greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Protective Effects of morin against depressive-like behavior prompted by chronic unpredictable mild

Protective Effects of morin against depressive-like behavior prompted by chronic unpredictable mild stress.

Depression is a common mental illness that possesses a noteworthy effect on patients ' lives .
Many theories are recently studied for their plausible involvement in depression pathogenesis , especially oxidative stress and inflammation .
Morin ( 2',3,4',5,7-pentahydroxyflavone ) , a natural flavonoid , is characterized by its potent anti-inflammatory , and anti-oxidant activities .
Accordingly , the aim of the current study was to investigate its potential protective anti-depressant effect in the model of chronic unpredictable mild stress ( CUMS ) in experimental rats .
Moreover , the conceivable neuro-protective mechanisms , especially those related to the inflammasome pathway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , unpredictable stressors were applied for 4 weeks concomitantly with the oral administration of morin ( 15 and 30 mg/Kg ) .
Morin hydrate supplementations exhibited a significant improvement in the scores of the forced swimming and sucrose preference tests .
In addition , it prompted a marked elevation in the ambulation , rearing as well as grooming scores of the open field test .
The morin-treated groups showed a great improvement in the biochemical parameters in both the cortex and hippocampus , where it significantly elevated the serotonin , epinephrine , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased reduced glutathione levels and decreased malondialdehyde levels .
Regarding the inflammasome pathway , morin significantly decreased the tissue levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha , toll-like receptor-4 , interleukin-1beta , NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein-3 , and caspase-1 levels .
Morin also significantly decreased the level of the key apoptotic marker , caspase-3 .
In conclusion , these findings propose that morin might show a promising anti-depressant effect .

Depression is a common mental illness that possesses a noteworthy effect on patients' lives. Many theories are recently studied for their plausible involvement in depression pathogenesis, especially oxidative stress and inflammation. Morin (2',3,4',5,7-pentahydroxyflavone), a natural flavonoid, is characterized by its potent anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant activities. Accordingly, the aim of the current study was to investigate its potential protective anti-depressant effect in the model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in experimental rats. Moreover, the conceivable neuro-protective mechanisms, especially those related to the inflammasome pathway, were explored. Several, mild, unpredictable stressors were applied for 4 weeks concomitantly with the oral administration of morin (15 and 30 mg/Kg). Morin hydrate supplementations exhibited a significant improvement in the scores of the forced swimming and sucrose preference tests. In addition, it prompted a marked elevation in the ambulation, rearing as well as grooming scores of the open field test. The morin-treated groups showed a great improvement in the biochemical parameters in both the cortex and hippocampus, where it significantly elevated the serotonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine levels. Also, it significantly increased reduced glutathione levels and decreased malondialdehyde levels. Regarding the inflammasome pathway, morin significantly decreased the tissue levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, toll-like receptor-4, interleukin-1beta, NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein-3, and caspase-1 levels. Morin also significantly decreased the level of the key apoptotic marker, caspase-3. In conclusion, these findings propose that morin might show a promising anti-depressant effect.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Paeoniflorin inhibits MRGPRX2-mediated pseudo-allergic reaction via calcium signaling pathway.

Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor-X2 ( MRGPRX2 ) expressed on mast cells ( MCs ) has been shown to be a @ @ @ @ @ .
Therefore , MRGPRX2 might be a therapeutic target for allergic contact dermatitis , atopic @ @ @ @ @ syndrome .
Paeoniflorin ( PF ) was reported to have an antiinflammatory effect in neuroinflammation @ @ @ @ @ forth .
In this study , we investigated the anti-pseudo-allergic effect of PF and the @ @ @ @ @ results showed that PF can suppress compound 48/80 ( C48/80 ) -induced PCA and MCs @ @ @ @ @ a dose-dependent manner .
Moreover , PF can reduce C48/80-induced calcium influx and suppress MC @ @ @ @ @ vitro .
PF can downregulate the phosphorylation levels of key kinases in PLCγ-regulated calcium influx @ @ @ @ @ .
Our study revealed that PF could inhibit C48/80-induced allergic responses both in vivo and @ @ @ @ @ , it may be regarded as a novel inhibitor for preventing MRGPRX2-mediated allergic diseases .

Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor-X2 (MRGPRX2) expressed on mast cells (MCs) has been shown to be a pivotal target for pseudo-allergic diseases. Therefore, MRGPRX2 might be a therapeutic target for allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and red man syndrome. Paeoniflorin (PF) was reported to have an antiinflammatory effect in neuroinflammation, enteritis, and so forth. In this study, we investigated the anti-pseudo-allergic effect of PF and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that PF can suppress compound 48/80 (C48/80)-induced PCA and MCs degranulation in vivo, in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, PF can reduce C48/80-induced calcium influx and suppress MC degranulation and chemokines release in vitro. PF can downregulate the phosphorylation levels of key kinases in PLCγ-regulated calcium influx and subsequent cytokine synthesis pathways. Our study revealed that PF could inhibit C48/80-induced allergic responses both in vivo and in vitro. As such, it may be regarded as a novel inhibitor for preventing MRGPRX2-mediated allergic diseases.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin inhibits Th17 cell differentiation and ameliorates imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin le

Astilbin inhibits Th17 cell differentiation and ameliorates imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like skin lesions.

The flavonoid astilbin is the major active component extracted from the rhizome of Smilax glabra , which has been widely used in China to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases , Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory disease in which T helper 17 ( Th17 ) cells play an important role , provoking inflammation .
We employed an imiquimod ( IMQ ) -induced psoriasis-like mouse model to investigate the effect of astilbin in inflammation .
Mice were administered 25 to 50mg/kg astilbin .
Inflammation of psoriasis-like lesions was assessed by histology , circulating levels of T cells were assessed by flow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jak/Stat3 in isolated T cells was assessed by Western blotting and RORγt expression was assessed by RT-PCR .
Administration of astilbin ameliorated IMQ-induced keratinocyte proliferation , infiltration of CD3+ cells to psoriatic lesions and ameliorated elevations in circulating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and inflammatory cytokines ( IL-17A , TNF-α , IL-6 , IFN-γ and IL-2 ) .
Invitro , astilbin inhibited Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17 secretion of isolated T cells , and inhibited Jak/Stat3 signaling in Th17 cells , while up-regulating Stat3 inhibitor SCOSE3 expression in psoriatic lesions .
Thus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inhibiting Th17 related inflammation .
Astilbin represents as an interesting candidate drug for immunoregulation of psoriasis .

The flavonoid astilbin is the major active component extracted from the rhizome of Smilax glabra, which has been widely used in China to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory disease in which T helper 17 (Th17) cells play an important role, provoking inflammation. We employed an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like mouse model to investigate the effect of astilbin in inflammation. Mice were administered 25 to 50mg/kg astilbin. Inflammation of psoriasis-like lesions was assessed by histology, circulating levels of T cells were assessed by flow cytometry and cytokines by bead-based immunoassay. Jak/Stat3 in isolated T cells was assessed by Western blotting and RORγt expression was assessed by RT-PCR. Administration of astilbin ameliorated IMQ-induced keratinocyte proliferation, infiltration of CD3+ cells to psoriatic lesions and ameliorated elevations in circulating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and inflammatory cytokines (IL-17A, TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ and IL-2). Invitro, astilbin inhibited Th17 cell differentiation and IL-17 secretion of isolated T cells, and inhibited Jak/Stat3 signaling in Th17 cells, while up-regulating Stat3 inhibitor SCOSE3 expression in psoriatic lesions. Thus, astilbin likely alleviates psoriasis-like skin lesions by inhibiting Th17 related inflammation. Astilbin represents as an interesting candidate drug for immunoregulation of psoriasis.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin alleviates lipopolysaccharide -induced acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome ( ARDS ) is a devastating disorder that is characterized by increased vascular endothelial permeability and inflammation .
Unfortunately , no effective treatment beyond supportive care is available for ARDS .
Astilbin , a flavonoid compound isolated from Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae , has been used for anti-hepatic , anti-arthritic , and anti-renal injury treatments .
This study examined the effects of Astilbin on pulmonary inflammatory activation and endothelial cell barrier dysfunction caused by Gram-negative bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) .
Endothelial cells from human umbilical veins or male Kunming mice were pretreated with Astilbin 24h @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Astilbin significantly attenuated the pulmonary histopathological changes and neutrophil infiltration 6h after the LPS challenge .
Astilbin suppressed the activities of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde , as well as the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 in vivo and in vitro .
As indices of pulmonary edema , lung wet-to-dry weight ratios , were markedly decreased by Astilbin pretreatment .
Western blot analysis also showed that Astilbin inhibited LPS-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) pathways in lung tissues .
Furthermore , Astilbin significantly inhibited the activity of heparanase and reduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood serum as determined by ELISA .
These findings indicated that Astilbin can alleviate LPS-induced ARDS , which potentially contributed to the suppression of MAPK pathway activation and the degradation of endothelial glycocalyx .

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a devastating disorder that is characterized by increased vascular endothelial permeability and inflammation. Unfortunately, no effective treatment beyond supportive care is available for ARDS. Astilbin, a flavonoid compound isolated from Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae, has been used for anti-hepatic, anti-arthritic, and anti-renal injury treatments. This study examined the effects of Astilbin on pulmonary inflammatory activation and endothelial cell barrier dysfunction caused by Gram-negative bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Endothelial cells from human umbilical veins or male Kunming mice were pretreated with Astilbin 24h before LPS stimulation. Results showed that Astilbin significantly attenuated the pulmonary histopathological changes and neutrophil infiltration 6h after the LPS challenge. Astilbin suppressed the activities of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde, as well as the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 in vivo and in vitro. As indices of pulmonary edema, lung wet-to-dry weight ratios, were markedly decreased by Astilbin pretreatment. Western blot analysis also showed that Astilbin inhibited LPS-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways in lung tissues. Furthermore, Astilbin significantly inhibited the activity of heparanase and reduced the production of heparan sulfate in the blood serum as determined by ELISA. These findings indicated that Astilbin can alleviate LPS-induced ARDS, which potentially contributed to the suppression of MAPK pathway activation and the degradation of endothelial glycocalyx.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin improves potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia and kidney injury.

Astilbin is a flavonoid compound derived from the rhizome of Smilax china L. The effects and possible molecular mechanisms of astilbin on potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia mice were investigated in this study .
Different dosages of astilbin ( 5 , 10 , and 20mg/kg ) were administered to induce hyperuricemic mice .
The results demonstrated that the serum uric acid ( Sur ) level was significantly decreased by increasing the urinary uric acid ( Uur ) level and fractional excretion of urate ( FEUA ) with astilbin , related with suppressing role in meditation of Glucose transporter 9 ( GLUT9 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) expression and up-regulation of ABCG2 , Organic anion transporter 1/3 ( OAT1/3 ) and Organic cation transporter 1 ( OCT1 ) .
In addition , kidney function parameters , including serum creatinine ( Scr ) and blood urea nitrogen ( BUN ) were restored in astilbin-treated hyperuricemic rats .
Further investigation indicated that astilbin prevented the renal damage against the expression of Thioredoxin-interacting protein ( TXNIP ) and its related inflammation signal pathway , including NLR pyrin domain-containing 3/Nuclear factorκB ( NLRP3/NF-κB ) , which is associated with the up-regulation of interleukin-1β @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , and also presented a renal protective role by suppression oxidative stress .
Moreover , astilbin inhibited activation of the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 ( JAK2/STAT3 ) cascade and over-expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 ( SOCS3 ) in the kidneys of potassium oxonate-induced mice .
These findings provide potent evidence and therapeutic strategy for astilbin as a safe and promising compound in the development of a disease-modifying drug due to its function against hyperuricaemia and renal injury induced by potassium oxonate .

Astilbin is a flavonoid compound derived from the rhizome of Smilax china L. The effects and possible molecular mechanisms of astilbin on potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia mice were investigated in this study. Different dosages of astilbin (5, 10, and 20mg/kg) were administered to induce hyperuricemic mice. The results demonstrated that the serum uric acid (Sur) level was significantly decreased by increasing the urinary uric acid (Uur) level and fractional excretion of urate (FEUA) with astilbin, related with suppressing role in meditation of Glucose transporter 9 (GLUT9), Human urate transporter 1 (URAT1) expression and up-regulation of ABCG2, Organic anion transporter 1/3 (OAT1/3) and Organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1). In addition, kidney function parameters, including serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were restored in astilbin-treated hyperuricemic rats. Further investigation indicated that astilbin prevented the renal damage against the expression of Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and its related inflammation signal pathway, including NLR pyrin domain-containing 3/Nuclear factorκB (NLRP3/NF-κB), which is associated with the up-regulation of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18), and also presented a renal protective role by suppression oxidative stress. Moreover, astilbin inhibited activation of the Janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) cascade and over-expression of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) in the kidneys of potassium oxonate-induced mice. These findings provide potent evidence and therapeutic strategy for astilbin as a safe and promising compound in the development of a disease-modifying drug due to its function against hyperuricaemia and renal injury induced by potassium oxonate.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin may be a promising agent for psoriasis treatment.

Psoriasis is a common chronic dermatosis characterized by keratinocyte hyperproliferation accompanied by inflammatory reactions .
Pathological changes upset the balance @ @ @ @ @ , and death in psoriatic lesions , suggesting that molecules with topical anti-inflammatory , anti-proliferation @ @ @ @ @ useful for its treatment .
The flavonoid astilbin is the major active component extracted from @ @ @ @ @ , which has been widely used in China to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases .
@ @ @ @ @ potential of astilbin as a treatment for psoriasis .
We reveal that astilbin inhibits the @ @ @ @ @ Detailed study shows that astilbin leads to S phase arrest of the cell cycle by @ @ @ @ @ and activated-AMPK .
Additionally , astilbin induced keratinocyte differentiation correlated with suppression of keratin 5 @ @ @ @ @ proteins ( the markers of epidermal basal layer ) and induction KRT1 and KRT10 proteins @ @ @ @ @ layers ) .
Moreover , astilbin regulates the expression of VEGF in human HaCaT keratinocytes @ @ @ @ @ astilbin may be a promising agent for psoriasis treatment .

Psoriasis is a common chronic dermatosis characterized by keratinocyte hyperproliferation accompanied by inflammatory reactions. Pathological changes upset the balance between keratinocyte proliferation, differentiation, and death in psoriatic lesions, suggesting that molecules with topical anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferation and anti-angiogenesis abilities may be useful for its treatment. The flavonoid astilbin is the major active component extracted from the rhizome of Smilax glabra, which has been widely used in China to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Here, we investigate the potential of astilbin as a treatment for psoriasis. We reveal that astilbin inhibits the growth of HaCaT keratinocytes. Detailed study shows that astilbin leads to S phase arrest of the cell cycle by induction of p53 and p21 and activated-AMPK. Additionally, astilbin induced keratinocyte differentiation correlated with suppression of keratin 5 (KRT5) and KRT14 proteins (the markers of epidermal basal layer) and induction KRT1 and KRT10 proteins (occurring in the upper layers). Moreover, astilbin regulates the expression of VEGF in human HaCaT keratinocytes. These results suggest that astilbin may be a promising agent for psoriasis treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin alleviates sepsis-induced acute lung injury.

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome caused by severe infections .
Astilbin is a dihydroflavonol derivative found in many medicinal and food plants with multiple pharmacological functions .
To investigate the effects of astilbin on sepsis-induced acute lung injury ( ALI ) , cecal ligation and puncture was performed on rats to establish a sepsis-induced ALI model ; these rats were then treated with astilbin at different concentrations .
Lung injury scores , including lung wet/dry ratio , protein leakage , myeloperoxidase activity , and inflammatory cell infiltration were determined to evaluate the effects of astilbin on sepsis-induced ALI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attenuates sepsis-induced lung injury and improves survival rate , lung injury scores , lung wet/dry ratio , protein leakage , myeloperoxidase activity , and inflammatory cell infiltration .
Astilbin treatment also dramatically decreased the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid .
Further , astilbin treatment inhibited the expression and production of macrophage inhibitory factor ( MIF ) , which inhibits the inflammatory response .
Collectively , these data suggest that astilbin has a protective effect against sepsis-induced ALI by inhibiting MIF-mediated inflammatory responses .
This study provides a molecular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment for sepsis-induced ALI .

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome caused by severe infections. Astilbin is a dihydroflavonol derivative found in many medicinal and food plants with multiple pharmacological functions. To investigate the effects of astilbin on sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI), cecal ligation and puncture was performed on rats to establish a sepsis-induced ALI model; these rats were then treated with astilbin at different concentrations. Lung injury scores, including lung wet/dry ratio, protein leakage, myeloperoxidase activity, and inflammatory cell infiltration were determined to evaluate the effects of astilbin on sepsis-induced ALI. We found that astilbin treatment significantly attenuates sepsis-induced lung injury and improves survival rate, lung injury scores, lung wet/dry ratio, protein leakage, myeloperoxidase activity, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Astilbin treatment also dramatically decreased the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Further, astilbin treatment inhibited the expression and production of macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF), which inhibits the inflammatory response. Collectively, these data suggest that astilbin has a protective effect against sepsis-induced ALI by inhibiting MIF-mediated inflammatory responses. This study provides a molecular basis for astilbin as a new medical treatment for sepsis-induced ALI.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Smilax glabra Roxb. ameliorates renal oxidative stress and inflammation in uric acid nephropathy.

Uric acid metabolic disorder is considered to be the main pathogenesis of uric acid nephropathy ( UN ) .
Smilax glabra Roxb .
is a traditional Chinese herb which has been used in the treatment of gout , but the mechanism was unclear .
In this study , we investigated the protective effects of the flavonoid-rich fraction from rhizomes of Smilax glabra Roxb .
( SGF ) on uric acid nephropathy rats and its underlying mechanisms of promoting uric acid excretion .
Sprague Dawley ( SD ) rats were induced by high purine diet ( yeast pellets + adenine ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treated with SGF or allopurinol daily .
The biochemical parameters and enzymes in different treated rats were determined by commercial kits .
Kidney pathology was visualized using optical microscopy and electron microscopy .
Renal inflammatory factors weredetected by ELISA .
Renal fibrosis factors and uric acid transporters were analyzed by real time RT-PCR and western blot .
The results showed that SGF significantly improved kidney function .
Histopathologic examination revealed that urate-induced renal damage was markedly reversed by SGF .
Meanwhile , SGF treatment was also found to significantly inhibit renal oxidative stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factors of interleukin-6 ( IL-6 ) , tumor necrosis factor alpha ( TNF-α ) , interleukin-1β ( IL-1β ) , cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2 ) and the profibrotic factors of basic fibroblast growth factor ( bFGF ) , transforming growth factor-β ( TGF-β ) expression in UN rats .
Moreover , SGF either significantly inhibited uric acid production or promoted uric acid excretion in UN rats .
The mechanism of SGF promoting uric acid excretion was related to its increase of ATP-binding cassette transporter G2 ( ABCG2 ) , organic anion transporter 1 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( OCT2 ) and organic cation/carnitine transporters 2 ( OCTN2 ) expression .
In conclusion , SGF could ameliorate renal oxidative stress and inflammation in UN rats through promoting uric acid excretion .

Uric acid metabolic disorder is considered to be the main pathogenesis of uric acid nephropathy (UN). Smilax glabra Roxb. is a traditional Chinese herb which has been used in the treatment of gout, but the mechanism was unclear. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of the flavonoid-rich fraction from rhizomes of Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGF) on uric acid nephropathy rats and its underlying mechanisms of promoting uric acid excretion. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were induced by high purine diet (yeast pellets + adenine) for 5 weeks. Rats were orally treated with SGF or allopurinol daily. The biochemical parameters and enzymes in different treated rats were determined by commercial kits. Kidney pathology was visualized using optical microscopy and electron microscopy. Renal inflammatory factors weredetected by ELISA. Renal fibrosis factors and uric acid transporters were analyzed by real time RT-PCR and western blot. The results showed that SGF significantly improved kidney function. Histopathologic examination revealed that urate-induced renal damage was markedly reversed by SGF. Meanwhile, SGF treatment was also found to significantly inhibit renal oxidative stress. SGF treatment obviously suppressed the inflammatory factors of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the profibrotic factors of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β) expression in UN rats. Moreover, SGF either significantly inhibited uric acid production or promoted uric acid excretion in UN rats. The mechanism of SGF promoting uric acid excretion was related to its increase of ATP-binding cassette transporter G2 (ABCG2), organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1), organic anion transporters 2 (OCT2) and organic cation/carnitine transporters 2 (OCTN2) expression. In conclusion, SGF could ameliorate renal oxidative stress and inflammation in UN rats through promoting uric acid excretion.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Smilax glabra inhibits collagen induced adhesion and migration of PC3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cell

Smilax glabra inhibits collagen induced adhesion and migration of PC3 and LNCaP prostate cancer cells.

Roxb .
( SGR ) has been used as a traditional medicine for brucellosis and syphilis .
In this study , we investigated whether nontoxicological levels of water extract of SGR ( WESGR ) are effective for suppressing steps in the progression of prostate cancer , such as collagen-mediated migration and adhesion and identified the target molecule responsible for such effects .
We found that nontoxicological levels of WESGR did not attenuate PC3 and LNCaP cell adhesion to serum but did significantly do so with collagen .
In addition , using the Boyden chamber assay , we found that nontoxicological @ @ @ @ @ @ @ migration of PC3 and LNCaP cells to a serum-coated area but did significantly attenuate migration to a collagen-coated area .
Interestingly , the expression ofα2β1 integrin , a known receptor of collagen , was not affected by ectopic administration of WESGR .
However , WESGR significantly attenuated the expression of β1 integrin , but not α2 integrin when PC3 and LNCaP cells were placed on a collagen-coated plate , resulting in attenuation of focal adherentkinase phosphorylation .
Finally , 5 -- caffeoylquinic acid was determined as a functional single component which is responsible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taken together , our results suggest a novel molecular mechanism for WESGR-mediated antiprostate cancer effects at particular steps such as with migration and adhesion to collagen , and it could provide the possibility of therapeutic use of WESGR against prostate cancer progression .

Roxb. (SGR) has been used as a traditional medicine for brucellosis and syphilis. In this study, we investigated whether nontoxicological levels of water extract of SGR (WESGR) are effective for suppressing steps in the progression of prostate cancer, such as collagen-mediated migration and adhesion and identified the target molecule responsible for such effects. We found that nontoxicological levels of WESGR did not attenuate PC3 and LNCaP cell adhesion to serum but did significantly do so with collagen. In addition, using the Boyden chamber assay, we found that nontoxicological levels of WESGR did not inhibit the migration of PC3 and LNCaP cells to a serum-coated area but did significantly attenuate migration to a collagen-coated area. Interestingly, the expression ofα2β1 integrin, a known receptor of collagen, was not affected by ectopic administration of WESGR. However, WESGR significantly attenuated the expression of β1 integrin, but not α2 integrin when PC3 and LNCaP cells were placed on a collagen-coated plate, resulting in attenuation of focal adherentkinase phosphorylation. Finally, 5--caffeoylquinic acid was determined as a functional single component which is responsible for antiprostate cancer effects of WESGR. Taken together, our results suggest a novel molecular mechanism for WESGR-mediated antiprostate cancer effects at particular steps such as with migration and adhesion to collagen, and it could provide the possibility of therapeutic use of WESGR against prostate cancer progression.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin from Smilax glabra attenuates inflammatory responses.

Astilbin , a flavonoid compound , was isolated from the rhizome ofRoxb .
( with red cross-section ) grown in Guizhou Province , China .
We accessed its effect and potential mechanism on attenuation of the inflammatory response in CFA-induced AA rats .
Our results showed that daily oral administration of astilbin at 5.3 mg/kg reduced joint damage in the hind paw of AA rats .
Accordingly , astilbin exhibited remarkable inhibitory effects on TNF- , IL-1 , and IL-6 mRNA expression .
Significant decrease of serum cytokine levels of TNF- , IL-1 , and IL-6 was also observed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AA rats .
The reduced expression of these cytokines was associated with protein activity suppression of three key molecular targets in the pathogenesis of RA , including IKK , NF-B p65 subunit , and TLR adaptor MyD88 .
Furthermore , the therapeutic effects of astilbin on the inhibition of cytokines production as well as the reduction of inflammatory response in AA rats are close to a commonly used antirheumatic drug , leflunomide .
Collectively , our data suggest that the action mechanism of astilbin , as an anti-inflammatory agent for RA treatment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proinflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the expression of key elements in NF-B signaling pathway mediated by TLR .

Astilbin, a flavonoid compound, was isolated from the rhizome ofRoxb. (with red cross-section) grown in Guizhou Province, China. We accessed its effect and potential mechanism on attenuation of the inflammatory response in CFA-induced AA rats. Our results showed that daily oral administration of astilbin at 5.3 mg/kg reduced joint damage in the hind paw of AA rats. Accordingly, astilbin exhibited remarkable inhibitory effects on TNF-, IL-1, and IL-6 mRNA expression. Significant decrease of serum cytokine levels of TNF-, IL-1, and IL-6 was also observed in astilbin-treated AA rats compared to the vehicle-treated AA rats. The reduced expression of these cytokines was associated with protein activity suppression of three key molecular targets in the pathogenesis of RA, including IKK, NF-B p65 subunit, and TLR adaptor MyD88. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of astilbin on the inhibition of cytokines production as well as the reduction of inflammatory response in AA rats are close to a commonly used antirheumatic drug, leflunomide. Collectively, our data suggest that the action mechanism of astilbin, as an anti-inflammatory agent for RA treatment, is associated with modulating the production of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the expression of key elements in NF-B signaling pathway mediated by TLR.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin ameliorates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Oxidative stress and inflammation are considered to be the main pathogenesis of cisplatin nephrotoxicity .
Astilbin , a flavonoid with anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation function , has been used to treat heavy metal induced kidney injury .
In this study , we investigated the protective effects of astilbin on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and its underlying mechanisms .
Our results showed that astilbin markedly inhibited cisplatin-induced cell apoptosis and recovered cell growth .
Astilbin significantly decreased reactive oxygen species ( ROS ) accumulation and alleviated ROS-induced activation of p53 , MAPKs and AKT signaling cascades , which in turn attenuated cisplatin-induced HEK-293 cell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and transcription of its targeting antioxidant genes to reduce ROS accumulation in cisplatin-induced HEK-293 cells .
Furthermore , we found that astilbin obviously suppressed tumor necrosis factor alpha ( TNF-α ) expression and NF-κB activation , and also inhibited the expression of induced nitric oxide synthase ( iNOS ) and cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2 ) .
Finally , we confirmed that the effect of astilbin to improve renal oxidative stress and inflammation in cisplatin induced acute nephrotoxic mice .
In conclusion , our study suggests thatastilbin could ameliorate the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by reducing oxidative @ @ @ @

Oxidative stress and inflammation are considered to be the main pathogenesis of cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Astilbin, a flavonoid with anti-oxidation and anti-inflammation function, has been used to treat heavy metal induced kidney injury. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of astilbin on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and its underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that astilbin markedly inhibited cisplatin-induced cell apoptosis and recovered cell growth. Astilbin significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and alleviated ROS-induced activation of p53, MAPKs and AKT signaling cascades, which in turn attenuated cisplatin-induced HEK-293 cell apoptosis. Astilbin effectively enhanced NRF2 activation and transcription of its targeting antioxidant genes to reduce ROS accumulation in cisplatin-induced HEK-293 cells. Furthermore, we found that astilbin obviously suppressed tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) expression and NF-κB activation, and also inhibited the expression of induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Finally, we confirmed that the effect of astilbin to improve renal oxidative stress and inflammation in cisplatin induced acute nephrotoxic mice. In conclusion, our study suggests thatastilbin could ameliorate the cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis via blockade of Hedgehog signaling pathway.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE : The nature of pulmonary fibrosis involves inadequate repair of the epithelial cell barrier accompanied by impaired regulation of the fibroblast .
Moreover , pulmonary fibrosis currently lacks an effective therapeutic drug .
This study targets the protection of the epithelial cell and fibroblast to identify a novel , potentially therapeutic drug ( i.e.
, astilbin ) .
METHODS : In this study , the cytotoxicity of astilbin was firstly detected using CCK-8 .
A real-time proliferation/migration analysis system was used to test the inhibitory proliferation and migration of astilbin in vitro .
The expression of mesenchymal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ markers were analyzed to evaluate the antifibrotic activity of astilbin on TGF-β1-treated AEC-II and L929 cells and bleomycin-treated mice .
Then , in fibrosis-associated signaling pathways , the regulation of astilbin was tested using RNA sequencing and Cignal Finder 45-Pathway system .
Rescue and other experiments were used to confirm this pathway regulation further .
RESULTS : The data showed that astilbin inhibited proliferation and migration of cell samples .
Its treatment resulted in the reduction of pathological score and collagen deposition , with a decrease inα-SMA and Snail and an increase in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vitro .
The fibrosis-associated aberrant genes are some of the most notable components of the Hedgehog signaling pathway .
CONCLUSIONS : Astilbin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis via blockade of Hedgehog signaling pathway and has potential therapeutic value for lung fibrosis treatment .

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The nature of pulmonary fibrosis involves inadequate repair of the epithelial cell barrier accompanied by impaired regulation of the fibroblast. Moreover, pulmonary fibrosis currently lacks an effective therapeutic drug. This study targets the protection of the epithelial cell and fibroblast to identify a novel, potentially therapeutic drug (i.e., astilbin).
METHODS: In this study, the cytotoxicity of astilbin was firstly detected using CCK-8. A real-time proliferation/migration analysis system was used to test the inhibitory proliferation and migration of astilbin in vitro. The expression of mesenchymal markers and the loss of epithelial cell markers were analyzed to evaluate the antifibrotic activity of astilbin on TGF-β1-treated AEC-II and L929 cells and bleomycin-treated mice. Then, in fibrosis-associated signaling pathways, the regulation of astilbin was tested using RNA sequencing and Cignal Finder 45-Pathway system. Rescue and other experiments were used to confirm this pathway regulation further.
RESULTS: The data showed that astilbin inhibited proliferation and migration of cell samples. Its treatment resulted in the reduction of pathological score and collagen deposition, with a decrease inα-SMA and Snail and an increase in E-cadherin and SP-C in vivo and in vitro. The fibrosis-associated aberrant genes are some of the most notable components of the Hedgehog signaling pathway.
CONCLUSIONS: Astilbin ameliorates pulmonary fibrosis via blockade of Hedgehog signaling pathway and has potential therapeutic value for lung fibrosis treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-17--Astilbin inhibits high glucose-induced autophagy and apoptosis.

Diabetic nephropathy ( DN ) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease .
It has been found that astilbin , a flavonoid compound , exerts a protective effect on DN .
However , the role of astilbin in autophagy during DN is unknown .
The human proximal tubular epithelial cells ( HK-2 cells ) were treated with high glucose ( HG , 30 mM ) in the presence or absence of astilbin .
Cell viability was measured by MTT assay .
The autophagy was determined by detecting the expression of LC3-II and p62 using western blot .
The cell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate , caspase-3 activity , and the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax .
The expression levels of protein kinase B ( Akt ) and p-Akt were detected by western blot .
To determine whether the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase ( PI3K ) /Akt pathway was involved in the effect of astilbin , cells were treated with the inhibitor of Akt , LY294002 .
We found that astilbin ( 10 and 20 μM ) did not affect the viability of HK-2 cells , but attenuated HG-induced cell viability .
Astilbin attenuated HG-induced autophagy and apoptosis in HK-2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inhibited by HG treatment , while the inhibitory effect of HG was attenuated by astilbin .
Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling resisted the effect of astilbin on HG-induced apoptosis and autophagy .
In conclusion , astilbin attenuated HG-induced autophagy and apoptosis in HK-2 cells through the PI3K/Akt pathway .
The results indicated that astilbin might be a new therapeutic agent and be useful for improving clinical management of DN .

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. It has been found that astilbin, a flavonoid compound, exerts a protective effect on DN. However, the role of astilbin in autophagy during DN is unknown. The human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells) were treated with high glucose (HG, 30 mM) in the presence or absence of astilbin. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. The autophagy was determined by detecting the expression of LC3-II and p62 using western blot. The cell apoptosis was evaluated by detecting the apoptosis rate, caspase-3 activity, and the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax. The expression levels of protein kinase B (Akt) and p-Akt were detected by western blot. To determine whether the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway was involved in the effect of astilbin, cells were treated with the inhibitor of Akt, LY294002. We found that astilbin (10 and 20 μM) did not affect the viability of HK-2 cells, but attenuated HG-induced cell viability. Astilbin attenuated HG-induced autophagy and apoptosis in HK-2 cells. The expression of p-Akt was inhibited by HG treatment, while the inhibitory effect of HG was attenuated by astilbin. Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling resisted the effect of astilbin on HG-induced apoptosis and autophagy. In conclusion, astilbin attenuated HG-induced autophagy and apoptosis in HK-2 cells through the PI3K/Akt pathway. The results indicated that astilbin might be a new therapeutic agent and be useful for improving clinical management of DN.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Anxiolytic-like effects of Moringa oleifera in Swiss mice.

Moringa oleifera is evident to act against many neurological diseases , including muscle spasm , epilepsy , nervousness , fatigue , memory impairment , convulsion , and epilepsy .
Anxiety represents the most common and disabling psychiatric condition , being often associated with depressive symptoms .
This study investigated the anxiolytic-like effects of crude organic fractions of M. oleifera leaves in different behavioral paradigms that evaluate anxiety in mice .
To this end , mice were administered with crude extracts ( 500 mg/kg , p.o . )
and/or diazepam ( 2 mg/kg , p.o . )
, and submitted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the number of square field cross , grooming and rearing were calculated , while in light-dark and swing test were , respectively , the time spent in dark portion and number of swings .
Each test was performed for 3 min .
M. oleifera leaf methanol and n-hexane extracts elicited an anxiolytic-like effect observed by increased total time in the center and decreased number of rearings and groomings responses in the open field and swing tests , and residence in the dark portion in the light-dark box , similar to the diazepam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ observed in the aqueous fraction group , while insignificant effects were recorded in the ethyl acetate fraction group in all test paradigms .
In addition , both extracts potentiate the calming effects of diazepam in experimental animals .
Preliminary phytochemical reports suggest that M. oleifera contains alkaloids , flavonoids , phenols , steroids , glycosides , saponins , tannin , terpenes , and gums .
Of note , the results expand the understanding of M. oleifera effects in central nervous system and suggest that plant metabolites may be helpful for anxiety-related disorders management @

Moringa oleifera is evident to act against many neurological diseases, including muscle spasm, epilepsy, nervousness, fatigue, memory impairment, convulsion, and epilepsy. Anxiety represents the most common and disabling psychiatric condition, being often associated with depressive symptoms. This study investigated the anxiolytic-like effects of crude organic fractions of M. oleifera leaves in different behavioral paradigms that evaluate anxiety in mice. To this end, mice were administered with crude extracts (500 mg/kg, p.o.) and/or diazepam (2 mg/kg, p.o.), and submitted to behavioral tests. In the open-field test, the number of square field cross, grooming and rearing were calculated, while in light-dark and swing test were, respectively, the time spent in dark portion and number of swings. Each test was performed for 3 min. M. oleifera leaf methanol and n-hexane extracts elicited an anxiolytic-like effect observed by increased total time in the center and decreased number of rearings and groomings responses in the open field and swing tests, and residence in the dark portion in the light-dark box, similar to the diazepam group. A moderate anxiolytic effect was observed in the aqueous fraction group, while insignificant effects were recorded in the ethyl acetate fraction group in all test paradigms. In addition, both extracts potentiate the calming effects of diazepam in experimental animals. Preliminary phytochemical reports suggest that M. oleifera contains alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, glycosides, saponins, tannin, terpenes, and gums. Of note, the results expand the understanding of M. oleifera effects in central nervous system and suggest that plant metabolites may be helpful for anxiety-related disorders management.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--M. oleifera supplementation might be beneficial for the development and improvement of targeted ther

The inadequacy of effective treatment approaches for prostate cancer enlightens the crucial necessity for the search and emergence of novel and multitasking anticancer substances .
Several experimental studies suggested the role of natural compounds in prostate cancer growth inhibition by Hedgehog signaling modulation .
In the current study , we suggested the anticancer and apoptosis inducing effects of Moringa oleifera ( M. oleifera ) were linked to downregulation of Hedgehog pathway in PC-3 prostate cancer cells .
We found that M. oleifera leaves methanolic extract exhibited significant anticancerous potential by inducing ROS-mediated apoptosis and activation of caspase-3 activity in prostate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ G0/G1 cell cycle arrest as well as significant alteration in mRNA expression of apoptosis related and Hedgehog signaling pathway genes by M. oleifera extract treatment .
Altogether , these experimental findings demonstrated that M. oleifera may exert antiproliferative apoptosis inducing effects by Hedgehog signaling pathway downregulation .
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS : Moringa oleifera plant , a rich nutrional source , has extensive range of pharmacological applications including antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , and anticancer activity .
To best of our knowledge , this could be the first intensive report which presented the inhibitory potential of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cancer cells via targeting key molecules of Hedgehog signaling .
Decreased mRNA expression of GLI1 transcription factor and SMO protein of Hedgehog signaling pathway may be involved in antiproliferative effects of M. oleifera leaves extract against prostate cancer cells .
Our study suggested that M. oleifera supplementation might be beneficial for the development and improvement of targeted therapeutic strategies in prostate cancer cells .

The inadequacy of effective treatment approaches for prostate cancer enlightens the crucial necessity for the search and emergence of novel and multitasking anticancer substances. Several experimental studies suggested the role of natural compounds in prostate cancer growth inhibition by Hedgehog signaling modulation. In the current study, we suggested the anticancer and apoptosis inducing effects of Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) were linked to downregulation of Hedgehog pathway in PC-3 prostate cancer cells. We found that M. oleifera leaves methanolic extract exhibited significant anticancerous potential by inducing ROS-mediated apoptosis and activation of caspase-3 activity in prostate cancer. We also observed a dose-dependent G0/G1 cell cycle arrest as well as significant alteration in mRNA expression of apoptosis related and Hedgehog signaling pathway genes by M. oleifera extract treatment. Altogether, these experimental findings demonstrated that M. oleifera may exert antiproliferative apoptosis inducing effects by Hedgehog signaling pathway downregulation. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Moringa oleifera plant, a rich nutrional source, has extensive range of pharmacological applications including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity. To best of our knowledge, this could be the first intensive report which presented the inhibitory potential of M. oleifera leaves extract against PC-3 prostate cancer cells via targeting key molecules of Hedgehog signaling. Decreased mRNA expression of GLI1 transcription factor and SMO protein of Hedgehog signaling pathway may be involved in antiproliferative effects of M. oleifera leaves extract against prostate cancer cells. Our study suggested that M. oleifera supplementation might be beneficial for the development and improvement of targeted therapeutic strategies in prostate cancer cells.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Moringa oleifera leaves and their functional chemical cons

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Moringa oleifera leaves and their functional chemical constituents.

Moringa oleifera Lam .
( M. oleifera ) leaves have long been consumed as both nutritive vegetable and popular folk @ @ @ @ @ in Kenya communities .
In the current study , in vitro inhibition by M. oleifera @ @ @ @ @ 90 % ( v/v ) ethanol ) ofα-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase was demonstrated , followed @ @ @ @ @ of MOLE on both glucose consumption and lipid levels ( TC , TG , HDL-C @ @ @ @ @ cells .
Potential ligands in MOLE were fast screened using affinity ultrafiltration LC-MS , and @ @ @ @ @ binding affinity to α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase , respectively .
Docking studies revealed the binding @ @ @ @ @ potential ligands and enzymes .
This study suggests that M. oleifera leaves may be a @ @ @ @ @ prevention and treatment of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia as well as a functional food or other @ @ @ @ @ the near future .

Moringa oleifera Lam. (M. oleifera) leaves have long been consumed as both nutritive vegetable and popular folk medicine for hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in Kenya communities. In the current study, in vitro inhibition by M. oleifera leaf extract (MOLE, 90% (v/v) ethanol) ofα-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase was demonstrated, followed by determination of the effects of MOLE on both glucose consumption and lipid levels (TC, TG, HDL-C and LDL-C) in 3T3-L1 cells. Potential ligands in MOLE were fast screened using affinity ultrafiltration LC-MS, and 14 and 10 componentsdisplayed certain binding affinity to α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase, respectively. Docking studies revealed the binding energies and hydrogen bonds between potential ligands and enzymes. This study suggests that M. oleifera leaves may be a promising natural source for the prevention and treatment of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia as well as a functional food or other product for health care in the near future.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Potential of Moringa oleifera to improve glucose control for the prevention of diabetes and related

Potential of Moringa oleifera to improve glucose control for the prevention of diabetes and related metabolic alterations.

( MO ) is a multipurpose plant consumed as food and known for its medicinal uses , among others .
Leaves , seeds and pods are the main parts used as food or food supplements .
Nutritionally rich and with a high polyphenol content in the form of phenolic acids , flavonoids and glucosinolates , MO has been shown to exert numerous in vitro activities and in vivo effects , including hypoglycemic activity .
A systematic search was carried out in the PubMed database and reference lists on the effects of MO on glucose metabolism .
Thirty-three animal studies and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and organic solvent extracts of leaves and , secondly , seeds , have been extensively assayed in animal models , showing the hypoglycemic effect , both under acute conditions and in long-term administrations and also prevention of other metabolic changes and complications associated to the hyperglycemic status .
In humans , clinical trials are scarce , with variable designs and testing mainly dry leaf powder alone or mixed with other foods or MO aqueous preparations .
Although the reported results are encouraging , especially those from postprandial studies , more human studies are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a sufficient number of diabetic or prediabetic subjects .
Moreover , trying to quantify the bioactive substances administered with the experimental material tested would facilitate comparison between studies .

(MO) is a multipurpose plant consumed as food and known for its medicinal uses, among others. Leaves, seeds and pods are the main parts used as food or food supplements. Nutritionally rich and with a high polyphenol content in the form of phenolic acids, flavonoids and glucosinolates, MO has been shown to exert numerous in vitro activities and in vivo effects, including hypoglycemic activity. A systematic search was carried out in the PubMed database and reference lists on the effects of MO on glucose metabolism. Thirty-three animal studies and eight human studies were included. Water and organic solvent extracts of leaves and, secondly, seeds, have been extensively assayed in animal models, showing the hypoglycemic effect, both under acute conditions and in long-term administrations and also prevention of other metabolic changes and complications associated to the hyperglycemic status. In humans, clinical trials are scarce, with variable designs and testing mainly dry leaf powder alone or mixed with other foods or MO aqueous preparations. Although the reported results are encouraging, especially those from postprandial studies, more human studies are certainly needed with more stringent inclusion criteria and a sufficient number of diabetic or prediabetic subjects. Moreover, trying to quantify the bioactive substances administered with the experimental material tested would facilitate comparison between studies.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Role of selenium and myo-inositol supplementation on autoimmune thyroiditis progression

Previous reports indicate that selenium supplementation may be useful to reduce cell oxidative stress .
In particular , selenium may decrease the level of thyroid autoantibodies in patients with Hashimoto 's thyroiditis ( HT ) .
Recent studies also indicate that myo-inositol may have beneficial effects on thyroid function in patients with HT .
Hence , the aim of the present study is to evaluate whether myo-inositol may enhance the protective effect of selenium on HT progression to hypothyroidism .
The study was designed as observational and retrospective .
Thyroid hormones were evaluated in patients with HT who were either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were subdivided into three groups : untreated , treated with selenomethionine alone ( Se-meth : 83μg/day ) and treated with Se-meth plus myo-inositol ( Se-meth + Myo-I : 83 μg/day + 600 mg/day ) .
Outcome evaluation was performed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months of treatment .
High-resolution ultrasound of the thyroid gland was performed to evaluate changes in thyroid echoic pattern during thestudy .
Compared to baseline , levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone ( TSH ) increased significantly in untreated patients but decreased by 31 % and 38 % , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Se-meth + Myo-I .
Moreover , in the latter group the TSH reduction was observed earlier than in the Se-meth-treated group .
Densitometric analysis of thyroid ultrasonography showed an echoic pattern improvement in both treated groups compared to untreated patients , although this difference was not statistically significant .
Thus , Se-meth treatment is effective in patients with HT and its effect may be improved in combination with Myo-I through earlier achievement of TSH levels closer to physiological concentrations .

Previous reports indicate that selenium supplementation may be useful to reduce cell oxidative stress. In particular, selenium may decrease the level of thyroid autoantibodies in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). Recent studies also indicate that myo-inositol may have beneficial effects on thyroid function in patients with HT. Hence, the aim of the present study is to evaluate whether myo-inositol may enhance the protective effect of selenium on HT progression to hypothyroidism. The study was designed as observational and retrospective. Thyroid hormones were evaluated in patients with HT who were either euthyroid or subclinically hypothyroid. These patients were subdivided into three groups: untreated, treated with selenomethionine alone (Se-meth: 83μg/day) and treated with Se-meth plus myo-inositol (Se-meth + Myo-I: 83 μg/day + 600 mg/day). Outcome evaluation was performed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months of treatment. High-resolution ultrasound of the thyroid gland was performed to evaluate changes in thyroid echoic pattern during thestudy. Compared to baseline, levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) increased significantly in untreated patients but decreased by 31% and 38%, respectively, in those treated with Se-meth and Se-meth + Myo-I. Moreover, in the latter group the TSH reduction was observed earlier than in the Se-meth-treated group. Densitometric analysis of thyroid ultrasonography showed an echoic pattern improvement in both treated groups compared to untreated patients, although this difference was not statistically significant. Thus, Se-meth treatment is effective in patients with HT and its effect may be improved in combination with Myo-I through earlier achievement of TSH levels closer to physiological concentrations.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--There is a beneficial effect of green tea consumption with a diet rich in vegetables and fruits agai

There is a beneficial effect of green tea consumption with a diet rich in vegetables and fruits against coronary atherosclerosis.

Green tea and coffee contain various bioactive compounds ( e.g.
, polyphenols ) , and their consumption has been proposed to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases .
Here , we investigated the associations between the consumption of green tea and that of coffee and the prevalence of coronary artery disease ( CAD ) in Japanese patients .
The study group was 612 patients who underwent coronary angiography at Tokyo Medical Center between July 2008 and February 2017 .
CAD was confirmed in 388 of the patients : one-vessel disease ( 1-VD , n=166 ) ; two-vessel disease ( 2-VD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3-VD , n=110 ) .
Myocardial infarction ( MI ) was found in 138 patients .
After adjustment for well-known atherosclerotic risk factors and other dietary habits , greater green tea consumption was significantly inversely associated with CAD prevalence ( p for trend=0.044 ) , and the patients who drank > 3 cups/d had a lower prevalence of CAD compared to those who drank < 1 cup/d ( odds ratio [ OR ] : 0.54 , 95 % CI : 0.30-0.98 ) .
Greater green tea consumption ( > 3 cups/d ) was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3-VD ( OR : 0.49 , 95 % CI : 0.24-0.98 , p-trend=0.047 ) and MI ( OR : 0.51 , 95 % CI : 0.27-0.97 , p-trend=0.037 ) .
In contrast , coffee consumption was not associated with CAD or MI .
In subgroup analyses , the inverse association between green tea consumption and CAD or MI was found in the high intake groups of vegetables or fruits but not in the low intake groups of vegetables or fruits .
These results suggest a beneficial effect of green tea consumption , especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fruits , against coronary atherosclerosis in Japanese .

Green tea and coffee contain various bioactive compounds (e.g., polyphenols), and their consumption has been proposed to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Here, we investigated the associations between the consumption of green tea and that of coffee and the prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in Japanese patients. The study group was 612 patients who underwent coronary angiography at Tokyo Medical Center between July 2008 and February 2017. CAD was confirmed in 388 of the patients: one-vessel disease (1-VD, n=166); two-vessel disease (2-VD, n=112); three-vessel disease (3-VD, n=110). Myocardial infarction (MI) was found in 138 patients. After adjustment for well-known atherosclerotic risk factors and other dietary habits, greater green tea consumption was significantly inversely associated with CAD prevalence (p for trend=0.044), and the patients who drank>3 cups/d had a lower prevalence of CAD compared to those who drank<1 cup/d (odds ratio [OR]: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.30-0.98). Greater green tea consumption (>3 cups/d) was also associated with a decreased prevalence of 3-VD (OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.24-0.98, p-trend=0.047) and MI (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27-0.97, p-trend=0.037). In contrast, coffee consumption was not associated with CAD or MI. In subgroup analyses, the inverse association between green tea consumption and CAD or MI was found in the high intake groups of vegetables or fruits but not in the low intake groups of vegetables or fruits. These results suggest a beneficial effect of green tea consumption, especially with a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, against coronary atherosclerosis in Japanese.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--The increased amount of coffee consumption lowers the incidence of fatty liver disease in Korean men

The increased amount of coffee consumption lowers the incidence of fatty liver disease in Korean men.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS : Coffee is known to have a beneficial effect on various liver diseases .
The aim of this retrospective longitudinal study was to investigate an association between the amount of coffee consumption and the incidence of fatty liver disease in Korean adults .
METHODS AND RESULTS : Data from a total of 91,436 male and female subjects with the mean follow-up period of 2.8 years were analyzed .
The incidence of fatty liver was not associated with the amount of coffee consumption at baseline , but it was associated with the change in the amount of coffee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ linear regression analyses showed that hazard ratios for incidence of fatty liver disease were significantly low in '' increase '' group comparing with '' no change '' group in fully adjusted model .
When a subgroup analysis by gender was conducted , similar significant results were observed in male subjects , but not in females .
CONCLUSIONS : The increment in the amount of coffee consumption is associated with the lower incidence of fatty liver in Korean men and suggests that increasing the coffee consumption may have a protective effect on fatty liver @

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Coffee is known to have a beneficial effect on various liver diseases. The aim of this retrospective longitudinal study was to investigate an association between the amount of coffee consumption and the incidence of fatty liver disease in Korean adults.
METHODS AND RESULTS: Data from a total of 91,436 male and female subjects with the mean follow-up period of 2.8 years were analyzed. The incidence of fatty liver was not associated with the amount of coffee consumption at baseline, but it was associated with the change in the amount of coffee consumption at the follow-up period. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that hazard ratios for incidence of fatty liver disease were significantly low in"increase"group comparing with"no change"group in fully adjusted model. When a subgroup analysis by gender was conducted, similar significant results were observed in male subjects, but not in females.
CONCLUSIONS: The increment in the amount of coffee consumption is associated with the lower incidence of fatty liver in Korean men and suggests that increasing the coffee consumption may have a protective effect on fatty liver.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Video: Your Body, Their Choice

Video: Your Body, Their Choice

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Before beginning any type of @ @ @ @ @ treatment regimen , it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional @

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
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greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--The chemistry of chlorogenic acid from green coffee and its role in attenuation of obesity and diabe

The chemistry of chlorogenic acid from green coffee and its role in attenuation of obesity and diabetes

An overview of green coffee , the unroasted bean enriched with antioxidants , is presented in the following article .
Green coffee beans are known to have a higher content of chlorogenic acid ( CGA ) with potential health benefits like activity against hypertension , diabetes , obesity , etc .
There are three major classes of chlorogenic acids present in green coffee beans , namely : caffeoylquinic acid ( CQA ) , di-caffeoylquinic acid ( diCQA ) and feruloylquinic acid ( FQA ) .
Another pivotal component of the green beans is caffeic acid .
A compilation of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the diverse biomolecules present in the green coffee , their structure and the different sources of CGA is presented .
The traditional and modern methods of the extraction of CGA are also studied .
Green coffee upon roasting develops its aromatic characteristics but the flavor development comes with a reciprocation of reduced chlorogenic acid content .
Thus , the effect of processing is also addressed .
There are numerous studies conducted to show the health benefits associated with the consumption of green coffee out of which , anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects are particularly @ @ @ @ @

An overview of green coffee, the unroasted bean enriched with antioxidants, is presented in the following article. Green coffee beans are known to have a higher content of chlorogenic acid (CGA) with potential health benefits like activity against hypertension, diabetes, obesity, etc. There are three major classes of chlorogenic acids present in green coffee beans, namely: caffeoylquinic acid (CQA), di-caffeoylquinic acid (diCQA) and feruloylquinic acid (FQA). Another pivotal component of the green beans is caffeic acid. A compilation of the different research studies and reviews pertaining to the diverse biomolecules present in the green coffee, their structure and the different sources of CGA is presented. The traditional and modern methods of the extraction of CGA are also studied. Green coffee upon roasting develops its aromatic characteristics but the flavor development comes with a reciprocation of reduced chlorogenic acid content. Thus, the effect of processing is also addressed. There are numerous studies conducted to show the health benefits associated with the consumption of green coffee out of which, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects are particularly concentrated in this article.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Green coffee extract supplementation improved fasting blood glucose and serum levels of insulin and

Green coffee extract supplementation improved fasting blood glucose and serum levels of insulin and total cholesterol.

BACKGROUND : The role of coffee consumption in the risk of cardiovascular diseases has been debated for many years .
The current study aimed to summarize earlier evidence on the effects of green coffee extract ( GCE ) supplementation on glycemic indices and lipid profile .
METHODS : We searched available online databases for relevant clinical trials published up to October 2019 .
All clinical trials investigating the effect of GCE supplementation , compared with a control group , on fasting blood glucose ( FBG ) , serum insulin , total cholesterol ( TC ) , triglyceride ( TG ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) were included .
Overall , 14 clinical trials with a total sample size of 766 participants were included in the current meta-analysis .
RESULTS : We found a significant reducing effect of GCE supplementation on FBG ( weighted mean difference ( WMD ) : -2.35 , 95 % CI : - 3.78 , - 0.92 mg/dL , P = 0.001 ) and serum insulin ( WMD : -0.63 , 95 % CI : - 1.11 , - 0.15 μU/L , P = 0.01 ) .
With regard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant reduction only in serum levels of TC following GCE supplementation in the overall meta-analysis ( WMD : -4.51 , 95 % CI : - 8.39 , - 0.64 , P = 0.02 ) .
However , subgroup analysis showed a significant reduction in serum TG in studies enrolled both genders .
Also , such a significant reduction was seen in serum levels of LDL and HDL when the analyses confined to studies with intervention duration of ≥8 weeks and thoseincluded female subjects .
In the non-linear dose-response analyses , we found that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) dosage , the main polyphenol in GCE , on FBG , TG and HDL were in the non-linear fashions .
CONCLUSION : In conclusion , we found that GCE supplementation improved FBG and serum levels of insulin and TC .
Also , there was a significant improvement in other markers of lipid profile in some subgroups of clinical trials .

BACKGROUND: The role of coffee consumption in the risk of cardiovascular diseases has been debated for many years. The current study aimed to summarize earlier evidence on the effects of green coffee extract (GCE) supplementation on glycemic indices and lipid profile.
METHODS: We searched available online databases for relevant clinical trials published up to October 2019. All clinical trials investigating the effect of GCE supplementation, compared with a control group, on fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum insulin, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were included. Overall, 14 clinical trials with a total sample size of 766 participants were included in the current meta-analysis.
RESULTS: We found a significant reducing effect of GCE supplementation on FBG (weighted mean difference (WMD): -2.35, 95% CI: - 3.78, - 0.92 mg/dL, P = 0.001) and serum insulin (WMD: -0.63, 95% CI: - 1.11, - 0.15 μU/L, P = 0.01). With regard to lipid profile, we observed a significant reduction only in serum levels of TC following GCE supplementation in the overall meta-analysis (WMD: -4.51, 95% CI: - 8.39, - 0.64, P = 0.02). However, subgroup analysis showed a significant reduction in serum TG in studies enrolled both genders. Also, such a significant reduction was seen in serum levels of LDL and HDL when the analyses confined to studies with intervention duration of ≥8 weeks and thoseincluded female subjects. In the non-linear dose-response analyses, we found that the effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA) dosage, the main polyphenol in GCE, on FBG, TG and HDL were in the non-linear fashions.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, we found that GCE supplementation improved FBG and serum levels of insulin and TC. Also, there was a significant improvement in other markers of lipid profile in some subgroups of clinical trials.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Low quality evidence suggests that N95 respirators protect health care workers from clinical respira

Low quality evidence suggests that N95 respirators protect health care workers from clinical respiratory infections.

Protecting Health Care Workers ( HCWs ) during routine care of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients is of paramount importance to halt the SARS-CoV-2 ( Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 ) pandemic .
The WHO , ECDC and CDC have issued conflicting guidelines on the use of respiratory filters ( N95 ) by HCWs .
We searched PubMed , Embase and The Cochrane Library from the inception to March 21 , 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials ( RCTs ) comparing N95 respirators versus surgical masks for prevention of COVID-19 or any other respiratory infection among HCWs .
The grading of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evaluation ( GRADE ) was used to evaluate the quality of evidence .
Four RCTs involving 8736 HCWs were included .
We did not find any trial specifically on prevention of COVID-19 .
However , wearing N95 respirators can prevent 73 more ( 95 % CI 46-91 ) clinical respiratory infections per 1000 HCWs compared to surgical masks ( 2 RCTs ; 2594 patients ; low quality of evidence ) .
A protective effect of N95 respirators in laboratory-confirmed bacterial colonization ( RR = 0.41 ; 95 % CI 0.28-0.61 ) was also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ N95 respirators was observed in preventing laboratory-confirmed respiratory viral infections , laboratory-confirmed respiratory infection , and influenza like illness .
We found no direct high quality evidence on whether N95 respirators are better than surgical masks for HCWs protection from SARS-CoV-2 .
However , low quality evidence suggests that N95 respirators protect HCWs from clinical respiratory infections .
This finding should be contemplated to decide the best strategy to support the resilience of healthcare systems facing the potentially catastrophic SARS-CoV-2 pandemic .

Protecting Health Care Workers (HCWs) during routine care of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients is of paramount importance to halt the SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2) pandemic. The WHO, ECDC and CDC have issued conflicting guidelines on the use of respiratory filters (N95) by HCWs. We searched PubMed, Embase and The Cochrane Library from the inception to March 21, 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing N95 respirators versus surgical masks for prevention of COVID-19 or any other respiratory infection among HCWs. The grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) was used to evaluate the quality of evidence. Four RCTs involving 8736 HCWs were included. We did not find any trial specifically on prevention of COVID-19. However, wearing N95 respirators can prevent 73 more (95% CI 46-91) clinical respiratory infections per 1000 HCWs compared to surgical masks (2 RCTs; 2594 patients; low quality of evidence). A protective effect of N95 respirators in laboratory-confirmed bacterial colonization (RR = 0.41; 95%CI 0.28-0.61) was also found. A trend in favour of N95 respirators was observed in preventing laboratory-confirmed respiratory viral infections, laboratory-confirmed respiratory infection, and influenza like illness. We found no direct high quality evidence on whether N95 respirators are better than surgical masks for HCWs protection from SARS-CoV-2. However, low quality evidence suggests that N95 respirators protect HCWs from clinical respiratory infections. This finding should be contemplated to decide the best strategy to support the resilience of healthcare systems facing the potentially catastrophic SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--This systematic review found limited evidence that the use of masks might reduce the risk of viral r

OBJECTIVE : To determine the effect of mask use on viral respiratory infection risk .
STUDY SELECTION : Randomized controlled trials ( RCTs ) included in at least 1 published systematic review comparing the use of masks with a control group , either in community or health care settings , on the risk of viral respiratory infections .
SYNTHESIS : In total , 11 systematic reviews were included and 18 RCTs of 26 444 participants were found , 12 in the community and 6 in health care workers .
Included studies had limitations and were deemed at high risk of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks in the community did not reduce the risk of influenza , confirmed viral respiratory infection , influenzalike illness , or any clinical respiratory infection .
However , in the 2 trials that most closely aligned with mask use in real-life community settings , there was a significant risk reduction in influenzalike illness ( risk ratio [ RR ] = 0.83 ; 95 % CI 0.69 to 0.99 ) .
The use of masks in households with a sick contact was not associated with a significant infection risk reduction in any analysis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sick individual , the healthy family members , or both .
In health care workers , surgical masks were superior to cloth masks for preventing influenzalike illness ( RR = 0.12 ; 95 % CI 0.02 to 0.98 ) , and N95 masks were likely superior to surgical masks for preventing influenzalike illness ( RR = 0.78 ; 95 % CI 0.61 to 1.00 ) and any clinical respiratory infections ( RR = 0.95 ; 95 % CI 0.90 to 1.00 ) .
CONCLUSION : This systematic review found limited evidence that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of viral respiratory infections .
In the community setting , a possible reduced risk of influenzalike illness was found among mask users .
In health care workers , the results show no difference between N95 masks and surgical masks on the risk of confirmed influenza or other confirmed viral respiratory infections , although possible benefits from N95 masks were found for preventing influenzalike illness or other clinical respiratory infections .
Surgical masks might be superior to cloth masks but data are limited to 1 trial .

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of mask use on viral respiratory infection risk.
DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library.
STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in at least 1 published systematic review comparing the use of masks with a control group, either in community or health care settings, on the risk of viral respiratory infections.
SYNTHESIS: In total, 11 systematic reviews were included and 18 RCTs of 26 444 participants were found, 12 in the community and 6 in health care workers. Included studies had limitations and were deemed at high risk of bias. Overall, the use of masks in the community did not reduce the risk of influenza, confirmed viral respiratory infection, influenzalike illness, or any clinical respiratory infection. However, in the 2 trials that most closely aligned with mask use in real-life community settings, there was a significant risk reduction in influenzalike illness (risk ratio [RR] = 0.83; 95% CI 0.69 to 0.99). The use of masks in households with a sick contact was not associated with a significant infection risk reduction in any analysis, no matter if masks were used by the sick individual, the healthy family members, or both. In health care workers, surgical masks were superior to cloth masks for preventing influenzalike illness (RR = 0.12; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.98), and N95 masks were likely superior to surgical masks for preventing influenzalike illness (RR = 0.78; 95% CI 0.61 to 1.00) and any clinical respiratory infections (RR = 0.95; 95% CI 0.90 to 1.00).
CONCLUSION: This systematic review found limited evidence that the use of masks might reduce the risk of viral respiratory infections. In the community setting, a possible reduced risk of influenzalike illness was found among mask users. In health care workers, the results show no difference between N95 masks and surgical masks on the risk of confirmed influenza or other confirmed viral respiratory infections, although possible benefits from N95 masks were found for preventing influenzalike illness or other clinical respiratory infections. Surgical masks might be superior to cloth masks but data are limited to 1 trial.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Loosely folded face masks and bandana-style coverings provide minimal stopping-capability for the sm

The use of face masks in public settings has been widely recommended by public health officials during the current COVID-19 pandemic .
The masks help mitigate the risk of cross-infection via respiratory droplets ; however , there are no specific guidelines on mask materials and designs that are most effective in minimizing droplet dispersal .
While there have been prior studies on the performance of medical-grade masks , there are insufficient data on cloth-based coverings , which are being used by a vast majority of the general public .
We use qualitative visualizations of emulated coughs and sneezes to examine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to which droplet-laden respiratory jets are blocked .
Loosely folded face masks and bandana-style coverings provide minimal stopping-capability for the smallest aerosolized respiratory droplets .
Well-fitted homemade masks with multiple layers of quilting fabric , and off-the-shelf cone style masks , proved to be the most effective in reducing droplet dispersal .
These masks were able to curtail the speed and range of the respiratory jets significantly , albeit with some leakage through the mask material and from small gaps along the edges .
Importantly , uncovered emulated coughs were able to travel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing guideline .
We outline the procedure for setting up simple visualization experiments using easily available materials , which may help healthcare professionals , medical researchers , and manufacturers in assessing the effectiveness of face masks and other personal protective equipment qualitatively .

The use of face masks in public settings has been widely recommended by public health officials during the current COVID-19 pandemic. The masks help mitigate the risk of cross-infection via respiratory droplets; however, there are no specific guidelines on mask materials and designs that are most effective in minimizing droplet dispersal. While there have been prior studies on the performance of medical-grade masks, there are insufficient data on cloth-based coverings, which are being used by a vast majority of the general public. We use qualitative visualizations of emulated coughs and sneezes to examine how material- and design-choices impact the extent to which droplet-laden respiratory jets are blocked. Loosely folded face masks and bandana-style coverings provide minimal stopping-capability for the smallest aerosolized respiratory droplets. Well-fitted homemade masks with multiple layers of quilting fabric, and off-the-shelf cone style masks, proved to be the most effective in reducing droplet dispersal. These masks were able to curtail the speed and range of the respiratory jets significantly, albeit with some leakage through the mask material and from small gaps along the edges. Importantly, uncovered emulated coughs were able to travel notably farther than the currently recommended 6-ft distancing guideline. We outline the procedure for setting up simple visualization experiments using easily available materials, which may help healthcare professionals, medical researchers, and manufacturers in assessing the effectiveness of face masks and other personal protective equipment qualitatively.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Cloth masks and other fabric materials tested in the study had 40-90% instantaneous penetration leve

Cloth masks and other fabric materials tested in the study had 40-90% instantaneous penetration levels against polydisperse NaCl aerosols.

A shortage of disposable filtering facepiece respirators can be expected during a pandemic respiratory infection such as influenza A .
Some individuals may want to use common fabric materials for respiratory protection because of shortage or affordability reasons .
To address the filtration performance of common fabric materials against nano-size particles including viruses , five major categories of fabric materials including sweatshirts , T-shirts , towels , scarves , and cloth masks were tested for polydisperse and monodisperse aerosols ( 20-1000 nm ) at two different face velocities ( 5.5 and 16.5 cm s⁻¹ ) and compared with the penetration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The results showed that cloth masks and other fabric materials tested in the study had 40-90 % instantaneous penetration levels against polydisperse NaCl aerosols employed in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health particulate respirator test protocol at 5.5 cm s⁻¹ .
Similarly , varying levels of penetrations ( 9-98 % ) were obtained for different size monodisperse NaCl aerosol particles in the 20-1000 nm range .
The penetration levels of these fabric materials against both polydisperse and monodisperse aerosols were much higher than the penetrations for the control N95 respirator filter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ velocity , monodisperse aerosol penetrations slightly increased , while polydisperse aerosol penetrations showed no significant effect except one fabric mask with an increase .
Results obtained in the study show that common fabric materials may provide marginal protection against nanoparticles including those in the size ranges of virus-containing particles in exhaled breath .

A shortage of disposable filtering facepiece respirators can be expected during a pandemic respiratory infection such as influenza A. Some individuals may want to use common fabric materials for respiratory protection because of shortage or affordability reasons. To address the filtration performance of common fabric materials against nano-size particles including viruses, five major categories of fabric materials including sweatshirts, T-shirts, towels, scarves, and cloth masks were tested for polydisperse and monodisperse aerosols (20-1000 nm) at two different face velocities (5.5 and 16.5 cm s⁻¹) and compared with the penetration levels for N95 respirator filter media. The results showed that cloth masks and other fabric materials tested in the study had 40-90% instantaneous penetration levels against polydisperse NaCl aerosols employed in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health particulate respirator test protocol at 5.5 cm s⁻¹. Similarly, varying levels of penetrations (9-98%) were obtained for different size monodisperse NaCl aerosol particles in the 20-1000 nm range. The penetration levels of these fabric materials against both polydisperse and monodisperse aerosols were much higher than the penetrations for the control N95 respirator filter media. At 16.5 cm s⁻¹ face velocity, monodisperse aerosol penetrations slightly increased, while polydisperse aerosol penetrations showed no significant effect except one fabric mask with an increase. Results obtained in the study show that common fabric materials may provide marginal protection against nanoparticles including those in the size ranges of virus-containing particles in exhaled breath.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Cloth masks are only marginally beneficial in protecting individuals from particles<2.5 μm.

Inexpensive cloth masks are widely used in developing countries to protect from particulate pollution albeit limited data on their efficacy exists .
This study examined the efficiency of four types of masks ( three types of cloth masks and one type of surgical mask ) commonly worn in the developing world .
Five monodispersed aerosol sphere size ( 30 , 100 , and 500 nm , and 1 and 2.5 μm ) and diluted whole diesel exhaust was used to assess facemask performance .
Among the three cloth mask types , a cloth mask with an exhaust valve performed best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the measured polystyrene latex ( PSL ) particle sizes .
Two styles of commercially available fabric masks were the least effective with a filtration efficiency of 39-65 % for PSL particles , and they performed better as the particle size increased .
When the cloth masks were tested against lab-generated whole diesel particles , the filtration efficiency for three particle sizes ( 30 , 100 , and 500 nm ) ranged from 15 % to 57 % .
Standard N95 mask performance was used as a control to compare the results with cloth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cloth masks are only marginally beneficial in protecting individuals from particles < 2.5 μm .
Compared with cloth masks , disposable surgical masks are more effective in reducing particulate exposure .

Inexpensive cloth masks are widely used in developing countries to protect from particulate pollution albeit limited data on their efficacy exists. This study examined the efficiency of four types of masks (three types of cloth masks and one type of surgical mask) commonly worn in the developing world. Five monodispersed aerosol sphere size (30, 100, and 500 nm, and 1 and 2.5 μm) and diluted whole diesel exhaust was used to assess facemask performance. Among the three cloth mask types, a cloth mask with an exhaust valve performed best with filtration efficiency of 80-90% for the measured polystyrene latex (PSL) particle sizes. Two styles of commercially available fabric masks were the least effective with a filtration efficiency of 39-65% for PSL particles, and they performed better as the particle size increased. When the cloth masks were tested against lab-generated whole diesel particles, the filtration efficiency for three particle sizes(30, 100, and 500 nm) ranged from 15% to 57%. Standard N95 mask performance was used as a control to compare the results with cloth masks, and our results suggest that cloth masks are only marginally beneficial in protecting individuals from particles<2.5 μm. Compared with cloth masks, disposable surgical masks are more effective in reducing particulate exposure.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--The N95 filtering face piece respirators may not provide the expected protection level against small

BACKGROUND : Respiratory protection devices are used to protect the wearers from inhaling particles suspended in the air .
Filtering face piece respirators are usually tested utilizing nonbiologic particles , whereas their use often aims at reducing exposure to biologic aerosols , including infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria .
METHODS : The performance of 2 types of N95 half-mask , filtering face piece respirators and 2 types of surgical masks were determined .
The collection efficiency of these respiratory protection devices was investigated using MS2 virus ( a nonharmful simulant of several pathogens ) .
The virions were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 to 80 nm .
RESULTS : The results indicate that the penetration of virions through the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health ( NIOSH ) -certified N95 respirators can exceed an expected level of 5 % .
As anticipated , the tested surgical masks showed a much higher particle penetration because they are known to be less efficient than the N95 respirators .
The 2 surgical masks , which originated from the same manufacturer , showed tremendously different penetration levels of the MS2 virions : 20.5 % and 84.5 % , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 85 L/min .
CONCLUSION : The N95 filtering face piece respirators may not provide the expected protection level against small virions .
Some surgical masks may let a significant fraction of airborne viruses penetrate through their filters , providing very low protection against aerosolized infectious agents in the size range of 10 to 80 nm .
It should be noted that the surgical masks are primarily designed to protect the environment from the wearer , whereas the respirators are supposed to protect the wearer from the environment .

BACKGROUND: Respiratory protection devices are used to protect the wearers from inhaling particles suspended in the air. Filtering face piece respirators are usually tested utilizing nonbiologic particles, whereas their use often aims at reducing exposure to biologic aerosols, including infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria.
METHODS: The performance of 2 types of N95 half-mask, filtering face piece respirators and 2 types of surgical masks were determined. The collection efficiency of these respiratory protection devices was investigated using MS2 virus (a nonharmful simulant of several pathogens). The virions were detected in the particle size range of 10 to 80 nm.
RESULTS: The results indicate that the penetration of virions through the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-certified N95 respirators can exceed an expected level of 5%. As anticipated, the tested surgical masks showed a much higher particle penetration because they are known to be less efficient than the N95 respirators. The 2 surgical masks, which originated from the same manufacturer, showed tremendously different penetration levels of the MS2 virions: 20.5% and 84.5%, respectively, at an inhalation flow rate of 85 L/min.
CONCLUSION: The N95 filtering face piece respirators may not provide the expected protection level against small virions. Some surgical masks may let a significant fraction of airborne viruses penetrate through their filters, providing very low protection against aerosolized infectious agents in the size range of 10 to 80 nm. It should be noted that the surgical masks are primarily designed to protect the environment from the wearer, whereas the respirators are supposed to protect the wearer from the environment.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-18--Airborne coronavirus particle (<0.125 micron) will pass directly through a N95 face mask.

In December 2019 , a cluster of patients with pneumonia of unknown cause was linked to a seafood wholesale market @ @ @ @ @ A previously unknown betacoronavirus was discovered through the use of unbiased sequencing in samples from @ @ @ @ @ airway epithelial cells were used to isolate a novel coronavirus , named 2019-nCoV , which @ @ @ @ @ subgenus sarbecovirus , Orthocoronavirinae subfamily .
Different from both MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV , 2019-nCoV is @ @ @ @ @ family of coronaviruses that infect humans .
Enhanced surveillance and further investigation are ongoing .
@ @ @ @ @ Key Research and Development Program of China and the National Major Project for Control and @ @ @ @ @ China . )
.

In December 2019, a cluster of patients with pneumonia of unknown cause was linked to a seafood wholesale market in Wuhan, China. A previously unknown betacoronavirus was discovered through the use of unbiased sequencing in samples from patients with pneumonia. Human airway epithelial cells were used to isolate a novel coronavirus, named 2019-nCoV, which formed a clade within the subgenus sarbecovirus, Orthocoronavirinae subfamily. Different from both MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, 2019-nCoV is the seventh member of the family of coronaviruses that infect humans. Enhanced surveillance and further investigation are ongoing. (Funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China and the National Major Project for Control and Prevention of Infectious Disease in China.).


greenmedinfo--2020-07-19--Neydharting mud pack has a favourable effect on the clinical parameters, quality of life, and need f

Neydharting mud pack has a favourable effect on the clinical parameters, quality of life, and need for medications in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Neydharting mud-pack therapy on the clinical parameters and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis .
In this double-blind , randomized , follow-up study on 53 patients with knee osteoarthritis , one group received hot mud-pack therapy , whereas the other ( control ) group was treated with hot packs of a substance manufactured on 10 occasions for 2 weeks .
Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index ( WOMAC ) , EuroQoL-5D quality-of-life measure and need for analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were recorded before treatment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Week 2 ) , and at Weeks 6 and 12 .
The WOMAC and the EQ5D quality-of-life scores improved from the baseline to the end of treatment in both groups , and further improvement was observed during the follow-up period ( p < 0.001 , respectively , in both groups ) .
The need for medications for knee joint pain improved in both groups , and these changes were significant only in the mud-treated group ( p < 0.001 ) , but not in the control group ( p = 0.106 ) compared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requiring medications for knee joint pain showed a continuous downward trend at the subsequent post-treatment visits by the mud-treated group , and these changes became significant by Visit 4 compared to baseline ( p = 0.016 ) .
The control group showed only temporary and not significant decrease .
The difference was not significant between the groups in any of the outcome parameters at any visits .
The Neydharting mud pack has a favorable effect on the clinical parameters , quality of life , and need for medications in patients with knee osteoarthritis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of patients should be increased .

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Neydharting mud-pack therapy on the clinical parameters and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis. In this double-blind, randomized, follow-up study on 53 patients with knee osteoarthritis, one group received hot mud-pack therapy, whereas the other (control) group was treated with hot packs of a substance manufactured on 10 occasions for 2 weeks. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), EuroQoL-5D quality-of-life measure and need for analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were recorded before treatment, at the end of treatment (at Week 2), and at Weeks 6 and 12. The WOMAC and the EQ5D quality-of-life scores improved from the baseline to the end of treatment in both groups, and further improvement was observed during the follow-up period (p<0.001, respectively, in both groups). The need for medications for knee joint pain improved in both groups, and these changes were significant only in the mud-treated group (p<0.001), but not in the control group (p = 0.106) compared to baseline. The number of patients requiring medications for knee joint pain showed a continuous downward trend at the subsequent post-treatment visits by the mud-treated group, and these changes became significant by Visit 4 compared to baseline (p = 0.016). The control group showed only temporary and not significant decrease. The difference was not significant between the groups in any of the outcome parameters at any visits. The Neydharting mud pack has a favorable effect on the clinical parameters, quality of life, and need for medications in patients with knee osteoarthritis. To evaluate the chemical effect, the number of patients should be increased.


greenmedinfo--2020-07-19--Mud therapy can effectively alleviate the pain and improve joint function for knee osteoarthritis.

The objective of this review is to systematically evaluate the short-term efficacy of mud therapy in the treatment of knee @ @ @ @ @ controlled trials , in which treatment of KOA is mud therapy , were included by @ @ @ @ @ Embase , and the Cochrane Library databases.According to inclusion criteria and searching method , 11 @ @ @ @ @ of 1106 patients , were included in the study .
Our results showed significant differences @ @ @ @ @ score and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index ( pain , stiffness , function @ @ @ @ @ the heterogeneity of study included is lower ( I

The objective of this review is to systematically evaluate the short-term efficacy of mud therapy in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA).Randomized controlled trials, in which treatment of KOA is mud therapy, were included by systematically searching the PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases.According to inclusion criteria and searching method, 11 articles, containing a total of 1106 patients, were included in the study. Our results showed significant differences in visual analog scale pain score and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (pain, stiffness, function). In addition, the heterogeneity of study included is lower (I < 25%).According to the results of this meta-analysis, mud therapy can effectively alleviate the pain and improve joint function for KOA.