greenmedinfo--2020-09-19--Coronavirus Disinfectants May Be Extremely Hazardous to Health

Health officials ' 'List N ' includes disinfectants approved for use against SARS-CoV-2 , the virus that reportedly causes COVID-19 , but that does n't mean they 've been approved as safe for humans .
Now experts are worried we 'll be facing a new epidemic of health problems linked to these toxic chemical exposures The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic may turn out to be worse than the reported disease itself .
Experts have predicted a coming mental health crisis in the U.S. , as Americans struggle with financial insecurity , job losses , social isolation and fears about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Privacy concerns also continue to emerge , as contact tracing apps and other methods of surveillance morph into the new `` normal . ''
Unchecked disinfection procedures , including those recommended by public health agencies , are another major concern .
Prior to the pandemic , chemical disinfectants had been linked to health problems , but the accelerated pace at which these toxic chemicals are now being used is causing unprecedented levels of exposure -- with unknown consequences to human health .
'List N ' Disinfectants May Not Be Proven Safe for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) released `` List N , '' which is a list of about 400 disinfectants [ ii ] that meet the EPA 's criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2 .
[ iii ] To meet the criteria , the disinfectants must demonstrate effectiveness against a harder-to-kill virus or demonstrate efficacy against a human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2 .
`` [ T ] his does n't mean that they have been approved because they 're considered safe with regard to human health , '' exposure scientist Lesliam Quirós-Alcalá , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ School of Public Health , told Bloomberg .
[ iv ] While studies on many of the chemicals are limited , some have been linked to asthma and other respiratory conditions , reproductive effects and neurological and dermatological problems .
[ v ] Exposure to disinfectants and cleaning products has long been linked to health risks .
Among nurses , for instance , exposure to cleaning chemicals at work was associated with a 25 % to 38 % increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ) .
[ vi ] This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and quaternary ammonium compounds , variants of which are included on the EPA 's List N. Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine also found that women responsible for cleaning at home , or who worked as house cleaners , had accelerated declines in lung function , and long-term respiratory health was impaired 10 to 20 years after cleaning activities .
[ vii ] '' [ E ] xposures related to cleaning activities may constitute a risk to long-term respiratory health , '' the study concluded , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ function for women cleaners was similar to smoking a pack of cigarettes every day for 10 to 20 years .
`` The effect size was comparable to the effect size related to 10-20 pack-years of tobacco smoking , '' they wrote [ viii ] -- one `` pack-year '' is equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes ( one pack ) per day for one year .
Other common symptoms that can occur from exposure to chemical disinfectants include nausea , eye irritation and headaches .
Health risks likely increase with increased levels of disinfectant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the high frequency of application .
The EPA , in their guidance for cleaning and disinfecting public spaces and homes against COVID-19 , recommends surfaces frequently touched by multiple people , such as door handles , desks , faucets and light switches , be disinfected at least daily , with certain surfaces , such as shopping carts and sale keypads , being disinfected more often , including before each use .
[ ix ] Speaking with Bloomberg , Rich Feczko , national director of systems , standards and innovation at Crothall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the company is cleaning hundreds of hospitals has accelerated .
`` Our frequencies have ramped up in public places like lobbies and elevators to 6-8 times per day , '' with restrooms cleaned every two hours .
[ x ] '' This is a hazardous proposition , '' immunologist and allergist Dr. Claudia Miller told the news outlet .
`` Cleaners tend to go in with hugely toxic chemicals .
We 're creating another problem for a whole group of people , and I 'm not sure we 're actually controlling infections .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Be Especially Dangerous Adding to the problem is the way some of the disinfectants are being applied .
Using sprayers that aerosolized disinfectants is becoming increasingly popular during the pandemic , as it allows cleaners to cover far more space in a shorter period of time .
Electrostatic sprayers also add a positive charge so the chemicals stick to surfaces .
Not only have the risks of aerosolized disinfectants not been explored , but most of the disinfectants on List N have not been approved for aerosolizing , misting or fogging .
[ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that spraying the chemicals poses increased inhalation risks , as it generates micro-particles and possibly even smaller nanoparticles , which are absorbed into the body faster and in greater quantities than larger particles .
The New Jersey Department of Health ( NJDOH ) issued a health alert bulletin that fogging ambulances with toxic disinfectants may cause illness after four emergency medical technicians were diagnosed with work-related asthma .
`` Fogging is not recommended in ambulances , '' NJDOH warned , adding , `` Often , the active ingredients are respiratory irritants and sensitizers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , phenol , quaternary ammonium compounds ( `` quats '' ) , alcohols , or hydrogen peroxide compounds ( listed in decreasing order of toxicity ) .
`` [ xiii ] The World Health Organization ( WHO ) similarly warned , `` In indoor spaces , routine application of disinfectants to surfaces via spraying is not recommended for COVID-19 .
If disinfectants are to be applied , these should be via a cloth or wipe which is soaked in the disinfectant .
`` [ xiv ] Despite this , industrial cleaning companies are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for hospitals in school busses .
`` If we can spray it in a Hershey 's food plant or at a hospital , we can certainly spray it on a school bus , '' Bob Gorski , president of cleaning company Merrick Group , told Bloomberg .
[ xv ] Around the world , clouds of disinfectant are even being dispersed into the sky via drones , even though experts have warned the practice likely is not effective and could be toxic to humans .
[ xvi ] When it comes to chemical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , especially if they 're being used in an enclosed space like a vehicle , elevator or high-rise building with poor circulation .
For times when cleaning is necessary , there are many natural methods available for cleaning purposes , as well as safer disinfectants like ultraviolet light .
As it stands , however , the aggressive disinfection procedures being implemented in the name of COVID-19 could end up causing far more harm than good .
[ ix ] U.S. EPA , Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting April 28 , 2020 https : @

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2020
Health officials' 'List N' includes disinfectants approved for use against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that reportedly causes COVID-19, but that doesn't mean they've been approved as safe for humans. Now experts are worried we'll be facing a new epidemic of health problems linked to these toxic chemical exposures
The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic may turn out to be worse than the reported disease itself. Experts have predicted a coming mental health crisis in the U.S., as Americans struggle with financial insecurity, job losses, social isolation and fears about returning to public life.[i] Privacy concerns also continue to emerge, as contact tracing apps and other methods of surveillance morph into the new "normal."
Unchecked disinfection procedures, including those recommended by public health agencies, are another major concern. Prior to the pandemic, chemical disinfectants had been linked to health problems, but the accelerated pace at which these toxic chemicals are now being used is causing unprecedented levels of exposure -- with unknown consequences to human health.
'List N' Disinfectants May Not Be Proven Safe for Humans
In response to COVID-19, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released "List N," which is a list of about 400 disinfectants[ii] that meet the EPA's criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2.[iii] To meet the criteria, the disinfectants must demonstrate effectiveness against a harder-to-kill virus or demonstrate efficacy against a human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.
"[T]his doesn't mean that they have been approved because they're considered safe with regard to human health," exposure scientist Lesliam Quirós-Alcalá, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, told Bloomberg.[iv] While studies on many of the chemicals are limited, some have been linked to asthma and other respiratory conditions, reproductive effects and neurological and dermatological problems.[v]
Exposure to disinfectants and cleaning products has long been linked to health risks. Among nurses, for instance, exposure to cleaning chemicals at work was associated with a 25% to 38% increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).[vi] This included disinfectants with the active ingredients glutaraldehyde and quaternary ammonium compounds, variants of which are included on the EPA's List N.
Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine also found that women responsible for cleaning at home, or who worked as house cleaners, had accelerated declines in lung function, and long-term respiratory health was impaired 10 to 20 years after cleaning activities.[vii]
"[E]xposures related to cleaning activities may constitute a risk to long-term respiratory health," the study concluded, with researchers stating that the damage to respiratory function for women cleaners was similar to smoking a pack of cigarettes every day for 10 to 20 years.
"The effect size was comparable to the effect size related to 10-20 pack-years of tobacco smoking," they wrote[viii] -- one "pack-year" is equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes (one pack) per day for one year. Other common symptoms that can occur from exposure to chemical disinfectants include nausea, eye irritation and headaches.
Ramped Up Disinfecting a 'Hazardous Proposition'
Health risks likely increase with increased levels of disinfectant exposure, making coronavirus disinfectants particularly risky due to the high frequency of application.
The EPA, in their guidance for cleaning and disinfecting public spaces and homes against COVID-19, recommends surfaces frequently touched by multiple people, such as door handles, desks, faucets and light switches, be disinfected at least daily, with certain surfaces, such as shopping carts and sale keypads, being disinfected more often, including before each use.[ix]
Speaking with Bloomberg, Rich Feczko, national director of systems, standards and innovation at Crothall Healthcare, said the pace at which the company is cleaning hundreds of hospitals has accelerated. "Our frequencies have ramped up in public places like lobbies and elevators to 6-8 times per day," with restrooms cleaned every two hours.[x]
"This is a hazardous proposition," immunologist and allergist Dr. Claudia Miller told the news outlet. "Cleaners tend to go in with hugely toxic chemicals. We're creating another problem for a whole group of people, and I'm not sure we're actually controlling infections."[xi]
Spraying Disinfectants May Be Especially Dangerous
Adding to the problem is the way some of the disinfectants are being applied. Using sprayers that aerosolized disinfectants is becoming increasingly popular during the pandemic, as it allows cleaners to cover far more space in a shorter period of time. Electrostatic sprayers also add a positive charge so the chemicals stick to surfaces.
Not only have the risks of aerosolized disinfectants not been explored, but most of the disinfectants on List N have not been approved for aerosolizing, misting or fogging.[xii] Further, it's likely that spraying the chemicals poses increased inhalation risks, as it generates micro-particles and possibly even smaller nanoparticles, which are absorbed into the body faster and in greater quantities than larger particles.
The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) issued a health alert bulletin that fogging ambulances with toxic disinfectants may cause illness after four emergency medical technicians were diagnosed with work-related asthma.
"Fogging is not recommended in ambulances," NJDOH warned, adding, "Often, the active ingredients are respiratory irritants and sensitizers and include chemicals such as, chlorine, phenol, quaternary ammonium compounds ("quats"), alcohols, or hydrogen peroxide compounds (listed in decreasing order of toxicity)."[xiii]
The World Health Organization (WHO) similarly warned, "In indoor spaces, routine application of disinfectants to surfaces via spraying is not recommended for COVID-19. If disinfectants are to be applied, these should be via a cloth or wipe which is soaked in the disinfectant."[xiv] Despite this, industrial cleaning companies are moving to use spraying technologies once reserved for hospitals in school busses.
"If we can spray it in a Hershey's food plant or at a hospital, we can certainly spray it on a school bus," Bob Gorski, president of cleaning company Merrick Group, told Bloomberg.[xv] Around the world, clouds of disinfectant are even being dispersed into the sky via drones, even though experts have warned the practice likely is not effective and could be toxic to humans.[xvi]
When it comes to chemical disinfectants, reducing your exposure is wise, especially if they're being used in an enclosed space like a vehicle, elevator or high-rise building with poor circulation. For times when cleaning is necessary, there are many natural methods available for cleaning purposes, as well as safer disinfectants like ultraviolet light. As it stands, however, the aggressive disinfection procedures being implemented in the name of COVID-19 could end up causing far more harm than good.
References


greenmedinfo--2020-09-24--Open Letter From Medical Doctors and Health Professionals to all Belgian Authorities and all Belgian

Open Letter From Medical Doctors and Health Professionals to all Belgian Authorities and all Belgian Media

This website is for information purposes only .
By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing , treating @ @ @ @ @ or preventing any type of disease or medical condition .
Before beginning any type of @ @ @ @ @ treatment regimen , it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional @

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
© Copyright 2008-2023 GreenMedInfo.com, Journal Articles copyright of original owners, MeSH copyright NLM.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Pharmacological and pharmacokinetic effect of a polyherbal combination with Withania somnifera (L.)

Pharmacological and pharmacokinetic effect of a polyherbal combination with Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal for the management of anxiety.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE : In the Indian system of medicine , Withania somnifera ( L. ) Dunal , Hemidesmus indicus ( R.Br . )
, Aegle marmelos ( L. ) Correa , Emblica officinalis Gaertn , Ocimum sanctum ( L. ) has been mentioned as a remedy for the treatment of anxiety related disorders .
Based on their folklore use , a polyherbal combination was derived for the management of anxiety .
AIM OF THE STUDY : The present study is aimed to find the best polyherbal combination ( PHC ) , in terms of its pharmacological action , out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , prepared based on the previous studies conducted and to carry out the pharmacokinetic ( PK ) study of the best combination ( PHC3 ) .
MATERIALS AND METHODS : Pharmacological activities include elevated plus maze model and hole-board test for anti-anxiety screening , gamma amino-butyric acid ( GABA ) measurement in brain tissues and superoxide dismutase , lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione measurement for anti-oxidant screening .
CONCLUSIONS : The results of the studies revealed that PHC3 possessed significant anxiolytic , anti-oxidant activities and enhanced expression of GABAmediated inhibition when compared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rapid oral absorption in rat plasma .
The findings of this study greatly help to provide useful evidence for the development of suitable formulation using PHC3 .

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: In the Indian system of medicine, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, Hemidesmus indicus (R.Br.), Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, Emblica officinalis Gaertn, Ocimum sanctum (L.) has been mentioned as a remedy for the treatment of anxiety related disorders. Based on their folklore use, a polyherbal combination was derived for the management of anxiety.
AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study is aimed to find the best polyherbal combination (PHC), in terms of its pharmacological action, out of two PHC, namely PHC1 and PHC3, prepared based on the previous studies conducted and to carry out the pharmacokinetic (PK) study of the best combination (PHC3).
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pharmacological activities include elevated plus maze model and hole-board test for anti-anxiety screening, gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) measurement in brain tissues and superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione measurement for anti-oxidant screening.
RESULTS: PHC3 (100 mg/kg) produced statistically significant (p < 0.05) effect on all the pharmacological outcome measures when compared to alprazolam standard. Therefore, it was chosen for PK study. PK study was carried out using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy technique with respect to Withaferin-A. PK parameters such as maximum plasma concentration (C), 16.78 ± 5.32 ng/mL; time of maximum concentration (T), 18 ± 0.12min; half-life (T) 61.20 ± 9.87min; mean residual time (MRT), 7.53 h s; area under the concentration versus time curve (AUC), 1678 ± 34.13 ng/mL; area under the concentration versus time curve from zero to infinity (AUC), 1705 ± 28.87 ng/mL; total clearance (CL), 290.67 ± 15.89 mL/min and volume of distribution (V) 0.054 L were calculated.
CONCLUSIONS: The results of the studies revealed that PHC3 possessed significant anxiolytic, anti-oxidant activities and enhanced expression of GABAmediated inhibition when compared to PHC1. Withaferin-A in PHC3 exhibited a rapid oral absorption in rat plasma. The findings of this study greatly help to provide useful evidence for the development of suitable formulation using PHC3.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Phytochemical and antioxidant profiling of Ocimum sanctum.

The leaves ofwere extracted in methanol ( OsM ) and sequentially fractionated with n-hexane ( OsH ) , ethylacetate ( OsE ) and butanol ( OsB ) to find the best extraction solvent for antioxidants from the herb known for its medicinal values .
OsB was rich in both total polyphenolic content ( TPC ) ( 212.26 ± 6.3 mg GAE/g extract ) and total flavonoid contents ( TFC ) ( 54.51 ± 3.5 mg QE/g extract ) .
OsE also had significantly high TPC ( 202.71 ± 5.5 mg GAE/g extract ) .
The ECbased on DPPH ( 3.91 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.6 ± 0.1 μg/ml ) and phosphomolybdate ( 2.31 ± 0.1 μg/ml ) for OsB ; hydroxyl ( 5.3 ± 0.4 μg/ml ) , superoxide ( 7.32 ± 0.9 μg/ml ) radicals for OsM and DPPH ( 8.61 ± 0.6 μg/ml ) , phosphomolybdate ( 2.43 ± 0.1 μg/ml ) and ABTS ( 5.3 ± 0.4 μg/ml ) for OsE were lower than ascorbic acid showing potential antioxidant properties .
ECvalues of different fractions for DPPH anion , ABTS cation free radical scavenging and phosphomolybdate reducing property were significantly and positively correlated with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OsB and OsE showed the presence of luteolin , apigenin , rosmarinic , chlorogenic , caffeic acid and their derivatives .
Quercetin is extracted in ethylacetate fraction .
Overall data revealed thatleaf extracts in butanol and ethylacetate with high polyphenolics and flavonoids , had strong antioxidant potential .

The leaves ofwere extracted in methanol (OsM) and sequentially fractionated with n-hexane (OsH), ethylacetate (OsE) and butanol (OsB) to find the best extraction solvent for antioxidants from the herb known for its medicinal values. OsB was rich in both total polyphenolic content (TPC) (212.26 ± 6.3 mg GAE/g extract) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) (54.51 ± 3.5 mg QE/g extract). OsE also had significantly high TPC (202.71 ± 5.5 mg GAE/g extract). The ECbased on DPPH (3.91 ± 0.3 μg/ml), ABTS (1.6 ± 0.1 μg/ml) and phosphomolybdate (2.31 ± 0.1 μg/ml) for OsB; hydroxyl (5.3 ± 0.4 μg/ml), superoxide (7.32 ± 0.9 μg/ml) radicals for OsM and DPPH (8.61 ± 0.6 μg/ml), phosphomolybdate (2.43 ± 0.1 μg/ml) and ABTS (5.3 ± 0.4 μg/ml) for OsE were lower than ascorbic acid showing potential antioxidant properties. ECvalues of different fractions for DPPH anion, ABTS cation free radical scavenging and phosphomolybdate reducing property were significantly and positively correlated with TPC and TFC. LC-MS analysis of OsB and OsE showed the presence of luteolin, apigenin, rosmarinic, chlorogenic, caffeic acid and their derivatives. Quercetin is extracted in ethylacetate fraction. Overall data revealed thatleaf extracts in butanol and ethylacetate with high polyphenolics and flavonoids, had strong antioxidant potential.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Ascorbate status was positively associated with cognitive function in Parkinson's disease.

Oxidative stress is thought to contribute to the aetiology of neurological disorders such as Parkinson 's disease .
Ascorbate ( vitamin C ) is a potent antioxidant and is associated with neurological and cognitive function .
In this study we assessed the ascorbate status of a cohort of people with Parkinson 's disease ( = 215 ) , aged 50-90 years , compared with a cohort of age matched healthy controls ( = 48 ) .
The study sample 's cognitive status ranged from normal to mild cognitive impairment and dementia .
There was no difference between the Parkinson 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to mean ascorbate status , however , a higher proportion of participants with Parkinson 's disease had hypovitaminosis C ( i.e.
, < 23μmol/L ) compared with healthy controls ( 20 % vs. 8 % , respectively ) .
Within the Parkinson 's disease group , Montreal Cognitive Assessment ( MoCA ) scores correlated positively with ascorbate concentrations , with higher ascorbate status associated with better cognitive function ( = 0.14 , = 0.045 ) .
Participants with hypovitaminosis C had significantly lower MoCA scores relative to participants with ascorbate concentrations > 23µmol/L @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were significantly lower in the cognitively impaired subgroup compared with the normal cognition subgroup in the Parkinson 's disease cohort ( = 0.03 ) .
In contrast , urate showed an inverse correlation with cognitive function ( = -0.19 , = 0.007 ) , with higher urate concentrations observed in the cognitively impaired subgroup compared with the normal cognition subgroup ( = 0.015 ) .
There was an inverse association between ascorbate status and urate concentrations ( = -0.15 , = 0.017 ) .
Plasma protein carbonyls , a measure of systemic oxidative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Parkinson 's disease cohort and healthy controls , and there was no association with cognitive function ( = 0.09 , = 0.19 ) or with ascorbate status ( = -0.05 , = 0.45 ) .
Overall , our study showed ascorbate status was positively associated with cognitive function in Parkinson 's disease , suggesting that longitudinal studies investigating the temporal sequence of cognitive decline and ascorbate status are warranted .

Oxidative stress is thought to contribute to the aetiology of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Ascorbate (vitamin C) is a potent antioxidant and is associated with neurological and cognitive function. In this study we assessed the ascorbate status of a cohort of people with Parkinson's disease (= 215), aged 50-90 years, compared with a cohort of age matched healthy controls (= 48). The study sample's cognitive status ranged from normal to mild cognitive impairment and dementia. There was no difference between the Parkinson's disease and healthy control groups with respect to mean ascorbate status, however, a higher proportion of participants with Parkinson's disease had hypovitaminosis C (i.e.,<23μmol/L) compared with healthy controls (20% vs. 8%, respectively). Within the Parkinson's disease group, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores correlated positively with ascorbate concentrations, with higher ascorbate status associated with better cognitive function (= 0.14,= 0.045). Participants with hypovitaminosis C had significantly lower MoCA scores relative to participants with ascorbate concentrations>23µmol/L (= 0.014). Ascorbate concentrations were significantly lower in the cognitively impaired subgroup compared with the normal cognition subgroup in the Parkinson's disease cohort (= 0.03). In contrast, urate showed an inverse correlation with cognitive function (= -0.19,= 0.007), with higher urate concentrations observed in the cognitively impaired subgroup compared with the normal cognition subgroup (= 0.015). There was an inverse association between ascorbate status and urate concentrations (= -0.15,= 0.017). Plasma protein carbonyls, a measure of systemic oxidative stress, were not significantly different between the Parkinson's disease cohort and healthy controls, and there was no association with cognitive function (= 0.09,= 0.19) or with ascorbate status (= -0.05,= 0.45). Overall, our study showed ascorbate status was positively associated with cognitive function in Parkinson's disease, suggesting that longitudinal studies investigating the temporal sequence of cognitive decline and ascorbate status are warranted.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Ameliorative effect of Nigella sativa oil and vitamin C on the thyroid gland and cerebellum.

: Monosodium glutamate ( MSG ) is a major taste enhancer that is used as a food additive .
Vitamin C ( Vit C ) and Nigella sativa oil ( NSO ) are known for their potent antioxidant activities .
OBJECTIVE : This study investigates the adverse effect of MSG on the thyroid gland and cerebellum of adult male albino rats and the protection against MSG-mediated toxicity provided by Vit C and NSO .
DESIGN : Fifty rats were divided into five groups that were treated via oral gavage .
Group I ( control ) rats received distilled water , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 6 mg/gm body weight/day ) , Group III rats were treated with MSG and Vit C ( 100 mg/kg body weight /day ) , Group IV rats were treated with MSG and NSO ( 50 mg/kg body weight two times per week ) , and Group V rats were treated with MSG together with both Vit C and NSO with MSG .
After 60 days of treatment , rats were euthanized and histological sections were prepared from the thyroid gland and the cerebellum for routine staining and immunohistochemical detection of glial fibrillar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and proliferating cell nuclear antigen ( PCNA ) , respectively .
Cerebellar tissue was also evaluated to determine glutathione ( GSH ) and malondialdehyde ( MDA ) levels ; GSH was also measured in thyroid tissue .
Serum levels of fT3 , fT4 and TSH ( thyroid stimulating hormone ) were also evaluated .
RESULTS : Microscopic examination of cerebellar tissues revealed significant cerebellar injury and cellular apoptosis among the rats in Group II .
The thyroid glands of Group II rats were notable for degenerating follicles , loss of colloid , sloughed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The cerebellar and thyroid tissues from rats in treatment Groups III , IV and V revealed significantly less pathology .
Cerebellar and thyroid tissues from Group II rats that were treated with MSG alone revealed intense GFAP and caspase-3 ( cerebellar ) and PCNA ( thyroid ) immunoreactivity .
Furthermore , cerebellar tissues from rats received MSG alone ( Group II ) were notable for decreased levels of GSH and increased levels of MDA ; thyroid tissue from rats in Group II also demonstrated decreased levels of GSH .
Likewise , serum fT3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while serum TSH was significantly increased among rats in Group II .
Combined administration of Vit C and NSO together with MSG ( Group V ) revealed some variations in oxidative parameters compared to those in the Group I control rats .
CONCLUSIONS : Oral intake of MSG resulted in degenerative changes in neurons and astrocytes in cerebellum and , also degeneration of the thyroid glands of albino rats .
Concomitant administration of Vit C and NSO may limit MSG-induced damage to the cerebellum and thyroid glands and thereby provide significant protection against @ @ @ @ @ @ @

: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a major taste enhancer that is used as a food additive. Vitamin C (Vit C) and Nigella sativa oil (NSO) are known for their potent antioxidant activities.
OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the adverse effect of MSG on the thyroid gland and cerebellum of adult male albino rats and the protection against MSG-mediated toxicity provided by Vit C and NSO.
DESIGN: Fifty rats were divided into five groups that were treated via oral gavage. Group I (control) rats received distilled water, Group II rats were treated with MSG (6 mg/gm body weight/day), Group III rats were treated with MSG and Vit C (100 mg/kg body weight /day), Group IV rats were treated with MSG and NSO (50 mg/kg body weight two times per week), and Group V rats were treated with MSG together with both Vit C and NSO with MSG. After 60 days of treatment, rats were euthanized and histological sections were prepared from the thyroid gland and the cerebellum for routine staining and immunohistochemical detection of glial fibrillar acidic protein (GFAP), Caspase-3 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), respectively. Cerebellar tissue was also evaluated to determine glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels; GSH was also measured in thyroid tissue. Serum levels of fT3, fT4 and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) were also evaluated.
RESULTS: Microscopic examination of cerebellar tissues revealed significant cerebellar injury and cellular apoptosis among the rats in Group II. The thyroid glands of Group II rats were notable for degenerating follicles, loss of colloid, sloughed follicular cells and congested blood vessels. The cerebellar and thyroid tissues from rats in treatment Groups III, IV and V revealed significantly less pathology. Cerebellar and thyroid tissues from Group II rats that were treated with MSG alone revealed intense GFAP and caspase-3 (cerebellar) and PCNA (thyroid) immunoreactivity. Furthermore, cerebellar tissues from rats received MSG alone (Group II) were notable for decreased levels of GSH and increased levels of MDA; thyroid tissue from rats in Group II also demonstrated decreased levels of GSH. Likewise, serum fT3 and fT4 levels were significantly decreased, while serum TSH was significantly increased among rats in Group II. Combined administration of Vit C and NSO together with MSG (Group V) revealed some variations in oxidative parameters compared to those in the Group I control rats.
CONCLUSIONS: Oral intake of MSG resulted in degenerative changes in neurons and astrocytes in cerebellum and, also degeneration of the thyroid glands of albino rats. Concomitant administration of Vit C and NSO may limit MSG-induced damage to the cerebellum and thyroid glands and thereby provide significant protection against the oxidative damage induced by MSG.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--N. sativa could be a promising, safe, and easily available analgesic supplement in women suffering f

N. sativa could be a promising, safe, and easily available analgesic supplement in women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea.

Objectives : We sought to determine the effect of topical application of ( black seed ) oil , on the primary dysmenorrhea intensity .
Methods : We conducted a randomized , double-blind clinical trial on 124 female students , 18-22 years old , living in the dormitories of Sabzevar Universities .
After a primary assessment , participants were randomly divided into two groups .
The first group rubbed two drops ofoil , and the second group rubbed liquid olive oil , as the placebo .
Massage was performed on the fontanel lobe 3 , at night , three days before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about five days after menses ) .
This procedure was repeated for three menstrual cycles .
After three cycles , pain severity was measured by the visual analog scale .
Data analysis was carried out using the Mann-Whitney U test and analysis of covariance ( ANCOVA ) .
Results : This study was conducted on 124 female students .
The mean age of students , mean age of first menarche , body mass index , and pain severity were not significantly different in the two groups ( > 0.050 ) .
No adverse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The results of ANCOVA showed that pain intensity inoil group was significantly decreased compared to that of the placebo group ( 0.6 score ; < 0.050 ) .
Conclusions : .could be a promising , safe , and easily available analgesic supplement in women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea .

Objectives: We sought to determine the effect of topical application of(black seed) oil, on the primary dysmenorrhea intensity.
Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind clinical trial on 124 female students, 18-22 years old, living in the dormitories of Sabzevar Universities. After a primary assessment, participants were randomly divided into two groups. The first group rubbed two drops ofoil, and the second group rubbed liquid olive oil, as the placebo. Massage was performed on the fontanel lobe 3, at night, three days before menstruation, for eight consecutive days (about five days after menses). This procedure was repeated for three menstrual cycles. After three cycles, pain severity was measured by the visual analog scale. Data analysis was carried out using the Mann-Whitney U test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).
Results: This study was conducted on 124 female students. The mean age of students, mean age of first menarche, body mass index, and pain severity were not significantly different in the two groups (>0.050). No adverse effects were observed during the study. The results of ANCOVA showed that pain intensity inoil group was significantly decreased compared to that of the placebo group (0.6 score;<0.050).
Conclusions: .could be a promising, safe, and easily available analgesic supplement in women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Nigella sativa L as a potential phytotherapy for coronavirus disease 2019.

Background : Coronaviruses are responsible for several human diseases , such as the infectious novel coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 ( SARS-CoV-2 ) .is a natural food supplement @ @ @ @ @ that may provide a wealth of documented antiviral compounds .
Objective : To explore the @ @ @ @ @ SARS-CoV-2 targets .
Methods : A literature search for published or preprint in silico studies @ @ @ @ @ electronic databases ( PubMed , Science Direct , Scopus , and Google Scholar ) was @ @ @ @ @ sativa , , and .
Results : At least 8 in silico studies have shown @ @ @ @ @ including nigelledine , α-hederin , hederagenin , thymohydroquinone , and thymoquinone , had high to @ @ @ @ @ and proteins .
These compounds may potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication and .
Conclusions : These @ @ @ @ @ studies proposeas a potential phytotherapy candidate for COVID-19 .
Further preclinical experimental evidence is required @ @ @ @ @ clinical trial .
( .
2020 ; 81 : XXX-XXX ) .

Background: Coronaviruses are responsible for several human diseases, such as the infectious novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).is a natural food supplement with a known safety profile that may provide a wealth of documented antiviral compounds.
Objective: To explore the studies supporting thepotential for hitting SARS-CoV-2 targets.
Methods: A literature search for published or preprint in silico studies between 1990 and 2020 in electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar) was performed for the terms Nigella sativa,, and.
Results: At least 8 in silico studies have shown that some compounds of, including nigelledine,α-hederin, hederagenin, thymohydroquinone, and thymoquinone, had high to moderate affinity with SARS-CoV-2 enzymes and proteins. These compounds may potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication and.
Conclusions: These preliminary data of in silico studies proposeas a potential phytotherapy candidate for COVID-19. Further preclinical experimental evidence is required followed by a Phase I clinical trial. (. 2020; 81:XXX-XXX).


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Thymoquinone and difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) synergistically induce apoptosis of human acute T ly

Thymoquinone and difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) synergistically induce apoptosis of human acute T lymphoblastic leukemia

Thymoquinone ( TQ ) , a natural anticancer agent exerts cytotoxic effects on several tumors by targeting multiple pathways , including apoptosis .
Difluoromethylornithine ( DFMO ) , an irreversible inhibitor of the ornithine decarboxylase ( ODC ) enzyme , has shown promising inhibitory activities in many cancers including leukemia by decreasing the biosynthesis of the intracellular polyamines .
The present study aimed to investigate the combinatorial cytotoxic effects of TQ and DFMO on human acute T lymphoblastic leukemia Jurkat cells and to determine the underlying mechanisms .
Here , we show that the combination of DFMO and TQ significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ synergistic effects on apoptosis when compared to either DFMO or TQ alone .
RNA-sequencing showed that many key epigenetic players including Ubiquitin-like containing PHD and Ring finger 1 ( UHRF1 ) and its 2 partners DNA methyltransferase 1 ( DNMT1 ) and histone deacetylase 1 ( HDAC1 ) were down-regulated in DFMO-treated Jurkat cells .
The combination of DFMO and TQ dramatically decreased the expression of UHRF1 , DNMT1 and HDAC1 genes compared to either DFMO or TQ alone .
UHRF1 knockdown led to a decrease in Jurkat cell viability .
In conclusion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of DFMO and TQ could be a promising new strategy for the treatment of human acute T lymphoblastic leukemia by targeting the epigenetic code .

Thymoquinone (TQ), a natural anticancer agent exerts cytotoxic effects on several tumors by targeting multiple pathways, including apoptosis. Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an irreversible inhibitor of the ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) enzyme, has shown promising inhibitory activities in many cancers including leukemia by decreasing the biosynthesis of the intracellular polyamines. The present study aimed to investigate the combinatorial cytotoxic effects of TQ and DFMO on human acute T lymphoblastic leukemia Jurkat cells and to determine the underlying mechanisms. Here, we show that the combination of DFMO and TQ significantly reduced cell viability and resulted in significant synergistic effects on apoptosis when compared to either DFMO or TQ alone. RNA-sequencing showed that many key epigenetic players including Ubiquitin-like containing PHD and Ring finger 1 (UHRF1) and its 2 partners DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) were down-regulated in DFMO-treated Jurkat cells. The combination of DFMO and TQ dramatically decreased the expression of UHRF1, DNMT1 and HDAC1 genes compared to either DFMO or TQ alone. UHRF1 knockdown led to a decrease in Jurkat cell viability. In conclusion, these results suggest that the combination of DFMO and TQ could be a promising new strategy for the treatment of human acute T lymphoblastic leukemia by targeting the epigenetic code.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Thymoquinone administration ameliorates Alzheimer's disease-like phenotype.

BACKGROUND : Thymoquinone ( TQ ) , a biologically active ingredient of Nigella sativa , has anti-inflammatory , anti-oxidative and neuroprotective properties .
Therefore , it could be a good candidate in the recovery of Alzheimer ` s disease ( AD ) pathology rather than current symptomatic reliefs .
PURPOSE : In the present study , we examined the molecular healing effects of TQ in amyloid beta 1-42 ( Aβ ) peptide-infused AD rat hippocampus .
STUDY DESIGN : A micro-osmotic pump containing aggregated Aβwas cannulated into the hippocampus of adult female rats .
After two weeks infusion , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 mg/kg ) was determined according to the HPLC results of cerebrospinal fluid and TQ was given to rats intragastrically for 15 days .
METHODS : The memory performance of rats was determined by Morris water maze test .
Afterwards , the acetylcholinesterase ( AChE ) level were measured by ELISA .
Histopathological examinations of hippocampal tissue were performed for cell survival by Nissl staining , for detection of amyloid plaque deposits by Congo red staining and for determination of degenerating neurons by Fluoro Jade C staining .
MicroRNA/mRNA levels and protein expressions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction and Western Blotting , respectively .
RESULTS : Administration of TQ enhanced the memory performance of Aβinfused rats and it also ameliorated the neuronal loss in the cornu ammonis ( CA1 ) , but not in the dentate gyrus ( DG ) .
In addition , TQ treatment decreased the fibril deposition whose accumulation was significantly higher in the Aβ-infused animals compared to that of the control group .
The expression profiles of mir29c and Bax which significantly upregulated in the Aβ-infused animals were attenuated by TQ .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ expressions of Aβ , phosphorylated-tau , and BACE-1 proteins .
There was no significant therapeutic effect of TQ on the AKT/GSK3β or MAPK signaling pathways which were affected due to Aβinfusion .
CONCLUSION : TQ has the capacity to recover the neuropathology by removing Aβ plaques and by restoring neuron viability .
All might have established the molecular basement of the consolidation in the memory observed by means of TQ treatment .

BACKGROUND: Thymoquinone (TQ), a biologically active ingredient of Nigella sativa, has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and neuroprotective properties. Therefore, it could be a good candidate in the recovery of Alzheimer`s disease (AD) pathology rather than current symptomatic reliefs.
PURPOSE: In the present study, we examined the molecular healing effects of TQ in amyloid beta 1-42 (Aβ) peptide-infused AD rat hippocampus.
STUDY DESIGN: A micro-osmotic pump containing aggregated Aβwas cannulated into the hippocampus of adult female rats. After two weeks infusion, the dose of TQ (10 mg/kg or 20 mg/kg) was determined according to the HPLC results of cerebrospinal fluid and TQ was given to rats intragastrically for 15 days.
METHODS: The memory performance of rats was determined by Morris water maze test. Afterwards, the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) level were measured by ELISA. Histopathological examinations of hippocampal tissue were performed for cell survival by Nissl staining, for detection of amyloid plaque deposits by Congo red staining and for determination of degenerating neurons by Fluoro Jade C staining. MicroRNA/mRNA levels and protein expressions of AD-related genes and proteins were analyzed by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction and Western Blotting, respectively.
RESULTS: Administration of TQ enhanced the memory performance of Aβinfused rats and it also ameliorated the neuronal loss in the cornu ammonis (CA1), but not in the dentate gyrus (DG). In addition, TQ treatment decreased the fibril deposition whose accumulation was significantly higher in the Aβ-infused animals compared to that of the control group. The expression profiles of mir29c and Bax which significantly upregulated in the Aβ-infused animals were attenuated by TQ. Furthermore, administration of TQ decreased the expressions of Aβ, phosphorylated-tau, and BACE-1 proteins. There was no significant therapeutic effect of TQ on the AKT/GSK3β or MAPK signaling pathways which were affected due to Aβinfusion.
CONCLUSION: TQ has the capacity to recover the neuropathology by removing Aβ plaques and by restoring neuron viability. All might have established the molecular basement of the consolidation in the memory observed by means of TQ treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--The effects of melatonin and thymoquinone on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

OBJECTIVES : This study aims to investigate the protective effects of thymoquinone and melatonin on the heart against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats .
BACKGROUND : Melatonin and thymoquinone may play an important role in cardiotoxicity .
METHODS : The subjects were divided into four groups : Control ( physiological serum on 5th day ) , Doxorubicin ( DXR ) , Doxorubicin+Melatonin ( DXR+MEL , 10 mg/kg melatonin , intraperitoneally ) , and Doxorubicin+Thymoquinone ( DXR+TQ , 50 mg/kg thymoquinone , orally ) .
On the 5th day of the experiment , all groups were injected with 45 mg/kg DXR into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day of the experiment , ECG recordings were performed under anaesthesia .
RESULTS : Thymoquinone reduced the PR , QRS and QTc intervals , which were increased by DXR , while melatonin only reduced the QTc interval .
Melatonin had a protective effect against the histopathological changes induced by DXR , while TQ did not demonstrate such an effect .
DXR increased CK-MB , IL-6 , MDA , IL-1 , IL-18 levels and decreased SOD in the cardiac tissue .
MEL reduced the levels of CK-MB , MDA , NO , SOD , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , TQ only reduced CK-MB , IL-1 and IL-18 .
CONCLUSION : Our study showed that DXR induces cardiac injury and that melatonin improves biochemical parameters and offers histological protection ; while thymoquinone improves ECG parameters and causes partial recovery of biochemical parameters ( Tab .
4 , Fig .
2 , Ref .
41 ) .

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the protective effects of thymoquinone and melatonin on the heart against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.
BACKGROUND: Melatonin and thymoquinone may play an important role in cardiotoxicity.
METHODS: The subjects were divided into four groups: Control (physiological serum on 5th day), Doxorubicin (DXR), Doxorubicin+Melatonin (DXR+MEL, 10 mg/kg melatonin, intraperitoneally), and Doxorubicin+Thymoquinone (DXR+TQ, 50 mg/kg thymoquinone, orally). On the 5th day of the experiment, all groups were injected with 45 mg/kg DXR into the tail vein. On the 8th day of the experiment, ECG recordings were performed under anaesthesia.
RESULTS: Thymoquinone reduced the PR, QRS and QTc intervals, which were increased by DXR, while melatonin only reduced the QTc interval. Melatonin had a protective effect against the histopathological changes induced by DXR, while TQ did not demonstrate such an effect. DXR increased CK-MB, IL-6, MDA, IL-1, IL-18 levels and decreased SOD in the cardiac tissue. MEL reduced the levels of CK-MB, MDA, NO, SOD, IL-1, IL-6, IL-18. Meanwhile, TQ only reduced CK-MB, IL-1 and IL-18.
CONCLUSION: Our study showed that DXR induces cardiac injury and that melatonin improves biochemical parameters and offers histological protection; while thymoquinone improves ECG parameters and causes partial recovery of biochemical parameters (Tab. 4, Fig. 2, Ref. 41).


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Potential protective roles of phytochemicals on glutamate-induced neurotoxicity.

Glutamate , as an essential neurotransmitter , has been thought to have different roles in the central nervous system ( @ @ @ @ @ regeneration , synaptogenesis , and neurogenesis .
Excessive glutamate causes an up-regulation of the multiple @ @ @ @ @ kinase/protein kinase B ( PI3K/Akt ) , Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin ( mTOR ) protein @ @ @ @ @ MAPK ) /extracellular signal-regulated kinase ( ERK ) 1/2 , and autophagy that are involved @ @ @ @ @ There are numerous findings on curcumin , astaxanthin , thymoquinone , and berberine , as @ @ @ @ @ outstanding effects in cell signaling far beyond their anti-oxidant activity , considering as a potential @ @ @ @ @ .
Herein , we address the role of glutamate as a potential target in neurodegenerative @ @ @ @ @ effects of certain phytochemicals on glutamate-induced neurotoxicity .

Glutamate, as an essential neurotransmitter, has been thought to have different roles in the central nervous system (CNS), including nerve regeneration, synaptogenesis, and neurogenesis. Excessive glutamate causes an up-regulation of the multiple signaling pathways, including phosphoinositide-3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) protein, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, and autophagy that are involved in neurodegenerative diseases pathophysiology. There are numerous findings on curcumin, astaxanthin, thymoquinone, and berberine, as natural products, which have outstanding effects in cell signaling far beyond their anti-oxidant activity, considering as a potential therapeutic target for glutamate excitotoxicity. Herein, we address the role of glutamate as a potential target in neurodegenerative diseases and discuss the protective effects of certain phytochemicals on glutamate-induced neurotoxicity.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--Astaxanthin suppresses lipopolysaccharide‑induced myocardial injury.

Cardiac dysfunction is a significant manifestation of sepsis and it is associated with the prognosis of the disease .
Astaxanthin ( ATX ) has been discovered to serve a variety of pharmacological effects , including anti‑inflammatory , antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties .
The present study aimed to investigate the role and mechanisms of ATX in sepsis‑induced myocardial injury .
Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups ( 15 mice per group ) : Control group , lipopolysaccharide ( LPS ) group and LPS + ATX group .
The cardiac dysfunction model was induced through an intraperitoneal injection of LPS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 mg/kg ) was administered to the LPS + ATX group by intraperitoneal injection 30 min following the administration of LPS .
All animals were sacrificed after 24 h. Inﬂammatory cytokine levels in the serum were detected using ELISAs , and cardiac B‑type natriuretic peptide ( BNP ) levels were analyzed using western blot analysis and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR .
Furthermore , the extent of myocardial injury was evaluated using pathological analysis , and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was analyzed using a TUNEL assay , in addition to determining the expression levels of Bcl‑2 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involved in the mitogen activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were also analyzed using western blot analysis .
ATX signiﬁcantly suppressed the LPS‑induced increased production of TNF‑α and IL‑6 and suppressed the protein expression levels of BNP , Bax and Bcl‑2 to normal levels .
ATX also prevented the histopathological changes to the myocardial tissue and reduced the extent of necrosis .
Furthermore , the treatment with ATX suppressed the LPS‑activated MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling .
ATX additionally exerted a protective effect on cardiac dysfunction caused by sepsis by @ @ @ @ @ @

Cardiac dysfunction is a significant manifestation of sepsis and it is associated with the prognosis of the disease. Astaxanthin (ATX) has been discovered to serve a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties. The present study aimed to investigate the role and mechanisms of ATX in sepsis‑induced myocardial injury. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups (15 mice per group): Control group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group and LPS + ATX group. The cardiac dysfunction model was induced through an intraperitoneal injection of LPS (10 mg/kg) and ATX (40 mg/kg) was administered to the LPS + ATX group by intraperitoneal injection 30 min following the administration of LPS. All animals were sacrificed after 24 h. Inﬂammatory cytokine levels in the serum were detected using ELISAs, and cardiac B‑type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were analyzed using western blot analysis and reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR. Furthermore, the extent of myocardial injury was evaluated using pathological analysis, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was analyzed using a TUNEL assay, in addition to determining the expression levels of Bcl‑2 and Bax. The expression levels of proteins involved in the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were also analyzed using western blot analysis. ATX signiﬁcantly suppressed the LPS‑induced increased production of TNF‑α and IL‑6 and suppressed the protein expression levels of BNP, Bax and Bcl‑2 to normal levels. ATX also prevented the histopathological changes to the myocardial tissue and reduced the extent of necrosis. Furthermore, the treatment with ATX suppressed the LPS‑activated MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling. ATX additionally exerted a protective effect on cardiac dysfunction caused by sepsis by inhibiting MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-26--The New Global Digital Prison: The Data-ification and Financialization of All of Life - Alison McDow

The New Global Digital Prison: The Data-ification and Financialization of All of Life - Alison McDowell

Original Video Title : `` The Data Harvesting Of Children From Cradle To Grave - Alison McDowell '' Alison McDowell - activist and independent researcher from Philadelphia has being extensively bringing to the surface for years now the harsh reality of what the likes of the world economic forum , agenda 21 and the fourth industrial revolution has mapped out for the global population .
In this episode Alison covers a great deal on the future of education and how children are being turned into data commodities even as early as being in the womb onwards .
The block chain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ machine learning , social impact bond and impact markets for behavioural engineering .
Alison also talks about the Vatican banks ties to all this , Bill Gates , Goldman Sachs , Walt Disney being the main funder to Unicef 's innovation fund that is drones , AI , VR and Blockchain too name but a few .
The Covid trigger , Id2020 , silicon valley and the datafication of all life under a one world surveillance state .
Read her recent article featured on Greenmedinfo.com : The Brothers Grim : Bill and Mike'as @ @

Original Video Title: "The Data Harvesting Of Children From Cradle To Grave - Alison McDowell"
Alison McDowell - activist and independent researcher from Philadelphia has being extensively bringing to the surface for years now the harsh reality of what the likes of the world economic forum, agenda 21 and the fourth industrial revolution has mapped out for the global population. In this episode Alison covers a great deal on the future of education and how children are being turned into data commodities even as early as being in the womb onwards. The block chain smart contracts, block chain identity, machine learning, social impact bond and impact markets for behavioural engineering. Alison also talks about the Vatican banks ties to all this, Bill Gates, Goldman Sachs, Walt Disney being the main funder to Unicef's innovation fund that is drones, AI, VR and Blockchain too name but a few. The Covid trigger, Id2020, silicon valley and the datafication of all life under a one world surveillance state.
Source: Mindwars Youtube Channel
Learn more at Alison's website: www.Wrenchinthegears.com
Read her recent article featured on Greenmedinfo.com: The Brothers Grim: Bill and Mike'as Pandemic Panopticon


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Xanthohumol targets the ERK1/2‑Fra1 signaling axis to reduce cyclin D1 expression and inhibit non‑sm

Xanthohumol targets the ERK1/2‑Fra1 signaling axis to reduce cyclin D1 expression and inhibit non‑small cell lung cancer.

High expression of cyclin D1 has a crucial role in the maintenance of unlimited cell growth in human cancer cells @ @ @ @ @ that cyclin D1 was overexpressed in human non‑small cell lung cancer ( NSCLC ) tumor @ @ @ @ @ Knockout of cyclin D1 suppressed NSCLC cell growth , colony formation and in vivo tumor @ @ @ @ @ the natural product xanthohumol ( Xanth ) inhibited NSCLC cells via the downregulation of cyclin @ @ @ @ @ study revealed that Xanth suppressed ERK1/2 signaling and reduced the protein levels of FOS‑related antigen @ @ @ @ @ which eventually inhibited the transcriptional activity of activator protein‑1 and decreased the mRNA level of @ @ @ @ @ suppression of ERK1/2 impaired Fra1 phosphorylationand enhanced Xanth‑induced Fra1 ubiquitination and degradation .
In addition @ @ @ @ @ Xanth‑induced Fra1 degradation .
Finally , the in vivo anti‑tumor effect of Xanth was validated @ @ @ @ @ .
In summary , the present results indicated that targeting ERK1/2‑Fra1‑cyclin D1 signaling is a @ @ @ @ @ treatment .

High expression of cyclin D1 has a crucial role in the maintenance of unlimited cell growth in human cancer cells. The present study indicated that cyclin D1 was overexpressed in human non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumor tissues and cell lines. Knockout of cyclin D1 suppressed NSCLC cell growth, colony formation and in vivo tumor growth. Of note, the natural product xanthohumol (Xanth) inhibited NSCLC cells via the downregulation of cyclin D1. A further mechanistic study revealed that Xanth suppressed ERK1/2 signaling and reduced the protein levels of FOS‑related antigen 1 (Fra1), which eventually inhibited the transcriptional activity of activator protein‑1 and decreased the mRNA level of cyclin D1. Furthermore, suppression of ERK1/2 impaired Fra1 phosphorylationand enhanced Xanth‑induced Fra1 ubiquitination and degradation. In addition, the S265D mutation compromised Xanth‑induced Fra1 degradation. Finally, the in vivo anti‑tumor effect of Xanth was validated in a xenograft mouse model. In summary, the present results indicated that targeting ERK1/2‑Fra1‑cyclin D1 signaling is a promising anti‑tumor strategy for NSCLC treatment.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Citrus flavonoids as promising phytochemicals targeting diabetes and related complications.

The consumption of plant-based food is important for health promotion , especially concerning the prevention and management of chronic diseases .
Flavonoids are the main bioactive compounds in citrus fruits , with multiple beneficial effects , especially antidiabetic effects .
We systematically review the potential antidiabetic action and molecular mechanisms of citrus flavonoids based on in vitro and in vivo studies .
A search of the PubMed , EMBASE , Scopus , and Web of Science Core Collection databases for articles published since 2010 was carried out using the keywords citrus , flavonoid , and diabetes .
All articles identified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using a standardized form .
The search identified 38 articles , which reported that 19 citrus flavonoids , including 8-prenylnaringenin , cosmosiin , didymin , diosmin , hesperetin , hesperidin , isosiennsetin , naringenin , naringin , neohesperidin , nobiletin , poncirin , quercetin , rhoifolin , rutin , sineesytin , sudachitin , tangeretin , and xanthohumol , have antidiabetic potential .
These flavonoids regulated biomarkers of glycemic control , lipid profiles , renal function , hepatic enzymes , and antioxidant enzymes , and modulated signaling pathways related to glucose uptake and insulin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of diabetes and its related complications .
Citrus flavonoids , therefore , are promising antidiabetic candidates , while their antidiabetic effects remain to be verified in forthcoming human studies .

The consumption of plant-based food is important for health promotion, especially concerning the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Flavonoids are the main bioactive compounds in citrus fruits, with multiple beneficial effects, especially antidiabetic effects. We systematically review the potential antidiabetic action and molecular mechanisms of citrus flavonoids based on in vitro and in vivo studies. A search of the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection databases for articles published since 2010 was carried out using the keywords citrus, flavonoid, and diabetes. All articles identified were analyzed, and data were extracted using a standardized form. The search identified 38 articles, which reported that 19 citrus flavonoids, including 8-prenylnaringenin, cosmosiin, didymin, diosmin, hesperetin, hesperidin, isosiennsetin, naringenin, naringin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, poncirin, quercetin, rhoifolin, rutin, sineesytin, sudachitin, tangeretin, and xanthohumol, have antidiabetic potential. These flavonoids regulated biomarkers of glycemic control, lipid profiles, renal function, hepatic enzymes, and antioxidant enzymes, and modulated signaling pathways related to glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity that are involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its related complications. Citrus flavonoids, therefore, are promising antidiabetic candidates, while their antidiabetic effects remain to be verified in forthcoming human studies.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Meta-analysis of controlled trials testing horticultural therapy for the improvement of cognitive fu

Meta-analysis of controlled trials testing horticultural therapy for the improvement of cognitive function.

Improving cognitive function is one of the most challenging global issues in cognitive impairment population .
Horticultural therapy involves the @ @ @ @ @ who establishes a treatment plan for horticultural activities that aim to achieve cognitive changes , @ @ @ @ @ of life .
However , more convincing evidence demonstrating the effect of horticultural therapy on @ @ @ @ @ The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of controlled trials testing the @ @ @ @ @ cognitive function and the findings indicate that horticultural therapy programs significantly improved cognitive function .
@ @ @ @ @ horticultural therapy program was large .
Findings of this meta-analysis have important implications for practice @ @ @ @ @ systems should consider horticultural therapy as an important intervention for improving patients ' cognitive function @ @ @ @ @ consider horticultural therapy as an important tool to prevent the decline of cognitive function in @ @ @ @

Improving cognitive function is one of the most challenging global issues in cognitive impairment population. Horticultural therapy involves the expertise of a horticultural therapist who establishes a treatment plan for horticultural activities that aim to achieve cognitive changes, and thereby improve health-related quality of life. However, more convincing evidence demonstrating the effect of horticultural therapy on cognitive function is essential. The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of controlled trials testing the effect of horticultural therapy on cognitive function and the findings indicate that horticultural therapy programs significantly improved cognitive function. The effect size of the horticultural therapy program was large. Findings of this meta-analysis have important implications for practice and policies. Contemporary healthcare systems should consider horticultural therapy as an important intervention for improving patients' cognitive function. Governments and policy-makers should consider horticultural therapy as an important tool to prevent the decline of cognitive function in cognitive impairment population.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Identification of novel phyto-chemicals from Ocimum basilicum for the treatment of Parkinson's disea

Identification of novel phyto-chemicals from Ocimum basilicum for the treatment of Parkinson's disease using in silico approach.

BACKGROUND : Parkinson 's disease is characterized by decreased level of dopaminergic neurotransmitters and this decrease is due to the degradation of dopamine by protein Monoamine Oxidase B ( MAO-B ) .
In order to treat Parkinson 's disease , MAO-B should be inhibited .
OBJECTIVE : To find out the novel phytochemicals from plant Ocimum basilicum that can inhibit MAO-B by using the in silico methods .
METHODS : The data of chemical constituents from plant Ocimum basilicum was collected and inhibitory activity of these phytochemicals was then predicted by using the Structure-Based ( SB ) and Ligand-Based Virtual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ docking , one of the common Structure-Based Virtual Screening method , has been used during this search .
Traditionally , molecular docking is used to predict the orientation and binding affinity of the ligand within the active site of the protein .
Molegro Virtual Docker ( MVD ) software has been used for this purpose .
On the other hand , Random Forest Model , one of the LBVS method , has also been used to predict the activity of these chemical constituents of Ocimum basilicum against the MAO-B .
RESULTS : During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compounds found in Ocimum basilicum were docked within the active site of MAO-B ( PDB code : 4A79 ) out of which , 57 compounds successfully formed the hydrogen bond with tyr 435 , a crucial amino acid for the biological activity of the enzyme .
Rutin ( -182.976 Kcal/mol ) , Luteolin ( -163.171 Kcal/mol ) , Eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside ( - 160.13 Kcal/mol ) , Rosmarinic acid ( -133.484 Kcal/mol ) and Isoquercitrin ( -131.493 Kcal/mol ) are among the top hits with the highest MolDock score along with hydrogen interaction with tyr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ten compounds out of 108 chemical constituent of Ocimum basilicum were predicted to be active , Apigenin ( 1.0 ) , Eriodictyol ( 1.0 ) , Orientin ( 0.876 ) , Kaempferol ( 0.8536 ) , Luteolin ( 0.813953 ) and Rosmarinic-Acid ( 0.7738095 ) are predicted to be most active with the highest RF score .
CONCLUSION : The comparison of the two screening methods show that the ten compounds that were predicted to be active by the RF model , are also found in top hits of docking studies with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during this study are predicted to be the inhibitor of MAO-B , thus , could be used further for the development of drugs for the treatment of Parkinson 's disease ( PD ) .

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease is characterized by decreased level of dopaminergic neurotransmitters and this decrease is due to the degradation of dopamine by protein Monoamine Oxidase B (MAO-B). In order to treat Parkinson's disease, MAO-B should be inhibited.
OBJECTIVE: To find out the novel phytochemicals from plant Ocimum basilicum that can inhibit MAO-B by using the in silico methods.
METHODS: The data of chemical constituents from plant Ocimum basilicum was collected and inhibitory activity of these phytochemicals was then predicted by using the Structure-Based (SB) and Ligand-Based Virtual Screening (LBVS) methods. Molecular docking, one of the common Structure-Based Virtual Screening method, has been used during this search. Traditionally, molecular docking is used to predict the orientation and binding affinity of the ligand within the active site of the protein. Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD) software has been used for this purpose. On the other hand, Random Forest Model, one of the LBVS method, has also been used to predict the activity of these chemical constituents of Ocimum basilicum against the MAO-B.
RESULTS: During the docking studies, all the 108 compounds found in Ocimum basilicum were docked within the active site of MAO-B (PDB code: 4A79) out of which, 57 compounds successfully formed the hydrogen bond with tyr 435, a crucial amino acid for the biological activity of the enzyme. Rutin (-182.976 Kcal/mol), Luteolin (-163.171 Kcal/mol), Eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside (- 160.13 Kcal/mol), Rosmarinic acid (-133.484 Kcal/mol) and Isoquercitrin (-131.493 Kcal/mol) are among the top hits with the highest MolDock score along with hydrogen interaction with tyr 435. Using the RF model, ten compounds out of 108 chemical constituent of Ocimum basilicum were predicted to be active, Apigenin (1.0), Eriodictyol (1.0), Orientin (0.876), Kaempferol (0.8536), Luteolin (0.813953) and Rosmarinic-Acid (0.7738095) are predicted to be most active with the highest RF score.
CONCLUSION: The comparison of the two screening methods show that the ten compounds that were predicted to be active by the RF model, are also found in top hits of docking studies with the highest score. The top hits obtained during this study are predicted to be the inhibitor of MAO-B, thus, could be used further for the development of drugs for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD).


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Considering the effect of Rosa damascen essential oil on oxidative stress and COX-2 gene expression

Considering the effect of Rosa damascen essential oil on oxidative stress and COX-2 gene expression in the liver of septic rats.

Objectives : Sepsis is a clinical illness with a high rate of mortality all over the world .
Oxidative stress is considered the main phenomenon that occurs in sepsis.Mill .
is an ancient herbal plant with high pharmacological activities .
Materials and Methods : Cecal ligation and puncture ( CLP ) as a standard model was used to induce sepsis in rats .
Male adult rats were randomly divided into 5 groups .
Different doses ofessential oil ( 50 and 100 mg/kg.bw ) were gavaged orally for 14 days and on day 15 CLP was performed .
After 24 h @ @ @ @ @ @ @ removed in order to measure oxidative stress [ myeloperoxidase ( MPO ) , malondialdehyde ( MDA ) , glutathione ( GSH ) , glutathione-S-transferase , and ferric reducing ability of plasma ( FRAP ) ] and biochemical parameters [ alkaline phosphatase ( ALP ) , aspartate transaminase ( AST ) , alanine transaminase ( ALT ) , and bilirubin ] together with plasma prostaglandin E2 ( PGE ) and COX-expression .
Results : The essential oil was capable of modulating all of the oxidative stress , antioxidant , and anti-inflammatory parameters induced by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and MDA levels as well as increases in AST and ALT concentrations concomitant with PGEand COX-2 increments .
The antioxidant defense system such as GSH and FRAP was also increased in the essential oil treated groups .
Conclusion : Our results showed that the essential oil has antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities through reducing the oxidative injury in sepsis caused by CLP .

Objectives: Sepsis is a clinical illness with a high rate of mortality all over the world. Oxidative stress is considered the main phenomenon that occurs in sepsis.Mill. is an ancient herbal plant with high pharmacological activities.
Materials and Methods: Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) as a standard model was used to induce sepsis in rats. Male adult rats were randomly divided into 5 groups. Different doses ofessential oil (50 and 100 mg/kg.bw) were gavaged orally for 14 days and on day 15 CLP was performed. After 24 h, blood samples and liver tissues were removed in order to measure oxidative stress [myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase, and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP)] and biochemical parameters [alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and bilirubin] together with plasma prostaglandin E2 (PGE) and COX-expression.
Results: The essential oil was capable of modulating all of the oxidative stress, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory parameters induced by CLP as characterized by elevations in MPO and MDA levels as well as increases in AST and ALT concentrations concomitant with PGEand COX-2 increments. The antioxidant defense system such as GSH and FRAP was also increased in the essential oil treated groups.
Conclusion: Our results showed that the essential oil has antioxidative and hepatoprotective activities through reducing the oxidative injury in sepsis caused by CLP.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Anti-inflammatory effects of deuterium-depleted water plus Rosa damascena essential oil via cyclooxy

Anti-inflammatory effects of deuterium-depleted water plus Rosa damascena essential oil via cyclooxygenase-2 pathway.

Objectives : Natural medicine has been proposed for treating sepsis worldwide .
Therefore , in this study , the effect of deuterium-depleted water ( DDW ) alone and adjuvant withMill .
( RD ) essential oils was considered through the evaluation of oxidative stress-antioxidant parameters and the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2 ) inflammatory gene in liver damage caused by sepsis .
Materials and Methods : The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups : 1 ) laparotomy group ; 2 ) cecal ligation and puncture ( CLP ) group ; 3 ) DDW ( 15 ppm and 30 ppm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 15 ppm and 30 ppm doses ) plus RD essential oil ( 100 mg/kg.bw ) ; 5 ) indomethacin ( 2 mg/kg.bw ) as a positive control .
The treatments were daily administrated for 2 weeks and the CLP model was created on the day 15 .
Then , the animals were killed and their liver tissue was separated for histopathologic and biochemical assessment .
Results : Our results demonstrated that the treatment of animals with DDW and DDW plus RD essential oil was effective due to the regulation of the oxidative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( GSH ) , GSH s-transferases , myeloperoxidase , ferric reducing ability of plasma and inflammatory parameters such as prostaglandin E2 and COX-2 .
Pathological studies also showed that sepsis led to the liver tissue injuries , which can be reduced by treatments .
Conclusion : Sepsis caused oxidative stress in the liver tissue , but the administration of DDW and DDW plus RD essential oil can be useful to prevent and heal these injuries .

Objectives: Natural medicine has been proposed for treating sepsis worldwide. Therefore, in this study, the effect of deuterium-depleted water (DDW) alone and adjuvant withMill. (RD) essential oils was considered through the evaluation of oxidative stress-antioxidant parameters and the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inflammatory gene in liver damage caused by sepsis.
Materials and Methods: The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: 1) laparotomy group; 2) cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) group; 3) DDW (15 ppm and 30 ppm doses) group; 4) DDW (15 ppm and 30 ppm doses) plus RD essential oil (100 mg/kg.bw); 5) indomethacin (2 mg/kg.bw) as a positive control. The treatments were daily administrated for 2 weeks and the CLP model was created on the day 15. Then, the animals were killed and their liver tissue was separated for histopathologic and biochemical assessment.
Results: Our results demonstrated that the treatment of animals with DDW and DDW plus RD essential oil was effective due to the regulation of the oxidative stress-antioxidant parameters including lipid peroxidation, glutathione (GSH), GSH s-transferases, myeloperoxidase, ferric reducing ability of plasma and inflammatory parameters such as prostaglandin E2 and COX-2. Pathological studies also showed that sepsis led to the liver tissue injuries, which can be reduced by treatments.
Conclusion: Sepsis caused oxidative stress in the liver tissue, but the administration of DDW and DDW plus RD essential oil can be useful to prevent and heal these injuries.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--These results highlight the benefits of R. damascena extract to combat Parkinson's disease at the po

These results highlight the benefits of R. damascena extract to combat Parkinson's disease at the population level.

There is an intense search for natural compounds that can inhibit the oligomerization and fibrillation ofα-synuclein ( α-Syn ) , @ @ @ @ @ the development of Parkinson 's disease ( PD ) .is a medicinal herb widely used @ @ @ @ @ ceremonies , and perfumes .
The herb is known to contain many different polyphenols .
@ @ @ @ @ ofα-Syn fibrillation inhibitors inextract .
Different HPLC fractions of the extract were assessed inα-Syn fibrillation @ @ @ @ @ most active fractions led to the formation of more α-Syn oligomers but with less toxicity @ @ @ @ @ to MTT and LDH assays .
LC-MS analysis identified gallic acid , kaempferol 3-glucoside , @ @ @ @ @ subsequently shown to be strong α-Syn fibrillation inhibitors .
Our results highlight the benefits ofextract @ @ @ @ @ population level .

There is an intense search for natural compounds that can inhibit the oligomerization and fibrillation ofα-synuclein (α-Syn), whose aggregation is key to the development of Parkinson's disease (PD).is a medicinal herb widely used in Middle Eastern food, ceremonies, and perfumes. The herb is known to contain many different polyphenols. Here we investigated the existence ofα-Syn fibrillation inhibitors inextract. Different HPLC fractions of the extract were assessed inα-Syn fibrillation and toxicity assays. The most active fractions led to the formation of more α-Syn oligomers but with less toxicity to SH-SY5Y cells, according to MTT and LDH assays. LC-MS analysis identified gallic acid, kaempferol 3-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-β-rutinoside, and quercetin whichwere subsequently shown to be strong α-Syn fibrillation inhibitors. Our results highlight the benefits ofextract to combat PD at the population level.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Understanding COVID-19 in the light of epidemic disease described in Unani medicine.

Unani system of medicine is based on the humoral theory postulated by Hippocrates , according to him the state of body health and disease are regulated by qualitative and quantitative equilibrium of four humours .
Amraz-e-Waba is an umbrella term which is used in Unani medicine for all types of epidemics ( smallpox , measles , plague , Hameer Saifi , influenza , Nipaha , Ebola , Zika , and 2019 novel coronavirus , etc . )
mostly fatal in nature .
The coronavirus disease 2019 ( COVID-19 ) is a severe acute respiratory infection , and the pathogenesis and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( influenza ) and Zatul Riya ( pneumonia ) which were well described many years ago in Unani text such as high-grade fever , headache , nausea and vomiting , running nose , dry cough , respiratory distress , alternate and small pulse , asthenia , foul smell from breath , insomnia , frothy stool , syncope , coldness in both upper and lower extremities , etc .
The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a global emergency pandemic .
Unani scholars like Hippocrates ( 370-460 BC ) , Galen ( 130-200 AD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and Avicenna ( 980-1037 AD ) had described four etiological factors for Amraz-e-Waba viz.
, change in quality of air , water , Earth , and celestial bodies , accordingly mentioned various preventive measures to be adopted during epidemics such as restriction of movement , isolation or '' quarantena '' , and fumigation with loban ( Styrax benzoin W. G. Craib ex Hartwich . )
, sandalwood ( Santalum album L. ) , Zafran ( Crocus sativus L. ) , myrtle ( Myrtus communis L. ) , and roses ( Rosa damascena @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( sirka ) and antidotes ( Tiryaq ) as prophylaxis , and avoiding consumption of milk , oil , sweet , meat , and alcohol .
This review focuses and elaborates on the concept , prevention , and probable management of COVID-19 in the light of Amraz-e-Waba .

Unani system of medicine is based on the humoral theory postulated by Hippocrates, according to him the state of body health and disease are regulated by qualitative and quantitative equilibrium of four humours. Amraz-e-Waba is an umbrella term which is used in Unani medicine for all types of epidemics (smallpox, measles, plague, Hameer Saifi, influenza, Nipaha, Ebola, Zika, and 2019 novel coronavirus, etc.) mostly fatal in nature. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe acute respiratory infection, and the pathogenesis and clinical features resemble with those of Nazla-e-Wabaiya (influenza) and Zatul Riya (pneumonia) which were well described many years ago in Unani text such as high-grade fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, running nose, dry cough, respiratory distress, alternate and small pulse, asthenia, foul smell from breath, insomnia, frothy stool, syncope, coldness in both upper and lower extremities, etc. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a global emergency pandemic. Unani scholars like Hippocrates (370-460 BC), Galen (130-200 AD), Rhazes (865-925 AD), and Avicenna (980-1037 AD) had described four etiological factors for Amraz-e-Waba viz., change in quality of air, water, Earth, and celestial bodies, accordingly mentioned various preventive measures to be adopted during epidemics such as restriction of movement, isolation or"quarantena", and fumigation with loban (Styrax benzoin W. G. Craib ex Hartwich.), sandalwood (Santalum album L.), Zafran (Crocus sativus L.), myrtle (Myrtus communis L.), and roses (Rosa damascena Mill.) and use of vinegar (sirka) and antidotes (Tiryaq) as prophylaxis, and avoiding consumption of milk, oil, sweet, meat, and alcohol. This review focuses and elaborates on the concept, prevention, and probable management of COVID-19 in the light of Amraz-e-Waba.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Effect of a novel herbal vaginal suppository containing myrtle and oak gall in the treatment of vagi

Effect of a novel herbal vaginal suppository containing myrtle and oak gall in the treatment of vaginitis.

BACKGROUND : Uncomplicated infections such as candidiasis , bacterial vaginosis ( BV ) , or trichomoniasis are easy to diagnose and treat .
However , about 8 % of patients will have a more complicated course with failure to respond to treatment or rapid recurrence of symptoms .
There are many suggestions in Traditional Persian Medicine like myrtle ( Myrtus communis L. ) and oak gall ( Quercus infectoria G.Olivier ) for treatment of vaginitis .
OBJECTIVES : A clinical trial was designed to assess the efficacy of a novel herbal suppository , containing myrtle and oak gall ( MOGS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : In a parallel randomized clinical trial , 120 women with vaginitis were randomly assigned to MOGS , metronidazole , or placebo .
Formulation was simulated from traditional Persian manuscripts and MGOS was prepared after pharmaceutical optimization processing as well as quantification of gallic acid by HPLC .
The study was double-blind for MOGS and placebo and single-blind for metronidazole group .
RESULTS : MOGS effectively improved vaginal discharge ( p = 0.024 for BV and 0.018 for trichomoniasis ) and pH ( compared to placebo ( p = 0.013 ) and metronidazole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Both MOGS and metronidazole could reverse whiff test .
Metronidazole was the best medication for making Nugent score negative ( p = 0.005 ) as well as the best therapy according to laboratory findings to treat BV in comparison with placebo ( p = 0.021 ) .
While for trichomoniasis , MOGS could improve the disease more successfully ( p = 0.001 ) .
Both MOGS and metronidazole treated mixed vaginitis ( p = 0.002 ) .
CONCLUSION : MOGS would be a chance for developing new treatment for trichomoniasis .

BACKGROUND: Uncomplicated infections such as candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), or trichomoniasis are easy to diagnose and treat. However, about 8% of patients will have a more complicated course with failure to respond to treatment or rapid recurrence of symptoms. There are many suggestions in Traditional Persian Medicine like myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) and oak gall (Quercus infectoria G.Olivier) for treatment of vaginitis.
OBJECTIVES: A clinical trial was designed to assess the efficacy of a novel herbal suppository, containing myrtle and oak gall (MOGS) in treatment of vaginitis.
METHODS: In a parallel randomized clinical trial, 120 women with vaginitis were randomly assigned to MOGS, metronidazole, or placebo. Formulation was simulated from traditional Persian manuscripts and MGOS was prepared after pharmaceutical optimization processing as well as quantification of gallic acid by HPLC. The study was double-blind for MOGS and placebo and single-blind for metronidazole group.
RESULTS: MOGS effectively improved vaginal discharge (p = 0.024 for BV and 0.018 for trichomoniasis) and pH (compared to placebo (p = 0.013) and metronidazole (p = 0.001)). Both MOGS and metronidazole could reverse whiff test. Metronidazole was the best medication for making Nugent score negative (p = 0.005) as well as the best therapy according to laboratory findings to treat BV in comparison with placebo (p = 0.021). While for trichomoniasis, MOGS could improve the disease more successfully (p = 0.001). Both MOGS and metronidazole treated mixed vaginitis (p = 0.002).
CONCLUSION: MOGS would be a chance for developing new treatment for trichomoniasis.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Oak Gall could be recommended for women in reproductive age who are uncomfortable with the potential

OBJECTIVE : This study was aimed to compare the effect of an Oak Gall extract‑based cream and a metronidazole Gel on the bacterial vaginosis among women in reproductive age .
MATERIAL AND METHODS : This was a double-blind , randomized controlled trial performed on 84 women with BV in reproductive age .
Accordingly , the women were randomly assigned to the Oak Gall ( n = 42 ) or metronidazole ( n = 42 ) groups .
Diagnosis of BV was confirmed when at least 3 of the 4 Amsel criteria were met by the participants ( whitish-grey or thin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the release of a fishy odor on the addition of 10 % KOH , and detection of clue cells > 20 % in the microscopic examination ) .
For each group , either a methanol extract of Oak Gall vaginal cream or a metronidazole vaginal gel ( 5 g ) was used as intravaginal for 5 consecutive days , and all the signs or symptoms were assessed by passing 4-7 days from the treatment completion .
RESULTS : At baseline , the two groups were homogenous in terms of the vaginal burning , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ itching .
Also , all women in both groups were free of symptoms ( vaginal itching and burning sensation , bad odor , dysuria , and dyspareunia ) by passing one week from the intervention ( p CONCLUSION : Oak Gall could be recommended for women in reproductive age who are uncomfortable with the potential side effects of synthetic drugs .

OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed to compare the effect of an Oak Gall extract‑based cream and a metronidazole Gel on the bacterial vaginosis among women in reproductive age.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial performed on 84 women with BV in reproductive age. Accordingly, the women were randomly assigned to the Oak Gall (n = 42) or metronidazole (n = 42) groups. Diagnosis of BV was confirmed when at least 3 of the 4 Amsel criteria were met by the participants (whitish-grey or thin homogeneous discharge, pH ≥ 4.5, the release of a fishy odor on the addition of 10 % KOH, and detection of clue cells>20 % in the microscopic examination). For each group, either a methanol extract of Oak Gall vaginal cream or a metronidazole vaginal gel (5 g) was used as intravaginal for 5 consecutive days, and all the signs or symptoms were assessed by passing 4-7 days from the treatment completion.
RESULTS: At baseline, the two groups were homogenous in terms of the vaginal burning, odor, dysuria, dyspareunia, and itching. Also, all women in both groups were free of symptoms (vaginal itching and burning sensation, bad odor, dysuria, and dyspareunia) by passing one week from the intervention (p < 0.001). The percent of bacterial vaginosis treatment was in 33(82.1 %) patients in terms of Oak Gall group and in 34(87.5 %) patients of Metronidazole group (p=0.56). Notably, Oak Gall was as effective and safe as metronidazole in the treatment of BV in reproductive-aged women.
CONCLUSION: Oak Gall could be recommended for women in reproductive age who are uncomfortable with the potential side effects of synthetic drugs.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--Phytochemicals and cytotoxicity of Quercus infectoria ethyl acetate extracts on human cancer cells.

Conventional and modern cancer treatment were reported to manifest adverse effects to the patients .
More researches were conducted to search for selective cytotoxic agent of plant natural product on cancer cells .
The presences of wide range phytochemicals in ( QI ) extract have been implicated with the cytotoxic effect against various types of cancer cell which remain undiscovered .
This present study aimed to evaluate cytotoxic effect of QI extracts on selected human cancer cells and then , the most potent extract was further analysed for general phytochemical constituents .
QI galls were extracted successively with n-hexane , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extracts ; n-hexane ( QIH ) , ethyl acetate ( QIEA ) and methanol ( QIM ) , respectively .
The most potent extract was qualitatively analysed for the present of tannin , alkaloids , glycosides , saponins , terpenoids , flavonoids and phenolic compounds .
Next , the extracts were tested to determine the cytotoxic activity against cervical cancer cells ( HeLa ) , breast cancer cells ( MDA-MB-231 ) and liver cancer cells ( Hep G2 ) using MTT assay .
Cytotoxic activity of QI extracts against normal fibroblast ( L929 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ determine the cytoselective property .
Meanwhile , DMSO-treated cells served as negative control while cisplatin-treated cells served as positive control .
The most potent extract then chosen to be further investigated for DNA fragmentation as hallmark of apoptosis using Hoechst staining .
Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannin , alkaloids , glycosides , saponins , terpenoids , flavonoids and phenolic compounds .
QIEA extract exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity against HeLa cells with ( ICvalue = 6.33± 0.33 μg/mL ) and showed cytoselective property against L929 cells .
DNA fragmentation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cells .
The richness of phytochemical constituents in QIEA extract might contribute to the potency of cytotoxic activity towards HeLa cells .

Conventional and modern cancer treatment were reported to manifest adverse effects to the patients. More researches were conducted to search for selective cytotoxic agent of plant natural product on cancer cells. The presences of wide range phytochemicals in(QI) extract have been implicated with the cytotoxic effect against various types of cancer cell which remain undiscovered. This present study aimed to evaluate cytotoxic effect of QI extracts on selected human cancer cells and then, the most potent extract was further analysed for general phytochemical constituents. QI galls were extracted successively with n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol yielded three main extracts; n-hexane (QIH), ethyl acetate (QIEA) and methanol (QIM), respectively. The most potent extract was qualitatively analysed for the present of tannin, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Next, the extracts were tested to determine the cytotoxic activity against cervical cancer cells (HeLa), breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) and liver cancer cells (Hep G2) using MTT assay. Cytotoxic activity of QI extracts against normal fibroblast (L929) cell line was also evaluated to determine the cytoselective property. Meanwhile, DMSO-treated cells served as negative control while cisplatin-treated cells served as positive control. The most potent extract then chosen to be further investigated for DNA fragmentation as hallmark of apoptosis using Hoechst staining. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannin, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. QIEA extract exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity against HeLa cells with (ICvalue = 6.33± 0.33 μg/mL) and showed cytoselective property against L929 cells. DNA fragmentation revealed QIEA induced apoptosis in the treated cells. The richness of phytochemical constituents in QIEA extract might contribute to the potency of cytotoxic activity towards HeLa cells.


greenmedinfo--2020-09-27--The findings validate that Quercus infectoria and Phyllanthus emblica are potential antibacterial ag

The findings validate that Quercus infectoria and Phyllanthus emblica are potential antibacterial agents against antimicrobial-resistant  S. Typhi and S. Enteritidis.

Background and Aim : In a scenario of the ineffectiveness of the current drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens , the herbal extracts can serve as an alternative remedy .
This study appraises the antibacterial potency of ( gall ) , ( fruit ) individually and synergistically against antimicrobial-resistant ( AMR ) Typhi andEnteritidis in a time and dose-dependent manner .
Further , the antibacterial phytocompounds were identified employing gas chromatography-mass spectrometry ( GC-MS ) .
Materials and Methods : Preliminary antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was assessed using the agar disk diffusion method.evaluations ofmethanolic extract ( QIME ) andmethanolic extract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Enteritidis were carried out using plate count method .
Results : QIME and PEME at a dose rate of 50 mg/ml and 25 mg/ml , respectively , had a complete bactericidal effect on AMR .
Typhi and .
Enteritidis whereas 10 logCFU/ml of exponential growth was seen in untreated control groups .
At the lower concentrations , QIME and PEME had a significant bacteriostatic effect ( 3-6 logreduction of the test isolates ) .
The synergistic antibacterial effect obtained from the combination of these two plant extracts at 12.5 mg/ml was superior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual treatments .
Phytochemical profiling indicated the presence of tannins , flavonoids , saponins , and terpenoids in both the plant extracts .
GC-MS analysis of QIME and PEME revealed the presence of 16 and 15 antibacterial phytocompounds , respectively .
Further 1 , 2 , 3 Benzenetriol was found as the prominent active principle .
Conclusion : The findings validate that QIME and PEME are potential antibacterial agents against AMR .
Typhi , .
Enteritidis and can play a promising role in antimicrobial packaging , poultry feed additives and can also serve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Background and Aim: In a scenario of the ineffectiveness of the current drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens, the herbal extracts can serve as an alternative remedy. This study appraises the antibacterial potency of(gall),(fruit) individually and synergistically against antimicrobial-resistant (AMR)Typhi andEnteritidis in a time and dose-dependent manner. Further, the antibacterial phytocompounds were identified employing gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).
Materials and Methods: Preliminary antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was assessed using the agar disk diffusion method.evaluations ofmethanolic extract (QIME) andmethanolic extract (PEME) against. Typhi and. Enteritidis were carried out using plate count method.
Results: QIME and PEME at a dose rate of 50 mg/ml and 25 mg/ml, respectively, had a complete bactericidal effect on AMR. Typhi and. Enteritidis whereas 10 logCFU/ml of exponential growth was seen in untreated control groups. At the lower concentrations, QIME and PEME had a significant bacteriostatic effect (3-6 logreduction of the test isolates). The synergistic antibacterial effect obtained from the combination of these two plant extracts at 12.5 mg/ml was superior (p<0.001) than the individual treatments. Phytochemical profiling indicated the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids in both the plant extracts. GC-MS analysis of QIME and PEME revealed the presence of 16 and 15 antibacterial phytocompounds, respectively. Further 1, 2, 3 Benzenetriol was found as the prominent active principle.
Conclusion: The findings validate that QIME and PEME are potential antibacterial agents against AMR. Typhi,. Enteritidis and can play a promising role in antimicrobial packaging, poultry feed additives and can also serve as a platform for formulating effective phytotherapeutics.