Alternative Treatment Method Research Articles

Research on Music Therapy for Dementia Patients

Music therapy is a new and mature frontier discipline. Based on the theory and method of psychotherapy, it employs the special physical and mental function of music to help patients, under the guidance of a music therapist, overcome psychological obstacles and improve mental and physical well-being. With the ongoing aging of the population, the number of Alzheimer's disease diagnoses is expected to rise. In the management of dementia among the elderly, music therapy stands out as a valuable non-pharmacological approach, impacting cognition, emotion, and behavior positively. Currently, the application of musical interventions for alleviating cognitive and behavioral symptoms in dementia patients has gained widespread acceptance as an alternative treatment method, with many positive results being achieved. This study explores the therapeutic development of music therapy in treating Alzheimers disease. The main reason music can regulate emotions is that it can trigger emotional reactions and affect an individual's emotional state through various physiological and psychological mechanisms. This article synthesizes existing literature to find that music therapy has specific therapeutic effects on patients, including memory improvement, enhanced cognitive function, and emotional restoration, and presents practical examples of its implementation.

Ovariohysterectomy in Cat as An Alternative Handling of Fetus Mummification Cases

Fetal mummification is a rare and challenging condition in cats that requires immediate intervention to mitigate potential risks to the mother and future pregnancies. This case study presents the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of Pawpaw, a cat diagnosed with fetal mummification. Ovariohysterectomy was performed as an alternative treatment method to address the critical condition of the cat. The diagnosis was established based on various factors, including indications, anamnesis, clinical symptoms, clinical examination, clinical findings, and investigative results. Diagnostic confirmation was achieved through blood haematology tests and ultrasound examinations. The therapeutic approach consisted of administering a combination of normal saline fluid therapy, glycerin, ondansetron, ceftriaxone, intramox, doxycycline, acetylcysteine, sakatonic liver, vitamins, ventolin, Tripura, meloxicam, impacting, and furosemide. Anesthesia during the ovariohysterectomy procedure involved the use of atropine sulfate, xylazine, and ketamine. Despite the extensive medical intervention, the cat, Bimbim, succumbed to its critical condition during the surgery. This case study highlights the importance of early diagnosis and prompt intervention in cases of feline fetal mummification. Ovariohysterectomy proved to be a viable alternative treatment option, although the critical condition of the cat posed significant challenges to its successful outcome. Further research and enhanced understanding of fetal mummification in cats are essential to improve the management and prognosis of this condition.

EFFECT OF ACUPUNCTURE ON OCULAR HEMODYNAMICS AND RETINAL ELECTROGENESIS IN RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA

Purpose – to study the electrophysiological parameters of the retina and hemodynamic parameters in the ocular vessels in patients with different stages of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) before and after acupuncture (AP), and to conduct a comparative and correlation analysis of the results. Materials and methods 75 patients (150 eyes) aged 25-44 years with a diagnosis of RP were examined. Three stages of RP were identified: initial, moderate and severe stages. In addition to routine ophthalmologic examinations, electroretinography (ERG) and color Doppler imaging (CDI) were performed. The course of therapy for patients consisted of 10 AP sessions. The studies were conducted before the AP course and 2 weeks after its completion. Results Hemodynamic and electrophysiological studies revealed statistically significant disturbances before AP in all groups of patients. After the treatment, positive dynamics were revealed in patients of groups 1 and 2, and no significant changes were found in group 3. Conclusion Thus, CDI of the ocular vessels is an additional informative and non-invasive method that, along with ERG, can be used in PR for prognosis, severity assessment and treatment control. AP may be considered as an alternative treatment method in patients with early and moderate stages of PR. Key words: retinitis pigmentosa, color Doppler imaging, electroretinography, acupuncture

Emerging Phytochemical Formulations for Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a T-cell-mediated chronic inflammatory disorder affecting 0.5-1% of the global population. The disease with unknown etiology causes slow destruction of joints, advancing to significant deterioration of an individual's quality of life. The present treatment strategy comprises the use of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) coupled with or without nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or glucocorticoids. Additionally, involves co-therapy of injectable biological DMARDs in case of persistent or recurrent arthritis. The availability of biological DMARDs and the implementation of the treat-to-target approach have significantly improved the outcomes for patients suffering from RA. Nevertheless, RA requires continuous attention due to inadequate response of patients, development of tolerance and severe side effects associated with long-term use of available treatment regimens. An estimated 60-90% of patients use alternative methods of treatment, such as herbal therapies, for the management of RA symptoms. Over the past few decades, researchers have exploring natural phytochemicals to alleviate RA and associated symptoms. Enormous plant-origin phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and polyphenols have shown anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity against RA. However, phytochemicals have certain limitations, such as high molecular weight, poor water solubility, poor permeability, poor stability and extensive first-pass metabolism, limiting absorption and bioavailability. The use of nanotechnology has aided to extensively improve the pharmacokinetic profile and stability of encapsulated drugs. The current review provides detailed information on the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals. Furthermore, the review focuses on developed phytochemical formulations for RA, with emphasis on clinical trials, regulatory aspects, present challenges, and future prospects.

Titanium dioxide-induced fibrotic liver model and the therapeutic effect of resveratrol by modulation of α-SMA and 8-oHdG expressions, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

The research sought to assess the therapeutic impact of resveratrol by biochemical, immunohistochemical, and histopathological analyses in a TiO2-induced liver fibrosis model. Titanium dioxide (100 mg/kg body weight) was delivered for 15 days to induce liver fibrosis, either alone or in conjunction with resveratrol (30 mg/kg body weight) therapy for the same duration. Resveratrol has been identified as a crucial therapeutic drug that provides an alternative treatment method for TiO2-induced liver fibrosis by mitigating inflammation, oxidative stress, and the expressions of α-SMA and 8-OHdG. Resveratrol treatment mitigated TiO2-induced liver fibrosis by repairing hepatocellular injury and decreasing plasma AST, ALT, and ALP levels. Resveratrol improves the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), crucial enzymes for antioxidant defense, and elevates glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels, so augmenting antioxidant function. Furthermore, resveratrol decreased hepatic inflammation (IL-6 and IL-1β) and oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, histological alterations and immunohistochemistry expression of α-SMA and 8-OhdG were reinstated after resveratrol administration in the TiO2-induced liver fibrosis model. Our research indicates that resveratrol administration effectively protects against liver fibrosis produced by TiO2.

Evaluation of the Effects of Ozone and Laser Therapy on the Healing Process in Extraction Sites of Rats Treated with Zoledronic Acid

Bisphosphonates are a class of drugs extensively used in the management of numerous conditions. In patients with bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws, surgical interventions on bone tissue often exacerbate the condition. Alternative treatment methods, including laser and ozone therapies, are being explored to mitigate the adverse effects of bisphosphonates. Our study was a prospective, randomized, and controlled trial. Total of 80 female Wistar rats were utilized in the study. The animals were divided into five groups. Rats were measured for intravenous zoledronic acid administration. Histopathological evaluations were conducted to assess new bone formation and inflammation intensity within the extraction sockets. While there is a statistically significant difference between the groups regarding ossification rates on the 7th day, there is no statistically significant difference between the groups on the 14th day. At the end of the seventh day, no statistically significant difference in inflammation scores. At the end of the 14th day, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups regarding inflammation scores. These findings suggest that laser and ozone therapies enhance new bone formation over the long term and mitigate the adverse effects of bisphosphonates in rats.

A novel and alternative treatment method for moderate diabetic foot ulcer: tibial periosteal distraction

ObjectiveResearchers have proposed a novel surgical treatment for moderate diabetic foot ulcer: tibial periosteal distraction (TPD) which could improve affected limb microcirculation. We aimed to describe the method and therapeutic effects of this technique.MethodsWe provided a technical guide to perform TPD surgery for the treatment of moderate diabetic foot ulcer of who had been treated in our department. The demographic information had been collected at the time of their admission. The patients were followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months after the operation with the ulcer area, skin temperature of the medial malleolus, transcutaneous oxygen pressure of the medial malleolus, ankle brachial index, dorsalis pedis artery pulsation, 12 item short form survey quality of life scale score, and visual analogue scale.ResultsA total of 35 patients with type 2 diabetes were included in this study, including 19 males and 16 females, with an average age of 62.49 ± 10.34 years and a maximum age of 87 years. The ulcers of all patients were cured, and the average healing time of ulcers was 8.09 ± 2.28 weeks, with no associated complications. The microcirculation indexes of the affected foot were significantly improved (p < 0.05). Three cases showed new vessels regeneration in the affected limbs according to their computed tomography angiography (CTA) results.ConclusionTPD surgery technique is a simple procedure that significantly increases the efficacy and reduces the complications of moderate diabetic foot ulcer patients, which could accelerate the formation of collateral circulation.

USE OF THE DEVICE FOR HOLDING THE END OF THE LIGHT LASER IN THE ORAL CAVITY DURING PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC GENERALIZED PERIODONTITIS

Modern medicine is developed and focused on various non-invasive alternative treatment methods of generalized periodontitis (GP), that don’t lead to side effects. One of the promising methods of treatment of generalized periodontitis is photodynamic therapy (PDT). The advantages of PDT in periodontal therapy include its non-invasiveness, ability to target specific pathogens without promoting bacterial resistance. The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of using a device to hold the end of a light laser in the oral cavity during PDT in patients with chronic GP. Materials and methods. We examined 30 patients with GP of the II degree of severity. Patients were divided into 2 groups: patients of the main group underwent PDT using a device for holding the end of a light laser, patients of the control group received PDT without using that device. We developed and patented a patent for utility model No. 156529 "Device for holding the end of a light laser in the oral cavity", which was used to carry out this stage of work. The results. Patients from both experimental groups noted a significant improvement in the condition of the gums after the procedure, which indicates the effectiveness of the PDT as such. The device for holding the end of the light laser is ergonomic and allows the procedure itself to be carried out faster and with better quality, as it provides better visibility and provides full access to the periodontal pockets. In addition, its use significantly reduces the time of the procedure for patients. Conclusions. The device for holding the end of the light laser is ergonomic, ensures smooth and stable bringing of the end of the laser LED to any point of the oral cavity and allows the procedure itself to be carried out faster and with better quality, as it provides better visibility and provides full access to the periodontal pockets. Advantage of this device is that it allows the doctor to precisely introduce the laser LED into the periodontal pocket with additional cushioning. The perspective of the research is to further study the action and effect of PDT on the condition of the gums in GP.

Effects of Sacroiliac Joint Manipulation on Autonomic Nervous System and Lower Abdominal Pain in Women with Primary Dysmenorrhoea: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and Objectives: Autonomic nervous system (ANS) disorders are responsible for primary dysmenorrhea and are closely linked to the spine. This study aims to evaluate the effects of sacroiliac joint manipulation on the ANS and lower abdominal pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea and proposes an alternative treatment method. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 participants were randomly assigned; however, 35 participants remained in the final analysis after 5 dropped out; they were assigned to either the sacroiliac joint manipulation group (n = 18) or the superficial heat therapy group (n = 17). Assessments included heart rate variability (HRV), visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for lower abdominal pain, the pressure pain threshold (PPT) of the sacroiliac joint, and the Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MMDQ) at baseline and after 4 weeks. Only the VAS and MMDQ scores were reassessed after 8 weeks to evaluate the sustained effects of the treatment. Results: Changes in HRV showed improvements in ANS balance only in the sacroiliac joint manipulation group (p < 0.05). It was found to be more effective than superficial heat therapy (p < 0.05). A significant decrease in lower abdominal pain following the intervention was observed in both groups (p < 0.05), along with the sustained effects of the treatment (p < 0.05). The MMDQ scores decreased after sacroiliac joint manipulation (p < 0.05), with greater improvements compared to the superficial heat therapy (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Sacroiliac joint manipulation positively affects ANS balance and is effective in alleviating lower abdominal pain and menstruation-related symptoms, with sustained effects observed over time. Therefore, sacroiliac joint manipulation can be an effective alternative treatment for women with primary dysmenorrhea.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Overcome Key Challenges in Psychedelic Research and Therapy.

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers transformative potential in psychedelic research by addressing limitations in personalized treatment, predicting therapeutic outcomes, and understanding complex biological and environmental factors. AI-driven models provide new insights into long-term efficacy, set and setting optimization, and alternative treatment methods, advancing psychedelic therapy into personalized medicine.

Effects of Manual Therapy and Home Exercise Treatment on Pain, Stress, Sleep, and Life Quality in Patients with Bruxism: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of manual therapy (MT) and home exercise (HE) treatments on pain, sleep quality, stress level, and quality of life in patients with bruxism. Materials and Methods: The study included 30 bruxism patients ages 18-25 years who were randomly divided into the manual therapy group (MTG) and home exercise group (HEG). Before treatment (T1), all patients were asked to fill out the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), and Quality of Life Scale/Short Form-36 (SF-36), and additionally, the number of trigger points (NTP) and pain levels were determined. MT and HE were applied for 8 weeks, and all tests were repeated at the end of treatment (T2). A paired-samples t test was used for intra-group comparisons at T1 and T2, and an independent t test was used for inter-group comparisons. The statistical significance level was accepted as p < 0.05. Results: When the results obtained with MT and HE were examined after 8 weeks of treatment, a significant difference was found for all parameters (FAI, PSQI, PSS, SF-36, NTP, activity pain, and night pain levels, p < 0.05) except rest pain in HEG. According to the inter-group comparison, a significant difference was found in PSQI, FAI, and NTP (p < 0.05). However, it was determined that both groups showed statistically similar effects in terms of pain, perceived stress, and quality of life (p > 0.05). Conclusions: MT and HE reduce perceived stress and pain intensity and also improve quality of life and sleep in patients with bruxism. HE is as effective as MT in terms of pain, stress quality of life. MT is more effective than HE in improving sleep quality and TMD symptoms. Both manual therapy and home exercise applications can be applied as alternative treatment methods in the treatment of bruxism.

TREATMENT METHODS FOR BITUMEN POLLUTED WATER(BPW) - A REVIEW

This review is set to answer the question about current and alternative treatment methods available for treating Bitumen000. 12021Polluted Water (BPW). Bitumen is a complex form of hydrocarbon with a higher viscosity than crude oil preventing it from flowing under natural conditions. BPW is formed due to bitumen seepage from underground reservoirs causing contamination of land and waterbodies in areas where the deposit is untapped. Another wastewater from bitumen is the Bitumen Wastewater (BWW) which is formed from bitumen extraction and processing, though this review centered on bitumen-polluted water BPW, studies revealed that BWW exhibits similar characteristics of floatable solids, high levels of salt and taste, colour, hardness of water, high Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) levels, toxic metals: lead, cadmium and dissolved petroleum hydrocarbons: Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylene (BTEX). It has been reported that these pollutants were recalcitrant, persistent in biodegradation, and required many years to denature. This review summarized treatment methods for bitumen polluted water and by extension BWW from five aspects, which contain flotation, filtration, coagulation, biological treatment, and combined technology. Further, it addressed modifying the existing Bitumen Polluted Water Treatment System (BPWTS) with the possibility of scaling it up to treat more volume of BPW to meet water treatment demand in the bitumen-rich areas.

Antimicrobial Effect of Drinkable Lugol Solution

The death rates due to infection in patients receiving long-term antibiotic treatment and hospitalized patients are quite alarming. Treatment of multidrug-resistant strains of Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, which cause widespread nosocomial infection, has become a global problem. Alternative treatment methods are needed for these species, which use all their resistance mechanisms day by day. Recently, it has been seen that iodine (lugol) solution has been used in the treatment of many infections. Significant results are observed, especially for nosocomial and wound infections. The literature on the antimicrobial effect of Lugol solution is very limited. In order to scientifically support such treatments, we aimed to investigate the antimicrobial effect of lugol on resistant bacteria in a laboratory environment. In our laboratory, we have previously isolated Acinetobacter baumannii, Shigella sonneii, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains with known antibiotic resistance. For these isolates, the agar dilution method prepared with different concentrations of lugol and the Broth Microdilution Method were used. As a result of our study, it was observed that drinkable Lugol solution affects multidrug-resistant microorganisms at very low concentrations. Thus, Lugol's success in infection treatments will be scientifically supported.

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration as an alternative method of treatment for Adventitial Cystic Disease: A case series

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration as an alternative method of treatment for Adventitial Cystic Disease: A case series

Multiomics analysis of Staphylococcus aureus ST239 strains resistant to virulent Herelleviridae phages

In the context of the antimicrobial therapy crisis, the significance of studying and implementing alternative treatment methods, particularly phage therapy, is increasingly evident. This study aimed to investigate the resistance of clinical Staphylococcus aureus ST239 strains to Herelleviridae phages through comparative genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Analysis of resistant and sensitive S. aureus strains showed that resistant strains form a separate cluster on the phylogenetic tree, suggesting unique genetic traits underlying their phage resistance. Further in-depth analysis of the resistant SA191 strain infected with Herelleviridae phage, compared to an uninfected control, unveiled significant changes in the transcription of 462 genes (271↑ 191↓) at 5 min and 504 genes (276↑ 228↓) at 30 min post-infection. Proteomic analysis identified 184 differentially abundant proteins (41↑ 143↓) at 30 min. Functional analysis highlighted changes in the glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and transport systems; notable, changes were also observed in the transcription of prophage genes. Despite the observed metabolic shifts, classical resistance mechanisms related to teichoic acid synthesis, restriction-modification, and toxin-antitoxin systems were not identified, suggesting the existence of other mechanism. Our study contributes to the elucidation of S. aureus resistance mechanisms against Herelleviridae phages, highlighting the intricate nature of bacterial defense mechanisms.

Transarterial embolization of renal cell carcinoma (modern review)

Currently, renal cell carcinoma is one of the most common malignant neoplasms, the main treatment method of which is surgery. However, surgical treatment in some cases may be accompanied by deterioration of renal function, which dictates the need to search for alternative treatment methods. This review examines the possibilities of a minimally invasive, radiosurgical procedure – transarterial embolization of the renal arteries in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma. Options for performing this procedure and indications for them are given, the results of using transarterial embolization of the renal arteries for renal cell carcinoma are analyzed, and possible complications are described. The advantages of the method are indicated. The need for further large-scale scientific research devoted to studying the effectiveness and safety of transarterial embolization of the renal artery for renal cell carcinoma is urgent.

When blood is not an option. The awareness of bloodless medicine among Polish nurses

ObjectivesBlood transfusions (BTs) are generally safe and potentially life-saving but come with risks. The World Health Organization advocates reducing unnecessary transfusions and using patient blood management strategies and techniques. However, providing bloodless medical care to patients who prefer to avoid blood-related treatments is a challenge. This is because healthcare professionals’ beliefs about blood transfusion may not align with those of their patients. This study delves into Polish nursing personnel's attitudes toward bloodless medicine (BM), highlighting the potential gap between their knowledge and patient needs. MethodsWe conducted an online survey amongst 202 Polish nurses on non-blood management techniques, risks related to BT and BM, and nurses’ educational needs regarding BM. ResultsAlthough many nurses had some knowledge of BM, Polish nurses’ awareness of non-blood management techniques is relatively low: while less than half knew alternative treatment methods and drugs used in BM, many were unaware of the various risks or side effects related to BM. It also shows that more than three-quarters of nurses believed that patients should have the right to make an informed refusal of BT. While 87.1 % of nurses rated their knowledge about BM insufficient or very poor, 66.3 % did not feel prepared to care for patients who require non-blood management techniques. ConclusionsThis study underscores the urgent need to educate nurses on blood conservation methods, blood substitutes, and techniques of non-blood management. Incorporating these into the nursing curriculum is crucial for patients’ safety and well-being and our healthcare system's effectiveness. The potential, impact of these findings on the healthcare system is significant, underlining the urgency and importance of addressing the knowledge gap in non-blood management techniques. Public interest summaryAlthough the World Health Organization recommends using non-blood management techniques, most nurses providing bloodless medical care to patients who wish to avoid blood transfusion do not feel prepared to care for such patients. This study describes the attitudes of Polish nursing personnel toward bloodless medicine. It demonstrates that Polish nurses do not possess knowledge of non-blood management techniques, and their awareness of patient blood management methods and drugs used in bloodless medicine is low. However, it also reveals a positive aspect: Most Polish nurses are interested in broadening their knowledge of bloodless medicine. This strong motivation to improve their skills and knowledge in this area is encouraging and should be harnessed to drive positive change in the field of bloodless medicine.

Phytoremediation of microcystins using Myriophyllum aquaticum can prevent sublethal effects in a Neotropical freshwater catfish

Microcystins are cyanotoxins that can be produced by cyanobacteria species such as Microcystis aeruginosa. Due to the presence of microcystins in water bodies and aquatic organisms, it needs to be monitored. Furthermore, additional studies are required in the implementation of alternative and sustainable water treatment methods. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of Myriophyllum aquaticum to prevent the harmful effects induced by M. aeruginosa aqueous extract in Rhamdia. quelen usingbiomarkers and to assess whether the plant can be suitable for phytoremediation in aquatic ecosystems. In the first experiment, R. quelen was exposed to 1 and 10 μg.L–1 of microcystins through an aqueous extract dissolved in the bioassay’s water. Second, tanks containing the same test concentrations of microcystins were treated by phytoremediation using M. aquaticum at 10 g.L–1, for 7 days. After that, treated water was used in a new bioassay with fish exposure. The results showed that phytoremediation decreased the microcystin concentration in water, and different biomarker analyses demonstrated that M. aquaticum treatment prevented DNA damage, hematological alterations, and tissue damage in R. quelen. The phytoremediation with M. aquaticum can be a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to water treatment, highlighting its role in enhancing water quality and supporting biodiversity conservation. These results support the importance of adopting more restrictive legal limits for cyanotoxins in water to protect native aquatic species and promote sustainable water resource management.

Mesenchymal Stem Extracellular Vesicles in Various Respiratory Diseases: A New Opportunity.

Lung diseases are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, thereby jeopardizing human health and imposing a great burden on society. Currently, lung diseases are mainly treated with medications, oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation, but these approaches are unable to effectively reduce the mortality rate. Therefore, lung transplantation remains the ultimate treatment for various chronic lung diseases, but this treatment is also hindered by the limited availability of lung sources, immature technology and a low survival rate after transplantation. With constant changes in the environment, pathogens, type and amount of harmful substances and the prevalence of respiratory diseases, there is an urgent need to identify alternative treatment methods. Research on stem cell therapy has been very successful in recent years, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), together with their secretory bodies, play a significant therapeutic role. Extracellular vesicles of MSCs (MSC-EVs) are also major components of the paracrine secretion of MSCs, including exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, among which exosomes are the most typical. MSC-EVs are believed to be present in various tissues of the human body where they can carry proteins, DNA, RNA and biologically active factors, just to name a few. They can also transmit various biological signals to participate in different biological activities, including the maintenance of homeostasis within the tissue. Several studies have further demonstrated that MSCs and their generated extracellular vesicles play an important role in the treatment of diseases. In this paper, the origin, properties and roles of MSCs and MSC-EVs are reviewed, the mechanisms of different lung diseases, the limitations of current therapeutic options and the roles of MSC-EVs in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, asthma, infectious lung disease, lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and acute lung injury/ acute respiratory distress syndrome are also discussed (Figure 1). In addition, the current limitations and possible future research directions are also discussed in view of providing new ideas for the role of MSC-EVs in the treatment of lung diseases.

Interest in the Use of Herbal Supplements to Close the Treatment Gap for Hazardous Alcohol Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: Secondary Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Study.

Hazardous alcohol consumption is highly prevalent for men who have sex with men (MSM). The 4 treatments currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for alcohol use are reaching an alarmingly low percentage of people who would benefit from a reduction in their alcohol use. There is increasing interest in alternative methods of treatment, such as herbal supplements, to address hazardous drinking. However, research on the acceptability of alternative pharmacotherapies among MSM remains limited. We examined the prevalence and correlates of expressing interest in using herbal supplements for alcohol treatment among MSM with hazardous alcohol consumption. We conducted a secondary data analysis from a cross-sectional study of MSM who use alcohol, conducted from March 2015 to July 2017 in San Francisco, California, to assess the overall prevalence of interest in using herbal supplements to help reduce alcohol consumption. Associations between expressing interest in herbal supplements and demographic, social, and clinical characteristics were examined using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models. One-third (66/200, 33%) of the participants expressed interest in an herbal supplement for reducing alcohol consumption. In the multivariable analyses, weekly binge drinking (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.85, 95% CI 1.17-6.93), interest in abstaining from alcohol use (aOR 5.04, 95% CI 1.46-17.40), higher severity of alcohol dependence score (aOR 1.22, 95% CI 1.04-1.41), and interest in naltrexone (aOR 3.22, 95% CI 2.12-4.91) were independently associated with higher odds of being interested in using an herbal supplement to reduce alcohol consumption, adjusting for age, race or ethnicity, and education. We found that MSM who have hazardous drinking habits, more severe alcohol dependence, and interest in pharmacotherapy were more likely to express interest in using an herbal supplement for reducing alcohol consumption. To our knowledge, this is the first study that has evaluated correlates of interest in herbal supplements for alcohol use among MSM. As researchers implement novel alcohol treatment studies, they should focus on recruitment efforts among MSM with a motivation to reduce their alcohol use patterns.