Priyanka Sharma, Bharat P. Dwivedee, D. Bisht
et al.
Tinospora cordifolia is a popular medicinal plant which is used in several traditional medicines to cure various diseases. The common names are Amrita and Guduchi and belong to the family of Menispermaceae. It is considered an essential herbal plant of Indian system of medicine (ISM) and has been used in the treatment of fever, urinary problem, dysentery, skin diseases leprosy, diabetes, and many more diseases. The plant reported containing chemical compound including Alkaloids, Terpenoids, Lignans, Steroids and others that establish the phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of Tinospora cordifolia. The present review highlights the pharmacological importance viz antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, anti-diabetic activity, antistress activity, hypolipidaemic effect, hepatic disorder, anticancer anti HIV potential, antiosteoporotic effects, antitoxic effects, wound healing, anticomplementary activity, and immunomodulating activity, systemic infection and Parkinson's disease.
Abstract. When examining the exchange between Chinese and Western medicine during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, Wang Honghan (王宏翰) stands out as the only Chinese physician who has been thoroughly discussed to date. However, Zhu Shi (祝石) holds a distinct position as the earliest known Chinese to receive Western medical training, extensively practice Western medicine in China, and leave behind medical writings. Drawing on Western anatomical knowledge, Zhu Shi reevaluated traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and even incorporated distillation techniques into his clinical practice. This paper primarily focuses on Zhu Shi, with comparative reference to Wang Honghan, exploring their medical learning journeys, reflections on TCM, attitudes toward anatomy, Zhu Shi’s influence on Wang Honghan, and their respective medical practices. Through such comparative analysis, this study provides deeper insights into the integration of Chinese and Western medicine during the early Qing dynasty.
Britt Normann, Britt Normann, Ellen Christin Arntzen
et al.
Background and purposeMultiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with high rates of unemployment, and barriers for work are essential to identify in the regular follow-up of these people. The current study aimed to culturally adapt and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the Multiple Sclerosis Work Difficulties Questionnaire-23 (MSWDQ-23).MethodsFollowing backward and forward translation, the Norwegian version of the MSWDQ-23 (MSWDQ-23NV) was completed by 229 people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Validity was evaluated through confirmatory factor analysis and by associating scores with employment status, disability, and health-related quality of life outcome measures. Convergent validity was checked by correlating MSWDQ-23 scores with alternative study measures. Internal consistencies were examined by Cronbach's alfa.ResultsA good fit for the data was demonstrated for the MSWDQ-23NV in confirmatory factor analysis, with excellent internal consistencies also demonstrated for the full scale and its subscales (physical barriers, psychological/cognitive barriers, external barriers). The MSWDQ-23NV subscales were related in the expected direction to health-related quality of life outcome measures. While higher scores on the physical barriers subscale was strongly associated with higher levels of disability and progressive MS types, higher scores on all subscales were associated with not working in the past year.DiscussionThe Norwegian MSWDQ-23 is an internally consistent and valid instrument to measure perceived work difficulties in persons with all types of MS in a Norwegian-speaking population. The MSWDQ-23NV can be considered a useful tool for health care professionals to assess self-reported work difficulties in persons with MS. The Norwegian MSWDQ-23 scale should be examined for test-retest reliability and considered implemented in the regular follow up at the MS-outpatient clinics in Norway to support employment maintenance.
Abstract Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has demonstrated promise as a treatment for eating disorders (ED). The present study aimed to systematically evaluate the current evidence regarding the use of EMDR therapy in the treatment of EDs, ED symptomatology and body image concerns. Included articles were original studies that described the use of EMDR therapy in the treatment of EDs, published in the English language in a peer‐review journal. The search was conducted using four electronic databases: PsycINFO, MedLine, Embase, and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers conducted screening, selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction. Of the initial search of 109 potential studies, eight met inclusion criteria, including six case studies, one quasi‐experimental study, and one randomised control trial (RCT). The RCT indicated that including an EMDR component did not have benefits over standard treatment for core ED symptoms, whereas the quasi‐experimental study demonstrated some benefits for inclusion of EMDR as a treatment adjunct for anorexia nervosa patients. Case studies indicated some promising outcomes for patients with various presentations. Despite EMDR being an available treatment for several decades now, there is limited clinical evidence regarding its efficacy in the treatment of EDs. These findings highlight a critical need for more clinical research in this area to ensure clinical practice is guided and supported by evidence‐based outcomes.
Seiring dengan majunya teknologi, turut muncul kejahatan seksual yang difasilitasi teknologi, salah satunya Image-Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA) yang marak terjadi secara internasional maupun di Indonesia. Berbagai studi empiris telah dilakukan untuk meneliti faktor-faktor penyebab perilaku IBSA dan hasil yang ditemukan sangat beragam. Oleh karena itu, penulis membuat studi integrative review untuk memetakan faktor determinan perilaku IBSA. Literatur-literatur yang ditelaah oleh penulis diambil dari dua database yaitu Scopus dan Clarivate Web of Science. Dari 996 literatur yang teridentifikasi, didapatkan 13 literatur yang relevan untuk ditelaah lebih lanjut. Faktor determinan yang berhasil dipetakan dalam studi ini adalah karakteristik demografis, attitudinal, dan experiential, dark personality traits, toxic online disinhibition, konsumsi pornografi daring, serta norma gender dan interaksi homososial. Meski temuan studi-studi sebelumnya sangat beragam, tetapi terdapat beberapa temuan faktor determinan yang tidak konsisten. Maka itu, penelitian selanjutnya dapat meneliti lebih lanjut terkait inkonsistensi tersebut.
Kamsaharitaki Avaleha (KHA), a polyherbal formulation, has been indicated in the management of various diseases such as Shotha (Inflammation), Shwasa (Dyspnea/Asthma), Jwara (Fever), Arochaka (Tastelessness), etc. It is described first time by Acharya Charaka in his classic Charaka Samhita. In certain classical texts, the formulation is also described as Dashamoola Haritaki (DH), whereas a few has mentioned both, as two different formulations. The same formulation is also termed as Haritkyadi Leha (HL) by some other seers. Objective: The present study was undertaken to understand whether all the three variants of the formulation are similar or different based on its composition, quantity of ingredients, dose, adjuvants, and indications. Data Source: All classical texts of Ayurveda and published research work related to the formulation were referred to review this article. Review Methods: A thorough and comprehensive review of KHA, Dashamoola Haritaki, and Haritkyadi Leha from different Ayurvedic classical texts and published research materials (printed and online) have been done. Results and Conclusion: KHA for the first time is described by Acharya Charaka. The same formulation with three different names has been found, the only difference is that quantity of Prakshepa is mentioned by some while not by others.
Yuyun Ika Christina, Muhaimin Rifa’i, Nashi Widodo
et al.
Background: Elephantopus scaber and Phaleria macrocarpa have recently been interested as novel anticancer agents. However, there was no scientific evaluation of the anticancer effect of both plant combinations. Objective: This study investigated the potential anticancer effects of combined E. scaber and P. macrocarpa leaves extract on human breast cancer cells lines. Materials and methods: T47D cells were treated with the combination of E. scaber and each part of P. macrocarpa (leaves/EL, mesocarp/EM, seed/ES and pericarp/EP). T47D cells were then exposed to three ratios (1:1, 2:1, and 1:2) of the best combination for 24, 48, and 72 h. The cell viability of T47D and TIG-1 cells was assessed using WST-1 assay. The apoptotic hallmarks were determined using FITC Annexin V-PI staining and DNA fragmentation assay. The cell proliferation and cell cycle profiles were analyzed using CFSE (carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester) and Propidium iodide-flowcytometry assays. The relative number of p-ERα, p-Nrf2, p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR were assessed using flow cytometry. The molecular docking analysis was also performed to confirm the mechanism of the extract in silico. Results: The combination of E. scaber and P. macrocarpa leaves (EL) possessed strong cytotoxic activity (p < 0.05) than other combination groups and cisplatin. EL showed selective killing only to T47D cells. EL at a ratio of 2:1 potentially suppressed the cell viability and cell division, induced apoptosis, and arrested the cell cycle of T47D cells by triple inhibiting the p-Nrf2, p-ERα, and p-PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Molecular docking analysis confirmed that the possible mechanism of EL to reduce T47D cell growth was by inhibiting ERα and Nrf2-complex, resulting in the reduction in the crosstalk effect of Nrf2, ERα and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. Conclusion: The combination of leaf extracts from E. scaber and P. macrocarpa caused cell death in breast cancer cells T47D and not in normal cells TIG-1; hence has the potential to show anticancer efficacy in preclinical and clinical trials.
Caitlin Rajala, Camden Waterhouse, Emily Evans
et al.
BackgroundThe return to participation in meaningful life roles for persons with acquired brain injury (pwABI) is a goal shared by pwABI, their families, clinicians, and researchers. Synthesizing how pwABI define participation will help to identify the aspects of participation important to pwABI and can inform a person-centered approach to participation outcome assessment. To-date, the qualitative synthesis approach has been used to explore facilitators and barriers of participation post-stroke, and views about participation among individuals with stroke in the UK.ObjectivesThis paper's objectives are to (1) conduct a scoping review of qualitative literature that defines and characterizes participation from the perspective of pwABI of any type, (2) synthesize how pwABI define and categorize participation, and (3) link the themes identified in the qualitative synthesis to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) using standardized linking rules to enhance the comparability of our findings to other types of health information, including standardized outcome measures.MethodsWe completed a scoping review of qualitative literature. Our search included PubMed, APA PsychInfo, CINAHL, and Embase databases and included articles that (1) had qualitative methodology, (2) had a sample ≥50% pwABI, (3) had aims or research questions related to the meaning, definition, perception, or broader experience of participation, and (4) were in English. Qualitative findings were synthesized using Thomas and Harden's methodology and resultant themes were linked to ICF codes.ResultsThe search identified 2,670 articles with 2,580 articles excluded during initial screening. The remaining 90 article abstracts were screened, and 6 articles met the full inclusion criteria for the qualitative synthesis. Four analytical themes emerged: (1) Essential Elements of Participation (2) How pwABI Approach Participation, (3) Where pwABI Participate, and (4) Outcomes of Participation. Each overarching theme included multiple descriptive themes.ConclusionIn this paper, we identified themes that illustrate key components of participation to pwABI. Our results provide insight into the complex perspectives about participation among pwABI and illustrate aspects of participation that should hold elevated importance for clinicians and researchers supporting participation of pwABI.
Oral O. Daley, Laura B. Roberts-Nkrumah, Angela T. Alleyne
et al.
Abstract Background Since its introduction to the Anglophone Caribbean in 1793, breadfruit has had a diverse history in the region, and there is a considerable repository of traditional knowledge about the crop, that is undocumented. Consequently, it remains underutilized as a food source, despite recognition of its potential to contribute to food and nutrition security. Understanding the folk taxonomy and traditional knowledge associated with its diversity and uses is a prerequisite to develop programs for its commercial production and utilization. Method This study was conducted among 170 respondents who were selected across four Anglophone Caribbean countries and provided information on the ethnobotany and traditional knowledge associated with breadfruit biodiversity, including systems of naming, identification and classification of breadfruit cultivars or types. Results Breadfruit has socio-cultural and economic value and is produced for both home use and sale by most respondents (68%). The genetic diversity of breadfruit managed by the respondents is also important, as a total of 51 vernacular names were identified, with nine of those names recorded for the first time in this study. Breadfruit types were identified by morphological and agronomical characteristics, with other important traits relating to use and cooking quality. Classification of breadfruit cultivars or types was based on eating-quality, most suitable methods of preparation and ease of cooking. Conclusion The ethnobotanical and traditional knowledge obtained from this study may be useful in assessing the genetic diversity of breadfruit and guiding future community-based conservation and classification studies of this important crop resource in the Caribbean. This is crucial to support the commercialization of breadfruit to improve its contribution to food and nutrition security.
This article presents description of social structures such as, for example, states, in the context of their consideration as systems. Moreover, it seeks to develop K. Marx’s model in terms of systematic approach, as well as to justify the application of the Fibonacci sequence to systems in general and, in particular, to social systems. The description covers a wide range of issues, ranging from the assertion of the basic principle of living systems as patterns in resources flows to description of functions of various aspects of states and their economics in terms of objective needs of such structures. In addition, this article justifies synergetic effect based on proposed model, and the way this effect is applied to state systems. Moreover, it includes the description of main changes of socio-economic formations throughout the history as a natural development of social systems, including possible modern stages. The fundamental tool of this description is description of essence of the mechanism of property rights and its formation options. The differences of two extreme directions of such development are also described on the basis of the objective factor of resource provision. Special attention is given to the concept of surplus value as a feature of social production systems.
Waraporn Khumros, Arnond Vorayingyong, Siriluck Suppapitiporn
et al.
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to determine the effectiveness of a modified HBM-based intervention to reduce body mass index (BMI) for age in overweight junior high school students. Design/methodology/approach - A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted in the first and second years of a junior high school in the center of Thailand. In total, 24 classrooms were randomly assigned to a modified health belief model intervention arm (HBMIA), and 24 classrooms were randomly assigned to a traditional school health education arm (control). In total, 479 students who were overweight (BMI forage = median +1 SD, aged 12–15 years) participated in the study. The HBMIA used the health belief model (HBM) as a motivator for behavioral strategies that included modifying diet and participating in physical activity. BMI, health knowledge and behavior for preventing obesity were recorded at baseline and at six months. A multilevel regression model was performed to calculate mean difference between HBMIA and control group. Findings - The students who participated in the HBMIA showed a decrease in BMI of 1.76 kg/m2, while those who participated in the control showed an increase in BMI of 1.13 kg/m2, with a mean difference of –2.88 kg/m2 (95% CI =–3.01 to –2.75), an improvement in health knowledge (mean difference 27.28; 95% CI =26.15–28.41) and an improvement in health behavior (mean difference 23.54; 95% CI =22.60–24.48). Originality/value - A modified HBM-based intervention to reduce BMI for age is effective in overweight junior high school students.
Other systems of medicine, Public aspects of medicine
Anca D. Farcas, Augustin C. Mot, Cezara Zagrean-Tuza
et al.
Abstract Background Natural extracts with beneficial biological activities are nowadays of high interest, in various treatment or prophylaxis. Hypericum capitatum has been known for its curative effects for centuries and its extracts have become of interest due to their distinct activity among other Hypericaceae members. In this study, further light is aimed to be shed on the secondary-metabolites composition of H. capitatum extracts, using chromatographic techniques and Electron paramagnetic resonance profiles in alkaline medium. Considering that no previous works explored the anti-inflammatory activity of H. capitatum, here, an in vivo study is also designed in order to evaluate this property by assessing the impact of one of H. capitatum extracts in ameliorating turpentine oil-induced inflammation on rats and to quantify their blood antioxidants level. Methods Chromatographic techniques and Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy were used in order to describe the chemical profile in different parts of the plant. The in vivo study on turpentine-oil induced inflammation in rats included three doses of H. capitatum extract expressed in rutin concentration. Oxidative stress was measured using total oxidative status, total antioxidant capacity, oxidative stress index, 3-nitrotyrosine, nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase and the inflammatory response was evaluated by performing a complete blood cells count and C reactive protein. Results The extract was remarkably rich in rutin; however, other polyphenolic-like minor components appeared important in explaining the observed biological properties. The tested extract prevents the increase of inflammation-induced white blood cell count, number of neutrophils, and serum nitric oxide, and did so in a dose-dependent manner, similarly to the positive control—diclofenac. In addition, the same extract appeared to be a good alternative to diclofenac to restore total oxidative status, thiobarbituric active reactive species, total proteins and C reactive proteins. Moreover, antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and total serum thiol concentration were significantly increased by the tested extract. Conclusions Due to its powerful reservoir rich in rutin, H. capitatum extract depicted its in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects indicating it to be a good alternative to conventional drugs for oxidative stress protection.
This field report highlights some modalities used in resettlement countries, such as Australia, which provide services to vulnerable Rohingya refugees. It encompasses both personal reflections coupled with an overview of the agency-based operational framework and evaluation which underpins the work of Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors and informs our community work towards the recovery of those impacted by war and systemic state-sponsored terrorism. Our aim is to further contribute to discourse about the ways in which service provision is accomplished, ensuring marginalised refugee groups are protected and supported. A background to the current Rohingya refugee context is provided, as well as the biopsychosocial systemic model informing our work. A brief overview of our agency’s various programmes, informed by community consultations and designed to foster healing Rohingya refugees, is presented. We describe our experience in evaluating services for improving efficacy when working with traumatised populations, including recommendations towards community self-determination and asset-based community development for Rohingya refugees.
Iturrioz-Rodríguez N, Correa-Duarte MA, Fanarraga ML
Nerea Iturrioz-Rodríguez,1 Miguel A Correa-Duarte,2,3 Mónica L Fanarraga11Nanomedicine Group, University of Cantabria – IDIVAL, Santander, 39011, Spain; 2Department of Physical Chemistry, Center for Biomedical Research (CINBIO), Southern Galicia Institute of Health Research (IISGS), Vigo 36310, Spain; 3Biomedical Research Networking Center for Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Universidade de Vigo, Vigo 36310, SpainAbstract: The implementation of nanotechnology in medicine has opened new research horizons particularly in the field of therapeutic delivery. Mesoporous silica particles have emerged as biocompatible drug delivery systems with an enormous potential in the treatment of cancer among many other pathologies. In this review, we focus on the unique properties of these particles as chemotherapy delivery carriers. Here, we summarize the general characteristics of these nanomaterials – including their physicochemical properties and customizable surfaces – different stimuli that can be used to trigger targeted drug release, biocompatibility and finally, the drawbacks of these types of nanomaterials, highlighting some of the most important features of mesoporous silica nanoparticles in drug delivery.Keywords: nanocarrier, drug release, targeted drug delivery, biocompatibility, biodegradability, tumor