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Electrospun Nanofiber Dressings for Diabetic Wounds: From Single-Layer to Intelligent Composite Systems.

Diabetic chronic wounds have become a major challenge for clinical treatment due to their complex pathological microenvironment, including persistent inflammatory response, angiogenesis disorder, excessive oxidative stress, and susceptible infection. Traditional dressings as a passive barrier have difficulty meeting the above multiple treatment needs. Electrospinning technology, with its ability to mimic the fibrous network structure of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), offers a high specific surface area, controllable porosity, and excellent drug-loading capacity, making it an ideal platform for developing a new generation of multifunctional wound dressings. This article provides a systematic review of the research progress on electrospun nanofiber dressings in the treatment of diabetic wounds, focusing on the design evolution from basic single-layer structures to advanced complex structures and elucidating the mechanisms of action and quantifiable effects of each structural type in addressing specific pathological challenges. We also compared the current status of clinical translation for electrospun dressings with that of other advanced wound care platforms and proposed a standardized preclinical evaluation framework. A large number of research data show that these advanced designs can effectively improve the quality of healing. Finally, this paper points out the challenges faced by this field, such as scalable fabrication, in vivo reliability of smart systems, and long-term biosafety, and provides theoretical basis and technical reference for the design of efficient and intelligent electrostatic spinning diabetic wound dressings.

Nanofibers

Reversed unidirectional transport in a Janus polyurethane/alginate dressing for directional postbiotic delivery to infected wounds.

Probiotic-derived postbiotics exhibit significant potential for infected wound control; however, their effective and localized delivery at wound sites remains a challenge. This study developed a polyurethane/alginate composite nonwoven via electrospinning to establish a postbiotic delivery platform for Bifidobacterium bifidum BD-1 (PU/Alg/BD-1). The beaded fibrous hydrophobic PU layer and hydrophilic Alg layer form a wettability gradient, enabling reversed unidirectional fluid transport toward the wound interface while inhibiting backflow. In vitro results showed that PU/Alg/BD-1 exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and good cytocompatibility with a hemolysis rate of <5%. Targeted metabolomic analysis revealed multiple organic acids in the BD-1 metabolites, which contributed to its antibacterial activity. In vivo microbial analysis verified that PU/Alg/BD-1 effectively reduced the relative abundance of Staphylococcus at the wound site while increasing the proportions of Corynebacterium and Psychrobacter. This microbial modulation contributed to infection control in a rat full-thickness infected wound model, accompanied by a shift in the macrophage phenotype and the downregulation of inflammatory factors including IL-6, TNF-&#x3b1;, and TGF-&#x3b2; in the PU/Alg/BD-1 group. Compared with the blank control, conventional gauze, PU/Alg, and BD-1 groups, PU/Alg/BD-1 significantly promoted wound contraction and re-epithelialization and enhanced collagen deposition. Hence, this study provides an effective material construction strategy for the application of probiotic-derived postbiotics to promote wound healing, demonstrates the potential of BD-1 to regulate the wound microenvironment and accelerate healing, and thereby offers a novel approach for the treatment of infected wounds.

Journal Article

Efficacy of an Adhesive Hydrocolloid Bandage on Wound Healing: Findings of a 28-Day, Single-Centre, Randomised, Controlled Study.

This single-centre, randomised, controlled study assessed the wound healing efficacy of adhesive bandages in eligible healthy adults (N&#x2009;=&#x2009;36) aged 25-55 with Fitzpatrick skin types II and III using a model of laser-induced wounds. Here, we report data for wounds that were randomised to treatment with either a hydrocolloid bandage for multi-day use (BAND-AID Adhesive Bandage Hydroseal), standard of care (SoC) (BAND-AID Adhesive Bandage Tru-Stay Sheer) or an uncovered control. Primary endpoints included the time to complete healing and a composite wound healing score. Hydrocolloid bandage-treated wounds healed twice as fast as the uncovered control or SoC-treated wounds. Median time (days) to complete healing was significantly faster for the hydrocolloid bandage-treated wounds (6.9) versus SoC (11.9) and uncovered control (11.8). Hydrocolloid bandage-treated wounds had significantly better composite wound healing scores versus SoC and versus uncovered control over 2&#x2009;weeks. At Day 28, cosmesis was better with hydrocolloid bandage treatment (0.3) versus SoC (0.6) and uncovered control (2.1) (change from baseline in a composite scar score; higher score&#x2009;=&#x2009;worse outcome). Multi-day wound occlusion with a hydrocolloid bandage promoted faster healing and improved cosmesis compared with daily SoC dressings or uncovered control.

Humans

Bipolar circumcision with mucocutaneous plane separation: A safe, precise, blood-sparing, dressing-free approach.

Conventional circumcision techniques may result in bleeding, limited control of the mucosal collar, and the need for dressings. We describe a modified bipolar technique enabling near-bloodless dissection with precise mucosal trimming. Following bipolar division of the preputial skin, the inner mucosa is separated using two forceps and retracted proximally, creating a protective plane for safe skin adjustment. The mucosal collar is trimmed with scissors. The wound is closed with sutures and 2-octyl cyanoacrylate, avoiding dressings. This technique has been performed in 55 consecutive cases (median age: 2 years and 2 months; range: 0 days-17 years and 5 months) with no reported complications over a median follow-up of 2 years and 7 months (range: 3 months-4 years and 1 month).

Humans

Seed-derived mucilage polysaccharides as biomaterials for in vivo tissue regeneration: A systematic review.

Chronic wounds, bone defects, and cartilage injuries represent persistent clinical challenges requiring biomaterial platforms that actively regulate inflammation, oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Conventional synthetic dressings often provide limited biological activity in these contexts. Seed-derived mucilages - polysaccharide-rich hydrocolloids obtained from chia (Salvia hispanica), flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), psyllium (Plantago ovata), guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba), quince (Cydonia oblonga) etc. - have emerged as biocompatible, biodegradable, and chemically versatile platforms for tissue engineering. This systematic review, conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, synthesized in vivo evidence on seed-derived mucilage-based biomaterials across wound healing, bone repair, cartilage regeneration, and related applications. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection were searched for original in vivo experimental studies published in English between 2020 and 2026. Eligible studies reported at least one measurable regenerative outcome. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers, and methodological quality was assessed using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool. Forty-three studies were included. Hydrogels were the dominant biomaterial format, followed by films, scaffolds, sponges, nanoparticle systems, and bilayer or Janus composites. Included systems generally improved wound closure, re-epithelialization, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, antioxidant defense, and inflammatory regulation. However, most studies used small animals with short follow-up periods, and many incorporated nanoparticles or bioactive agents, limiting attribution of efficacy to the mucilage matrix alone. Risk of bias was predominantly unclear due to insufficient reporting of randomization and blinding. Blank mucilage controls, standardized characterization, long-term biosafety data, and clinically relevant models are essential prerequisites for translational progress.

Humans

Effectiveness of chlorhexidine gluconate-impregnated dressings in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection in a paediatric intensive care unit: A randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effectiveness and dermatological safety of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)-impregnated dressings versus conventional transparent dressings in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) in paediatric patients admitted to a PICU. METHODS: A single-blind, randomised controlled trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio was conducted in a tertiary PICU. A total of 250 paediatric patients with a central venous catheter were included (125 per group). Patient characteristics, catheter-related variables, catheter dwell time and skin alterations were recorded. The primary outcome was CLABSI, defined according to CDC/NHSN criteria. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression were performed, including clinically relevant covariates related to catheter exposure, dressing type, and vaccination status. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07175116). RESULTS: CLABSI incidence was significantly lower in the CHG group compared with the conventional dressing group (2.4% vs. 18.4%; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). In multivariable analysis, CHG-impregnated dressings were independently associated with reduced CLABSI risk (OR = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.04-0.58). Longer catheter dwell time (OR = 1.13 per day; 95% CI: 1.04-1.22) and absence of complete vaccination (OR = 8.68; 95% CI: 2.48-30.47) were also associated with increased infection risk. Incomplete vaccination showed a similar trend without reaching statistical significance (OR = 6.48; 95% CI: 0.95-44.20). Skin alterations were more frequent in the CHG group (16.8% vs. 11.2%), predominantly in younger infants. CONCLUSIONS: CHG-impregnated dressings were associated with a significant reduction in CLABSI incidence in critically ill paediatric patients, although their use was linked to a modest increase in mild skin reactions. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: CHG-impregnated dressings may be considered as part of a multifaceted infection prevention strategy, alongside appropriate catheter management, minimisation of catheter manipulation and proactive skin monitoring, with cautious and individualised use in infants.

Humans

The effect of compression dressing on postoperative outcomes after upper eyelid blepharoplasty: a randomized, controlled, observer-blinded evaluation study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a compression dressing on postoperative pain, ocular surface changes, edema, ecchymosis, and aesthetic outcomes following upper eyelid blepharoplasty. METHODS: This observer-blinded, randomized, controlled trial included 112 eyelids from 56 patients who underwent bilateral upper eyelid blepharoplasty between June and August 2025. After surgery, one eyelid received a compression dressing (CD), while the other eyelid received no dressing (ND). Edema and ecchymosis were graded by masked observers on postoperative days 1, 7, 30, and 90. Aesthetic outcomes were evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Score. Pain was evaluated using a visual analog scale, and patient comfort was assessed by side preference. RESULTS: On postoperative day 1, ecchymosis scores were significantly lower in the CD group than in the ND group (unadjusted p = 0.002; Holm-adjusted p = 0.012). Edema scores were also lower on the CD side (unadjusted p = 0.012) and aesthetic scores were higher (unadjusted p = 0.046); however, neither difference remained statistically significant after Holm-Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons (adjusted p = 0.060 and p = 0.138, respectively). No significant differences were observed in any parameter on postoperative days 7, 30, or 90 (all adjusted p > 0.05). Corneal staining scores were comparable between groups at all follow-ups, and no corneal erosions were observed. Pain scores on day 1 were similar (p = 0.977). CONCLUSIONS: Compression dressing after upper eyelid blepharoplasty was associated with a significant reduction in early postoperative ecchymosis, an effect that persisted after correction for multiple comparisons. Reductions in edema and improvements in aesthetic scores were observed on postoperative day 1 but did not remain statistically significant after adjustment. Overall, the benefits of compression dressing were limited in magnitude and transient, and routine use may not be necessary; its application should be individualized according to patient needs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT07701265 (retrospectively registered on July 8, 2026).

Humans

Applications of metal-organic frameworks in smart packaging for food freshness indication: a comprehensive review.

Smart packaging is extensively studied for its multifunctional capabilities in antimicrobial activity, preservation, and atmosphere modification. Recently emerged metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) freshness-indicating packaging becomes a key research direction in smart packaging owing to its distinctive functions and physicochemical properties. As multifunctional materials, the unique porous structure and tunable properties of MOFs provide a distinctive approach for developing food packaging applications dedicated to food freshness indication. Existing MOFs-based smart packaging still faces potential safety risks and technical challenges in practical applications, and there remains a lack of integrated discussion that combines synthesis strategies, packaging design, optimization, and safety assessment. This review elaborates on the application of MOFs in freshness-indicating smart packaging, focusing on diverse MOFs synthesis strategies, the formats of smart packaging, types of indicator signals, and qualitative/quantitative analytical methods. It also delves into the methodology concepts of MOFs-based smart packaging and evaluates MOFs safety in food packaging by addressing potential risks. Studies show that MOFs-based smart packaging achieves qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of food freshness through multiple signal modalities such as visible color change, fluorescence, and photothermal effects. This review emphasizes that safe MOFs design is critically important and should comply with the overall migration limit of <10 mg/dm2 specified in Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004, lanthanide element limit of <0.05 mg/kg, and FDA threshold of 1.5 &#x3bc;g/person/day. Comprehensive safety assessment and intelligent sensing platforms will constitute pivotal directions for advancing MOFs-based smart packaging toward practical application.

Food Packaging

Effectiveness of a blended care intervention in physiotherapy with exercise and education for patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis (SmArt-E): A multicentre pragmatic randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a twelve-month smartphone-assisted physiotherapy (SmArt-E) intervention versus usual care in hip and/or knee osteoarthritis (OA), and to assess usability and patient satisfaction with the digital support. METHOD: We conducted a multicentre, pragmatic, parallel-group randomized controlled trial in 27 physiotherapy practices in Germany. Patients with physician-diagnosed hip and/or knee OA aged &#x2265;50 (hip) or &#x2265;38 years (knee) were randomly allocated to SmArt-E (IG; n=166) or usual care (CG; n=164). The twelve-month intervention combined supervised and smartphone-assisted training and education (blended care). Primary outcomes were pain (NRS, 0-10) and physical function (HOOS/KOOS-ADL, 0-100) at twelve months. Secondary outcomes followed OARSI domains; usability and patient satisfaction were also assessed. RESULTS: Among 330 participants (mean age 64&#xb1;8 years), baseline NRS was 3.2&#xb1;2.3 in the CG and 3.5&#xb1;2.4 in the IG; HOOS/KOOS-ADL was 71.6&#xb1;17.7 and 69.4&#xb1;17.5, respectively. No significant between-group differences were found for pain (-0.36; 95% CI: -0.84 to 0.12; p=0.14) or physical function (2.66; 95% CI: -0.46 to 5.77; p=0.09). Among 13 secondary outcomes, significant differences favouring the IG emerged at three and twelve months for several domains; however, effect sizes were small and unlikely to be clinically meaningful. CONCLUSION: SmArt-E did not demonstrate superior effectiveness over usual care in mild hip and/or knee OA. Both groups improved over time, with slightly more favourable but clinically inconclusive outcomes in the IG. Findings highlight the need to refine the intervention, better identify eligible patients, and optimize digital and in-person components.

Humans

Smart crutch tipsTM real-time feedback improves adherence to partial weight-bearing protocols following lower extremity fracture surgery: a pilot study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of Smart Crutch Tips&#x2122; in promoting adherence to prescribed early partial weight-bearing (PWB) protocols and to assess patient experience with real-time weight-bearing feedback during home rehabilitation. METHODS: Twenty patients with lower extremity fractures prescribed partial weight-bearing (PWB) were randomized into two groups utilizing real-time feedback crutch tips (RFC). The Intervention group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;10) used Smart Crutch Tips&#x2122; (ComeBack Mobility Inc., Kiev, Ukraine), which provided real-time feedback on weight-bearing compliance. The Control group (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;10) also used crutches equipped with Smart Crutch Tips&#x2122;, but notifications were disabled, allowing passive data collection without patient feedback. Weight-bearing compliance was defined as the percentage of steps within &#xb1;&#x2009;10% of the prescribed target. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction and device usability assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS) throughout the home rehabilitation period. RESULTS: The Intervention group demonstrated significantly greater PWB compliance compared with the Control group (73.6% vs. 21.1%, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01). The Intervention group reported a mean SUS score of 84.25, indicating excellent usability. No device-related complications or adverse events were observed. Patient satisfaction, assessed through video interviews, was high, with participants in the Intervention group expressing a strong willingness to recommend the device to others with similar injuries and rating it 10 out of 10. CONCLUSION: Smart Crutch Tips&#x2122; significantly improved adherence to prescribed partial weight-bearing protocols following lower extremity fracture surgery. The RFC device demonstrated high usability, excellent patient satisfaction, and no device-related complications during home rehabilitation throughout the study period.

Humans

Technology choice, glycemic control and patient-reported outcome measures in adults with type 1 diabetes: A randomized crossover trial comparing a smart insulin pen with an automated insulin delivery system (EBIACE-1).

AIMS: To compare glycemic outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between smart insulin pens (SIP) and an automated insulin delivery (AID) system in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and to identify individuals able to maintain near-optimal glycemic control using SIP. METHODS: EBIACE-1 was a randomized, open-label, crossover trial including 31 adults with T1D. Participants received SIP (InPen&#x2122;) and AID (MiniMed&#x2122; 780G) for 6&#xa0;months each. Co-primary outcomes were time in range (TIR 70-180 mg/dL) and HbA1c. Treatment effects were assessed using longitudinal models in intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses. Predictors of near-optimal glycemic control with SIP were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: AID improved glycemic control versus SIP, with higher TIR (81&#xa0;% vs 66&#xa0;%; +15&#xa0;%, 95&#xa0;% CI 10-19; P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001) and lower HbA1c (6.9&#xa0;% [52&#xa0;mmol/mol] vs 7.3&#xa0;% [56&#xa0;mmol/mol]; -0.4&#xa0;%, 95&#xa0;% CI&#xa0;-&#xa0;0.6 to&#xa0;-&#xa0;0.3; P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). Near-optimal glycemic control with SIP was achieved by 12 of 26 participants (46&#xa0;%). In exploratory analyses, higher baseline diabetes-related life interference was associated with a lower probability of achieving this outcome. CONCLUSIONS: AID provides superior glycemic control, although nearly half of participants achieved near-optimal control with SIP, supporting a personalized approach to technology selection.

Adult

Associations between smart infusion pump-electronic health record interoperability and healthcare outcomes: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: This study synthesized available evidence on the associations between smart infusion pump-electronic health record (EHR) interoperability and healthcare outcomes. METHODS: A systematic review of PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Scopus databases identified 901 records, which were imported into Rayyan&#xae; for duplicate removal, independent screening by three reviewers, and resolution of discrepancies. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed, data-driven, and reported associations between smart infusion pump-EHR interoperability and healthcare outcomes. Studies focused solely on technical validation or interoperability prototypes were excluded. A backward citation search identified additional studies. Two reviewers independently extracted and cross-validated study characteristics using standardized templates. Methodological quality was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools. RESULTS: Twenty records of 14 full-text studies and 6 conference proceedings were included. Most records reported positive associations between smart infusion pump-EHR interoperability and outcomes related to safety (e.g., medication administration errors, safety-reported events, pump alerts, and compliance with interoperability and drug library), operational efficiency (e.g., programming and documentation time and technical issues), financial performance (e.g., charges captured, and cost avoided), and user experience domains. Most studies used observational designs, reflecting real-world interoperability implementations, where controlling confounding factors is challenging. Limited reporting of baseline characteristics, pump type, and sample sizes limited comparability across studies. CONCLUSIONS: Smart infusion pump-EHR interoperability was associated with improvements in patient safety, efficiency, charge capture, and user experience, with variable findings across studies. Future research should use rigorous methodologies and standardized measures, examine relationships across outcome domains, assess limitations of pump-EHR interoperability, and evaluate underexplored outcomes, including team communication, cognitive workload, and AI-enabled pumps. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: Interoperability should be viewed as a component of a broader sociotechnical system, in which technology, user, workflow, clinical content, and organizational practices collectively determine overall effectiveness.

Humans

Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Using a Smart Ring and Telephone Counselling: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HB-CR) is a promising alternative to center-based cardiac rehabilitation as it can address several barriers impeding CR implementation because of its enhanced accessibility. However, to date, HB-CR has not garnered adequate attention due to a lack of communication between patients and medical staff. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of HB-CR by monitoring the pulse rate (PR) using a smart ring equipped with photoplethysmography. METHODS: Patients with cardiovascular disease were educated on structured HB-CR methods following a symptom-limited cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), and were instructed to wear the device during the exercise session. The recorded PR was uploaded to a website via a smartphone and monitored by medical staff. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: intervention or control group. The intervention group received weekly telephone counselling and was encouraged to maintain optimal levels of physical activity. In contrast, the control group only recorded their exercise data without additional interventions. After 3 months of training, the CPET was performed. RESULTS: Among the 64 randomized patients (32 in each group), an intention-to-treat analysis showed that peak oxygen consumption increased over time in both the groups, with a significantly greater improvement in the intervention group. The group-by-time interaction for peak oxygen consumption was statistically significant (estimated mean difference, 2.0 mL/kg/min; 95% confidence interval, 0.7-3.3; P = 0.004). CONCLUSION: HB-CR using a smart device was effective in improving oxygen consumption. However, appropriate monitoring and timely counselling by medical professionals are important for improved outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0005893.

Humans

Clopidogrel vs Aspirin According to Diabetes Mellitus: A Prespecified Analysis of the SMART-CHOICE 3 Trial.

BACKGROUND: Recent trials support the superior efficacy of clopidogrel compared to aspirin monotherapy after completion of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients who have undergone percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, limited evidence is available in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). OBJECTIVES: This study sought to evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of clopidogrel vs aspirin monotherapy according to the presence of DM. METHODS: This was a prespecified analysis of the SMART-CHOICE 3 trial, which was a multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial comparing clopidogrel vs aspirin monotherapy in patients with complex coronary lesions or high-risk clinical characteristics. From August 2020 to July 2023, a total of 5,506 patients who underwent PCI and standard DAPT duration and had complex coronary lesions, DM, or previous myocardial infarction, were randomized to clopidogrel or aspirin monotherapy groups. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), which was defined as a composite of death from any cause, myocardial infarction, or stroke. RESULTS: Of 5,506 patients, 2,089 had DM (1,039 in the clopidogrel group and 1,050 in the aspirin group). At a median follow-up of 2.3 years (IQR: 1.6-3.0 years), DM patients had a higher risk of MACCE compared to non-DM patients (6.8% vs 4.7%; HR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.10-1.87; P = 0.008). Clopidogrel showed a significantly lower risk of MACCE than aspirin in DM patients (4.5% vs 9.1%; HR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.38-0.86; P = 0.008). There was no significant interaction between DM and antiplatelet monotherapy regarding MACCE (P for interaction = 0.124). The risk of bleeding was comparable between the 2 groups in DM patients (2.9% vs 2.9%; HR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.57-1.95; P = 0.855). CONCLUSIONS: Among DM patients who completed the standard duration of DAPT after PCI, clopidogrel monotherapy was associated with a lower risk of a composite of death from any cause, myocardial infarction, and stroke compared with aspirin monotherapy, without increased rates of bleeding. There was no significant interaction between DM and antiplatelet monotherapy with respect to MACCE. (SMART-CHOICE 3 [SMart Angioplasty Research Team: CHoice of Optimal Anti-Thrombotic Strategy in Patients Undergoing Implantation of Coronary Drug-Eluting Stents 3]; NCT04418479).

Humans

Effects of Vacuum Compression Therapy on Healing of Chronic Lower Limb Ulcers: A Randomised Controlled Study.

Chronic lower limb ulcers remain difficult to manage when unresponsive to conventional treatment. This study evaluated the clinical and physiological effects of vacuum compression therapy on wound healing and quality of life. Fifty patients with chronic lower limb ulcers were randomised to receive 12 sessions of vacuum compression therapy plus standard care or standard care alone over 4&#x2009;weeks. Wound dimensions, exudate, pain intensity and quality of life were assessed at baseline and post-treatment. Estimated wound volume was calculated as length&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;width&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;depth. Tissue oxygenation was measured at the dorsum of the foot in the experimental group. The vacuum compression therapy group showed greater improvements in wound width, depth, volume and quality of life. Estimated wound volume decreased by 61% in the intervention group, whereas no statistically significant volume reduction was observed in controls. Local tissue oxygenation in the experimental group increased by 43%. Baseline wound size was associated with poorer quality of life. Vacuum compression therapy may enhance wound healing and quality of life in patients with chronic lower limb ulcers. Observed increases in local tissue oxygenation represent exploratory physiological findings within the treated cohort that warrant controlled comparative evaluation. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT07737184.

Humans

Skin cell suspension autograft as an evidence-based innovation in burn and wound treatment: A systematic review of global evidence across two decades.

BACKGROUND: Skin cell suspension autograft (SCSA) is a point-of-care approach to wound management facilitating epithelialization while reducing burden associated with conventional autografting. Despite growing clinical use of SCSA across diverse wound etiologies, the global clinical evidence describing its use has not yet been comprehensively synthesized. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) guidelines to identify studies between January 2000 and December 2024 reporting clinical use of SCSA for wound closure. Data on patient demographics, wound characteristics, and treatment methods were extracted. Clinical, safety, and health economic outcomes were extracted for comparative studies evaluating SCSA against control treatments. RESULTS: Ninety-nine studies across 13 countries were included. Across the overall dataset, SCSA was used alone or in combination with autografting for burns, surgical wounds, traumatic injuries, inflammatory conditions, and chronic wounds. Among comparative studies (n=27), SCSA consistently reduced donor skin, and healing outcomes favored SCSA in 61%, while 39% reported equivalent outcomes. Pain and esthetic outcomes more frequently favored SCSA, while safety outcomes were generally similar, with some studies favoring comparators. Health-economic outcomes suggested potential reductions in length of stay and resource utilization, although findings were variable across studies. CONCLUSION: The available global evidence supports SCSA as a versatile modality for supporting epidermal coverage across wound types and clinical contexts. However, the findings should be interpreted in the context of the limitations of this review, which include heterogenous study designs, variable outcome reporting, predominance of non-randomized data, and the absence of a formal quantitative analysis. Nevertheless, the demonstrated clinical and economic benefits in comparative studies reinforce the role of SCSA as an evidence-based innovation for burn and wound treatment.

Humans

Dual-Reporter Gene-Based Multimodal Imaging for Tracking Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Diabetic Skin Wound Repair.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a clinically challenging complication characterized by poor healing outcomes, and conventional therapies provide limited benefit. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation offers a promising strategy for DFU repair. However, the low survival of transplanted MSCs in the hostile wound microenvironment, coupled with the lack of real-time, non-invasive methods to track these cells in vivo, severely hampers their therapeutic efficacy and clinical translation. METHODS: We engineered MSCs to co-express a dual reporter system comprising near-infrared fluorescent protein (iRFP) and ferritin heavy chain (FTH1). These modified cells were then integrated with a fibrin glue (FG) scaffold to create a unified platform that supports both multimodal imaging and therapeutic function within skin wounds. First, FTH1 overexpression enhances the antioxidant capacity of MSCs, while the FG scaffold provides structural support; this combination enhances cell survival and retention. Second, the iRFP/FTH1 dual reporter enables near-infrared fluorescence imaging and MRI-based localization, establishing a multimodal platform for real-time cell tracking. RESULTS: In a full-thickness skin defect model in diabetic mice, multimodal imaging revealed that transplanted cells persisted in the wound area for approximately seven days. Treatment with iRFP/FTH1-MSCs/FG significantly accelerated wound closure and promoted hair follicle regeneration and angiogenesis. Additionally, local iron deposition resulting from FTH1 expression enhanced fibroblast migration and collagen synthesis, further facilitating extracellular matrix remodeling. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that this therapy drives macrophage polarization toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype and activates the PI3K-AKT-VEGF signaling pathway. These complementary effects synergistically enhance tissue regeneration and systematically improve diabetic wound healing. CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, this multimodal stem cell-scaffold system effectively integrates dynamic cell tracking with stem cell therapy during skin wound repair. It addresses a critical technical gap in visualizing stem cells within the wound microenvironment and provides valuable methodological and theoretical foundations for optimizing regenerative strategies for diabetic skin wounds.

Animals