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Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-20-3247
Hypercholesterolemia plays an important role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) that represent one of the greatest worldwide medical problems nowadays. Recently, an increased attention/ interest for natural antioxidant/ hypercholesterolemia as WG/WGO is increasing. Wheat germ/ Wheat germ oil (WG/WGO) is an excellent source of essential and polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. It is one of the richest natural sources of tocopherol. This work aims to evaluate the effect of administration of wheat germ (WG) /wheat germ oil (WGO) for 6 weeks on serum lipid profile, lipid peroxidation (liver malondialdehyde) in hypercholesterolemic rats. One hundred and twenty maleSprague Dawelyrats weighing 180-192 gm were used in this study. They were randomly distributed into six groups (20 rats/ group) as follow: g1: normal control, G2: hypercholesterolemic rats; G3: Normal rats treated with WG; G4: hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WG; G5: Normal rats treated with WGO; G6: hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WGO for 6 weeks. Also WG was analysed for its nutritive value, while WGO was analysed for fatty acid profile, and studied for its physico-chemical properties. The results showed significant elevation of liver malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum lipid profile in untreated rats fed on hypercholesterolemic diet. Hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WG/WGO showed an improvement in the biochemical assay of their lipid profile compared with untreated hypercholesterolemic rats. WG/WGO may be able to protect against atherosclerosis and CVD. The administration of WG /WGO to diets of rats caused a marked reduction in TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, TG and MDA. This improvement effect may be mediated via enhancement of the antioxidant defence system and other factors. However, further clinical studies on human beings are required to assess the efficacy and safety of the WG/WGO.
Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-15-822
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) based drugs for overcoming multiple drug resistance of hematological malignancies could solve the problem of poor response to the chemotherapy and hight relapse rate. The main factor that significantly limits biomedical application of siRNA is inefficient delivery to target cells and tissues. The attachment of siRNA to molecules, which enter into the cell by natural transport mechanisms, can improve cellular uptake of siRNA. In current study the carrier-free cellular uptake of siRNA containig cholesterol residues conjugated to the 5’-end of the sense strand via oligomethylene linker of various length (here and after Ch-siRNA) was explored. The data demonstrate that cholesterol residue increase the accumulation of siRNA in all tested cell lines and the primary cells. The efficiency of Ch-siRNA accumulation in K562 cells depends greatly on the leangth of the linker connecting cholesterol and siRNA: Ch-siRNAs with linker of 10 - 12 methylene units accumulate the most efficiently in this cells. It was found that Ch-siRNA effectively accumulates in MOLT-3 (acute lymphoblastic leukemia, ALL), HL-60 (acute myelogenous leukemia, AML), K562 (chronic myelogenous leukemia CML) and primary peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from patient with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) or healthy donor resulting in near 100% of transfected cell when used at 1 mM concentration.
Mar 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2326-0793.jpgr-13-333
Carbofuran is a broad spectrum pesticide used in agricultural fields and domestic places throughout the world. It is one of the deadly toxic carbamate pesticide that kills the pest by inhibiting the crucial enzyme of nervous system known as acetyl cholinesterase. In the present study, we report how carbofuran increases the different spectrum of cholesterols, including free cholesterol and esterified cholesterol in the fish hepatocytes. It is observed that induced-cholesterol can inhibit the enzymatic activity such as Ca++-ATPase, which is a critical protein for maintaining the calcium homoeostasis in the cellular microenvironment. Carbofuran integrates into human body through foods and drinks. As trace of carbofuran is identified in our daily food and drinks, we examined the homology of Ca++-ATPase between the fish and human, so our data can illuminate the effects of carbofuran on this crucial enzyme. While studying the homology with the help of bioinformatics, we recognized that there is around 70% homology in the protein sequence of Ca++-ATPase between fish Heteropneustesfossilisand human (Homo sapiens), which appears as sufficient to simulate our fish-model data in human. This study demonstrates that carbofuran affects our day-to-day life by inhibiting Ca++-ATPase through modulation of lipid synthesis, a critical regulatory system that controls overall homeostasis in our body.
Mar 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-4921
Hippocrates trusted foodstuff, maybe medicine, and healthcare management, administration, and costing are important. Nutraceuticals, derived from "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical," cover differing healing areas like “antagonistic-hard, cold and cough, sleep difficulties, digestion, cancer prevention, osteoporosis, blood pressure, cholesterol management, pain relievers, depression, and diabetes”. “Stephen De Felice”, “founder of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, created the term in 1989”.Functional foods, like milk and orange juice, supply health benefits that surpass food, in the way that a better lifestyle and a lower risk of ailment. Nutraceuticals, in another way, involve fortified dairy products like milk that help avoid or cure illnesses and disorders apart from anaemia.Conventional arrangements like Solvents extraction , Soxhlet distillation ,maceration and “Non conventional designs” like ‘Microwave assisted origin’, Ultrasound Assisted Extraction are used to restore the bioactive material from plants for nutraceuticals.”The Indian Health and Dietary Supplement Association” supports drug, nutraceutical, herbaceous, and direct selling energies by categorising them based on chemical arrangement, food type, and conventional arrangement.This paper gives a brief review on nutraceuticals ,its history , its market trend , extraction techniques , benefits and its applications .
Nov 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-22-4266
The present study investigated the effect of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dialiumguineense stem bark on lipid profile and CCl4- induced histological changes in liver of Wistar rats. Adult male Wistar rats (n = 25) weighing 160 – 180 g (mean weight = 170 ± 10 g) were randomly assigned to five groups (5 rats per group): normal control, CCl4 control, silymarin, aqueous extract and ethanol extract groups. With the exception of normal control, the rats were exposed to CCl4 (single oral dose of 1.0 mL/kg body weight, bwt). Silymarin group rats were administered standard hepatoprotective drug, silymarin, at a dose of 100 mg/kg bwt, while those in the two treatment groups received 1000 mg/kg bwt of aqueous or ethanol extract orally for 28 days. Lipid profile parameters were determined in plasma, while rat liver was subjected to histopathological examination. The results showed that the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), very-low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) as well as atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) were significantly lower in CCl4 control group than in normal control group, but they were increased by extract treatment (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in atherogenic coefficient (AC) and cardiac risk ratio (CRR) among the groups (p > 0.05). Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) markedly disrupted the structure of hepatocytes and induced steatosis (intra-hepatocyte fat in-growth and inflammation) which was predominantly microvesicular. However, treatment with aqueous and ethanol extracts of D. guineense stem bark showed marked regeneration of hepatocytes (unremarkable hepatic lobular architecture). The toxic hepatic injury induced by CCl4 was significantly blocked by the plant extracts.
Feb 2022
Introduction Calcium (Ca2+) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ischemic cell damage. Intracellular Ca2+ accumulation leads to neuronal damage by triggering the cycle of cytotoxic events, however the relationship of serum Ca levels and the pathways involved in ischemic injury is unclear. Aim of Study To investigate the relationship of serum Ca2+ levels with severity of acute ischaemic stroke, serum calcium (Ca2+) levels were measured within the first 48 hours and were compared with the clinical severity of acute ischaemic stroke. Material and Methods A hospital based cross sectional study was performed among 100 patients of acute ischaemic stroke who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The Study was done from July 2020 to August 2021 in SPRC & Neurology Hospital Dhaka, Bangladesh And BSMMU Hospital Dhaka, Bangladesh. After hospitalization presenting complaints, physical findings of the patients were recorded. Severity of stroke was measured by NIHSS scale. Serum calcium level of every patient was measured. Calcium level was divided into 3 groups by weighted average. Statistical analysis was carried out by a non-parametric Ruska Wallis test. Results Among the 100 patients 59% were male. Among all patients 57% of patients were found to be smokers (98% male, 2% female). Among all patients 63% patients were found hypertensive and 21% of all patients (24% male, 17% female) were diabetic. Mean cholesterol level was 257.98mg/dl with standard deviation 55.49 which is above the reference range suggesting hypercholesterolemia, Triglyceride was borderline and LDL cholesterol was slightly higher and HDL cholesterol was slightly lower. Calcium level was divided into 3 groups and NIHSS score was calculated for every patient in each group. The median NIHSS score for group1 (calcium level ≤8.8 mg/dl) was 9(2-20), for group 2 (calcium level 8.9-9.6 mg/dl) was 6 (1-17) and for group 3 (calcium level ≥9.7mg/dl) was 4 (1-16). Conclusion Commonest risk factor of ischaemic stroke is hypertension. Other risk factors are smoking, diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia, cardiac disease. Higher serum calcium level is associated with less severity of ischaemic stroke.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-21-3848
Study was aimed to evaluate effect of Biofield Treated Proprietary Formulation and Biofield Treatment per se on cardiac performance on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats. Nine groups were assigned, in which four were preventive maintenance groups. The constituents of test formulation were divided into two parts; one section was defined as the untreated test formulation, while the other portion of the test formulation and three groups of animals received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 13.39%, 14.65%, 17.74%, 14.36%, and 14.69% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to disease control (G2) group. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP)was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 25.95%, 24.41%, 30.79%, 24.67%, and 25.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Heart rate (HR) was significantly (p≤0.05) reduced by 6.58%, 8.06%, and 6.99% in G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total leucocyte count (TLC) count was increased by 12.8% and 17.45% in G5 and G8 groups, respectively than G2 group. Neutrophils and lymphocytes were increased by 60.11% (G8) and 11.49% (G5), respectively than G2. Eosinophils were reduced by 11.11%, 20%, and 15% in G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total cholesterol was significantly decreased by 22.64% (p≤0.05), 15.78%, 25.56% (p≤0.05), 22.56%, and 34.27% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Triglyceride was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 34.55%, 43.29%, 55.23%, 28.57%, and 37.28% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. VLDL level was also significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 80.81%, 83.61%, 86.82%, 79.19%, and 81.63% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 group, respectively; while LDL was reduced by 20.32% (G9) group than G2. Atherogenic index (AI) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 78.36%, 83.21%, 84.68%, 74.06%, and 72.98% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. The level of uric acid (UA) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 57.51%, 52.36%, 45.49%, 43.78%, and 40.77% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups respectively, as compared with the G2 group. Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminases (SGPT) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 45.96%, 48.01%, 37.19%, 37.69%, and 42.93% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) level was significantly reduced by 10.19%, 21.97% (p≤0.01), 10.47%, and 16.94% in the G5, G6, G7, and G9 groups, than G2. Overall, the data suggested significance improvement of heart-related hematology, hepatic, and lipid parameters with respect to various pathological conditions that might be beneficial various types of cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the results showed the significant slowdown the cardiovascular disease progression and its complications/symptoms in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-21-3759
The present study was initiated to improve the farm animals’ productivity through the use of medicinal plants. More specifically, to determine in female cavies the effects of aqueous extract of avocado seed powder (AEASP) on the estrous cycle, the levels of LH, estradiol and tissues (ovarian and uterine) biomarkers of oxidative stress. For the trial, 24 female cavies with regular estrous cycles were selectedamong 40 trough observation of 4 estrous cycles. They were randomly shared into 4 groups of 6 females each, comparable in term of body weight (bw) (463.60±77.69 g). They received by gavage 1 mL/kg bw of distilled water for the control and 100, 200, 400 mg/kg bw of AEASP respectively for the groups EA100, EA200 and EA400. Subsequently, 3 estrous cycles were studied every day during all the treatment period. At the end, the cavies were slaughtered at the estrus phase; blood, ovaries and uterus were collected for analysis. As result, the AEASP significantly (p<0.05) increase the duration of the estrus phase in females of group EA100, without affecting significantly the duration of the estrous cycle as referred to the control. It significantly reduce the serum level of total cholesterol and increase (p<0.05) the serum concentration of LH in cavies of group EA100 compared to the control. AEASP significantly increase the serum concentration of estradiol in all treated females as referred to the control. It significantly increase the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the ovaries of the females of group EA400. In the uterine tissue, superoxide dismutase (SOD) increase significantly in the cavies of group EA200 compare to the control. We can conclude that the AEASP increase the duration of the estrus phase of cavies without affecting the duration of the estrous cycle. Subsequently, it increases the serum concentration of LH and estradiol.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-20-3672
Background Prevalence of Metabolic syndrome is high among Asians including Indians, and is high among those having sedentary occupations. Teaching is one of the important occupations, which demands no strenuous physical activity. However, there is little information available about the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among teaching staff of engineering college. Hence, the present study was conducted to study its prevalence, certain risk factors and co-morbidities among teaching staff of engineering institutes. Methods Teachers from engineering colleges of Nagpur city were the study subjects. Data was collected by interview technique. Clinical examination and laboratory investigations like Fasting blood glucose, High Density Lipoproteins and Serum Triglycerides were done. National Cholesterol Evaluation Programme (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel Three (ATPIII) criteria were used to study Metabolic syndrome. Blood pressure and anthropometric measurements like height, weight and waist circumference were obtained by standard methods. Results The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was found to be 20.5%. It was 25.32% in females and 19.31% in males. It was more common in subjects of higher age group, muslim religion, and among widows and separated. Alcohol consumption, smoking and sedentary life style was found to be significantly associated with presence of metabolic syndrome. Frozen shoulder, fungal infection and stroke were common co morbidities found among subjects having metabolic syndrome.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-20-3454
We investigated physical steric and thermal stability effects induced by cholesterol and polyethylene glycol (PEG) in liposomes encapsulated with riboflavin. The composition of liposome was varied systematically to decipher the individual and combined effects of cholesterol and PEG on the stabilization of liposomes, specially the photopolymerizable liposomes for their potential applications in photo-treatments. Our results indicate that inclusion of PEG in the lipids enhances the steric stabilization by adopting a brush-like regime that prevents the agglomeration of encapsulated liposomes. A mechanistic differential scanning calorimetry studies reveal the phase transitions and enthalpy changes in the lipid bilayer due to the presence of cholesterol suggesting its role in regulating membrane fluidity. Supporting in- vitro studies confirm the efficacy of PEGylated formulations encapsulating riboflavin.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3448
The aim of this study was to determine the influence of chronic supplementation with grape juice (400ml), in modulating the anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Thirty-nine seniors participated and were evaluated at baseline after 30 days. The chronic consumption of grape juice reduced weight, BMI and waist circumference. Indeed, the consumption modulated biochemical parameters, decreased the total cholesterol levels, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, Urea and GGT. In addition, the intake of juice improved the performance in the TUG test, and caused more stability in the elderly. The levels of protein oxidation declined and the antioxidant potential significantly increased as well as SOD and the ratio SOD / CAT. In contrast, levels reduced sulfhydryl groups to consumption. In nuclear changes there are a decrease in the frequency of MN and picnosis. In conclusion, grape juice could be an excellent option to improve quality of life in elderly.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2374-9431.jbd-20-3195
Purpose The goals of the present study were to assess the genotypic and allelic distribution of Bsm-I (rs1544410) and Apa-I (rs7975232) polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients in comparison to control patients of the same age without CAD and to determine whether these gene variants are associated with dyslipidemia. Materials and Methods Based on a case-control design, 302 hospitalized patients with CAD and 194 people of comparable age without CAD were enrolled in the study. The BsmI and ApaI polymorphisms of VDR gene were studied using polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction analysis. The allele digested by the restriction enzyme was denoted by a lower letter, whereas that not digested was indicated by a capital letter. Determination of the level of vitamin D and immunoreactive insulin in the blood serum was carried out using the immuno-enzyme method. Results The bb genotype of Bsm-I VDR gene polymorphism was detected more often in patients with CAD than in the comparison group with an increased risk of CAD by 1.52 times (p=0.006, OR=1.52(1.05÷2.2). The level of HDL cholesterol was higher in CAD patients − carriers of BB genotype compared to its level in Bb genotype carriers and bb genotype carriers (1,13±0,05 mmol/l, 1,01±0,03 mmol/l, 1,02±0,03 mmol/l respectively, p<0,05). The level of vitamin D was higher in patients with BB genotype compared to its level in bb genotype carriers (45.12±3.73 nmol / l and 34.16±1.95 nmol/l respectively, p=0.008). The occurrence of a allele of Apa-I VDR gene polymorphism was higher in patients with CAD than in the control group (p=0.02, OR=1.21(0.93÷1.57). HDL cholesterol level was higher in CAD patients - AA genotype carriers compared with carriers of Aa and aa genotypes (1.18±0.08 mmol / l, 1,02±0.02 mmol / l and 1.01±0.03 mmol/l respectively, p<0,05). Immunoreactive insulin level was significantly higher in CAD patients – aa genotype carriers. No differences in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides were found. Vitamin D level was lower in CAD patients - Aa and aa genotype carriers (33,8±33,9 nmol/l ,p=0,02 and 24,7±4,9 nmol/l, p=0,05 respectively in comparison to vitamin D level = 43,3 ±4,2 nmol/l in AA genotype carriers). Conclusion The bb genotype of Bsm-I VDR gene polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of CAD. A carriage of b allele in CAD patients is associated with lower level of vitamin D and HDL cholesterol. A carriage of a allele of Apa-I VDR gene polymorphism in CAD patients is associated with lower level of vitamin D and HDL cholesterol.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-20-3236
Objective Search of pathogenetic mechanisms and risk factors of atherosclerosis in the employees of the cleaning service in Tbilisi. Materials and Methods As a result of a preliminary survey and examination of 200 employes of Tbilisi cleaning service aged 25-45 years (2014-2016), 22 patients with angina, hypercholesterolemia, intimae-media thickness > 0.65 mm, were selected into I group, and 23 individuals without these disorders into II group. In the blood plasma of the selected patients the intensity of oxidative metabolism parameters, TAA and MDA were determined. The variance and correlation analysis (АNOVA) was used for conducting the comparative analysis of the levels of studied parameters. Results In the combined group (I+II) there are several reliable correlations between the Age -TCol, Age-MDA, BMI-Tg, BMI-MDA, LDLChol-HDLChol, LDLChol–TChol, HDLChol-TChol, LDLChol-MDA, LDLChol-TAA. no correlation between these parameters in individual groups (I and II) was found. That indicates that we have an imaginary correlation related to the large intergroup difference between the average values of the group indicators, that is the values of various indicators change during the development of the pathological process, but there is no causal relationship between these alterations. The reliable TAA-MDA correlation in the combined group (I+II) is related to the high anticorrelation between these parameters and the significantly higher average value of TAA in the low-risk group (II) in comparison to the high-risk group (I). Conclusion The results analysis indicates both the diagnostic value of redox status indicators and their leading role in the atherogenesis processes. In populations with a high risk of atherosclerosis, monitoring of serum TAA is recommended.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2677
Objectives: Sunflower oil (SFO) is regularly employed for cosmetic, emollient and food frying purposes, the latter representing its foremost use globally. Therefore, full investigations of the molecular composition and quality of SFO products are a major requirement. In this study high-field 1H NMR analysis was employed to explore the molecular composition and authenticities of East African virgin (EAV) SFO products, particularly their acylglycerol fatty acid contents, together with those of selected minor constituents. Results acquired were statistically compared to those obtained on commercially-available, EU-approved refined SFO products via NMR-linked multivariate chemometrics strategies. Methodology: High-field 1H NMR spectra of EAV and refined SFOs (n = 55 and 4 respectively) were acquired at an operating frequency of 400 MHz. Their triacylglycerol fatty acid, triacylglycerol hydrolysis product, and sterol and stanol contents were determined via intelligent frequency bucketing and electronic integration of selected resonances. Univariate analysis-of-variance, and multivariate ROC curve evaluations were conducted to determine the magnitude and statistical significance of analyte concentration differences between these two sample classifications. Further multivariate NMR-linked chemometrics analyses such as principal component, random forest and support vector machine classification analyses were also utilised for this purpose. Key Results: Multicomponent 1H NMR analysis demonstrated that EAV SFOs had significantly higher and lower contents of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), respectively, than those of refined SFOs. Furthermore, significantly higher concentrations of ‘health-friendly’, cholesterol-blocking sterols and stanols were also found in these virgin SFO products. Major Conclusions: 1H NMR analysis provides much valuable molecular information regarding the composition and virginal status of SFOs.The high [MUFA]:[PUFA] content ratio of unrefined EAV SFO products renders them more suitable and safer for commercial or domestic deep-frying episodes than refined SFOs (MUFAs are much more resistant to thermally-induced peroxidation than PUFAs). These products also potentially offer valuable health benefits in view of their high natural sterol and stanol contents.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-19-2683
Ramadan fasting might be beneficial for digestive health, if appetite control and balanced diet is achieved. In this study we aimed to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on thyroid glands and some biochemical parameters in Turkish people living in Yozgat region. A total of 40 healthy subjects (20 men and 20 women) aged between 21-50 years were randomly recruited. Thyroid nodule volumes, thyroid hormones, body weights, glucose, total Cholesterol (TC), and oxidant stress index (OSI) were measured before Ramadan and at the end of Ramadan. There were beneficial changes in blood parameters and thyroid volumes, after one month of fasting during Ramadan compared with baseline. The Ramadan fasting might affect the radiological and biochemical parameters in healthy Turkish subjects. To improve the favorable digestive health in Ramadan fasting, diet and lifestyle modifications such as, increased intake of healthy foods and physical exercises might be recommended.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-18-2507
Hydroxypropyl β-Cyclodextrin (HPBCD) used in food, pharmaceutical, chemical industries, as well as environmental, and agriculture engineering. But the major issue related to HPBCD is the low solubility profile. In this study, the influence of the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment (the Trivedi Effect®) on the physicochemical properties of HPBCD was evaluated using spectroscopic and calorimetric analytical techniques. The test sample (HPBCD) was divided into control sample and treated sample. The control sample did not receive the Biofield Energy Treatment. Whereas, the treated sample received the Biofield Energy Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Dahryn Trivedi. The particle size values of the treated sample were decreased by 3.28%(d10), 1.36%(d50), 0.45%(d90), and 1.04%{D(4,3)}; therefore, the specific surface area was increased by 1.9% compared with the control sample. The evaporation temperature of the treated HPBCD sample was significantly decreased by 19.89%; however, the latent heat of evaporation and latent heat of fusion were significantly increased by 56.27% and 47.41%, respectively compared with the control sample.The total weight loss in the treated HPBCD was decreased by 5.11%; whereas, the residue amount was significantly 309.67% more compared to the control sample.The results indicated that the Trivedi Effect® might have produced a new form of HPBCD which may show better thermal stability, solubility, dissolution rate, and bioavailability. This new form of HPBCD would be more useful for improvement of solubility of the lipophilic drug, preparation of cholesterol free food products, weight loss supplements, anti-obesity medication, stabilize volatile and unstable compounds, and other manufacturing industry using it as a raw material.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.jom-18-2484
Obesity is associated with a number of serious medical complications, which are often referred to as the “insulin resistance syndrome”. The aim of the present study was performed to investigate the possible interaction between a conventional drug used for management of cholesterol and traditional herbal remedies on the obesity. This was carried through out: through estimation of blood test; Estimation of serum tests; Determination of oxidative stress biomarkers and the antioxidant enzymes activities in the liver were assayed; Histopathological examination of the liver and kidney of adult male albino rats were done. In the present study, the serum levels of the total protein and albumin in the obesity group (7.1± 0.2) and (4.78 ± 0.19); respectively were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) more than those of the control group (6.5±0.1) and (3.95± 0.1).The administration of (fennel group) revealed significant (P<0.05) decrease in the serum levels of the albumin and total protein (4.38± 0.1) and (6.65± 0.2); respectively as compared to the obesity group (4.78 ± 0.19) and (7.1± 0.2(. The total cholesterol of the group(5) (fennel and ator) after two weeks from a high fat diet than treatment with fennel and Ator through six weeks equal 142.86±5.9, 100.4±8.68, 93.29±5.99, 87.1±11.28, 80.4±21.55, 78.1±6.7 and 77.1±6.87; respectively. The present study showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in the activities of ALT, AST and ALP in the obesity group which recorded as (60.5±11.45), (57.25±6.3) and (845.0±49.47); respectively as compared to the control group (28.25±1.7), (38.5±3.87) and (537.0±41.5); respectively. The fennel group caused significant decrease in the activities of these enzymes (41.0± 2.9), (42.25+3.2) and (717.75+48.6); respectively compared to the obesity group. Ator group showed a significant decrease in the activities of these enzymes (40.0±2.16), (42.5±3.1) and (679.25±41.16); respectively compared as obesity group. The activity of AlT, AST and ALP in the fennel and ator group (32.75±2.5), (40.5±2.38) and (601.25±17.5); respectively were near to the control group.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-18-2456
Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is now recognized not only for its importance in promoting bone health in children and adults, but also for its other health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as autoimmune diseases, common cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Ultraviolet radiation of the sun with wavelengths of 290-310 nm penetrates into the skin and converts 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which quickly transforms to vitamin D3. Vitamin D (D represents either D2 or D3) made in the skin or ingested through diet is biologically inert and requires two successive hydroxylations first in the liver on carbon 25 to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH)D and then in the kidney for a hydroxylation on carbon 1 to form the biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) 121419. The concentration of the produced 25-hydroxy vitamin D in blood circulation is 1,000 times more than 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D 4, and it is regarded as a standard indicator of vitamin D status in humans 3. 25-hydroxy vitamin D half-life is about 2-3 weeks and it is regulated by calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) to some extent. 25-hydroxy vitamin D content also reflects the amount of vitamin D produced in the skin after exposure to sunlight or received through food intake 56. Guidelines for vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency defined by serum 25(OH)D concentrations have been published from many countries and regions all over the world 7891011. Vitamin D deficiency is a pandemic problem. According to global estimations, more than one billion people around the world suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Among Iranian population, the incidence of vitamin D deficiency varies from 2.5 to 98.5% based on geographic area 1213. Various factors may give rise to vitamin D deficiency, including skin pigments, low levels of vitamin D in diet (insufficient fish oil and egg yolk intake), malnutrition, genetic factors, exclusive breast feeding, vitamin D deficiency of mother during pregnancy, prematurity, chronic use of drugs (e.g., anticonvulsants, aluminum-containing anti-acids, rifampcin, isoniazid, antifungal drugs, antiviral drugs, and glucocorticoids), winter and obesity 113. Cultural habits, the need for full body coverage during outdoor activities and the lack of sunlight programs are the risk factors for low vitamin D levels in women 151617. Children enter foster care due to early childhood adverse experiences such as poor prenatal and infant health care, food insecurity, chronic stress, and the effects of abuse and neglect. As a result, they are at higher risk for poor physical, psychological, neuroendocrine and neurocognitive outcomes compared to others. Foster children are at risk for growth and nutritional deficiencies due to their poor nutritional environment prior to placement in foster care. Insufficient caloric intake results in growth deficiencies. Evidence showed that the risk of stunting and underweight is high in this population 18. The risk of developing hypovitaminosis D was significantly higher in children living in foster homes. One reason is that they are at higher risk of child abuse, emotional deprivation and physical neglect than children living with their families. Moreover, these children most likely do not spend much time outdoors and they lack adequate sun exposure. Another reason is that as children grow up in institutional care, they shift from a diet of vitamin D–fortified formula milk to cooked food, which may not be fortified with vitamin D 1. Iranian government has made some efforts to apply efficient interventions to reduce the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, and the country’s healthcare system should be managed through accurate planning. Yet, in this country, studies on vitamin D deficiency in children living in foster homes are very limited, and given that timely diagnosis and treatment of this deficiency is vital, this research is conducted in Ali Asghar foster home in Mashhad, Iran.
Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-18-2341
The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the safety of a stem bark aqueous extract of Harunganamadagascariensis Lam. (Hypericaceae) by determining its potential toxicity after acute and subacute administration in rodents. Acute toxicity tests were carried out in mice and the behavior, death and median lethal dose (LD50) were estimated. Subacute toxicity (28 days) studies were conducted in rats with oral daily doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg. Parameters observed at the end of the subacute tests included changes in body and vital organ weights, mortality, hematological, biochemical, hepatic and kidney effects. Harunganamadagascariensisextract did not produce any visible toxicity or mortality with oral doses up to 2000 mg/kg within 14 days of single treatment, leading to the conclusion that the LD50 is greater than 2000 mg/kg. In the subacute toxicity tests, neither mortality nor visible signs of lethality was seen in rats. No significant change in the weight of the kidney, liver, heart, lungs spleen, pancreas and testicles was observed. Alanine transaminase (ALT) increased significantly in males at 400 and 600 mg/kg, whereas Aspartate transaminase (AST) decreased at 600 mg/kg in female rats. HDL Cholesterol was reduced at 600 mg/kg in female rats. There was a significant increase in urea concentration in female rats at 400 mg/kg. A significant decrease, both in platelet volume distribution (PVD) at 400 mg/kg in male rats and in red cell volume distribution (RDW) at 200 mg/kg were recorded in female rats respectively, but with no changes in other hematologic parameters. Histological study shows normal structure of liver, kidneys and heart of control and treated rats. Results indicate that oral doses of aqueous stem bark of Harunganamadagascariensis are relatively safe in rats; however, assessment of hepatobiliary function should be done during chronic use in humans.
May 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-18-2122
Membrane dynamics in the presynaptic region of the neuron is a key process of neuronal signal transduction. Dynamin plays a central part during endocytosis participating in the deformation of membrane structure and constriction. During the study of molecular interaction of presynaptic proteins, we found that dynamin fraction prepared from brain extract contains several lipid components. Fractionation of lipids with thin layer chromatography and mass-analysis showed the presence of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, cerebroside, cholesterol and its-derivatives, and triacylglycerol. Since the GTPase activity of bacterially expressed dynamin was activated by the extracted lipid fraction, lipid components that affect the GTPase activity of dynamin was screened and cerebroside, hydroxycholesterols, cholesterol, and triacylglycerol were found to activate the GTPase activity. This result not only suggests the possibility that several neutral lipids participate in the membrane dynamics, but also revealed the possibility that a protein fraction contains lipid components even if its purity was confirmed with SDS-PAGE.
Mar 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-1716.jn-18-1993
Cardiovascular disease and lung cancer are two of the most common causes of death in the United States. The cardioprotective benefits of statin class drugs is predominantly mediated through the inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase, decreasing available mevalonate, and thus limiting in vivo cholesterol biosynthesis. Mevalonate and its metabolites have significant roles in cellular membrane synthesis, which is dysregulated during tumorigenesis, and is therefore a potential source for anti-tumor effects of statins. Similarly, dysregulation of cellular signaling is a hallmark of tumorigenesis. In vitro studies of EGFR, RAS, and AKT signaling pathways in cancer cells can all be reformed back to states more indicative of normally functioning cells when treated with statins. Statins have also been shown to exert beneficial properties in the presence of chemotherapeutic medications and radiation therapies by modulating the deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species, decreasing tumor cell resistance, and minimizing damage to surrounding native tissues. There is abundant of in vitro evidence to support the beneficial effects of statins on lung cancer patients. Prospective studies to determine the value of statin therapy on lung cancer prevention could lead to a significant change in lung cancer treatment.
Jan 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-17-1850
Obesity has become a serious health issue worldwide. There is much evidence that obesity among adolescents contributed to worsening blood biochemical profile that leads to development of many non-communicable diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of some central obesity anthropometric indicators to metabolic risk factors in the Syrian male adolescents. A cross-sectional study of a randomly selected sample of 2064 apparently healthy Syrian males’ adolescents from Damascus city, Syria, aged 18 to 19 years was performed. Waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC) were measured, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHpR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were calculated. Blood pressure (BP) was also measured. Serum fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), total cholesterol (Chol) were determined. The metabolic risk factors components were defined according to the national criterion. A receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were drawn to determine appropriate cut-off points of the WC, HC, WHpR and WHtR for defining the performance of these measurements as predictors of metabolic risk factors. The obtained data showed that BP and overall concentrations of TG, Chol and TG/HDL were significantly (p<0.05) increased with increasing WC, HC, WHpR and WHtR values. Based on ROC calculation for the measured anthropometric indicators and some metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors, the best WC HC, WHpR, WHtR cut-offs values were ranged between 73.15 - 79.90 cm, 93.75 - 101.10 cm, 0.80 - 0.81, and 0.43 and 0.47, respectively. These cut-off values were lower than the values recommended by the WHO. In conclusion: A significant association between the studied anthropometric indicators and the MetS components has been demonstrated. The best cut-offs of these indicators were defined. These cut-off values were lower than the values recommended by the WHO. Our results indicating that WC, WHpR and WHtR could be better predictors of MetS risk factors in Syrian adolescents.
Nov 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-17-1816
Background: Disorders of lipid metabolism are manifested by elevation of the plasma concentration of the various lipid and lipoprotein fractions and the result, predominantly cardiovascular diseases. Lipid research clinic’s coronary primary prevention trial has provided useful information on the reduction of plasma cholesterol level in hyperlipidemic subjects by diet and drug therapy and thus the reduction in risk of myocardial infarction and death. Conventional lipid lowering drugs are used for lowering lipid level. But in the last few years’ herbal drugs are gaining popularity in the management of hyperlipidemia. In this study we compare the hypolipidemic effect of MomordicaCharantia (MC) with atorvastatin, a commonly used hypolipidemic drug. Methods: The present experimental study was done in the pharmacology department of Dhaka Medical College during the period of July, 2011 to June, 2012. For this study a total number of 30 Norwegian rats of either sex were selected. They were divided into 5 groups each comprises of 6 rats. In the experiment group A was given normal diet with high fatty diet (1.5 ml olive oil plus 1% cholesterol) which was control group and other experimental groups (B,C,D,) were allowed to feed a high fatty diet along with fresh juice of MomordicaCharantia (in different doses) for 10 days. Another experimental group, E was given high fatty diet along with atorvastatin (0.14mg/kg/day) for 10 days. Rats were sacrificed on 11th day and blood was collected by cardiac puncture for estimation of serum lipid profile. Results: After administration of fatty diet in group A for 10 days, there was significant increased total cholesterol (TCL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride (TG) levels. Concomitant administration of fatty diet and fresh juice of MC (in different doses) daily for 10 days in group B,C,D reduced serum TCL, LDL and TG levels which was more significant in higher doses in comparison to atorvastatin given group E. Conclusion: The present study provides a rationale for use a new herbal medicine much needed for the reduction of serum lipid levels.MomordicaCharantia could be useful in hyperlipidemic conditions. They are as effective as a standard lipid lowering agent- atorvastatin.
Jun 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-17-1439
The effectiveness of atorvastatin calcium in lowering cholesterol is dose-related. It is available in 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg film coated tablets. In order to ensure quality, safety and efficacy of tablets in formulations, the objective of this presented work was to develop a new high performance liquid chromatographic-UV method for quantitation of active atorvastatin calcium in pharmaceutical formulations. The method was based on reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatographic-UV separation of atorvastatin at detection wavelength of 246 nm using Acclaim 120 C18 reversed phase LC column (5 mm, 250×4.6 mm) with mobile phase of acetonitrile-dichloromethane-acetic acid (68.6: 30.6: 0.8 v/v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL min-1 at 25°C. Different variables affecting chromatographic separation were carefully studied and optimized. The study results provided chromatogram of atorvastatin with retention time of 2.68 min. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration range of 15-300 mg mL-1. No interference was observed from common pharmaceutical excipients present in dosage forms. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of atorvastatin calcium in pharmaceutical formulations and proved to be significantly not different with reference method. The proposed can be used as an alternate method for routine quality control analysis of active atorvastatin in research, hospitals and pharmaceutical laboratories.
Apr 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-15-704
Objective: Statins are highly effective medications for reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations and cardiovascular events. Their most common side effects are a variety of myopathic complaints, possibly due to reduced circulating Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) levels. We sought to determine whether CoQ10 supplementation decreases the rate of myalgia in patients with statin-related myalgia. Methods: Patients treated with a statin for clinical indications who reported statin induced myalgia were eligible. Patients were randomized to treatment with CoQ10 120 mg/day (17 patients) or placebo (20 patients) in a double-blind manner. Treatment was continued for 12 weeks. All patients were instructed to continue taking their prescribed statin as usual. Myalgia score was assessed before intervention and then weekly, for 12 weeks of therapy, using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Results: Over 12 weeks of treatment, myalgia score gradually decreased in both the treatment group and placebo group to the same extent (from 6.2 to 3.3 in the treatment group and from 5.9 to 3.1 in the placebo group), without significant differences between the groups. No significant change was noted between the two groups in the number of patients tolerated statin therapy. Conclusions: CoQ10 does not appear to decrease the rate of myalgia when compared to placebo in patients with statin-related myalgia.
Oct 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-15-726
Background: A higher incidence of symptomatic lacunar infarction (LI) was confirmed in metropolitan areas. The aim of this study was to determinethe prevalence characteristics and early predictors of LI in a population of elderly outpatients in northern China. Methods: From February 2011 to March 2012, a retrospective cohort of new patients was selected for study, all registered neurologic outpatients of the tertiary teaching hospital in northern China. A total of 453 outpatients, clinically only having had an initial visit and a magnetic resonance imaging study of the brain, were enrolled. The prevalence characteristics and vascular risk factors of LI were assessed. Results: Of 453 symptomatic outpatients, 258(57.0%) patients had symptomatic LI. We found that the main types of symptomatic LI were nonfocal symptoms, such as dizziness and headache, dizziness/vertigo, and migraine/headache. Age, BMI, smoking, history of hypertension, duration of hypertension, existing hypertension, headache and dizziness, pure motor hemiparesis, blood glucose, hypercholesterolemia, systolic blood pressure, and ABCD2 score, were significantly higher in patients with LI than in those without LI (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that hypertension ≥3years in duration (odds ratio=1.092; 95% CI, 1.019 -1.170) and a median mABCD2 score ≥4 (odds ratio=3.912; 95% CI, 2.955- 5.180) were independent, early predictors of symptomatic LI. Conclusions: The incidence of LI in Northern China was located at the higher end of range in northern China, and common type of symptomatic LI was nonfocal symptoms. Hypertension of long duration and high-risk ABCD2 scores are early predictors of symptomatic LI.
Jun 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-14-540
Objective Measuring coronary artery calcification (CAC) enables to optimize cardiovascular risk-stratification also in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), however the prevalence of CAC in randomly selected patients with T2D is uncertain. For this purpose we set out to examine and compare the occurrence of CAC in unselected T2D patients. Design A randomly selected cohort of 1825 individuals, men and women, either 50 or 60 years old, were invited to the screening study. Traditional risk factors were obtained and a non-contrast CT-scan was performed to assess the CAC score. Results A total of 1211 individuals participated, of whom 54 (4%) had T2D while 1157 (96%) were without diabetes. CAC was present in 62% of the patients with T2D versus 44% in those without (p=0.013). Also the prevalence of traditionally risk factors was high in patients with T2D as compared to subjects without T2D. When adjusting for age, gender, smoking, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia in multivariate logistic regression, T2D was not associated with presence of CAC (OR=1.0; 95% confidence interval 0.5 - 2.0, p=0.94). Conclusions One-third of patients with T2D did not have any CAC, and T2D per se was not associated to CAC.
Nov 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-12-154
Objective: To determine whether age at menarche is an independent predictor of common carotid artery intima-media thickness in overweight and obese adult women. Methods: 403 overweight and obese women, aged 18–72 years, were evaluated. We examined the associations among common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT), age at menarche, body mass index, central fat accumulation (indirectly measured by waist circumference), and other well-known cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure; fasting serum insulin, glucose and lipids concentrations; insulin resistance (estimated by homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance)). Results: CCA-IMT was significantly and positively correlated with age (r=0.632, p<0.001), age of menarche (r=0.156, p<0.01), waist circumference (r=0.110, p<0.05), systolic (r=0.292, p<0.001) and diastolic (r=0.183, p<0.001) blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (r=0.265, p<0.001), triglycerides (r=0.204, p<0.001) and total cholesterol (r=0.396, p<0.001) levels. Conversely, CCA-IMT was negatively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r=-0.111, p<0.05). Age at menarche was associated with CCA-IMT (r=0.156, p<0.01), age (r=0.110, p<0.05) and waist circumference (r=0.121, p<0.05). Multiple linear analysis showed that only age and age at menarche maintained an independent positive relationship with the CCA-IMT. Conclusions: Age at menarche is positively associated with CCA-IMT, independently of common cardiovascular risk factors (adverse glucose and lipid levels, higher blood pressure,insulin resistance, body fatness and central body fat). Late age at menarche can be considered as an independent cardiovascular risk factor in obese subjects.