Exploring the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory potential of Lavandula officinalis essential oil: In vitro and in silico insights.

Medicinal plants have been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine systems worldwide, providing a rich source of bioactive compounds with diverse biological activities. Lavandula officinalis, a member of the Lamiaceae family, has been recognized for its multifaceted pharmacological activities. In this current investigation, our primary objective was to scrutinize the in vitro inhibitory potential of L. officinalis essential oil (LOEO) against alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, with the aim of understanding its antidiabetic effects. Additionally, the assay encompassed tyrosinase and lipoxygenase (LOX) to assess its anti-inflammatory attributes. Unraveling the underlying molecular mechanisms of these activities prompted an in-silico study. The purpose was to establish correlations between in-vitro observations and computational insights derived from molecular docking, which forecasts the interaction of LOEO molecules with their respective targets, alongside ADMET prediction. The Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis allow to identify eighteen compounds, with the dominance of L-camphor (43.12 %), 1,8-cineole (34.27 %) and borneol (8.60 %) in LOEO. The antidiabetic evaluation revealed that LOEO exhibited noteworthy inhibitory activity against both α-amylase and α-glucosidase, displaying IC50 values of 3.14 ± 0.05 mg/mL and 2.07 ± 0.03 mg/mL, respectively. The subsequent in-silico study highlighted the particularly strong binding affinity of (E)-Farnesene, with a binding score of -7.4 kcal/mol for alpha-glucosidase, while Germacrene D displayed the highest affinity among the ligands (-7.9 kcal/mol) for the alpha-amylase target. Furthermore, the investigation into in vitro anti-inflammatory activity unveiled LOEO efficacy against tyrosinase (IC50 = 42.74 µg/mL) and LOX (IC50 = 11.58 ± 0.07 µg/mL). The in-silico analysis echoed these findings, indicating α-Cadinene's notable binding affinity of 6 kcal/mol with tyrosinase and α-Cedrene's binding score of -6.5 kcal/mol for LOX. Impressively, for both COX-1 and COX-2, α-Cedrene exhibited significant binding affinities of -7.6 and -7.3 kcal/mol, respectively. The convergence between the in vitro and in silico outcomes underscores the potential of LOEO and its constituent compounds as potent inhibitors targeting both diabetes and the inflammatory processes.

Effectiveness of digital tools for smoking cessation in Asian countries: a systematic review.

AIM: The use of tobacco is responsible for many preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. Digital interventions have greatly improved patient health and clinical care and have proven to be effective for quitting smoking in the general population due to their flexibility and potential for personalization. However, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of digital interventions for smoking cessation in Asian countries. METHODS: Three major databases - Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, and PubMed - for relevant studies published between 1 January 2010 and 12 February 2023 were searched for studies evaluating the effectiveness of digital intervention for smoking cessation in Asian countries. RESULTS: A total of 25 studies of varying designs were eligible for this study collectively involving a total of n = 22,005 participants from 9 countries. Among different digital tools for smoking cessation, the highest abstinence rate (70%) was reported with cognitive behavioural theory (CBT)-based smoking cessation intervention via Facebook followed by smartphone app (60%), WhatsApp (59.9%), and Pharmacist counselling with Quit US smartphone app (58.4%). However, WhatsApp was preferred over Facebook intervention due to lower rates of relapse. WeChat was responsible for 15.6% and 41.8% 7-day point prevalence abstinence. For telephone/text messaging abstinence rate ranged from 8-44.3% and quit rates from 6.3% to 16.8%. Whereas, no significant impact of media/multimedia messages and web-based learning on smoking cessation was observed in this study. CONCLUSION: Based on the study findings the use of digital tools can be considered an alternative and cost-effective smoking cessation intervention as compared to traditional smoking cessation interventions.

Hydroxyapatite-chitosan composites derived from sea cucumbers and shrimp shells ameliorate femoral bone defects in an albino rat model.

Background and Aim: A bone defect is defined as a critically sized autologous bone and a bone gap. Bone grafting is one of the most commonly used surgical methods to enhance bone regeneration in orthopedic procedures. A composite of collagen, hydroxyapatite (HA), and chitosan (Ch) is suitable as a bone matrix and stimulates ossification. This study aimed to evaluate the use of natural HA-Ch composites derived from sea cucumbers and shrimp shells and quantify the levels of cytokines, polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), serum liver enzymes, calcium, phosphate, and procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (PINP) in albino rats with femoral bone defects. Materials and Methods: A total of 48 albino rats with femoral bone defects were divided into 4 groups (n = 12 each): (C-) placebo, (C+) polyethylene glycol, (T1) HA, and (T2) HA-Ch groups. Each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 6 each), with euthanization on 7- and 42-day post-treatment, respectively. Procollagen Type 1 N-terminal propeptide and the cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate PMNs. A clinical chemistry analyzer was used to measure the serum levels of liver enzymes, calcium, and phosphate. Results: There was a significant decrease in the level of IL-6 on 7 days and in the level of IL-10 on 42 days in the HA-Ch group. The level of PMNs also decreased significantly on 7 and 42 days in the HA-Ch group. Regarding serum liver enzymes, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in the HA-Ch group increased significantly on 42 days. Calcium and phosphate levels increased significantly on 7 and 42 days in the HA and HA-Ch groups, and PINP levels increased significantly on 7 and 42 days in the HA-Ch group. Conclusion: The HA-Ch composite derived from sea cucumbers and shrimp shells ameliorated femoral bone defects in albino rats. The HA-Ch composite modulated the levels of IL-6, IL-10, PMNs, ALP, calcium, phosphate, and PINP on 7- and 42-day post-treatment.

Effect of α-Mangostin on Interleukin-11 and Runt-related Transcription Factor-2 Gene Expression on Cell Line Osteoblast Cultures Induced with Lipopolysaccharide.

Background: Loss of permanent teeth after tooth extraction without replacement of missing teeth can result in impaired masticatory, esthetic, phonetic functions, and impaired balance of the masticatory organ in the mouth. Therefore, a method is needed to inhibit the alveolar bone resorption process so that the dimensions of the tooth socket can be maintained vertically or horizontally until the time of implant placement, which is called the socket preservation procedure. α-mangostin is known to have a potential anti-inflammatory effect and most likely can be used as a potential therapeutic agent to inhibit bone resorption caused by posttooth extraction inflammatory processes. Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the effect on the inflammatory process and osteogenesis on osteoblast cell line culture by induction with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and α-mangostin. Materials and Methods: This was an in vitro laboratory experimental study on mouse osteoblast cell line culture. The treatment was given with LPS, α-mangostin, and combination on osteogenic medium, using the same concentration for all concentrates. The sample will then be processed and analyzed using the real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The highest interleukin-11 (IL-11) gene expression was found in α-mangostin treatment, but there was no significant difference in IL-11 expression between the study groups. The highest runt-related transcription factor-2 (RUNX-2) gene expression was found in a group that received induction with LPS and α-mangostin, and from these results, it was found that there was a significant difference in RUNX-2 expression between the study groups. Conclusions: LPS and α-mangostin can increase osteogenesis in osteoblast cell culture in the osteogenic medium.

Maternal Health Care Utilization Behavior, Local Wisdom, and Associated Factors Among Women in Urban and Rural Areas, Indonesia.

Purpose: Maternal mortality is one problem that still affects countries like Indonesia and others globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that Southeast Asian countries have a high MMR. Indonesia's maternal mortality ranks third highest in Southeast Asia, with a 177 maternal mortality rate per 100,000 live births in 2017. In 2018, the maternal mortality rate reached 91.45 per 100,000 live births. Pregnant women's deaths can be caused inadequate medical care due to how frequently they seek treatment. This study intends to identify and analyze how knowledge, education, and myths affect pregnant women's attitudes toward seeking health services. Materials and Methods: The study involved 175 pregnant and postpartum women who visited 10 health public centers in two cities in East Java by accidental sampling. Data regarding intrapersonal, interpersonal, and local wisdom were collected through surveys with structured instruments and in-depth interviews. Data statistics used pathway analysis with a p-value of >0.05. Results: Intrapersonal, interpersonal, and local wisdom variables have a significant direct or indirect effect on utilizing health services. Knowledge was the variable with the greatest influence (t-value, 27.96). Conclusion: Myth and culture as local wisdom and intrapersonal factors significantly affect the pattern of utilizing health services.

An Indonesian adolescent with Turner syndrome and ß-thalassemia in low-resource setting: A case report and literature review article.

Background: Turner syndrome and ß-thalassemia very rarely occur together in an individual. Case presentation: An Indonesian adolescent, 18 years old, complained is fatigue a week ago. She has a medical history of ß-thalassemia for age 6 months and Turner syndrome identification for age 16 years. Meanwhile, she regular consumes deferasirox 500 mg every day. Physical examination showed pale conjunctiva and pale face. Body view similar children aged 13 years old. Laboratories investigation values included Hb of 7.7 gr/dL, MCV of 79.5 fL, MCH of 25.9 pg, MCHC of 28.6%, WBC of 6780/mm3, PLT of 242,000/mm3, AST of 15 U/L, ALT of 20 U/L, Ferritin of 1692.32 ng/mL, growth hormone of 0.468 ng/mL, Estradiol of <11.80 pg/mL, luteinizing hormone of 53.50 mIU/mL, and follicle-stimulating hormone of 115.19 mIU/mL. Chromosomal analysis showed Turner syndrome. The patient received a packed red cell transfusion of up Hb of 10 gr/dL, deferasirox 500 mg daily, and a contraceptive tablet. Due to financial issue in Indonesia, patient with Turner syndrome does not get proper hormonal therapy such as growth hormone, vitamin D supplementation, and other hormone replacement therapy. Discussion: Turner syndrome and thalassemia in low-resource settings are challenges in themselves, so in their implementation, only thalassemia can be controlled, but for therapy, it does not show an improvement in prognosis. Conclusion: Turner syndrome and thalassemia both worsen the patient's condition.

How Internet Websites Portray Herbal Vitality Products Containing Eurycoma longifolia Jack: An Evaluation of the Quality and Risks of Online Information.

BACKGROUND: Tongkat Ali (TA) or Eurycoma longifolia is a herbal medicine (HM) plant traditionally used to treat sexual dysfunction and enhance libido in men. Websites containing information about HM are abundant. However, studies have shown that in general the quality of websites containing information on HM is low. The present study aims to assess the quality and risks of websites containing information about TA supplements and to identify the health claims for TA. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study to evaluate the quality and risks of websites discussing TA supplements was conducted. Online marketing websites, research articles, news articles, personal opinions, and those restricted by password were excluded. The quality and risks of websites were assessed using a modified DISCERN tool and a set of risk assessment criteria, respectively. The health claims for TA were identified and analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS: Overall, 321 websites met the inclusion criteria and were further evaluated. The overall rating of the quality of the websites was low, with a mean score ± standard deviation of 1.07 ± 0.51. Most websites lacked information that there may be more than one possible treatment choice and did not discuss areas of uncertainty. However, 67.9% (218/321) of the websites received a risk score of zero. A minority of websites (5/321, 1.6%) discouraged the use of conventional medicines. The most common health claims for TA included in the websites related to the enhancement of testosterone level (121/321, 37.7%), treatment of malaria (112/321, 34.9%), and improvement in libido (108/321, 33.6%). CONCLUSIONS: Websites containing information about TA supplements generally have a low-quality rating based on a modified DISCERN tool despite having a low-risk score. Government agencies and healthcare professionals (HCPs) must be more proactive in the critique and dissemination of information relating to HM, and in ensuring the safe use of HM among the public and patients.

Acute flaccid paralysis in Indonesian adult due to suspected familial hypokalemia paralysis: A rare case.

Background: Familial hypokalemic periodic paralysis (FHPP) is rare, so its management is essential to report. Case presentation: A 25-year-old Indonesian woman complained of feeling weak in both hands and legs, but the heaviest in both legs. The patient has several family members with similar complaints. The patient experienced decreased muscle strength in the upper extremity of 4/4 and the lower extremity of 3/3. Laboratory investigation showed potassium of 2.0 mmol/L, and the patient was given KCL of 50 mEq/24 hours, KSR of 3 × 600 mg/24 hours for 3 days, and a high potassium diet. The next few days, potassium levels increased, and the patient was treated as an outpatient. Discussion: Early diagnosis and management of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) due to FHPP are very effective in low-resource settings. Conclusion: Finding the cause of AFP is essential for better management.

The role of probiotics in the treatment of adult atopic dermatitis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is chronic inflammatory skin disease that is relapsing and a serious condition that disrupts the quality of life of affected individuals. Probiotics are an immunomodulator that can enhance the immune control of atopic dermatitis. METHODS: All randomized controlled trials of probiotics for the treatment of adult AD published before December 2020 were included in this study from the PubMed databases and manual searching. RESULTS: Six randomized controlled trials (n = 241) were selected for this meta-analysis study. Probiotics were effective in treating adult patients with AD, indicated by the decrease in Scoring Atopic Dermatitis/SCORAD (Mean Difference (MD) - 7.90, 95% CI - 7.25 to - 6.92; p < 0.00001; I2 = 96%) and improved quality of life (MD - 7.68, 95% CI - 14.08 to - 1.29; p = 0.02; I2 = 47%) which were statistically significant. However, skin severity, itch severity, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), IL-4, TFN-γ, and IgE showed no significant difference in this meta-analysis study (p > 0.05). LIMITATIONS: The study found no available data for side effects of probiotics. STRENGTH: This meta-analysis analyzed a total of 241 AD patients of Asian and European origin. CONCLUSION: The use of probiotics decreased SCORAD significantly in adult patients with AD. Probiotics can improve the quality of life of patients with AD. The use of probiotics in atopic dermatitis has been widely studied, with controversial results. This meta-analysis suggests that the use of probiotics can improve SCORAD and the quality of life of patients with atopic dermatitis.

The expression of interleukin-1ß and nuclear factor erythroid-2 in the periodontitis after treatment of liquid smoke rice hull.

Nonsurgical treatment such as scaling and root planing has been the main therapy of periodontal management. However, some individuals are nonresponsive with only mechanical therapy. Rice hull liquid smoke (RH-LS) with higher of phenolic compound supposed to interfere with inflammation process. Thus, the purpose of this study is to investigate the anti-inflammation properties of RH-LS for chronic periodontitis adjunct therapy by observing the expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2 (Nrf-2) and interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß). Two groups of Wistar rats were used. Control group was induced by 1 × 109 colony-forming unit (CFU)/ml Porphyromonas gingivalis (PG) and treated with aquadest for 2 and 7 days. Meanwhile, the other group was induced by 1 × 109 CFU/ml PG and treated with RH-LS for 2 and 7 days. Two central incisive/mandibulae were dissected and stained with immunohistochemistry for analyzed the expression of Nrf-2 and IL-1ß. Data were then analyzed statistically using independent t-test (P = 0.05). Treatment with RH-LS for 7 days showed lower expression of IL-1ß (4.00 ± 1.58) than control group (13.60 ± 2.70) and showed higher expression of Nrf-2 (11.60 ± 1.95) than control group (4.20 ± 1.64) (P = 0.000) (P < 0.05). Treatment of RH-LS for 2 days showed higher expression of Nrf-2 (2.20 ± 1.31) than control group (6.80 ± 1.92) (P = 0.003) (P < 0.05). RH-LS showed anti-inflammation properties by elevating the expression of Nrf-2 and depressing expression of IL-1ß in periodontitis induced by PG.

Optimizing the transfer-learning with pretrained deep convolutional neural networks for first stage breast tumor diagnosis using breast ultrasound visual images.

Female accounts for approximately 50% of the total population worldwide and many of them had breast cancer. Computer-aided diagnosis frameworks could reduce the number of needless biopsies and the workload of radiologists. This research aims to detect benign and malignant tumors automatically using breast ultrasound (BUS) images. Accordingly, two pretrained deep convolutional neural network (CNN) models were employed for transfer learning using BUS images like AlexNet and DenseNet201. A total of 697 BUS images containing benign and malignant tumors are preprocessed and performed classification tasks using the transfer learning-based CNN models. The classification accuracy of the benign and malignant tasks is completed and achieved 92.8% accuracy using the DensNet201 model. The results thus achieved compared in state of the art using benchmark data set and concluded proposed model outperforms in accuracy from first stage breast tumor diagnosis. Finally, the proposed model could help radiologists diagnose benign and malignant tumors swiftly by screening suspected patients.

Improved Deep Convolutional Neural Network to Classify Osteoarthritis from Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is caused by partially or completely torn ACL ligament in the knee, especially in sportsmen. There is a need to classify the ACL tear before it fully ruptures to avoid osteoarthritis. This research aims to identify ACL tears automatically and efficiently with a deep learning approach. A dataset was gathered, consisting of 917 knee magnetic resonance images (MRI) from Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Croatia. The dataset we used consists of three classes: non-injured, partial tears, and fully ruptured knee MRI. The study compares and evaluates two variants of convolutional neural networks (CNN). We first tested the standard CNN model of five layers and then a customized CNN model of eleven layers. Eight different hyper-parameters were adjusted and tested on both variants. Our customized CNN model showed good results after a 25% random split using RMSprop and a learning rate of 0.001. The average evaluations are measured by accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity, and F1-score in the case of the standard CNN using the Adam optimizer with a learning rate of 0.001, i.e., 96.3%, 95%, 96%, 96.9%, and 95.6%, respectively. In the case of the customized CNN model, using the same evaluation measures, the model performed at 98.6%, 98%, 98%, 98.5%, and 98%, respectively, using an RMSprop optimizer with a learning rate of 0.001. Moreover, we also present our results on the receiver operating curve and area under the curve (ROC AUC). The customized CNN model with the Adam optimizer and a learning rate of 0.001 achieved 0.99 over three classes was highest among all. The model showed good results overall, and in the future, we can improve it to apply other CNN architectures to detect and segment other ligament parts like meniscus and cartilages.