Articles: function.
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Cardiac surgery can lead to dysregulation with a pro-inflammatory state, resulting in adverse outcomes. Hemadsorption using the AN69 membrane (Oxiris membrane) has the properties to chelate inflammatory cytokines. We hypothesized that in patients at high risk of inflammation, the use of the Oxiris membrane could decrease inflammation, preserve endothelial function, and improve postoperative outcomes. ⋯ URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04201119. Identifier: NCT04201119.
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Observational Study
Relationship Between Perilesional Skin Condition and Survival in Terminally Ill Patients with Pressure Ulcers.
Background and Objectives: In the context of palliative care, the aim is to alleviate suffering and improve quality of life, with particular attention to PUs, which have a significant impact on quality of life and survival. This study examines the relationship between perilesional skin condition and survival in terminally ill patients with pressure ulcers (PUs). Materials and Methods: A descriptive and observational study was conducted in two hospitals in Valencia with a sample of 100 terminally ill patients. ⋯ In addition, a positive correlation was found between Barthel Score and survival, suggesting that patients with greater functional independence have a longer life expectancy. On the other hand, the negative correlation between total lymphocyte count and survival suggests that lymphocytopenia may be a marker of adaptive immunosuppression. Perilesional tissue epithelialization, overall functionality and serum albumin levels are key factors in predicting survival, highlighting the need for a comprehensive palliative care approach to optimize quality of life and prolong survival in terminally ill patients with PUs.
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Review
A Review of JAK Inhibitors for Treatment of Alopecia Areata in the Military Health Care System.
Alopecia areata (AA) is a disease that manifests as patchy hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body; severe disease may result in disfigurement, functional impairment, and significant psychological distress. This condition is understood to be caused by autoimmunity to the hair follicle and subsequent arrest of hair growth. New medications, baricitinib and ritlecitinib, belong to the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor family and are among the first FDA-approved treatments for severe AA. In this manuscript, we aim to answer the question: What treatment options exist for AA in the military health care system (MHS)? In doing so, we review the pathogenesis, physical and psychosocial impact of AA, conventional treatment of AA, and the efficacy and safety of baricitinib and ritlecitinib. ⋯ Baricitinib and ritlecitinib are effective treatments for widespread, progressive, and refractory AA. Although JAK inhibitors demonstrate improved effectiveness compared to non-immunomodulator treatments, their use in the MHS for this purpose is limited.