were used. However, in the synthetic medium it doubled the yield of HA from glucose. The average molecular weight of HA ranged from 10(3) to 10(4)Da for the ARDs and 10(7)Da for the synthetic medium. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Systematic clinical evidence review of NASHA (Durolane hyaluronic acid) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Leighton, Ross; Fitzpatrick, Jane; Smith, Helen; Crandall, Daniela; Flannery, Carl R; Conrozier, Thierry

    2018-01-01

    Pain and limitations in joint mobility associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA) are clinically challenging to manage, and advanced progression of disease can often lead to total knee arthroplasty. Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA), also referred to as viscosupplementation, is a non-surgical treatment approach for OA, the effectiveness of which may depend on the HA composition, and the length of time over which it resides in the joint. One of the available options for such therapies includes NASHA (Durolane HA), a non-animal, biofermentation-derived product, which is manufactured using a process that stabilizes the HA molecules to slow down their rate of degradation and produce a unique formulation with a terminal half-life of ~1 month. The objectives of the current review were to assess, in patients with OA of the knee, the efficacy and safety of intra-articular treatment with NASHA relative to control (saline) injections, other HA products, and other injectables (corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells). This systematic evidence review examines patient outcomes following NASHA treatment as described in published data from studies conducted in subjects with knee OA. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses-compliant literature search strategy yielded 11 eligible clinical studies with a variety of comparator arms. Outcomes assessed at various time points following intra-articular treatment included measures of pain, function, quality of life, and incidence of treatment-related adverse events (AEs). The available evidence reported for the clinical studies assessed demonstrates sustained and effective relief of knee OA symptoms following a single injection of NASHA. In addition, an excellent biocompatibility profile is observed for NASHA as an intra-articular therapy for OA, as reflected by the low rate of AEs associated with treatment. Treatment with NASHA is an effective and safe single

  8. Endoscopic Injection of Dextranomer/Hyaluronic Acid as First-Line Treatment in 851 Consecutive Children with High Grade Vesicoureteral Reflux: Efficacy and Long-Term Results.

    PubMed

    Friedmacher, Florian; Colhoun, Eric; Puri, Prem

    2018-03-15

    Endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic is widely acknowledged as first-line treatment of lower grade vesicoureteral reflux. We demonstrate its long-term efficacy and safety in eradicating high grade reflux. A total of 518 girls and 333 boys with a median age of 2.3 years (range 2 months to 13.7 years) underwent endoscopic correction of high grade vesicoureteral reflux using dextranomer/hyaluronic acid. Reflux was unilateral in 415 cases and bilateral in 436, comprising 1,287 refluxing units. Reflux was grade IV in 1,153 ureters (89.6%) and grade V in 134 (10.4%). 99m Technetium dimercaptosuccinic acid scintigraphy identified renal scarring in 317 patients (37.3%). Followup ultrasound and voiding cystourethrogram were performed 3 months after intervention and renal ultrasound yearly thereafter. Median followup was 8.5 years (range 6 months to 16 years). Overall resolution rate after the first endoscopic injection was 69.5% (895 of 1,287 cases), with resolution in 70.4% of grade IV and 61.9% of grade V cases. Reflux resolved after a second injection in 259 cases (20.1%) and after a third injection in 133 (10.4%). Persistent reflux after initial treatment was significantly more common in patients younger than age 1 year and in individuals with renal scarring. No significant postoperative complications were observed and no patient required ureteral reimplantation. Following reflux resolution febrile urinary tract infection developed in 43 children (5.1%), including 24 (55.8%) during the first year, 15 (34.9%) during the second year and 4 (9.3%) during year 3 or later. Of these patients 6 had reflux recurrence and 8 had neocontralateral grade III reflux, which was successfully treated with a single endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid. Endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid is an efficient and safe long-term treatment for grade IV and V vesicoureteral reflux, and can easily be repeated in patients with treatment failure, with a high

  9. Neovascularization Induced by the Hyaluronic Acid-Based Spongy-Like Hydrogels Degradation Products.

    PubMed

    Silva, Lucília P da; Pirraco, Rogério P; Santos, Tírcia C; Novoa-Carballal, Ramon; Cerqueira, Mariana T; Reis, Rui L; Correlo, Vitor M; Marques, Alexandra P

    2016-12-14

    Neovascularization has been a major challenge in many tissue regeneration strategies. Hyaluronic acid (HA) of 3-25 disaccharides is known to be angiogenic due to its interaction with endothelial cell receptors. This effect has been explored with HA-based structures but a transitory response is observed due to HA burst biodegradation. Herein we developed gellan gum (GG)-HA spongy-like hydrogels from semi-interpenetrating network hydrogels with different HA amounts. Enzymatic degradation was more evident in the GG-HA with high HA amount due to their lower mechanical stability, also resulting from the degradation itself, which facilitated the access of the enzyme to the HA in the bulk. GG-HA spongy-like hydrogels hyaluronidase-mediated degradation lead to the release of HA oligosaccharides of different amounts and sizes in a HA content-dependent manner which promoted in vitro proliferation of human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) but not their migration. Although no effect was observed in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (hDMECs) in vitro, the implantation of GG-HA spongy-like hydrogels in an ischemic hind limb mice model promoted neovascularization in a material-dependent manner, consistent with the in vitro degradation profile. Overall, GG-HA spongy-like hydrogels with a sustained release of HA oligomers are valuable options to improve tissue vascularization, a critical issue in several applications in the tissue engineering and regenerative medicine field.

  10. Surface-modified silk hydrogel containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticle with hyaluronic acid-dopamine conjugate.

    PubMed

    Kim, Hyung Hwan; Park, Jong Bo; Kang, Min Ji; Park, Young Hwan

    2014-09-01

    Silk fibroin/hydroxyapatite (SF/HAp) composite hydrogels were fabricated in this study, having different HAp contents (0-33 wt%) in SF matrix hydrogel. Surface modification of HAp nanoparticle with hyaluronic acid (HA)-dopamine (DA) conjugate improved a dispersibility of HAp in aqueous SF solution due to its negatively charged surface and therefore, fabrication of the SF composite hydrogel having HAp nanoparticles inside could be possible. Zeta potential of surface-modified HAP was examined by ELS. It demonstrates that surface of HAp was well modified to a negative charge with HA-DA. Morphological structure of SF hydrogel containing surface-modified HAp was examined by FE-SEM for analyzing pore structure of hydrogel and deposition of HAp nanoparticle in SF hydrogel. It was found that HAp nanoparticles were uniformly deposited on the pore wall of SF hydrogel. Structural characteristics of SF/HAp composite hydrogel was performed using X-ray diffraction and FT-IR analysis. It was found that β-sheet crystal conformation of SF was significantly influenced by the HAp content during gelation of a mixture of SF and HAp. As a result of MTT assay, the SF/HAp composite hydrogel showed excellent cell proliferation ability. Therefore, it is expected that SF hydrogel containing HAp nanoparticles has a high potential as bone regeneration scaffold. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Does treatment of SDB in children improve cardiovascular outcome?

    PubMed

    Vlahandonis, Anna; Walter, Lisa M; Horne, Rosemary S C

    2013-02-01

    Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is a common disorder in both adults and children and is caused by the obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. Unlike adults, most cases of paediatric SDB are due to the presence of enlarged tonsils and adenoids, thus the main treatment option is adenotonsillectomy (T&A). It is well known that obstructive sleep apnoea in adults increases the risk for hypertension, coronary artery disease and stroke, and there is now mounting evidence that SDB also has a significant impact on the cardiovascular system in children with reports of elevated blood pressure, endothelial dysfunction and altered autonomic cardiovascular control. As there is now substantial evidence that elevated blood pressure in childhood is carried on to adulthood it is important to know if treatment of SDB improves cardiovascular outcomes. Studies in adults have shown that treatment of SDB leads to improvements in cardiovascular function, including a reduction in pulmonary artery pressure, systemic blood pressure and endothelial dysfunction. However, studies exploring the outcomes of treatment of SDB in children on the cardiovascular system are limited and varied in their methodology and outcome measures. As a number of cardiovascular disturbances are sequelae of SDB, early detection and management could result in the reduction of elevated blood pressure in children, and consequently a reduction in cardiovascular morbidity in adulthood. The aim of this review is to summarise the findings of studies to date which have investigated the cardiovascular outcomes in children treated for SDB and to make recommendations for future management of this very common disease. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Targeting cancer with hyaluronic acid-based nanocarriers: recent advances and translational perspectives.

    PubMed

    Cadete, Ana; Alonso, María José

    2016-09-01

    Hyaluronic acid is a natural polysaccharide that has been widely explored for the development of anticancer therapies due to its ability to target cancer cells. Moreover, advances made in the last decade have revealed the versatility of this biomaterial in the design of multifunctional carriers, intended for the delivery of a variety of bioactive molecules, including polynucleotides, immunomodulatory drugs and imaging agents. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the major recent achievements in this field, highlighting the application of the newly developed nanostructures in combination therapies, immunomodulation and theranostics. Finally, we will discuss the main challenges and technological advances that will allow these carriers to be considered as candidates for clinical development.

  13. Do workplace physical activity interventions improve mental health outcomes?

    PubMed

    Chu, A H Y; Koh, D; Moy, F M; Müller-Riemenschneider, F

    2014-06-01

    Mental health is an important issue in the working population. Interventions to improve mental health have included physical activity. To review evidence for the effectiveness of workplace physical activity interventions on mental health outcomes. A literature search was conducted for studies published between 1990 and August 2013. Inclusion criteria were physical activity trials, working populations and mental health outcomes. Study quality was assessed using the Jadad scale. Of 3684 unique articles identified, 17 met all selection criteria, including 13 randomized controlled trials, 2 comparison trials and 2 controlled trials. Studies were grouped into two key intervention areas: physical activity and yoga exercise. Of eight high-quality trials, two provided strong evidence for a reduction in anxiety, one reported moderate evidence for an improvement in depression symptoms and one provided limited evidence on relieving stress. The remaining trials did not provide evidence on improved mental well-being. Workplace physical activity and yoga programmes are associated with a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and anxiety, respectively. Their impact on stress relief is less conclusive. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  14. The Importance of Social Cognition in Improving Functional Outcomes in Schizophrenia

    PubMed Central

    Javed, Afzal; Charles, Asha

    2018-01-01

    Social cognition has become recognized as an important driver of functional outcomes and overall recovery in patients with schizophrenia, mediating the relationship between neurocognition and social functioning. Since antipsychotic therapy targeting remission of clinical symptoms has been shown to have a limited impact on social cognition, there has been an increasing drive to develop therapeutic strategies to specifically improve social cognition in schizophrenia. We sought to review current evidence relating to social cognition in schizophrenia and its clinical implications, including interventions designed to target the core domains of social cognition (emotion processing, theory of mind, attributional bias, and social perception) as a means of improving functional outcomes and thereby increasing the likelihood of recovery. Relevant articles were identified by conducting a literature search in PubMed using the search terms “schizophrenia” AND “cognition” AND “social functioning,” limited to Title/Abstract, over a time period of the past 10 years. Current evidence demonstrates that schizophrenia is associated with impairments in all four core domains of social cognition, during the pre-first-episode, first-episode, early, and chronic phases of the disease, and that such impairments are important determinants of functional outcome. Interventions targeting the four core domains of social cognition comprise psychosocial approaches (social cognition training programs) and pharmacological therapies. Social cognition training programs targeting multiple and specific core domains of social cognition have shown promise in improving social cognition skills, which, in some cases, has translated into improvements in functional outcomes. Use of some psychosocial interventions has additionally resulted in improvements in clinical symptoms and/or quality of life. Pharmacological therapies, including oxytocin and certain antipsychotics, have yielded more mixed

  15. Accelerated wound healing of oral soft tissues and angiogenic effect induced by a pool of aminoacids combined to sodium hyaluronate (AMINOGAM).

    PubMed

    Favia, G; Mariggio, M A; Maiorano, F; Cassano, A; Capodiferro, S; Ribatti, D

    2008-01-01

    In this study we investigated the property of a new medical substance, in the form of a gel compound containing four aminoacids (glycine, leucine, proline, lysine) and sodium hyaluronate (AMINOGAM), to accelerate the wound healing process of the soft oral tissues and to promote angiogenesis in vivo in the vascular proliferation in chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Furthermore, we investigated the capacity of AMINOGAM to induce the expression of an angiogenic cytokine, namely vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human fibroblasts in vitro. Results showed that AMINOGAM promoted wound healing in post-surgical wounds (after teeth extraction, oral laser surgery with secondary healing without direct suture of the surgical wound, and after dental implant insertion). Stimulated angiogenesis in vivo in the CAM assay and the response was similar to that obtained with vascular endothelial growth factor, a well-known angiogenic cytokine, tested in the same assay, and confirmed by clinical outcomes, which showed reduction of the healing time of oral soft tissues after three different kinds of surgery and also the absence of post-operative infections.

  16. Providing Outcomes Information to Nursing Homes: Can It Improve Quality of Care?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Castle, Nicholas G.

    2003-01-01

    Purpose: This study examined whether providing outcomes information to 120 nursing homes facilitated improvements in quality over a 12-month period, as compared with 1,171 facilities not receiving this information. The outcomes information provided consisted of a report mailed to administrators that examined six measures of care quality. These…

  17. CBT competence in novice therapists improves anxiety outcomes.

    PubMed

    Brown, Lily A; Craske, Michelle G; Glenn, Daniel E; Stein, Murray B; Sullivan, Greer; Sherbourne, Cathy; Bystritsky, Alexander; Welch, Stacy S; Campbell-Sills, Laura; Lang, Ariel; Roy-Byrne, Peter; Rose, Raphael D

    2013-02-01

    This study explores the relationships between therapist variables (cognitive behavioral therapy [CBT] competence, and CBT adherence) and clinical outcomes of computer-assisted CBT for anxiety disorders delivered by novice therapists in a primary care setting. Participants were recruited for a randomized controlled trial of evidence-based treatment, including computer-assisted CBT, versus treatment as usual. Therapists (anxiety clinical specialists; ACSs) were nonexpert clinicians, many of whom had no prior experience in delivering psychotherapy (and in particular, very little experience with CBT). Trained raters reviewed randomly selected treatment sessions from 176 participants and rated therapists on measures of CBT competence and CBT adherence. Patients were assessed at baseline and at 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow-ups on measures of anxiety, depression, and functioning, and an average Reliable Change Index was calculated as a composite measure of outcome. CBT competence and CBT adherence were entered as predictors of outcome, after controlling for baseline covariates. Higher CBT competence was associated with better clinical outcomes whereas CBT adherence was not. Also, CBT competence was inversely correlated with years of clinical experience and trended (not significantly, though) down as the study progressed. CBT adherence was inversely correlated with therapist tenure in the study. Therapist competence was related to improved clinical outcomes when CBT for anxiety disorders was delivered by novice clinicians with technology assistance. The results highlight the value of the initial training for novice therapists as well as booster training to limit declines in therapist adherence. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  18. Proactive Approaches to Improving Outcomes for At-Risk Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Freeman, G.; Gum, M.; Blackbourn, J. M.

    This paper outlines two approaches for improving outcomes for students at risk for academic failure. Both take a systemic approach to the problem by focusing on how specific circumstances create a reality of failure for many students. One school analyzed factors related to retention/promotion decisions and determined that four factors directly…

  19. Efficacy of a crosslinked hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel as a tear film supplement: a masked controlled study.

    PubMed

    Williams, David L; Mann, Brenda K

    2014-01-01

    Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), or dry eye, is a significant medical problem in both humans and dogs. Treating KCS often requires the daily application of more than one type of eye drop in order to both stimulate tear prodcution and provide a tear supplement to increase hydration and lubrication. A previous study demonstrated the potential for a crosslinked hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel (xCMHA-S) to reduce the clinical signs associated with KCS in dogs while using a reduced dosing regimen of only twice-daily administration. The present study extended those results by comparing the use of the xCMHA-S to a standard HA-containing tear supplement in a masked, randomized clinical study in dogs with a clinical diagnosis of KCS. The xCMHA-S was found to significantly improve ocular surface health (conjunctival hyperaemia, ocular irritation, and ocular discharge) to a greater degree than the alternative tear supplement (P = 0.0003). Further, owners reported the xCMHA-S treatment as being more highly effective than the alternative tear supplement (P = 0.0024). These results further demonstrate the efficacy of the xCMHA-S in reducing the clinical signs associated with KCS, thereby improving patient health and owner happiness.

  20. Retinaldehyde/hyaluronic acid fragments: a synergistic association for the management of skin aging.

    PubMed

    Cordero, Andres; Leon-Dorantes, Gladys; Pons-Guiraud, Annick; Di Pietro, Anonio; Asensi, Santiago Vidal; Walkiewicz-Cyraska, Barbara; Litvik, Radek; Turlier, Virginie; Mery, Sophie; Merial-Kieny, Christelle

    2011-06-01

    Retinaldehyde (RAL) was proven effective in treating photodamaged skin. Topical treatments with specific intermediate-size hyaluronate fragments (HAFi, 50-400 kDa) have been shown to stimulate keratinocytes proliferation and epidermal hyperplasia. The aim of this open, multicentric, international study was to assess the efficacy of the combination RAL-HAFi in the correction of skin photoaging. Either RAL 0.05%-HAFi 0.5% (Eluage® cream; group 1) or RAL 0.05%-HAFi 1% (Eluage® antiwrinkle concentrate; group 2) or both products (group 3) were applied daily to the 1462 subjects during 90 days. Overall photoaging severity was evaluated in the three groups by the dermatologists at D0, D30, and D90 based on the Larnier's scale. Wrinkles and/or furrows and clinical signs of aging were evaluated using a 4-point scale. The skin microrelief of the crow's feet, evaluated by optical profilometry, was performed in subjects from group 3. The 3-month application significantly improved overall photoaging through decrease of the Larnier's score in the three groups (P<0.001). At D90, significant improvement of wrinkles was shown in groups 2 and 3 [forehead wrinkles (-19% and -10%, respectively, P<0.001), nasolabial folds (-20% and -16%, P<0.001), crow's feet (-27% in the two groups, P<0.001), and perioral wrinkles (-34% and -23%, P<0.001)]. Clinical signs of photoaging on the entire face improved significantly in groups 1 and 3 [elasticity (-32% and -33%, respectively, P<0.001), hyperpigmentation (-34% and -31%, P<0.001), and ptosis (-18% and -22%; P<0.001)]. Results were confirmed using an optical profilometry technique. Products were very well tolerated. This clinical study showed the efficacy and value of the RAL-HAFi combination in the management of aging skin in a large cohort of patients. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  1. Setting the vision: applied patient-reported outcomes and smart, connected digital healthcare systems to improve patient-centered outcomes prediction in critical illness.

    PubMed

    Wysham, Nicholas G; Abernethy, Amy P; Cox, Christopher E

    2014-10-01

    Prediction models in critical illness are generally limited to short-term mortality and uncommonly include patient-centered outcomes. Current outcome prediction tools are also insensitive to individual context or evolution in healthcare practice, potentially limiting their value over time. Improved prognostication of patient-centered outcomes in critical illness could enhance decision-making quality in the ICU. Patient-reported outcomes have emerged as precise methodological measures of patient-centered variables and have been successfully employed using diverse platforms and technologies, enhancing the value of research in critical illness survivorship and in direct patient care. The learning health system is an emerging ideal characterized by integration of multiple data sources into a smart and interconnected health information technology infrastructure with the goal of rapidly optimizing patient care. We propose a vision of a smart, interconnected learning health system with integrated electronic patient-reported outcomes to optimize patient-centered care, including critical care outcome prediction. A learning health system infrastructure integrating electronic patient-reported outcomes may aid in the management of critical illness-associated conditions and yield tools to improve prognostication of patient-centered outcomes in critical illness.

  2. Improving the relevance and consistency of outcomes in comparative effectiveness research.

    PubMed

    Tunis, Sean R; Clarke, Mike; Gorst, Sarah L; Gargon, Elizabeth; Blazeby, Jane M; Altman, Douglas G; Williamson, Paula R

    2016-03-01

    Policy makers have clearly indicated--through heavy investment in the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute--that reporting outcomes that are meaningful to patients is crucial for improvement in healthcare delivery and cost reduction. Better interpretation and generalizability of clinical research results that incorporate patient-centered outcomes research can be achieved by accelerating the development and uptake of core outcome sets (COS). COS provide a standardized minimum set of the outcomes that should be measured and reported in all clinical trials of a specific condition. The level of activity around COS has increased significantly over the past decade, with substantial progress in several clinical domains. However, there are many important clinical conditions for which high-quality COS have not been developed and there are limited resources and capacity with which to develop them. We believe that meaningful progress toward the goals behind the significant investments in patient-centered outcomes research and comparative effectiveness research will depend on a serious effort to address these issues.

  3. Improving the relevance and consistency of outcomes in comparative effectiveness research

    PubMed Central

    Tunis, Sean R; Clarke, Mike; Gorst, Sarah L; Gargon, Elizabeth; Blazeby, Jane M; Altman, Douglas G; Williamson, Paula R

    2016-01-01

    Policy makers have clearly indicated – through heavy investment in the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute – that reporting outcomes that are meaningful to patients is crucial for improvement in healthcare delivery and cost reduction. Better interpretation and generalizability of clinical research results that incorporate patient-centered outcomes research can be achieved by accelerating the development and uptake of core outcome sets (COS). COS provide a standardized minimum set of the outcomes that should be measured and reported in all clinical trials of a specific condition. The level of activity around COS has increased significantly over the past decade, with substantial progress in several clinical domains. However, there are many important clinical conditions for which high-quality COS have not been developed and there are limited resources and capacity with which to develop them. We believe that meaningful progress toward the goals behind the significant investments in patient-centered outcomes research and comparative effectiveness research will depend on a serious effort to address these issues. PMID:26930385

  4. Housing improvements for health and associated socio-economic outcomes.

    PubMed

    Thomson, Hilary; Thomas, Sian; Sellstrom, Eva; Petticrew, Mark

    2013-02-28

    The well established links between poor housing and poor health indicate that housing improvement may be an important mechanism through which public investment can lead to health improvement. Intervention studies which have assessed the health impacts of housing improvements are an important data resource to test assumptions about the potential for health improvement. Evaluations may not detect long term health impacts due to limited follow-up periods. Impacts on socio-economic determinants of health may be a valuable proxy indication of the potential for longer term health impacts. To assess the health and social impacts on residents following improvements to the physical fabric of housing. Twenty seven academic and grey literature bibliographic databases were searched for housing intervention studies from 1887 to July 2012 (ASSIA; Avery Index; CAB Abstracts; The Campbell Library; CINAHL; The Cochrane Library; COPAC; DH-DATA: Health Admin; EMBASE; Geobase; Global Health; IBSS; ICONDA; MEDLINE; MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations; NTIS; PAIS; PLANEX; PsycINFO; RIBA; SCIE; Sociological Abstracts; Social Science Citations Index; Science Citations Index expanded; SIGLE; SPECTR). Twelve Scandinavian grey literature and policy databases (Libris; SveMed+; Libris uppsök; DIVA; Artikelsök; NORART; DEFF; AKF; DSI; SBI; Statens Institut for Folkesundhed; Social.dk) and 23 relevant websites were searched. In addition, a request to topic experts was issued for details of relevant studies. Searches were not restricted by language or publication status. Studies which assessed change in any health outcome following housing improvement were included. This included experimental studies and uncontrolled studies. Cross-sectional studies were excluded as correlations are not able to shed light on changes in outcomes. Studies reporting only socio-economic outcomes or indirect measures of health, such as health service use, were excluded. All housing improvements which

  5. Identification of potential biophysical and molecular signalling mechanisms underlying hyaluronic acid enhancement of cartilage formation

    PubMed Central

    Responte, Donald J.; Natoli, Roman M.; Athanasiou, Kyriacos A.

    2012-01-01

    This study determined the effects of exogenous hyaluronic acid (HA) on the biomechanical and biochemical properties of self-assembled bovine chondrocytes, and investigated biophysical and genetic mechanisms underlying these effects. The effects of HA commencement time, concentration, application duration and molecular weight were examined using histology, biomechanics and biochemistry. Additionally, the effects of HA application on sulphated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) retention were assessed. To investigate the influence of HA on gene expression, microarray analysis was conducted. HA treatment of developing neocartilage increased compressive stiffness onefold and increased sulphated GAG content by 35 per cent. These effects were dependent on HA molecular weight, concentration and application commencement time. Additionally, applying HA increased sulphated GAG retention within self-assembled neotissue. HA administration also upregulated 503 genes, including multiple genes associated with TGF-β1 signalling. Increased sulphated GAG retention indicated that HA could enhance compressive stiffness by increasing the osmotic pressure that negatively charged GAGs create. The gene expression data demonstrate that HA treatment differentially regulates genes related to TGF-β1 signalling, revealing a potential mechanism for altering matrix composition. These results illustrate the potential use of HA to improve cartilage regeneration efforts and better understand cartilage development. PMID:22809846

  6. Hyaluronic acid-modified zirconium phosphate nanoparticles for potential lung cancer therapy.

    PubMed

    Li, Ranwei; Liu, Tiecheng; Wang, Ke

    2017-02-01

    Novel tumor-targeting zirconium phosphate (ZP) nanoparticles modified with hyaluronic acid (HA) were developed (HA-ZP), with the aim of combining the drug-loading property of ZP and the tumor-targeting ability of HA to construct a tumor-targeting paclitaxel (PTX) delivery system for potential lung cancer therapy. The experimental results indicated that PTX loading into the HA-ZP nanoparticles was as high as 20.36%±4.37%, which is favorable for cancer therapy. PTX-loaded HA-ZP nanoparticles increased the accumulation of PTX in A549 lung cancer cells via HA-mediated endocytosis and exhibited superior anticancer activity in vitro. In vivo anticancer efficacy assay revealed that HA-ZP nanoparticles possessed preferable anticancer abilities, which exhibited minimized toxic side effects of PTX and strong tumor-suppression potential in clinical application.

  7. Intracellular delivery and antitumor effects of a redox-responsive polymeric paclitaxel conjugate based on hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Yin, Shaoping; Huai, Jue; Chen, Xi; Yang, Yong; Zhang, Xinxin; Gan, Yong; Wang, Guangji; Gu, Xiaochen; Li, Juan

    2015-10-01

    Polymer-drug conjugates have demonstrated application potentials in optimizing chemotherapeutics. In this study a new bioconjugate, HA-ss-PTX, was designed and synthesized with cooperative dual characteristics of active tumor targeting and selective intracellular drug release. Paclitaxel (PTX) was covalently attached to hyaluronic acid (HA) with various sizes (MW 9.5, 35, 770 kDa); a cross-linker containing disulfide bond was also used to shield drug leakage in blood circulation and to achieve rapid drug release in tumor cells in response to glutathione. Incorporation of HA to the conjugate enhanced the capabilities of drug loading, intracellular endocytosis and tumor targeting of micelles in comparison to mPEG. HA molecular weight showed significant effect on properties and antitumor efficacy of the synthesized conjugates. Intracellular uptake of HA-ss-PTX toward MCF-7 cells was mediated by CD44-caveolae-mediated endocytosis. Compared to Taxol and mPEG-ss-PTX, HA9.5-ss-PTX demonstrated improved tumor growth inhibition in vivo with a TIR of 83.27 ± 5.20%. It was concluded that HA9.5-ss-PTX achieved rapid intracellular release of PTX and enhanced its therapeutic efficacy, thus providing a platform for specific drug targeting and controlled intracellular release in chemotherapeutics. Polymer-drug conjugates, promising nanomedicines, still face some technical challenges including a lack of specific targeting and rapid intracellular drug release at the target site. In this manuscript we designed and constructed a novel bioconjugate HA-ss-PTX, which possessed coordinated dual characteristics of active tumor targeting and selective intracellular drug release. Redox-responsive disulfide bond was introduced to the conjugate to shield drug leakage in blood circulation and to achieve rapid drug release at tumor site in response to reductant like glutathione. Paclitaxel was selected as a model drug to be covalently attached to hyaluronic acid (HA) with various sizes to

  8. Lack of Early Improvement Predicts Poor Outcome Following Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

    PubMed

    Yogendrakumar, Vignan; Smith, Eric E; Demchuk, Andrew M; Aviv, Richard I; Rodriguez-Luna, David; Molina, Carlos A; Silva Blas, Yolanda; Dzialowski, Imanuel; Kobayashi, Adam; Boulanger, Jean-Martin; Lum, Cheemun; Gubitz, Gord; Padma, Vasantha; Roy, Jayanta; Kase, Carlos S; Bhatia, Rohit; Ali, Myzoon; Lyden, Patrick; Hill, Michael D; Dowlatshahi, Dar

    2018-04-01

    There are limited data as to what degree of early neurologic change best relates to outcome in acute intracerebral hemorrhage. We aimed to derive and validate a threshold for early postintracerebral hemorrhage change that best predicts 90-day outcomes. Derivation: retrospective analysis of collated clinical stroke trial data (Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive). retrospective analysis of a prospective multicenter cohort study (Prediction of haematoma growth and outcome in patients with intracerebral haemorrhage using the CT-angiography spot sign [PREDICT]). Neurocritical and ICUs. Patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage presenting less than 6 hours. Derivation: 552 patients; validation: 275 patients. None. We generated a receiver operating characteristic curve for the association between 24-hour National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale change and clinical outcome. The primary outcome was a modified Rankin Scale score of 4-6 at 90 days; secondary outcomes were other modified Rankin Scale score ranges (modified Rankin Scale, 2-6, 3-6, 5-6, 6). We employed Youden's J Index to select optimal cut points and calculated sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. We determined independent predictors via multivariable logistic regression. The derived definitions were validated in the PREDICT cohort. Twenty-four-hour National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale change was strongly associated with 90-day outcome with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.75. Youden's method showed an optimum cut point at -0.5, corresponding to National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale change of greater than or equal to 0 (a lack of clinical improvement), which was seen in 46%. Early neurologic change accurately predicted poor outcome when defined as greater than or equal to 0 (sensitivity, 65%; specificity, 73%; positive predictive value, 70%; adjusted odds ratio, 5.05 [CI, 3.25-7.85]) or greater than or equal to 4 (sensitivity, 19%; specificity

  9. [A CASE OF DEXTRANOMER-HYALURONIC ACID COPOLYMER (Deflux®) IMPLANTS CALCIFICATION MIMICKING DISTAL URETERAL CALCULI].

    PubMed

    Matsumoto, Fumi; Matsui, Futoshi; Yazawa, Koji; Shimada, Kenji

    2017-01-01

    Since 2011, endoscopic correction of vesicoureteral reflux using dextranomer-hyaluronic acid copolymer (Deflux ® ) has been widely accepted in Japan due to its safety and minimally invasive nature. However, long-term complications are unknown. We present a case of Deflux ® implants calcification mimicking distal ureteral calculi in a 12-year-old boy with a history of Deflux ® injection performed at three years of age for primary VUR. We should be aware of this complication to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive examination such as radiological imaging or endoscopy.

  10. Hyaluronic acid increases tendon derived cell viability and proliferation in vitro: comparative study of two different hyaluronic acid preparations by molecular weight.

    PubMed

    Gallorini, Marialucia; Berardi, Anna C; Berardocco, Martina; Gissi, Clarissa; Maffulli, Nicola; Cataldi, Amelia; Oliva, Francesco

    2017-01-01

    Hyaluronic Acid (HA) has been already approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for osteoarthritis (OA), while its use in the treatment of tendinopathy is still debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different HA on human rotator cuff tendon derived cells in terms of cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis. An in vitro model was developed on human tendon derived cells from rotator cuff tears to study the effects of two different HA preparations: Sinovial HL® (High-Low molecular weight) (MW: 80-100 kDa) and KDa Sinovial Forte SF (MW: 800-1200), at various concentrations. Tendon derived cells morphology was evaluated after 0, 7 and 14 d of culture. Viability and proliferation were analyzed after 0, 24, and 48 h of culture and apoptosis occurrence was assessed after 24 h of culture. All the HAPs tested here increased viability and proliferation, in a dose-dependent manner and they reduced apoptosis at early stages (24 h) compared to control cells (without HAPs). HAPs enhanced viability and proliferation and counteracted apoptosis in tendon derived cells.

  11. Chemical hydrogels based on a hyaluronic acid-graft-α-elastin derivative as potential scaffolds for tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Palumbo, Fabio Salvatore; Pitarresi, Giovanna; Fiorica, Calogero; Rigogliuso, Salvatrice; Ghersi, Giulio; Giammona, Gaetano

    2013-07-01

    In this work hyaluronic acid (HA) functionalized with ethylenediamine (EDA) has been employed to graft α-elastin. In particular a HA-EDA derivative bearing 50 mol% of pendant amino groups has been successfully employed to produce the copolymer HA-EDA-g-α-elastin containing 32% w/w of protein. After grafting with α-elastin, remaining free amino groups reacted with ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDGE) for producing chemical hydrogels, proposed as scaffolds for tissue engineering. Swelling degree, resistance to chemical and enzymatic hydrolysis, as well as preliminary biological properties of HA-EDA-g-α-elastin/EGDGE scaffold have been evaluated and compared with a HA-EDA/EGDGE scaffold. The presence of α-elastin grafted to HA-EDA improves attachment, viability and proliferation of primary rat dermal fibroblasts and human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells. Biological performance of HA-EDA-g-α-elastin/EGDGE scaffold resulted comparable to that of a commercial collagen type I sponge (Antema®), chosen as a positive control. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. The effect of layer-by-layer chitosan-hyaluronic acid coating on graft-to-bone healing of a poly(ethylene terephthalate) artificial ligament.

    PubMed

    Li, Hong; Ge, Yunsheng; Zhang, Pengyun; Wu, Lingxiang; Chen, Shiyi

    2012-01-01

    Surface coating with an organic layer-by-layer self-assembled template of chitosan and hyaluronic acid on a poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) artificial ligament was designed for the promotion and enhancement of graft-to-bone healing after artificial ligament implantation in a bone tunnel. The results of in vitro culturing of MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblastic cells supported the hypothesis that the layer-by-layer coating of chitosan and hyaluronic acid could promote the cell compatibility of grafts and could promote osteoblast proliferation. A rabbit extra-articular tendon-to-bone healing model was used to evaluate the effect of this kind of surface-modified stainless artificial ligament in vivo. The final results proved that this organic compound coating could significantly promote and enhance new bone formation at the graft-bone interface histologically and, correspondingly, the experimental group with coating had significantly higher biomechanical properties compared with controls at 8 weeks (P < 0.05).

  13. Evidence based management for paediatric burn: new approaches and improved scar outcomes.

    PubMed

    Kishikova, Lyudmila; Smith, Matthew D; Cubison, Tania C S

    2014-12-01

    Little evidence has been produced on the best practice for managing paediatric burns. We set out to develop a formal approach based on the finding that hypertrophic scarring is related to healing-time, with durations under 21 days associated with improved scar outcome. Incorporating new advances in burn care, we compared outcomes under the new approach to a cohort treated previously. Our study was a retrospective cross-sectional case note study, with demographic, treatment and outcome information collected. The management and outcome of each case was assessed and compared against another paediatric burns cohort from 2006. 181 burns presenting across a six month period were analysed (2010 cohort) and compared to 337 children from a previous cohort from 2006. Comparison of patients between cohorts showed an overall shift towards shorter healing-times in the 2010 cohort. A lower overall rate of hypertrophic scarring was seen in the 2010 cohort, and for corresponding healing-times after injury, hypertrophic scarring rates were halved in comparison to the 2006 cohort. We demonstrate that the use of a structured approach for paediatric burns has improved outcomes with regards to healing-time and hypertrophic scarring rate. This approach allows maximisation of healing potential and implements aggressive prophylactic measures. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

  14. Improving stroke outcome: the benefits of increasing availability of technology.

    PubMed Central

    Heller, R. F.; Langhorne, P.; James, E.

    2000-01-01

    INTRODUCTION: A decision analysis was performed to explore the potential benefits of interventions to improve the outcome of patients admitted to hospital with a stroke, in the context of the technology available in different parts of the world. METHODS: The outcome of death or dependency was used with a six-month end-point. RESULTS: Four settings were identified that would depend on the resources available. The proportion of stroke patients who were dead or dependent at six months was 61.5% with no intervention at all. Setting 4, with the only intervention being the delayed introduction of aspirin, produced a 0.5% absolute improvement in outcome (death or dependency), and the addition of an organized stroke unit (Setting 3) produced the largest incremental improvement, of 2.7%. Extra interventions associated with non-urgent computed tomography and thus the ability to avoid anticoagulation or aspirin for those with a haemorrhagic stroke (Setting 2), and immediate computed tomography scanning to allow the use of thrombolytics in non-haemorrhagic stroke (Setting 1), produced only small incremental benefits of 0.4% in each case. DISCUSSION: To reduce the burden of illness due to stroke, efforts at primary prevention are essential and likely to have a greater impact than even the best interventions after the event. In the absence of good primary prevention, whatever is possible must be done to reduce the sequelae of stroke. This analysis provides a rational basis for beginning the development of clinical guidelines applicable to the economic setting of the patient. PMID:11143194

  15. A Checklist-based Intervention to Improve Surgical Outcomes in Michigan: Evaluation of the Keystone Surgery Program

    PubMed Central

    Reames, Bradley N.; Krell, Robert W.; Campbell, Darrell A.; Dimick, Justin B.

    2015-01-01

    Importance Previous studies of checklist-based quality improvement interventions have reported mixed results. Objective To evaluate whether implementation of a checklist-based quality improvement intervention, Keystone Surgery, was associated with improved outcomes in patients undergoing general surgery in large statewide population. Design, Setting and Exposure Retrospective longitudinal study examining surgical outcomes in Michigan patients using Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative clinical registry data from the years 2006–2010 (n=64,891 patients in 29 hospitals). Multivariable logistic regression and difference-in-differences analytic approaches were used to evaluate whether Keystone Surgery program implementation was associated with improved surgical outcomes following general surgery procedures, apart from existing temporal trends toward improved outcomes during the study period. Main Outcome Measures Risk-adjusted rates of superficial surgical site infection, wound complications, any complication, and 30-day mortality. Results Implementation of Keystone Surgery in participating centers (n=14 hospitals) was not associated with improvements in surgical outcomes during the study period. Adjusted rates of superficial surgical site infection (3.2 vs. 3.2%, p=0.91), wound complications (5.9 vs. 6.5%, p=0.30), any complication (12.4 vs. 13.2%, p=0.26), and 30-day mortality (2.1 vs. 1.9%, p=0.32) at participating hospitals were similar before and after implementation. Difference-in-differences analysis accounting for trends in non-participating centers (n=15 hospitals), and sensitivity analysis excluding patients receiving surgery in the first 6- or 12-months after program implementation yielded similar results. Conclusions and Relevance Implementation of a checklist-based quality improvement intervention did not impact rates of adverse surgical outcomes among patients undergoing general surgery in participating Michigan hospitals. Additional research is

  16. Adherence to the dialysis prescription: partnering with patients for improved outcomes.

    PubMed

    White, Randee Breiterman

    2004-01-01

    Nonadherence is common in the U.S. dialysis population. No single strategy has been definitely proven to yield universal and/or lasting improvements in adherence. However, using a patient-centered approach, including the removal of barriers to adherence, ongoing education, and cognitive behavioral strategies, may generate increased opportunities for patients and the nephrology staff to improve both adherence and outcomes.

  17. Is ice right? Does cryotherapy improve outcome for acute soft tissue injury?

    PubMed

    Collins, N C

    2008-02-01

    The use of ice or cryotherapy in the management of acute soft tissue injuries is widely accepted and widely practised. This review was conducted to examine the medical literature to investigate if there is evidence to support an improvement in clinical outcome following the use of ice or cryotherapy. A comprehensive literature search was performed and all human and animal trials or systematic reviews pertaining to soft tissue trauma, ice or cryotherapy were assessed. The clinically relevant outcome measures were (1) a reduction in pain; (2) a reduction in swelling or oedema; (3) improved function; or (4) return to participation in normal activity. Six relevant trials in humans were identified, four of which lacked randomisation and blinding. There were two well conducted randomised controlled trials, one showing supportive evidence for the use of a cooling gel and the other not reaching statistical significance. Four animal studies showed that modest cooling reduced oedema but excessive or prolonged cooling is damaging. There were two systematic reviews, one of which was inconclusive and the other suggested that ice may hasten return to participation. There is insufficient evidence to suggest that cryotherapy improves clinical outcome in the management of soft tissue injuries.

  18. Implementation of an institutional program to improve clinical and financial outcomes of mechanically ventilated patients: one-year outcomes and lessons learned.

    PubMed

    Burns, Suzanne M; Earven, Sidenia; Fisher, Charles; Lewis, Rose; Merrell, Paul; Schubart, Jane R; Truwit, Jonathon D; Bleck, Thomas P

    2003-12-01

    To determine the effect of an institutional approach to the care of patients requiring mechanical ventilation for longer than three consecutive days in five adult intensive care units (ICU) on clinical and financial outcomes. A multidisciplinary team was selected from five adult ICUs to design the approach. Planning occurred from August 1999 to September 2000. The process was called outcomes management (OM) and included an evidence-based clinical pathway, protocols for weaning and sedation use, and the selection of four advanced practice nurses (called outcomes managers) to manage and monitor the program. The project was completed in a 550-bed mid-Atlantic academic medical center. The ICUs included the following: coronary care, medical ICU, neuroscience ICU, surgical trauma ICU, and thoracic cardiovascular ICU. The sample included 595 pre-OM patients and 510 post-OM patients mechanically ventilated for greater than three consecutive days. Full implementation of the OM approach occurred in March 2001. Retrospective baseline (18 months pre-OM) and prospective (12 months OM) clinical and financial data were compared. Statistically significant differences in clinical outcomes were demonstrated in the managed patients compared with those managed before the institutional approach. Outcomes include ventilator duration (median days declined from ten to nine; p =.0001), ICU length of stay (median days declined from 15 to 12; p =.0008), hospital length of stay (median days declined from 22 to 20; p =.0001), and mortality rate (declined from 38% to 31%, p =.02). More than 3,000,000 US dollars cost savings were realized in the OM group. This institutional approach to the care of patients ventilated >3 days improved all clinical and financial outcomes of interest. To date, few similar initiatives have demonstrated similar results. The approach and lessons learned in this process improvement project may be helpful to other institutions attempting to improve outcomes in this

  19. Standardized Treatment of Neonatal Status Epilepticus Improves Outcome.

    PubMed

    Harris, Mandy L; Malloy, Katherine M; Lawson, Sheena N; Rose, Rebecca S; Buss, William F; Mietzsch, Ulrike

    2016-12-01

    We aimed to decrease practice variation in treatment of neonatal status epilepticus by implementing a standardized protocol. Our primary goal was to achieve 80% adherence to the algorithm within 12 months. Secondary outcome measures included serum phenobarbital concentrations, number of patients progressing from seizures to status epilepticus, and length of hospital stay. Data collection occurred for 6 months prior and 12 months following protocol implementation. Adherence of 80% within 12 months was partially achieved in patients diagnosed in our hospital; in pretreated patients, adherence was not achieved. Maximum phenobarbital concentrations were decreased (56.8 vs 41.0 µg/mL), fewer patients progressed from seizures to status epilepticus (46% vs 36%), and hospital length of stay decreased by 9.7 days in survivors. In conclusion, standardized, protocol-driven treatment of neonatal status epilepticus improves consistency and short-term outcome. © The Author(s) 2016.

  20. How do aggregated patient-reported outcome measures data stimulate health care improvement? A realist synthesis

    PubMed Central

    Dalkin, Sonia; Gibbons, Elizabeth; Wright, Judy; Valderas, Jose Maria; Meads, David; Black, Nick

    2017-01-01

    Objectives Internationally, there has been considerable debate about the role of data in supporting quality improvement in health care. Our objective was to understand how, why and in what circumstances the feedback of aggregated patient-reported outcome measures data improved patient care. Methods We conducted a realist synthesis. We identified three main programme theories underlying the use of patient-reported outcome measures as a quality improvement strategy and expressed them as nine ‘if then’ propositions. We identified international evidence to test these propositions through searches of electronic databases and citation tracking, and supplemented our synthesis with evidence from similar forms of performance data. We synthesized this evidence through comparing the mechanisms and impact of patient-reported outcome measures and other performance data on quality improvement in different contexts. Results Three programme theories were identified: supporting patient choice, improving accountability and enabling providers to compare their performance with others. Relevant contextual factors were extent of public disclosure, use of financial incentives, perceived credibility of the data and the practicality of the results. Available evidence suggests that patients or their agents rarely use any published performance data when selecting a provider. The perceived motivation behind public reporting is an important determinant of how providers respond. When clinicians perceived that performance indicators were not credible but were incentivized to collect them, gaming or manipulation of data occurred. Outcome data do not provide information on the cause of poor care: providers needed to integrate and interpret patient-reported outcome measures and other outcome data in the context of other data. Lack of timeliness of performance data constrains their impact. Conclusions Although there is only limited research evidence to support some widely held theories of how

  1. A Measurement Feedback System (MFS) Is Necessary to Improve Mental Health Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bickman, Leonard

    2008-01-01

    The importance of measurement feedback system (MFS) for the improvement of mental health services for youths is discussed. As feedback obtained from clients and families is subject to distortions, a standardized MFS including clinical processes, contexts, outcomes, and feedback to clinicians and supervisors is necessary for improvement in quality…

  2. Clinical Application of Earlobe Augmentation with Hyaluronic Acid Filler in the Chinese Population.

    PubMed

    Qian, Wei; Zhang, Yan-Kun; Cao, Qian; Hou, Ying; Lv, Wei; Fan, Ju-Feng

    2017-02-01

    Larger earlobes, which are a symbol of "richness" in traditional Chinese culture, are favored by Chinese patients. The objective of this paper is to investigate the application of earlobe augmentation with hyaluronic acid (HA) filler injection and its clinical effects in the Chinese population. A total of 19 patients (38 ears) who received earlobe augmentation with HA filler injections between March 2013 and March 2015 were included. The clinical effects, duration, and complications of these cases were investigated. All patients who received earlobe HA injections showed immediate postoperative effects with obvious morphological improvement of their earlobes. The volume of HA filler injected into each ear was 0.3-0.5 ml. The duration of the effect was 6-9 months. Two of the 19 cases (3 ears) demonstrated mild bruising at the injection site, but the bruising completely disappeared within 7 days after the injection. No vascular embolism, infection, nodule, or granuloma complications were observed in the studied group. The application of earlobe augmentation with HA filler injection is a safe, effective, simple procedure for earlobe shaping. It has an easy clinical application with good clinical prospects. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

  3. Stem Cell-Containing Hyaluronic Acid-Based Spongy Hydrogels for Integrated Diabetic Wound Healing.

    PubMed

    da Silva, Lucília Pereira; Santos, Tírcia Carlos; Rodrigues, Daniel Barreira; Pirraco, Rogério Pedro; Cerqueira, Mariana Teixeira; Reis, Rui Luís; Correlo, Vitor Manuel; Marques, Alexandra Pinto

    2017-07-01

    The detailed pathophysiology of diabetic foot ulcers is yet to be established and improved treatments are still required. We propose a strategy that directs inflammation, neovascularization, and neoinnervation of diabetic wounds. Aiming to potentiate a relevant secretome for nerve regeneration, stem cells were precultured in hyaluronic acid-based spongy hydrogels under neurogenic/standard media before transplantation into diabetic mice full-thickness wounds. Acellular spongy hydrogels and empty wounds were used as controls. Re-epithelialization was attained 4 weeks after transplantation independently of the test groups, whereas a thicker and more differentiated epidermis was observed for the cellular spongy hydrogels. A switch from the inflammatory to the proliferative phase of wound healing was revealed for all the experimental groups 2 weeks after injury, but a significantly higher M2(CD163 + )/M1(CD86 + ) subtype ratio was observed in the neurogenic preconditioned group that also failed to promote neoinnervation. A higher number of intraepidermal nerve fibers were observed for the unconditioned group probably due to a more controlled transition from the inflammatory to the proliferative phase. Overall, stem cell-containing spongy hydrogels represent a promising approach to enhance diabetic wound healing by positively impacting re-epithelialization and by modulating the inflammatory response to promote a successful neoinnervation. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Biocatalytic response of multi-layer assembled collagen/hyaluronic acid nanoengineered capsules.

    PubMed

    Sousa, Fernanda; Kreft, Oliver; Sukhorukov, Gleb B; Möhwald, Helmuth; Kokol, Vanja

    2014-01-01

    Biodegradable hollow capsules filled with fluorescently labelled bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model drug were prepared via layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly of type-I collagen (COL) and hyaluronic acid (HA) using calcium carbonate micro-particles and co-precipitation method. Capsules loaded with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-BSA, tetramethylrhodamin isothiocyanate (TRITC)-BSA or Alex-Fluor-488-BSA, respectively, were characterised before and after core removal using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), whilst the morphologies of individual hollow capsules were assessed using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The sustained release of the encapsulated FITC-BSA protein was attained using enzymatic degradation of the capsule shells by collagenase. The released profile of the fluorescently-labelled BSA indicated that it could be successfully controlled by modulating the number of layers and/or by collagen crosslinking either before or after the capsule's assembly.

  5. Safety and effectiveness of hyaluronic acid fillers in skin of color.

    PubMed

    Grimes, Pearl E; Thomas, Jane A; Murphy, Diane K

    2009-09-01

    To assess the safety and effectiveness of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers in skin of color. Two prospective studies followed up subjects with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes of IV, V, or VI for 24 weeks after dermal filler injections. In a double-blind, randomized study, subjects were injected with one of three high concentration (24 mg/mL) HA fillers (Juvéderm Ultra, Ultra Plus, and 30) in one nasolabial fold and Zyplast collagen in the other. In an open-label, randomized study, subjects received one of three low concentration (5.5 mg/mL) HA fillers (Hylaform, Hylaform Plus, and Captique) in both nasolabial folds. A total of 160 subjects (a subset of 439 study subjects) were randomized and treated with one of the three high concentration fillers, and 119 subjects were randomized and treated with one of the three low concentration fillers. For subjects treated with the high concentration fillers there were no occurrences of hypersensitivity or hypertrophic scarring, and no increased incidence of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation in non-Caucasian vs. Caucasian subjects. For subjects treated with the low concentration fillers there were no occurrences of keloid formation, hypertrophic scarring, hypopigmentation, hypersensitivity, and three instances of mild hyperpigmentation. For all of the fillers the majority of subjects maintained >/=1 point improvement in nasolabial fold severity scores through 24 weeks. All of the HA fillers were well tolerated in individuals with skin of color and demonstrated effectiveness throughout the 24 week period. Furthermore, the fillers provided smooth, natural-looking wrinkle correction in darker skin types.

  6. High-quality care improves outcome in recumbent dairy cattle.

    PubMed

    Poulton, P J; Vizard, A L; Anderson, G A; Pyman, M F

    2016-06-01

    To investigate the influence of the quality of care on outcome and occurrence of secondary damage in recumbent dairy cows. Recumbent dairy cows were monitored during their recumbency under field conditions in South Gippsland, Victoria, Australia. The cause of the original recumbency of 218 downer cows was determined and any secondary damage, day 7 status, final outcome and the nursing conditions of the cows were recorded. A four-tiered grading system describing nursing quality was developed to allow analysis of its influence on outcome and on the occurrence of secondary damage. Day 7 outcome, final outcome and occurrence of important secondary damage were very strongly associated with the level of overall care provided to the recumbent cows. There was a decrease in the percentage of cows recovering by day 7 from 33% to 0%, a decrease from 45% to 0% of cows eventually recovering and an increase from 68% to 100% of cows with clinically important secondary damage as overall care decreased. Management of recumbent cattle is potentially a significant animal welfare issue for the dairy industry and their care is a very important but often under-appreciated aspect of their management. Recovery is positively influenced by high-quality care by improving the chances of recovery from the initial cause of recumbency and by reducing the occurrence of secondary damage. Recumbent cows must either be nursed at a high level of care or euthanased promptly. © 2016 Australian Veterinary Association.

  7. Ethnicity moderates the outcomes of self-enhancement and self-improvement themes in expressive writing.

    PubMed

    Tsai, William; Lau, Anna S; Niles, Andrea N; Coello, Jordan; Lieberman, Matthew D; Ko, Ahra C; Hur, Christopher; Stanton, Annette L

    2015-10-01

    The current study examined whether writing content related to self-enhancing (viz., downward social comparison and situational attributions) and self-improving (viz., upward social comparison and persistence) motivations were differentially related to expressive writing outcomes among 17 Asian American and 17 European American participants. Content analysis of the essays revealed no significant cultural group differences in the likelihood of engaging in self-enhancing versus self-improving reflections on negative personal experiences. However, cultural group differences were apparent in the relation between self-motivation processes and changes in anxiety and depressive symptoms at 3-month follow-up. Among European Americans, writing that reflected downward social comparison predicted positive outcomes, whereas persistence writing themes were related to poorer outcomes. For Asian Americans, writing about persistence was related to positive outcomes, whereas downward social comparison and situational attributions predicted poorer outcomes. Findings provide evidence suggesting culturally distinct mechanisms for the effects of expressive disclosure. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

  8. [The application of cross-linked hyaluronate hydrogel to trabeculectomy].

    PubMed

    Shoji, Nobuyuki; Shimizu, Kimiya; Takahashi, Katsuya; Nemoto, Rika; Kawai, Hiromi; Tomioka, Toshiya

    2004-05-01

    We investigated the possibility of applying cross-linked hyaluronate hydrogel (HA gel) during trabeculectomy in rabbit eyes. 1. We injected 0.9% salt solution (n = 3), Opegan-HI (n = 3), or HA gel (n = 3) into the subconjunctiva to make a follicle, and investigated its size. 2. After making a limbal-based conjunctival flap and a scleral flap, we injected HA gel or 0.9% salt solution into the subconjunctiva of rabbit eyes and sutured each flap (n = 4 each). Three weeks after the operation, we incised the conjunctiva and investigated the case of peeling away the conjunctival flap or the scleral flap. 3. We performed trabeculectomy with and without subconjunctival HA gel (n = 7 and 6, respectively), and compared the reduction of intraocular pressure between the two groups. The results showed that the formation of the follicle was excellent and it was easy to peel away the adhesion. The reduction of intraocular pressure was statistically significant 4 weeks after the operation in which the HA gel was used. It could be useful to apply HA gel in trabeculectomy to prevent adhesion.

  9. LSMO Nanoparticles Coated by Hyaluronic Acid for Magnetic Hyperthermia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Yuanwei; Wang, Ying; Liu, Xi; Lu, Mai; Cao, Jiangwei; Wang, Tao

    2016-12-01

    Magnetic hyperthermia with the treating temperature range of 41-46 °C is an alternative therapy for cancer treatment. In this article, lanthanum strontium manganates (La1- x Sr x MnO3, 0.25 ≤ × ≤ 0.35) magnetic nanoparticles coated by hyaluronic acid (HA) which possesses the ability of targeting tumor cells were prepared by a simple hydrothermal method combined with a high-energy ball milling technique. The crystal structure, morphology, magnetic properties of the HA-coated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), and their heating ability under alternating magnetic field were investigated. It was found the HA-coated La0.7Sr0.3MnO3, with particle diameter of 100 nm, Curie temperature of 45 °C at a concentration 6 mg/ml, gave the optimal induction heating results. The heating temperature saturates at 45.7 °C, and the ESAR is 5.7 × 10-3 W/g · kHz · (kA/m2) which is much higher than other reported results.

  10. Efficacy of hyaluronic acid and hydroxyethyl starch in preventing adhesion following endoscopic sinus surgery.

    PubMed

    Kim, Su-Jong; Shin, Jae-Min; Lee, Eun Jung; Park, Il-Ho; Lee, Heung-Man; Kim, Kyung-Su

    2017-10-01

    Adhesion is a major complication of endoscopic sinus surgery that may lead to recurrence of chronic rhinosinusitis, necessitating revision surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of hyaluronic acid and hydroxyethyl starch (HA-HES) relative to hyaluronic acid and carboxymethylcellulose (HA-CMC) with regard to anti-adhesion effect. In this multi-center, prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled study, 77 consecutive patients who underwent bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery were enrolled between March 2014 and March 2015. HA-HES and HA-CMC were applied to randomly assigned ethmoidectomized cavities after the removal of middle meatal packing. At the 1st, 2nd and 4th weeks after surgery, the presence and grades of adhesion, edema, and infection were, respectively, examined via endoscopy by a blinded assessor. The incidence and grades of adhesion at the 2-week follow-up were significantly less in the HA-CMC group than in the HA-HES group (p < 0.05). However, with the exception of week 2, there were no significant differences in the incidence or grades of adhesion, edema, and infection between the two groups. When the primary endpoint-the presence of adhesion at the 4-week follow-up-was compared between two groups, the incidence of adhesion in HA-HES group at the 4-week follow-up was 32% and in HA-CMC was 41.3%, indicating that HA-HES was not inferior to HA-CMC in terms of anti-adhesive effect. No severe adverse reactions were noted during the study period. In conclusion, HA-HES is a safe substitutional anti-adhesion agent that has equivalent effect as HA-CMC after endoscopic sinus surgery.

  11. Music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving maternal and infant outcomes.

    PubMed

    Laopaiboon, Malinee; Lumbiganon, Pisake; Martis, Ruth; Vatanasapt, Patravoot; Somjaivong, Busaba

    2009-04-15

    Evidence on the benefits of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia to improve clinical and psychological outcomes for mothers and infants has not been established. To evaluate the effectiveness of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving clinical and psychological outcomes for mothers and infants. We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 September 2008). We included randomised controlled trials comparing music added to standard care during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia to standard care alone. Two review authors, Malinee Laopaiboon and Ruth Martis, independently assessed eligibility, risk of bias in included trials and extracted data. We analysed continuous outcomes using a mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). One trial involving 76 women who planned to have their babies delivered by caesarean section met the inclusion criteria, but data were available for only 64 women. This trial was of low quality with unclear allocation concealment and only a few main clinical outcomes reported for the women. The trial did not report any infant outcomes. It appears that music added to standard care during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia had some impact on pulse rate at the end of maternal contact with the neonate in the intra-operative period (MD -7.50 fewer beats per minute, 95% CI -14.08 to -0.92) and after completion of skin suture for the caesarean section (MD -7.37 fewer beats per minute, 95% CI -13.37 to -1.37). There was also an improvement in the birth satisfaction score (maximum possible score of 35) (MD of 3.38, 95%CI 1.59 to 5.17). Effects on other outcomes were either not significant or not reported in the one included trial. The findings indicate that music during planned caesarean section under regional anaesthesia may improve pulse rate and birth satisfaction score. However, the magnitude of these benefits is small and the

  12. Intraperitoneal delivery of platinum with in-situ crosslinkable hyaluronic acid gel for local therapy of ovarian cancer

    PubMed Central

    Cho, Eun Jung; Sun, Bo; Doh, Kyung-Oh; Wilson, Erin M.; Torregrosa-Allen, Sandra; Elzey, Bennett D.; Yeo, Yoon

    2014-01-01

    Intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy is a promising post-surgical therapy of solid carcinomas confined within the peritoneal cavity, with potential benefits in locoregional and systemic management of residual tumors. In this study, we intended to increase local retention of platinum in the peritoneal cavity over a prolonged period of time using a nanoparticle form of platinum and an in-situ crosslinkable hyaluronic acid gel. Hyaluronic acid was chosen as a carrier due to the biocompatibility and biodegradability. We confirmed a sustained release of platinum from the nanoparticles (PtNPs) and nanoparticle/gel hybrid (PtNP/gel), receptor-mediated endocytosis of PtNPs, and retention of the gel in the peritoneal cavity over 4 weeks--conditions desirable for a prolonged local delivery of platinum. However, PtNPs and PtNP/gel did not show a greater anti-tumor efficacy than CDDP solution administered at the same dose but rather caused a slight increase in tumor burdens at later time points, which suggests a potential involvement of empty carriers and degradation products in the growth of residual tumors. This study alerts that although several materials considered biocompatible and safe are used as drug carriers, they may have unwanted biological effects on the residual targets once the drug is exhausted; therefore, more attention should be paid to the selection of the drug carriers. PMID:25453960

  13. Intraperitoneal delivery of platinum with in-situ crosslinkable hyaluronic acid gel for local therapy of ovarian cancer.

    PubMed

    Cho, Eun Jung; Sun, Bo; Doh, Kyung-Oh; Wilson, Erin M; Torregrosa-Allen, Sandra; Elzey, Bennett D; Yeo, Yoon

    2015-01-01

    Intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy is a promising post-surgical therapy of solid carcinomas confined within the peritoneal cavity, with potential benefits in locoregional and systemic management of residual tumors. In this study, we intended to increase local retention of platinum in the peritoneal cavity over a prolonged period of time using a nanoparticle form of platinum and an in-situ crosslinkable hyaluronic acid gel. Hyaluronic acid was chosen as a carrier due to the biocompatibility and biodegradability. We confirmed a sustained release of platinum from the nanoparticles (PtNPs) and nanoparticle/gel hybrid (PtNP/gel), receptor-mediated endocytosis of PtNPs, and retention of the gel in the peritoneal cavity over 4 weeks: conditions desirable for a prolonged local delivery of platinum. However, PtNPs and PtNP/gel did not show a greater anti-tumor efficacy than CDDP solution administered at the same dose but rather caused a slight increase in tumor burdens at later time points, which suggests a potential involvement of empty carriers and degradation products in the growth of residual tumors. This study alerts that although several materials considered biocompatible and safe are used as drug carriers, they may have unwanted biological effects on the residual targets once the drug is exhausted; therefore, more attention should be paid to the selection of drug carriers. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. A randomized clinical trial evaluating plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF-Endoret) versus hyaluronic acid in the short-term treatment of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Sánchez, Mikel; Fiz, Nicolás; Azofra, Juan; Usabiaga, Jaime; Aduriz Recalde, Enmanuel; Garcia Gutierrez, Antonio; Albillos, Javier; Gárate, Ramón; Aguirre, Jose Javier; Padilla, Sabino; Orive, Gorka; Anitua, Eduardo

    2012-08-01

    This multicenter, double-blind clinical trial evaluated and compared the efficacy and safety of PRGF-Endoret (BTI Biotechnology Institute, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain), an autologous biological therapy for regenerative purposes, versus hyaluronic acid (HA) as a short-term treatment for knee pain from osteoarthritis. We randomly assigned 176 patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis to receive infiltrations with PRGF-Endoret or with HA (3 injections on a weekly basis). The primary outcome measure was a 50% decrease in knee pain from baseline to week 24. As secondary outcomes, we also assessed pain, stiffness, and physical function using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index; the rate of response using the criteria of the Outcome Measures for Rheumatology Committee and Osteoarthritis Research Society International Standing Committee for Clinical Trials Response Criteria Initiative (OMERACT-OARSI); and safety. The mean age of the patients was 59.8 years, and 52% were women. Compared with the rate of response to HA, the rate of response to PRGF-Endoret was 14.1 percentage points higher (95% confidence interval, 0.5 to 27.6; P = .044). Regarding the secondary outcome measures, the rate of response to PRGF-Endoret was higher in all cases, although no significant differences were reached. Adverse events were mild and evenly distributed between the groups. Plasma rich in growth factors showed superior short-term results when compared with HA in a randomized controlled trial, with a comparable safety profile, in alleviating symptoms of mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. Level I, randomized controlled multicenter trial. Copyright © 2012 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Nurse Practitioner Care Improves Renal Outcome in Patients with CKD

    PubMed Central

    van Zuilen, Arjan D.; van den Brand, Jan A.J.G.; Bots, Michiel L.; van Buren, Marjolijn; ten Dam, Marc A.G.J.; Kaasjager, Karin A.H.; Ligtenberg, Gerry; Sijpkens, Yvo W.J.; Sluiter, Henk E.; van de Ven, Peter J.G.; Vervoort, Gerald; Vleming, Louis-Jean; Blankestijn, Peter J.; Wetzels, Jack F.M.

    2014-01-01

    Treatment goals for patients with CKD are often unrealized for many reasons, but support by nurse practitioners may improve risk factor levels in these patients. Here, we analyzed renal endpoints of the Multifactorial Approach and Superior Treatment Efficacy in Renal Patients with the Aid of Nurse Practitioners (MASTERPLAN) study after extended follow-up to determine whether strict implementation of current CKD guidelines through the aid of nurse practitioners improves renal outcome. In total, 788 patients with moderate to severe CKD were randomized to receive nurse practitioner support added to physician care (intervention group) or physician care alone (control group). Median follow-up was 5.7 years. Renal outcome was a secondary endpoint of the MASTERPLAN study. We used a composite renal endpoint of death, ESRD, and 50% increase in serum creatinine. Event rates were compared with adjustment for baseline serum creatinine concentration and changes in estimated GFR were determined. During the randomized phase, there were small but significant differences between the groups in BP, proteinuria, LDL cholesterol, and use of aspirin, statins, active vitamin D, and antihypertensive medications, in favor of the intervention group. The intervention reduced the incidence of the composite renal endpoint by 20% (hazard ratio, 0.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.66 to 0.98; P=0.03). In the intervention group, the decrease in estimated GFR was 0.45 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year less than in the control group (P=0.01). In conclusion, additional support by nurse practitioners attenuated the decline of kidney function and improved renal outcome in patients with CKD. PMID:24158983

  16. Endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux with polyacrylate polyalcohol copolymer and dextranomer/hyaluronic acid in adults.

    PubMed

    Turk, Akif; Selimoglu, Ahmet; Demir, Kadir; Celik, Osman; Saglam, Erkin; Tarhan, Fatih

    2014-01-01

    Aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer and polyacrylate polyalcohol copolymer in endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux disease in adult patients with and without chronic renal failure. Thirty two patients (12 female, 20 male) with a total of 50 renal units were treated for vesicoureteral reflux. There were 26 (81%) chronic renal failure patients. The success of treatment was evaluated by voiding cystouretrography at 3rd and 12th months after subureteric injection. The persistence of reflux was considered as failure. Patients were divided into two groups according to injected material. Age, sex, grade of reflux and treatment results were recorded and evaluated. Reflux was scored as grade 1 in seven (14%), grade 2 in 16 (32%), grade 3 in 21 (42%) and grade 4 in six (12%) renal units. There was not patient with grade 5 reflux. Fourteen renal units (28%) were treated with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (group 1) and 36 renal units (72%) were treated with polyacrylate polyalcohol copolymer (group 2). The overall treatment success was achieved at 40 renal units (80%). The treatment was successful at 11 renal units (79%) in group 1 and 29 renal units (81%) in group 2 (p = 0.71). There was not statistically significant difference between two groups with patients with chronic renal failure in terms of treatment success (p = 1.00). The effectiveness of two bulking agents was similar in treatment of vesicoureteral reflux disease in adult patients and patients with chronic renal failure.

  17. Permeation enhancement via thiolation: in vitro and ex vivo evaluation of hyaluronic acid-cysteine ethyl ester.

    PubMed

    Laffleur, Flavia; Psenner, Julia; Suchaoin, Wongsakorn

    2015-07-01

    It was the aim of this study to evaluate the permeation-enhancing effect of synthesized thiolated hyaluronic acid (HA). HA, a naturally found polysaccharide, was chemically modified with l-cysteine ethyl ether (C) via amide bond formation. In vitro permeation enhancement was tested on Caco-2 cells with two compounds, sulforhodamine (SR) and fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FD4). Cytotoxicity assays as lactate dehydrogenase and thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) were performed on colon carcinoma cell line. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements were conducted. Ex vivo evaluation was accomplished on rat intestinal mucosa in order to predict the permeation enhancing effect with SR, sodium fluorescein (SF), and FD4, respectively. The MTT as well as lactate dehydrogenase revealed no toxicity over time periods of 3 and 12 h, respectively. The bioconjugate is biocompatible and safe to use. Furthermore, TEER measurements showed the integrity of tight junctions. The in vitro permeation studies on cell studies exhibit 1.28-fold enhancement for SR and 1.47-fold enhancement for FD4 with hyaluronic acid-cysteine ethyl ester (HAC) in comparison to unmodified one. The ex vivo transport studies exhibit 1.9-fold enhancement for SF, 1.31-fold enhancement for Rhodamine123, and 1.3-fold enhancement for FD4 with HAC in comparison to unmodified one, respectively. Thus, the promising results encourage further investigations and exploitation of this versatile polysaccharide. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  18. Biocompatibility of Gd-Loaded Chitosan-Hyaluronic Acid Nanogels as Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Cancer Imaging

    PubMed Central

    Gheran, Cecilia Virginia; Rigaux, Guillaume; Callewaert, Maité; Berquand, Alexandre; Chuburu, Françoise; Voicu, Sorina Nicoleta; Dinischiotu, Anca

    2018-01-01

    Although the research on nanogels incorporating Gd chelates for theranostic applications has grown exponentially in recent years, knowledge about their biocompatibility is limited. We compared the biocompatibility of Gd-loaded hyaluronic acid-chitosan-based nanogels (GdCA⊂CS-TPP/HA) with two chitosan concentrations (2.5 and 1.5 mg·mL−1 respectively) using SVEC4-10 murine lymph node endothelial cells. The sulforhodamine B method and released lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity were used as cell viability tests. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by spectrophotometric and fluorimetric methods. Nrf-2 protein expression was evaluated by Western blot analysis and genotoxicity by alkaline comet assay. After 24 h, the cells viability was not affected by all types and doses of nanogels. The increase of ROS induced a low decrease of GSH concentration and a time-dependent raise of MDA one was produced by citric GdDOTA⊂CS-TPP/HA with a chitosan concentration of 1.5 mg·mL−1, at the highest dose applied. None of the tested nanogels induced changes in Nrf-2 protein expression. A slight but significant genotoxic effect was caused only by citric GdDOTA⊂CS-TPP/HA where CS concentration was 1.5 mg·mL−1. Our results showed a better biocompatibility with lymph node endothelial cells for Gd-loaded hyaluronic acid-chitosan based nanogels with a concentration in chitosan of 2.5 mg·mL−1. PMID:29597306

  19. Improving Kindergarten Students' Writing Outcomes Using Peer-Assisted Strategies

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Puranik, Cynthia S.; Petscher, Yaacov; Al Otaiba, Stephanie; Lemons, Christopher J.

    2018-01-01

    The primary focus of this study was to determine the feasibility of teacher implementation of peer-assisted writing strategies (PAWS) in improving the writing outcomes of kindergarten children. Six classrooms were recruited, and 3 were randomly assigned to the experimental condition. Results indicated that the content, length, and formatting of…

  20. Improving Child Outcomes with Data-Based Decision Making: Graphing Data

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hojnoski, Robin L.; Gischlar, Karen L.; Missall, Kristen N.

    2009-01-01

    Child performance data collected frequently in natural settings are important for monitoring progress toward short-term and long-term goals and are an essential component of instruction designed to improve outcomes for children. Organizing child performance data into graphic displays can promote the systematic use of data in educational decision…

  1. Fabrication of a bioadhesive transdermal device from chitosan and hyaluronic acid for the controlled release of lidocaine.

    PubMed

    Anirudhan, T S; Nair, Syam S; Nair, Anoop S

    2016-11-05

    A novel efficient transdermal (TD) lidocaine (LD) delivery device based on chitosan (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA) was successfully developed in the present investigation. CS was grafted with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and butyl methacrylate (BMA) to fabricate a versatile material with improved adhesion and mechanical properties. HA was hydrophobically modified by covalently conjugating 3-(dimethylamino)-1-propylamine (DMPA) to encapsulate poorly water soluble LD and was uniformly dispersed in modified CS matrix. The prepared materials were characterized through FTIR, NMR, XRD, SEM, TEM and tensile assay. The dispersion of amine functionalized HA (AHA) on modified CS matrix offered strong matrix - filler interaction, which improved the mechanical properties and drug retention behavior of the device. In vitro skin permeation study of LD was performed with modified Franz diffusion cell using rat skin and exhibited controlled release. The influence of storage time on release profile was investigated and demonstrated that after the initial burst, LD release profile of the device after 30 and 60days storage was identical to that of a device which was not stored. In vivo skin adhesion test and skin irritation assay in human subjects, water vapor permeability and environmental fitness test was performed to judge its application in biomedical field. All results displayed that the fabricated device is a potential candidate for TD LD administration to the systemic circulation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. External inspection of compliance with standards for improved healthcare outcomes.

    PubMed

    Flodgren, Gerd; Gonçalves-Bradley, Daniela C; Pomey, Marie-Pascale

    2016-12-02

    Inspection systems are used in healthcare to promote quality improvements (i.e. to achieve changes in organisational structures or processes, healthcare provider behaviour and patient outcomes). These systems are based on the assumption that externally promoted adherence to evidence-based standards (through inspection/assessment) will result in higher quality of healthcare. However, the benefits of external inspection in terms of organisational-, provider- and patient-level outcomes are not clear. This is the first update of the original Cochrane review, published in 2011. To evaluate the effectiveness of external inspection of compliance with standards in improving healthcare organisation behaviour, healthcare professional behaviour and patient outcomes. We searched the following electronic databases for studies up to 1 June 2015: the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness, HMIC, ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. There was no language restriction and we included studies regardless of publication status. We also searched the reference lists of included studies and contacted authors of relevant papers, accreditation bodies and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), regarding any further published or unpublished work. We also searched an online database of systematic reviews (PDQ-evidence.org). We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomised trials (NRCTs), interrupted time series (ITSs) and controlled before-after studies (CBAs) evaluating the effect of external inspection against external standards on healthcare organisation change, healthcare professional behaviour or patient outcomes in hospitals, primary healthcare organisations and other community-based healthcare organisations. Two review authors independently applied eligibility criteria, extracted data and assessed the

  3. Efficacy of Temporomandibular Joint Arthrocentesis with Sodium Hyaluronate in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Prospective Randomized Control Trial.

    PubMed

    Gorrela, Harsha; Prameela, J; Srinivas, G; Reddy, B Vijay Baskar; Sudhir, Mvs; Arakeri, Gururaj

    2017-12-01

    This study was designed to investigate the efficacy of the temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis with and without injection of sodium hyaluronate (SH) in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders. A total of sixty two TMJs in 34 males and 28 females aged 20-65 years comprised the study material. The patients' complaints were limited mouth opening, TMJ pain, and joint noises during function. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups in which arthrocentesis plus intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate was performed in 1 group and only arthrocentesis was performed in the other group. Both groups contained patients with disc displacement with reduction and without reduction. Clinical evaluation of the patients was done before the procedure, immediately after the procedure, at 1 week and 1, 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Intensity of TMJ pain was assessed using visual analog scales. Maximal mouth opening and lateral jaw movements also were recorded at each follow-up visit. Both techniques increased maximal mouth opening, lateral movements, and function, while reducing TMJ pain and noise. Although patients benefitted from both techniques, arthrocentesis with injection of SH seemed to be superior to arthrocentesis alone.

  4. Improving Outcomes Following Penetrating Colon Wounds

    PubMed Central

    Miller, Preston R.; Fabian, Timothy C.; Croce, Martin A.; Magnotti, Louis J.; Elizabeth Pritchard, F.; Minard, Gayle; Stewart, Ronald M.

    2002-01-01

    . More destructive injuries were managed in the CP group (27% vs. 19%). Abscess rate was lower in the CP group (27% vs. 37%), as was suture line leak rate (7% vs. 14%). Colon related mortality in the CP group was 5% as compared with 12% in the PS group. Conclusions The clinical pathway for destructive colon wound management has improved outcomes as measured by anastomotic leak rates and colon related mortality. The data demonstrated the need for colostomy in the face of shock and comorbidities. Institution of this pathway results in colostomy for only 7% of all colon wounds. PMID:12035033

  5. Patient Web Portals to Improve Diabetes Outcomes: A Systematic Review

    PubMed Central

    Mayberry, Lindsay Satterwhite; Mulvaney, Shelagh A.; Hess, Rachel

    2011-01-01

    Patient web portals (PWPs), defined as the integration of electronic medical records and patient health records, have been related to enhanced patient outcomes. A literature review was conducted to characterize the design and evaluation of PWPs to improve health care processes and outcomes in diabetes. A summary of 26 articles revealed the positive impact PWPs have on patient outcomes, patient-provider communication, disease management, and access to and patient satisfaction with health care. Innovative and useful approaches included the evaluation of specific components of the PWPs, assessing the impact of PWPs on mediators of health behaviors, such as patient distress, identification of barriers to use, and patient willingness to pay for access. Future research should focus on relevant processes that mediate patient and provider use, impact on health care utilization, and a patient-centered approach to the design and integration of educational opportunities afforded through PWPs. PMID:20890688

  6. Patient web portals to improve diabetes outcomes: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Osborn, Chandra Y; Mayberry, Lindsay Satterwhite; Mulvaney, Shelagh A; Hess, Rachel

    2010-12-01

    Patient web portals (PWPs), defined as the integration of electronic medical records and patient health records, have been related to enhanced patient outcomes. A literature review was conducted to characterize the design and evaluation of PWPs to improve health care processes and outcomes in diabetes. A summary of 26 articles revealed the positive impact PWPs have on patient outcomes, patient-provider communication, disease management, and access to and patient satisfaction with health care. Innovative and useful approaches included the evaluation of specific components of the PWPs, assessing the impact of PWPs on mediators of health behaviors, such as patient distress, identification of barriers to use, and patient willingness to pay for access. Future research should focus on relevant processes that mediate patient and provider use, impact on health care utilization, and a patient-centered approach to the design and integration of educational opportunities afforded through PWPs.

  7. Value Driven Outcomes (VDO): a pragmatic, modular, and extensible software framework for understanding and improving health care costs and outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Kawamoto, Kensaku; Martin, Cary J; Williams, Kip; Tu, Ming-Chieh; Park, Charlton G; Hunter, Cheri; Staes, Catherine J; Bray, Bruce E; Deshmukh, Vikrant G; Holbrook, Reid A; Morris, Scott J; Fedderson, Matthew B; Sletta, Amy; Turnbull, James; Mulvihill, Sean J; Crabtree, Gordon L; Entwistle, David E; McKenna, Quinn L; Strong, Michael B; Pendleton, Robert C; Lee, Vivian S

    2015-01-01

    Objective To develop expeditiously a pragmatic, modular, and extensible software framework for understanding and improving healthcare value (costs relative to outcomes). Materials and methods In 2012, a multidisciplinary team was assembled by the leadership of the University of Utah Health Sciences Center and charged with rapidly developing a pragmatic and actionable analytics framework for understanding and enhancing healthcare value. Based on an analysis of relevant prior work, a value analytics framework known as Value Driven Outcomes (VDO) was developed using an agile methodology. Evaluation consisted of measurement against project objectives, including implementation timeliness, system performance, completeness, accuracy, extensibility, adoption, satisfaction, and the ability to support value improvement. Results A modular, extensible framework was developed to allocate clinical care costs to individual patient encounters. For example, labor costs in a hospital unit are allocated to patients based on the hours they spent in the unit; actual medication acquisition costs are allocated to patients based on utilization; and radiology costs are allocated based on the minutes required for study performance. Relevant process and outcome measures are also available. A visualization layer facilitates the identification of value improvement opportunities, such as high-volume, high-cost case types with high variability in costs across providers. Initial implementation was completed within 6 months, and all project objectives were fulfilled. The framework has been improved iteratively and is now a foundational tool for delivering high-value care. Conclusions The framework described can be expeditiously implemented to provide a pragmatic, modular, and extensible approach to understanding and improving healthcare value. PMID:25324556

  8. Improved outcomes in the non-operative management of liver injuries

    PubMed Central

    Saltzherr, Teun Peter; van der Vlies, Cees H; van Lienden, Krijn P; Beenen, Ludo F M; Ponsen, Kees Jan; van Gulik, Thomas M; Goslings, J Carel

    2011-01-01

    Objectives Non-operative management has become the treatment of choice in the majority of liver injuries. The aim of this study was to assess the changes in primary treatment and outcomes in a single Dutch Level 1 trauma centre with wide experience in angio-embolisation (AE). Methods The prospective trauma registry was retrospectively analysed for 7-year periods before (Period 1) and after (Period 2) the introduction of AE. The primary outcome was the failure rate of primary treatment defined as liver injury-related death or re-bleeding requiring radiologic or operative (re)interventions. Secondary outcomes were liver injury-related intra-abdominal complications. Results Despite an increase in high-grade liver injuries, the incidence of primary non-operative management more than doubled over the two periods, from 33% (20 of 61 cases) in Period 1 to 72% (84 of 116 cases) in Period 2 (P < 0.001). The failure rate of primary treatment in Period 1 was 18% (11/61), compared with 11% (13/116) in Period 2 (P = 0.21). Complication rates were 23% (14/61) and 16% (18/116) in Periods 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.22). Liver-related mortality rates were 10% (6/61) and 3% (4/116) in Periods 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.095). The increase in the frequency of non-operative management was even higher in high-grade injuries, in which outcomes were improved. In high-grade injuries in Periods 1 and 2, failure rates decreased from 45% (9/20) to 20% (11/55) (P = 0.041), liver-related mortality decreased from 30% (6/20) to 7% (4/55) (P = 0.019) and complication rates fell from 60% (12/20) to 27% (15/55) (P = 0.014). Liver infarction or necrosis and abscess formation seemed to occur more frequently with AE. Conclusions Overall, liver-related mortality, treatment failure and complication rates remained constant despite an increase in non-operative management. However, in high-grade injuries outcomes improved after the introduction of AE. PMID:21492335

  9. Information Technology-Based Interventions to Improve Drug-Drug Interaction Outcomes: A Systematic Review on Features and Effects.

    PubMed

    Nabovati, Ehsan; Vakili-Arki, Hasan; Taherzadeh, Zhila; Saberi, Mohammad Reza; Medlock, Stephanie; Abu-Hanna, Ameen; Eslami, Saeid

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this systematic review was to identify features and effects of information technology (IT)-based interventions on outcomes related to drug-drug interactions (DDI outcomes). A literature search was conducted in Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for published English-language studies. Studies were included if a main outcome was related to DDIs, the intervention involved an IT-based system, and the study design was experimental or observational with controls. Study characteristics, including features and effects of IT-based interventions, were extracted. Nineteen studies comprising five randomized controlled trials (RCT), five non-randomized controlled trials (NRCT) and nine observational studies with controls (OWC) were included. Sixty-four percent of prescriber-directed interventions, and all non-prescriber interventions, were effective. Each of the following characteristics corresponded to groups of studies of which a majority were effective: automatic provision of recommendations within the providers' workflow, intervention at the time of decision-making, integration into other systems, and requiring the reason for not following the recommendations. Only two studies measured clinical outcomes: an RCT that showed no significant improvement and an OWC that showed improvement, but did not statistically assess the effect. Most studies that measured surrogate outcomes (e.g. potential DDIs) and other outcomes (e.g. adherence to alerts) showed improvements. IT-based interventions improve surrogate clinical outcomes and adherence to DDI alerts. However, there is lack of robust evidence about their effectiveness on clinical outcomes. It is recommended that researchers consider the identified features of effective interventions in the design of interventions and evaluate the effectiveness on DDI outcomes, particularly clinical outcomes.

  10. Quality and safety in pediatric anesthesia: how can guidelines, checklists, and initiatives improve the outcome?

    PubMed

    Hagerman, Nancy S; Varughese, Anna M; Kurth, C Dean

    2014-06-01

    Cognitive aids are tangible or intangible instruments that guide users in decision-making and in the completion of a complex series of tasks. Common examples include mnemonics, checklists, and algorithms. Cognitive aids constitute very effective approaches to achieve well tolerated, high quality healthcare because they promote highly reliable processes that reduce the likelihood of failure. This review describes recent advances in quality improvement for pediatric anesthesiology with emphasis on application of cognitive aids to impact patient safety and outcomes. Quality improvement encourages the examination of systems to create stable processes and ultimately high-value care. Quality improvement initiatives in pediatric anesthesiology have been shown to improve outcomes and the delivery of efficient and effective care at many institutions. The use of checklists, in particular, improves adherence to evidence-based care in crisis situations, decreases catheter-associated bloodstream infections, reduces blood product utilization, and improves communication during the patient handoff process. Use of this simple tool has been associated with decreased morbidity, fewer medical errors, improved provider satisfaction, and decreased mortality in nonanesthesia disciplines as well. Successful quality improvement initiatives utilize cognitive aids such as checklists and have been shown to optimize pediatric patient experience and anesthesia outcomes and reduce perioperative complications.

  11. Improving outcomes using German Inpatient Quality Indicators in conjunction with peer review procedures.

    PubMed

    Mansky, Thomas; Völzke, Tatjana; Nimptsch, Ulrike

    2015-01-01

    Some hospital comparisons seem to generate confusion because different methods of outcome comparisons lead to different results in hospital rankings. This article questions the concept of overall comparisons of hospitals, which are multiproduct enterprises and may have specialties that provide good results in some areas despite having worse outcomes in others. Therefore, the authors argue for a disease specific view of outcome measurement. The concept of the German Inpatient Quality Indicators is explained. These indicators cover volume, mortality, and other information by a disease specific approach, which includes information for potential patients as well as specific feedback to the physicians responsible for the respective specialty. This article focuses on the feedback to the hospitals and explains how these indicators can be used for improvement in conjunction with a peer review process. The indicators provide information to the hospitals regarding their relative position because German reference values are available for all indicators. Thus, the indicators can serve as a trigger instrument for identifying possible quality problems. Based on these indications, peer review can be used to analyze the treatment processes and to eventually verify weaknesses and define actions for improvement. The first studies indicate that the use of this approach within hospital quality management can largely improve hospital outcomes in hospitals with subpar results compared to the German average. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

  12. Kenya's ICT Policy in Practice: The Effectiveness of Tablets and E-Readers in Improving Student Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Piper, Benjamin; Jepkemei, Evelyn; Kwayumba, Dunston; Kibukho, Kennedy

    2015-01-01

    Kenya is investing in information and communication technology (ICT) to improve children's learning outcomes. However, the literature on ICT is pessimistic about the ability of ICT alone to improve outcomes, and few ICT programs have created the instructional change necessary to increase learning. The Primary Math and Reading (PRIMR) Initiative…

  13. An e-learning course in medical immunology: does it improve learning outcome?

    PubMed

    Boye, Sondre; Moen, Torolf; Vik, Torstein

    2012-01-01

    E-learning is used by most medical students almost daily and several studies have shown e-learning to improve learning outcome in small-scale interventions. However, few studies have explored the effects of e-learning in immunology. To study the effect of an e-learning package in immunology on learning outcomes in a written integrated examination and to examine student satisfaction with the e-learning package. All second-year students at a Norwegian medical school were offered an animated e-learning package in basic immunology as a supplement to the regular teaching. Each student's log-on-time was recorded and linked with the student's score on multiple choice questions included in an integrated end-of-the-year written examination. Student satisfaction was assessed through a questionnaire. The intermediate-range students (interquartile range) on average scored 3.6% better on the immunology part of the examination per hour they had used the e-learning package (p = 0.0046) and log-on-time explained 17% of the variance in immunology score. The best and the less skilled students' examination outcomes were not affected by the e-learning. The e-learning was well appreciated among the students. Use of an e-learning package in immunology in addition to regular teaching improved learning outcomes for intermediate-range students.

  14. Effect of intra-articular injection of intermediate-weight hyaluronic acid on hip and knee cartilage: in-vivo evaluation using T2 mapping.

    PubMed

    Ferrero, Giulio; Sconfienza, Luca Maria; Fiz, Francesco; Fabbro, Emanuele; Corazza, Angelo; Dettore, Daniele; Orlandi, Davide; Castellazzo, Carlo; Tornago, Stefano; Serafini, Giovanni

    2018-06-01

    We used T2 mapping to quantify the effect of intra-articular hyaluronic acid administration (IAHAA) on cartilage with correlation to clinical symptoms. One hundred two patients with clinical and MRI diagnosis of hip or knee grade I-III chondropathy were prospectively included. All patients received a standard MRI examination of the affected hip/knee (one joint/patient) and T2-mapping multiecho sequence for cartilage evaluation. T2 values of all slices were averaged and used for analysis. One month after MR evaluation 72 patients (38 males; mean age 51±10 years) underwent IAHAA. As a control group, 30 subjects (15 males; 51 ± 9 years) were not treated. MR and WOMAC evaluation was performed at baseline and after 3, 9, and 15 months in all patients. T2 mapping in hyaluronic acid (HA) patients showed a significant increase in T2 relaxation times from baseline to the first time point after therapy in knees (40.7 ± 9.8 ms vs. 45.8 ± 8.6 ms) and hips (40.9 ± 9.7 ms; 45.9 ± 9.5 ms) (p < 0.001). At the 9- and 15-month evaluations, T2 relaxation dropped to values similar to the baseline ones (p < 0.001 vs. 3 month). The correlation between T2 increase and pain reduction after IAHAA was statistically significant (r = 0.54, p < 0.01) in patients with grade III chondropathy. T2 mapping can be used to evaluate the effect over time of IAHAA in patients with hip and knee chondropathy. • T2 relaxation times change over time after hyaluronic acid intra-articular administration • T2 relaxation times of the medial femoral condyle correlate with WOMAC variation • T2 relaxation times are different between Outerbridge I and II-III.

  15. Improvement in Outcomes of Clinical Islet Transplantation: 1999–2010

    PubMed Central

    Barton, Franca B.; Rickels, Michael R.; Alejandro, Rodolfo; Hering, Bernhard J.; Wease, Stephen; Naziruddin, Bashoo; Oberholzer, Jose; Odorico, Jon S.; Garfinkel, Marc R.; Levy, Marlon; Pattou, Francois; Berney, Thierry; Secchi, Antonio; Messinger, Shari; Senior, Peter A.; Maffi, Paola; Posselt, Andrew; Stock, Peter G.; Kaufman, Dixon B.; Luo, Xunrong; Kandeel, Fouad; Cagliero, Enrico; Turgeon, Nicole A.; Witkowski, Piotr; Naji, Ali; O’Connell, Philip J.; Greenbaum, Carla; Kudva, Yogish C.; Brayman, Kenneth L.; Aull, Meredith J.; Larsen, Christian; Kay, Tom W.H.; Fernandez, Luis A.; Vantyghem, Marie-Christine; Bellin, Melena; Shapiro, A.M. James

    2012-01-01

    OBJECTIVE To describe trends of primary efficacy and safety outcomes of islet transplantation in type 1 diabetes recipients with severe hypoglycemia from the Collaborative Islet Transplant Registry (CITR) from 1999 to 2010. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 677 islet transplant-alone or islet-after-kidney recipients with type 1 diabetes in the CITR were analyzed for five primary efficacy outcomes and overall safety to identify any differences by early (1999–2002), mid (2003–2006), or recent (2007–2010) transplant era based on annual follow-up to 5 years. RESULTS Insulin independence at 3 years after transplant improved from 27% in the early era (1999–2002, n = 214) to 37% in the mid (2003–2006, n = 255) and to 44% in the most recent era (2007–2010, n = 208; P = 0.006 for years-by-era; P = 0.01 for era alone). C-peptide ≥0.3 ng/mL, indicative of islet graft function, was retained longer in the most recent era (P < 0.001). Reduction of HbA1c and resolution of severe hypoglycemia exhibited enduring long-term effects. Fasting blood glucose stabilization also showed improvements in the most recent era. There were also modest reductions in the occurrence of adverse events. The islet reinfusion rate was lower: 48% by 1 year in 2007–2010 vs. 60–65% in 1999–2006 (P < 0.01). Recipients that ever achieved insulin-independence experienced longer duration of islet graft function (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The CITR shows improvement in primary efficacy and safety outcomes of islet transplantation in recipients who received transplants in 2007–2010 compared with those in 1999–2006, with fewer islet infusions and adverse events per recipient. PMID:22723582

  16. An In Vivo Study of Composite Microgels Based on Hyaluronic Acid and Gelatin for the Reconstruction of Surgically Injured Rat Vocal Folds

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Coppoolse, Jiska M. S.; Van Kooten, T. G.; Heris, Hossein K.; Mongeau, Luc; Li, Nicole Y. K.; Thibeault, Susan L.; Pitaro, Jacob; Akinpelu, Olubunm; Daniel, Sam J.

    2014-01-01

    Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate local injection with a hierarchically microstructured hyaluronic acid-gelatin (HA-Ge) hydrogel for the treatment of acute vocal fold injury using a rat model. Method: Vocal fold stripping was performed unilaterally in 108 Sprague-Dawley rats. A volume of 25 µl saline (placebo controls),…

  17. Looking beyond historical patient outcomes to improve clinical models.

    PubMed

    Chia, Chih-Chun; Rubinfeld, Ilan; Scirica, Benjamin M; McMillan, Sean; Gurm, Hitinder S; Syed, Zeeshan

    2012-04-25

    Conventional algorithms for modeling clinical events focus on characterizing the differences between patients with varying outcomes in historical data sets used for the model derivation. For many clinical conditions with low prevalence and where small data sets are available, this approach to developing models is challenging due to the limited number of positive (that is, event) examples available for model training. Here, we investigate how the approach of developing clinical models might be improved across three distinct patient populations (patients with acute coronary syndrome enrolled in the DISPERSE2-TIMI33 and MERLIN-TIMI36 trials, patients undergoing inpatient surgery in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry, and patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention in the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Cardiovascular Consortium registry). For each of these cases, we supplement an incomplete characterization of patient outcomes in the derivation data set (uncensored view of the data) with an additional characterization of the extent to which patients differ from the statistical support of their clinical characteristics (censored view of the data). Our approach exploits the same training data within the derivation cohort in multiple ways to improve the accuracy of prediction. We position this approach within the context of traditional supervised (2-class) and unsupervised (1-class) learning methods and present a 1.5-class approach for clinical decision-making. We describe a 1.5-class support vector machine (SVM) classification algorithm that implements this approach, and report on its performance relative to logistic regression and 2-class SVM classification with cost-sensitive weighting and oversampling. The 1.5-class SVM algorithm improved prediction accuracy relative to other approaches and may have value in predicting clinical events both at the bedside and for risk-adjusted quality of care assessment.

  18. Using Cross-Cultural Dimensions Exercises to Improve and Measure Learning Outcomes in International Business Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zainuba, Mohamed; Rahal, Ahmad

    2012-01-01

    This article proposes an approach for using cross-cultural dimensions exercises to improve and measure learning outcomes in international business courses. The following key issues are highlighted: (a) what are the targeted learning outcomes to be assessed, (b) how to measure the accomplishment of these learning outcomes, (c) the input measures…

  19. Exercise Preconditioning Improves Traumatic Brain Injury Outcomes

    PubMed Central

    Taylor, Jordan M.; Montgomery, Mitchell H.; Gregory, Eugene J.; Berman, Nancy E.J.

    2015-01-01

    Purpose To determine whether 6 weeks of exercise performed prior to traumatic brain injury (TBI) could improve post-TBI behavioral outcomes in mice, and if exercise increases neuroprotective molecules (vascular endothelial growth factor-A [VEGF-A], erythropoietin [EPO], and heme oxygenase-1 [HO-1]) in brain regions responsible for movement (sensorimotor cortex) and memory (hippocampus). Methods 120 mice were randomly assigned to one of four groups: 1) no exercise + no TBI (NOEX-NOTBI [n=30]), 2) no exercise + TBI (NOEX-TBI [n=30]), 3) exercise + no TBI (EX-NOTBI [n=30]), and 4) exercise + TBI (EX-TBI [n=30]). The gridwalk task and radial arm water maze were used to evaluate sensorimotor and cognitive function, respectively. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining were performed to investigate VEGF-A, EPO, and HO-1 mRNA and protein expression in the right cerebral cortex and ipsilateral hippocampus. Results EX-TBI mice displayed reduced post-TBI sensorimotor and cognitive deficits when compared to NOEX-TBI mice. EX-NOTBI and EX-TBI mice showed elevated VEGF-A and EPO mRNA in the cortex and hippocampus, and increased VEGF-A and EPO staining of sensorimotor cortex neurons 1 day post-TBI and/or post-exercise. EX-TBI mice also exhibited increased VEGF-A staining of hippocampal neurons 1 day post-TBI/post-exercise. NOEX-TBI mice demonstrated increased HO-1 mRNA in the cortex (3 days post-TBI) and hippocampus (3 and 7 days post-TBI), but HO-1 was not increased in mice that exercised. Conclusions Improved TBI outcomes following exercise preconditioning are associated with increased expression of specific neuroprotective genes and proteins (VEGF-A and EPO, but not HO-1) in the brain. PMID:26165153

  20. Exercise preconditioning improves traumatic brain injury outcomes.

    PubMed

    Taylor, Jordan M; Montgomery, Mitchell H; Gregory, Eugene J; Berman, Nancy E J

    2015-10-05

    To determine whether 6 weeks of exercise performed prior to traumatic brain injury (TBI) could improve post-TBI behavioral outcomes in mice, and if exercise increases neuroprotective molecules (vascular endothelial growth factor-A [VEGF-A], erythropoietin [EPO], and heme oxygenase-1 [HO-1]) in brain regions responsible for movement (sensorimotor cortex) and memory (hippocampus). 120 mice were randomly assigned to one of four groups: (1) no exercise+no TBI (NOEX-NOTBI [n=30]), (2) no exercise+TBI (NOEX-TBI [n=30]), (3) exercise+no TBI (EX-NOTBI [n=30]), and (4) exercise+TBI (EX-TBI [n=30]). The gridwalk task and radial arm water maze were used to evaluate sensorimotor and cognitive function, respectively. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining were performed to investigate VEGF-A, EPO, and HO-1 mRNA and protein expression in the right cerebral cortex and ipsilateral hippocampus. EX-TBI mice displayed reduced post-TBI sensorimotor and cognitive deficits when compared to NOEX-TBI mice. EX-NOTBI and EX-TBI mice showed elevated VEGF-A and EPO mRNA in the cortex and hippocampus, and increased VEGF-A and EPO staining of sensorimotor cortex neurons 1 day post-TBI and/or post-exercise. EX-TBI mice also exhibited increased VEGF-A staining of hippocampal neurons 1 day post-TBI/post-exercise. NOEX-TBI mice demonstrated increased HO-1 mRNA in the cortex (3 days post-TBI) and hippocampus (3 and 7 days post-TBI), but HO-1 was not increased in mice that exercised. Improved TBI outcomes following exercise preconditioning are associated with increased expression of specific neuroprotective genes and proteins (VEGF-A and EPO, but not HO-1) in the brain. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Feasibility study of a family-focused intervention to improve outcomes for children with FASD.

    PubMed

    Reid, Natasha; Dawe, Sharon; Harnett, Paul; Shelton, Doug; Hutton, Lauren; O'Callaghan, Frances

    2017-08-01

    Growing evidence shows that children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) can benefit from interventions, and specifically interventions focused on improving self-regulation. However, novel ways of improving outcomes for children with FASD need further investigation so that programs target not only the individual child but also the family context, which includes the parent-child relationship. The current study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of an adapted version of the Parents under Pressure (PuP) program that addresses self-regulatory processes, through improving the parent-child relationship and the use of mindfulness-based strategies for both children and parents. This was a mixed methods study. Feasibility was examined by evaluating recruitment, data collection/outcome measures, and intervention procedures. The study used a phenomenological approach to obtain qualitative information from caregivers and a single-case experimental design to evaluate the preliminary participant responses to the intervention. Two out of three families completed treatment. The recruitment and intervention procedures were found to be suitable for and acceptable to the families involved. Some concerns were identified regarding the outcome measures that would need to be addressed in future research. Quantitative and qualitative outcomes were positive. The results provide preliminary support for the feasibility of an adapted version of the PuP program. Thus, offering a potential multi-component option, that aims to improve self-regulatory skills for children with FASD, through focusing on improving the parent-child relationship and incorporating mindfulness-based techniques for both parents and children. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Chondrogenically primed tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated in riboflavin-induced photocrosslinking collagen-hyaluronic acid hydrogel for meniscus tissue repairs.

    PubMed

    Koh, Rachel H; Jin, Yinji; Kang, Byung-Jae; Hwang, Nathaniel S

    2017-04-15

    Current meniscus tissue repairing strategies involve partial or total meniscectomy, followed by allograft transplantation or synthetic material implantation. However, allografts and synthetic implants have major drawbacks such as the limited supply of grafts and lack of integration into host tissue, respectively. In this study, we investigated the effects of conditioned medium (CM) from meniscal fibrochondrocytes and TGF-β3 on tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (T-MSCs) for meniscus tissue engineering. CM-expanded T-MSCs were encapsulated in riboflavin-induced photocrosslinked collagen-hyaluronic acid (COL-RF-HA) hydrogels and cultured in chondrogenic medium containing TGF-β3. In vitro results indicate that CM-expanded cells followed by TGF-β3 exposure stimulated the expression of fibrocartilage-related genes (COL2, SOX9, ACAN, COL1) and production of extracellular matrix components. Histological assessment of in vitro and subcutaneously implanted in vivo constructs demonstrated that CM-expanded cells followed by TGF-β3 exposure resulted in highest cell proliferation, GAG accumulation, and collagen deposition. Furthermore, when implanted into meniscus defect model, CM treatment amplified the potential of TGF-β3 and induced complete regeneration. Conditioned medium derived from chondrocytes have been reported to effectively prime mesenchymal stem cells toward chondrogenic lineage. Type I collagen is the main component of meniscus extracellular matrix and hyaluronic acid is known to promote meniscus regeneration. In this manuscript, we investigated the effects of conditioned medium (CM) and transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3) on tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (T-MSCs) encapsulated in riboflavin-induced photocrosslinked collagen-hyaluronic acid (COL-RF-HA) hydrogel. We employed a novel source of conditioned medium, derived from meniscal fibrochondrocytes. Our in vitro and in vivo results collectively illustrate that CM-expanded cells followed by

  3. Goal specificity: a proxy measure for improvements in environmental outcomes in collaborative governance.

    PubMed

    Biddle, Jennifer C; Koontz, Tomas M

    2014-12-01

    Collaborative governance critics continually call for evidence to support its prevalent use. As is often the case in environmental policy, environmental outcomes occur at a rate incompatible with political agendas. In addition, a multitude of possibly confounding variables makes it difficult to correlate collaborative governance processes with environmental outcomes. The findings of this study offer empirical evidence that collaborative processes have a measurable, beneficial effect on environmental outcomes. Through the use of a unique paired-waterbody design, our dataset reduced the potential for confounding variables to impact our environmental outcome measurements. The results of a path analysis indicate that the output of setting specific pollutant reduction goals is significantly related to watershed partnerships' level of attainment of their environmental improvement goals. The action of setting specific goals (e.g. percentage of load reductions in pollutant levels) is fostered by sustained participation from partnership members throughout the lifecycle of the collaborative. In addition, this study demonstrates the utility of logic modeling for environmental planning and management, and suggests that the process of setting specific pollutant reduction goals is a useful proxy measure for reporting progress towards improvements in environmental outcomes when long-term environmental data are not available. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Root Resorption: Simplifying Diagnosis and Improving Outcomes.

    PubMed

    Darcey, James; Qualtrough, Alison

    2016-05-01

    Root resorption is a condition resulting in the progressive loss of dental hard tissue. It may occur both within the root and upon the external aspect of the root. Diagnosis can be difficult and management challenging. Understanding the pathology is critical to understanding why and when this disease occurs and what the best management techniques involve. With such knowledge practitioners can confidently diagnose resorption, discuss prognoses and management strategies with the patient and either refer or begin treatment. Early intervention is paramount in improving outcomes. As such, if practitioners choose to refer patients they must be aware of what can be done immediately to mitigate risks until consultation and specialist treatment begins.

  5. Ultrasound-guided subacromial injections of sodium hyaluronate for the management of rotator cuff tendinopathy: a prospective comparative study with rehabilitation therapy.

    PubMed

    Merolla, G; Bianchi, P; Porcellini, G

    2013-06-01

    .05), and week 12 (p < 0.05). A non-statistically significant increase in clinical scores was found at week 24 (p > 0.05). A significant improvement of CS and OSS we found in the Physio group at week 2 (p < 0.05), but not at weeks 4, 12, and 24 (p > 0.05). Subacromial HA injections could be an effective and safe alternative treatment for patients suffering from RC tendinopathy. We believe that the results of this study are encouraging but not lasting and we might suppose that a series of three to four subacromial sodium hyaluronate injections could provide good mid- and long-term clinical benefits.

  6. Hyaluronic acid injections protect patellar tendon from detraining-associated damage.

    PubMed

    Frizziero, Antonio; Salamanna, Francesca; Giavaresi, Gianluca; Ferrari, Andrea; Martini, Lucia; Marini, Marina; Veicsteinas, Arsenio; Maffulli, Nicola; Masiero, Stefano; Fini, Milena

    2015-09-01

    Having previously demonstrated that detraining affects patellar tendon (PT) proteoglycan content and collagen fiber organization, we undertook the present study with two aims: to improve knowledge on the adaptation of PT and its enthesis to detraining from a histological and histomorphometric point of view, and to investigate the hypothesis that repeated peri-patellar injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) on detrained PT may reduce and limit detrained associated-damage. Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups: Untrained (n=6), Trained (n=6) (10 wks-treadmill) and Detrained (n=12). In the detrained rats, the left tendon was untreated while the right tendon received repeated peri-patellar injections of either HA or saline (NaCl). Structure and morphology of PTs (modified Movin score, tear density, collagen type I and III) and enthesis (cell morphology, chondrocyte cluster formation, tidemark integrity, matrix staining and vascularization) were evaluated. The left PT and enthesis of the Detrained groups showed altered structure and morphology with the highest Movin score values, the highest percentage of collagen III and the lowest of collagen I; the lowest score values were observed in the Trained and Detrained-HA groups. Detrained-NaCl PTs showed the highest collagen III and the lowest collagen I values with respect to Detrained-HA PTs. This study strengthens previously published data showing the alteration in tendon and enthesis morphology due to discontinuation of training, and provides new data showing that treatment with HA is effective in the maintenance of the structural properties of PT and enthesis in Detrained rats. Such beneficial effects could play a significant role in the management of conservative and rehabilitation strategies in athletes that change type, intensity and duration of training.

  7. Systematic clinical evidence review of NASHA (Durolane hyaluronic acid) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

    PubMed Central

    Leighton, Ross; Fitzpatrick, Jane; Smith, Helen; Crandall, Daniela; Flannery, Carl R; Conrozier, Thierry

    2018-01-01

    Background Pain and limitations in joint mobility associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA) are clinically challenging to manage, and advanced progression of disease can often lead to total knee arthroplasty. Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA), also referred to as viscosupplementation, is a non-surgical treatment approach for OA, the effectiveness of which may depend on the HA composition, and the length of time over which it resides in the joint. One of the available options for such therapies includes NASHA (Durolane HA), a non-animal, biofermentation-derived product, which is manufactured using a process that stabilizes the HA molecules to slow down their rate of degradation and produce a unique formulation with a terminal half-life of ~1 month. The objectives of the current review were to assess, in patients with OA of the knee, the efficacy and safety of intra-articular treatment with NASHA relative to control (saline) injections, other HA products, and other injectables (corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells). Methods This systematic evidence review examines patient outcomes following NASHA treatment as described in published data from studies conducted in subjects with knee OA. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses-compliant literature search strategy yielded 11 eligible clinical studies with a variety of comparator arms. Outcomes assessed at various time points following intra-articular treatment included measures of pain, function, quality of life, and incidence of treatment-related adverse events (AEs). Results The available evidence reported for the clinical studies assessed demonstrates sustained and effective relief of knee OA symptoms following a single injection of NASHA. In addition, an excellent biocompatibility profile is observed for NASHA as an intra-articular therapy for OA, as reflected by the low rate of AEs associated with treatment. Conclusion Treatment with NASHA is an

  8. Evaluation of the effects of hyaluronic acid-carboxymethyl cellulose barrier on ovarian tumor progression

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Hyaluronic acid is a prognostic factor in ovarian cancers. It is also a component of Hyaluronic Acid-Carboxymethyl Cellulose (HA-CMC) barrier, an anti-adhesion membrane widely used during abdominal surgeries in particular for ovarian carcinosis. 70% of patients who undergo ovarian surgery will relapse due to the persistence of cancer cells. This study’s objective was to determine the oncological risk from use of this material, in the presence of residual disease, despite the benefit gained by it decreasing post-surgical adhesions in order to provide an unambiguous assessment of its appropriateness for use in ovarian surgical management. Methods We assessed the effects of HA-CMC barrier on the in vitro proliferation of human ovarian tumor cell lines (OVCAR-3, IGROV-1 and SKOV-3). We next evaluated, in vivo in nude mice, the capacity of this biomaterial to regulate the tumor progression of subcutaneous and intraperitoneal models of ovarian tumor xenografts. Results We showed that HA-CMC barrier does not increase in vitro proliferation of ovarian cancer cell lines compared to control. In vivo, HA-CMC barrier presence with subcutaneous xenografts induced neither an increase in tumor volume nor cell proliferation (Ki67 and mitotic index). With the exception of an increased murine carcinosis score in peritoneum, the presence of HA-CMC barrier with intraperitoneal xenografts modified neither macro nor microscopic tumor growth. Finally, protein analysis of survival (Akt), proliferation (ERK) and adhesion (FAK) pathways highlighted no activation on the xenografts imputable to HA-CMC barrier. Conclusions For the most part, our results support the lack of tumor progression activation due to HA-CMC barrier. We conclude that the benefits gained from using HA-CMC barrier membrane during ovarian cancer surgeries seem to outweigh the potential oncological risks. PMID:24739440

  9. Hyaluronic Acid Decreases Lipid Synthesis in Sebaceous Glands.

    PubMed

    Jung, Yu Ra; Hwang, Chul; Ha, Jeong-Min; Choi, Dae-Kyoung; Sohn, Kyung-Cheol; Lee, Young; Seo, Young-Joon; Lee, Young-Ho; Kim, Chang-Deok; Lee, Jeung-Hoon; Im, Myung

    2017-06-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the major glycosaminoglycan in the extracellular matrix and has been implicated in several functions in skin cells. However, evidence is lacking regarding the HA signaling in sebaceous glands, and its potential role needs to be clarified. We investigated the role of HA in lipid production in sebaceous glands in an experimental study of human sebocytes followed by a clinical study. We first examined the effects of HA on sebaceous glands in hamsters and intradermal injection of HA into hamster auricles decreased both the size of sebaceous glands and the level of lipid production. We demonstrated that human skin sebaceous glands in vivo and sebocytes in vitro express CD44 (HA binding receptor) and that HA downregulates lipid synthesis in a dose-dependent manner. To evaluate the clinical relevance of HA in human skin, 20 oily participants were included in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, split-face study, and the HA-treated side showed a significant decrease in sebum production. The results of this study indicate that HA plays a functional role in human sebaceous gland biology and HA signaling is an effective candidate in the management of disorders in which sebum production is increased. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Parental Leave Policy as a Strategy to Improve Outcomes among Premature Infants.

    PubMed

    Greenfield, Jennifer C; Klawetter, Susanne

    2016-02-01

    Although gains have been made in premature birth rates among racial and ethnic minority and low socioeconomic status populations, tremendous disparities still exist in both prematurity rates and health outcomes for preterm infants. Parental involvement is known to improve health outcomes for preterm babies. However, a gap in evidence exists around whether parental involvement can help ameliorate the disparities in both short- and long-term out-comes for their preterm children. Families more likely to experience preterm birth are also less likely to have access to paid leave and thus experience significant systemic barriers to involvement, especially when their newborns are hospitalized. This article describes the research gap in this area and explores pathways by which social workers may ameliorate disparities in preterm birth outcomes through practice, policy, and research.

  11. Evaluating new technology to improve patient outcomes: a quality improvement approach.

    PubMed

    McMahon, Dorthea D

    2002-01-01

    The nurses in the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) program at the University of Washington Medical Center perform ongoing data tracking to measure team and patient outcomes. Quality improvement initiatives have included the transition to microintroducer technology and ultrasound-guided placement. Used together, this technology has allowed the PICC team to increase their bedside insertion success rate to 91%. The group has also changed PICC securement methods, and use of the Statlock anchoring device has reduced the incidence of catheter migration from 6% to 1.5% of all catheter lines placed. Catheter durability also was assessed. The Pressure Activated Safety Valve PICC was compared to the Groshong PICC and the rate of catheter repair and exchange due to breakage has been reduced from 11% to 1%.

  12. Spiritual Awakening Predicts Improved Drinking Outcomes in a Polish Treatment Sample

    PubMed Central

    Strobbe, Stephen; Cranford, James A.; Wojnar, Marcin; Brower, Kirk J.

    2014-01-01

    Purpose This study examined concurrent and longitudinal associations between two dimensions of affiliation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)—attendance and spiritual awakening—and drinking outcomes among adult patients who were in treatment for alcohol dependence in Warsaw, Poland. In a study conducted at four addiction treatment centers, male and female patients (n = 118) with a DSM-IV diagnosis of alcohol dependence were assessed at baseline (Time 1 or T1), one month (T2), and 6 to 12 months post-baseline (T3) for AA meeting attendance, various aspects of AA affiliation, and alcohol use. AA meeting attendance and alcohol consumption were measured using the Timeline Followback (TLFB) interview. Self-report of having had a spiritual awakening was measured using a modified version of the Alcoholics Anonymous Involvement (AAI) scale. Results There were no cross-sectional or longitudinal associations between AA meeting attendance and improved drinking outcomes. In contrast, self-report of a spiritual awakening between T2 and T3 was significantly associated with abstinence (OR = 2.4, p < .05) and the absence of any heavy drinking (OR = 3.0, p < .05) at T3, even when demographic and clinical characteristics were statistically controlled. Conclusions Self-reports of spiritual awakening predicted improved drinking outcomes in a Polish treatment sample. PMID:24335767

  13. Value Driven Outcomes (VDO): a pragmatic, modular, and extensible software framework for understanding and improving health care costs and outcomes.

    PubMed

    Kawamoto, Kensaku; Martin, Cary J; Williams, Kip; Tu, Ming-Chieh; Park, Charlton G; Hunter, Cheri; Staes, Catherine J; Bray, Bruce E; Deshmukh, Vikrant G; Holbrook, Reid A; Morris, Scott J; Fedderson, Matthew B; Sletta, Amy; Turnbull, James; Mulvihill, Sean J; Crabtree, Gordon L; Entwistle, David E; McKenna, Quinn L; Strong, Michael B; Pendleton, Robert C; Lee, Vivian S

    2015-01-01

    To develop expeditiously a pragmatic, modular, and extensible software framework for understanding and improving healthcare value (costs relative to outcomes). In 2012, a multidisciplinary team was assembled by the leadership of the University of Utah Health Sciences Center and charged with rapidly developing a pragmatic and actionable analytics framework for understanding and enhancing healthcare value. Based on an analysis of relevant prior work, a value analytics framework known as Value Driven Outcomes (VDO) was developed using an agile methodology. Evaluation consisted of measurement against project objectives, including implementation timeliness, system performance, completeness, accuracy, extensibility, adoption, satisfaction, and the ability to support value improvement. A modular, extensible framework was developed to allocate clinical care costs to individual patient encounters. For example, labor costs in a hospital unit are allocated to patients based on the hours they spent in the unit; actual medication acquisition costs are allocated to patients based on utilization; and radiology costs are allocated based on the minutes required for study performance. Relevant process and outcome measures are also available. A visualization layer facilitates the identification of value improvement opportunities, such as high-volume, high-cost case types with high variability in costs across providers. Initial implementation was completed within 6 months, and all project objectives were fulfilled. The framework has been improved iteratively and is now a foundational tool for delivering high-value care. The framework described can be expeditiously implemented to provide a pragmatic, modular, and extensible approach to understanding and improving healthcare value. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Medical Informatics Association.

  14. Visual working memory in deaf children with diverse communication modes: improvement by differential outcomes.

    PubMed

    López-Crespo, Ginesa; Daza, María Teresa; Méndez-López, Magdalena

    2012-01-01

    Although visual functions have been proposed to be enhanced in deaf individuals, empirical studies have not yet established clear evidence on this issue. The present study aimed to determine whether deaf children with diverse communication modes had superior visual memory and whether their performance was improved by the use of differential outcomes. Severely or profoundly deaf children who employed spoken Spanish, Spanish Sign Language (SSL), and both spoken Spanish and SSL modes of communication were tested in a delayed matching-to-sample task for visual working memory assessment. Hearing controls were used to compare performance. Participants were tested in two conditions, differential outcome and non-differential outcome conditions. Deaf groups with either oral or SSL modes of communication completed the task with less accuracy than bilingual and control hearing children. In addition, the performances of all groups improved through the use of differential outcomes. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Changing Mathematics Teaching Practices and Improving Student Outcomes through Collaborative Evaluation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thomas, Kelli

    2013-01-01

    This longitudinal study examines the effects of a collaborative evaluation process on mathematics instruction and student outcomes in an elementary school serving a low-resource community. Thirty-two elementary teachers participated in a 3-year collaborative evaluation professional development process that contributed to improved mathematics…

  16. Leveraging Behavioral Economics to Improve Heart Failure Care and Outcomes.

    PubMed

    Chang, Leslie L; DeVore, Adam D; Granger, Bradi B; Eapen, Zubin J; Ariely, Dan; Hernandez, Adrian F

    2017-08-22

    Behavioral challenges are often present in human illness, so behavioral economics is increasingly being applied in healthcare settings to better understand why patients choose healthy or unhealthy behaviors. The application of behavioral economics to healthcare settings parallels recent shifts in policy and reimbursement structures that hold providers accountable for outcomes that are dependent on patient behaviors. Numerous studies have examined the application of behavioral economics principles to policy making and health behaviors, but there are limited data on applying these concepts to the management of chronic conditions, such as heart failure (HF). Given its increasing prevalence and high associated cost of care, HF is a paradigm case for studying novel approaches to improve health care; therefore, if we can better understand why patients with HF make the choices they do, then we may be more poised to help them manage their medications, influence daily behaviors, and encourage healthy decision making. In this article, we will give a brief explanation of the core behavioral economics concepts that apply to patients with HF. We will also examine how to craft these concepts into tools such as financial incentives and social networks that may improve the management of patients with HF. We believe that behavioral economics can help us understand barriers to change, encourage positive behaviors, and offer additional approaches to improving the outcomes of patients with HF. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  17. Oral Administration of Polymer Hyaluronic Acid Alleviates Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study over a 12-Month Period

    PubMed Central

    Tashiro, Toshiyuki; Seino, Satoshi; Sato, Toshihide; Matsuoka, Ryosuke; Masuda, Yasunobu; Fukui, Naoshi

    2012-01-01

    This study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of oral hyaluronic acid (HA) administration for osteoarthritis (OA) in knee joints. Sixty osteoarthritic subjects (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2 or 3) were randomly assigned to the HA or placebo group. The subjects in the HA group were given 200 mg of HA once a day everyday for 12 months, while the subjects in the placebo group were given placebo. The subjects in both groups were requested to conduct quadriceps strengthening exercise everyday as part of the treatment. The subjects' symptoms were evaluated by the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure (JKOM) score. The symptoms of the subjects as determined by the JKOM score improved with time in both the HA and placebo groups. This improvement tended to be more obvious with the HA group, and this trend was more obvious with the subjects aged 70 years or less. For these relatively younger subjects, the JKOM score was significantly better than the one for the placebo group at the 2nd and 4th months after the initiation of administration. Oral administration of HA may improve the symptoms of knee OA in patients aged 70 years or younger when combined with the quadriceps strengthening exercise. PMID:23226979

  18. Money matters: exploiting the data from outcomes research for quality improvement initiatives.

    PubMed

    Impellizzeri, Franco M; Bizzini, Mario; Leunig, Michael; Maffiuletti, Nicola A; Mannion, Anne F

    2009-08-01

    In recent years, there has been an increase in studies that have sought to identify predictors of treatment outcome and to examine the efficacy of surgical and non-surgical treatments. In addition to the scientific advancement associated with these studies per se, the hospitals and clinics where the studies are conducted may gain indirect financial benefit from participating in such projects as a result of the prestige derived from corporate social responsibility, a reputational lever used to reward such institutions. It is known that there is a positive association between corporate social performance and corporate financial performance. However, in addition to this, the research findings and the research staff can constitute resources from which the provider can reap a more direct benefit, by means of their contribution to quality control and improvement. Poor quality is costly. Patient satisfaction increases the chances that the patient will be a promoter of the provider to friends and colleagues. As such, involvement of the research staff in the improvement of the quality of care can ultimately result in economic revenue for the provider. The most advanced methodologies for continuous quality improvement (e.g., six-sigma) are data-driven and use statistical tools similar to those utilized in the traditional research setting. Given that these methods rely on the application of the scientific process to quality improvement, researchers have the adequate skills and mind-set to embrace them and thereby contribute effectively to the quality team. The aim of this article is to demonstrate by means of real-life examples how to utilize the findings of outcome studies for quality management in a manner similar to that used in the business community. It also aims to stimulate research groups to better understand that, by adopting a different perspective, their studies can be an additional resource for the healthcare provider. The change in perspective should stimulate

  19. Money matters: exploiting the data from outcomes research for quality improvement initiatives

    PubMed Central

    Bizzini, Mario; Leunig, Michael; Maffiuletti, Nicola A.; Mannion, Anne F.

    2009-01-01

    In recent years, there has been an increase in studies that have sought to identify predictors of treatment outcome and to examine the efficacy of surgical and non-surgical treatments. In addition to the scientific advancement associated with these studies per se, the hospitals and clinics where the studies are conducted may gain indirect financial benefit from participating in such projects as a result of the prestige derived from corporate social responsibility, a reputational lever used to reward such institutions. It is known that there is a positive association between corporate social performance and corporate financial performance. However, in addition to this, the research findings and the research staff can constitute resources from which the provider can reap a more direct benefit, by means of their contribution to quality control and improvement. Poor quality is costly. Patient satisfaction increases the chances that the patient will be a promoter of the provider to friends and colleagues. As such, involvement of the research staff in the improvement of the quality of care can ultimately result in economic revenue for the provider. The most advanced methodologies for continuous quality improvement (e.g., six-sigma) are data-driven and use statistical tools similar to those utilized in the traditional research setting. Given that these methods rely on the application of the scientific process to quality improvement, researchers have the adequate skills and mind-set to embrace them and thereby contribute effectively to the quality team. The aim of this article is to demonstrate by means of real-life examples how to utilize the findings of outcome studies for quality management in a manner similar to that used in the business community. It also aims to stimulate research groups to better understand that, by adopting a different perspective, their studies can be an additional resource for the healthcare provider. The change in perspective should stimulate

  20. Functional role of R462 in the degradation of hyaluronan catalyzed by hyaluronate lyase from Streptococcus pneumoniae.

    PubMed

    Li, Fengxue; Xu, Dingguo

    2015-08-01

    Hyaluronan lyase from Streptococcus pneumoniae can degrade hyaluronic acid, which is one of the major components in the extracellular matrix. Hyaluronan can regulate water balance, osmotic pressure, and act as an ion exchange resin. Followed by our recent work on the catalytic reaction mechanism and substrate binding mode, we in this work further investigate the functional role of active site arginine residue, R462, in the degradation of hyaluronan. The site directed mutagenesis simulation of R462A and R462Q were modeled using a combined quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical method. The overall substrate binding features upon mutations do not have significant changes. The energetic profiles for the reaction processes are essentially the same as that in wild type enzyme, but significant activation barrier height changes can be observed. Both mutants were shown to accelerate the overall enzymatic activity, e.g., R462A can reduce the barrier height by about 2.8 kcal mol(-1), while R462Q reduces the activation energy by about 2.9 kcal mol(-1). Consistent with the active site model calculated using density functional theory, our results can support that the positive charge on R462 guanidino side chain group plays a negative role in the catalysis. Finally, the functional role of R462 was proposed to facilitate the formation of initial enzyme-substrate complex, but not in the subsequent catalytic degradation reaction. Graphical Abstract Degradation of hyaluronan catalyzed by hyaluronate lyase from Streptococcus pneumoniae.