The applications of the plasma matrix in the treatments of dental pulp and periapical diseases / 口腔疾病防治

@#The plasma matrix is a kind of autologous blood conduct. It has been widely used in maxillofacial tissue regeneration, skin cosmetology and some other fields. Recently, to preserve the dental pulp as well as the teeth, pulp regeneration therapy and apical surgery have become increasingly important as well as the applications of bioactive materials. As a kind of autologous bioactive material, the plasma matrix has some natural advantages as it is easy to obtain and malleable. The plasma matrix can be used in the following cases: ①pulp revascularization of young permanent teeth with open apical foramina that cannot stimulate apical bleeding; ② apical barrier surgery with bone defects and large area perforation repair with bone defects or root sidewall repair surgery; ③ apical surgeries of teeth with large area of apical lesions, with or without periodontal diseases. The plasma matrix is a product derived from our blood, and there are no obvious contraindications for its use. Several systematic reviews have shown that the plasma matrix can effectively promote the regenerative repair of dental pulp in patients with periapical diseases. However, the applications of plasma matrix are different because its characteristics are affected by different preparation methods. In addition, there is still a lack of long-term clinical researches on the plasma matrix, and the histological evidences are difficult to obtain, so a large number of in vitro and in vivo experimental studies are still needed. This article will describe the applications of different kinds of plasma matrix for dental pulp regeneration and bone tissue regeneration in apical surgeries to provide references for clinicians in indication selection and prognosis evaluation.

Research progress in therapy drug monitoring of levetiracetam / 中国药房

Levetiracetam （LEV） is the second generation of broad-spectrum anti-epileptic drug. LEV has the advantages of rapid absorption， short half-life， precise efficacy， good tolerance and few drug interactions. In order to improve the clinical efficacy of LEV， and reduce the occurrence of adverse reactions， children， pregnant women， the elderly， and patients with renal insufficiency should receive therapeutic drug monitoring （TDM）. Clinically， the samples are usually plasma or serum， and the TDM methods are mostly immunoassay or chromatography. There is currently no consensus on the effective concentration range of LEV， and the correlation between plasma concentration and adverse reactions is also unclear. The main factors affecting LEV plasma concentration include age， pregnancy， and patient compliance. How to interpret TDM results and adjust dosage based on the results will be the focus of future work.

Strategies for ABO-incompatible liver transplantation / 器官移植

With rapid development of organ transplantation, the issue of global organ shortage has become increasingly prominent. At present, liver transplantation is the most effective treatment for end-stage liver disease. Nevertheless, the shortage of donors has been a key problem restricting the development of liver transplantation. China is a country with a larger number of hepatitis B, and the shortage of donor liver is particularly significant. Many critically ill patients often lose the best opportunity or even die because they cannot obtain a matched donor liver in time. As a strategy to expand the donor pool, ABO-incompatible (ABOi) liver transplantation offers new options for patients who are waiting for matched donors. However, ABOi liver transplantation is highly controversial due to higher risk of complications, such as severe infection, antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), biliary complications, thrombotic microangiopathy, and acute kidney injury, etc. In this article, research progress in preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative strategies of ABOi liver transplantation was reviewed, aiming to provide reference for clinical application and research of ABOi liver transplantation.

Analysis on Components Absorbed into Blood and Cerebrospinal Fluid of Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus Based on Sequential Metabolism / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo identify the prototypical components and metabolites absorbed into blood and cerebrospinal fluid of Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus（SCF） based on sequential metabolism combined with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. MethodBlood and cerebrospinal fluid samples of integrated metabolism， intestinal metabolism and hepatic metabolism were collected from male SD rats after gavage and in situ intestinal perfusion administration， and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/electrostatic field orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry（UPLC Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS） was used to analyze and compare the differences in the spectra of SCF extract， blank plasma， administered plasma， blank cerebrospinal fluid and administered cerebrospinal fluid with ACQUITY UPLC BEH Shield RP18 column（2.1 mm×100 mm， 1.7 µm）， the mobile phase was acetonitrile（A）-0.1% formic acid aqueous solution（B） for gradient elution（0-7 min， 95%B； 7-12 min， 95%-35%B； 12-17 min， 35%-15%B； 17-20 min， 15%-12%B； 20-22 min， 12%-5%B； 22-23 min， 5%B； 23-25 min， 5%-95%B； 25-28 min， 95%B）. And heated electrospray ionization（HESI） was used with positive and negative ion modes， the scanning range was m/z 100-1 500. The prototypical constituents and their metabolites absorbed into blood and cerebrospinal fluid of SCF were identified according to the retention time， characteristic fragments， molecular formulae and the information of reference substances. ResultA total of 42 chemical components were identified in the extract of SCF， including lignans， flavonoids， amino acids， tannins， and others， of which lignans were the main ones. A total of 27 prototypical components and 14 metabolites were identified in plasma samples from different sites. A total of 15 prototypical components and 9 metabolites were identified in cerebrospinal fluid. The main metabolic reactions involved in the formation of metabolites were mainly demethylation， methylation， demethoxylation and hydroxylation. ConclusionThrough the systematic identification of the prototypical components and metabolites of SCF in rats， it provides data support for further better exploring the material basis of SCF in the treatment of central nervous system diseases.

Efectividad del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos en la fisura anal secundaria / Effectiveness of Treating Secondary Anal Fissure with Platelet and Leukocyte-Rich Plasma

Introducción: El plasma rico en plaquetas es un producto derivado de la sangre, rico en péptidos y proteínas de señalización intercelular, así como citoquinas capaces de intervenir en cada una de las etapas de la regeneración de varios tejidos. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos en pacientes con fisura anal secundaria que asistieron a la consulta de Coloproctología del Hospital Docente Provincial Oncológico María Curie de Camagüey en el período de enero de 2020 a enero de 2023. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental. El universo lo conformaron todos los pacientes que acudieron a consulta en ese período. La muestra no probabilística intencionada la conformaron 130 pacientes adultos con diagnóstico de fisura anal secundaria que recibieron tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos. Resultados: El tiempo de cicatrización de la fisura anal permitió corroborar la efectividad del tratamiento; además, la mayoría de los pacientes evolucionaron de forma favorable. El dolor fue la complicación más visible pues presentó significación estadística al establecer la relación entre las variables. Se demostró que el tratamiento con plasma rico en plaqueta y leucocitos en pacientes con fisura anal secundaria es efectivo y seguro en la evaluación final del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Lo expuesto permite considerar que los pacientes tratados obtuvieron buenos resultados al hacer uso del plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos. Por consiguiente, tiene un resultado positivo en no mostrar complicaciones y una alta posibilidad de que el paciente tratado evolucione en mejor condición(AU)

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma is a blood-derived product, rich in peptides and intercellular signaling proteins, as well as cytokines capable of intervening in each of the stages of regeneration of various tissues. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of treatment with platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma in patients with secondary anal fissure who attended the coloproctology office at Hospital Docente Provincial Oncológico María Curie of Camagüey from January 2020 to January 2023. Methods: A quasiexperimental study was carried out, whose universe consisted of all the patients who came for consultation during that period. The nonprobabilistic purposive sample consisted of 130 adult patients with a diagnosis of secondary anal fissure who received treatment with platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma. Results: The healing time of the anal fissure allowed corroborating the effectiveness of the treatment; in addition, most of the patients evolved favorably. Pain was the most visible complication since it presented statistical significance when the relationship between the variables were established. Treatment with platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma in patients with secondary anal fissure proved effective and safe in the final assessment of the treatment. Conclusions: The above allows considering that the treated patients obtained good outcomes when making use of platelet- and leucocyte-rich plasma. Therefore, it has a positive outcome, not showing complications and a high possibility for the treated patient to evolve in a better condition(AU)

Place of plasma argon coagulation in the treatment of vascular abnormalities of the digestive tract in adults

The aim of our study is to evaluate the value of Argon Plasma Coagulation in the treatment of gastrointestinal vascular abnormalities. Patients and methods: This is a descriptive and analytical retrospective study, from January 2009 to September 2020. 198 patients who have benefited from treatment with Argon Plasma Coagulation for vascular anomalies of the digestive tract divided into 2 groups: -Group A: Patients with radial rectitis lesions (n = 107). -Group B: Patients with lesions of digestive angiodysplasia (n = 91). Results: The mean age of our patients was 64.95 ± 9.88 years [43 - 83] in group A, while in group B the mean age was 65.19 ± 14.29 years [40 - 91] with a clear male predominance in 72.5%. The majority of patients in group A were followed for prostate cancer in 33,8%, and 26.3% of patients in group B had chronic renal failure, followed by stomach cancer in 15.8%, and esophageal cancer in 10.5%. Clinical symptomatology was dominated by rectories in 40.2% in group A versus 46.8% in group B. Rectal involvement was dominated in group A in 98.1%, whereas in group B the lesions were mainly located in the stomach in 60.5%. The endoscopic evolution was favorable in all our patients with a clear improvement of rectal lesions and digestive angiodysplasia lesions. The total complication rate in our series was nil. Conclusion: Plasma Argon coagulation is a very effective method in the endoscopic treatment of digestive haemorrhages with good tolerability and a low complication rate. (AU)

Manejo de la Osteoartritis

De todas las enfermedades del sistema musculoesquelético, la osteoartritis (OA) es la más frecuente de las artritis, lo que conlleva a enormes gastos para la sociedad y una gran morbilidad para las personas que la padecen.  Se caracteriza por afectar toda la articulación, incluyendo la degradación del cartílago, el remodelamiento óseo, la formación de osteofitos y la inflamación de la membrana sinovial. En consecuencia, se produce dolor, rigidez, hinchazón y pérdida de la función articular con marcada limitación funcional. El manejo de esta entidad implica una terapia no farmacológica, el uso de drogas para el alivio del dolor y cirugía cuando las medidas anteriores han fallado. Dentro de las medidas no farmacológicas destacan la educación, los ejercicios para el fortalecimiento muscular, la terapia física, la disminución de peso y las ortesis o dispositivos para asistir en la deambulación. En cuanto a las drogas recomendadas podemos mencionar a los antiinflamatorios no esteroideos tanto tópicos como orales y los glucocorticoides intraarticulares. Finalmente, la meniscectomía parcial por artroscopía solo se ha recomendado cuando existe bloqueo en la rodilla. En aquellos individuos que sufran de un dolor insoportable o una limitación funcional severa por una enfermedad avanzada debe considerarse el reemplazo total de la articulación. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Of all the diseases of the musculoskeletal system, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common arthritis, leading to enormous costs to society and great morbidity for sufferers.  It is characterized by involvement of the entire joint, including cartilage degradation, bone remodeling, osteophyte formation and inflammation of the synovial membrane. This results in pain, stiffness, swelling and loss of joint function with marked functional limitation. Management of this entity involves non-pharmacological therapy, the use of drugs for pain relief and surgery when previous measures have failed. Non-pharmacological measures include education, muscle strengthening exercises, physical therapy, weight reduction and orthoses or devices to assist ambulation. As for recommended drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, both topical and oral, and intra-articular glucocorticoids are recommended. Finally, partial meniscectomy by arthroscopy has only been recommended when there is knee locking. In individuals suffering from excruciating pain or severe functional limitation due to advanced disease, total joint replacement should be considered. (provided by Infomedic International)

Humoral and Cellular Immunology in Human Prostate Cancer: Plasma Cells and T and B Lymphocytes / Inmunología Humoral y Celular en el Cáncer de Próstata Humano: Células Plasmáticas y Linfocitos T y B

SUMMARY: In solid and malignant tumors, innate and adaptive immunity are combined in antitumor responses. This study aimed to analyze the activation of plasma cells and the correlation between the infiltration of B and T lymphocytes with the degree of malignancy or Gleason grade in human prostate biopsies diagnosed with cancer. Prostate cancer biopsies were obtained from the Clinical Hospital of Universidad de Chile (n=70), according to the bioethical norms of the institution. Histological sections of 5µm thickness were processed for immunohistochemistry with primary antibodies against BL and total TL (HRP/DAB). Recognition and quantification were performed under a Leica DM750 optical microscope. Microsoft Excel and GraphPad software were used for the statistical study. Correlation coefficient (Pearson) and mean comparison tests (Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn) and p≤ 0.05 were developed. B and T lymphocyte populations were inversely interregulated in prostate cancer (Gleason) (r= -0.46). Their relationship with Gleason grade is variable according to lymphocyte type (LB vs. Gleason r= -0.0.47 and LT vs. Gleason r= -0.21). Histological diagnosis of prostate cancer correlates with a predominance of LT. The malignancy of the pathology correlates with a predominance of LTs, according to the Gleason grade. The increased knowledge of B and T lymphocyte infiltration and plasma cell activation could be used to better target clinical trials on treatments based on immune system responses. Immunotherapy could be a new paradigm to apply better antitumor therapy strategies.

En tumores sólidos y malignos, la inmunidad innata y adaptativa se combinan en respuestas antitumorales. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar la activación de células plasmáticas y la correlación entre la infiltración de linfocitos B y T con el grado de malignidad o grado de Gleason en biopsias de próstata humana diagnosticadas con cáncer. Las biopsias de cáncer de próstata se obtuvieron del Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile (n=70), de acuerdo con las normas bioéticas de la institución. Secciones histológicas de 5 µm de espesor fueron procesadas para inmunohistoquímica con anticuerpos primarios contra LB y LT total (HRP/DAB). El reconocimiento y las cuantificaciones se realizaron bajo un microscopio óptico Leica DM750. Para el estudio estadístico se utilizaron los programas Microsoft Excel y GraphPad. Se desarrollaron pruebas de coeficiente de correlación (Pearson) y comparación de medias (Kruskal-Wallis y Dunn) y p≤ 0.05. Los resultados muestran que las poblaciones de linfocitos B y T están inversamente interreguladas en el cáncer de próstata (r= -0,4578). Su relación con el grado de Gleason es variable según el tipo de linfocito (LB vs Gleason r= -0,47* y LT vs Gleason r= -0,21). Se concluye que la malignidad del cáncer de próstata se correlaciona con un predominio de LT, versus el grado de Gleason. El mayor conocimiento de la infiltración de linfocitos B y T y la activación de células plasmáticas podría aprovecharse para una mejor orientación de ensayos clínicos en tratamientos basados en las respuestas del sistema inmunitario. La inmunoterapia podría ser un nuevo paradigma para aplicar mejores estrategias de terapias antitumorales.

POEMS syndrome: A rare entity

POEMS syndrome is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome due to an underlying plasma cell disorder. The diagnosis of POEMS syndrome can be a challenge. A good history, physical examination, and appropriate testing can aid in establishing its diagnosis. We are presenting the case of a 75-year-old man who was diagnosed with POEMS syndrome.

Clinical characterization and outcomes of a cohort of colombian patients with AL Amyloidosis

Background: Amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis is characterized by amyloid fibril deposition derived from monoclonal immunoglobulin light chains, resulting in multiorgan dysfunction. Limited data exist on the clinical features of AL amyloidosis. Objective: This study aims to describe the clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes in Colombian patients with AL amyloidosis. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted at three high-complexity centers in Medellín, Colombia. Adults with AL amyloidosis diagnosed between 2012 and 2022 were included. Clinical, laboratory, histological, treatment, and survival data were analyzed. Results: The study included 63 patients. Renal involvement was most prevalent (66%), followed by cardiac involvement (61%). Multiorgan involvement occurred in 61% of patients. Amyloid deposition was most commonly detected in renal biopsy (40%). Bortezomib-based therapy was used in 68%, and 23.8% received high-dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HDCT-ASCT). Hematological response was observed in 95% of patients with available data. Cardiac and renal organ responses were 15% and 14%, respectively. Median overall survival was 45.1 months (95% CI: 22.2-63.8). In multivariate analysis, cardiac involvement was significantly associated with inferior overall survival (HR 3.27; 95% CI: 1.23-8.73; p=0.018), HDCT-ASCT had a non-significant trend towards improved overall survival (HR 0.25; 95% CI: 0.06-1.09; p=0.065). Conclusions: In this study of Colombian patients with AL amyloidosis, renal involvement was more frequent than cardiac involvement. Overall survival and multiorgan involvement were consistent with data from other regions of the world. Multivariate analysis identified cardiac involvement and HDCT-AHCT as possible prognostic factors.

Antecedentes: La amiloidosis por amiloide de cadenas ligeras (AL) se caracteriza por el depósito de fibrillas amiloides derivadas de cadenas ligeras de inmunoglobulinas monoclonales, lo que resulta en disfunción multiorgánica. Existen datos limitados sobre las características clínicas de la amiloidosis AL. Objetivo: Este estudio tiene como objetivo describir las características clínicas, tratamientos y desenlaces en pacientes colombianos con amiloidosis AL. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo en tres centros de alta complejidad en Medellín, Colombia. Se incluyeron adultos con diagnóstico de amiloidosis AL entre 2012 y 2022. Se analizaron datos clínicos, de laboratorio, histológicos, de tratamiento y de supervivencia. Resultados: El estudio incluyó 63 pacientes. La afectación renal fue más prevalente (66%), seguida de la afectación cardíaca (61%). El 61% de los pacientes presentaron afectación multiorgánica. El depósito amiloide se detectó con mayor frecuencia en la biopsia renal (40%). El tratamiento basado en bortezomib se utilizó en el 68%, y el 23.8% recibió altas dosis de quimioterapia con trasplante autólogo de progenitores hematopoyéticos (ADQT-TAPH). Se observó respuesta hematológica en el 95% de los pacientes con datos disponibles. La respuesta de órgano cardíaca y renal fue del 15% y 14%, respectivamente. La mediana de la supervivencia global fue de 45.1 meses (IC del 95%: 22.2-63.8). En el análisis multivariado, la afectación cardíaca se asoció significativamente con una supervivencia global inferior (HR 3.27; IC del 95%: 1.23-8.73; p=0.018), ADQT-TAPH mostró una tendencia no significativa hacia una mejora en la supervivencia global (HR 0.25; IC 95%: 0.06-1.09; p=0.065). Conclusiones: En este estudio de pacientes colombianos con amiloidosis AL, la afectación renal fue más frecuente que la afectación cardíaca. La supervivencia global y la afectación multiorgánica fueron consistentes con datos de otras regiones del mundo. El análisis multivariado identificó la afectación cardíaca y ADQT-TAPH como posibles factores pronósticos.

Caracterización del tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos en la fisura anal secundaria

Introducción: Las enfermedades benignas de recto son muy frecuentes en la práctica médica habitual en todos los niveles de atención de salud. Dentro de estos procesos se reconoce que la fisura anal es uno de los más comunes. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes tratados con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos por fisura anal secundaria en la provincia Camagüey en el período comprendido entre septiembre del 2020 y septiembre del 2022. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental, cuyo universo lo conformaron los pacientes con el diagnóstico de fisura anal secundaria que asistieron a la consulta de Coloproctología del Hospital Provincial Docente Oncológico María Curie. Se estableció una muestra no probabilística a criterio de los autores conformada por 132 pacientes adultos, quienes recibieron tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos por fisura anal secundaria en la provincia Camagüey. Resultados: Con respecto al sexo y a la edad, se observó una mayor frecuencia del grupo de 40 a 49 años y predominó el sexo femenino. El síntoma de mayor frecuencia fue el dolor, mientras que en la etiología prevaleció la proctitis facticia. En la mayoría de los casos estudiados la fisura anal cicatrizó en menos de 15 días y en cuanto a la evaluación final del tratamiento solo la minoría empeoró. Conclusiones: La caracterización de la muestra en estudio permite afirmar que el tratamiento con plasma rico en plaquetas y leucocitos tiene beneficios para los pacientes con fistulas perianales y su calidad de vida.

Introduction: Benign rectal diseases are very frequent in routine medical practice at all levels of health care. Among these processes, anal fissure is recognized as one of the most common. Objective: To characterize patients treated with platelet-rich plasma and leukocytes for secondary anal fissure in Camagüey Province between September 2020 and September 2022. Methods: A quasiexperimental study was carried out, whose universe was made up of patients with the diagnosis of secondary anal fissure who attended the coloproctology office at Hospital Provincial Docente Oncológico María Curie. A nonprobabilistic sample was established according to the authors' criterions, made up of 132 adult patients who received treatment with platelet-rich plasma and leukocytes for secondary anal fissure in Camagüey Province. Results: Regarding sex and age, a higher frequency was observed in the group 40 to 49 years old and the female sex was predominant. The most frequent symptom was pain, while the prevailing etiology was factitious proctitis. In most of the cases under study, the anal fissure healed in less than 15 days and, regarding the final assessment of the treatment, only the minority worsened. Conclusions: The characterization of the sample under study allows to affirm that treatment with platelet-rich plasma and leukocytes has benefits for patients with perianal fistulas and their quality of life.

Regeneração óssea guiada para aumento horizontal de rebordo utilizando fibrina rica em plaquetas associada a enxertos ósseos: revisão de literatura / Guided bone regenerationfor horizontal bone augmentation using platelet- rich fibrin associated with bone grafts: literature review

Objetivo: revisar a literatura sobre os diferentes tipos de derivados de plaquetas autólogas e o desempenho clínico do uso do sticky bone para aumento ósseo horizontal de rebordo. Materiais e métodos: Para realização dessa revisão foram realizadas buscas nas bases de dados PubMed, Google Scholar e Web of Science, utilizando os seguintes descritores: "platelet-rich fibrin" AND "sticky bone" OR "alveolar bone grafting" AND "sticky bone" OR "guided bone regeneration" AND "sticky bone" AND "alveolar ridge augmentation" OR "Alveolar ridge augmentation" AND "sticky bone". Foram incluídos artigos publicados em inglês, que abordavam conceitos relacionados aos agregados plaquetários e a regeneração óssea guiada para aumento ósseo horizontal de rebordo utilizando fibrina rica em plaquetas associada à enxertos ósseos (sticky bone). Resultados: Após avaliação dos estudos encontrados foram selecionados 11 artigos sobre o uso do sticky bone para aumento horizontal de rebordo. Para compor este trabalho foram selecionados também 14 estudos de revisão e artigos associados ao tema. Por ser de fácil aplicação e obtenção, muitos autores têm estudado as aplicações cirúrgicas do sticky bone e os resultados demonstram que o aumento horizontal do rebordo utilizando essa técnica pode ser realizado de forma previsível. Conclusão: apesar de haver estudos promissores sobre o uso do sticky bone, falta evidência na literatura sobre seu sucesso clínico. Assim, para compreender o potencial regenerativo desta técnica são necessários um maior número de estudos randomizados, com diferentes materiais de enxerto e protocolos padronizados de obtenção do sticky bone.(AU)

Objective: to review the literature on the different types of autologous platelet derivatives and the clinical performance of using sticky bone for horizontal bone ridge augmentation. Materials and methods: In order to conduct this review, it was conducted searches in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases using the following descriptors: "platelet-rich fibrin" AND "sticky bone" OR "alveolar bone grafting" AND "sticky bone" OR "guided bone regeneration" AND "sticky bone" AND "alveolar ridge augmentation" OR "Alveolar ridge augmentation" AND "sticky bone". It included articles published in English that addressed concepts related to platelet aggregates and guided bone regeneration for horizontal bone augmentation using platelet-rich fibrin associated with bone grafts (sticky bone). Results: After evaluating the studies found, were selected 11 articles on the use of sticky bone for horizontal ridge augmentation. To compose this work, 14 review studies and articles associated with the topic were also selected. Due to its ease of application and availability, many authors have explored the surgical applications of sticky bone, and the results indicate that horizontal ridge augmentation using this technique can be predictably performed. Conclusion: while there are promising studies on the use of sticky bone, the literature lacks evidence regarding its clinical success. Therefore, to fully understand the regenerative potential of this technique, further randomized studies are needed, involving different graft materials and standardized protocols for obtaining sticky bone.(AU)

Effects of therapeutic plasma exchange on a cohort of patients with severe coronavirus infection: real world evidence from Brazil

ABSTRACT Introduction: The therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) controls the systemic cytokine level and might improve the immune response in patients with severe Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection. To date, in developing countries, no study has explored the effectiveness and risk factors in a population with severe COVID-19 exposed to the TPE. Method: We described the risk factors associated with survival rates higher than 28 days and length of stay (LOS) in the intensive care unit (ICU) shorter than 15 days. Severe COVID-19 cases treated with TPE were included, from August 2020 to June 2021. Survival analysis with Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank tests and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted to assess patient-related factors that could predict a higher survival rate and the ICU LOS. Results: A total of 99 patients with severe COVID-19 who had received TPE were followed during their hospital stay and for 28 days after discharge. The sample was composed of men (63%) aged 56 ± 16 years. The overall survival rate at 28 days was 80%. The ICU LOS (p = 0.0165) and mechanical ventilation (MV) (p = 0.00008) were considered factors that could increase the risk of death. Patient-related factors that influenced the 28-day mortality were the smoking status (OR = 5.8; 95%CI 1.5, 22) and history of oncologic or non-malignant hematologic diseases (OR = 5.9; 95%CI 1.2, 29). Conclusion: Patients with severe COVID-19 exposed to the TPE were associated with a 20% risk of death in a 28-day observation window, appearing to be lower than previous treatments. Active smoking, cancer and immunosuppressive conditions should be considered as relevant variables to be controlled in future trials on the TPE and COVID-19.

A Gift of Blood: Opinions and Experience of Voluntary Blood Donors on Repeat Blood Donation

Donating blood is an essential practice that can help save lives. Effective strategies are necessary to attract and keep blood donors to meet the demand for safe blood. To evaluate the experience of voluntary blood donors in Zanzibar, a survey was conducted, and purposive sampling was used to select participants who had donated blood multiple times. The study involved interviewing 15 repeat blood donors, and the data collected was analyzed thematically. Two main themes emerged from the analysis: motivators and barriers. Despite a few negative effects, most participants had positive experiences with repeat blood donation, and only few experienced physical reactions during or after the process. The study concludesthat blood donors in Zanzibar generally have good experience towards repeat blood donation, although community participation, education, and sensitization are needed to recruit and maintain more donors.

Immunophenotypic characterization of normal and abnormal plasma cells in bone marrow of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients

Background: Identification of plasma cells into abnormal (APC) and normal (NPC) compartments is of utmost importance in flow cytometric (FC) analysis of multiple myeloma (MM) and related plasma cell dyscrasias for diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up. No single phenotypic marker is sufficient to distinguish NPC from APC. Materials and Methods: 43 newly diagnosed cases of MM and 13 controls were included in the study. Bone marrow (BM) samples from the 2nd pass were processed on the same day with antibodies against CD38, CD138, CD19, CD81, CD45, CD117, CD200, CD56, cytoKappa, and cytoLambda in a 4-color experiment with CD38 and CD138 as gating antibodies. Results: Mean APC% in cases was 96.5%. The expected Immunophenotype (IP) of APC which is CD19-/56+/45-/81-/117+/200+ was found in only 13/43 MM cases. In 30/43 cases, APC revealed deviation from expected IP either for single or a combination of markers. Sensitivity for APC detection was highest for CD19 (95.2%) followed by CD56 (90.4%) and CD81 (83.7%). Specificity was highest for CD19 (100%), CD56 (100%), and CD81 (100%) followed by CD117 (92.3%). Combination of markers with maximum sensitivity to detect APC (97.6%) was CD81- or CD19- and CD200+ or CD56+ (two markers); and for NPC (92.3%) was CD81+ and CD19+ and CD56- (three markers). Conclusion: Plasma cell IP can be highly variable with multiple minor subpopulations in both cases and normal controls. CD 19 and CD56 are highly informative markers for a 4-color experiment. Assessment of multiple markers in an 8–10 color experiment is more informative but the lack of advanced flow cytometers should not limit the use of FC in a 4-color approach. Our results emphasize that even basic equipment with limited fluorochrome can provide meaningful information if used appropriately.

THE ROLE OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA IN ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA: A COMPREHENSIVE NARRATIVE REVIEW

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a promising treatment in regenerative medicine for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). PRP, derived from the patient's blood, contains a concentrated platelet fraction rich in growth factors and bioactive molecules that aid in tissue repair and wound healing. When PRP is administered, these factors are released, stimulating hair growth and regeneration. PRP's mechanism of action involves the release of growth factors like PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, and IGF, which promote cell proliferation, activate dormant hair follicles, and induce hair cycle growth. PRP also reduces inammation, promotes angiogenesis, and may inhibit 5-alpha reductase activity, which contributes to AGA. By understanding these mechanisms, PRP can be optimized for effective hair restoration therapies in AGA

Impact of antioxidant therapy on antioxidant capacity in hypertensive patients

Background: Hypertension is consistently related to the development of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, stroke, and chronic kidney disease. Oxidative stress has been associated with mechanisms of hypertension which could be nullified by antioxidants such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Aim and Objectives: The objectives of the study are as follows: (i) To estimate the impact of antioxidant therapy on antioxidant capacity in hypertensive patients; (ii) to measure serum levels of glutathione, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in hypertensive patients before and after giving them antioxidant therapy for 45 days. Materials and Methods: Thirty randomly selected hypertensive patients were given Supradyn tablet once a day for 45 days. Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), SOD, GR, GPx, and reduced Glutathione assays were measured before and after the intervention therapy. Results: Total antioxidant capacity as measured by serum FRAP in hypertensive patients before and after the therapy was increased significantly from 578.8 ± 60.85 to 592.1 ± 59.66 (?mol/L), respectively. The levels of SOD, GPx, GR, and Glutathione in hypertensive patients before giving antioxidant therapy were 1.6 ± 0.49 U/ml, 184.6 ± 17.1 ?mol/L/min, 8.96 ± 1.15 ?mol/L/min, and 8.03 ± 0.96 ?mol/g of Hb, respectively. The same after giving them antioxidant therapy were 1.7 ± 0.46 U/ml, 182.4 ± 15.98 ?mol/L/min, 8.83 ± 1.11 ?mol/L/min, and 7.83 ± 0.94 ?mol/g of Hb, respectively. The levels of GPx, GR, and Glutathione were significantly decreased after giving antioxidant therapy for 45 days while SOD level did not change significantly. Conclusion: Antioxidant therapies for 45 days led to a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity as shown by plasma FRAP levels and a significant decrease in serum levels of enzymatic antioxidants such as GPx, GR and Glutathione in hypertensive patients. However, serum levels of SOD did not show a significant change.

Evaluation of interleukin-33 & sST2 levels in type-2 diabetic mellitus patients with or without metabolic syndrome

Background & objectives: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by increase in blood glucose levels due to defective insulin secretion or insulin sensitivity. Interleukins (ILs) are known to play an important role in the pathogenesis of DM. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum concentration of IL-33 and its receptor soluble ST2 (sST2) in patients with diabetes and draw a correlation between their serum levels and different standard glycaemic indices of patients affected with type-2 diabetes with or without metabolic syndrome. Methods: Thirty type-2 diabetic individuals and 30 healthy controls were recruited for this study. Serum and plasma were separated by centrifugation of blood for quantitative measurement of IL-33, sST2 and other biochemical parameters. Results: It was observed that serum IL-33 levels were significantly less and sST2 levels were significantly high in type-2 diabetic individuals as compared to healthy controls. A significant correlation between the serum IL-33 concentration and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) levels were also found. Additionally, data also elucidated that serum levels of high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein or triglyceride in type-2 diabetics did not influence the serum levels of IL-33 and sST2, thereby excluding these factors as the major drivers of changes in serum IL-33 and sST2 concentration. Interpretation & conclusions: This study demonstrated alteration in serum levels of IL-33 and sST2 in type-2 diabetic individuals. Further mechanistic studies, focusing on the progression of type-2 diabetes could elucidate the involvement of IL-33 in the cellular acquisition of insulin resistance as observed in type-2 diabetics

Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of female patients with chronic telogen effluvium: A randomised, controlled, double-blind, pilot clinical trial

Background: Chronic telogen effluvium is characterised by diffuse loss of hair of the scalp. One of the emerging lines of treatment is platelet-rich plasma. However, not much of published data exist. Aims: A pilot study was conducted on chronic telogen effluvium patients to evaluate the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma, and to compare two different methods of platelet-rich plasma preparation. Methods: The study included 30 female patients with chronic telogen effluvium. Patients were randomised into three groups: Group (1): Special platelet-rich plasma tubes centrifuged at 3500 rpm; Group (2): Ordinary laboratory tubes centrifuged at 1000 rpm; Group (3): Normal saline as a placebo. Patients' evaluation was done with visual analog scale, hair pull test, trichoscopy, photos, satisfaction questionnaire, and safety. All patients received four monthly sessions. Patients were evaluated one month and three months after the last session. Results: The hair pull test,visual analogue scale, and patient satisfaction results showed a statistically significant difference between group 1 vs. group 3 and group 2 vs.group 3 at one and three months after the sessions, while there was no difference between group1 vs. group 2. Trichoscopy results (baseline, one and three months after treatment) showed a significant increase in hair density and thickness in the frontal area, temporal area, and the vertex in groups 1 and 2 only. There was no statistically significant difference between the three groups with regards to side effects. Limitations: The sample size was small with ten patients in each group. Furthermore, the follow-up of patients was for only three months. Conclusions: Platelet-rich plasma could be considered as a promising therapy for patients with chronic telogen effluvium with an excellent safety profile. The ordinary laboratory low-cost tubes might be a reliable alternative to the expensive special platelet-rich plasma kits tubes. The trial registry number is PACTR202006539654415