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Introduction: Medicinal plants and their substances are used as adjunctive therapies for a range of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Syzygium aromaticum and Persea americana, in particular, have demonstrated beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, in the management of inflammation. Although the extracts from these plants have been assessed in research, the possibility of combining them to synthesise a mouthwash and evaluate its effectiveness has not yet been investigated. Aim: To evaluate the combined anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of a mouthwash formulation based on the extensively nutritious avocado fruit (Persea americana) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum). Materials and Methods: This in-vitro investigation was carried out in the Oral Pathology and Microbiology Department at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, between December 2021 and July 2022. A mouthwash was formulated with extracts from clove and avocado fruit, and its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties were evaluated using Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) denaturation and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. Microsoft Excel was utilised for data collection, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 with independent t-tests was used for statistical analysis. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The anti-inflammatory activity of the prepared mouthwash based on P. americana and Syzygium aromaticum at a concentration of 50 μL (86.62% inhibition) was comparable to that of the standard drug (diclofenac sodium) (84.82% inhibition); however, its antioxidant properties were significantly lower. Conclusion: The mouthwash synthesised from the edible part of P. americana in conjunction with Syzygium aromaticum exhibited superior anti-inflammatory properties, with the highest activity observed at a concentration of 50 μL. Therefore, the prepared formulation could be used for managing minor inflammatory conditions.

This review provides an overview of cannabis-based phytocannabinoids, focusing on their mechanisms of action, therapeutic applications, and production processes, along with the environmental factors that affect their quality and efficacy. Phytocannabinoids such as THC (∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and CBC (cannabichromene) exhibit significant therapeutic potential in treating various physical and mental health conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, skin disorders, and anxiety. The cultivation of cannabis plays a crucial role in determining cannabinoid profiles, with indoor cultivation offering more control and consistency than outdoor methods. Environmental factors such as light, water, temperature, humidity, nutrient management, CO2, and the drying method used are key to optimizing cannabinoid content in inflorescences. This review outlines the need for broader data transfer between the health industry and technological production, especially in terms of what concentration and cannabinoid ratios are effective in treatment. Such data transfer would provide cultivators with information on what environmental parameters should be manipulated to obtain the required final product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medicinal plants and their substances are used as adjunctive therapies for a range of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Syzygium aromaticum and Persea americana, in particular, have demonstrated beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, in the management of inflammation. Although the extracts from these plants have been assessed in research, the possibility of combining them to synthesise a mouthwash and evaluate its effectiveness has not yet been investigated. Aim: To evaluate the combined anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of a mouthwash formulation based on the extensively nutritious avocado fruit (Persea americana) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum). Materials and Methods: This in-vitro investigation was carried out in the Oral Pathology and Microbiology Department at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, between December 2021 and July 2022. A mouthwash was formulated with extracts from clove and avocado fruit, and its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties were evaluated using Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) denaturation and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. Microsoft Excel was utilised for data collection, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 with independent t-tests was used for statistical analysis. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The anti-inflammatory activity of the prepared mouthwash based on P. americana and Syzygium aromaticum at a concentration of 50 µL (86.62% inhibition) was comparable to that of the standard drug (diclofenac sodium) (84.82% inhibition); however, its antioxidant properties were significantly lower. Conclusion: The mouthwash synthesised from the edible part of P. americana in conjunction with Syzygium aromaticum exhibited superior anti-inflammatory properties, with the highest activity observed at a concentration of 50 µL. Therefore, the prepared formulation could be used for managing minor inflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: Albumin is commonly used for various indications; however, there is conflicting data regarding its appropriate use in different clinical cases. This study aimed to determine the pattern and appropriateness of albumin use among cancer patients at the King Hussein Cancer Center in Jordan. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on adult cancer patients who were prescribed albumin between January 2019 and July 2020 in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Data collected included demographics, prescribing services, indications and dosing regimens. A literature review was performed using PubMed to assess the appropriateness of albumin indications and dosing regimens against current guidelines, drug information resources and the package insert. Results: Albumin was prescribed to 1,361 patients during the study period. Each patient received an average of 74.4 ± 89 g of albumin for an average of 2.6 ± 1.8 days. Albumin use was deemed appropriate in 69% of the patients. The critical care service accounted for the highest albumin consumption, with 37% of prescriptions for septic shock. Inappropriate use of albumin was most prevalent in the medical solid tumour services (40.8% of prescriptions), primarily for edema (28%). Conclusion: To the best of the author's knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate albumin use in a large cohort of oncology patients. Approximately one-third of the albumin prescriptions were considered inappropriate. Continuous education on appropriate usage and regular evaluations of guideline adherence are essential to ensure proper utilisation of albumin in cancer care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared short-term effectiveness of proton pump inhibitors (PPI), swallowed topical corticosteroids (STC), and dietary therapies in reversing clinical and histological features in pediatric patients with eosinophilic esophagitits (EoE). Determinants for treatment choice and PPI therapy effectiveness were also assessed. A cross-sectional study analysis of patients under 18 years old recruited onto the multicenter EoE CONNECT registry was performed. Clinico-histological response was defined as symptomatic improvement plus a peak eosinophil count below 15 per high-power field after treatment. Effectiveness of first-line options used in monotherapy was compared. Overall, 393 patients (64% adolescents) receiving PPI, STC, or dietary monotherapy to induce EoE remission were identified. PPI was the preferred option (71.5%), despite STC providing the highest clinico-histological response rates (66%) compared to PPI (44%) and diet (42%). Logistic regression identified fibrotic features and recruitment at Italian sites independently associated to first-line STC treatment; age under 12 associated to dietary therapy over other options. Analysis of 262 patients in whom PPI effectiveness was evaluated after median (IQR) 96 (70–145) days showed that this effectiveness was significantly associated with management at pediatric facilities and use of high PPI doses. Among PPI responders, decrease in rings and structures in endoscopy from baseline was documented, with EREFS fibrotic subscore for rings also decreasing among responders (0.27 ± 0.63 vs. 0.05 ± 0.22, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Initial therapy choice for EoE depends on endoscopic phenotype, patient's age, and patients' origin. High PPI doses and treatment in pediatric facilities significantly determined effectiveness, and reversed fibrotic endoscopic features among responders. What is Known: • Proton pump inhibitors are widely used to induce and maintain remission in EoE in real practice, despite other first-line alternative therapies possibly providing higher effectiveness. What is New: • Proton pump inhibitors represent up to two-thirds of first-line monotherapies used to induce EoE remission in pediatric and adolescent patients with EoE. The choice of STC as first-line treatment for EoE was significantly associated with fibrotic features at baseline endoscopy and recruitment in Italian centers; age less than 12 years was associated with dietary therapy. • PPI effectiveness was found to be determined by use of high doses, attendance at pediatric facilities, presenting inflammatory instead of fibrotic or mixed phenotypes, and younger age. Among responders, PPI therapy reversed both inflammatory and fibrotic features of EoE after short-term treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Anal contact or conduction in the anal canal and rectum is a common condition in the coloproctological field, occurring in 5% of the population that affects this country. Treatment consists of hygiene and the use of topical steroids, antibacterial and antifungal agents. No generally accepted attitude towards a private person has been developed.Aim. To study the effectiveness of using homeopathic ointment in the treatment of patients with anal itching.Material and methods. A prospective comparative randomized study was conducted in a specialized advisory center of the Clinics of Samara State Medical University. The study included 96 patients with anal itching without fungal infection of the perianal skin and concomitant purulent pathology. In the main group (n = 46), treatment was carried out using homeopathic ointment in the perianal area 2–3 times a day for 14 days. In the control group (n = 50), treatment was carried out with topical steroid ointments 2–3 times a day for 14 days.Results and discussion. From the data obtained on the use of homeopathic ointment, it follows that it is not inferior in effectiveness to topical steroid ointments in reducing symptoms of the disease (Student’s t-test = 0.35; p > 0.05 and Student’s t-test = 0.28; p > 0.05), and by the number of relapses (χ2 = 0.535; p > 0.05).Conclusion. The use of homeopathic ointment for topical application appears to be a promising new treatment for patients with anal itching and is as effective as topical steroid ointments.

The accumulation of the small 42‐residue long peptide amyloid‐β (Aβ) has been proposed as a major trigger for the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Within the brain, the concentration of Aβ peptide is tightly controlled through production and clearance mechanisms. Substantial experimental evidence now shows that reduced levels of Aβ clearance are present in individuals living with AD. This accumulation of Aβ can lead to the formation of large aggregated amyloid plaques—one of two detectable hallmarks of the disease. Aβ‐degrading enzymes (ADEs) are major players in the clearance of Aβ. Stimulating ADE activity or expression, in order to compensate for the decreased clearance in the AD phenotype, provides a promising therapeutic target. It has been reported in mice that upregulation of ADEs can reduce the levels of Aβ peptide and amyloid plaques—in some cases, this led to improved cognitive function. Among several known ADEs, neprilysin (NEP), endothelin‐converting enzyme‐1 (ECE‐1), insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) and angiotensin‐1 converting enzyme (ACE) from the zinc metalloprotease family have been identified as important. These ADEs have the capacity to digest soluble Aβ which, in turn, cannot form the toxic oligomeric species. While they are known for their amyloid degradation, they exhibit complexity through promiscuous nature and a broad range of substrates that they can degrade. This review highlights current structural and functional understanding of these key ADEs, giving some insight into the molecular interactions that leads to the hydrolysis of peptide substrates, the crucial tasks performed by them and the potential for therapeutic use in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease and chronic inflammatory disorder that affects joints and causes inflammation, pain, stiffness, and eventually progressive joint destruction. Approximately 1% of the world's population is estimated to suffer from RA, and if this disease is left untreated, it can lead to severe disability. Despite all the efforts and advances made by professionals in the field, there is currently no definitive treatment for RA, and most treatment strategies are aimed at relieving symptoms and improving patients' quality of life. One of the most promising current approaches is the use of recombinant proteins that target specific signaling pathways involved in the development of RA to alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. This article discusses the genetic and immunological factors that influence the development of RA, recombinant proteins, methods of using these proteins, approved drugs, and side effects associated with treating RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) have been investigated as a potential treatment for hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low testosterone levels in men. The idea is to provide therapeutic benefits similar to traditional testosterone replacement therapy. However, research in this area is still in its early stages, and more extensive studies are needed to establish the efficacy of SARM. This study aimed to determine the impact of SARM RAD140 on testosterone levels, fibromuscular stroma, and prostate mass in rats undergoing bilateral orchidectomy. METHODS This was an in vivo study using posttest-only control group design in rats (Rattus norvegicus). The positive and negative control groups consisted of rats with and without bilateral orchidectomy, respectively. The treatment groups were rats given SARM RAD140 with and without orchidectomy. Testosterone levels, histopathology, and prostate mass were examined at the end of week 6, and the quantitative data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS This study found no difference in prostate mass (0.598 [0.05] g versus 0.590 [0.07] g, p = 0.984), fibromuscular stroma ratio (0.483 [0.094] versus 0.463 [0.057], p = 0.984), and testosterone level (0.006 [0.005] ng/dl versus 0.014 [0.004] ng/dl, p = 0.098) compared to positive control with orchidectomy and SARM RAD140 administration 6 weeks after treatment. CONCLUSIONS There were no differences in testosterone levels, prostate mass, or the ratio of fibromuscular stroma to epithelium area in rats undergoing bilateral orchidectomy and placebo surgery with the administration of SARM RAD140. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Febrile neutropenia represents a critical oncologic emergency, and its management is pivotal in cancer therapy. In several guidelines, the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in patients with chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenia is not routinely recommended except in high-risk cases. The Japan Society of Clinical Oncology has updated its clinical practice guidelines for the use of G-CSF, incorporating a systematic review to address this clinical question. Methods: The systematic review was conducted by performing a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Ichushi-Web, focusing on publications from January 1990 to December 2019. Selected studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs, and cohort and case–control studies. Evaluated outcomes included overall survival, infection-related mortality, hospitalization duration, quality of life, and pain. Results: The initial search yielded 332 records. Following two rounds of screening, two records were selected for both qualitative and quantitative synthesis including meta-analysis. Regarding infection-related mortality, the event to case ratio was 5:134 (3.73%) in the G-CSF group versus 6:129 (4.65%) in the non-G-CSF group, resulting in a relative risk of 0.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.27–2.58; p = 0.54), which was not statistically significant. Only median values for hospitalization duration were available from the two RCTs, precluding a meta-analysis. For overall survival, quality of life, and pain, no suitable studies were found for analysis, rendering their assessment unfeasible. Conclusion: A weak recommendation is made that G-CSF treatment not be administered to patients with febrile neutropenia during cancer chemotherapy. G-CSF treatment can be considered for patients at high risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panax notoginseng is a perennial plant well known for its versatile medicinal properties, including hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, estrogen-like, and antidepressant characteristics. It has been reported that plant age affects the quality of P. notoginseng. This study aimed to explore the differential metabolome and transcriptome of 2-year (PN2) and 3-year-old (PN3) P. notoginseng plant root samples. Principal component analysis of metabolome and transcriptome data revealed major differences between the two groups (PN2 vs. PN3). A total of 1813 metabolites and 28,587 genes were detected in this study, of which 255 metabolites and 3141 genes were found to be differential (p < 0.05) between PN2 vs. PN3, respectively. Among differential metabolites and genes, 155 metabolites and 1217 genes were up-regulated, while 100 metabolites and 1924 genes were down-regulated. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed differentially enriched metabolites belonging to class lipids ("13S-hydroperoxy-9Z, 11E-octadecadionic acid", "9S-hydroxy-10E, 12Z-octadecadionic acid", "9S-oxo-10E, 12Z-octadecadionic acid", and "9,10,13-trihydroxy-11-octadecadionic acid"), nucleotides and derivatives (guanine and cytidine), and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid) were found to be enriched (p < 0.05) in PN3 compared to PN2. Further, these differentially enriched metabolites were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) regulated via linoleic acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathways. Furthermore, the transcriptome analysis showed the up-regulation of key genes MAT, DMAS, SDH, gallate 1-beta-glucosyltransferase, and beta-D-glucosidase in various plants' secondary metabolic pathways and SAUR, GID1, PP2C, ETR, CTR1, EBF1/2, and ERF1/2 genes observed in phytohormone signal transduction pathway that is involved in plant growth and development, and protection against the various stressors. This study concluded that the roots of a 3-year-old P. notoginseng plant have better metabolome and transcriptome profiles compared to a 2-year-old plant with importantly enriched metabolites and genes in pathways related to metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, and various biological processes. These findings provide insights into the plant's dynamic biochemical and molecular changes during its growth that have several implications regarding its therapeutic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite a range of available treatments, it is still sometimes challenging to treat patients with severe post-partum hemorrhage (sPPH). Objective: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of recombinant activated factor VIIa (rFVIIa) in sPPH management. Methods: An open-label, multi-center, randomized controlled trial (RCT; NCT00370877) and four observational studies (OS; OS-1 (NCT04723979), OS-2, OS-3, and OS-4) were analyzed regarding efficacy (need for subsequent invasive procedures, including uterine compression sutures, uterine or iliac artery ligations, arterial embolization, or hysterectomy) and safety (incidence of thromboembolic events (TE) and maternal mortality) of rFVIIa for sPPH. The RCT, and OS-1 and OS-2, included a control group of women who did not receive rFVIIa (with propensity score-matching used in OS-1 and OS-2), whereas OS-3 and OS-4 provided descriptive data for rFVIIa-exposed women only. Results: A total of 446 women exposed to rFVIIa and 1717 non-exposed controls were included. In the RCT, fewer rFVIIa-exposed women (50% [21/42]) had an invasive procedure versus non-exposed women (91% [38/42]; odds ratio: 0.11; 95% confidence interval: 0.03–0.35). In OS-1, more rFVIIa-exposed women (58% [22/38]) had an invasive procedure versus non-exposed women (35% [13.3/38]; odds ratio: 2.46; 95% confidence interval: 1.06–5.99). In OS-2, 17% (3/18) of rFVIIa-exposed women and 32% (5.6/17.8) of non-exposed women had an invasive procedure (odds ratio: 0.33; 95% confidence interval: 0.03–1.75). Across all included women, TEs occurred in 1.5% (0.2% arterial and 1.2% venous) of rFVIIa-exposed women and 1.6% (0.2% arterial and 1.4% venous) of non-exposed women with available data. Conclusions: The positive treatment effect of rFVIIa on the RCT was not confirmed in the OS. However, the safety analysis did not show any increased incidence of TEs with rFVIIa treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Medicinal plants play a crucial role in maintaining human health and contain various phytochemical compounds recognized as therapeutic active agents. The long history of human use of medicinal plants indicates that these natural sources possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and antioxidant properties. The important advantages of medicinal plants include alleviating symptoms of diseases, enhancing the immune system, and even preventing certain illnesses. Additionally, the use of various medicinal plants as an alternative or complementary approach to conventional treatments can contribute to reducing side effects and toxicities associated with chemical drugs. Therefore, further research in understanding and utilizing medicinal plants has the potential to lead to the development of innovative therapeutic methods and improve overall public health. Curcumin, the main active polyphenol component derived from Curcuma longa, can be used as a supplement to treat liver disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, infertility, and cancers. The therapeutic effects of curcumin consist of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties through direct and indirect modulation mechanisms of molecules and signaling pathways of genes involved in disease pathogenesis. Curcumin affects the expression of inflammatory cytokines, interleukins, growth factors, enzymes, adhesion molecules, transcription factors, and apoptotic proteins. In this study, a collection of reviews and research articles were searched from Internet databases and entered into the study until 2024. This study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of curcumin signaling pathways and clinical evidence related to its effects on the treatment of various diseases. Materials and methods: In this study, related materials and research resources have been prepared and compiled from library studies from Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Google Scholar databases in the last 20 years. Keywords of Curcumin, metabolism, therapeutic benefits, pharmacokinetics, signaling pathway, inflammation, and growth factors were searched in different databases. Then, the sources were evaluated and the obtained results were summarized and reported. Results: A wide range of studies have reported positive results about the use of curcumin in reducing the symptoms of cancers, arthritis, allergies, atherosclerosis, neurogenic diseases, liver cirrhosis, obesity, psoriasis, and autoimmune diseases and delaying the aging process. In general, curcumin can be used as a supplement besides chemical drugs. Curcumin reduces inflammatory responses and its anti-inflammatory effect is comparable to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Conclusion: Medicinal plants are very diverse and can be used to treat various diseases. Further research in the field of herbal medicines can lead to a better understanding of their effects and applications and be effective in creating new medicines. According to the current research, it seems that curcumin with multiple abilities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer, can play an effective role in the process of preventing and treating some diseases. However, more studies and clinical research are needed to more accurately evaluate the long-term effects and safety of curcumin consumption. In the future, the exploration of medicinal plants holds promising prospects for the development of novel therapeutic interventions, as ongoing scientific research continues to unveil the intricate bioactive compounds and molecular mechanisms underlying their medicinal properties, paving the way for innovative pharmaceutical applications and enhanced healthcare solutions.

Abstract Background Take-home buprenorphine/naloxone is an effective method of initiating opioid agonist therapy in the Emergency Department (ED) that requires ED healthcare worker buy-in for large-scale implementation. We aimed to investigate healthcare workers perceptions of ED take-home buprenorphine/naloxone, as well as barriers and facilitators from an ED healthcare worker perspective. Methods In the context of a take-home buprenorphine/naloxone feasibility study at a tertiary care teaching hospital we conducted a descriptive qualitative study. We conducted one-on-one in person or telephone interviews and focus groups with ED healthcare workers who cared for patients given take-home buprenorphine/naloxone in the feasibility study at Vancouver General Hospital from July 2019 to March 2020. We conducted 37 healthcare worker interviews from December 2019 to July 2020. We audio recorded interviews and focus groups and transcribed them verbatim. We completed interviews until we reached thematic saturation. Data analysis We inductively coded a sample of transcripts to generate a provisional coding structure and to identify emerging themes, which were reviewed by our multidisciplinary team. We then used the final coding structure to analyze the transcripts. We present our findings descriptively. Results Participants identified a number of context-specific facilitators and barriers to take-home buprenorphine/naloxone provision in the ED. Participants highlighted ED conditions having either facilitative or prohibitive effects: provision of buprenorphine/naloxone was feasible when ED volume was low and space was available but became less so as ED volume increased and space decreased. Similarly, participants noted that patient-related factors could have a facilitative or prohibitive effect, such as willingness to wait (willing to stay in the ED for study-related activities and buprenorphine/naloxone initiation activities), receptiveness to buprenorphine/naloxone, and comprehension of the instructions. As for staff-related factors, time was identified as a consistent barrier. Time included time available and time required to initiate buprenorphine/naloxone (including time building rapport). Healthcare worker familiarity with buprenorphine/naloxone was noted as either a facilitating factor or a barrier, and healthcare workers indicated that ongoing training would have been advantageous. Many healthcare workers identified that the ED is an important first point of contact for the target patient population. Conclusion Integrating a buprenorphine/naloxone program into ED care requires organizational supports (e.g., for managing buprenorphine/naloxone within limitations of ED volume, space, and time), and ongoing education of healthcare workers to minimize identified barriers.

Background and purpose: Medicinal plants play a crucial role in maintaining human health and contain various phytochemical compounds recognized as therapeutic active agents. The long history of human use of medicinal plants indicates that these natural sources possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and antioxidant properties. The important advantages of medicinal plants include alleviating symptoms of diseases, enhancing the immune system, and even preventing certain illnesses. Additionally, the use of various medicinal plants as an alternative or complementary approach to conventional treatments can contribute to reducing side effects and toxicities associated with chemical drugs. Therefore, further research in understanding and utilizing medicinal plants has the potential to lead to the development of innovative therapeutic methods and improve overall public health. Curcumin, the main active polyphenol component derived from Curcuma longa, can be used as a supplement to treat liver disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, infertility, and cancers. The therapeutic effects of curcumin consist of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties through direct and indirect modulation mechanisms of molecules and signaling pathways of genes involved in disease pathogenesis. Curcumin affects the expression of inflammatory cytokines, interleukins, growth factors, enzymes, adhesion molecules, transcription factors, and apoptotic proteins. In this study, a collection of reviews and research articles were searched from Internet databases and entered into the study until 2024. This study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of curcumin signaling pathways and clinical evidence related to its effects on the treatment of various diseases. Materials and methods: In this study, related materials and research resources have been prepared and compiled from library studies from Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, and Google Scholar databases in the last 20 years. Keywords of Curcumin, metabolism, therapeutic benefits, pharmacokinetics, signaling pathway, inflammation, and growth factors were searched in different databases. Then, the sources were evaluated and the obtained results were summarized and reported. Results: A wide range of studies have reported positive results about the use of curcumin in reducing the symptoms of cancers, arthritis, allergies, atherosclerosis, neurogenic diseases, liver cirrhosis, obesity, psoriasis, and autoimmune diseases and delaying the aging process. In general, curcumin can be used as a supplement besides chemical drugs. Curcumin reduces inflammatory responses and its anti-inflammatory effect is comparable to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Conclusion: Medicinal plants are very diverse and can be used to treat various diseases. Further research in the field of herbal medicines can lead to a better understanding of their effects and applications and be effective in creating new medicines. According to the current research, it seems that curcumin with multiple abilities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer, can play an effective role in the process of preventing and treating some diseases. However, more studies and clinical research are needed to more accurately evaluate the long-term effects and safety of curcumin consumption. In the future, the exploration of medicinal plants holds promising prospects for the development of novel therapeutic interventions, as ongoing scientific research continues to unveil the intricate bioactive compounds and molecular mechanisms underlying their medicinal properties, paving the way for innovative pharmaceutical applications and enhanced healthcare solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista ADM is the property of Asociacion Dental Mexicana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Take-home buprenorphine/naloxone is an effective method of initiating opioid agonist therapy in the Emergency Department (ED) that requires ED healthcare worker buy-in for large-scale implementation. We aimed to investigate healthcare workers perceptions of ED take-home buprenorphine/naloxone, as well as barriers and facilitators from an ED healthcare worker perspective. Methods: In the context of a take-home buprenorphine/naloxone feasibility study at a tertiary care teaching hospital we conducted a descriptive qualitative study. We conducted one-on-one in person or telephone interviews and focus groups with ED healthcare workers who cared for patients given take-home buprenorphine/naloxone in the feasibility study at Vancouver General Hospital from July 2019 to March 2020. We conducted 37 healthcare worker interviews from December 2019 to July 2020. We audio recorded interviews and focus groups and transcribed them verbatim. We completed interviews until we reached thematic saturation. Data analysis: We inductively coded a sample of transcripts to generate a provisional coding structure and to identify emerging themes, which were reviewed by our multidisciplinary team. We then used the final coding structure to analyze the transcripts. We present our findings descriptively. Results: Participants identified a number of context-specific facilitators and barriers to take-home buprenorphine/naloxone provision in the ED. Participants highlighted ED conditions having either facilitative or prohibitive effects: provision of buprenorphine/naloxone was feasible when ED volume was low and space was available but became less so as ED volume increased and space decreased. Similarly, participants noted that patient-related factors could have a facilitative or prohibitive effect, such as willingness to wait (willing to stay in the ED for study-related activities and buprenorphine/naloxone initiation activities), receptiveness to buprenorphine/naloxone, and comprehension of the instructions. As for staff-related factors, time was identified as a consistent barrier. Time included time available and time required to initiate buprenorphine/naloxone (including time building rapport). Healthcare worker familiarity with buprenorphine/naloxone was noted as either a facilitating factor or a barrier, and healthcare workers indicated that ongoing training would have been advantageous. Many healthcare workers identified that the ED is an important first point of contact for the target patient population. Conclusion: Integrating a buprenorphine/naloxone program into ED care requires organizational supports (e.g., for managing buprenorphine/naloxone within limitations of ED volume, space, and time), and ongoing education of healthcare workers to minimize identified barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infantile hemangioma is a common benign vascular tumor that affects up to 10% of infants. Propranolol, a beta-blocker, has been used as a promising treatment for infantile hemangioma, but its effectiveness remains controversial. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of propranolol in the treatment of infantile hemangioma in Erbil, Iraq.Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted between May 2021 and December 2022 at Rapareen Teaching Hospital in Erbil, Iraq. A total of 42 children entered the study, considering the inclusion criteria. Propranolol was given at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day and increased to 2-3 mg/kg/day within a few days if tolerated. Infants were treated and followed up for 3 to 6 months. During this follow-up, the infants were checked for cardiac, respiratory, and hypoglycemic symptoms. The obtained data were analyzed using paired, independent, and chi-square tests.Results: The mean age of the infants was 11.48 ± 5.251 months. Regarding the gender distribution of the participants, 14 (33.3%) of the infants were males and 28 (66.7%) were females. Hemangiomas were observed in different body regions, including 6(14.3%) cases in the limbs, 28 (66.7%) in the head and neck, and 8 (19%) in the trunk. Regarding the response to treatment, the results revealed that 27 (64.3%) infants responded well to the treatment. There was a moderate response in 9 (21.4%) infants and a mild response in 6 (14.3%) infants.Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, propranolol can be used as an effective and safe drug for hemangioma treatment.

Abstract The purpose of this review is to report on the perioperative uses of intravenous (IV) ketamine based on literature from the last five years (2018–2022). We searched MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed databases from 1st January 2018 till 15th September 2022. We primarily reviewed randomized control trials and systematic reviews with or without meta-analyses where IV ketamine was used as part of an anesthetic regimen perioperatively for general or regional anesthesia. We included studies with both pediatric and/or adult participants. We did not examine the quality of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in our review. Perioperative IV ketamine consistently reduced postoperative opioid requirement especially in the early postoperative period, however, the duration of this effect was variable in different surgeries and patient populations. This effect was seen in breast, obstetric, bariatric, and orthopedic surgeries. The effect was minimal in pediatric and thoracic surgeries. It has a valuable role in multi-modal analgesic regimen, especially in orthopedic and spine procedures. Considerable heterogeneity was noted with regards to the dosage of IV ketamine. Bolus doses ranged from 0.15 to 1 mg·kg−1 and infusion doses ranged from 2 to 5 ug·kg−1·min−1. Its role in prevention of chronic post-surgical pain is still under investigation. Intravenous ketamine also reduced postoperative depressive symptoms in specific patient populations. It also reduced shivering associated with spinal anesthesia. It has a potential role in prevention of emergence agitation and postoperative delirium. In conclusion, IV ketamine has a versatile range of beneficial clinical effects in perioperative practice. The most widely studied are its analgesic effects which are of variable intensity amongst different surgical specialties and subset of patients. Despite its long history of use, fresh uses of IV ketamine continue to be reported. More trials are needed to better understand ideal dosing and patient subsets that will benefit most from these effects.

Background: Self-medication among pregnant women represents a serious risk to the mother's and child's health. It is a global concern that requires careful attention from professionals in healthcare. In Morocco, there is a lack of available data on self-medication and predicting variables among pregnant and postpartum women. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of self-medication and the factors that contributed to it among pregnant and postpartum women in the Sous Massa Regional Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pretested questionnaire among 420 pregnant and postpartum women who were attending the regional hospital center of the Sous Massa region from April to December 2022. Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi Software. The logistic regression analysis was used to determine the significance of the association between the outcome and independent variables. Results: The research enrolled 420 pregnant and postpartum women. During the current pregnancy, 24.8% of the women used self-medication. The leading common causes/symptoms that necessitate self-medication among pregnant and postpartum women were Anemia (84.8%), epigastralgia (16.8%), vomiting, pyrosis (15.2%), and urinary and vaginal infections The therapeutic families concerned with self-medication practice were Analgesics (41.4%), Antacids (20.3%), antimicrobials (13.5%), and Vitamin supplements (9%). According to the findings, the most frequent sources of information were pharmacists (45.6%), followed by physicians (44.3%). The primary reasons given by respondents for self-medication were the need for rapid release (51.7%), previous treatments with the same drugs (31.7%), and 20% reported difficulty of access to healthcare professionals. Out of 95.9% of the participants reported that they knew the dangers of self-medication and 96% of them were informed and received information about the dangers and contraindications of self-medication during pregnancy. This was significantly statistically associated with selfmedication respectively with p-value = 0.031 and p-value = 0.005. Conclusion: The findings of the present study provide an initial awareness of the state of self-medication among pregnant and postpartum women attending the regional hospital centers. It is recommended that healthcare professionals increase their interventions to improve the consciousness of pregnant women; this might require implementing suitable strategies to regulate the commercialization, delivery, and use of conventional medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infantile hemangioma is a common benign vascular tumor that affects up to 10% of infants. Propranolol, a beta-blocker, has been used as a promising treatment for infantile hemangioma, but its effectiveness remains controversial. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of propranolol in the treatment of infantile hemangioma in Erbil, Iraq. Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted between May 2021 and December 2022 at Rapareen Teaching Hospital in Erbil, Iraq. A total of 42 children entered the study, considering the inclusion criteria. Propranolol was given at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day and increased to 2-3 mg/kg/day within a few days if tolerated. Infants were treated and followed up for 3 to 6 months. During this follow-up, the infants were checked for cardiac, respiratory, and hypoglycemic symptoms. The obtained data were analyzed using paired, independent, and chi-square tests. Results: The mean age of the infants was 11.48 ± 5.251 months. Regarding the gender distribution of the participants, 14 (33.3%) of the infants were males and 28 (66.7%) were females. Hemangiomas were observed in different body regions, including 6(14.3%) cases in the limbs, 28 (66.7%) in the head and neck, and 8 (19%) in the trunk. Regarding the response to treatment, the results revealed that 27 (64.3%) infants responded well to the treatment. There was a moderate response in 9 (21.4%) infants and a mild response in 6 (14.3%) infants. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, propranolol can be used as an effective and safe drug for hemangioma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this review is to report on the perioperative uses of intravenous (IV) ketamine based on literature from the last five years (2018–2022). We searched MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed databases from 1st January 2018 till 15th September 2022. We primarily reviewed randomized control trials and systematic reviews with or without meta-analyses where IV ketamine was used as part of an anesthetic regimen perioperatively for general or regional anesthesia. We included studies with both pediatric and/or adult participants. We did not examine the quality of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in our review. Perioperative IV ketamine consistently reduced postoperative opioid requirement especially in the early postoperative period, however, the duration of this effect was variable in different surgeries and patient populations. This effect was seen in breast, obstetric, bariatric, and orthopedic surgeries. The effect was minimal in pediatric and thoracic surgeries. It has a valuable role in multi-modal analgesic regimen, especially in orthopedic and spine procedures. Considerable heterogeneity was noted with regards to the dosage of IV ketamine. Bolus doses ranged from 0.15 to 1 mg·kg−1 and infusion doses ranged from 2 to 5 ug·kg−1·min−1. Its role in prevention of chronic post-surgical pain is still under investigation. Intravenous ketamine also reduced postoperative depressive symptoms in specific patient populations. It also reduced shivering associated with spinal anesthesia. It has a potential role in prevention of emergence agitation and postoperative delirium. In conclusion, IV ketamine has a versatile range of beneficial clinical effects in perioperative practice. The most widely studied are its analgesic effects which are of variable intensity amongst different surgical specialties and subset of patients. Despite its long history of use, fresh uses of IV ketamine continue to be reported. More trials are needed to better understand ideal dosing and patient subsets that will benefit most from these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymoquinone (TQ) is the primary component of Nigella sativa L. (NS) oil, which is renowned for its potent hepatoprotective effects attributed to its antioxidant, anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and both anti- and pro-apoptotic properties. The aim of this work was to establish a method of measuring TQ in serum in order to investigate the pharmacokinetics of TQ prior to a targeted therapeutic application. In the first step, a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method for the detection and quantification of TQ in an oily matrix was established and validated according to European Medicines Agency (EMA) criteria. For the assessment of the clinical application, TQ concentrations in 19 oil preparations were determined. Second, two serum samples were spiked with TQ to determine the TQ concentration after deproteinization using toluene. Third, one healthy volunteer ingested 1 g and another one 3 g of a highly concentrated NS oil 30 and 60 min prior to blood sampling for the determination of serum TQ level. After the successful establishment and validation of the measurement method, the highest concentration of TQ (36.56 g/L) was found for a bottled NS oil product (No. 1). Since a capsule is more suitable for oral administration, the product with the third highest TQ concentration (No. 3: 24.39 g/L) was used for all further tests. In the serum samples spiked with TQ, the TQ concentration was reliably detectable in a range between 5 and 10 µg/mL. After oral intake of NS oil (No. 3), however, TQ and/or its derivatives were not detectable in human serum. This discrepancy in detecting TQ after spiking serum or following oral ingestion may be attributed to the instability of TQ in biomatrices as well as its strong protein binding properties. A pharmacokinetics study was therefore not viable. Studies on isotopically labeled TQ in an animal model are necessary to study the pharmacokinetics of TQ using alternative modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RG6346 is an N -acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc)-conjugated, double-stranded RNA interference agent targeting the HBV genome S-region. We investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of RG6346 in healthy volunteers and patients with chronic HBV infection (CHB). This first-in-human, adaptive, randomized, double-blinded, phase I study recruited three groups of participants: Group A, 30 healthy volunteers received single-dose RG6346 at 0.1, 1.5, 3.0, 6.0, or 12.0 mg/kg, or placebo; Group B, nucleos(t)ide analogue-naïve participants with CHB received single-dose RG6346 at 3.0 mg/kg (n = 6) or placebo (n = 3); Group C, participants with nucleos(t)ide-suppressed CHB received four doses (every 28 days) of RG6346 at 1.5, 3.0, or 6.0 mg/kg (n = 4 in each cohort) or placebo (n = 6). RG6346 treatment for up to 4 months was safe and well tolerated. The most common adverse event was a mild injection site reaction. Several nucleos(t)ide-naïve participants exhibited self-resolving transaminase elevations with preserved liver function. By the end of RG6346 treatment in Group C (Day 112), the mean reduction from baseline in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was 1.39, 1.80, and 1.64 log 10 IU/ml in the 1.5, 3.0, and 6.0 mg/kg cohorts, respectively. Of the 12 participants in Group C, 11 (91.7%) achieved a ≥1 log 10 IU/ml reduction in HBsAg (3 of 11 [27.3%] had the response sustained at conditional follow-up Day 448). No dose-response relationship was apparent between RG6346 and serum HBsAg levels. The RG6346-induced HBsAg response was independent of hepatitis B e antigen status. Moderate-to-marked sustained reductions of hepatitis B core-related antigen, HBV RNA, HBV DNA (in nucleos[t]ide analogue-naïve participants), and hepatitis B e antigen levels were observed. These favorable safety and pharmacodynamic data support the clinical development of RG6346 as the backbone of a finite antiviral treatment regimen, with the goal of sustained HBsAg loss (functional cure) in patients with CHB. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03772249. Currently available therapies for chronic HBV infection are associated with low rates of functional cure and new, more efficacious treatments are needed. This first-in-human study of RG6346, an RNA interference therapy, showed a favorable safety profile as well as marked and durable reductions in hepatitis B surface antigen levels. These results support the continued development of RG6346 as the backbone of a finite treatment regimen targeting high functional cure rates and are important for HBV researchers and physicians. [Display omitted] • Chronic hepatitis B virus infection remains a major public health concern. • Long-term detection of HBsAg defines the persistence of CHB. • CHB treatment with RG6346 every 4 weeks for ≤4 months was safe and well tolerated. • RG6346 induced significant and durable reductions in HBsAg in patients with CHB. • These data support the clinical development of RG6346 for CHB treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Bamboo shoots are a unique and versatile ingredient that has been a part of traditional cuisine and medicine in India for centuries. This review article provides an overview of the culinary heritage of bamboo shoots in India, with a particular focus on the Northeast region. The article discusses the traditional methods of consumption and processing of bamboo shoots, along with the various traditional recipes that use bamboo shoots. The article also explores the nutraceutical potential of bamboo shoots and its bioactive components, along with the role of hydrogen cyanide in bamboo shoots. Furthermore, the impact of bamboo shoots on human health is analyzed. The review concludes with future prospects and the need for further research to fully understand the potential of bamboo shoots as a source of food and medicine.

Abstract Over the past several decades, mRNA vaccines have evolved from a theoretical concept to a clinical reality. These vaccines offer several advantages over traditional vaccine techniques, including their high potency, rapid development, low-cost manufacturing, and safe administration. However, until recently, concerns over the instability and inefficient distribution of mRNA in vivo have limited their utility. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have mostly resolved these concerns, resulting in the development of numerous mRNA vaccination platforms for infectious diseases and various types of cancer. These platforms have shown promising outcomes in both animal models and humans. This study highlights the potential of mRNA vaccines as a promising alternative approach to conventional vaccine techniques and cancer treatment. This review article aims to provide a thorough and detailed examination of mRNA vaccines, including their mechanisms of action and potential applications in cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, the article will analyze the current state of mRNA vaccine technology and highlight future directions for the development and implementation of this promising vaccine platform as a mainstream therapeutic option. The review will also discuss potential challenges and limitations of mRNA vaccines, such as their stability and in vivo distribution, and suggest ways to overcome these issues. By providing a comprehensive overview and critical analysis of mRNA vaccines, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of this innovative approach to cancer treatment.

Background/Aims Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is the second leading cause of liver-related mortality and is more prevalent in the elderly population in Korea. Decisions to initiate treatment and selection of proper antiviral agents may be challenging among elderly patients due to relevant comorbidities, comedications, and drug-drug interaction (DDI). It may be helpful to understand the current demographic status and comorbidities of CHC patients in the country. Methods Patients aged ≥ 18 years and diagnosed with CHC (KCD-7 code B18.2) were extracted from the Korean Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service database in 2018. Data on comorbidities and comedications were assessed and potential DDIs were analyzed. Results A total of 50,476 patients with CHC, with a mean age of 60.3 years and 46.7% male patients were identified. The proportion of patients with cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver transplantation was 6.0%, 4.1%, and 0.3%, respectively and 37.2% of patients were more than 65 years of age. The three most common comorbidities were diseases of the digestive system (83.7%), respiratory system (58.2%), and musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (57.6%). The three most common comedications were analgesics (91.6%), gastrointestinal agents (85%), and antibacterials (80.3%). Lipid-lowering agents and anticonvulsants were prescribed in 28.5% and 14.8% of patients. Rate of potential DDI for contraindication was 2.2%, 13.1%, and 15.6% with sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, and glecaprevir/pibrentasvir. Conclusions With the increasing age of patients with CHC, comorbidity, comedication, and potential DDI should be considered when choosing antivirals in Korea. Sofosbuvir-based regimens showed favorable DDI profiles among Korean patients.

Panax notoginseng is a perennial plant well known for its versatile medicinal properties, including hepatoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, estrogen-like, and antidepressant characteristics. It has been reported that plant age affects the quality of P. notoginseng. This study aimed to explore the differential metabolome and transcriptome of 2-year (PN2) and 3-year-old (PN3) P. notoginseng plant root samples. Principal component analysis of metabolome and transcriptome data revealed major differences between the two groups (PN2 vs. PN3). A total of 1813 metabolites and 28,587 genes were detected in this study, of which 255 metabolites and 3141 genes were found to be differential (p < 0.05) between PN2 vs. PN3, respectively. Among differential metabolites and genes, 155 metabolites and 1217 genes were up-regulated, while 100 metabolites and 1924 genes were down-regulated. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed differentially enriched metabolites belonging to class lipids (“13S-hydroperoxy-9Z, 11E-octadecadionic acid”, “9S-hydroxy-10E, 12Z-octadecadionic acid”, “9S-oxo-10E, 12Z-octadecadionic acid”, and “9,10,13-trihydroxy-11-octadecadionic acid”), nucleotides and derivatives (guanine and cytidine), and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid) were found to be enriched (p < 0.05) in PN3 compared to PN2. Further, these differentially enriched metabolites were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) regulated via linoleic acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathways. Furthermore, the transcriptome analysis showed the up-regulation of key genes MAT, DMAS, SDH, gallate 1-beta-glucosyltransferase, and beta-D-glucosidase in various plants’ secondary metabolic pathways and SAUR, GID1, PP2C, ETR, CTR1, EBF1/2, and ERF1/2 genes observed in phytohormone signal transduction pathway that is involved in plant growth and development, and protection against the various stressors. This study concluded that the roots of a 3-year-old P. notoginseng plant have better metabolome and transcriptome profiles compared to a 2-year-old plant with importantly enriched metabolites and genes in pathways related to metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, and various biological processes. These findings provide insights into the plant’s dynamic biochemical and molecular changes during its growth that have several implications regarding its therapeutic use.

Translational Medicine (TM) is "an interdisciplinary branch of the biomedical field supported by three main pillars: bench side, bedside and community. The goal of TM is to combine disciplines resources, expertise and techniques within these pillars to promote enhancement in prevention, diagnosis and therapies"1). In spite of the above guidelines and help, the goals in TM have not been fully attained and have taken a slow and difficult road. Turning basic research into useful therapy for community treatment remains a problematic and difficult process. The goals in TM have not been fully attained and have taken a slow and difficult road. Nanomedicine and nanotechnology, at the same time, were becoming available for medical research with clear and quick direction towards attaining treatment goals in TM. At present, nanomedicine and nanotechnologies have been validated as essentially important approaches for the treatment of human diseases. Nanomedicine and nanotechnologies are presently being applied in TM for diagnosis, prevention and therapeutic use. Advances in nanotechnology propose effective, safe, diagnostic and therapeutic action for TM. Future success in TM will be obtained by enriching our knowledge through ongoing research; and by eliminating difficulties in translational research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment monitoring of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) in resource-limited settings is challenging. We developed a multi-analyte assay for eleven anti-TB drugs in small hair samples as an objective metric of drug exposure.Small hair samples were collected from participants at various timepoints during directly observed RR-TB treatment at an inpatient tertiary referral facility in South Africa (DR-TB cohort). We assessed qualitative determination (i.e., detection above limit of detection) of bedaquiline, linezolid, clofazimine, pretomanid, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, pyrazinamide, isoniazid, ethambutol, ethionamide, and prothionamide in an LC-MS/MS index panel assay against a reference standard of inpatient treatment records. Because treatment regimens prior to hospitalization were not available, we also analyzed specificity (for all drugs except isoniazid) using an external cohort of HIV-positive patients treated for latent TB infection with daily isoniazid (HIV/LTBI cohort) in Uganda.Among the 57 DR-TB patients (58% with pre-XDR/XDR-TB; 70% HIV-positive) contributing analyzable hair samples, the sensitivity of the investigational assay was 94% or higher for all drugs except ethionamide (58.5, 95% confidence interval [CI], 40.7-99.9). Assay specificity was low across all tested analytes within the DR-TB cohort; conversely, assay specificity was 100% for all drugs in the HIV/LTBI cohort.Hair drug concentrations reflect long-term exposure, and multiple successive regimens commonly employed in DR-TB treatment may result in apparent false-positive qualitative and falsely elevated quantitative hair drug levels when prior treatment histories within the hair growth window are not known.

Pleurotus fungi, also known as basidiomycetous fungi, have been a part of human culture for thousands of years. They exhibit anticancer, antitumor, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory effects, having biotechnological, medicinal, and aesthetic applications. They are also versatile, highly resistant to illnesses and pests, and do not require special growing conditions. These properties make them readily marketable, and can be found in supermarkets worldwide, generating multimillion-dollar sale revenues. The global edible mushroom market was valued at USD 5.08 billion in 2021, which is expected to grow to USD 6.43 billion in 2028. China produces about 87% of Pleurotus spp. globally; other Asian countries generate 12%, and Europe and America account for approximately 1%. Pleurotus spp. have distinct functional characteristics, including high protein content with a proper essential amino acid score pattern, dietary fibre profile, high amounts of vitamins (e.g., B and D) and minerals (e.g., Fe, Zn, Cu, and Se), and low fat. Therefore, Pleurotus spp. can provide alternative industrial tools. The present review discusses Pleurotus spp. as biotechnological tools for acquiring metabolites of interest, studying them, and analysing bioactive substances that can be used in various fields, including medicine and food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria with significant therapeutic potential, have gained attention for addressing a range of health issues, including gastrointestinal disorders, immune deficiencies, and mental health concerns. This article delves into the expression and purification of recombinant microbial enzymes to harness the therapeutic potential of probiotics. Probiotics offer promise in promoting overall well-being and preventing diseases through their ability to modulate immune responses and enhance gut health. They have proven effective in alleviating symptoms related to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. These live microorganisms, when administered in sufficient quantities, restore gut flora balance and modulate immune responses. By engineering probiotics to produce therapeutic enzymes that aid digestion or regulate gut microbiota, they can significantly contribute to digestive health and mitigate IBS and IBD symptoms. The expression and purification of recombinant microbial enzymes play a crucial role in enhancing probiotics' therapeutic capabilities, enabling tailored treatments for various health challenges. In summary, probiotics represent a promising frontier in therapeutic microbiology and biotechnology. Their multifaceted benefits, when combined with recombinant microbial enzyme expression and purification, hold immense potential for advancing the field of therapeutic probiotics and improving human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying gaps and strengths in psychedelic-related knowledge is key to developing effective, evidence-based education to inform appropriate use of and harm reduction practices for psychedelics in the naturalistic use landscape. The current study piloted an assessment instrument with questions on legal status, therapeutic potential, and side effects of psychedelics among people reporting current psychedelic use. We recruited participants (N = 1435) at a psychedelic advocacy event and through psychedelic interest groups on social media. Respondents completed a brief survey of psychedelic use and psychedelic knowledge. Items assessed basic knowledge of various topics surrounding psychedelics, such as legal status, active compounds, and known therapeutic efficacy based on the clinical trial literature. Respondents who had used greater numbers of different psychedelics, with higher levels of education, lower age, greater frequency of psychedelic use, identifying as male, used high doses (vs. microdosing only), identifying as Caucasian/White, and with greater annual household income answered more questions correctly. Most respondents exhibited high knowledge of psychedelics, though there is also a demonstrated need for education and outreach, especially in under-represented communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to compare pain medication use trends among adults with and without type 2 diabetes in the US. This cross-sectional study used data of adults with and without (type 2) diabetes from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey waves 2005–2018. Use of pain medication including opioids, prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gabapentinoids, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, skeletal muscle relaxants, and headache treatment agents was compared by diabetes status and within select social determinants of health and clinical factors. Adults with type 2 diabetes were twice as likely to be prescribed pain medications compared to those without a diabetes diagnosis (16.2% vs 8.6%). Females and those with a history of smoking or arthritis were more likely to be on pain medications. Opioid use was the most prevalent regardless of diabetes status, and use was twice as high among those with diabetes (10.8% vs 5.5%). Patients with type 2 diabetes in the US are twice as likely to be prescribed pain medications overall as well as opioids compared with those without diabetes. Clinical guideline recommendations are necessary to find pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic nociceptive pain management specific for patients with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have witnessed the emergence of growing evidence concerning vitamin D's potential role in women's health, specifically in postmenopausal women. This evidence also includes its connection to various genitourinary disorders and symptoms. Numerous clinical studies have observed improvements in vulvovaginal symptoms linked to the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) with vitamin D supplementation. These studies have reported positive effects on various aspects, such as vaginal pH, dryness, sexual functioning, reduced libido, and decreased urinary tract infections. Many mechanisms underlying these pharmacological effects have since been proposed. Vitamin D receptors (VDRs) have been identified as a major contributor to its effects. It is now well known that VDRs are expressed in the superficial layers of the urogenital organs. Additionally, vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting immune function and modulating the body's defense mechanisms. However, the characterization of these effects requires more investigation. Reviewing existing evidence regarding vitamin D's impact on postmenopausal women's vaginal, sexual, and urological health is the purpose of this article. As research in this area continues, there is a potential for vitamin D to support women's urogenital and sexual health during the menopausal transition and postmenopausal periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease.". METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. STRUCTURE: This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease." A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost–value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) cause cell dysfunction with a gradual loss of neurons in the central nervous system and aberrant accumulation of aggregated proteins such as synuclein, tau, and amyloid. Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are the two frequently occurring neurodegenerative disorders. Nanobiotechnology being an emerging field used in applied biotechnology holds great potential for the advancement of treatments. This review aims to give a brief but comprehensive idea about the possibilities of utilizing the advanced nanotechnological aspect to treat the Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s NDs that can be explored through proper investigations. In the present study, various kinds of literature were surveyed and reviewed to appreciate the neurodegenerative disease manifestation. It is becoming challenging to treat and discuss the potentiality of effective nano-mediated treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The capability of current drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) makes NDs’ treatment even more challenging. Recent therapies for such kinds of diseases are focused on symptomatic relief. Nanoparticulate drug delivery systems address all the challenges from all aspects and offer novel therapeutics for NDs. With targeted drug delivery of the required drug or protein to the site of interest, this approach is expected to turn out to be an exact and advanced therapeutic approach.

Hypophosphatemia as a side effect of parenteral iron administration has been well described in the recent literature. However clear protocols or recommendations for prevention, timely recognition and treatment are not available. Different data on risk factors in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) according to the published papers further complicate the understanding of hypophosphatemia and long-term complications, and thus the necessary steps in an adequate approach to prevention and treatment. By presenting a series of clinical cases of four IBD patients, we want to show the heterogeneity of the clinical presentation of hypophosphatemia, the influence of nutritional, inflammatory and other factors and also possible treatment modalities. Furthermore, we want to point out which group of IBD patients is at additional risk of developing hypophoshatemia, with the aim of timely diagnosis and treatment initiation.

Intercellular relationships are the basis of the physiological and pathological biochemical processes in the organism, and recent advances in exosome (Exo) research helped to reveal the mechanism of intercellular exchange of information. Furthermore, the functional properties of extracellular vesicles are being actively investigated nowadays, this opens up great perspectives for their using in clinical practice. Numerous investigations demonstrated the applicability of exosomes for targeted drug delivery. Exosomes play an important role in cancer and they contain the genetic material not only of normal cells of the organism, but also of tumor cells. Therefore, the analysis of exosomes from peripheral blood may be more efficient and specific for the non-invasive diagnosing of cancer. Moreover, exosomes from immune cells possess the immunomodulating activity and can be used in antitumor immunotherapy.

Bamboo shoots are a unique and versatile ingredient that has been a part of traditional cuisine and medicine in India for centuries. This review article provides an overview of the culinary heritage of bamboo shoots in India, with a particular focus on the Northeast region. The article discusses the traditional methods of consumption and processing of bamboo shoots, along with the various traditional recipes that use bamboo shoots. The article also explores the nutraceutical potential of bamboo shoots and its bioactive components, along with the role of hydrogen cyanide in bamboo shoots. Furthermore, the impact of bamboo shoots on human health is analyzed. The review concludes with future prospects and the need for further research to fully understand the potential of bamboo shoots as a source of food and medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past several decades, mRNA vaccines have evolved from a theoretical concept to a clinical reality. These vaccines offer several advantages over traditional vaccine techniques, including their high potency, rapid development, low-cost manufacturing, and safe administration. However, until recently, concerns over the instability and inefficient distribution of mRNA in vivo have limited their utility. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have mostly resolved these concerns, resulting in the development of numerous mRNA vaccination platforms for infectious diseases and various types of cancer. These platforms have shown promising outcomes in both animal models and humans. This study highlights the potential of mRNA vaccines as a promising alternative approach to conventional vaccine techniques and cancer treatment. This review article aims to provide a thorough and detailed examination of mRNA vaccines, including their mechanisms of action and potential applications in cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, the article will analyze the current state of mRNA vaccine technology and highlight future directions for the development and implementation of this promising vaccine platform as a mainstream therapeutic option. The review will also discuss potential challenges and limitations of mRNA vaccines, such as their stability and in vivo distribution, and suggest ways to overcome these issues. By providing a comprehensive overview and critical analysis of mRNA vaccines, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of this innovative approach to cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flaviviruses, including Dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), and Yellow Fever (YFV) viruses, represent a significant global health burden. The development of effective antiviral therapies against these viruses is crucial to mitigate their impact. This study investigated the antiviral potential of the cholesterol-lowering drugs atorvastatin and ezetimibe in monotherapy and combination against DENV, ZIKV, and YFV. In vitro results demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in the percentage of infected cells for both drugs. The combination of atorvastatin and ezetimibe showed a synergistic effect against DENV 2, an additive effect against DENV 4 and ZIKV, and an antagonistic effect against YFV. In AG129 mice infected with DENV 2, monotherapy with atorvastatin or ezetimibe significantly reduced clinical signs and increased survival. However, the combination of both drugs did not significantly affect survival. This study provides valuable insights into the potential of atorvastatin and ezetimibe as antiviral agents against flaviviruses and highlights the need for further investigations into their combined therapeutic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To use experimental periodontitis models in rats to investigate the correlation between local expression of the complement components C3b and C4b in periodontal tissues and disease severity, and to assess the therapeutic effects of targeting C3b/C4b on inflammatory bone loss. Materials and Methods: The gingival expression of C3, C3b, and C4b in animal experimental periodontitis models were analysed immunohistochemically. The therapeutic effects of the C3b/C4b inhibitor (SB002) on ligation‐induced experimental periodontitis was examined using biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. Results: The gingival expression levels of C3, C3b, and C4b were positively correlated with the severity of periodontitis. Moreover, both single and multiple injections of the C3b/C4b inhibitor had preventive and therapeutic effects on alveolar bone loss in ligation‐induced experimental periodontitis with no associated adverse consequences. Conclusions: The association between C3b/C4b and periodontitis may provide a basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for periodontitis and other inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]