Hasil untuk "Other systems of medicine"

M. Cooper, R. Peterson, M. South et al.

The bursa of Fabricius and the thymus are "central lymphoid organs" in the chicken, essential to the ontogenetic development of adaptive immunity in that species. Surgical removal of one or both of these organs in the newly hatched chicken, followed by sublethal X-irradiation the next day, has permitted recognition of two morphologically distinct cell systems in the "peripheral lymphoid tissues" of the spleen, gut, and other organs, and clear definition of the separate functions of each cell system. The thymus-dependent development is represented morphologically by the small lymphocytes of the circulation and the white pulp type of development in the tissues. As in mammals, the thymus-dependent tissues of the chicken are basic to the ontogenesis of cellular immunity: graft versus host reactions, responses of delayed hypersensitivity and homograft rejection; and play a less clearly defined role in the antibody response to at least some antigens. Thymectomized-irradiated chickens are deficient in all these responses, and grow more slowly than any of the other experimental groups. In these animals germinal centers, plasma cells, and capacity for immunoglobulin synthesis remain intact. The bursa-dependent development is represented morphologically by the larger lymphocytes of the germinal centers and the plasma cells, and functionally by the immunoglobulins. Bursectomized-irradiated chickens are agammaglobulinemic and unable to produce detectable antibody despite intense, repeated stimulation with bovine serum albumin and Brucella abortus organisms. The thymus-dependent development in these animals seems to be normal; they have adequate numbers of lymphocytes in the circulation and tissues, are able to reject skin homografts, though more slowly than usual, and to exercise graft versus host reactions. The short life span of these chickens has precluded adequate study of responses of delayed hypersensitivity. There was no evidence of significant impairment of reticuloendothelial function in either the bursectomized-irradiated or the thymectomized-irradiated group, as judged by the clearance of colloidal gold and I131-tagged keyhole limpet hemocyanin.

Chao Wang, Chao Wang, Chao Wang et al.

BackgroundRegulatory T cells (Tregs), characterized by the transcription factor Foxp3, play a pivotal role in maintaining immune homeostasis, preventing autoimmunity, and contributing to tumor immune evasion. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with its long history of clinical application, exerts unique regulatory effects on immune responses. However, a comprehensive mechanistic synthesis of TCM-mediated Treg regulation remains lacking.MethodsWe reviewed studies from PubMed up to August 2025, focusing on molecular, cellular, and microbiota-related mechanisms by which TCM modulates Tregs. Identified evidence was synthesized into four major mechanisms and further integrated into three regulatory axes.ResultsTCM regulates Tregs through four mechanisms: (1) Foxp3 expression regulation mechanisms; (2) IL-2 receptor pathway mechanisms; (3) Regulation of other Treg surface molecules; and (4) Gut microbiota modulation mechanisms. These four mechanisms converge into three regulatory axes: the core execution axis (direct Foxp3 control), the upstream regulatory axis (cytokine and receptor crosstalk), and the cross-boundary integration axis (gut microbiota–immune interactions).ConclusionThis review proposes an integrated framework that refines four regulatory mechanisms into three axes, highlighting the multi-layered and interconnected pathways through which TCM shapes Treg biology. This systems-level perspective provides a theoretical basis for developing TCM-derived strategies in immune-mediated diseases and cancer immunotherapy.

Shumaila Khan, Mahmood Alam, Iqbal Qasim et al.

Abstract BackgroundNational and ethnic mutation frequency databases (NEMDBs) play a crucial role in documenting gene variations across populations, offering invaluable insights for gene mutation research and the advancement of precision medicine. These databases provide an essential resource for understanding genetic diversity and its implications for health and disease across different ethnic groups. ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to systematically evaluate 42 NEMDBs to (1) quantify gaps in standardization (70% nonstandard formats, 50% outdated data), (2) propose artificial intelligence/linked open data solutions for interoperability, and (3) highlight clinical implications for precision medicine across NEMDBs. MethodsA systematic approach was used to assess the databases based on several criteria, including data collection methods, system design, and querying mechanisms. We analyzed the accessibility and user-centric features of each database, noting their ability to integrate with other systems and their role in advancing genetic disorder research. The review also addressed standardization and data quality challenges prevalent in current NEMDBs. ResultsThe analysis of 42 NEMDBs revealed significant issues, with 70% (29/42) lacking standardized data formats and 60% (25/42) having notable gaps in the cross-comparison of genetic variations, and 50% (21/42) of the databases contained incomplete or outdated data, limiting their clinical utility. However, databases developed on open-source platforms, such as LOVD, showed a 40% increase in usability for researchers, highlighting the benefits of using flexible, open-access systems. ConclusionsWe propose cloud-based platforms and linked open data frameworks to address critical gaps in standardization (70% of databases) and outdated data (50%) alongside artificial intelligence–driven models for improved interoperability. These solutions prioritize user-centric design to effectively serve clinicians, researchers, and public stakeholders.

Muhammed Amanat, A F M Shahid Ud Daula, Randhir Singh

Introduction: The rhizomes of Zingiber roseum plant have been used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments. Regardless of worth, no research has accounted its toxicity potential. So, the study was designed to determine safety and toxicity potential of Zingiber roseum rhizomes (ZRR) in acute oral toxicity model in swiss albino mice. Methods: Acute oral toxicity was assessed as per the guidelines of ‘The Brazilian Agency of National Health Surveillance'. In an acute toxicity investigation, 300 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg, and 1200 mg/kg of ZRR extract was orally administered to mice. Thereafter, the animals were monitored for 14 days. To analyze any potential toxicity, general behavior of animals, clinical symptoms of poisoning, body weight, biochemical and hematological marker, and liver histology was carried out. Results: Oral dosing of 300, 600, and 1200 mg/kg of crude extract did not produce mortality or any adverse effect in the laboratory animals. The control and treatment groups of mice exhibited similar behavioral characteristics, neurological signs and total body weight during the treatment period of 14 days. The markers of liver damage i.e., ALT and AST, total serum protein, and albumin did not show any significant change between extract-treated and control mice. The extracts also significantly suppressed ALP activity as compared to control. Kidney function was assessed in mice by measuring creatinine and urea level and no change was observed in level of creatinine and urea in experimental animals. Moreover, no alterations were observed in hematological markers and lipid profile (triglyceride and total cholesterol level). In addition, the liver showed normal architecture and no significant adverse consequences on histopathology analysis. Discussion & conclusion: These outcomes propose that LD50 of rhizomes of Z. roseum is higher than 1200 mg/kg b.w. and might be possibly safe for consumption.

Silvia Salvalaggio, Leonardo Boccuni, Andrea Turolla

Abstract Background and purpose In neurorehabilitation clinical practice, assessment is usually more oriented to evaluate patient’s present status, than to plan interventions according to predicted outcomes. Therefore, we conducted an extensive review of current prognostic models available in the literature for recovery prediction of many functions and constructs, after stroke. We reported results in the form of a practical guide for clinicians, with the aim of promoting the culture of early clinical assessment for patient stratification, according to expected outcome. Summary of key points To define a roadmap for clinicians, a stepwise sequence of five actions has been developed, from collecting information of past medical history to the adoption of validated prediction tools. Furthermore, a clinically-oriented organization of available prediction tools for recovery after stroke have been proposed for motor, language, physiological and independency functions. Finally, biomarkers and online resources with prognostic value have been reviewed, to give the most updated state of the art on prediction tools after stroke. Recommendations for clinical practice Clinical assessment should be directed both towards the objective evaluation of the present health status, and to the prediction of expected recovery. The use of specific outcome measures with predictive value is recommended to help clinicians with the definition of sound therapeutic goals.

Malika Ramdani, Samira Bekaoui, Fatima Zahra Berkchi et al.

Introduction: End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is a major global public health problem. Knowledge of its epidemiology is crucial for its prevention and the optimal care. Objectives: The objective was to study the epidemiological characteristics of patients on chronic hemodialysis, their outcomes and explore their perceptions of therapeutic modalities, through a prospective cohort. Patients and Methods: A prospective study conducted between February 2019 and January 2020, at two public hemodialysis centers in Oujda, Morocco. Results: Around 183 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 53±17 years. The initial nephropathy was undetermined in 37% of cases and dominated by diabetes in 25.7%. About 43% of patients had pre-dialytic nephrology follow-up. Only 32% patients initiated their hemodialysis by an arterialvenous fistula (AVF). The mean hemoglobin rate was 10.3±1.8 g/dL. Moreover, 74 % of patients were under erythropoietin. Serum calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and parathormone were within target ranges in 67%, 52%, 61%, and 51% of cases, respectively. Since, 80% of patients were not clearly informed about therapeutic modalities. The majority of patients opted for kidney transplantation (KT), with two major constraints preventing its realization, consisting the lack of related living donors and financial resources. Besides, 29% of patients were hospitalized for cardiovascular and infectious causes during the study year. The survival rate at 1 and 5 years after the start of dialysis was 97.2% and 95% respectively. Conclusion: Early detection of chronic kidney diseases in high-risk people, their rigorous follow-up and early referral to the nephrologist would improve the quality of care. The promotion of KT and PD would better meet the hemodialysis patients’ needs with better outcomes and lower costs.

Weronika Jaroszewicz, Joanna Morcinek-Orłowska, Karolina Pierzynowska et al.

Anuj Singh, Ashish Kumar Sharma, Amit Kumar et al.

Background: Malnutrition remains the ever challenging, public health concern irrespective of age and economic status. Although nutrition is essential irrespective of age but it has peerless role in the school days. The present study was conducted to assess the socio-economic predisposing factors of malnutrition among school children in the Bareilly district of North India. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Bareilly district of North India. A total of 465 school children were examined for nutritional status and socio-economic factors responsible for malnutrition. Applying multi-stage random sampling technique and pretested, pre-validated schedule was used for data collection which was compiled and analysed with Epi-Info software version 7. Results: The study revealed 40% prevalence of malnutrition among school children. Socio- demographic factors such as gender, caste, type of family and residence were found statistically significant different with nutritional status of child (p<0.05).  However, socio economic factors such as parental education, employment and socio economic conditions were discovered inversely related with malnutrition (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study indicates the necessity to accelerate the government’s coping strategies to win over malnutrition in especially in underserved population of country.

Ariana Shabannezhad, Mohsen Fazlali, Bahram Mirzaian

Background and aims: Infertility can be associated with numerous negative individual and social consequences. The aim of this study was to investigate the mediating role of psychological flexibility in the relationship between self-efficacy and health-promoting behaviors in infertile women. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was a structural equation modeling research. Among women who referred to an infertility center in Sari city to receive infertility services in autumn 2019, 291 subjects were selected by purposive sampling method. The general self-efficacy questionnaire (GSEQ), cognitive flexibility inventory (CFI), and health promoting lifestyle questionnaire (HPLQ) were used to collect data. In the present study, Pearson's correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data using Amos software. Results: The results showed that flexibility (r=0.31, p≤0.01) and self-efficacy (r=0.29, p≤0.01) had a significant positive correlation with health-promoting behaviors. Flexibility mediated the relationship between self-efficacy and health-promoting behaviors (p≤0.01). Conclusion: In summery, in infertile women, flexibility and self-efficacy have a significant role in predicting health-promoting behaviors. It seems that health professionals can help to strengthen flexibility and self-efficacy by designing appropriate interventions and thus health-promoting behaviors in these people.

Shofi Tri Amalia, Ika Yuniar Cahyanti

Penelitian terdahulu menunjukkan adanya perbedaan proses adaptasi yang dialami oleh individu dewasa awal yang orangtuanya bercerai dan yang orangtuanya tidak bercerai. Kasus menunjukkan hasil adaptasi yang negatif dan positif oleh perceraian orangtua tersebut. Penelitian ini mendeskripsikan bagaimana resiliensi pada individu dewasa awal terhadap situasi akibat perceraian orangtua dengan metode kualitatif. Ketiga partisipan memiliki kesulitan yang berbeda-beda namun terdapat persamaan yaitu tumbuhnya ketakutan yang membuat subjek untuk antisipasi dalam berhubungan dan menyiapkan diri dalam berumah tangga. Sumber resiliensi "I am”, "I have”, dan "I can” juga memenuhi adaptasi individu. Perubahan beradaptasinya menjadi lebih berpikir jauh dalam bertindak, lebih dewasa, dan lebih bersyukur dari sebelum adanya peristiwa perceraian. Penelitian dilakukan karena pada masa dewasa awal seseorang mulai dihadapkan tanggungjawab yang lebih serius dalam kehidupan yang berdampak besar dan dewasa awal adalah masa pembentukan hubungan dekat menuju pernikahan sehingga individu dewasa awal dituntut untuk memahami diri dan melakukan adaptasi yang sesuai.

D. De Gregorio, J. Enns, N. Nuñez et al.

Doaa Mohamed, Faten Abd Alazim, Elham Salem et al.

Abstract Background The treatment for children and adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can lead to multiple adverse effects, including poor physical capacity and muscle weakness. This study aimed to determine which is more effective, aerobic exercises or modified strength training program, on muscle strength and quality of life (QOL) for children with ALL. Results In terms of muscle strength, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in selected group of muscles elbow flexors, shoulder abductors, hip flexors, knee extensors, and ankle dorsiflexors at both sides in group B compared with group A, whereas there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between groups on QOL. Conclusion The outcomes of the study showed that there was a significant difference in the selected group of muscles at both sides in group B compared with group A; thus, the modified strength training program is more effective for muscle strength of children with ALL than aerobic training, but there was no significant difference between them on QOL. Trial registration The clinical trial registered in clinicaltrials.gov with an identifier number NCT03147365

Riccardo Polosa, Konstantinos Farsalinos, Domenico Prisco

S. Ansari, Farha Islam, M. Sameem

Herbal medicines have been widely used all over the world since ancient times and have been recognized by physicians and patients for their better therapeutic value as they have fewer adverse effects as compared with modern medicines. Phytotherapeutics need a scientific approach to deliver the components in a sustained manner to increase patient compliance and avoid repeated administration. This can be achieved by designing novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) for herbal constituents. NDDSs not only reduce the repeated administration to overcome non-compliance, but also help to increase the therapeutic value by reducing toxicity and increasing the bioavailability. One such novel approach is nanotechnology. Nano-sized drug delivery systems of herbal drugs have a potential future for enhancing the activity and overcoming problems associated with plant medicines. Hence, integration of the nanocarriers as a NDDS in the traditional medicine system is essential to conflict more chronic diseases like asthma, diabetes, cancer, and others.

Brigitte Wirth, Tobias Potthoff, Sandra Rosser et al.

Abstract Background Besides low back pain (LBP), also neck pain (NP) and mid back pain (MBP) are common health issues in adolescence. Psychological factors are regarded as main risk factors for spinal pain in adolescence, but recent studies suggest that the importance of physical factors might be underestimated. The purpose of this study was to summarize the results of studies on physical risk factors for adolescent NP and MBP. Methods Cross-sectional and prospective English studies on NP and MBP in adolescents aged 10 to 18 were searched by a professional librarian in Medline (OvidSP), Premedline (PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane, CINAHL, PEDro and PsycINFO up to October 2016. Studies that were restricted to self-report via questionnaires were excluded. Results Eight cross-sectional studies could be included in this review. Some aspects of sagittal alignment in sitting (increased lumbar lordosis) and standing (anteroposition of the head, sway-back posture) were associated with NP. Study comparability was impeded by inconsistent definitions of NP and MBP and a wide variety of outcome measures. Conclusions This systematic review indicates that prospective studies using a consistent definition of NP and MBP are needed. Such studies might further investigate sagittal alignment in sitting and standing as possible risk factors for NP and MBP in adolescence using a consistent terminology for the outcomes and longitudinal research designs.

P. Ram Manohar, Oleg Sorokin, James Chacko et al.

The present study is a comparison of the data of spectral analysis of heart rate variability with clinical evaluation of pathological state of doshas. The calculated cardiointervalography values are combined into three integral indexes, which according to the authors' opinion reflect the influence on heart rhythm of vata, pitta and kapha, the regulation systems of the body known as doshas in Ayurveda. Seven gross dosha imbalances were assessed to test the agreement between the two methods in this study. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) spectral data was collected from 42 participants to make the comparison with the clinical assessment of dosha imbalance. Clinical method of dosha assessment and method of calculating integral indexes by cardiointervalography data showed substantial agreement by Kappa coefficient statistic (k = 0.78) in assessment of gross dosha imbalance. The results of the data generated from this pilot study warrant further studies to rigorously validate the algorithms of HRV analysis in understanding dosha imbalance in Ayurvedic clinical practice and research settings. Keywords: Heart rate variability, Ayurveda, Spectral analysis

Fabrizio Benedetti

The book Placebo Effects: Understanding the Other Side of Medical Care examines the importance and the role of placebos across all medical conditions. This book offers a comprehensive description of all aspects of placebo research, a discipline that is now becoming a melting pot of concepts and ideas for medicine and neuroscience. A modern approach to the placebo effect and medical care is emphasized and highlighted across a variety of conditions. The first part sets the stage for a better understanding of placebo effects. To do this, it approaches medical care from an evolutionary and neuroscientific perspective, which helps understand the other side of medical care; that is, the psychosocial component. In the second part, old and new concepts and findings are described, so as to improve understanding of the specific conditions treated in the following chapters. The third part is dedicated to the most studied conditions, such as pain, motor disorders, depression, the immune and endocrine systems, and the fourth part describes those conditions that have been investigated much less, such as the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. All clinical, ethical, and methodological problems and implications related to the placebo effect are discussed in the fifth part, whereas other conditions outside the healing context, such as sport and social psychology, are briefly described in the sixth part.

Yi-Rong Lin, Mei-Yao Wu, Jen-Huai Chiang et al.

Abstract Background Many patients with gynecological disorders seek traditional medicine consultations in Asian countries. This study intended to investigate the utilization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in patients with dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) in Taiwan. Methods We analyzed a cohort of one million individuals randomly selected from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We included 46,337 subjects with newly diagnosed DUB (ICD-9-CM codes 626.8) from January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2010. The patients were categorized into TCM seekers and non-TCM seekers according to their use of TCM. Results Among the subjects, 41,558 (89.69%) were TCM seekers and 4,779 (10.31%) were non-TCM seekers. Patients who were younger tended to be TCM seekers. Most of the patients had also taken Western medicine, especially tranexamic acid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). More than half of TCM seekers (55.41%) received combined treatment with both Chinese herbal remedies and acupuncture. The most commonly used TCM formula and single herb were Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San (Bupleurum and Peony Formula) and Yi-Mu-Cao (Herba Leonuri), respectively. The core pattern of Chinese herbal medicine for DUB patients consisted of Jia-Wei-Xiao-Yao-San, Xiang-Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi), and Yi-Mu-Cao (Herba Leonuri). Conclusions TCM use is popular among patients with DUB in Taiwan. Further pharmacological investigations and clinical trials are required to validate the efficacy and safety of these items.

Larissa Bertacchini de Oliveira, Leidy Johanna Rueda Díaz, Fábio da Costa Carbogim et al.

Abstract OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of teaching strategies used for development of critical thinking (CT) in undergraduate nursing students. METHOD Systematic review with meta-analysis based on the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute . Searches were conducted in the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, LILACS, Cochrane CENTRAL, PsycINFO, ERIC, and a database of theses from four continents. The initial selection and evaluation of studies and assessment of methodological quality was performed by two reviewers independently. RESULTS Twelve randomized clinical trials were included in the study. In the meta-analysis of the four studies included that evaluated the strategy of problem-based learning (PBL), compared to lectures, the effectiveness of PBL was demonstrated with statistical significance (SMD = 0.21 and 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.42; p = 0.0434) for the development of CT in undergraduate nursing students, and the studies were homogeneous (chi-square = 6.10, p = 0.106). CONCLUSION The effectiveness of PBL was demonstrated in the increase of overall CT scores. Further studies need to be conducted in order to develop, implement and evaluate teaching strategies that are guided in high methodological rigor, and supported in theoretical models of teaching and learning.

Mohammad Keshavarz, Shahabeddin Abhari

One of the most common and important therapeutic tools used by physicians is prescription. The use of digital systems in the health field has many benefits and significant impacts on the health system. One of these systems is digital prescription. In this article, First, we will review the existing infrastructure and work done in this area, and then with a new perspective on health issues, we will provide a new infrastructure. Instead of introduction and use of a product or a system or statistical work , we aim to reviewe fundamental issues in the field of health system and present a strategic plan in the field of medicine from the perspective of experts of medical informatics and IT specialists. In fact, we will present a strategic plan and will provide infrastructure in the health field The infrastructure needed to create a digital system will be provided in order to increase productivity in various aspects of the health system; also, the interactions between different parts of this infrastructure will be discussed. The advantages of this project will be reviewed from the perspective of various elements involved in the health system; these include patients, doctors, health system managers, pharmacies, pharmaceutical distribution companies, insurance office and other organizations, such as the environmental organizations, tax office, etc. and benefits of each one will be reviewed