Medicine
Practical Way to Use Supraglottic Airway Device
We read a review of case reports published in Current Pediatric Reviews 2024 about the use of I-gel® in neonatal complicated intubation and we decided to write a commentary on the benefits and limitations of using supraglottic airways in neonatal age with a specific focus on I-gel. The use of supraglottic airway devices in neonatal ages is limited to particular conditions but further research is showing the utility of these devices as the first choice in neonatal resuscitation or airway stabilization. Our commentary highlights the broader practical applications of I-gel and reinforces its role as a valuable tool in neonatal resuscitation.
Mapping Systematic Reviews on the Management of Dental Caries in Primary Teeth: A Meta-research
Systematic reviews (SRs) represent the most robust source of evidence for informing decision-making. While there are rigorous protocols for properly conducting SRs sometimes the methodological biases in the primary studies are accounted for in the conclusions of the SRs.
This study aimed to map the evidence regarding the management of caries lesions in primary teeth.
Two reviewers conducted a systematic search up to March 2024 in electronic databases. Any SR concerning the management of caries lesions in primary teeth was considered eligible.
About 162 SRs were included. Among these 80 focused on restorative treatments 64 on endodontic treatments and 18 on non-invasive treatments. Only 42.6% presented a study registration protocol. The majority (67.9%) performed a meta-analysis while a minority exclusively carried out qualitative data analysis. Despite 92.6% of the SRs evaluating the methodological quality or risk of bias of the primary studies using some tool only 24% assessed the certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach resulting in classifications ranging from very low to moderate.
There is a limited adherence to study registration protocols indicating a need for improvements in this practice. Additionally among the few SRs that used the GRADE approach the majority demonstrated levels of very low to moderate certainty.
Cardiology Consult for the General Pediatrician after Cardiac Manifestations from a SARS-CoV-2 Infection
The novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus created a need for evidence-based guidelines for the evaluation management and follow-up after infection. Data have become rapidly available creating a challenge for medical providers to stay abreast of the ever-evolving recommendations. This article written collaboratively by pediatric cardiovascular experts pediatricians and sports medicine specialists is focused on SARS-CoV- 2-related pediatric cardiac manifestations. It aims to provide a systematic review of high-yield literature related to all cardiovascular entities as a tool for primary pediatric clinicians to utilize as they consider the cardiac consequences of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection MIS-C vaccine-related myocarditis return-to-play and long COVID-19 syndrome.
A Quantitative Review of Un-licensed and Off-label Medicines Use in Children Aged 0-2 Years in the Private Sector in South Africa: Extent, Challenges, and Implications
The global lack of suitable formulations for children leads to off-label and unlicensed medicine use posing significant risks of adverse effects. Understanding this usage on a national level can help guide interventions for better formulations. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of off-label and unlicensed medicines among children in South Africa's private sector.
The study used a point prevalence methodology to review medicine use in children aged 0-2 years enrolled in a selected pharmaceutical benefit management company in South Africa from January to June 2022. A sample size of 1055 prescriptions was calculated using a 90% confidence interval 50% prevalence rate and 5% error margin. A systematic random sampling approach selected every 7th entry from 91973 total entries resulting in a final sample size of 13139. Data included patient age number and characteristics of medicines quantity and indications. Descriptive statistics analysed and reported the prevalence of unlicensed and off-label medicine use.
Among the 13139 prescribed medicines 40% (5246) were off-label or unlicensed and 60% (7893) were on-label. Of the off-label/unlicensed medicines 16.85% (2214) were unlicensed and 23.08% (3032) were off-label. Methylprednisolone was the top off-label medicine probiotics were the top unlicensed and the ICD10 code Z76.9 was the top diagnosis.
The study found that 40% of children aged 0-2 years were prescribed unlicensed or off-label medicines in South Africa's private healthcare sector between January and June 2022. This suggests a widespread practice of off-label or unlicensed prescriptions in paediatric treatment in the South African private sector.
The Association between Prenatal Antibiotic Use and the Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorders among Children: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Studies on prenatal antibiotic use and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) risk have yielded inconsistent results.
This study aimed to resolve these discrepancies by conducting a meta-analysis on the relationship between prenatal antibiotic use and ASD in children.
A comprehensive search was conducted in four main databases: Medline (OVID) PubMed Scopus and Web of Science up to August 1 2024. The analysis employed random-effect models to estimate effect sizes including hazard ratios (HR) and odds ratios (OR). Publication bias was assessed using Begg's test and Egger's regression test. Subgroup analyses explored variations in the association based on the trimester of pregnancy. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).
In this meta-analysis which included twelve studies with a total population of 6264831 prenatal antibiotic use was associated with an increased risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The estimated HR for this risk was 1.08 (95% CI: 1.05 1.12) and the OR was 1.16 (95% CI: 1.09 1.23) with no detected heterogeneity among studies. The analysis found no publication bias. Significant associations were observed for each trimester: first trimester (HR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.04 1.18) second trimester (HR: 1.10; 95% CI: 1.06 1.14) and third trimester (HR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.01 1.18).
The analysis showed that prenatal antibiotic use is a risk factor for ASD. Prenatal antibiotic use was associated with an increase in the risk of ASD across all trimesters of pregnancy. Future research should focus on elucidating the mechanisms underlying this association by examining the effects of specific antibiotic classes dosages and timing during critical developmental periods. Longitudinal studies with comprehensive control for confounding factors are essential for strengthening causal inferences and guiding clinical recommendations regarding antibiotic use during pregnancy.
CRD42024574755.
Effects of Breast Milk or Supplemented Formula Milk on Fecal Metabolomic Profile
Breast milk (BM) is the best option for the nutritional needs of an infant. In situations where breastfeeding is contraindicated donor human milk and formula milk (FM) are suggested as alternatives. This study highlights findings from two studies that evaluated how different dietary patterns (standard formula post-biotic fermented formula and breast milk) affected the intestinal microbiota and metabolome of late preterm and full-term infants. The metabolome of late preterm newborns showed a higher presence of metabolites-such as azelaic acid N-acetylglucosamine-6- sulfate and 13(S)-hydroperoxylinolenic acid-in those fed postbiotic-fermented formula similar to breastfed full-term newborns. The fecal metabolites of breast milk and substitute feeding systems are comparable in these preliminary studies confirming the effectiveness of formula preparations as breast milk substitutes. Furthermore newborns fed with postbiotic-supplemented formula or breast milk had several similarities in fecal metabolites. The addition of postbiotics to formula milk appears to be more efficient than standard formula milk and is considered a better alternative to breast milk.
Are Vaginal Suppositories of Quercus infectoria fruit hulls Effective on the Signs and Symptoms of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis? A Triple-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial
This study aims to compare the effects of Quercus Infectoria Fruit Hulls (QIFH) with Clotrimazole vaginal suppositories on the signs and symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) is an infection caused by Candida species. Although the antimicrobial effects of QIFH have been confirmed there is no clinical study on its effects on VVC.
One hundred married women (aged 18-45 years) with complaints of vulvar pruritus or burning were recruited for a triple-blind clinical trial at a health center affiliated with Khorramabad University of Medical Sciences. After a definitive diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis the eligible women were randomly divided into two groups: one receiving QIFH vaginal suppositories (n=45) and the other receiving Clotrimazole vaginal suppositories (n=45). The patients were instructed to use the medications for 7-10 nights. The symptoms and signs of VVC were compared before and after treatment within each group and between the two groups. The data were analyzed using SPSS 24 employing both parametric and non-parametric tests with a 95 percent confidence interval.
The symptoms and signs of VVC including pruritus burning and irritation vaginal discharge vaginal redness and swelling with white thick discharge significantly improved in both groups after treatment (p<0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups of QIFH vaginal suppository users and Clotrimazole users regarding the relief of signs and symptoms after treatment (p>0.05).
A study comparing Clotrimazole and QIFH vaginal suppositories found that Quercus infectoria extract effectively treated candida and reduced its growth. Treatment with QIFH significantly improved pruritus symptoms. The tannin ingredient in QIFH's tannins acted through various mechanisms providing therapeutic and antioxidant effects. QIFH could be an alternative for VVC treatment for women.
The QIFH vaginal suppository was as effective as Clotrimazole in treating the symptoms and signs of VVC without any adverse effects. Given the prevalence of VVC and the similarities in the treatment processes with QIFH and Clotrimazole it can be concluded that QIFH may be an appropriate alternative for VVC treatment for women who prefer to use herbal medicine.
Clinical Trial Registration No. IRCT20190306042943N2.
Investigating the Potential Quality Markers of Danxi Granule against Ischemic Stroke Using an Absorbed into Blood-Fingerprint-Network-Verification Approach
Cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS) severely endangers health and there is an urgent need for effective therapeutic drugs and in-depth research on its mechanism of action. Danxi Granule has potential application in the relevant treatment.
This study aimed to explore the potential quality markers therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of Danxi Granule in treating CIS through the “Absorbed into Blood- Fingerprint-Network-Verification” paradigm.
An MCAO rat model was established. Serum samples from three groups were analyzed by UPLC-MS to identify blood-absorbed prototype components. The fingerprint and measurable chemical components of Danxi Granule were obtained using specific chromatographic conditions. Potential quality markers were determined by cross-referencing. Network pharmacology with databases like GeneCards and OMIM and relevant software were used for gene identification and pathway enrichment analysis. Five identified compounds were tested in an OGD/R-induced HT22 cell model.
A total of 207 blood-absorbed prototype components were identified. Ten-batch fingerprint analysis of Danxi Granules showed high similarity with 15 common peaks (8 corresponding to measurable constituents). Five potential quality markers were determined. These compounds targeted 184 genes intersecting with 73 disease-related ones. Network analysis revealed 10 key genes and cellular experiments confirmed the protection of HT22 cells with TNF as a core target.
In this study an HPLC fingerprint was established using UPLC-MS technology and five potential Q-markers were screened out. Through network pharmacology and cell experiments these markers were validated to exert anti-CIS effects via mechanisms such as anti-inflammation thereby revealing the material basis of the pharmacological effects of Danxi Granules. The findings of this study provide a basis and new perspectives for quality standard research clinical application and the modernization of complex traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) systems. However the current mechanistic investigation remains at a superficial level and subsequent studies should further deepen the systematic exploration of the underlying action mechanisms.
The “absorbed into blood-fingerprint” paradigm identified five potential quality markers namely cryptotanshinone tanshinone IIA aurantio-obtusin icariin and paeoniflorin. Validation through the “network-verification” paradigm confirmed their quality marker status and demonstrated that their anti-CIS mechanisms likely involve suppressing TNF-α IL-6 and IL-1β expressions thereby exerting anti-inflammatory effects.
New Kampo Improves Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer’s Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment and Renal Function Decline in Chronic Kidney Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-related dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are often complicated by CKD. This study aims to identify a therapeutic agent that can improve cognitive function and alleviate chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients. It also explores the effectiveness of the combination of Ryoukeijutsukanto and Ourengedokuto (RO-8) a Kampo medicine for treating cognitive decline and renal function impairment in patients with co-morbid CKD.
In this retrospective single-center study patients with AD who visited the clinic were selected. Cognitive function and kidney function of all participants in the control and treatment groups were assessed using Hasegawa’s Dementia Scale (HDS-R) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) respectively. Statistical analyses were performed to measure the differences in the HDS-R scores and eGFR values before and after the observation or treatment period.
The Kampo medicine RO-8 improved cognitive function in 90.9% (70/77) of patients and cognitive decline in 3.9% (3/77) of patients with AD and MCI. At the same time 38.7% (29/75) of the patients with AD and MCI who were treated had chronic kidney disease (CKD) 65.5% (19/29) of which exhibited an improvement in the eGFR.
Despite being a single-center and retrospective study the findings underscore the potential of mixed Kampo medicine in restoring both cognitive and kidney function in patients with AD or MCI and CKD.
RO-8 may exert beneficial effects on cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s dementia and MCI through an anti-inflammatory pathway and can be further explored as an alternative anti-inflammatory drug to treat AD.
Postpartum Medicinal Plants of the Malay Tribe in Bentunai Village, Selakau Sub-District, Sambas District
Bentunai Village is located in Selakau District Sambas Regency West Kalimantan. The majority of the villagers are Malay tribes who have local wisdom regarding the use of medicinal plants after childbirth. Hence this study aimed to determine the types of plants plant parts and processing methods used by the Malay tribe in postpartum care.
The materials used were medicinal plants 70% alcohol for plant fixation plastic packing size 30x60 cm merang paper thick cardboard and tape. This research used triangulation techniques namely interviews observation and documentation.
There are 14 types of plants used by the Malay tribe of Bentunai Village for postpartum care namely sembung (Blumea balsamifera) balik angin (Mallotus paniculata (Lam.) M) patikan cina (Euphorbia sp.) cengkeh (Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr & L. M. Perry) lada (Piper nigrum L.) cabe jawa (Piper retrofractum Vahl.) ciplukan (Physalis angulata L.) kunyit (Curcuma longa L.) temulawak (Curcuma zanthorrhiza Roxb) lempuyang (Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Roscoe ex Sm.) jahe (Zingiber officinale Roscoe.) banglai (Zingiber purpureum Roscoe) kencur (Kaempferia galangan L.) and lengkuas hutan (Zingiber sp.).
In conclusion the most widely used plant family is Zingiberaceae the most widely used part is the leaves and there are three ways of processing plants namely boiled brewed and pounded.
A Review on the Therapeutic Potential of Herbal Remedies for Asthma
In modern society asthma has emerged as a highly prevalent and chronic health concern with its incidence and severity on the rise. This review's primary objective is to systematically assess the therapeutic potential of herbal interventions in the management of asthma. Herbal treatments have displayed noteworthy efficacy in alleviating asthmatic symptoms and improving control in a substantial subset of the afflicted population. While a multitude of pharmaceutical agents for asthma management exist their ability to deliver sustained symptom relief is often limited and concerns about unintended side effects have garnered considerable attention. Notable improvements in patient outcomes have been observed when traditional asthma therapies are complemented with herbal remedies. Given the widespread use of herbal supplements there is an urgent need for well-designed randomized clinical trials to establish the efficacy and safety of herbal medicines for asthma. Although anecdotal reports suggest relief from asthma symptoms through herbal supplementation a judicious and evidence-based approach is essential weighing a herb's efficacy against the quality of supporting studies and its established safety profile. Simultaneously our investigation encompassed an extensive dataset comprising 101 plants each characterized by diverse phytochemical categories and their respective quantifications. Alkaloids emerged as notably abundant signifying their ubiquity while several categories such as fatty acids iridoids phenylethanoids polyphenols polysaccharides sesquiterpene lactones steroids styryl lactones sulfur-containing compounds and xanthones were relatively rare. Notably the diversity within phenolic compounds especially the prevalence of flavonoids underscores their significance in botanical chemistry. Triterpenoids were identified as vital components within this dataset. This dataset not only enriches our understanding of phytochemical diversity but also provides a foundational resource for further scientific exploration. It equips researchers from diverse disciplines with essential insights that may catalyze the development of innovative therapies and pharmaceuticals. Therefore this dual approach investigating herbal interventions in asthma management and elucidating phytochemical richness substantially advances our scientific knowledge and holds promise for improving the quality of life for individuals living with asthma.
A Review: The Efficacy of Indonesian Traditional Herbal Remedies in Beauty and Skincare
Jamu is a longstanding traditional medicinal and health practice in Indonesia dating back thousands of years and deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage. The use of natural botanicals herbs and plant-based ingredients for personal care beauty and well-being has been prevalent in Indonesian palace traditions reflecting a rich tradition of indigenous knowledge and cultural practices. This review delves into the efficacy of these remedies particularly Jamu and traditional cosmetics in promoting and maintaining beauty. The exploration covers the historical background ingredients used preparation methods safety considerations and modern applications of these traditional practices. By examining scientific evidence and comparing them with commercial beauty products this review aims to provide insights into the potential of Indonesian traditional herbal remedies as valuable assets in modern skincare and beauty regimens. The methodology involves a comprehensive literature review of studies assessing the effectiveness and safety of key ingredients commonly used in Indonesian herbal remedies. The results highlight promising findings regarding the skin-enhancing properties of these herbal remedies along with considerations for their integration into contemporary beauty routines. This review underscores the significance of preserving and adapting traditional Indonesian beauty practices in the context of evolving skincare trends and consumer preferences. Various delivery systems such as lipid-based nanoencapsulation nanoemulsions nanoparticles silicone matrices and advanced emulsion technologies can be leveraged to improve the bioavailability stability and effectiveness of herbal ingredients in cosmetic formulations. However it is crucial to thoroughly assess the safety and quality of these natural ingredients through rigorous testing and regulatory oversight to ensure consumer safety.
The Effect of Ginger (Zingiber Officinale Roscoe) and Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) Supplementation on 17-β Estradiol Level, Quality of Life and Body Composition in Postmenopausal Women: Secondary Outcomes of a Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial
Further investigation is required to deeply understand the role of traditional medicines in menopause and their safe and effective usage.
To determine the effects of Zingiber officinale roscoe (ZO) and Curcuma longa (CL) supplementation on 17-β estradiol (ES) levels quality of life and body composition indices in postmenopausal women.
In this four-month randomized controlled trial women were recruited from the Tabriz health centers between 2018 and 2019 and randomly allocated to one of four groups: ZO tablet 1000 mg and CL placebo CL tablet 1000 mg and ZO placebo ZO tablet 1000 mg and CL tablet 1000 mg and ZO placebo and CL placebo.
One hundred and fifteen women completed this study. ZO (mean change (MC) = 3.18 (95% CI: 0.55 to 5.81)) resulted in a greater increase in serum ES than placebo. ZO (MC= -1.26 (95% CI: -2.78 to -0.72)) CL (MC=-1.21 (95% CI: -2.79 to -0.53)) and ZO + CL (MC=-1.69 (95% CI: -2.48 to -0.85)) resulted in greater improvements in total quality of life score compared to placebo (MC=-0.51(95% CI: -0.04 to 1.32)). A significant group difference favoring the ZO group compared to the placebo was detected for the vasomotor symptoms (MC= -1.03 (95% CI: -2.57 to -0.97)). No significant adverse events were noted.
Findings suggest ginger and turmeric alleviate menopausal symptoms and improve QoL potentially via estrogenic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. Inconsistent body composition results may be due to low bioavailability.
Ginger turmeric and their combination improved menopausal QoL with ginger benefiting vasomotor symptoms.
Registered in the Iranian clinical trial registry (IRCT20161022030424N3) on 2018-04-29.
Revolutionizing Dental Therapy: A Comprehensive Review on the Innovative Use of Natural Extracts in Tooth Care and Treatment
Natural extracts have a long history in traditional medicine for oral care. This review evaluates their integration into modern dentistry driven by consumer demand for holistic therapies and concerns over synthetic agents.
A comprehensive narrative review was conducted using PubMed Scopus and Google Scholar databases (up to 2024). The search focused on keywords related to natural extracts phytotherapy and dental conditions. Inclusion criteria prioritized clinical trials systematic reviews and mechanistic studies relevant to human dentistry. Data on mechanisms applications and challenges were thematically extracted and synthesized.
Numerous extracts including tea tree oil aloe vera neem and green tea demonstrate significant antimicrobial anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Evidence supports their use in managing gingivitis periodontitis caries and oral lesions. Innovations like nano-encapsulation and integration into biomaterials are enhancing their therapeutic efficacy.
While promising the widespread adoption of natural extracts is hindered by challenges in standardization regulatory oversight and the need for larger-scale clinical trials. Potential side effects and drug interactions require careful consideration by clinicians.
Natural extracts represent a valuable and evolving component of dental therapy. Ultimately this review provides a comprehensive evidence-based resource to guide clinical decision-making and direct future research in natural dental therapies.
In-vitro Antimicrobial Profiling and Standardization of a Classical Unani Polyherbal Formulation Targeting Uropathogens
A Polyherbal Unani Powder Formulation for Urinary Tract Infections (PUFP-UTI) comprises Adiantum capillus-veneris L. Cucumis sativus L. Lagenaria siceraria Malva sylvestris L. and Portulaca oleracea L. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics phytochemical composition quantification of luteolin using HPLC microbial safety and in vitro antibacterial activity to assess the quality efficacy and safety of the formulation.
Physicochemical analysis included organoleptic properties ash value density moisture content and extractive values. Phytochemical screening detected phenols tannins flavonoids alkaloids glycosides saponins terpenoids and sterols. Quantitative analysis measured total phenols tannins flavonoids and alkaloids. Luteolin content was quantified by HPLC. Microbial contamination was assessed following WHO guidelines. Antibacterial activity was tested against E. coli S. aureus K. pneumoniae E. faecalis P. mirabilis S. saprophyticus and P. aeruginosa using the agar well diffusion method.
PUFP-UTI exhibited acceptable physicochemical properties and contained significant amounts of phenols tannins flavonoids alkaloids and luteolin. The formulation met WHO safety standards for microbial contamination. It also showed substantial antibacterial activity against all tested pathogens. These results indicate that PUFP-UTI is a microbiologically safe herbal formulation with notable antimicrobial efficacy.
The presence of multiple phytoconstituents such as flavonoids and tannins along with measurable luteolin content may contribute to the observed antibacterial effect of PUFP-UTI. Its broad-spectrum activity against common uropathogens supports its pharmacological relevance. The formulation also complies with basic quality and safety benchmarks reinforcing its potential as a safe traditional remedy.
PUFP-UTI's antibacterial properties support its traditional use in treating urinary tract infections. Further stability studies and clinical trials are recommended to confirm its therapeutic potential.
Polyherbal Formulation Approaches for Managing Hypercholesterolemia: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda
Hypercholesterolemia is a commonly inherited metabolic condition that can result in ischemic heart disease. Due to the undesirable side effects associated with commercially accessible statin drugs herbal plants are emerging as a preferable alternative for managing and controlling hypercholesterolemia. Substantially Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda formulations have been reported to play a primary part in the hypercholesterolemia therapy. The inhibition of HMG-CoA Reductase (HMGCR) is significant since it is the key enzyme for cholesterol production which is crucial for reducing plasma cholesterol levels.
The present review aimed to explore in-depth TCM and Ayurveda polyherbal formulations along with their pharmacological activities especially on the serum lipid biomarkers including low-density lipoproteins triglycerides total cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins and their potential suppression against HMGCR activity. The review highlights the potential usage of polyherbal formulations for the management of hypercholesterolemia that could potentially be effective with minimal side effects.
TCM and Ayurveda are poly pharmacology systems that have been proven to exhibit better effects than single-targeted compounds in hypercholesterolemia. Polyherbal formulation involves interaction of multi-components that possess synergistic effects and able to replace the synthetic anti-hypercholesterolemia agents associated with side effects. It is the need of the hour to evaluate the integration of both TCM and Ayurveda polyherbal formulations as a strategy to maximize their potential and efficacy in hypercholesterolemia treatment since TCM and Ayurveda have been proven to be effective in combating hypercholesterolemia.
Investigating the Influence of 0.75% Ethanol Extract Gel from “Kaempferia galanga L Rhizoma” on Mild and Moderate Acne Vulgaris Among High School Students
Acne vulgaris is a prevalent dermatological condition characterized by the inflammation of sebaceous follicles. This inflammation results in various clinical manifestations including open and closed comedones papules pustules nodules and cysts which predominantly appear on the face. The impact of acne vulgaris extends beyond physical symptoms often affecting psychological well-being and quality of life particularly among adolescents. Given this condition's widespread prevalence and significant implications there is a pressing need for effective and accessible treatments.
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Kencur Rhizome Ethanol Extract Gel (Kaempferia galanga L. Rhizoma / KGR) on mild and moderate acne vulgaris lesions among high school students.
Twenty-four high school students were divided into three groups: Group 1 received 0.75% Kaempferia galanga rhizome ethanol extract gel Group 2 received a combination gel of 0.75% Kaempferia galanga ethanol extract and 75% benzoyl peroxide with 1% clindamycin gel and Group 3 received 1% clindamycin gel. The number of subjects in each group was determined using the G Power application. The distribution of gels was randomly assigned using the “Randomly Assign Subjects to Treatment Group” application. Before treatment blood samples were taken to measure IL-8 levels. After three weeks of treatment bilateral facial photographs were taken: one with the right side tilted at 45 degrees and the other with the left side tilted at 45 degrees. Blood samples were collected again for IL-8 measurement and high-resolution photographs of both sides of the face were taken to analyze acne lesions using the ImageJ application.
A combination of 0.75% KGR ethanol extract gel and 1% clindamycin gel significantly reduced the severity of AV lesions by affecting IL8 expression (p=0.042) in reducing the severity of mild and moderate AV lesions. For AV lesions using the ImageJ application the administration of group 2 gel (a combination of 0.75% KGR ethanol extract gel and 1% clindamycin gel) has a significant effect on reducing the severity of mild and moderate degrees of whitehead or blackhead (p = 0.030) and nodules (p = 0.035) in acne vulgaris.
A combination of 0.75% kencur rhizome ethanol extract gel and 1% clindamycin gel effectively alleviate acne vulgaris symptoms while also reducing inflammation of acne vulgaris lesions.
Mechanistic Insights into Jianpi Recipe's Amelioration of Sarcopenia Via miRNA Modulation
Sarcopenia characterized by a significant decline in muscle mass and strength poses a serious threat to the quality of life. Current treatment options are limited necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the efficacy and mechanism of Jianpi Recipe (JPR) a traditional Chinese medicine formulation in ameliorating Sarcopenia.
This study employed a dexamethasone (DEX)-induced muscle atrophy mouse model to evaluate the efficacy of JPR. miRNA sequencing was conducted to identify differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs). Enrichment analyses of target mRNAs were performed. The hub DEmiRNAs were identified by a Venn diagram and incorporated to construct a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network. Finally the hub DEmiRNAs were validated via RT-qPCR and correlation analysis.
JPR dose-dependently improved grip strength muscle mass and skeletal muscle histopathology. The miRNA sequencing identified 48 DEmiRNAs in the DEX vs. control group as well as in the DEX and medium-dose JPR(DEX+M-JPR) vs. DEX group. Enrichment analyses revealed significant pathways such as the Ras and Wnt signaling pathways which are involved in the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of JPR. Nine hub DEmiRNAs were identified with three (mmu-miR-423-3p mmu-miR-328-3p and mmu-miR-5621-3p) forming the ceRNA network. RT-qPCR showed that the expression levels of hub DEmiRNAs in control DEX and DEX+M - JPR groups were consistent with miRNA sequencing. Correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between hub DEmiRNAs and relative grip strength and gastrocnemius muscle index.
This study clarified the protective effects of JPR against Sarcopenia and the mechanisms underlying miRNA modulation.
JPR is suggested as a promising treatment for Sarcopenia.