greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Short-term aerobic exercise interventions can act as buffer against depression and perceived stress

Short-term aerobic exercise interventions can act as buffer against depression and perceived stress in university students.

The health benefits of regular physical activity and aerobic exercise are undisputed in the literature .
The present series of pilot studies had two major objectives : ( a ) examine mental health , well-being , and regular physical activity of university students and ( b ) explore the potential health benefits of short-term aerobic exercise on university students in an online and a laboratory study .
Mental health and well-being were measured before ( Time 1 , T1 ) and after ( Time 2 , T2 ) a 6 week ( online study ) and 2 week ( laboratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intervention .
Mental health and well-being were assessed using standardized self-report measures of depression , anxiety , positive and negative affect , perceived stress and coping strategies , body dissatisfaction , and quality of life .
The effects of the aerobic exercise were compared to a cognitive non-exercise control condition ( online study ) , motor coordination exercise ( laboratory study ) , and a waiting list ( online and laboratory ) .
A total of 185 university students were recruited from German universities at T1 .
Further , 74 ( women : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intervention .
Similarly , 32 ( women : = 30 ) participants completed the 2 week intervention ( laboratory study ) .
At T1 , 36.6 % of the students ( women and men ) reported experiencing depressive symptoms .
41.83 % of them ( women and men ) had high levels of state anxiety .
All the students reported experiencing stress ( e.g.
, due to uncertainty related to factors such as their finances , job , and social relationships ) .
At T1 , regular physical activity was negatively correlated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ psychosomatic stress and positively correlated with quality of life and positive affect .
Among women , cardiovascular fitness ( operationalized as resting heart rate variability ) was negatively correlated with self-reported anxiety ( state ) and depression at T1 ( laboratory study ) .
The 6 week aerobic exercise intervention resulted in significant improvements in self-reported depression , overall perceived stress , and perceived stress due to uncertainty .
The present results confirm that there is a relationship between regular physical activity , cardiovascular fitness , mental health , and well-being among university @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short-term aerobic exercise interventions can act as buffer against depression and perceived stress in university students after 6 weeks of aerobic exercise of low to moderate intensity .

The health benefits of regular physical activity and aerobic exercise are undisputed in the literature. The present series of pilot studies had two major objectives: (a) examine mental health, well-being, and regular physical activity of university students and (b) explore the potential health benefits of short-term aerobic exercise on university students in an online and a laboratory study. Mental health and well-being were measured before (Time 1, T1) and after (Time 2, T2) a 6 week (online study) and 2 week (laboratory study) low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise intervention. Mental health and well-being were assessed using standardized self-report measures of depression, anxiety, positive and negative affect, perceived stress and coping strategies, body dissatisfaction, and quality of life. The effects of the aerobic exercise were compared to a cognitive non-exercise control condition (online study), motor coordination exercise (laboratory study), and a waiting list (online and laboratory). A total of 185 university students were recruited from German universities at T1. Further, 74 (women:= 67) students completed the 6-week intervention. Similarly, 32 (women:= 30) participants completed the 2 week intervention (laboratory study). At T1, 36.6% of the students (women and men) reported experiencing depressive symptoms. 41.83% of them (women and men) had high levels of state anxiety. All the students reported experiencing stress (e.g., due to uncertainty related to factors such as their finances, job, and social relationships). At T1, regular physical activity was negatively correlated with self-reported depression, anxiety, and perceived psychosomatic stress and positively correlated with quality of life and positive affect. Among women, cardiovascular fitness (operationalized as resting heart rate variability) was negatively correlated with self-reported anxiety (state) and depression at T1 (laboratory study). The 6 week aerobic exercise intervention resulted in significant improvements in self-reported depression, overall perceived stress, and perceived stress due to uncertainty. The present results confirm that there is a relationship between regular physical activity, cardiovascular fitness, mental health, and well-being among university students. They support the hypothesis that short-term aerobic exercise interventions can act as buffer against depression and perceived stress in university students after 6 weeks of aerobic exercise of low to moderate intensity.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Exercise is a reasonable evidence-based recommendation for migraine prevention.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW : This review intends to characterize the recent literature pertaining to the role of aerobic exercise in the prevention of migraine .
Areas of consensus within that literature may be used to guide clinical practice , allowing for the promulgation of evidence-based practice recommendations .
RECENT FINDINGS : The past decade has seen the publication of numerous high-quality studies that explore aspects of exercise 's effects on migraine prevention , including its success as a stand-alone prevention strategy , as well as its non-inferiority to some pharmacologic preventive measures .
Exercise often tops providers ' lists of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burden .
Biologically , exercise suppresses inflammatory modulators , including numerous cytokines , and stress hormones , like growth hormone and cortisol .
Exercise has also been shown to affect microvascular health , which may be implicated in cortical spreading depression .
Psychologically , there is evidence that exercise improves migraine self-efficacy and internalizes the locus of control , leading to reduced migraine burden .
Randomized control trials have demonstrated that a sufficiently rigorous aerobic exercise regimen alone is sufficient to yield a statistically significant reduction in migraine frequency , intensity , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more benefit .
Studies have also demonstrated non-inferiority of exercise compared with certain pharmacologic prophylactic interventions , like topiramate .
However , the addition of exercise to a traditional preventive regimen may provide added benefit .
Special populations , like those with comorbid neck pain or tension headache , may benefit from exercise ; and patients who can not tolerate high-impact exercise may even benefit from low-impact exercise like yoga .
Therefore , exercise is a reasonable evidence-based recommendation for migraine prevention .

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review intends to characterize the recent literature pertaining to the role of aerobic exercise in the prevention of migraine. Areas of consensus within that literature may be used to guide clinical practice, allowing for the promulgation of evidence-based practice recommendations.
RECENT FINDINGS: The past decade has seen the publication of numerous high-quality studies that explore aspects of exercise's effects on migraine prevention, including its success as a stand-alone prevention strategy, as well as its non-inferiority to some pharmacologic preventive measures. Exercise often tops providers' lists of recommended lifestyle modifications that help reduce migraine burden. Biologically, exercise suppresses inflammatory modulators, including numerous cytokines, and stress hormones, like growth hormone and cortisol. Exercise has also been shown to affect microvascular health, which may be implicated in cortical spreading depression. Psychologically, there is evidence that exercise improves migraine self-efficacy and internalizes the locus of control, leading to reduced migraine burden. Randomized control trials have demonstrated that a sufficiently rigorous aerobic exercise regimen alone is sufficient to yield a statistically significant reduction in migraine frequency, intensity, and duration. Higher-intensity training appears to confer more benefit. Studies have also demonstrated non-inferiority of exercise compared with certain pharmacologic prophylactic interventions, like topiramate. However, the addition of exercise to a traditional preventive regimen may provide added benefit. Special populations, like those with comorbid neck pain or tension headache, may benefit from exercise; and patients who cannot tolerate high-impact exercise may even benefit from low-impact exercise like yoga. Therefore, exercise is a reasonable evidence-based recommendation for migraine prevention.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Yoga-based physical therapy is feasible and safe in the inpatient rehabilitation setting following t

Yoga-based physical therapy is feasible and safe in the inpatient rehabilitation setting following traumatic brain injury.

OBJECTIVE : To compare the impacts of yoga-based physical therapy versus a seated rest within the context of standard rehabilitation practice on sleep , heart rate variability ( HRV ) , anxiety , and fatigue during acute traumatic brain injury ( TBI ) rehabilitation .
METHODS : Eleven individuals participated in this crossover study involving the following interventions in a randomized order : group yoga-based physical therapy ( YPT ) , conventional physical therapy ( CPT ) , and group seated rest in a relaxing environment ( SR ) .
HRV and self-reported anxiety and fatigue were measured immediately before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after each condition and at baseline .
Data was analyzed using generalized linear mixed models with repeated measures .
RESULTS : The interaction between time and treatment was statistically significant ( = .0203 ) .
For the SR treatment , wake after sleep onset ( WASO ) rate was reduced from 14.99 to 10.60 ( IRR = 0.71 ; = .006 ) .
Time and treatment were not found to be statistically significantly associated with any of the secondary outcomes .
CONCLUSION : Yoga-based physical therapy is feasible and safe in the inpatient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improved following the addition of a one-hour seated rest in a relaxing environment to a standard rehabilitation daily schedule , suggesting that structured rest time may be beneficial to sleep hygiene during inpatient rehabilitation following TBI .
ClinicalTrials.Gov Registration Number : NCT03701594 .

OBJECTIVE: To compare the impacts of yoga-based physical therapy versus a seated rest within the context of standard rehabilitation practice on sleep, heart rate variability (HRV), anxiety, and fatigue during acute traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation.
METHODS: Eleven individuals participated in this crossover study involving the following interventions in a randomized order: group yoga-based physical therapy (YPT), conventional physical therapy (CPT), and group seated rest in a relaxing environment (SR). HRV and self-reported anxiety and fatigue were measured immediately before and after each group, and sleep after each condition and at baseline. Data was analyzed using generalized linear mixed models with repeated measures.
RESULTS: The interaction between time and treatment was statistically significant (= .0203). For the SR treatment, wake after sleep onset (WASO) rate was reduced from 14.99 to 10.60 (IRR = 0.71;= .006). Time and treatment were not found to be statistically significantly associated with any of the secondary outcomes.
CONCLUSION: Yoga-based physical therapy is feasible and safe in the inpatient rehabilitation setting following TBI. Sleep quality improved following the addition of a one-hour seated rest in a relaxing environment to a standard rehabilitation daily schedule, suggesting that structured rest time may be beneficial to sleep hygiene during inpatient rehabilitation following TBI. ClinicalTrials.Gov Registration Number: NCT03701594.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Whole mung bean and decorticated mung bean supplementation could prevent HFD and STZ-induced gut mic

Whole mung bean and decorticated mung bean supplementation could prevent HFD and STZ-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis.

The aim of this study is to investigate the beneficial effects of whole mung bean ( WMB ) and decorticated mung bean ( DMB ) on the regulation of serum glucose and lipid disorders in high-fat diet ( HFD ) and streptozotocin ( STZ ) -induced prediabetic mice , and to further explore their gut microbiota modulatory effects .
In the present study , the ability of mung bean-based diets to combat prediabetes-related metabolic disorders was determined by assessing the changes in the physiological , biochemical , and histological parameters , and the gut microbiota composition of prediabetic mice .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can effectively alleviate HFD and STZ-induced impaired glucose tolerance ( P < 0.05 ) , which was accompanied by improvements in pancreaticβ-cell damage and hepatic steatosis .
However , only WMB supplementation significantly decreased the fasting blood glucose and fasting serum insulin levels by sensitizing insulin action ( P < 0.05 ) , and reduced the serum lipid profiles and glycosylated serum protein levels ( P < 0.05 ) .
Furthermore , high-throughput pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that WMB and DMB supplementation could prevent HFD and STZ-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benign bacteria , such as Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia , and the reduction of some harmful bacteria ( Staphylococcus and Enterococcus ) .
Overall , although decortication processing had an impact on the beneficial effects of mung bean , it did not cause the loss of all health benefits .

The aim of this study is to investigate the beneficial effects of whole mung bean (WMB) and decorticated mung bean (DMB) on the regulation of serum glucose and lipid disorders in high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced prediabetic mice, and to further explore their gut microbiota modulatory effects. In the present study, the ability of mung bean-based diets to combat prediabetes-related metabolic disorders was determined by assessing the changes in the physiological, biochemical, and histological parameters, and the gut microbiota composition of prediabetic mice. The supplementation of both WMB and DMB can effectively alleviate HFD and STZ-induced impaired glucose tolerance (P<0.05), which was accompanied by improvements in pancreaticβ-cell damage and hepatic steatosis. However, only WMB supplementation significantly decreased the fasting blood glucose and fasting serum insulin levels by sensitizing insulin action (P<0.05), and reduced the serum lipid profiles and glycosylated serum protein levels (P<0.05). Furthermore, high-throughput pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that WMB and DMB supplementation could prevent HFD and STZ-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, especially for the enrichment of some benign bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia, and the reduction of some harmful bacteria (Staphylococcus and Enterococcus). Overall, although decortication processing had an impact on the beneficial effects of mung bean, it did not cause the loss of all health benefits.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Turmeric and fenugreek-enriched nutrient mixture from germinated Macrotyloma uniflorum and Vigna rad

Turmeric and fenugreek-enriched nutrient mixture from germinated Macrotyloma uniflorum and Vigna radiate ameliorate nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases.

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver is increasing due to modern lifestyle .
Germinated and dehulled Macrotyloma uniflorum and Vigna radiate were shown to have enhanced nutrients .
Curcuma longa and Trigonella foenum graecum were proven hepatoprotective.The supplementation of the nutrient herbal mixture to the MCD diet-induced steatosis shows reduced hepatic fat accumulation and lipid profile , and liver injury markers in serum also reserved in normal .
Increased serum albumin in the treatment group indicates that the liver function is enhanced than that of steatosis .
The supplementation of the herbal mixture has preserved the hepatic antioxidant .
Zymographic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ determination of α-SMA , and histological evolution ( H & E , Sirius red ) depicted reduced fibrosis and reveled management of hepatic stellate cells in quiescent form .
The present study concludes that the herbal mixture has reduced hepatocyte fat accumulation in steatotic animals , and curtailed the oxidative stress , further it prevents the progression of steatohepatitis .
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS : Fatty liver diseases can be treated by modulating the diet composition such as consuming food rich in the nutrient herbal mixture .
In this study , the nutrient mixture was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as germination , dehulling , and milling to augment the nutritional contents .
Besides , Macrotyloma uniflorum , Vigna radiate , Curcuma longa , and Trigonella foenum graecum were used to improve the medicinal value and antioxidant .
This formulation could target the various stages of NAFLD .
This study revealed that the nutrient herbal mixture reduces the steatosis of the liver and curtailed the progression of steatohepatitis from hepatic steatosis .
Since the edible foodstuff was used to make the nutrient mixture , it has excellent clinical application .

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver is increasing due to modern lifestyle. Germinated and dehulled Macrotyloma uniflorum and Vigna radiate were shown to have enhanced nutrients. Curcuma longa and Trigonella foenum graecum were proven hepatoprotective.The supplementation of the nutrient herbal mixture to the MCD diet-induced steatosis shows reduced hepatic fat accumulation and lipid profile,and liver injury markers in serum also reserved in normal. Increased serum albumin in the treatment group indicates that the liver function is enhanced than that of steatosis. The supplementation of the herbal mixture has preserved the hepatic antioxidant. Zymographic analysis of matrix metalloproteinase, western blot determination of α-SMA, and histological evolution (H&E, Sirius red) depicted reduced fibrosis and reveled management of hepatic stellate cells in quiescent form. The present study concludes that the herbal mixture has reduced hepatocyte fat accumulation in steatotic animals, and curtailed the oxidative stress, further it prevents the progression of steatohepatitis. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Fatty liver diseases can be treated by modulating the diet composition such as consuming food rich in the nutrient herbal mixture. In this study, the nutrient mixture was made with dynamic food processing techniques such as germination, dehulling, and milling to augment the nutritional contents. Besides, Macrotyloma uniflorum, Vigna radiate, Curcuma longa, and Trigonella foenum graecum were used to improve the medicinal value and antioxidant. This formulation could target the various stages of NAFLD. This study revealed that the nutrient herbal mixture reduces the steatosis of the liver and curtailed the progression of steatohepatitis from hepatic steatosis. Since the edible foodstuff was used to make the nutrient mixture, it has excellent clinical application.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Fenugreek seed intake has some beneficial effects on FPG, SBP, and some liver and kidney function te

Fenugreek seed intake has some beneficial effects on FPG, SBP, and some liver and kidney function tests in patients with T2DM.

OBJECTIVES : This study was designed to determine the effects of fenugreek seed ( FS ) on serum irisin levels , blood pressure , and liver and kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus ( T2DM ) .
METHODS : In an 8-week randomized controlled clinical trial , T2DM patients ( n = 50 ) were assigned to the intervention ( 5 g FS powder , 3 times a day ) or control group .
Both groups received anti-diabetic drugs and nutritional consults .
Serum samples were collected and blood pressure was measured at baseline and end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and physical activity was determined using the questionnaires .
RESULTS : Compared to the control group , FS consumption resulted in a significant decrease in fasting plasma glucose ( FPG ) ( p = 0.024 ) , as well as a significant change in serum alanine aminotransferase ( ALT ) ( p = 0.02 ) and alkaline phosphatase ( ALP ) ( p = 0.001 ) .
Within-group analysis showed a significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase ( AST ) ( p = 0.014 ) , systolic blood pressure ( SBP ) ( p @ @ @ @ @ @ @ p = 0.001 ) in the FS group , and a significant increase in creatinine ( Cr ) ( p = 0.001 ) and decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate ( eGFR ) ( p = 0.001 ) in the control group .
FS consumption did not have any significant effect on diastolic blood pressure ( DBP ) and blood urea nitrogen ( BUN ) .
CONCLUSION : FS intake has some beneficial effects on FPG , SBP , and some liver and kidney function tests in patients with T2DM .
Further studies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FS on irisin levels .
Trial registration number https : //www.irct.ir , code : IRCT20190618043924N1 .

OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to determine the effects of fenugreek seed (FS) on serum irisin levels, blood pressure, and liver and kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
METHODS: In an 8-week randomized controlled clinical trial, T2DM patients (n = 50) were assigned to the intervention (5 g FS powder, 3 times a day) or control group. Both groups received anti-diabetic drugs and nutritional consults. Serum samples were collected and blood pressure was measured at baseline and end of the trial. Data on dietary intake and physical activity was determined using the questionnaires.
RESULTS: Compared to the control group, FS consumption resulted in a significant decrease in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (p = 0.024), as well as a significant change in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p = 0.02) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p = 0.001). Within-group analysis showed a significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p = 0.014), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p = 0.001), and irisin (p = 0.001) in the FS group, and a significant increase in creatinine (Cr) (p = 0.001) and decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (p = 0.001) in the control group. FS consumption did not have any significant effect on diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN).
CONCLUSION: FS intake has some beneficial effects on FPG, SBP, and some liver and kidney function tests in patients with T2DM. Further studies are required to investigate the effect of FS on irisin levels. Trial registration number https://www.irct.ir, code: IRCT20190618043924N1.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Fenugreek supplementation significantly improved lipid profile.

Various studies have shown that Trigonella foenum-graecum ( fenugreek ) supplementation has lipid-lowering activity .
This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of fenugreek supplementation on human serum lipid profile .
Data sources were PubMed , EMBASE , Scopus , and Coherence library which were searched systematically from January 2000 up to December 2019 .
Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trial ( RCT ) study design , at least one of lipid profile components ( triglyceride [ TG ] , total cholesterol [ TC ] , low-density lipoprotein cholesterol , and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ) levels measured before fenugreek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level reported as result .
The pooled weighted mean difference ( MD ) and its 95 % confidence interval ( CI ) were calculated and pooled using a random-effect model .
Only articles published in English were considered .
Fifteen RCTs involving 281 cases consumed fenugreek and 255 control cases in controlled group ( 11 articles ) and 136 cases in uncontrolled group ( 4 articles ) were analyzed in our study .
Pooled data of indicated a significant impact of fenugreek supplementation on lowering TC ( -1.13 [ -1.88 , -0.37 ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lipoprotein ( LDL ) ( -1.26 [ -2.09 , -0.43 ] ; p = .003 ) , and TG ( -1.07 [ -1.82 , -0.33 ] ; p = 0.005 ) and increasing the high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) level ( 0.70 [ 0.07 , 1.34 ] ; p = .03 ) compared with the control group .
There were no significant differences in TC , TG , and LDL between pre- and post-fenugreek studies in the noncontrolled studies however , the result of combination of four studies without control group showed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ 0.33,1.29 ] ; p-value = .001 ) .
The results of subgroup analysis showed that the fenugreek reduced the TG and LDL and increases HDL levels in diabetic subjects more effectively .
Fenugreek supplementation significantly improved lipid profile ( LDL , TG , TC , and HDL ) .
It could be considered as an effective lipid-lowering medicinal plant .
Further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the plant .

Various studies have shown that Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) supplementation has lipid-lowering activity. This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of fenugreek supplementation on human serum lipid profile. Data sources were PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Coherence library which were searched systematically from January 2000 up to December 2019. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trial (RCT) study design, at least one of lipid profile components (triglyceride [TG], total cholesterol [TC], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels measured before fenugreek use and one of the lipid components level reported as result. The pooled weighted mean difference (MD) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated and pooled using a random-effect model. Only articles published in English were considered. Fifteen RCTs involving 281 cases consumed fenugreek and 255 control cases in controlled group (11 articles) and 136 cases in uncontrolled group (4 articles) were analyzed in our study. Pooled data of indicated a significant impact of fenugreek supplementation on lowering TC (-1.13 [-1.88, -0.37]; p = .003), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (-1.26 [-2.09, -0.43]; p = .003), and TG (-1.07 [-1.82, -0.33]; p = 0.005) and increasing the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level (0.70 [0.07, 1.34]; p = .03) compared with the control group. There were no significant differences in TC, TG, and LDL between pre- and post-fenugreek studies in the noncontrolled studies however, the result of combination of four studies without control group showed a significant increase in mean HDL (0.81 [0.33,1.29]; p-value = .001). The results of subgroup analysis showed that the fenugreek reduced the TG and LDL and increases HDL levels in diabetic subjects more effectively. Fenugreek supplementation significantly improved lipid profile (LDL, TG, TC, and HDL). It could be considered as an effective lipid-lowering medicinal plant. Further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the plant.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Fenugreek supplementation is an effective nutritional intervention for improving aging male symptoms

Fenugreek supplementation is an effective nutritional intervention for improving aging male symptoms, anxiety levels, grip strength.

Objectives Limited research has examined the effects of fenugreek ( Trigonella foenum-graecum L. ) supplementation to improve healthy younger men @ @ @ @ @ The study objective was to examine whether a fenugreek seed extract would improve healthy men @ @ @ @ @ health-related quality of life ( HRQoL ) , grip strength , and anxiety .
Methods @ @ @ @ @ employed , using a parallel design , with assessments at baseline , Day 30 , @ @ @ @ @ male volunteers ( n = 57 , mean age = 26.1 years ) were randomized @ @ @ @ @ ( n = 19 ) , fenugreek 500 mg/d ( n = 19 ) , @ @ @ @ @ = 19 ) .
Results The fenugreek groups reported significant improvements in aging male symptoms @ @ @ @ @ strength , and indicators of HRQoL compared tothe placebo group , p 's

Objectives Limited research has examined the effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) supplementation to improve healthy younger men's aging male symptoms. The study objective was to examine whether a fenugreek seed extract would improve healthy men's aging male symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), grip strength, and anxiety. Methods Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial was employed, using a parallel design, with assessments at baseline, Day 30, and Day 60. Healthy male volunteers (n = 57, mean age = 26.1 years) were randomized to: fenugreek 400 mg/d (n = 19), fenugreek 500 mg/d (n = 19), or placebo group (n = 19). Results The fenugreek groups reported significant improvements in aging male symptoms, anxiety levels, grip strength, and indicators of HRQoL compared tothe placebo group, p's < 0.05. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion Fenugreek supplementation is an effective nutritional intervention for improving aging male symptoms, anxiety levels, grip strength, and aspects of HRQoL in healthy recreationally active men. Future researchers are encouraged to examine the healthand ergogenic effects of fenugreek supplementation in hypogonadal and older populations. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT03528538.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Effect of combined extracts of aged garlic, ginger, and chili peppers on cognitive performance and b

Effect of combined extracts of aged garlic, ginger, and chili peppers on cognitive performance and brain antioxidant markers.

A combination of aged garlic , ginger , and chili peppers extracts ( AGC ) was studied by high-performance liquid chromatography , 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl , and ferric-reducing antioxidant assays , and oxidative stress markers were analyzed in Aβ1-42-induced rats .
The AGC was orally administered to Wistar rats at doses of 125 , 250 , and 500 mg/kg body weight ( AGC125 , AGC250 , AGC500 , respectively ) for 64 days .
At day 56 , Aβ1-42 was injected via both sides of the lateral ventricles .
The effects of the AGC on spatial and recognition memory were examined using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognition tasks .
Rats induced with Aβ1-42 exhibited obvious cognitive deficits , as demonstrated by their increased escapelatency time ( ET ) and decreased retention time ( RT ) and percentage of discriminative index ( DI ) .
When compared with the control group , all AGC-treated rats showed significantly shorter ETs and higher DIs during the 5-min delay testing phase .
Rats treated with AGC250 also had significantly longer RTs .
Administration of Aβ1-42 significantly increased malondialdehyde ( MDA ) levels and decreased superoxide dismutase ( SOD ) , catalase ( CAT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) levels in the rat brain homogenate .
Pretreatment with the AGC caused significant increases in SOD , GPx , and CAT activities , aswell as a significant decrease in MDA in the rat brain homogenates after Aβ-induced neurotoxicity .
Our results suggested that an AGC may ameliorate cognitive dysfunction in Aβ-treated rats due to its role in the upregulation of SOD , GPx , and CAT .

A combination of aged garlic, ginger, and chili peppers extracts (AGC) was studied by high-performance liquid chromatography, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, and ferric-reducing antioxidant assays, and oxidative stress markers were analyzed in Aβ1-42-induced rats. The AGC was orally administered to Wistar rats at doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg body weight (AGC125, AGC250, AGC500, respectively) for 64 days. At day 56, Aβ1-42 was injected via both sides of the lateral ventricles. The effects of the AGC on spatial and recognition memory were examined using a Morris water maze and novel object recognition tasks. Rats induced with Aβ1-42 exhibited obvious cognitive deficits, as demonstrated by their increased escapelatency time (ET) and decreased retention time (RT) and percentage of discriminative index (DI). When compared with the control group, all AGC-treated rats showed significantly shorter ETs and higher DIs during the 5-min delay testing phase. Rats treated with AGC250 also had significantly longer RTs. Administration of Aβ1-42 significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels in the rat brain homogenate. Pretreatment with the AGC caused significant increases in SOD, GPx, and CAT activities, aswell as a significant decrease in MDA in the rat brain homogenates after Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. Our results suggested that an AGC may ameliorate cognitive dysfunction in Aβ-treated rats due to its role in the upregulation of SOD, GPx, and CAT.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Aged garlic extract inhibits coronary artery calcification progression, lowers IL–6, glucose levels

Aged garlic extract inhibits coronary artery calcification progression, lowers IL–6, glucose levels and blood pressure.

BACKGROUND : One of the most serious secondary manifestations of Cardiovascular Disease ( CVD ) is coronary atherosclerosis .
This study aimed to evaluate whether aged garlic extract ( AGE ) can influence coronary artery calcification ( CAC ) and to predict the individual effect of AGE using a standard process for data mining ( CRISP-DM ) .
METHOD : This was a single-center parallel randomized controlled study in a university hospital in Europe .
Patients were randomized , in a double-blind manner , through a computer-generated randomization chart .
Patients with a Framingham risk score ≥ 10 after CT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ randomized to an intake of placebo or AGE ( 2400 mg daily ) for 1 year .
Main outcome measures were changes in CAC score and secondary outcome measures changes in blood pressure , fasting blood glucose , blood lipids and inflammatory biomarkers .
RESULT : 104 patients were randomized and 46 in the active group and 47 in the placebo group were analyzed .
There was a significant ( p CONCLUSIONS : AGE inhibits CAC progression , lowers IL-6 , glucose levels and blood pressure in patients at increased risk of cardiovascular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ algorithm was made and was used to predict with 80 % precision which patient will have a significantly reduced CAC progression using AGE .
The algorithm could also predict with a 74 % precision which patient will have a significant blood pressure lowering effect pressure using AGE .

BACKGROUND: One of the most serious secondary manifestations of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is coronary atherosclerosis. This study aimed to evaluate whether aged garlic extract (AGE) can influence coronary artery calcification (CAC) and to predict the individual effect of AGE using a standard process for data mining (CRISP-DM).
METHOD: This was a single-center parallel randomized controlled study in a university hospital in Europe. Patients were randomized, in a double-blind manner, through a computer-generated randomization chart. Patients with a Framingham risk score ≥ 10 after CT scan (n = 104) were randomized to an intake of placebo or AGE (2400 mg daily) for 1 year. Main outcome measures were changes in CAC score and secondary outcome measures changes in blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, blood lipids and inflammatory biomarkers.
RESULT: 104 patients were randomized and 46 in the active group and 47 in the placebo group were analyzed. There was a significant (p < 0.05) change in CAC progression (OR: 2.95 [1.05-8.27]), blood glucose (OR: 3.1 [1.09-8.85]) and IL-6 (OR 2.56 [1.00-6.53]) in favor of the active group. There was also a significant (p = 0.027) decrease in systolic blood pressure in the AGE group, from a mean of 148 (SD: 19) mmHg at 0 months, to 140 (SD: 15) mmHg after 12 months. The AGE Algorithm, at a selected probability cut-off value of 0.5, the accuracy score for CAC progression was 80%, precision score of 79% and recall score 83%. The score for blood pressure was 74% (accuracy, precision and recall). There were no side-effectsin either group.
CONCLUSIONS: AGE inhibits CAC progression, lowers IL-6, glucose levels and blood pressure in patients at increased risk of cardiovascular events in a European cohort. An algorithm was made and was used to predict with 80% precision which patient will have a significantly reduced CAC progression using AGE. The algorithm could also predict with a 74% precision which patient will have a significant blood pressure lowering effect pressure using AGE.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical trials NCT03860350, retrospectively registered (1/32019).


greenmedinfo--2020-06-13--Garlic powder supplementation improved risk factors of NAFLD.

BACKGROUND : Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease ( NAFLD ) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide .
Insulin resistance @ @ @ @ @ obesity are major contributors to NAFLD pathogenesis .
The effects of garlic powder supplementation on @ @ @ @ @ with NAFLD was investigated .
METHODS : In this 12-wk , randomized controlled clinical trial @ @ @ @ @ were randomly assigned to two groups .
The treatment group received four tablets of garlic @ @ @ @ @ 400 mg garlic powder ) daily and the control group received four tablets of placebo @ @ @ @ @ 400 mg starch ) .
RESULTS : A significant decrease was seen in the treatment @ @ @ @ @ group in waist circumference ( P = 0.001 ) , body fat percent ( P @ @ @ @ @ improved risk factors of NAFLD .
Further studies are needed to determine the effects of @ @ @ @ @ patients with NAFLD .
The study protocol was registered at Iranian clinical trials website under @ @ @

BACKGROUND: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and obesity are major contributors to NAFLD pathogenesis. The effects of garlic powder supplementation on these risk factors in patients with NAFLD was investigated.
METHODS: In this 12-wk, randomized controlled clinical trial, ninety patients with NAFLD were randomly assigned to two groups. The treatment group received four tablets of garlic (each coated tablet contained 400 mg garlic powder) daily and the control group received four tablets of placebo (each coated tablet contained 400 mg starch).
RESULTS: A significant decrease was seen in the treatment group compared to the control group in waist circumference (P = 0.001), body fat percent (P < 0.001), serum concentration of fasting blood sugar (P = 0.01), insulin (P < 0.001), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (P < 0.001), and malondialdehyde (P < 0.001), as well as significant increase in skeletal muscle mass (P = 0.002), serum concentration of superoxide dismutase (P < 0.001), and total antioxidant capacity (P < 0.001).
CONCLUSION: Garlic powder supplementation improved risk factors of NAFLD. Further studies are needed to determine the effects of garlic on hepatic features in patients with NAFLD. The study protocol was registered at Iranian clinical trials website under code IRCT20170206032417N4.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-14--Virgin coconut oil at a low dose could be used to reverse hepatic structural alteration and some bio

Virgin coconut oil at a low dose could be used to reverse hepatic structural alteration and some biochemical deviations in obese condition.

There is no report in literature on possible physiological changes that accompany dietary modification in obese condition .
Moreover , there is no conclusive evidence on the optimal amount of virgin coconut oil ( VCO ) that could be of health benefit , although it is known to enhance lipid metabolism .
Therefore , we investigated the antiobesitogenic action of graded doses of VCO ( 200 , 400 and 600 mg/kg ) in obese rats fed with normo/hyper-lipidaemic diet .
Sixty rats ( n = 10 ) were divided into 6 groups and treated as follows : the control and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were administered normal saline ( 0.1 mL/day , p.o . )
during the last four weeks of the study , and were fed with normal and HFD respectively throughout the twenty weeks duration of the experiment .
Groups 3-6 were fed with HFD for 16 weeks , then normal diet during the next 4 weeks .
While group - 3 received saline ( 0.1 mL/day , p.o . )
during the last four weeks , groups 4-6 received graded doses of VCO .
The results showed that HFD-induced obesity caused impaired glucose homeostasis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in hepatic function indices , pro-inflammatory , pro-oxidant , and dsylipidaemic effects .
There were evidence of escalated and reversed pathological actions following the replacement of HFD with normal diet .
VCO showed no effect on glucose , insulin , insulin resistance , total protein , uric acid and TAC ; but equitable effects on CAT , IL-6 , CRP , ALT , AST & GGT , irrespective of the dose .
Compared to the effects of VCO at 400 and 600 mg/kg , at 200 mg/kg , VCO had more significant therapeutic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , GPX , TC , TG , LDL-C , total bilirubin , atherogenic and lee indices and hepatic histoarchitecture .
Conclusively , VCO , preferably at a low dose could be used to reverse hepatic structural alteration and some biochemical deviations following dietary modifications in obese condition .

There is no report in literature on possible physiological changes that accompany dietary modification in obese condition. Moreover, there is no conclusive evidence on the optimal amount of virgin coconut oil (VCO) that could be of health benefit, although it is known to enhance lipid metabolism. Therefore, we investigated the antiobesitogenic action of graded doses of VCO (200, 400 and 600 mg/kg) in obese rats fed with normo/hyper-lipidaemic diet. Sixty rats (n = 10) were divided into 6 groups and treated as follows: the control and high fat diet (HFD) groups were administered normal saline (0.1 mL/day, p.o.) during the last four weeks of the study, and were fed with normal and HFD respectively throughout the twenty weeks duration of the experiment. Groups 3-6 were fed with HFD for 16 weeks, then normal diet during the next 4 weeks. While group - 3 received saline (0.1 mL/day, p.o.) during the last four weeks, groups 4-6 received graded doses of VCO. The results showed that HFD-induced obesity caused impaired glucose homeostasis, distorted hepatic histoarchitecture, selected deviations in hepatic function indices, pro-inflammatory, pro-oxidant, and dsylipidaemic effects. There were evidence of escalated and reversed pathological actions following the replacement of HFD with normal diet. VCO showed no effect on glucose, insulin, insulin resistance, total protein, uric acid and TAC; but equitable effects on CAT, IL-6, CRP, ALT, AST&GGT, irrespective of the dose. Compared to the effects of VCO at 400 and 600 mg/kg, at 200 mg/kg, VCO had more significant therapeutic effects on LDH, MDA, SOD, GPX, TC, TG, LDL-C, total bilirubin, atherogenic and lee indices and hepatic histoarchitecture. Conclusively, VCO, preferably at a low dose could be used to reverse hepatic structural alteration and some biochemical deviations following dietary modifications in obese condition.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-14--Curcumin enriched virgin coconut oil protects against 7,12-dimethyl benz[a] anthracene-induced skin

Curcumin enriched virgin coconut oil protects against 7,12-dimethyl benz[a] anthracene-induced skin papilloma.

Virgin coconut oil ( VCO ) and turmeric are traditionally being used in Indian cuisine systems ; VCO is a natural combination of medium-chain triglyceride and polyphenols with established pharmacological potential .
Curcumin isolated from turmeric is renowned for its anticancer properties , however , with limited clinical success due to poor bioavailability .
Considering the lipophilic nature of VCO , curcumin added to VCO is expected to have synergistic/additive actions .
In this study , the chemopreventive potential of curcumin enriched VCO ( VCr ) ( 4 and 8 mL/Kg orally ) was analyzed in 7,12-dimethyl benz [ a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ µL/week for two weeks topical ) /croton oil ( 3 % v/v in 200 µL acetone twice a week for 6 weeks topical ) induced skin papilloma .
In DMBA control animals , an average incidence of 13 papilloma/mice ( latency period of 11.6 ± 1.5 weeks ) was recorded .
Pretreatment with VCrH ( 8 mL/kg ) had a 60 % inhibition of tumor index , and an increased latency period ( 12.5 ± 0.9 weeks ) .
Additionally , DMBA/croton oil-induced reduction in glutathione levels and concomitant increase in thiobarbituric acid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skin microenvironment were restored by VCr .
The study thus suggests that the VCr promotes antioxidant statusand imparts an improved anticarcinogenic potential .
However , further studies are necessary to ascertain the improvement in bioavailability of curcumin .

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) and turmeric are traditionally being used in Indian cuisine systems; VCO is a natural combination of medium-chain triglyceride and polyphenols with established pharmacological potential. Curcumin isolated from turmeric is renowned for its anticancer properties, however, with limited clinical success due to poor bioavailability. Considering the lipophilic nature of VCO, curcumin added to VCO is expected to have synergistic/additive actions. In this study, the chemopreventive potential of curcumin enriched VCO (VCr) (4 and 8 mL/Kg orally) was analyzed in 7,12-dimethyl benz[a]anthracene (DMBA;470 nmoles/200 µL/week for two weeks topical)/croton oil (3% v/v in 200 µL acetone twice a week for 6 weeks topical) induced skin papilloma. In DMBA control animals, an average incidence of 13 papilloma/mice (latency period of 11.6 ± 1.5 weeks) was recorded. Pretreatment with VCrH (8 mL/kg) had a 60% inhibition of tumor index, and an increased latency period (12.5 ± 0.9 weeks). Additionally, DMBA/croton oil-induced reduction in glutathione levels and concomitant increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) in the skin microenvironment were restored by VCr. The study thus suggests that the VCr promotes antioxidant statusand imparts an improved anticarcinogenic potential. However, further studies are necessary to ascertain the improvement in bioavailability of curcumin .


greenmedinfo--2020-06-14--Allicin is a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of obesity and metabolic disorders.

Brown adipose tissue ( BAT ) is a promising potential therapeutic target for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic @ @ @ @ @ natural product in garlic , has multiple biological and pharmacological functions .
However , the @ @ @ @ @ regulation of metabolic organs , particularly BAT activation , has not been well studied .
@ @ @ @ @ allicin imparts a significant effect by inhibiting body weight gain , decreasing adiposity , maintaining @ @ @ @ @ resistance , and ameliorating hepatic steatosis in obese mice .
These observations strongly correlate with @ @ @ @ @ Notably , allicin plays a role in BAT activation , which may partly contribute to @ @ @ @ @ addition , allicin can significantly increase the succinylation levels of UCP1 in BAT by inhibiting @ @ @ @ @ induces autophagy/mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction .
Thus , our findings point to allicin as a @ @ @ @ @ treatment ofobesity and metabolic disorders .

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a promising potential therapeutic target for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic diseases. Allicin, a natural product in garlic, has multiple biological and pharmacological functions. However, the role of allicin in the regulation of metabolic organs, particularly BAT activation, has not been well studied. Here, we show that allicin imparts a significant effect by inhibiting body weight gain, decreasing adiposity, maintaining glucose homeostasis, improving insulin resistance, and ameliorating hepatic steatosis in obese mice. These observations strongly correlate with the activation of BAT. Notably, allicin plays a role in BAT activation, which may partly contribute to the Sirt1-PGC1α-Tfam pathway. In addition, allicin can significantly increase the succinylation levels of UCP1 in BAT by inhibiting sirt5, whereas excess allicin induces autophagy/mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, our findings point to allicin as a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment ofobesity and metabolic disorders.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-14--Allicin enhances the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer cells.

Radioresistance is an important factor affecting the radiotherapy effect of colorectal cancer ( CRC ) .
Allicin is a versatile sulfur-containing organic compound extracted from garlic ( Allium sativum L. ) , which has many pharmacological effects .
However , the effect of allicin on the sensitivity of CRC radiotherapy has not been confirmed .
The present study is to observe the radiosensitivity effects of allicin and to explore its mechanism in CRC radiotherapy .
The proliferation inhibition effects of allicin combined with X-ray radiotherapy in HCT116 cells were measured by growth curve of cell and colony formation assays .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 33258 nucleus staining assay .
The migration ability of cells was detected by Transwell chamber migration assay .
The animal model of CRC was established in BALB/c mice via transplantation of CT26 cell , and the radiosensitization effect of allicin on CRC was detected in vivo .
The mRNA expressions of NF-κB , IKKβ , and IκBα were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction ( RT-PCR ) .
The protein expressions of NF-κB , p-NF-κB , IKKβ , p-IKKβ , IκBα , and p-IκBα were detected by western blotting .
Our results showed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radiotherapy in CRC , and its mechanism may be associated with inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway .
These findings suggest that allicin may be used as a potential sensitizer for tumor radiotherapy in the clinic .

Radioresistance is an important factor affecting the radiotherapy effect of colorectal cancer (CRC). Allicin is a versatile sulfur-containing organic compound extracted from garlic (Allium sativum L.), which has many pharmacological effects. However, the effect of allicin on the sensitivity of CRC radiotherapy has not been confirmed. The present study is to observe the radiosensitivity effects of allicin and to explore its mechanism in CRC radiotherapy. The proliferation inhibition effects of allicin combined with X-ray radiotherapy in HCT116 cells were measured by growth curve of cell and colony formation assays. The cell apoptosis was detected by Hoechst 33258 nucleus staining assay. The migration ability of cells was detected by Transwell chamber migration assay. The animal model of CRC was established in BALB/c mice via transplantation of CT26 cell, and the radiosensitization effect of allicin on CRC was detected in vivo. The mRNA expressions of NF-κB, IKKβ, and IκBα were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The protein expressions of NF-κB, p-NF-κB, IKKβ, p-IKKβ, IκBα, and p-IκBα were detected by western blotting. Our results showed that allicin improves the sensitivity of X-ray radiotherapy in CRC, and its mechanism may be associated with inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings suggest that allicin may be used as a potential sensitizer for tumor radiotherapy in the clinic.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-14--Allicin exhibits a potent antihypertensive effect through vasodilatory properties and hydrogen sulfi

Allicin exhibits a potent antihypertensive effect through vasodilatory properties and hydrogen sulfide mechanisms.

BACKGROUND : Allicin , the principle active constituent in garlic , has been reported to have antihypertensive effects on drug-induced hypertension or renal hypertension in rats , but reports on spontaneously hypertensive rats ( SHRs ) are rare .
Allicin is comprised of a variety of sulfur-containing compounds , and hydrogen sulfide ( HS ) has been shown to have specific vasomotor effects .
We therefore hypothesize that allicin may exert a vasorelaxant activity by inducing HS production , and this eventually result in a reduction in blood pressure in SHRs .
METHODS : The in vivo antihypertensive effect of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on SHRs .
The in vitro vasorelaxant effect and in-depth mechanisms of allicin were explored on rat mesenteric arterial rings ( RMARs ) isolated from SD rats .
RESULTS : In the in vivo study , administration of allicin ( 7 mg/kg and 14 mg/kg , 4 weeks , i.g ) dramatically decreased the blood pressure in SHRs , which was also shown to be attenuated by HS synthase inhibitor ( PAG , 32 mg/kg , i.g ) .
In in vitro studies , allicin ( 2.50-15.77 mM ) produced a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by preincubation with PAG .
The removal of endothelium led to a decline in allicin 's vasorelaxation , which was almost completely mitigated when treatment was followed with PAG .
Inhibitors of nitric oxide ( NO ) and prostaglandin ( PGI ) pathways separately suppressed the vasorelaxation induced by allicin to a certain degree .
When the RMARs incubated with PAG were treated with or without the above inhibitors in separate groups , the relaxations caused by allicin were almost identical under both these conditions .
Moreover , allicin treatment increased cyclic guanosine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monophosphate ( cAMP ) levels ( downstream products of NO and PGIpathways ) , which was decreased by PAG .
Additionally , allicin increased the acetylcholine-induced endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor ( EDHF ) -mediated relaxation , which was unaffected by PAG .
CONCLUSION : Allicin exhibits a potent antihypertensive effect through vasodilatory properties and HS mechanisms .
Moreover , the vasodilation of allicin is partially dependent on endothelium .
The endothelium-dependent vasodilation of allicin is mediated by the NO-sGC-cGMP , PGI-AC-cAMP and EDHF pathways , of which HS participates in the first two but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent vasodilation can be predominantly attributed to HS production .

BACKGROUND: Allicin, the principle active constituent in garlic, has been reported to have antihypertensive effects on drug-induced hypertension or renal hypertension in rats, but reports on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) are rare. Allicin is comprised of a variety of sulfur-containing compounds, and hydrogen sulfide (HS) has been shown to have specific vasomotor effects. We therefore hypothesize that allicin may exert a vasorelaxant activity by inducing HS production, and this eventually result in a reduction in blood pressure in SHRs.
METHODS: The in vivo antihypertensive effect of allicin was assessed using a tail-cuff method on SHRs. The in vitro vasorelaxant effect and in-depth mechanisms of allicin were explored on rat mesenteric arterial rings (RMARs) isolated from SD rats.
RESULTS: In the in vivo study, administration of allicin (7 mg/kg and 14 mg/kg, 4 weeks, i.g) dramatically decreased the blood pressure in SHRs, which was also shown to be attenuated by HS synthase inhibitor (PAG, 32 mg/kg, i.g). In in vitro studies, allicin (2.50-15.77 mM) produced a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation on RMARs, which was obviously reduced by preincubation with PAG. The removal of endothelium led to a decline in allicin's vasorelaxation, which was almost completely mitigated when treatment was followed with PAG. Inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PGI) pathways separately suppressed the vasorelaxation induced by allicin to a certain degree. When the RMARs incubated with PAG were treated with or without the above inhibitors in separate groups, the relaxations caused by allicin were almost identical under both these conditions. Moreover, allicin treatment increased cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels (downstream products of NO and PGIpathways), which was decreased by PAG. Additionally, allicin increased the acetylcholine-induced endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) -mediated relaxation, which was unaffected by PAG.
CONCLUSION: Allicin exhibits a potent antihypertensive effect through vasodilatory properties and HS mechanisms. Moreover, the vasodilation of allicin is partially dependent on endothelium. The endothelium-dependent vasodilation of allicin is mediated by the NO-sGC-cGMP, PGI-AC-cAMP and EDHF pathways, of which HS participates in the first two but not the third one. The endothelium independent vasodilation can be predominantly attributed to HS production.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-14--A. sativum bulb can be effectively used to treat periodontal and dental caries infections.

Biofilm producing clinical bacterial isolates were isolated from periodontal and dental caries samples and identified as , ,and .
Among the identified bacterial species , andshowed strong biofilm producing capacity .
The other isolated bacteria , ,showed moderate biofilm formation .
These pathogens were subjected for the production of extracellular polysaccharides ( EPS ) in nutrient broth medium and the strainsynthesized more amounts of EPS ( 610 ± 11.2 µg/ml ) than ( 480 ± 5.8 µg/ml ) .EPS production was found to be less in ( 52 ± 3.8 µg/ml ) .The solvent extract ofbulb showed the phytochemicals such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alkaloids , saponins , flavonoids , tannins and sterioids .
The solvent extract ofbulb showed wide ranges of activity against the selected dental pathogens .
The difference in antibacterial activity of the solvent extract revealed differences in solubility of phytochemicals in organic solvents .
Ethanol extract was highly active againstS .
aureus ( 25 ± 2 mm ) .
The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration ( MIC ) of crude garlic bulb varied widely and this clearly showed that bacteria exhibits different level of susceptibility to secondary metabolites .
MIC value ranged between 20 ± @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration ( MBC ) value ranged from 60 ± 5 mg/l to 215 ± 7 mg/ml .
To conclude , bulb can be effectively used to treat periodontal and dental caries infections .

Biofilm producing clinical bacterial isolates were isolated from periodontal and dental caries samples and identified as,,and. Among the identified bacterial species,andshowed strong biofilm producing capacity. The other isolated bacteria,,showed moderate biofilm formation. These pathogens were subjected for the production of extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) in nutrient broth medium and the strainsynthesized more amounts of EPS (610 ± 11.2 µg/ml) than(480 ± 5.8 µg/ml).EPS production was found to be less in(52 ± 3.8 µg/ml).The solvent extract ofbulb showed the phytochemicals such as, carbohydrate, total protein, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and sterioids. The solvent extract ofbulb showed wide ranges of activity against the selected dental pathogens. The difference in antibacterial activity of the solvent extract revealed differences in solubility of phytochemicals in organic solvents. Ethanol extract was highly active againstS. aureus (25 ± 2 mm). The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of crude garlic bulb varied widely and this clearly showed that bacteria exhibits different level of susceptibility to secondary metabolites. MIC value ranged between 20 ± 2 mg/ml and 120 ± 6 mg/ml and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) value ranged from 60 ± 5 mg/l to 215 ± 7 mg/ml. To conclude,bulb can be effectively used to treat periodontal and dental caries infections.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--The results reported suggest the use of cacao by-products as an alternative for the treatment of hyp

Therapeutic approaches to decrease serum triglyceride ( TG ) concentrations are not successful mainly due to poor adherence or adverse effects of therapies .
In consequence , the search for new low-cost and safer therapeutic alternatives is mandatory .
Dark chocolate and cacao have shown promising results improving lipid profiles .
Recently , using cacao by-products to reduce elevated cardiometabolic risk markers in an animal model of obesity induced by a high-fat diet and fructose , we showed that TGs , low-density lipoprotein cholesterol , and the TG/high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) ratio decreased , suggesting that cacao by-products improved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Based on these results , as a proof of concept , a blinded placebo-controlled study was implemented to explore the effects of cacao by-products on anthropometric and biochemical variables in a group of overweight subjects participating in a program composed of reduced-calorie-diet counseling plus a simple aerobic exercise plan .
The results showed that counseling induced weight and abdominal circumference reductions in both groups .
TGs did not change in the control group ; however , TG decreased significantly by 54.9 mg/dL ( 27.9 % ) in the experimental group .
The TG/HDL @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the experimental group .
The results reported suggest the use of cacao by-products as an alternative for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia .

Therapeutic approaches to decrease serum triglyceride (TG) concentrations are not successful mainly due to poor adherence or adverse effects of therapies. In consequence, the search for new low-cost and safer therapeutic alternatives is mandatory. Dark chocolate and cacao have shown promising results improving lipid profiles. Recently, using cacao by-products to reduce elevated cardiometabolic risk markers in an animal model of obesity induced by a high-fat diet and fructose, we showed that TGs, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and the TG/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio decreased, suggesting that cacao by-products improved the metabolic function of obese animals. Based on these results, as a proof of concept, a blinded placebo-controlled study was implemented to explore the effects of cacao by-products on anthropometric and biochemical variables in a group of overweight subjects participating in a program composed of reduced-calorie-diet counseling plus a simple aerobic exercise plan. The results showed that counseling induced weight and abdominal circumference reductions in both groups. TGs did not change in the control group; however, TG decreased significantly by 54.9 mg/dL (27.9%) in the experimental group. The TG/HDL cholesterol ratio changed markedly (1.5) in the experimental group. The results reported suggest the use of cacao by-products as an alternative for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Music-based interventions may improve fibromyalgia syndrome.

OBJECTIVE : We evaluated the effects of music therapy on pain , depression and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia .
METHODS : Ten online databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of music therapy on fibromyalgia patients , published up to 1st January 2019 .
The results were filtered and independently extracted .
Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the chi-square test .
According to the outcome of the heterogeneity indices , either a fixed effect or a random effect model was used .
RESULTS : In total , seven randomized controlled trials were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the McGill Pain Scale , the Beck Depression Scale and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire were used as outcome measures .
Our evidence indicated that patient intervention with music therapy had lower scores on the Pain Visual Analog Scale ( 95 % confidence interval [ CI ] -2.22 to -1.18 , Z = 6.44 , P < 0.00001 , four studies ) and Beck Depression Scale ( 95 % CI -0.65 to -0.03 , Z = 2.17 , P = 0.03 , two studies ) .
No significant differences were observed on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and control groups ( 95 % CI -0.83 to -0.09 , Z = 1.59 , P = 0.11 ) .
A general qualitative description of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire results was given due to high heterogeneity ( I = 96 % , P < 0.00001 ) .
CONCLUSIONS : The music therapy is superior to non-music therapy in the treatment of pain , depression , and improvement of quality of life in fibromyalgia patients .
However , due to the low quantity and quality of the included studies , a larger number and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beneficial effects of music therapy .

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the effects of music therapy on pain, depression and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.
METHODS: Ten online databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of music therapy on fibromyalgia patients, published up to 1st January 2019. The results were filtered and independently extracted. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the chi-square test. According to the outcome of the heterogeneity indices, either a fixed effect or a random effect model was used.
RESULTS: In total, seven randomized controlled trials were included. The Pain Visual Analog Scale, the McGill Pain Scale, the Beck Depression Scale and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire were used as outcome measures. Our evidence indicated that patient intervention with music therapy had lower scores on the Pain Visual Analog Scale (95% confidence interval [CI] -2.22 to -1.18, Z = 6.44, P<0.00001, four studies) and Beck Depression Scale (95% CI -0.65 to -0.03, Z = 2.17, P = 0.03, two studies). No significant differences were observed on the McGill Pain Scale between the music intervention and control groups (95% CI -0.83 to -0.09, Z = 1.59, P = 0.11). A general qualitative description of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire results was given due to high heterogeneity (I = 96%, P<0.00001).
CONCLUSIONS: The music therapy is superior to non-music therapy in the treatment of pain, depression, and improvement of quality of life in fibromyalgia patients. However, due to the low quantity and quality of the included studies, a larger number and high-quality of RCTs are needed to confirm the beneficial effects of music therapy.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Music could be a powerful treatment strategy in dementia.

Dementia is a neurological condition characterized by deterioration in cognitive , behavioral , social , and emotional functions .
Pharmacological interventions are available but have limited effect in treating many of the disease 's features .
Several studies have proposed therapy with music as a possible strategy to slow down cognitive decline and behavioral changes associated with aging in combination with the pharmacological therapy.We performed a systematic review and subsequent meta-analysis to check whether the application of music therapy in people living with dementia has an effect on cognitive function , quality of life , and/or depressive state.The databases used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , PsycINFO , and the Cochrane Library .
The search was made up of all the literature until present .
For the search , key terms , such as '' music , '' '' brain , '' '' dementia , '' or '' clinical trial , '' were used.Finally , a total of eight studies were included .
All the studies have an acceptable quality based on the score on the Physiotherapy Evidence Database ( PEDro ) and Critical Appraisal Skills Program ( CASP ) scales .
After meta-analysis , it was shown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ function in people living with dementia , as well as quality of life after the intervention and long-term depression .
Nevertheless , no evidence was shown of improvement of quality of life in long-term and short-term depression.Based on our results , music could be a powerful treatment strategy .
However , it is necessary to develop clinical trials aimed to design standardized protocols depending on the nature or stage of dementia so that they can be applied together with current cognitive-behavioral and pharmacological therapies .

Dementia is a neurological condition characterized by deterioration in cognitive, behavioral, social, and emotional functions. Pharmacological interventions are available but have limited effect in treating many of the disease's features. Several studies have proposed therapy with music as a possible strategy to slow down cognitive decline and behavioral changes associated with aging in combination with the pharmacological therapy.We performed a systematic review and subsequent meta-analysis to check whether the application of music therapy in people living with dementia has an effect on cognitive function, quality of life, and/or depressive state.The databases used were Medline, PubMed Central, Embase, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library. The search was made up of all the literature until present. For the search, key terms, such as"music,""brain,""dementia,"or"clinical trial,"were used.Finally, a total of eight studies were included. All the studies have an acceptable quality based on the score on the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) scales. After meta-analysis, it was shown that the intervention with music improves cognitive function in people living with dementia, as well as quality of life after the intervention and long-term depression. Nevertheless, no evidence was shown of improvement of quality of life in long-term and short-term depression.Based on our results, music could be a powerful treatment strategy. However, it is necessary to develop clinical trials aimed to design standardized protocols depending on the nature or stage of dementia so that they can be applied together with current cognitive-behavioral and pharmacological therapies.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Effect of Korean folk music intervention on schizophrenia inpatients.

Schizophrenia can lead to inappropriate emotional behavior and issues with interpersonal relationship functioning as it becomes chronic .
This study @ @ @ @ @ of a Korean folk music therapy program on the emotional behavior and interpersonal relationship functioning @ @ @ @ @ Twenty inpatients with schizophrenia in a psychiatric ward in Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province were @ @ @ @ @ , and 24 in the control group .
The experimental group participated in a 15-session @ @ @ @ @ two 50-minute sessions per week .
For hypothesis testing , Wilks ' Lambda based on @ @ @ @ @ perform repeated measures ANOVA .
The experimental group showed statistically significantly higher levels of emotional @ @ @ @ @ , p

Schizophrenia can lead to inappropriate emotional behavior and issues with interpersonal relationship functioning as it becomes chronic. This study aimed to determine the effects of a Korean folk music therapy program on the emotional behavior and interpersonal relationship functioning of patients with schizophrenia. Twenty inpatients with schizophrenia in a psychiatric ward in Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province were included in the experimental group, and 24 in the control group. The experimental group participated in a 15-session music therapy program, with two 50-minute sessions per week. For hypothesis testing, Wilks' Lambda based on sphericity testing was used to perform repeated measures ANOVA. The experimental group showed statistically significantly higher levels of emotional behavior (F = 5.814, p < .020) and interpersonal relationship functioning (F = 21.72, p < .001) than the control group, indicating that the Korean folk music therapy program was an effective intervention.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Music therapy is a promising alternative intervention for the treatment of anxiety in patients with

Music therapy is a promising alternative intervention for the treatment of anxiety in patients with dementia.

BACKGROUND : Behavioural and Psychiatric Symptoms in dementia ( BPSD ) tend to be a crucial and big problem in dementia .
Anxiety several times remains under-diagnosed because it is often considered to be a psychological response to cognitive decline .
As only the 10 % of patients were correctly treated , the pharmacological treatment should be well- considered .
The aim of this study was to evaluate three non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of anxiety in dementia .
METHODS : A cross-over randomised controlled trial with 60 participants ( different types and stages of dementia ) conducted in Greece @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6 different groups of 10 participants each .
The non-pharmacological interventions that have been evaluated are : a ) Music Therapy b ) Exercise and c ) Aromatherapy & Massage .
The measurements that were used are : MMSE , ACE-R , GDS , FRSSD and NPI questionnaire .
The interventions lasted 5 days and there was two days off as a wash-out period .
There was no drop-out rate .
RESULTS : The study showed that the most effective intervention is Music therapy .
The second most effective intervention is Exercise and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In the parenthesis p results indicate that Music Therapy 's p is less than 0.05 in comparison with Exercise and Aromatherapy and Massage and therefore the sequence of the interventions does not interfere with the results .
( p = < 0.05 , p = 0.55 , accordingly ) .
Caregivers ' burden also reduced with MT .
In the parenthesis p results indicate Music Therapy 's p is less than 0.05 in comparison with the two other interventions and therefore the sequence of the interventions does not interfere with the results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0.05 , p = 0.19 ) .
CONCLUSIONS : Our results are in accordance with the current literature .
Music Therapy is a promising alternative intervention for the treatment of anxiety in PwD .
Music Therapy is an effective non-pharmacological treatment for the reduction of the caregivers ' burden , because of the anxiety symptoms in PwD , such as lack of sleep , lack of personal time , unhealthy lifestyle , lack of solutions on what to do with their patients etc .
The type of music , the duration of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There is a big need of further research with stronger possible evaluation methods .

BACKGROUND: Behavioural and Psychiatric Symptoms in dementia (BPSD) tend to be a crucial and big problem in dementia. Anxiety several times remains under-diagnosed because it is often considered to be a psychological response to cognitive decline. As only the 10 % of patients were correctly treated, the pharmacological treatment should be well- considered. The aim of this study was to evaluate three non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of anxiety in dementia.
METHODS: A cross-over randomised controlled trial with 60 participants (different types and stages of dementia) conducted in Greece. The sample was randomly assigned to 6 different groups of 10 participants each. The non-pharmacological interventions that have been evaluated are: a) Music Therapy b) Exercise and c) Aromatherapy&Massage. The measurements that were used are: MMSE, ACE-R, GDS, FRSSD and NPI questionnaire. The interventions lasted 5 days and there was two days off as a wash-out period. There was no drop-out rate.
RESULTS: The study showed that the most effective intervention is Music therapy. The second most effective intervention is Exercise and the third one is Aromatherapy and Massage. In the parenthesis p results indicate that Music Therapy's p is less than 0.05 in comparison with Exercise and Aromatherapy and Massage and therefore the sequence of the interventions does not interfere with the results. (p = <0.05, p = 0.55, accordingly). Caregivers' burden also reduced with MT. In the parenthesis p results indicate Music Therapy's p is less than 0.05 in comparison with the two other interventions and therefore the sequence of the interventions does not interfere with the results, as well (p = <0.05, p = 0.19).
CONCLUSIONS: Our results are in accordance with the current literature. Music Therapy is a promising alternative intervention for the treatment of anxiety in PwD. Music Therapy is an effective non-pharmacological treatment for the reduction of the caregivers' burden, because of the anxiety symptoms in PwD, such as lack of sleep, lack of personal time, unhealthy lifestyle, lack of solutions on what to do with their patients etc. The type of music, the duration of the intervention and the long-term benefits remain unclear. There is a big need of further research with stronger possible evaluation methods.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--The findings suggested that inhalation aromatherapy can reduce the severity of overt anxiety and pai

The findings suggested that inhalation aromatherapy can reduce the severity of overt anxiety and pain after C-section.

Background Anxiety is the most common psychological reaction in women during labor .
Similar to numerous other surgeries , postoperative pain is also reported following cesarean section ( C-section ) .
According to the ( Gate ) Control Theory , there is a relationship between pain and psychological problems such as anxiety .
Accordingly , the present study aimed to compare the effect of aromatherapy using lavender and Damask rose essential oils on the level of anxiety and severity of pain following C-section .
Methods This triple-group randomized clinical trial was performed on 90 mothers who visited Motahari Hospital of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2017 .
The incidence and severity of pain and anxiety were measured and recorded for all three groups prior to intervention .
The intervention groups underwent aromatherapy with lavender and Damask rose essential oils .
Patients were asked to inhale cotton balls , separately stained with three drops of each essential oil at a distance of 10 cm for 30 mins .
The severity of pain and anxiety was measured using the visual analogue scale ( VAS ) and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory ( STAI ) 5 min after the specified process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aromatherapy in a similar fashion with normal saline .
Finally , data were analyzed using descriptive statistical indices and ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests in SPSS 21 .
Results There was no significant difference between the three groups in the mean severity of pain and anxiety before the intervention ( p > 0.05 ) .
The mean severity of pain and overt anxiety in the lavender and Damask rose aromatherapy groups was significantly different than the control group after the intervention ( p < 0.001 ) .
In addition , no significant difference was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels of the two intervention groups after the intervention ( p > 0.05 ) .
Conclusions The findings suggested that inhalation aromatherapy can reduce the severity of overt anxiety and pain after C-section , with Damask rose essential oil showing a larger effect than lavender .

Background Anxiety is the most common psychological reaction in women during labor. Similar to numerous other surgeries, postoperative pain is also reported following cesarean section (C-section). According to the (Gate) Control Theory, there is a relationship between pain and psychological problems such as anxiety. Accordingly, the present study aimed to compare the effect of aromatherapy using lavender and Damask rose essential oils on the level of anxiety and severity of pain following C-section. Methods This triple-group randomized clinical trial was performed on 90 mothers who visited Motahari Hospital of Jahrom, Iran, for C-section in 2017. The incidence and severity of pain and anxiety were measured and recorded for all three groups prior to intervention. The intervention groups underwent aromatherapy with lavender and Damask rose essential oils. Patients were asked to inhale cotton balls, separately stained with three drops of each essential oil at a distance of 10 cm for 30 mins. The severity of pain and anxiety was measured using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) 5 min after the specified process, respectively. The control group underwent aromatherapy in a similar fashion with normal saline. Finally, data were analyzed using descriptive statistical indices and ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests in SPSS 21. Results There was no significant difference between the three groups in the mean severity of pain and anxiety before the intervention (p>0.05). The mean severity of pain and overt anxiety in the lavender and Damask rose aromatherapy groups was significantly different than the control group after the intervention (p<0.001). In addition, no significant difference was observed between the overt and overall anxiety levels of the two intervention groups after the intervention (p>0.05). Conclusions The findings suggested that inhalation aromatherapy can reduce the severity of overt anxiety and pain after C-section, with Damask rose essential oil showing a larger effect than lavender.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--These findings provide the possible mechanism of the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Petatewali

These findings provide the possible mechanism of the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Petatewalide B.

OBJECTIVES : Abnormal microglia secrete neuroinflammatory factors that play a pivotal role in neurodegenerative-disorder development .
Thus , regulating abnormal microglia-activation could be a promising therapeutic strategy .
The purposes of this study included investigating the effect of Petatewalide B on lipopolysaccharide- ( LPS- ) stimulated microglia and exploring the role of the AMPK/Nrf2- ( adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 ) signaling pathway in the anti-neuroinflammatory function of Petatewalide B .
METHODS : We divided the microglia into four groups : a control group , a Petatewalide B-treated group , an LPS-treated group , and an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four groups of microglia were experimented with , using the NO , ELISA , and promoter assays , and western blotting was conducted to determine LPS-stimulated neuroinflammatory responses .
RESULTS : We found that pretreatment with Petatewalide B strongly alleviates interleukin- ( IL- ) 1β , IL-6 , and tumor-necrosis-factor-α ( TNF-α ) production , and suppresses iNOS and nitric oxide ( NO ) overexpression in LPS-stimulated microglia .
The AMPK/Nrf2-signaling pathway is important for inducing anti-neuroinflammatory responses .
Mechanistic studies report that Petatewalide B increases nuclear-Nrf2 translocation , and heme oxygenase-1 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ H : quinone oxidoreductase 1 ( NQO1 ) expression in a dose-dependent manner .
Furthermore , Petatewalide B significantly up-regulates HO-1 and NQO1 by specifically improving antioxidant-response-elements-transcription activity .
We then investigated whether Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 contribute to the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Petatewalide B. Nrf2 , HO-1 , and NQO1 small-integrating-ribonucleic-acids ( siRNAs ) significantly blocked Petatewalide B-attenuated iNOS-promoter-activity in LPS-stimulated microglia .
Furthermore , Petatewalide B also up-regulated AMPK-phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner .
We next evaluated whether blocking AMPK-phosphorylation using an inhibitor ( compound C ) would critically affect anti-neuroinflammatory responses .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear-Nrf2 translocation and elevated HO-1 and NQO1 expression levels .
Our data also showed that AMPK-inhibitor pretreatment significantly reverses Petatewalide B-attenuated iNOS-promoter-activity in LPS-stimulated microglia .
CONCLUSIONS : Our findings provide the possible mechanism of the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Petatewalide B that result from beneficial responses in the AMPK/Nrf2-signaling pathway .

OBJECTIVES: Abnormal microglia secrete neuroinflammatory factors that play a pivotal role in neurodegenerative-disorder development. Thus, regulating abnormal microglia-activation could be a promising therapeutic strategy. The purposes of this study included investigating the effect of Petatewalide B on lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated microglia and exploring the role of the AMPK/Nrf2- (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) signaling pathway in the anti-neuroinflammatory function of Petatewalide B.
METHODS: We divided the microglia into four groups: a control group, a Petatewalide B-treated group, an LPS-treated group, and an LPS and Petatewalide B-treated group. The four groups of microglia were experimented with, using the NO, ELISA, and promoter assays, and western blotting was conducted to determine LPS-stimulated neuroinflammatory responses.
RESULTS: We found that pretreatment with Petatewalide B strongly alleviates interleukin- (IL-) 1β, IL-6, and tumor-necrosis-factor-α (TNF-α) production, and suppresses iNOS and nitric oxide (NO) overexpression in LPS-stimulated microglia. The AMPK/Nrf2-signaling pathway is important for inducing anti-neuroinflammatory responses. Mechanistic studies report that Petatewalide B increases nuclear-Nrf2 translocation, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) expression in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Petatewalide B significantly up-regulates HO-1 and NQO1 by specifically improving antioxidant-response-elements-transcription activity. We then investigated whether Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 contribute to the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Petatewalide B. Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 small-integrating-ribonucleic-acids (siRNAs) significantly blocked Petatewalide B-attenuated iNOS-promoter-activity in LPS-stimulated microglia. Furthermore, Petatewalide B also up-regulated AMPK-phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner. We next evaluated whether blocking AMPK-phosphorylation using an inhibitor (compound C) would critically affect anti-neuroinflammatory responses. We found that the AMPK-phosphorylation is associated with nuclear-Nrf2 translocation and elevated HO-1 and NQO1 expression levels. Our data also showed that AMPK-inhibitor pretreatment significantly reverses Petatewalide B-attenuated iNOS-promoter-activity in LPS-stimulated microglia.
CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide the possible mechanism of the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of Petatewalide B that result from beneficial responses in the AMPK/Nrf2-signaling pathway.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Butterbur leaves attenuate memory impairment and neuronal cell damage in amyloid beta-induced Alzhei

Butterbur leaves attenuate memory impairment and neuronal cell damage in amyloid beta-induced Alzheimer’s disease models.

Alzheimer 's disease ( AD ) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease , and is characterized by the accumulation of @ @ @ @ @ as a pathological hallmark .
Aβ plays a central role in neuronal degeneration and synaptic @ @ @ @ @ excessive oxidative stress .
In the present study , we explored whether leaves of ( @ @ @ @ @ Maxim .
( PL ) , called butterbur and traditionally used in folk medicine , @ @ @ @ @ neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo .
We found that PL protected Aβplaque-induced neuronal cell @ @ @ @ @ species generation in HT22 cells by elevating expression levels of phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element-binding @ @ @ @ @ and NAD ( P ) H quinine dehydrogenase 1 .
These neuroprotective effects of PL @ @ @ @ @ AD mouse models .
Moreover , administration of PL diminished Aβplaque-induced synaptic dysfunction and memory @ @ @ @ @ findings lead us to suggest that PL can protect neurons against Aβplaque-induced neurotoxicity and thus @ @ @ @ @ to regulate the progression of AD .

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease, and is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) as a pathological hallmark. Aβ plays a central role in neuronal degeneration and synaptic dysfunction through the generation of excessive oxidative stress. In the present study, we explored whether leaves of(Siebold&Zucc.) Maxim. (PL), called butterbur and traditionally used in folk medicine, show neuroprotective action against Aβplaque neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. We found that PL protected Aβplaque-induced neuronal cell death and intracellular reactive oxygen species generation in HT22 cells by elevating expression levels of phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element-binding protein, heme oxygenase-1, and NAD(P)H quinine dehydrogenase 1. These neuroprotective effects of PL were also observed in Aβplaque-injected AD mouse models. Moreover, administration of PL diminished Aβplaque-induced synaptic dysfunction and memory impairment in mice. These findings lead us to suggest that PL can protect neurons against Aβplaque-induced neurotoxicity and thus may be a potential candidate to regulate the progression of AD.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Evaluation of antioxidant activity of Petasites japonicus flower buds extracts.

The antioxidant activity offlower buds cultivated in Tokushima , Japan , was examinedand .
The flower bud extracts were assayed @ @ @ @ @ capacity or 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl ( DPPH ) radical scavenging activity .
Antioxidants in the 80 % @ @ @ @ @ online high-performance liquid chromatography-DPPH and were identified as caffeic acid , 3 -- caffeoylquinic acid @ @ @ @ @ acid , 3,5-di-caffeoylquinic acid , and 4,5-di-caffeoylquinic acid using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry .
Fukinolic acid @ @ @ @ @ based on its activity and abundance .
Administering the extracts orally to ICR mice prior @ @ @ @ @ plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substance ( TBARS ) production .
Moreover , TBARS and triglyceride @ @ @ @ @ C57BL/6 mice fed with a high fat diet were also significantly decreased by the extract @ @ @ @ @ antioxidative compounds incan be used in the management of oxidative stress .

The antioxidant activity offlower buds cultivated in Tokushima, Japan, was examinedand. The flower bud extracts were assayed using either oxygen radical absorbance capacity or 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. Antioxidants in the 80% ethanol extract were investigated using online high-performance liquid chromatography-DPPH and were identified as caffeic acid, 3--caffeoylquinic acid, fukinolic acid, 3,4-di-caffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-di-caffeoylquinic acid, and 4,5-di-caffeoylquinic acid using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fukinolic acid was the most active compound based on its activity and abundance. Administering the extracts orally to ICR mice prior to iron injection significantly suppressed plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) production. Moreover, TBARS and triglyceride concentrations in the plasma of C57BL/6 mice fed with a high fat diet were also significantly decreased by the extract. The results suggest that antioxidative compounds incan be used in the management of oxidative stress.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Chemical constituents of the leaves of butterbur and their anti-inflammatory effects.

Two new aryltetralin lactone lignans , petasitesins A and B were isolated from the hot water extract of the leaves @ @ @ @ @ with six known compounds .
The chemical structures of lignansandwere elucidated on the basis of @ @ @ @ @ resonance ( NMR ) spectroscopic data , electronic circular dichroism ( ECD ) and vibrational @ @ @ @ @ spectra .
Petasitesin A and cimicifugic acid D showed significant inhibitory effects on the production @ @ @ @ @ PGE ) and NO in RAW264.7 macrophages .
The expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase @ @ @ @ @ ( COX-2 ) were inhibited by compoundin RAW264.7 cells .
Furthermore , compoundsandexhibited strong affinities @ @ @ @ @ enzymes in molecular docking studies .

Two new aryltetralin lactone lignans, petasitesins A and B were isolated from the hot water extract of the leaves of butterbur () along with six known compounds. The chemical structures of lignansandwere elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic data, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra. Petasitesin A and cimicifugic acid D showed significant inhibitory effects on the production of both prostaglandin E2 (PGE) and NO in RAW264.7 macrophages. The expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were inhibited by compoundin RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, compoundsandexhibited strong affinities with both iNOS and COX-2 enzymes in molecular docking studies.


greenmedinfo--2020-06-15--Petatewalide B, a novel compound from Petasites japonicus with anti-allergic activity.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE : The giant butterbur Petasites japonicus is used to treat asthma and allergic diseases in traditional Korean , Japanese , and Chinese medicine .
AIM OF THE STUDY : To elucidate the anti-allergic effect of Petasites genus , we studied effects of several compounds from Petasites japonicus leaves and found a novel bakkenolide-type sesquiterpine .
In the present study , anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects of the new compound was examined using in vivo and in vitro experiments .
MATERIALS AND METHODS : The novel compound was isolated from Petasites japonicus leaves and named petatewalide B. Antigen-induced degranulation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in RBL-2H3 mast cells by measuringβ-hexosaminidase activity and fluorescence change of Ca ( 2+ ) probe , fura-2 .
Induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase 2 was measured by Western blotting in peritoneal macrophages .
In addition , ovalbumin-induced asthma model was used for in vivo efficacy test of petatewalide B.Membrane potential was estimated by measuring fluorescence change of DiBAC in C6 glioma cells .
RESULTS : Petatewalide B inhibited the antigen-induced degranulation ofβ-hexosaminidase in RBL-2H3 mast cells , but did not affect antigen-induced Ca ( 2+ ) increase in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the LPS-induced induction of iNOS , but not COX-2 in mouse peritoneal macrophages .
Nitric oxide production was also inhibited by petatewalide B in macrophages .
In the ovalbumin-induced asthma model , petatewalide B strongly inhibited accumulations of eosinophils , macrophages , and lymphocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid .
Petatewalide B increased the membrane potential of C6 glioma cells in a concentration-dependent manner .
CONCLUSION : Petatewalide B from Petasites genus not only has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects but also induces a transient increase of membrane potential in C6 glioma cells .

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The giant butterbur Petasites japonicus is used to treat asthma and allergic diseases in traditional Korean, Japanese, and Chinese medicine.
AIM OF THE STUDY: To elucidate the anti-allergic effect of Petasites genus, we studied effects of several compounds from Petasites japonicus leaves and found a novel bakkenolide-type sesquiterpine. In the present study, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects of the new compound was examined using in vivo and in vitro experiments.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The novel compound was isolated from Petasites japonicus leaves and named petatewalide B. Antigen-induced degranulation and Ca(2+) mobilization were measured in RBL-2H3 mast cells by measuringβ-hexosaminidase activity and fluorescence change of Ca(2+) probe, fura-2. Induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase 2 was measured by Western blotting in peritoneal macrophages. In addition, ovalbumin-induced asthma model was used for in vivo efficacy test of petatewalide B.Membrane potential was estimated by measuring fluorescence change of DiBAC in C6 glioma cells.
RESULTS: Petatewalide B inhibited the antigen-induced degranulation ofβ-hexosaminidase in RBL-2H3 mast cells, but did not affect antigen-induced Ca(2+) increase in the cells. Petatewalide B also showed inhibition of the LPS-induced induction of iNOS, but not COX-2 in mouse peritoneal macrophages. Nitric oxide production was also inhibited by petatewalide B in macrophages. In the ovalbumin-induced asthma model, petatewalide B strongly inhibited accumulations of eosinophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Petatewalide B increased the membrane potential of C6 glioma cells in a concentration-dependent manner.
CONCLUSION: Petatewalide B from Petasites genus not only has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects but also induces a transient increase of membrane potential in C6 glioma cells.