Hepatoprotective activity of Lactéol® forte and quercetin dihydrate against thioacetamide-induced hepatic cirrhosis in male albino rats.

Liver cirrhosis is a silent disease in humans and is experimentally induced by many drugs and toxins as thioacetamide (TAA) in particular, which is the typical model for experimental induction of hepatic fibrosis. Thus, the objective of the present study was to elucidate the possible protective effects of lactéol® forte (LF) and quercetin dihydrate (QD) against TAA-induced hepatic damage in male albino rats. Induction of hepatotoxicity was performed by TAA injection (200 mg/kg I/P, twice/ week) in rats. LF (1 × 109 CFU/rat 5 times/week) and QD (50 mg/kg 5 times/week) treated groups were administered concurrently with TAA injection (200 mg/kg I/P, twice/ week). The experimental treatments were conducted for 12 weeks. Hepatotoxicity was evaluated biochemically by measuring alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the serum and histopathologically with the scoring of histopathological changes besides histochemical assessment of collagen by Masson's trichrome and immunohistochemical analysis for α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Ki67 and caspase-3 expression in liver sections. Our results indicated that LF and QD attenuated some biochemical changes and histochemical markers in TAA-mediated hepatotoxicity in rats by amelioration of biochemical markers and collagen, α-SMA, Ki67 and caspase3 Immunoexpression. Additionally, LF and QD supplementation downregulated the proliferative, necrotic, fibroblastic changes, eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions, hyaline globules and Mallory-like bodies that were detected histopathologically in the TAA group. In conclusion, LF showed better hepatic protection than QD against TAA-induced hepatotoxicity in rats by inhibiting inflammatory reactions with the improvement of some serum hepatic transaminases, histopathological picture and immunohistochemical markers.

Therapeutic Potential of Cornus Genus: Navigating Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Clinical Studies, and Advanced Delivery Approaches.

The genus Cornus (Cornaceae) plants are widely distributed in Europe, southwest Asia, North America, and the mountains of Central America, South America, and East Africa. Cornus plants exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidative, antiproliferative, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory activities. These plants are exploited to possess various phytoconstituents such as triterpenoids, iridoids, anthocyanins, tannins and flavonoids. Pharmacological research and clinical investigations on various Cornus species have advanced significantly in recent years. Over the past few decades, a significant amount of focus has also been made into developing new delivery systems for Cornus mas and Cornus officinalis. This review focuses on the morphological traits, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities and clinical studies on extracts and active constituents from plants of Cornus genus. The review also highlights recent novel delivery systems for Cornus mas and Cornus officinalis extracts to promote sustained and targeted delivery in diverse disorders. The overwhelming body of research supports the idea that plants from the genus Cornus have therapeutic potential and can be investigated in the future for treatingseveral ailments.

The therapeutic value of Myrtus communis L.: an updated review.

Myrtus communis L. (Family: Myrtaceae) is naturally found in the western part of Asia, Southern Europe, and North Africa. It has been reportedly applied in pharmaceutical industry, traditional medicine, cosmetics, spices, and food. Pubmed, Google scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus were utilized to seek out relevant content concerning the therapeutic potential of M. communis. Subsequently, we conducted a review to identity noteworthy updates pertaining to M. communis. Myrtle berries, leaves, seeds, and essential oils are natural sources of several nutrients and bioactive compounds with marked health effects. The chemical analysis showed that M. communis contained oils, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, coumarins, saponosides, tannins, quinines, and anthraquinones. A pharmacological investigation revealed that M. communis possessed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimutagenic, immunomodulatory, dermatological, cardiovascular, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal protective effects, among numerous other biological effects. This current review focused on the biochemical, pharmacological, therapeutic effects, and various biological activities of different parts of M. communis. It signifies that M. communis is a therapeutic plant with numerous applications in medicine and could be used as a drug isolate based on its safety and effectiveness.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and epigenetic potential of curcumin in Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) constitutes a multifactorial neurodegenerative pathology characterized by cognitive deterioration, personality alterations, and behavioral shifts. The ongoing brain impairment process poses significant challenges for therapeutic interventions due to activating multiple neurotoxic pathways. Current pharmacological interventions have shown limited efficacy and are associated with significant side effects. Approaches focusing on the early interference with disease pathways, before activation of broad neurotoxic processes, could be promising to slow down symptomatic progression of the disease. Curcumin-an integral component of traditional medicine in numerous cultures worldwide-has garnered interest as a promising AD treatment. Current research indicates that curcumin may exhibit therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative pathologies, attributed to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, curcumin and its derivatives have demonstrated an ability to modulate cellular pathways via epigenetic mechanisms. This article aims to raise awareness of the neuroprotective properties of curcuminoids that could provide therapeutic benefits in AD. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the neuroprotective efficacy of curcumin against signaling pathways that could be involved in AD and summarizes recent evidence of the biological efficiency of curcumins in vivo.

Does vitamin D protect or treat Parkinson's disease? A narrative review.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative brain disease (NBD) developed due to dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra (SN). Vitamin D (VD), VD receptor (VDR), and VD metabolites are highly expressed in the human brain and play a critical role in maintaining different brain functions. VDRs are highly expressed in the SN that regulates the activity of dopaminergic neurons and synaptic plasticity. VD exerts protective and therapeutic effects against the development of PD by modulating dopaminergic neurons of SN. VD reduces oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in PD because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Different studies revealed the protective effect of VD in the management of PD. However, the potential therapeutic effect of VD in well-established PD remains controversial. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate VD's preventive and therapeutic roles in PD. In conclusion, VD deficiency is associated with increased PD risk, but VD supplementation in well-established PD plays little role.

Morus alba: a comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological review.

Morus alba is a fast-growing shrub or medium-sized tree with a straight, cylindrical trunk. Medicinally, whole plants, leaves, fruits, branches, and roots have been employed. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical components and pharmacologic and mechanism of action of the Morus alba. This was reviewed to assess important updates about Morus alba. The fruits of Morus alba have traditionally been used as an analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, hypotensive, hypoglycemia, purgative, restorative, sedative tonic, and blood stimulant. Various plant parts were used as a cooling, sedating, diuretic, tonic, and astringent agent to treat nerve disorders. The plant contained tannins, steroids, phytosterols, sitosterol, glycosides, alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, and amino acids, as well as saponins, triterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids, benzofuran derivatives, anthocyanins, anthraquinones, glycosides, vitamins, and minerals. Previous pharmacological research identified antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunological, analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidant, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, dermatological, neurological, muscular, and protecting effects. This study looked at Morus alba's traditional uses, chemical components, and pharmacological effects.

A review of the bioactive components and pharmacological properties of Lavandula species.

Lavandula species is a flowering plant that is common in Europe and across the Mediterranean. Lavender has many health benefits for humans. In addition to its use in herbal medicine, it is widely used in the fields of cosmetics, perfumes, foods, and aromatherapy. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical ingredients, the pharmacologic effects of the ingredients, and the mechanism of action of the Lavandula species identified. These materials were reviewed in order to have access to important updates about the Lavandula species. Lavender as referred to in English contains essential oils, anthocyanins, phytosterols, sugars, minerals, coumaric acid, glycolic acid, valeric acid, ursolic acid, herniarins, coumarins, and tannins. It has been used to treat colic and chest ailments, worrisome headaches, and biliousness, and in cleaning wounds. It has antifungal, antibacterial, neurologic, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, anti-diabetic, and analgesic effects among others. Lavandula species has prospects for various biological applications, especially with its dermatological application. Advances in drug development would enable characterization of various bioactive constituents; thus, its development and application can have a more positive impact on humanity. Here, we highlighted updated information on the history, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Lavandula species.

Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update.

Medicinal plants have a long track record of use in history, and one of them is Commiphora myrrh which is commonly found in the southern part of Arabia, the northeastern part of Africa, in Somalia, and Kenya. Relevant literatures were accessed via Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to give updated information on the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological action of Commiphora myrrh. It has been used traditionally for treating wounds, mouth ulcers, aches, fractures, stomach disorders, microbial infections, and inflammatory diseases. It is used as an antiseptic, astringent, anthelmintic, carminative, emmenagogue, and as an expectorant. Phytochemical studies have shown that it contains terpenoids (monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and volatile/essential oil), diterpenoids, triterpenoids, and steroids. Its essential oil has applications in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and perfumery. Research has shown that it exerts various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, analgesic, anti-parasitic, and recently, it was found to work against respiratory infections like COVID-19. With the advancement in drug development, hopefully, its rich phytochemical components can be explored for drug development as an insecticide due to its great anti-parasitic activity. Also, its interactions with drugs can be fully elucidated.This review highlights an updated information on the history, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Commiphora myrrh. Graphical summary of the phytochemical and pharmacological update of Commiphora myrrh.

The phytochemical profiling, pharmacological activities, and safety of malva sylvestris: a review.

Malva sylvestris is a plant commonly found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The leaves and flowers of this plant have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as cough, cold, diarrhoea, and constipation. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical profiling and pharmacologic activities of Malva sylvestris. The techniques used in phytochemical profiling and the pharmacologic activity of each compound were extracted from the included studies, including in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. The phytochemical analysis of Malva sylvestris revealed that the leaves and flowers are the most commonly used parts of the plant and contain various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, mucilages, terpenoids, phenol derivatives, coumarins, sterols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. These phytochemicals are responsible for the many pharmacological activities of Malva sylvestris, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, laxative, antiproliferative and antioxidant properties. This review has presented an overview of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities and the cytotoxic effects of Malva sylvestris on different types of cancer cells. It has also summarised the work on developing copper oxide nanoparticles using Malva sylvestris leaf extract and its potential use in food and medicine. This review aims to highlight the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and safety of Malva sylvestris.

HYSTERICAL APNEA IN THE WORK OF GALEN (CA 129 - 199 AD): GENDER EQUITY IN THE HISTORY OF PSYCHOSOMATIC MEDICINE.

OBJECTIVE: The aim: To presents clinical, epidemiological and pathophysiological aspects of the disease described by Galenos of Pergamon during the 2nd century AD and discusses its implications on contemporary discourse on gender equity and gender - based discrimination. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: The authors searched original medical texts written in Greek language and attributed to Galenos for records related to hysterical apnea. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Galen attempted to interpret hysterical apnea by combining clinical and epidemiological observations with anatomical and functional lesions. His approach denounced the anatomically unsound notion of the wandering womb and availed the knowledge of his period in a rational manner. Investigating gender - related aspects of contemporary psychosomatic conditions related to fertility and pregnancy can help address gender - based discrimination in modern societies.

Periscyphismus and Section of the Temporal Vessels: Two Byzantine Surgical Remedies for Headache Relief.

Headache is a prevalent clinical symptom and condition, whose management has been challenging from the antiquity to the 21st century. Physicians in the Greek, Roman and Byzantine antiquity employed surgical techniques to treat headache in patients presenting with persistent symptoms that were not alleviated with conservative means. A survey in the medical literature of the period reveals that two surgical procedures, periscyphismus and section of the temporal vessels, were developed for this purpose. The present study describes the techniques presented in the sources of the period and elaborates on their evolution and influence across different historical periods and contexts.

Surgery in antiquity: the origin of the Trendelenburg position revisited.

INTRODUCTION: The Raised Pelvic Position, also known as Trendelenburg position, consists of the elevation of the pelvis above the horizontal plane in the supine position with the head lowered. The position is named after Friedrich Trendelenburg, a German surgeon, who flourished in Berlin at the end of the nineteenth century. Although modern studies trace the position's principle back to the first century BC, we herein present even earlier descriptions, dating back to the fifth century BC. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The whole ancient Greek literature was digitally searched. All relevant references were analyzed from the original sources. RESULTS: We found at least nine references to the Raised Pelvic Position in the ancient Greek literature from the following physicians: Hippocrates (fifth century BC), Soranus of Ephesus (first century AD), Aetius of Amida (fifth century AD) and Paulus Aegineta (seventh century AD). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: All references presented, describe clearly the Raised Pelvic Position, as part of a strategy to repair uterine pathologies, mainly prolapsed uterus, but also instability, bleeding, tumors and infertility. We conclude that ancient Greek writers were aware of the usefulness of the head-down position, as reflected from the numerous existing descriptions dating back to the fifth century BC.

Correlation of perioperative biochemical variables with single adenoma weight in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.

BACKGROUND: Single parathyroid adenoma is the main cause of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), with surgery remaining the gold standard for its treatment. The ability to preoperatively predict the parathyroid adenoma size and could facilitate the decision about the extent of surgical exploration. It is reasonable to hypothesize that the perioperative levels of PHPT-related variables (i.e. calcium, parathormone, phosphate) may predict the adenoma weight or/and demonstrate whether the adenoma is successfully removed or not. Aim of this study is to explore the relationship between perioperative biochemical values and adenoma weight. Secondarily, we investigated the relationship between adenoma weight and uni-/bilateral neck exploration. METHODS: Retrospective study of all patients undergone surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism due to single adenoma in a tertiary university hospital in Germany during a 6-year period. Following variables were analyzed: preoperative serum calcium, phosphorus and parathormone, intraoperative parathormone before and after adenoma excision, intraoperative PTH decrease, postoperative serum calcium and parathormone (PTHpostop-pg/ml), calcium and PTH decrease. Bivariate correlations were calculated by the Spearman's correlation test at the 95% significance level. RESULTS: A total of 339 patients were included in the study. The median age of the patients was 60 years (range 21-90) and 77% were females. The median adenoma weight was 1 g (range 0.1-11). Adenoma weight correlated strong with maximum adenoma diameter (r = 0.72, p < 0.05), moderate with preoperative parathormone (r = 0.44) and parathormone decrease (r = 0.27), whereas there was no correlation with the intraoperative PTH decrease (r = 0.02). There was also a borderline (moderate to weak) correlation with pre- and postoperative calcium levels (r = 0.21 and r = 0.23 respectively) and a negative borderline correlation with phosphorus (r = - 0.21). Patients who required bilateral neck exploration, had significantly lighter adenomas (median weight 0.8 g vs 1.1 g, p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that preoperative PTH levels may only serve as an approximate guide to adenoma weight, as direct preoperative prediction is not possible. Serum calcium levels, PTH and calcium decrease correlate only weak with adenoma weight. Patients who require bilateral neck exploration, have significantly (20-25%) lighter adenomas.

Gynaecomastia and scrotal rhacosis: two aesthetic surgical operations for men in Byzantine times.

BACKGROUND: Nowadays, as in the past, much attention is paid to aesthetic operations in women, while only infrequently have such operations been referred to in males. Generally, male aesthetic surgery was introduced to surgical practise during the 19th century. In this study, we analysed the practise of such operations in Byzantine times and in other ancient cultures with surgical knowledge, i.e. ancient India and China METHODS: The sixth book of Paul of Aegina's "Epitome of Medicine" was studied for description of aesthetic operations in males in the Byzantine period, since this book is completely devoted to surgery and is generally considered to be the most important reference for surgery in Byzantine times. The original text and its excellent translation by Francis Adams were used. References concerning aesthetic operations for males were identified. Accordingly, historical work and reviews on plastic surgery in ancient India and China were studied. RESULTS: Mainly, two aesthetic surgical procedures for males in the Byzantine period were identified. These two procedures comprise gynaecomastia and rhacosis (scrotal relaxation). Two different techniques were reported for the surgical management of gynaecomastia, through sub-mammary or supra-mammary access. Two procedures were noted for rhacosis, for which Paul of Aegina reproduced the respective chapters from Leonides' and Antyllus' works. Evidence supporting male aesthetic surgery in ancient India and China or elsewhere was not found. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the dubious aesthetic result, the existence of different aesthetic surgical techniques in males substantiate the advanced level of surgery achieved by physicians in the Byzantine period.