A case-controlled,retrospective, comparative study on the use of biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foam versus polyvinyl acetate sponge after nasal fracture reduction

One of the most frequently used packing materials in closed reduction of a nasal bone fracture is the hydroxylated polyvinyl acetate sponge (PVAS; Merocel^®); however this may cause synechia, epistaxis, and pain. Synthetic polyurethane foam (SPF; Nasopore^® Forte) has recently been used in septoplasty to prevent synechia or restenosis and haematoma formation. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of PVAS and SPF on postoperative appearance and discomfort following the reduction of nasal bone fractures. We retrospectively reviewed all patient questionnaires and medical histories, and clinical photographs and computed tomography scans obtained before and after surgery. Outcomes were assessed using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) score and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, which were used to assess discomfort during the 6-month follow-up period. Postoperatively, there was no statistically significant difference in the GAIS for the two packing materials (P > 0.05). Postoperative epistaxis was observed at a significantly lower rate in the SPF group than in the PVAS group, whereas anterior rhinorrhea and posterior nasal drip occurred at significantly higher rates following removal of packing in the SPF group (P < 0.05). The results of this study suggest that synthetic dissolvable polyurethane may be a reliable alternative material for nasal packing and postoperative management following the reduction of nasal bone fractures.     

Mometasone furoate monohydrate nasal spray for the treatment of nasal congestion in allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis (AR) affects an estimated 20–40 million Americans annually. It is a multifaceted condition comprising a range of symptoms, including nasal congestion, arguably the most bothersome symptom. Of the various types of medications available for the treatment of AR, intranasal corticosteroids are considered the most effective. Mometasone furoate nasal spray is an intranasal corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory properties. It is indicated for the treatment of the nasal symptoms of seasonal AR and perennial AR in adults and children, for the prophylaxis of nasal symptoms of seasonal AR and for the treatment of nasal polyps. Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated that mometasone furoate nasal spray effectively relieves nasal congestion in adults and children with AR, while providing excellent safety and tolerability.     

FHC水力计算软件在自动喷水灭火系统中的应用

随着越来越多的外资和合资工程项目的出现,业主对于工程设计的要求也越来越高,很多项目不仅要求满足国内规范,还需参考国外标准的要求。FHC水力计算软件符合NFPA,FM,BS9251等12个国际标准的要求,而且可以建立复杂的自动喷水系统的水力计算管网模型,因此,FHC软件在工程设计中的应用也越来越多。     

Fabrication and design of transdermal fluconazole spray

The objective of the present study was to formulate fluconazole transdermal spray for obtaining modified drug transport using eutectic mixture, ethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide and alcohol. The formulated products were characterized. The selection of the optimized batch was done considering the results of drug transport in the first hour, the time required for 90% drug transport, viscosity and spray angle of the formulations. The inclusion of eutectic mixture, consisting of equal parts of camphor and menthol, showed improved drug transport through rat skin. The optimized batch exhibited larger mean zone of inhibition (antifungal activity), efficient in vivo activity and short term stability.     

Induction of Apoptosis in Nasal Polyp Fibroblasts by Glucocorticoids In Vitro

Objective—To examine the possible mechanisms underlying the therapeutic mode of action of glucocorticoids (GCs) in nasal polyposis.

Material and Methods—The effects of GCs on nasal polyps were firstly evaluated by examining the growth of fibroblasts derived from 10 nasal polyps in vitro. Subsequently, the ability of GCs to induce apoptotic cell death in fibroblasts was examined.

Results—Addition of betamethasone 21-phosphate (BET) at a concentration of > 1 × 10^?3 M to cell cultures inhibited cell growth in all cases examined. BET and dexamethasone 21-phosphate, but not testosterone or estradiol, caused apoptotic cell death in 2/10 nasal polyp fibroblasts, as assessed by agarose gel electrophoresis, when the cells were cultured with the agents for >96 h. The minimum concentration of agent needed to cause apoptosis was 1 × 10^?3 M, which is half of the recommended therapeutic dose.

Conclusion—The present findings suggest that topical application of GCs in nasal polyposis patients suppresses proliferation of fibroblasts in polyps and results in favorable modification of the clinical status of these patients.     

The role of particle physico-chemical properties in pulmonary drug delivery for tuberculosis therapy

Abstract

There is increasing interest in the use of inhaled aerosol drug therapy for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). A number of methods of preparation of particles have been employed including spray drying, solvent evaporation, emulsion and phospholipid methods to create microparticles, macroaggregated nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles and liposomes. Each of these methods involves the use of different proportions of additives to aid in the particle formation or to achieve important physico-chemical properties such as ease of dispersion. While these approaches all have merit their practical value is limited by constraints on dose and means of delivery as an aerosol in order to achieve a therapeutic effect. A review of a number of approaches is presented and placed in the context of the need for effective aerosol delivery systems for the treatment of TB as a guide to selection of appropriate excipients, processes and delivery strategies to support product development activities.     

Beyond Rieger's original indication; the dorsal nasal flap revisited

IntroductionFew reconstructive options are available for nasal defects measuring >2 cm. Staged procedures are often utilized for nasal defect reconstruction, but they are not feasible in some patients.MethodsOut of 92 patients operated upon for nasal skin lesions between 2009 and 2011, patients who received reconstructive surgery with a dorsal nasal flap, nasal skin lesions located in lower half of nose (≤5 mm from the alar rim), defect diameter ≥3 cm were included in this study.ResultsPatients with nasal lesions larger than 3 cm who refused a staged procedure and were prone to compromised follow up underwent dorsal nasal flap reconstruction. Clear margins were obtained and no flap loss occurred. Minor complications occurred, such as flap dehiscence.ConclusionThe dorsal nasal flap can be effectively utilized for selected lesions as a surrogate for staged procedures that use various local flaps, such as the paramedian flap.