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Tanyu Tongzhi Formula (TTF) exhibits potential against atherosclerosis; however, its mechanisms remain unclear. This study explores the pharmacological mechanisms of TTF in treating atherosclerosis. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, mendelian randomization (MR), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses were utilized to reveal potential targets and compounds of TTF against atherosclerosis. After exploring the appropriate concentration of TTF to treat HCAECs using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), the HCAECs were divided into three groups: control, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL, 50 μg/mL), and ox-LDL (50 μg/mL) + TTF (1 mg/mL). After 24-h incubation, the efficacy of TTF was verified by CCK-8, Oil red O staining, and ELISA. The expression of key targets was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting. A total of 137 active compounds and 127 potential TTF targets against atherosclerosis were identified. MR identified ALB, TNF, PPARα, and PPARγ as key targets. Molecular docking indicated that baicalin, naringenin, and curcumin exhibited suitable binding activities to these targets, further confirming by LC-MS analysis. The IC50 of TTF in HCAECs was 18.25 mg/mL. TTF treatment significantly improved atherosclerosis by enhancing cell viability, reducing lipid accumulation, and inhibiting inflammation factors (IL6, IL1B and TNF-α) in ox-LDL-treated HCAECs. Moreover, qPCR or western blotting indicated that TTF could up-regulate PPARα and PPARγ while down-regulate TNF expression. Our results revealed active compounds, key pathways, and core targets of TTF against atherosclerosis, providing experimental support for its application in treating of atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology, with its potential to manipulate matter at nanometric scales, has revolutionized multiple sectors. Among various nanomaterials, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are prominent due to their unique physicochemical properties, attributed to their small size and crystallinity. ZnO NPs are widely used in biomedicine due to their adaptability, biocompatibility, low toxicity, and cost-effectiveness. However, conventional fabrication methods, which often involve harmful reducing chemicals, pose significant environmental and health risks. In recent years, the use of biological extracts in the synthesis of ZnO NPs has gained favor as a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach. Plant-based phyto-extracts, in particular, are highly effective for this purpose. These extracts act as bio-reducers, stabilizers, and capping agents, influencing the size, surface properties, and overall architecture of the ZnO NPs. This green synthesis method not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances the inherent biofunctionalities of ZnO NPs, making them highly suitable for various biomedical applications. Greenly-designed ZnO NPs exhibit a range of pharmacological benefits, including antimicrobial effects against bacterial and fungal pathogens, antioxidative properties against reactive oxygen species (ROS), anticancer activities against abnormal cell proliferation, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. These attributes make greenly-designed ZnO NPs promising candidates for advancing healthcare technologies, combining sustainability with potent therapeutic potential. [Display omitted] • Nanotechnology holds functions in the diverse sectors. • ZnO NPs (zinc oxide nanoparticles) has peculiar physiochemical traits. • ZnO NPs are suitable for biomedical applications. • Phyto-extract adopted ZnO NP's fabrication is eco-friendly. • Greenly-designed ZnO NPs exhibits versatile pharmacological traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carrot is a root vegetable well-known for its high nutritional content and health advantages. It is well known for its strong antioxidant content, particularly carotenoids, which have been linked to cancer-fighting effects. Carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamins in carrots have been demonstrated to have anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, and immune-boosting qualities, lending credence to the long-held concept that carrots are good for eye health. Numerous in-vivo and in-vitro research have revealed carrots' numerous health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, renoprotective, hepatoprotective, and facilitate the excretion of fats and bile by the liver. Carrot seed extracts have also been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. Carrot pomace, which contains about 50% -carotene, has been recognized as a valuable byproduct that can be economically helpful for boosting culinary products such as biscuits, bread, and cakes, as well as preparing various functional goods. Carrot pomace powder is used to create bread and extruded items, demonstrating this waste's variety and prospective applications. This comprehensive review focuses on the nutritional composition, phytonutrients, functional properties, product development, and utilization of carrots and their byproducts. This review aims to provide valuable insights into the diverse uses and advantages of incorporating carrots into various food and health products by highlighting the potential health benefits and applications of carrots and their derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the heterogeneous nature of depression, the underlying etiological mechanisms greatly differ among individuals, and there are no known subtype-specific biomarkers to serve as precise targets for therapeutic efficacy. The extensive research efforts over the past decades have not yielded much success, and the currently used first-line conventional antidepressants are still ineffective for close to 66% of patients. Most clinicians use trial-and-error treatment approaches, which seem beneficial to only a fraction of patients, with some eventually developing treatment resistance. Here, we review evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies on the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant treatment response. We also discuss the efficacy of the currently used pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, as well as the novel emerging therapies. The review reveals that the underlying mechanisms in the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant response, are not specific, but rather involve an interplay between various neurotransmitter systems, inflammatory mediators, stress, HPA axis dysregulation, genetics, and other psycho-neurophysiological factors. None of the current depression hypotheses sufficiently accounts for the interactional mechanisms involved in both its etiology and treatment response, which could partly explain the limited success in discovering efficacious antidepressant treatment. Effective management of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) requires targeting several interactional mechanisms, using subtype-specific and/or personalized therapeutic modalities, which could, for example, include multi-target pharmacotherapies in augmentation with psychotherapy and/or other non-pharmacological approaches. Future research guided by interaction mechanisms hypotheses could provide more insights into potential etiologies of TRD, precision biomarker targets, and efficacious therapeutic modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical relaxation (CR) was performed in ewes during diestrus, to prospect a feasible protocol for non-surgical embryo transfer (NSET). In Trial 1, naturally mated ewes (n=13) received CR protocols with estradiol benzoate (EB, 1 mg on D6) and oxytocin (OT, 50 IU on D7) only (G-EB+OT) or associated with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG, 300 IU on D7, G-EB+OT+hCG) and were compared to non-hormonally treated (G-control) ewes. Estradiol concentration increased (P<0.05) from D6 to D7 in G-EB+OT and G-EB+OT+hCG, then decreased (P<0.05) on D8. The G-EB+OT had reduced (P<0.05) progesterone on D8, and 0% (0/5) pregnancy, while G-control had 100% (3/3) conception rate. The treatment with hCG mitigated the progesterone drop on D8 and resulted in 50% (2/4) conception rate. In Trial 2, cervical transposing success after treatment with EB, OT, and hCG on D6 and D7 was assessed in nulliparous (n=25) and multiparous (n=30) ewes. The EB+OT+hCG protocol allowed efficient cervical transposition (~78% of cervical transposition success into ~5 min) in nulliparous and multiparous females and did not alter total and blood perfusion areas of corpora lutea (CL). The use of EB+OT+hCG was efficient to ensure effective cervical transposing in nulliparous and multiparous ewes, with no apparent deleterious effect on CL function, and may contribute to animal welfare, allowing a less invasive NSET procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catechin is one of the prestigious phytoconstituent obtained from the divine wealth of nature. It is a polyphenolic constituent which is broadly distributed in plant kingdom and tea, legumes and rubeaceous plants are rich sources of it. Various research groups have extracted and isolated it by using different analytical techniques due to its diverse pharmacological profile. It is evident in nature that catechin possesses promising anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer and anti-viral properties. There are several formulations reported which are intended for multiple uses where catechins are important ingredient. This review discusses the various analytical techniques employed for the extraction and isolation of catechins from various sources, as well as a summary of various reported formulations. The authors also discuss the various pharmacological activities exhibited by catechins, along with the significant outcomes and plausible mode of action. In addition, the review provides an insight into various synthetic and biosynthetic procedures for catechins, along with a description of various clinical trials and patents. In the lateral sections of this compilation, an insight to various synthetic/biosynthetic procedures for catechins has been provided along with description to various clinical trials and patents. Although a lot of progress has been made towards exploration of catechins, still these are associated with some issues of bioavailability and unclear modes of action, which need to be resolved in upcoming times. This review is more comprehensive on catechins, as it covers a wider range of topic includings; analytical techniques for the extraction and isolations of catechins, formulations containing catechins, pharmacological activities, synthetic and biosynthetic procedure, clinical trials as well as patents. The review also provide a more in-depth discussion of the pharmacological activities of catechins, including the significant outcomes and plausible mode of action. The article also highlights the need for the further research to address the issues of bioavailability and unclear modes of action associated with the catechin. This is an important area of research, as it is essential to understand the ADME to develop effective catechin-based therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal has been used as a source of medicine since ancient times. In developing countries, a key issue about assurance of the protection, quality and effectiveness of medicinal plants and herbal products has become prevalent. The wide use of herbal remedies and healthcare preparations is mentioned in the various Vedas. Herbal plants have been utilized for numerous years to preserve and enhance food flavor, address health issues, and prevent illnesses, including epidemics. For a prolonged period, plants have been a valuable source of natural products for maintaining human health, especially within the past decade, with more demanding studies for natural therapies. Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook) Raffinis is one of the important plants. Traditionally, diverse plant components have been used to cure various illnesses, including rheumatism, diabetes, bronchitis, anemia, fever, gynecological diseases, and pneumonia. To understand the molecular mechanism of action to search for lead molecules from natural resources, isolated principles from D. regia must be tested scientifically in animal models and clinical trials. This article reviews research on the plant Delonix regia to till date in context to phytochemical and pharmacological perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Tanyu Tongzhi Formula (TTF) exhibits potential against atherosclerosis; however, its mechanisms remain unclear.Objective This study explores the pharmacological mechanisms of TTF in treating atherosclerosis.Materials and methods Network pharmacology, molecular docking, mendelian randomization (MR), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses were utilized to reveal potential targets and compounds of TTF against atherosclerosis. After exploring the appropriate concentration of TTF to treat HCAECs using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), the HCAECs were divided into three groups: control, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL, 50 μg/mL), and ox-LDL (50 μg/mL) + TTF (1 mg/mL). After 24-h incubation, the efficacy of TTF was verified by CCK-8, Oil red O staining, and ELISA. The expression of key targets was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting.Results A total of 137 active compounds and 127 potential TTF targets against atherosclerosis were identified. MR identified ALB, TNF, PPARα, and PPARγ as key targets. Molecular docking indicated that baicalin, naringenin, and curcumin exhibited suitable binding activities to these targets, further confirming by LC-MS analysis. The IC50 of TTF in HCAECs was 18.25 mg/mL. TTF treatment significantly improved atherosclerosis by enhancing cell viability, reducing lipid accumulation, and inhibiting inflammation factors (IL6, IL1B and TNF-α) in ox-LDL-treated HCAECs. Moreover, qPCR or western blotting indicated that TTF could up-regulate PPARα and PPARγ while down-regulate TNF expression.Discussion and conclusions Our results revealed active compounds, key pathways, and core targets of TTF against atherosclerosis, providing experimental support for its application in treating of atherosclerosis.

The carrot is a root vegetable well-known for its high nutritional content and health advantages. It is well known for its strong antioxidant content, particularly carotenoids, which have been linked to cancer-fighting effects. Carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamins in carrots have been demonstrated to have anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, and immune-boosting qualities, lending credence to the long-held concept that carrots are good for eye health. Numerous in-vivo and in-vitro research have revealed carrots’ numerous health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, renoprotective, hepatoprotective, and facilitate the excretion of fats and bile by the liver. Carrot seed extracts have also been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. Carrot pomace, which contains about 50% -carotene, has been recognized as a valuable byproduct that can be economically helpful for boosting culinary products such as biscuits, bread, and cakes, as well as preparing various functional goods. Carrot pomace powder is used to create bread and extruded items, demonstrating this waste’s variety and prospective applications. This comprehensive review focuses on the nutritional composition, phytonutrients, functional properties, product development, and utilization of carrots and their byproducts. This review aims to provide valuable insights into the diverse uses and advantages of incorporating carrots into various food and health products by highlighting the potential health benefits and applications of carrots and their derivatives.

Abstract Due to the heterogeneous nature of depression, the underlying etiological mechanisms greatly differ among individuals, and there are no known subtype-specific biomarkers to serve as precise targets for therapeutic efficacy. The extensive research efforts over the past decades have not yielded much success, and the currently used first-line conventional antidepressants are still ineffective for close to 66% of patients. Most clinicians use trial-and-error treatment approaches, which seem beneficial to only a fraction of patients, with some eventually developing treatment resistance. Here, we review evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies on the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant treatment response. We also discuss the efficacy of the currently used pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, as well as the novel emerging therapies. The review reveals that the underlying mechanisms in the pathogenesis of depression and antidepressant response, are not specific, but rather involve an interplay between various neurotransmitter systems, inflammatory mediators, stress, HPA axis dysregulation, genetics, and other psycho-neurophysiological factors. None of the current depression hypotheses sufficiently accounts for the interactional mechanisms involved in both its etiology and treatment response, which could partly explain the limited success in discovering efficacious antidepressant treatment. Effective management of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) requires targeting several interactional mechanisms, using subtype-specific and/or personalized therapeutic modalities, which could, for example, include multi-target pharmacotherapies in augmentation with psychotherapy and/or other non-pharmacological approaches. Future research guided by interaction mechanisms hypotheses could provide more insights into potential etiologies of TRD, precision biomarker targets, and efficacious therapeutic modalities.

Abstract Background Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) continues to be the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, driven by environmental factors like smoking and genetic predispositions. LUAD has a high mortality rate, and new biomarkers are urgently needed to improve treatment strategies and patient management. Programmed cell death (PCD) is involved in tumor progression and response to treatment. Therefore, there is a need for an extensive study of the role and functions of PCD-related genes (PCDRGs) in lung adenocarcinoma so as to understand the pathophysiologic features of lung adenocarcinoma. Methods Based on TCGA and GEO databases, this research is aimed at screening differentially expressed PCD-related genes in lung adenocarcinoma. We conducted GO, and KEGG analysis to establish the link between these genes and biological processes. By applying various machine learning algorithms such as CoxBoost analysis, we developed PCD-related indices (PCDI) that were used to verify their ability to predict prognosis with the use of other datasets. This was done in addition to exploring the biological functions of PCD genes associated with lung adenocarcinoma by assessing the relationship between immune cell components of tumor microenvironment and PCD genes together with examining how they affect drug sensitivity. Results The research presented in this article offers significant insights into LUAD. The authors identified 113 PCDRGs that were differentially expressed in LUAD. These genes are implicated in various biological functions, including High risk ing apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pathways specific to non-small cell lung cancer. Notably, the PCDI proved effective in distinguishing between High risk and Low risk LUAD patients, demonstrating a higher accuracy in prognosis prediction compared to traditional clinical indicators such as age and gender. This high prediction accuracy was validated in both test and validation cohorts. Additionally, these genes showed significant correlations with immune cell infiltration and drug sensitivity in LUAD patients. Conclusion We analysed the expression and function of PCDRGs in LUAD and revealed their correlation with patient survival, the immune microenvironment and drug sensitivity. The constructed PCDI model provides a scientific basis for the personalised treatment of lung adenocarcinoma, and future optimisation of treatment strategies based on these genes may improve patient clinical outcomes.

Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) continues to be the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, driven by environmental factors like smoking and genetic predispositions. LUAD has a high mortality rate, and new biomarkers are urgently needed to improve treatment strategies and patient management. Programmed cell death (PCD) is involved in tumor progression and response to treatment. Therefore, there is a need for an extensive study of the role and functions of PCD-related genes (PCDRGs) in lung adenocarcinoma so as to understand the pathophysiologic features of lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: Based on TCGA and GEO databases, this research is aimed at screening differentially expressed PCD-related genes in lung adenocarcinoma. We conducted GO, and KEGG analysis to establish the link between these genes and biological processes. By applying various machine learning algorithms such as CoxBoost analysis, we developed PCD-related indices (PCDI) that were used to verify their ability to predict prognosis with the use of other datasets. This was done in addition to exploring the biological functions of PCD genes associated with lung adenocarcinoma by assessing the relationship between immune cell components of tumor microenvironment and PCD genes together with examining how they affect drug sensitivity. Results: The research presented in this article offers significant insights into LUAD. The authors identified 113 PCDRGs that were differentially expressed in LUAD. These genes are implicated in various biological functions, including High risk ing apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pathways specific to non-small cell lung cancer. Notably, the PCDI proved effective in distinguishing between High risk and Low risk LUAD patients, demonstrating a higher accuracy in prognosis prediction compared to traditional clinical indicators such as age and gender. This high prediction accuracy was validated in both test and validation cohorts. Additionally, these genes showed significant correlations with immune cell infiltration and drug sensitivity in LUAD patients. Conclusion: We analysed the expression and function of PCDRGs in LUAD and revealed their correlation with patient survival, the immune microenvironment and drug sensitivity. The constructed PCDI model provides a scientific basis for the personalised treatment of lung adenocarcinoma, and future optimisation of treatment strategies based on these genes may improve patient clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.), has been remained a well-known ethnic medicinal vegetable, used traditionally as a pharma food to obtain a plenty of pharmacological benefits. However, which fraction of fruit is most effective for provision of bioactive components, has been remained undiscovered yet. This study examined the chemical composition, phytochemicals and antioxidant activities of peel, flesh, and seeds of bitter gourd. Our results showed that fat (3.50 ± 0.03%) and protein (3.40 ± 0.06%) content were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) high in bitter gourd seed powder (BSP), whereas ash (6.26 ± 0.06%) and fiber (5.46 ± 0.10%) in bitter gourd peel powder (BPP). Microminerals including Fe, Zn, Cu and Mn were found significantly (P < 0.05) high in BSP, with values 3.95 ± 0.05, 4.92 ± 0.04, 2.44 ± 0.04 and 1.32 ± 0.20 mg/100 g, respectively, whereas, macrominerals, Ca (74.90 ± 0.60 mg/100 g) and Mg (52.59 ± 0.20 mg/100 g), in bitter gourd flesh powder (BFP). Total phenolic content (27.78 ± 0.95 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoid content (12.18 ± 0.08 mg QE/100 g) and total antioxidant activity (16.87 ± 0.11 mg trolox/100 g) was highest in BSP. However, BFP exhibited the greatest total carotenoid content (93.45 ± 0.40 mg/100 g) and β–carotene content (41.72 ± 0.15 mg/100 g). HPLC analysis revealed that all fractions of bitter gourd were loaded with bioactives, as naringenin and catechin were highest in BFP, epicatechin, ferulic acid, kaempferol and p-coumaric acid were highest in BPP, whereas, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid and apigenin were highest in BSP. As compared to BFP and BPP, BSP exhibited the high concentration of important bioactive components, therefore instead of discarding these waste by-products of bitter gourd could be utilized as source of bioactives.Article highlights: Momordica charantia peel, flesh and seeds were explored for phytochemicals through conversion into powders and ethanolic extracts. Highest minerals, fat, protein, phenolics and flavonoids found in seeds, highest ash and fiber in peel, and highest carotenoids in flesh Naringenin, catechin, epicatechin, ferulic acid, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid were major bioactives in bitter gourd [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Taraxasterol is a pentacyclic triterpenoid which was first discovered from the roots of Taraxacum officinale. However, it is generally found in the Taraxacum genus (Pugongying in Chinese). It has been reported to possess several medicinal properties, and modulate several biochemical and metabolic signaling pathways as a means of exerting its pharmacological effects. Even though some biological effects have been ascribed to taraxasterol, it is still being explored for more therapeutic benefits. This review aimed to highlight the relevance of taraxasterol as an antidiabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant agent. Methods: Articles for this review were searched on Scopus, Nature, SpringerLink and PubMed databases. The keywords used for the search were “taraxasterol pharmacology”, “taraxasterol antioxidant”, “taraxasterol cancer”, “taraxasterol biosynthesis” and “taraxasterol antidiabetic”. Relevance and report of distinct mechanisms of action were considered in the selection. Results: This review underlines the therapeutic potential of taraxasterol in cancer and diabetes conditions, while also highlighting its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Some specific biochemical pathways that are modulated due to the pharmacological effect of taraxasterol were diagrammatically represented. Conclusions: It is hoped that this review would stimulate interest in taraxasterol by focusing on its pharmacological relevance, specific mechanisms of action and pharmacokinetics. This might facilitate its eventual development into drug and adoption into treatment regimen of various diseases.

Background: Hydnocarpus anthelmintica is a plant of the Hydnocarpus anthelmintica family, mainly found in Thailand, Southeast Asia, and other countries. It is also cultivated in Yunnan, Hainan, Guangxi, and other places in China, with a long medicinal history and a wide variety. Purpose: To review the pharmacological and chemical components of the plants of the genus Typhoon, providing a basis for their future scientific research and clinical application. Method: A comprehensive search was conducted on Pubmed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, Sinomed, and Wanfang. Results: Through literature review, it is known that Hydnocarpus anthelmintica contains chemical components such as fatty oil, lignans, coumarins, and terpenes, which have the effects of dispelling wind and dampness, antibacterial and insect killing, lowering blood lipids and blood sugar, and anti-tumor. However, due to the toxicity of its raw materials, it is often combined with other Chinese medicinal herbs to prepare topical preparations for clinical use. Conclusion: Hydnocarpus anthelmintica has rich chemical components, extensive pharmacological effects, and a wide distribution of species. It is rich in medicinal resources and can be used in clinical practice alone or in combination with other Chinese medicinal herbs. Due to the toxicity of its raw products, it can be widely used in clinical practice after standardized processing.

Abstract Hylocereus undatus, occasionally referred to as the dragon fruit or white‐fleshed pitaya, is a rich in nutrients fruit appreciated because of its colorful look and health benefits. It is inexpensive in calories but packed with minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium in addition to essential nutrients like vitamin C and B vitamins. Similarly rich in dietary fiber, particularly promotes gut wellness and improves digestion, is pitaya. It additionally contains antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and betalains, which help with scavenging free radicals and reducing the detrimental effects of oxidative stress on the human body. The substantial amount of betalains in Hylocereus undatus phytochemical composition is notable because it contributes to the plant's anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. There has been an association among these phytochemicals and a decreased likelihood of contracting long‐term conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Omega‐3 fatty acids and omega‐6 fatty acids, in particular, that reduce cholesterol levels while improving blood circulation, are plentiful in the fruit's seeds and are beneficial to heart wellness. The objective of this review is to highlight the nutritional profile, phytochemical and health benefits of Hylocereus undatus in detail.

Insomnia is a significant, highly prevalent, persistent public health problem but often remains undiagnosed and untreated. Current treatment practices are not always evidence-based. When insomnia is comorbid with anxiety or depression, treatment often targets that comorbid condition with the expectation that improvement of the mental health condition will generalize to sleep symptoms. An expert panel of seven members conducted a clinical appraisal of the literature regarding the treatment of insomnia when comorbid anxiety or depression are also present. The clinical appraisal consisted of the review, presentation, and assessment of current published evidence as it relates to the panel's predetermined clinical focus statement, "Whenever chronic insomnia is associated with another condition, such as anxiety or depression, that psychiatric condition should be the only focus of treatment as the insomnia is most likely a symptom of the condition". The results from an electronic national survey of US-based practicing physicians, psychiatrists, and sleep (N = 508) revealed that >40% of physicians agree "at least somewhat" that treatment of comorbid insomnia should focus solely on the psychiatric condition. Whereas 100% of the expert panel disagreed with the statement. Thus, an important gap exists between current clinical practices and evidence-based guidelines and more awareness is needed so that insomnia is treated distinctly from comorbid anxiety and depression.

In this narrative, comprehensive, and updated review of the literature, we summarize evidence about the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing emotion dysregulation and improving emotion regulation in children, adolescents, and adults. After introducing emotion dysregulation and emotion regulation from a theoretical standpoint, we discuss the factors commonly associated with emotion regulation, including neurobiological and neuropsychological mechanisms, and the role of childhood adverse experiences and psycho–social factors in the onset of emotion dysregulation. We then present evidence about pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions aiming at improving emotion dysregulation and promoting emotion regulation across the lifespan. Although our review was not intended as a traditional systematic review, and the search was only restricted to systematic reviews and meta-analyses, we highlighted important implications and provided recommendations for clinical practice and future research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morinda citrifolia L., commonly known as mengkudu in Malaysia, is a medicinal plant utilized for thousands of years to treat various health problems. The plant has been widely used in traditional medicine, especially among the Malay community. However, there is little scientific proof of the medicinal properties of the plant. Thus, this review discussed and summarized the latest scientific findings on the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of M. citrifolia L. The research articles were gathered from various electronic databases and following the title, abstract and content screening, a total of 136 articles were selected from SCOPUS (56), Web of Science (25), Science Direct (16), and Google Scholar (39) from 2016 to 2022. The duplicated articles from the databases were then eliminated. Information was gathered from the resulting 45 articles and discussed in this review. The data suggested that phytochemical compounds, mainly from the phenolics and flavonoids classes, found within different parts of the M. citrifolia L. plant possessed biological activities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anticancer, and antihypertensive properties. Factors such as the conditions and solvents used during the extraction process played essential roles in investigating the therapeutic properties of different parts of the plant. Although M. citrifolia L. could treat diseases, more clinical trials are needed to understand its therapeutic and preventive effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chemical constituents and Pharmacological activities of Tagetes minuta have been classified according to the research in between 1992 and 2023. • Essential oils and thiophenes are major bioactive constituents present in Tagetes minuta. • Extracts and isolated compounds of Tagetes minuta showed antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammtory and anticancer activities. With a rich historical background, Tagetes minuta (L.) (T. minuta) belonging to the family Asteraceae has been traditionally employed to treat numerous ailments. Notably, its essential oil finds application in agrochemicals, perfumery and cosmetic industries. This review aims to provide up-to-date information on its phytochemical constituents and various pharmacological activities along with relevant published patents of this plant. This valuable data will be beneficial for researchers, as well as professionals in agrochemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries seeking up-to-date insights. The literature available on this plant was thoroughly analysed to extract information regarding its phytochemical composition, including essential oils, flavonoids, terpenoids, thiophenes, sterols and phenolics. Moreover, the pharmacological activities of T. minuta were critically examined encompassing antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antidepressant and insecticidal properties among others. Overall, this comprehensive and systematic review consolidates the existing knowledge on the phytochemistry and the pharmacological activities of T. minuta that underscore its immense potential as a valuable source of natural compounds with diverse therapeutic properties. Additional investigations are necessary to uncover the underlying mechanisms of its actions and conduct clinical trials to verify its effectiveness and safety in humans. This review provides valuable insight for researchers, pharmacologists, and herbal medicine practitioners, supporting evidence-based utilization of T. minuta in the field of medicine, pharmaceuticals, and natural product discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important bulbs crops farmed in India is garlic (Allium sativum L.). It is a rich source of bioactive substances that satisfy a person’s daily nutritional demands for well-being. Allicin is the most prominent bioactive compound in garlic that exhibits various pharmacological properties including highly antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anti-aging, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. It offers defense against a variety of malignancies such as asthma, bronchitis, hemorrhoids, fever, cough, headache, stomach discomfort, low and high blood sugar, and snakebites can all be treated with garlic. Raw garlic has been proven the ‘Panacea’ for cardiovascular and heart-related diseases since earlier ago. This review emphasizes the biological role of this wonderful medicinal plant in the treatment of various ailments. The medicinal effects of different constituents of this plant have been also addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Tamarix in the Tamaricaceae family consists of more than 100 species of halophyte plants worldwide that are mainly used to improve saline-alkali land and for coastal windbreaks, sand fixation, and afforestation in arid areas. A considerable number of species in this genus are also used as traditional medicines to treat various human diseases, especially in Asian and African countries. This review presents a comprehensive summary of 655 naturally occurring compounds derived from the genus Tamarix, categorized into flavonoids (18.0%), phenols (13.9%), tannins (9.3%), terpenoids (10.5%), essential oils (31.0%), and others (17.3%). The investigation revealed that the crude extracts and phytochemicals of this genus exhibited significant therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer, anticancer, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Six species of Tamarix have anticancer effects by causing cancer cell death, inducing autophagy, and stopping cell division. Seven species from the same genus have the potential for treating diabetes by inhibiting α-glycosidase activity, suppressing human islet amyloid polypeptide, regulating blood glucose levels, and modulating autophagy or inflammation. The focus on antibacterial and antidiabetic effects is due to the presence of volatile oil and flavonoid components. Extensive research has been conducted on the biological activity of 30 constituents, including 15 flavonoids, 5 phenols, 3 terpenoids, 1 tannin, and 6 others. Therefore, future research should thoroughly study the mechanisms of action of these and similar compounds. This is the most comprehensive review of the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of Tamarix species, with a critical assessment of the current state of knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn. (Piperaceae) is a spice plant cultivated in West Africa for its aromatic, pungent, or otherwise desirable qualities. The leaves of P. guineense are used as a leafy vegetable, while its fruits are favoured for imparting flavour to a wide range of African soups. This study aimed to review available scientific literature on the pharmacognostic, ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, and pharmacological studies of P. guineense Schum. & Thonn. in Africa, from the year 2000 till date. Pharmacognostic studies have identified various macroscopic, organoleptic, microscopic, and physicochemical characteristics have been identified, providing valuable tools for the accurate identification and authentication of P. guineense. The phytochemical studies of the plant revealed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. Several studies have explored various plant parts of P. guineense, to elucidate its pharmacological effects, including its potential as an antimalarial, anticancer, antioxidant, aphrodisiac, antiplatelet, hepatoprotective, and antimicrobial agent. This review has shown that beyond its traditional role as a spice, P. guineense offers significant nutritional and biological benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The necessity for wellness and good habits that boost resistance to illness has come to light due to worries about possible health concerns. Because they are harmless, biologically active polysaccharides derived from plants are excellent substitutes for treating various illnesses. Tinospora cordifolia (Thunb.) Miers, an evergreen perennial climber, is known as "guduchi." This plant, which is dioecious and deciduous, is a member of the Menispermaceae family. In the Indian medical system, a plant named Rasayana is incredibly beneficial. Different extraction and purification techniques have been used to separate and characterise the polysaccharides from Tinospora cordifolia. In addition to hot-water extraction, other state-of-the-art techniques are used to extract the polysaccharides from T. cordifolia, such as Enzyme-Assisted Extraction (EAE), pulsed electric field, microwave-assisted extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and supercritical fluid extraction. The modern healthcare system has also recognised its efficacy. The stem of the plant may be used medicinally. Because the stems contain more alkaloids than the leaves, the entire plant is utilised medicinally. This plant also offers many other benefits, including immunomodulation, hypoglycemia, antioxidants, anti-hyperglycemia, allergies, inflammation, and diabetic mellitus. Most of the plant's chemical makeup comprises alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, sesquiterpenoids, aliphatic, diterpenoid lactones, and other unidentified evidence. This study highlights the many traditional and ethnobotanical uses of T. cordifolia and the countless pharmacological, phytochemical, and clinical literature written about the plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hamelia patens, a member of the Rubiaceous family, is typically found in both tropical and subtropical regions. It is applied in traditional medicine to treat a range of conditions, including ovary and vaginal dysfunction, menstruation troubles, athlete's foot, skin conditions, bug bites, psychiatric disorders, migraines, rheumatoid, asthma, dysentery and headaches. A significant bioactive component of Hamelia patens includes phytonutrients, polyphenolsand alkaloids. Given that the uniqueness and practicality of Hamelia patens effective natural origin are yet unknown, there is a bright future for research in this field. Numerous biological effects, including nephroprotective, antifungal activity, microbiological activity, anti-epileptic activity, anti-allergic activity, inflammatory, antiviral activity &and anticancer activity, are thoroughly demonstrated in various plant components. The present review article provides detailed information on the pharmacological properties and numerous medicinal and traditional uses of the plant and its constituents' chemical composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the effectiveness of the different pharmacological agents in preventing post-ERCP acute pancreatitis We included clinical trials of pharmacological interventions for prophylaxis of acute post-ERCP pancreatitis. The event evaluated was acute pancreatitis. We conducted a search strategy in MEDLINE (OVID), EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to nowadays. We reported the information in terms of relative risks (RR) with a 95% confidence interval. We assessed the heterogeneity using the I2 test. We included 84 studies for analysis (30,463 patients). The mean age was 59.3 years (SD ± 7.01). Heterogeneity between studies was low (I2 = 34.4%) with no inconsistencies (p = 0.2567). Post ERCP pancreatitis was less in prophylaxis with NSAIDs (RR 0.65 95% CI [0.52 to 0.80]), aggressive hydration with Lactate Ringer (RR 0.32 95% CI [0.12–0.86]), NSAIDs + isosorbide dinitrate (RR 0.28 95% CI [0.11–0.71]) and somatostatin and analogues (RR 0.54 [0.43 to 0.68]) compared with placebo. NSAIDs, the Combination of NSAIDs + isosorbide dinitrate, somatostatin and analogues, and aggressive hydration with lactate ringer are pharmacological strategies that can prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis when compared to placebo. More clinical trials are required to determine the effectiveness of these drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Saururus chinensis (Saururaceae) is an important medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine to treat human diseases. Sauchinone, a lignin from Saururus chinensis, is reported to have numerous pharmacological applications in medicine, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-obesity, and hepatoprotective effects. Methods: The purpose of this review article is to describe the scientific information about sauchinone, its medical importance and pharmacological activity in order to explore the potential health benefits of sauchinone in medicine. In this review, all the scientific information about sauchinone was collected from PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Google, and Google Scholar. Additionally, this review also described the pharmacokinetics of sauchinone in order to understand the plasma drug profile of sauchinone with their molecular docking studies. Results: Scientific evidence in this review article described the biological importance of sauchinone in medicine against breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver cancer, lung adenocarcinoma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, osteosarcoma, diabetes, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoarthritis, liver disorders and other human complications. Additionally, molecular docking studies, and pharmacokinetics parameters of sauchinone were also presented in this review to know their therapeutic value in medicine. However, molecular mechanisms of sauchinone were also described in the present review in order to know their biological significance in different kinds of human complications. Discussion: The scientific evidence in this article demonstrates the medicinal importance and the molecular mechanisms involved in the pharmacological activities of sauchinone in medicine. However, detailed preclinical and clinical data are still needed in scientific research to declare the therapeutic efficacy of sauchinone against human diseases.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease caused by a genetic alteration of the SERPING1 gene and characterized by recurrent attacks of angioedema that involve the skin, and the mucosae of the gastrointestinal tract and upper airways, which significantly affect the quality of life of patients. Nowadays there are effective drugs for both 1. treating acute attacks and 2. preventing attacks with a long-term prophylaxis. However, there are some unmet needs for HAE treatment, and therefore several novel molecules are under active testing for this clinical condition. Novel drugs will simplify the mode of administration (oral versus parenteral for both on demand treatment or long-term prophylaxis), prolong the interval between administrations (up to 3–6 months of efficacy with a single administration), target more specifically the central enzymes involved in the generation of bradykinin, the ultimate mediator of angioedema (prekallikrein, activated plasma kallikrein or activated factor XII), and potentially determine a definitive cure for the disease by genetic manipulation of the altered gene (SERPING1) or other downstream genes (KLKB1). In this review we provide a panoramic view of all new medications that are under active experimentation and will probably transform and enrich all of the therapeutic armamentarium for treating this disease.

PurposePaclitaxel (PTX) is one of the most potent and commonly used chemotherapies for breast and pancreatic cancer. Several ongoing clinical trials are investigating means of enhancing delivery of PTX across the blood-brain barrier for glioblastomas. Despite the widespread use of PTX for breast cancer, and the initiative to repurpose this drug for gliomas, there are no predictive biomarkers to inform which patients will likely benefit from this therapy.Experimental designTo identify predictive biomarkers for susceptibility to PTX, we performed a genome-wide CRISPR knockout (KO) screen using human glioma cells. The genes whose KO was most enriched in the CRISPR screen underwent further selection based on their correlation with survival in the breast cancer patient cohorts treated with PTX and not in patients treated with other chemotherapies, a finding that was validated on a second independent patient cohort using progression-free survival.ResultsCombination of CRISPR screen results with outcomes from patients with taxane-treated breast cancer led to the discovery of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) protein SSR3 as a putative predictive biomarker for PTX. SSR3 protein levels showed positive correlation with susceptibility to PTX in breast cancer cells, glioma cells, and in multiple intracranial glioma xenografts models. KO of SSR3 turned the cells resistant to PTX while its overexpression sensitized the cells to PTX. Mechanistically, SSR3 confers susceptibility to PTX through regulation of phosphorylation of ER stress sensor IRE1α.ConclusionsOur hypothesis generating study showed SSR3 as a putative biomarker for susceptibility to PTX, warranting its prospective clinical validation.

Objective: Where a person lives is a recognized socioeconomic determinant of health and influences healthcare access. This study aimed to compare the pain treatment profile of persons with chronic pain (CP) living in remote regions to those living in non-remote regions (near or in major urban centers). Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed among persons living with CP across Quebec. In a web-based questionnaire, participants were asked to report in which of the 17 administrative regions they were living (six considered "remote"). Pain treatment profile was drawn up using seven variables: use of prescribed pain medications, over-the-counter pain medications, nonpharmacological pain treatments, multimodal approach, access to a trusted healthcare professional for pain management, excessive polypharmacy (=10 medications), and use of cannabis for pain. Results: 1,399 participants completed the questionnaire (women: 83.4%, mean age: 50 years, living in remote regions: 23.8%). As compared to persons living in remote regions, those living in non-remote regions were more likely to report using prescribed pain medications (83.8% vs. 67.4%), a multimodal approach (81.5% vs. 75.5%), experience excessive polypharmacy (28.1% vs. 19.1%), and report using cannabis for pain (33.1% vs. 20.7%) (bivariable p < 0.05). Only the use of prescribed medications as well as cannabis remained significantly associated with the region of residence in the multivariable models. Discussion: There are differences in treatment profiles of persons with CP depending on the region they live. Our results highlight the importance of considering remoteness, and not only rurality, when it comes to better understanding the determinants of pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease caused by a genetic alteration of the SERPING1 gene and characterized by recurrent attacks of angioedema that involve the skin, and the mucosae of the gastrointestinal tract and upper airways, which significantly affect the quality of life of patients. Nowadays there are effective drugs for both 1. treating acute attacks and 2. preventing attacks with a long-term prophylaxis. However, there are some unmet needs for HAE treatment, and therefore several novel molecules are under active testing for this clinical condition. Novel drugs will simplify the mode of administration (oral versus parenteral for both on demand treatment or long-term prophylaxis), prolong the interval between administrations (up to 3–6 months of efficacy with a single administration), target more specifically the central enzymes involved in the generation of bradykinin, the ultimate mediator of angioedema (prekallikrein, activated plasma kallikrein or activated factor XII), and potentially determine a definitive cure for the disease by genetic manipulation of the altered gene (SERPING1) or other downstream genes (KLKB1). In this review we provide a panoramic view of all new medications that are under active experimentation and will probably transform and enrich all of the therapeutic armamentarium for treating this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ashwagandha is scientifically known as Withania somnifera (WS); a crucial medicinal plant reported in the Indian traditional medicinal system, Ayurveda. It possesses a diverse range of phytochemicals, making it abundant in bioactive compounds. Its bioactive substances are withanolides and alkaloids which play a crucial role in pharmacological actions. Owing to this, ashwagandha possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities to be shown including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-stress, immunomodulatory, reproductive stimulator, antioxidant, adaptogenic, neuroprotective, anti-aging, anti-diabetic, and endocrinological activities and among others. This review compiles the chemical composition and biological role of this wonderful medicinal plant in the treatment of various ailments. The combinatorial therapies of this plant extract with other bioactive compounds have been also addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fatigue following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex, chronic symptom, which can significantly impact quality of life. Investigation into the types of fatigue addressed by the multidisciplinary team and consequent outcomes may assist clinicians to target their care. The use of health frameworks to explore such phenomena may increase a teams' ability to incorporate multifaceted interventions. The objective of this paper is to profile and map the available evidence for fatigue management used for the TBI population onto the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health framework. Methods: A scoping review was conducted and included papers that described an intervention focussing on post-TBI fatigue and used fatigue-specific outcome measures with an adult population. Studies were collated and summarised, and key findings are presented. Results: Forty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. The results indicate that post-traumatic fatigue interventions in the literature are conducted by singular professions, that there is a strong focus on a body functions approach, and that there is a discrepancy between intervention intent and measurement. Conclusion: Although there is variety in multidisciplinary fatigue treatment, further opportunities to develop interventions that target other health and function components, including activities and participation, environment, and personal factors, may enable a greater impact of fatigue management approaches. Fatigue is one of the biggest problems for everyday life following a brain injury. There are some treatment approaches that have positive effects but these do not adopt the team approach that is promoted for brain injury rehabilitation. The findings highlight that further research is needed to develop, evaluate, and implement a team approach to fatigue that can reduce the impacts on everyday life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The colossal global burden of diabetes management is compounded by the serious complication of hypoglycemia. Protective physiologic hormonal and neurogenic counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia are essential to preserve glucose homeostasis and avert serious morbidity. With recurrent exposure to hypoglycemic episodes over time, these counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia can diminish, resulting in an impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH). IAH is characterized by sudden neuroglycopenia rather than preceding cautionary autonomic symptoms. IAH increases the risk of subsequent sudden and severe hypoglycemic episodes in patients with diabetes. The postulated causative mechanisms behind IAH are complex and varied. It is therefore challenging to identify a single effective therapeutic strategy. In this review, we closely examine the efficacy and feasibility of a myriad of pharmaceutical interventions in preventing and treating IAH as described in clinical and preclinical studies. Pharmaceutical agents outlined include N-acetyl cysteine, GABA A receptor blockers, opioid receptor antagonists, AMP activated protein kinase agonists, potassium channel openers, dehydroepiandrosterone, metoclopramide, antiadrenergic agents, antidiabetic agents and glucagon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia chebula, commonly known as black myrobalan, ink tree and Chebulic myrobalan is a deciduous tree belonging to the family Combretaceae. It is native to the tropical region with the highest occurrence in the South East Asian regions. The plant exhibits a wide spectrum of biological activity due to its phytochemicals such as polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, anthocyanins and glycosides. The fruit of T. chebula has been used in several traditional medicinal practices such as Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha for the treatment of different diseases and ailments including chronic diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, constipation, asthma, ulcer, haemorrhoids, cold and cough. The plant has been well reported in the current literature to possess anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-arthritic, anti-cancerous, anti-diabetic, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, hypo-cholesterolemic, anti-plasmodial, antinociceptive, antiulcerogenic and anti-spermatogenic properties. However, comprehensive reviews on the broad spectrum of bioactivity of this plant are limited in literature. Therefore, this review was designed to critically analyse and summarise the current ethno-medicinal and pharmacological evidence on T. chebula. Owing to its bioactivity, T. chebula possesses great potential to include in modern drug discovery. However, further pre-clinical and clinical studies are warranted for its prospective pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Auricularia contains mushrooms that are known for their edibility, ecological value; as decomposers and nutrient cycling. They also contain medically useful bioactive compounds; mostly polysaccharides with numerous pharmacological activities (antioxidant, anti-tumour, immunomodulatory, hypolipodemic, antidiabetic, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective etc.). They also contain nutritive compounds useful as nutraceuticals and are cultivated worldwide. We set out to update the collecting localities of Auricularia in Ghana with the view to extend the list of national occurrence. Field trips were made from August 2022 to July 2023 to Ashanti, Oti, Western North and Eastern Regions to record new localities of Auricularia. A desktop study collated the nutritional, medicinal and other bioactive compounds resident in the mushroom to assess potential for economic exploitation for health delivery. Morphological, anatomical and other characteristics of the fruiting bodies were determined to authenticate the samples obtained. Auricularia cornea was recorded for the first time on cocoa tree (Theobroma cacao) and cassava (Manihot esculenta L) sticks in Adansi North (Ashanti Region), Bowiri Amanfro and Bowiri Kyiriahi (Oti Region); Baakokrom, Sefwi Bekwai in the Bibiani-Anwhiaso Bekwai Municipality (Western North Region) as well as the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana-New Tafo Akim (Eastern Region). There are seven Auricularia (A. auricula-judae, A. delicata, A. fuscosuccinea, A. hunteri, A. mesenterica, A. polytricha and A. cornea) in Ghana. The morphometric, anatomical and other physical characteristics agree with the reported data in the pertinent literature for A. cornea. The plethora of bioactive, nutritive and pharmacologically useful ingredients of the basidiomata makes the mushroom a potential source of economic value and gives credence to its exploitation for health delivery in our developing economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the pharmacological implications of nutritional intervention and the occurrence of toxic side effects in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Methods: An extensive retrospective analysis of clinical data was carried out on individuals who received concurrent chemo-radiotherapy. 150 patients were included in the study, with 85 patients receiving nutritional management (intervention group) and 65 patients without nutritional support (control group). Assessments were conducted for Nutritional Risk Screening-2002 (NRS-2002) and patient-generated subjective global assessment (PG-SGA) scores, serum nutritional parameters, toxic side effects and treatment completion rates at 2, 4, and 6 weeks before and during chemo-radiotherapy. Results: After concurrent chemo-radiotherapy, intervention group exhibited significantly lower NRS-2002 and PG-SGA scores compared to control group (p = 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). Intervention group had a statistically significant increase in PALB (p = 0.001) and ALB, while control group experienced a significant decline in ALB (albumin) and PALB (pre-albumin) levels. Grip strength also significantly decreased in control group compared to intervention group (p = 0.003). Intervention group showed a significantly lower incidence of radiation esophagitis. Moreover, a smaller proportion of patients in intervention group experienced interruptions or delays in radiotherapy compared to control group (95 % vs. 83.3 %). Conclusion: Nutritional intervention has a pharmacological impact on maintaining nutritional status, reducing treatment toxicities and improving the completion rates of chemo-radiotherapy in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. Further investigations and longer-term studies are warranted to shed more light on the potential impact of nutritional interventions on the overall survival rates of these patients [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-parkinsonian, anti-microbial, analgesic, and anti-hyperglycemic properties of a variety of poly-fused pyrimidine derivatives. Methods: A novel series of fused pyrimidine derivatives 1-6 were synthesized by reacting amino pyrazole derivatives with active methylene derivatives to give the corresponding compounds 1-6. Anti-parkinsonian activity was investigated with benzotropene as a reference drug, anti-inflammatory effect in mice was evaluated using carrageenan in paw edema with indomethacin as reference drug, antimicrobial activity was assessed using nutritional agar with ciprofloxacin and ketoconazole as reference drugs, analgesic activity was evaluated using valdecoxib as reference drug, anti-hyperglycemic activity was investigated using alloxan and sucrose models (SLM) with pioglitazone as reference drug and anticancer activity was investigated using the MTT micro-cultured tetrazolium assay method with doxorubicin as reference drug. Results: Pyrimidine derivatives 1-6 possess significant active anti-parkinsonian, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-hyperglycemic and anticancer activities in comparison to the reference drugs used for each model. Compared to Benzotropene®, compounds 1 and 3 showed a significantly stronger anti-parkinsonian activity (p < 0.03). Compound 3 showed a significantly stronger anti-inflammatory effect than Indomethacin® (p < 0.05). Compounds 5 and 6 exhibited significant anti-microbial activity compared to ciprofloxacin® (p < 0.05). Compounds 4 and 6 exhibited significantly improved analgesic activity as compared to Valdecoxib® (p < 0.01). Compounds 1 and 3 exhibited significantly higher antihyperglycemic effects in SLM model when compared to pioglitazone® (p < 0.02). Compound 5 demonstrated the highest activity against human colon cancer cell line (HT-29) and human prostate cancer cell line (DU145), and also, significantly improved level of efficacy against human lung cancer cell line (A549) compared to Doxorubicin® (p < 0.02). Conclusion: Using the six pyrimidine derivatives 1 - 6 as a lead molecule, a novel class of clinically beneficial anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, analgesic, and anti-hyperglycemic drugs may be produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Millenary fermented beverages are a source of industrially important microorganisms. Aguamiel and pulque are traditional Mexican beverages of pre-Hispanic origin, with a microbial diversity that contributes to the different fermentations (lactic, alcoholic and acetic). The aim of this research was to characterize the Bacillus mojavensis (BF2A1) strain isolated from aguamiel and determine its probiotic potential. The strain was identified through Mass Spectrometry (MS), molecular techniques, as well as morphological and biochemical profiling. The probiotic activity of the BF2A1 strain and its response during the gastric simulation was determined. Results: The strain BF2A1 is a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacillus, positive for catalase, gammahemolysis, citrate, ornithine, grows at 7.5% NaCl, and acetoin, but negative for motility, indole, and methyl red. Its taxonomic identity was determined as B. mojavensis both by MALDI-TOF MS and sequencing of 16S rDNA. Its probiotic potential was demonstrated as BF2A1 was tolerant to pH 2 (OD620nm 0.2 89 ± 0.012), 0.3% bile salts (OD620nm 0.103 ± 0.089), 8% NaCl (OD620nm 0.254 ± 0.096), and 1% lysozyme (OD620nm 1.342 ± 0.078) compared to the probiotic strain Lactobacillus leichmannii ATCC 7830TM (Laclei). The antagonistic effect of BF2A1 against Escherichia coli (ATCC25922), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC25923), and Candida albicans (ATCC60193) showed 25.5%, 8% and, 65% inhibitory growing effect, respectively. BF2A1 in the gastric simulation showed only a reduction of 1-2 log CFU/mL and showed after the intestinal phase a survival rate of 84.4% as compared to the control strains. Conclusions: This study shows that BF2A1 isolated from aguamiel is a bacterium with probiotic properties that can be used in different areas of Biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fucoxanthin is a carotenoid present in brown seaweed and has been investigated for its potential to burn fat in addition to possessing the ability to treat anomalies arising out of glucose metabolism. Further it has been shown to provide other pharmacological actions including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, and other potential activities. Fucoxanthin serves as a functional food in several Asian countries due to its beneficial effects in human health. Over 35 million tonnes of seaweed are produced worldwide and Asian region accounts for 97% of the total production. Brown seaweed production is concentrated on 5 genera that account for > 95% of the world production: (one third from Laminaria/Saccharina) and red seaweed are the most predominant genera (one third from Kappaphycus/Eucheuma) and ~10% from Gracilaria). Although several reports are available on the utility, mechanism of pharmacologicalaction of the seaweeds, their utility in novel formulations and effect in neurodegenerative disorders is not investigated much. This review is an attempt to bring out the scope of fucoxanthin derived from brown seaweed in neurodegerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares diabetes management between pediatric and adult patients and identifies treatment challenges and gaps. We searched PubMed and Clinicaltrails.gov databases for studies published from 2001 to 2023 on diabetes management in different age groups. Research shows children have lower insulin sensitivity, clearance, and β cell function than adults. The US FDA only allows insulin, metformin, and liraglutide as antidiabetic medication options for children. However, some off-label drugs, like meglitinides, sulfonylureas, and alogliptin, have demonstrated positive results in treating certain types of diabetes caused by gene mutations. It's crucial to adopt personalized and precise approaches to managing diabetes in pediatrics, which vary from those used for adult patients. New studies support the classification of type 2 diabetes into several subtypes based on age, BMI, glycemia, homeostasis model estimates, varying insulin resistance, ‎different rates of complications‎, and islet ‎autoantibodies. With this insight, prevention, treatment, and precision medicine of diabetes might be changed. More research is necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of different antidiabetic drugs and improve diabetes treatment for children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In West Africa, healers greatly outnumber trained mental health professionals. People with serious mental illness (SMI) are often seen by healers in "prayer camps" where they may also experience human rights abuses. We developed "M&M," an 8-week-long dual-pronged intervention involving (1) a smartphone-delivered toolkit designed to expose healers to brief psychosocial interventions and encourage them to preserve human rights (M-Healer app), and (2) a visiting nurse who provides medications to their patients (Mobile Nurse). Objective: We examined the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and preliminary effectiveness of the M&M intervention in real-world prayer camp settings. Methods: We conducted a single-arm field trial of M&M with people with SMI and healers at a prayer camp in Ghana. Healers were provided smartphones with M-Healer installed and were trained by practice facilitators to use the digital toolkit. In parallel, a study nurse visited their prayer camp to administer medications to their patients. Clinical assessors administered study measures to participants with SMI at pretreatment (baseline), midtreatment (4 weeks) and post treatment (8 weeks). Results: Seventeen participants were enrolled and most (n=15, 88.3%) were retained. Participants had an average age of 44.3 (SD 13.9) years and 59% (n=10) of them were male. Fourteen (82%) participants had a diagnosis of schizophrenia and 2 (18%) were diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Four healers were trained to use M-Healer. On average, they self-initiated app use 31.9 (SD 28.9) times per week. Healers watched an average of 19.1 (SD 21.2) videos, responded to 1.5 (SD 2.4) prompts, and used the app for 5.3 (SD 2.7) days weekly. Pre-post analyses revealed a significant and clinically meaningful reduction in psychiatric symptom severity (Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale score range 52.3 to 30.9; Brief Symptom Inventory score range 76.4 to 27.9), psychological distress (Talbieh Brief Distress Inventory score range 37.7 to 16.9), shame (Other as Shamer Scale score range 41.9 to 28.5), and stigma (Brief Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Scale score range 11.8 to 10.3). We recorded a significant reduction in days chained (1.6 to 0.5) and a promising trend for reduction in the days of forced fasting (2.6 to 0.0, P=.06). We did not identify significant pre-post changes in patient-reported working alliance with healers (Working Alliance Inventory), depressive symptom severity (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), quality of life (Lehman Quality of Life Interview for the Mentally Ill), beliefs about medication (Beliefs about Medications Questionnaire--General Harm subscale), or other human rights abuses. No major side effects, health and safety violations, or serious adverse events occurred over the course of the trial. Conclusions: The M&M intervention proved to be feasible, acceptable, safe, and clinically promising. Preliminary findings suggest that the M-Healer toolkit may have shifted healers' behaviors at the prayer camp so that they commit fewer human rights abuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical investigations are increasingly focusing on natural materials with medical benefits because, in contrast to medicines, they have extremely few adverse effects. Tinospora species of the Menispermaceae family has many bioactive principles for plant nutraceuticals. A thorough assessment of the existing literature revealed that Indian Tinospora species are an important group of medicinal herbs used for a variety of pharmacological activities. While, Tinospora cordifolia is widely recognized as a significant herb in the Indian System of Medicines (ISM) due to its bioactive components and has been used in the treatment of diabetes, cancer, urinary problems, fever, jaundice, helminthiasis, leprosy, dysentery, skin diseases, and many more.Using the search phrases “phytochemistry,” “traditional uses,” and “pharmacological evaluation of Indian Tinospora species,” appropriate articles were carefully extracted from the MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and WOS databases. Around 180 articles, related to the India Tinospora species, were selected from a pool of 200 papers published between 1991 and 2023. T. cordifolia has received a lot of scientific attention because of its diverse therapeutic characteristics in treating various diseases. Our present study in this review encompasses 1.) Phytochemistry, traditional uses and pharmacological potential of T. cordifolia as well as other Indian Tinospora species. 2.) Safety and toxicity study and available marketed formulation of T. cordifolia for the treatment of various diseases.The chemical constitution and pharmacological characteristics of other Tinospora species must also be investigated, indicating a need for further scientific research.

Introduction: Ficus pumila and Phtirusa stelis are emerging as a source of natural products. Objectives: Identify the families of chemical compounds present in the species to be studied. Determine the antibacterial and antifungal activity of the crude extracts of F. pumila and P. stelis. Assess the toxicity of the crude extracts of the species against Artemia sp. Determine effects on Aedes aegypti larvae and. Methods: We evaluated the bioactivity of ethanolic, and isopropyl extracts obtained from the fruits, leaves and stems of both species were evaluated for antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, toxic activity against Artemia sp, A. aegypti larvae and phytochemical study. Results: We identificated flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols in isopropyl and ethanol extracts of leaves, stems and fruits of F. pumila. We detected flavonoids, tannins, anthraquinones, triterpenes, and polyphenols in isopropyl and ethanol extracts of stems and leaves of P. stelis. We detected flavonoids, tannins, anthraquinones, triterpenes, and polyphenols in isopropyl and ethanol extracts of stems and leaves of P. stelis. F. pumila, the isopropyl stem extract demonstrated the most effective activity, since it exerted antibacterial activity, with inhibition halos being observed on B. subtilis (10 mm) and E. coli (7 mm), while the ethanolic extract of the leaves showed effect on Staphylococcus aureus (11 mm). The ethanolic extract of P. stelis leaves exhibited activity against S. aureus (10 mm), B. subtilis (10 mm) and that of stem extract showed similar results with inhibition zone of halos of 11 and 10 mm, respectively. The isopropyl extract of leaves also displayed activity against E. coli (15 mm). None of the extracts from F. pumila and P. stelis, showed any growth inhibitory effect against the pathogenic fungi. The majority of P. stelis extracts showed positive LC results against Artemia sp., with the ethanolic leaf extract exhibiting high toxicity (0,01 µg/mL). The isopropyl leaf extract also showed high toxicity (0,01 µg/mL), as did the isopropyl stem extract (0,02 µg/mL). The ethanolic and isopropyl extracts of F. pumila and P. stelis did not show toxicity to Aedes aegypti larvae. Conclusion: The plant species F. pumila and P. stelis, can be considered as sources of important and promising compounds for therapeutic research. These plants have shown potential in various studies, and further research could lead to the discovery of new treatments and therapies.

Our survey was carried out at the level of 17 Municipalities of the Province of Skikda. Questionnaire sheets were distributed to 55 herbalists and 350 locale population (informants). The processing of survey data with the local population shows us that women (52 %) have more knowledge of phytotherapy compared to men (48 %) with a fairly high level of education. For the herbalists, we found that most are men (85.45 %) aged between 31-40 years (29.09 %) and 41-50 years (25.45 %), and with level of university study (36.36 %). On the other hand, 52.73 % of herbalists said they inherited their knowledge from their families and only 20 % of them were trained in institutes. From a pharmacological point of view, the leaves are the most used part of the plant (81.76 %), prepared in the form of different recipes generally intended for local use (66.65 %), while some plants can be used alone, or with honey and olive oil. Regarding the diversity of species, we have identified 24 antihemorrhagic species among them the most cited are; Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter. (Asteraceae) (137 citations), Chamaecytisus triflorus (Lam.) Skalická (Fabaceae) (81 citations) and Angelica archangelica L. (Apiaceae) (72 citations). Finally, this study is interesting and forms a starting point for researchers and must be completed by in vitro and in vivo antihemorrhagic tests.