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Journal of Ethnopharmacology May 2024The genus Wikstroemia has been extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the management of conditions such as coughs, edema, arthritis, and...
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE
The genus Wikstroemia has been extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the management of conditions such as coughs, edema, arthritis, and bronchitis. Studies have indicated that the crude extracts of Wikstroemia exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, anti-aging, skin psoriasis, anti-cancer, and antiviral properties. In addition, these extracts are known to contain bioactive substances, including flavonoids, coumarins, and lignans. However, few studies have investigated the anti-inflammatory or anti-allergic activities of Wikstroemia trichotoma (Thunb.) Makino against atopic dermatitis (AD).
AIM OF THE STUDY
The study aimed to explore the potential of a 95% ethanol extract of W. trichotoma (WTE) on the dysfunction of skin barrier and immune system, which are primary symptoms of AD, in 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced SKH-1 hairless mice and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)/ionomycin or immunoglobulin E (IgE) + 2,4-dinitrophenylated bovine serum albumin (DNP-BSA) stimulated rat basophilic leukemia cell line (RBL-2H3). Furthermore, we sought to identify the chemical contents of WTE using high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
An in vitro study was conducted using RBL-2H3 cells stimulated with PMA/ionomycin or IgE + DNP-BSA to assess the inhibitory effects of WTE on mast cell degranulation and interleukin-4 (IL-4) mRNA expression levels. For the in vivo study, AD was induced in SKH-1 hairless mice by applying 1% DNCB to the dorsal skin daily for 7 days. Subsequently, 0.1% DNCB solution was applied on alternate days, and mice were orally administered WTE (at 30 or 100 mg/kg/day) dissolved in 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) daily for 2 weeks. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, skin pH, and total serum IgE levels were measured.
RESULTS
In DNCB-stimulated SKH-1 hairless mice, WTE administration significantly improved AD symptoms and ameliorated dorsal skin inflammation. Oral administration of WTE led to a significant decrease in skin thickness, infiltration of mast cells, and level of total serum IgE, thus restoring skin barrier function in the DNCB-induced skin lesions. In addition, WTE inhibited β-hexosaminidase release and reduced IL-4 mRNA levels in RBL-2H3 cells. Chemical profile analysis of WTE confirmed the presence of three phenolic compounds, viz. chlorogenic acid, miconioside B, and matteucinol-7-O-β-apiofuranosyl (1 → 6)-β-glucopyranoside.
CONCLUSIONS
WTE ameliorates AD symptoms by modulating in the skin barrier and immune system dysfunction. This suggests that W. trichotoma extract may offer therapeutic benefits for managing AD.
PubMed: 38823660
DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118398 -
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992) Jun 2024The aim of the nationwide study was to describe paediatric drug utilisation in Sweden.
AIM
The aim of the nationwide study was to describe paediatric drug utilisation in Sweden.
METHODS
Drug prescriptions dispensed to all children aged 0-17 years in 2019 were analysed using data from the Swedish National Prescribed Drug Register.
RESULTS
We retrieved data on 2 180 508 unique children. Nearly 4.6 million prescriptions were dispensed to children aged 0-17 years, and 52% of these were to boys. Just under half of the children (47%) were dispensed at least one drug: 48% of girls and 45% of boys (p < 0.01). More than a third (34%) were dispensed three or more different drugs during 2019. The number of dispensed prescriptions per 1000 children was higher in boys than girls up to 12 years of age (p < 0.01), and the opposite trend was observed from 13 years and above, even when we excluded contraceptives (p < 0.01). The most common therapeutic areas were drugs for the respiratory tract (25%), namely antihistamines, antiasthmatics and cough medication. These were followed by psychoanaleptics and melatonin for the nervous system (19%) and dermatologicals (16%), namely cortisone creams and emollients.
CONCLUSION
Paediatric drug use was common, and a considerable proportion of children were dispensed multiple drugs.
PubMed: 38822667
DOI: 10.1111/apa.17305 -
BMC Public Health May 2024This study aimed to examine the impact of pertussis on the global, regional, and national levels between 1990 and 2019.
OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to examine the impact of pertussis on the global, regional, and national levels between 1990 and 2019.
METHODS
Data on pertussis on a global scale from 1990 to 2019 were collected from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study. We performed a secondary analysis to report the global epidemiology and disease burden of pertussis.
RESULTS
During the period spanning from 1990 to 2019, pertussis exhibited a steady global decline in the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized disability-adjusted life years rate (ASYR), and age-standardized death rate (ASDR). Nevertheless, upon delving into an in-depth analysis of various regions, it was apparent that ASIR in southern sub-Saharan Africa, ASYR and ASDR in high-income North America, and ASDR in Western Europe and Australasia, were witnessing an upward trajectory. Moreover, a negative correlation was observed between the Socio‑demographic Index (SDI) and burden inflicted by pertussis. Notably, the incidence of pertussis was comparatively lower in men than in women, with 0-4-year-olds emerging as the most profoundly affected demographic.
CONCLUSION
The global pertussis burden decreased from 1990 to 2019. However, certain regions and countries faced an increasing disease burden. Therefore, urgent measures are required to alleviate the pertussis burden in these areas.
Topics: Humans; Whooping Cough; Global Burden of Disease; Male; Incidence; Infant; Child, Preschool; Female; Global Health; Disability-Adjusted Life Years; Child; Infant, Newborn; Adolescent; Adult; Cost of Illness
PubMed: 38816714
DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18968-y -
Behçet's disease detecting by hemoptysis and recurrent epididymo-orchitis: A case report from Syria.SAGE Open Medical Case Reports 2024Behçet's disease is a chronic systemic inflammatory vasculitis of unknown etiology. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers,...
Behçet's disease is a chronic systemic inflammatory vasculitis of unknown etiology. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, skin lesions, ocular lesions, and other manifestations. This disease affects many organs and systems, showing a wide range of clinical features. Although pulmonary artery involvement is not common in Behçet's disease, its presence carries a substantial risk of mortality. This report provides a detailed history of a 25-year-old male who was admitted with productive cough, hemoptysis, dyspnea on minimal exertion, fever, and chest pain. He had recurrent orchitis and epididymitis for 7 years, as well as oral and genital ulcers and severe headache. Clinical examination revealed decreased breath sounds at the right middle lung. Thoracic computed tomography angiography confirmed multiple pulmonary artery aneurysms bilaterally. The patient was diagnosed with Behçet's disease, and immunosuppression therapy was initiated. During follow-up, the patient did not report any complications. This case report underscores the significance for clinicians to consider Behçet's disease as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with hemoptysis and a history of orchitis and epididymitis, given that Behçet's disease rarely causes pulmonary artery aneurysms.
PubMed: 38812835
DOI: 10.1177/2050313X241257441 -
Chemical Biology & Drug Design Jun 2024Peimenine (PEI) is a steroid alkaloid substance isolated from Fritillaria thunbergii bulbs. It has various pharmacological activities, such as relief from coughs and...
Peimenine (PEI) is a steroid alkaloid substance isolated from Fritillaria thunbergii bulbs. It has various pharmacological activities, such as relief from coughs and asthma, expectorant properties, antibacterial effects, sedative qualities, and anti-inflammatory properties. Notably, PEI can effectively inhibit the proliferation and tumor formation of liver cancer and osteosarcoma cells by inducing autophagic cell death. However, the precise effect and mechanisms of PEI on urothelial bladder cancer (UBC) cells remain uncertain. Thus, this study aims to investigate the impact of PEI on UBC cells both in vivo and in vitro. The IC values of BIU-87 and EJ-1 cells after 48 h were 710.3 and 651.1 μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, PEI blocked the cell cycle in BIU-87 and EJ-1 cells during the G1 phase. Furthermore, it hindered the migration of BIU-87 and EJ-1 cells substantially. PEI significantly inhibited the tumor development of EJ-1 cells within the xenograft tumor model in vivo. Mechanically, PEI augmented the protein and mRNA expression of BIM, BAK1, and Cytochrome C (CYCS) in UBC cells. Taken together, PEI suppressed the proliferation of UBC cells both in vitro and in vivo by inducing cell death and cell cycle arrest, suggesting that PEI could be applied in the treatment of UBC.
Topics: Urinary Bladder Neoplasms; Humans; Cell Proliferation; Cell Line, Tumor; Animals; Mice; Apoptosis; Mice, Nude; Antineoplastic Agents; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays; Cell Movement; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 38811358
DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14528 -
Lifestyle Genomics 2024It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism,...
INTRODUCTION
It has been suggested that capsaicin (CAP), a major pungent component in chili peppers, can be used as an anti-obesity ingredient due to effects on energy metabolism, but evidence is not consistent. Genetics may account for differences in CAP tolerance and its impact on adiposity status. The aim of this study was to systematically review current evidence concerning the role of genetic polymorphisms influencing CAP tolerance.
METHODS
The present systematic review analyzed and synthesized available evidence concerning associations between genetic polymorphisms and CAP tolerance following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, Google Scholar, SciELO, and LILACS were screened. Out of 228 publications identified, only 6 meet inclusion criteria and were finally included in the final report.
RESULTS
Overall, a total of 28 single nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with several CAP tolerance traits including sensitivity to burning/stinging, heat pain, and cough reactions, and detection of bitter taste thresholds. These genetic variants were located within 6 genes involved in key physiological processes such synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide production (GCH1), CAP uptake and transduction of thermal stimuli (TRPV1), and bitter taste perception (TAS2R38, TAS2R3, TAS2R4, and TAS2R5).
CONCLUSION
There is evidence about the influence of genetic polymorphisms on CAP tolerance by affecting nociceptive signaling, CAP binding, and bitter tasting. This knowledge may facilitate the design and implementation of innovative CAP-based nutrigenetic strategies for a more precise clinical management of obesity.
Topics: Humans; Capsaicin; Obesity; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Capsicum; Taste; Taste Perception; TRPV Cation Channels; Precision Medicine
PubMed: 38810602
DOI: 10.1159/000539293 -
Cureus Apr 2024Allium cepa, or onion, boosts numerous health benefits, including anti-diabetic effects. Its rich array of antioxidants and sulfur compounds not only aids heart health...
BACKGROUND
Allium cepa, or onion, boosts numerous health benefits, including anti-diabetic effects. Its rich array of antioxidants and sulfur compounds not only aids heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure but also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. Onion's antibacterial and antiviral properties help combat infections, while its compounds like quercetin show promise in cancer prevention. Additionally, Allium cepa supports respiratory health by relieving coughs and colds and aids digestion with its prebiotic properties. Incorporating onions into a balanced diet can enhance overall well-being, including managing blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
AIM AND OBJECTIVE
This study aims to determine if the ethanolic extract from the dried peel of Allium cepa holds potential as an anti-diabetic agent, with a focus on its ability to manage diabetes and reduce blood sugar levels.
METHODOLOGY
To prepare the ethanolic extract from dried onion peel, the peel was finely ground and soaked in ethanol. The mixture was then agitated and filtered to separate the liquid extract. Finally, the filtrate was concentrated using methods such as rotary evaporation or vacuum distillation to obtain a concentrated extract for further analysis like alpha-amylase inhibition assay and alpha-glucosidase inhibition assay.
RESULTS
The ethanolic extracts derived from dried onion peel demonstrate inhibition of alpha-glucosidase, leading to reduced blood glucose levels. Additionally, this inhibition prompts an increase in insulin production.
CONCLUSION
The study underscores that the efficacy of the ethanolic extract of dried onion peel increases with concentration. It highlights the presence of beneficial compounds like total phenolics, flavonoids, quercetin, and its derivatives in onion peel, known for their therapeutic roles in cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes control, cancer prevention, and antimicrobial activity. These findings affirm the hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic properties of Allium cepa's ethanolic leaf extract.
PubMed: 38807798
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59174 -
Biomarkers : Biochemical Indicators of... Jul 2024Smoking cessation reduces the risk of developing smoking-related diseases. Although smoking prevalence has declined, many continue smoking cigarettes. Switching... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Smoking cessation reduces the risk of developing smoking-related diseases. Although smoking prevalence has declined, many continue smoking cigarettes. Switching completely to smoke-free alternatives like the Tobacco Heating System (THS) 2.2-a heated tobacco product for which there is evidence demonstrating significantly reduced formation and exposure to harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes-has the potential to reduce the harm caused by continuing to smoke cigarettes.
METHODS
We conducted a 6-month clinical study (NCT02396381) with a 6-month extension (NCT02649556), initially randomizing 984 adult smokers to continue smoking or switch to THS (non-mentholated), of which 672 continued into the extension study. Endpoints were evaluated at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months. We longitudinally assessed biomarkers of potential harm (BoPHs) known to be reversible upon smoking cessation as indicators of pathways involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular or respiratory diseases and carcinogenicity. The need to cough and safety profile were also assessed. Impact on eight key BoPHs was used as a proxy to evaluate harm reduction potential.
RESULTS
At 12 months, comparison of BoPH levels between the predominant THS use and cigarette smoking groups showed a positive effect in favor of switching, partially or in full, to THS.
CONCLUSION
These results provide additional evidence of the harm reduction potential of THS for smokers who would otherwise continue smoking, but they need to be verified in long-term confirmatory studies.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT0264955. Date of registration: January 7, 2016 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02649556.
Topics: Humans; Biomarkers; Cigarette Smoking; Smoking Cessation; Male; Adult; Female; Tobacco Products; Middle Aged; Heating; Harm Reduction; Nicotiana
PubMed: 38804903
DOI: 10.1080/1354750X.2024.2358318 -
Innere Medizin (Heidelberg, Germany) Jun 2024Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder with a variable clinical phenotype that is accompanied by reduced motility of the cilia in the respiratory... (Review)
Review
Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder with a variable clinical phenotype that is accompanied by reduced motility of the cilia in the respiratory tract and numerous other organs. This leads to various characteristic symptoms and disease manifestations, primarily affecting the lungs (chronic persistent productive cough, bronchiectasis), the nose and paranasal sinuses (chronic persistent rhinitis or rhinosinusitis) as well as the middle ear (chronic otitis media, middle ear effusion). Moreover, PCD is associated with impaired fertility or lateralization defects (situs anomalies, congenital heart defects). The diagnostics of PCD are complex and require a combination of several sophisticated instrument-based diagnostic procedures. Through thorough history taking and evaluation, suspected cases can be comparatively well identified based on typical clinical features and referred to further diagnostics. In recent years, molecular genetic analysis through panel diagnostics or whole exome and whole genome sequencing, has gained in importance as this enables affected individuals to participate in disease-specific and genotype-specific clinical trials. Although the current treatment is purely symptomatic, the earliest possible diagnosis is crucial for connecting patients to specialized PCD centers, which can have a significant impact on the clinical course of the affected individuals.
Topics: Humans; Kartagener Syndrome; Phenotype
PubMed: 38801438
DOI: 10.1007/s00108-024-01726-y -
New Microbes and New Infections 2024With the progress and prevalence of COVID-19, concerns have arisen regarding its impact on men's sexual health. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of...
BACKGROUND
With the progress and prevalence of COVID-19, concerns have arisen regarding its impact on men's sexual health. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of examining the effects of COVID-19 on serum levels of sex hormones and semen.
METHODS
Sixty participants who met the study inclusion criteria enrolled in this study between January and April 2022. The individuals were divided into three groups (n = 20): healthy, COVID-19 positive, and recovered from COVID-19. Blood and semen samples were collected from the participants. Serum levels of sex hormones and semen were evaluated both macroscopically and microscopically.
RESULTS
Our study results showed that the most common symptoms observed in the COVID-19 group were cough (100 %), fever (100 %), fatigue (95 %), and runny nose (90 %). Serum levels of sex hormones (testosterone, FSH, and prolactin) in the COVID-19 group were significantly decreased compared to the healthy group. Microscopic examination of semen revealed significant differences in vitality, progressive, and motile parameters among the three groups, with a decrease observed in the COVID-19 group.
CONCLUSION
These results indicate that COVID-19 may have a negative impact on men's sexual health, potentially affecting hormone production and sperm quality. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on male fertility and to explore potential treatment options.
PubMed: 38800713
DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2024.101432