Anti-inflammatory Research Articles

The Chemistry and Pharmacological Properties of the Constituents of Toussaintia Orientalis - An Endangered Treasure of Biomedical Agents.

Toussaintia orientalis Verdc. (Annonaceae) is a medicinal plant species endemic to Tanzania. It is classified under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as an extremely endangered species threatened with extinction. The review covers the phytochemistry of this plant species and the pharmacological properties of the compounds obtained therefrom. The chemistry of this plant species entails natural products with different structures including uncommon cinnamoyl tetraketide derivatives, aristolactam alkaloids, and flavonoids. The review identifies 27 compounds belonging to different subclasses of natural products obtained from this species for the past fourteen years (2010-2024). These compounds are discussed along with other 13 related natural products. T. orientalis derived compounds exhibit varied potential pharmacological applications as antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and neuroprotective agents. Some of the reported compounds displayed pharmacological properties corroborating the use of this plant species in traditional medicine. This review provides baseline data as one comprehensive compilation that will ignite interest and guide future research and development of therapeutic agents inspired by the chemodiversity presented by this plant species while at the same time attracting the attention of plant conservationists to initiate efforts to conserve this highly endangered biomedical treasure.

Synergistic Epistasis and Systems Biology Approaches to Uncover a Pharmacogenomic Map Linked to Pain, Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulating Agents (PAIma) in a Healthy Cohort.

The global public health addiction crisis has been stark, with over 932,400deaths in the USA and Canada from opioid overdose since 1999-2020, surpassing the mortality rates at the top of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Both nations exhibit opioid consumption rates significantly above the norm for developed countries. Analgesic type of opioids present both therapeutic benefits and substantial health risks, necessitating balanced drug regulation, careful prescribing, and dedicated opioid stewardship. The role of the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) system (Enzymatic functions) in metabolizing opioids highlights the potential of genotype-guided analgesia. By integrating Pharmacogenomics (PGx), this approach aims to optimize pain management, enhance safety, and reduce addiction risks. This understanding prompted the utilization of multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) to explore a range of phenotypes including PGx and gene-gene interactions (GGI) in a healthy cohort, thereby personalizing pain management strategies. The study sampled 100 unrelated healthy Western Iranians and 100 individuals from the 1000 Genome Project. Pre-testing involved searching for PGx annotations (variants associated with drug-gene-diseases) related to pain sensitivity and inflammation using the PharmGKB database, which identified 128 relevant genes. A questionnaire helped select 100 participants who had never used potent opioids but also other psychoactive agents (e.g., nicotine, amphetamines, etc.) and disease-related drugs. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was then employed to analyze these genes in an Iranian cohort. Further analyses included MDR for identifying synergistic gene annotations and GGI for exploring complex gene interactions through the Visualization of Statistical Epistasis Networks (ViSEN). The study identified a Pain, Anti-Inflammatory, and Immunomodulating agents (PAIma) panel from the 128 genes, resulting in 55,590 annotations across 21 curated pathways. After filtering, 54 significant structural or regulatory variants were identified. This research also highlighted novel gene relationships involving the CYP3A5 gene, hsa-miR-355-5p, Paliperidone, and CYP2D6, which warrant further investigation. This study offers a novel pharmacogenetic framework that could potentially transform opioid prescribing practices to mitigate misuse and enhance personalized pain management. Further validation of these findings from multi countries and ethnic groups could guide clinicians in implementing DNA-based opioid prescribing, aligning treatment more closely with individual genetic profiles.

Case series: Cervical far-lateral and combined cervical far lateral/ foraminal intervertebral disk extrusions in 10 dogs

Far-lateral intervertebral disk extrusions (IVDEs) have been reported infrequently in dogs in veterinary literature, mostly affecting the caudal lumbar intervertebral disks. We describe the clinical findings, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, treatment, and outcome in 10 dogs with cervical far-lateral IVDEs. Patient databases of 3 small animal hospitals and 1 veterinary teleradiology service were retrospectively searched for patients in which imaging studies (CT or MRI) identified the presence of intervertebral disk material outside the limits of the intervertebral foramen. Presenting clinical signs included: episodic signs of cervical pain (6/10, 30%), persistent signs of cervical pain (3/10, 50%), nerve root signature or lameness (5/10, 50%), and abnormal cervical posture only (excluding nerve root signature) (1/10, 10%). Affected IVD spaces (for 11 IVDEs in 10 dogs) included: C3-4 (6/11, 55%), C5-6 (3/11, 27%), and C2-3 (2/11, 18%). Nerve root signature was not reported for C2-3 IVDEs. All cases were managed medically (without surgery). The top 3 used medications were gabapentinoids (10/10, 100%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (10/10, 100%), and paracetamol (3/10, 30%). Median treatment duration was 25 days (range 10–84). Short-term outcome (<3 months) was recorded in 9/10 (90%) cases. Resolution of clinical signs was reported in 7/9 (78%) cases. Long-term follow-up was available for 6/10 (60%) cases (median 11.5 months, range 5.5–30 months); 5/6 (83%) showed resolution of clinical signs. Recurrence of clinical signs was reported in 1 case (9 months later), managed medically again, with successful outcome. In conclusion, cervical far-lateral disk extrusions are a rare clinical entity in dogs, but can result in severe, persistent or episodic, pain. Medical management is associated with a positive short- and long-term outcome in most cases.

Editorial: Hot topic: anti-inflammatory drug discovery

Editorial: Hot topic: anti-inflammatory drug discovery

Establishment of a human 3D in vitro liver-bone model as a potential system for drug toxicity screening.

Drug toxicity is an important cause of chronic liver damage, which in the long term can lead to impaired bone homeostasis through an imbalance in the liver-bone axis. For instance, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., diclofenac), which are commonly used to control pain during orthopaedic interventions, are known to reduce bone quality and are the most prevalent causes of drug-induced liver damage. Therefore, we used human cell lines to produce a stable, reproducible, and reliable in vitro liver-bone co-culture model, which mimics the impaired bone homeostasis seen after diclofenac intake in vivo. To provide the best cell culture conditions for the two systems, we tested the effects of supplements contained in liver and bone cell culture medium on liver and bone cell lines, respectively. Additionally, different ratios of culture medium combinations on bone cell scaffolds and liver spheroids' viability and function were also analysed. Then, liver spheroids and bone scaffolds were daily exposed to 3-6µM diclofenac alone or in co-culture to compare and evaluate its effect on the liver and bone system. Our results demonstrated that a 50:50 liver:bone medium combination maintains the function of liver spheroids and bone scaffolds for up to 21days. Osteoclast-like cell activity was significantly upregulated after chronic exposure to diclofenac only in bone scaffolds co-cultured with liver spheroids. Consequently, the mineral content and stiffness of bone scaffolds treated with diclofenac in co-culture with liver spheroids were significantly reduced. Interestingly, our results show that the increase in osteoclastic activity in the system is not related to the main product of diclofenac metabolism. However, osteoclast activation correlated with the increase in oxidative stress and inflammation associated with chronic diclofenac exposure. In summary, we established a long-term stable liver-bone system that represents the interaction between the two organs, meanwhile, it is also an outstanding model for studying the toxicity of drugs on bone homeostasis.

Flavonoids of Euphorbia hirta inhibit inflammatory mechanisms via Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways.

Euphorbia hirta has anti-inflammatory effects in traditional medicine, but its anti-inflammatory mechanism has not been explored at the cellular and molecular levels. To unravel these mechanisms, the main active components in the 65 and 95% ethanol extracts of Euphorbia hirta were first identified by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. Subsequently, potential anti-inflammatory targets and signaling pathways were predicted using network pharmacology and experimentally validated using RT-PCR and flow cytometry in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation model of RAW264.7 cells. The results revealed flavonoids as the key active components. Network pharmacology uncovered 71 potential anti-inflammation targets, with a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network highlighting 8 cores targets, including IL-6, TNF, NFκB and Nrf2 et al. Furthermore, Euphorbia hirta exerts anti-inflammation effects through modulation of Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways. Specifically, the 65% ethanol extract of Euphorbia hirta (EE65) and quercitrin (HPG) exerted anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory genes associated with the NF-κB signaling pathway, whereas baicalein (HCS) suppressed cellular inflammation by promoting Nrf2-mediated antioxidant gene expression and enhancing apoptosis of inflammatory cells. The results of the study suggest that Euphorbia hirta has potential for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Engineered self-regulating macrophages for targeted anti-inflammatory drug delivery

BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by increased levels of inflammation that primarily manifests in the joints. Macrophages act as key drivers for the progression of RA, contributing to the perpetuation of chronic inflammation and dysregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 1 (IL-1). The goal of this study was to develop a macrophage-based cell therapy for biologic drug delivery in an autoregulated manner.MethodsFor proof-of-concept, we developed “smart” macrophages to mitigate the effects of IL-1 by delivering its inhibitor, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). Bone marrow-derived macrophages were lentivirally transduced with a synthetic gene circuit that uses an NF-κB inducible promoter upstream of either the Il1rn or firefly luciferase transgenes. Two types of joint like cells were utilized to examine therapeutic protection in vitro, miPSCs derived cartilage and isolated primary mouse synovial fibroblasts while the K/BxN mouse model of RA was utilized to examine in vivo therapeutic protection.ResultsThese engineered macrophages were able to repeatably produce therapeutic levels of IL-1Ra that could successfully mitigate inflammatory activation in co-culture with both tissue-engineered cartilage constructs and synovial fibroblasts. Following injection in vivo, macrophages homed to sites of inflammation and mitigated disease severity in the K/BxN mouse model of RA.ConclusionThese findings demonstrate the successful development of engineered macrophages that possess the ability for controlled, autoregulated production of IL-1 based on inflammatory signaling such as via the NF-κB pathway to mitigate the effects of this cytokine for applications in RA or other inflammatory diseases. This system provides proof of concept for applications in other immune cell types as self-regulating delivery systems for therapeutic applications in a range of diseases.

Exploring COX-Independent Pathways: A Novel Approach for Meloxicam and Other NSAIDs in Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease Treatment

As a fundamental process of innate immunity, inflammation is associated with the pathologic process of various diseases and constitutes a prevalent risk factor for both cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies have indicated that several non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including Meloxicam, may prevent tumorigenesis, reduce the risk of carcinogenesis, improve the efficacy of anticancer therapies, and reduce the risk of CVD, in addition to controlling the body’s inflammatory imbalances. Traditionally, most NSAIDs work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) activity, thereby blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs), which play a role in inflammation, cancer, and various cardiovascular conditions. However, long-term COX inhibition and reduced PGs synthesis can result in serious side effects. Recent studies have increasingly shown that some selective COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs, such as Meloxicam, may exert effects beyond COX inhibition. This emerging understanding prompts a re-evaluation of the mechanisms by which NSAIDs operate, suggesting that their benefits in cancer and CVD treatment may not solely depend on COX targeting. In this review, we will explore the potential COX-independent mechanisms of Meloxicam and other NSAIDs in addressing oncology and cardiovascular health.

The Efficacy of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Athletes for Injury Management, Training Response, and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review

(1) Background: The purpose of this systematic review is to investigate the prevalent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in athletes and to comprehensively review the effectiveness and the results of these medications as it relates to injury management, training response, and overall sport performance. (2) Methods: An electronic literature search was performed in accordance with the recommendations and guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol. A total of 7 randomized controlled studies met the review’s specific inclusion criteria from the 2250 studies initially identified within the PubMed database. (3) Results: In total, 346 adult female and male athletes from a variety of sporting activities and fitness levels were observed, of which 175 athletes were treated with either oral, topical, or local muscular infusion of an NSAID. Depending on study design, the outcomes focused on results obtained through physical exam findings, questionnaires, various performance metrics, and direct tissue sampling from microdialysis or biopsies. Across the 7 total studies, 2 articles focused on injured athletes and their varying pain responses with NSAIDs; 2 studies assessed the limited impact of NSAIDs on performance; and 3 articles revealed the use of NSAIDs correlating to no increases in either collagen synthesis or satellite cell activity after exercise. (4) Conclusions: The systematic review affirmed that NSAIDs can be effective for managing acute pain. However, their value appears to diminish when treating chronic injuries or if NSAIDs are expected to improve performance or have other ergogenic effects in athletes, as the aggregate data did not support such benefits. (5) Practical applications: NSAIDs can be beneficial for athletes in the right situation, but the fact that there are risks and possible disadvantageous results with their use highlights the importance of promoting appropriate expectations and the judicious use of these medications with the athletic community.

Interleukin-6 receptor antibodies (tocilizumab) in acute myocardial infarction with intermediate to high risk of cardiogenic shock development (DOBERMANN-T): study protocol for a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, single-center, randomized clinical trial

BackgroundInflammation and neurohormonal activation play a significant role in the adverse outcome seen in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and the development of cardiogenic shock (CS), which is associated with a mortality rate up to 50%. Treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs such as tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist, has been shown to reduce troponin release and reduce the myocardial infarct size in AMI patients and it may therefore have cardioprotective properties.MethodsThis is a double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-center randomized clinical trial, including adult AMI patients without CS at hospital arrival, undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 24 h from symptom onset, and at intermediate to high risk of developing CS (ORBI risk score ≥ 10). A total of 100 participants will be randomized to receive a single intravenous dose of tocilizumab (280 mg) or placebo (normal saline). The primary outcome is peak plasma pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP) within 48 h, assessed using serial measurements at intervals: before infusion, 12, 24, 36, and 48 h after infusion. Secondary endpoints include the following: (1) cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) during 24–48 h after admission and at follow-up after 3 months with assessment of left ventricular area at risk, final infarct size, and the derived salvage index and (2) biochemical markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein and leukocyte counts) and cardiac injury (troponin T and creatinine kinase MB).DiscussionModulation of interleukin-6-mediated inflammation in patients with AMI, treated with acute PCI, and at intermediate to high risk of in-hospital CS may lead to increased hemodynamic stability and reduced left ventricular infarct size, which will be assessed using blood biomarkers with proBNP as the primary outcome and inflammatory markers, troponin T, and CMR with myocardial salvage index as the secondary endpoints.Trial registrationRegistered with the Regional Ethics Committee (H-21045751), EudraCT (2021–002028-19), ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05350592). Study registration date: 2022-03-08, Universal Trial Number U1111-1277–8523.

Musculoskeletal mimics for lumbosacral radiculopathy. Part 2: Specific disorders.

Lumbosacral radiculopathy is a common disorder evaluated by the electrodiagnostic medicine (EDX) consultant. Making this task difficult is the abundance of radiculopathy mimics. Peripheral neurologic mimics are common, but musculoskeletal mimics are not rare and may be less familiar to many EDX consultants. Awareness of the most common musculoskeletal mimickers-particularly key historical and physical examination features that can distinguish them from radiculopathies-can lead to an accurate diagnosis for the patient and referring provider. Part 1 of this monograph covered theoretical issues surrounding why radiculopathy mimics occur. This second part reviews the most common musculoskeletal mimics, including facet arthropathy, myofascial pain syndrome, hip pathology, greater trochanteric pain syndrome, piriformis syndrome, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, hamstring pathology, iliotibial band syndrome, and plantar fasciitis. Diagnosis of these musculoskeletal mimickers is complicated by nonspecific physical examination and imaging findings, and diagnostic injections are frequently necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for most mimickers includes physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, guided injections, and other conservative measures, only rarely followed by surgical intervention. EDX consultants can efficiently incorporate a few high-yield maneuvers into their physical examination based on the location of the pain to provide answers to patients presenting with a musculoskeletal mimic of a lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Use of Transverse Abdominis block for Post Operative pain management in Patients undergoing Emergency Cesarean Sections : a prospective study

INTRODUCTION Postoperative pain management is an essential aspect of perioperative care for patients undergoing emergency Cesarean sections. Adequate pain control not only improves patient comfort and satisfaction but also facilitates early mobilization, reduces the risk of complications, and shortens hospital stays. Transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block is a well-established technique for providing analgesia to the anterior abdominal wall, which can significantly reduce postoperative pain. In recent years, ultrasound guidance has been increasingly used to improve the accuracy and safety of TAP block. This research article aims to review the use of ultrasound-guided TAP block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing emergency Cesarean Sections. Methodology : A total of 60 patients who underwent Emergency Cesarean Sections were included in the study. All received bilateral US-guided TAP blocks with either ropivacaine 0.5% 20 ml on each side i. e. 40 ml total or saline. All participants received a spinal anaesthetic with bupivacaine, followed by postoperative acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and patient-controlled i.v. tramadol . Each patient was assessed 24 h after delivery for PCA Tramadol usage, average pain score, nausea, vomiting, itch and duration of hospital stay. Results and Conclusion Out of the total 60 patients , 30 were in the study group and 30 in placebo group. Total PCA Tramadol use in 24 h was reduced in the study group compared with the placebo group ( P<0.05). The active group reported improved satisfaction with their pain relief measured by visual analogue scale as compared with the placebo group ( P=0.008). There were no local complications attributable to the TAP block. Transverse abdominis plane block was effective in providing analgesia with a substantial reduction in tramadol use during 24h after cesarean section when used as adjunctive to standard analgesia.

Dual-Modality Accurate Visualization of Drug Synergy Based on Mass Spectrometry and Fluorescence Imaging.

There is a potential synergistic effect between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), but direct evidence for the study is lacking. With a single fluorescence detection method, it is difficult to accurately confirm the effectiveness of the synergistic effect. In this study, the fluorescent probe and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug naproxen were combined via different self-immolative spacer groups to obtain a diagnostic and therapeutic integrated fluorescent probe Nap-NP-NSB, which can release H2S. The quantitative release of H2S by Nap-NP-NSB was evaluated in vitro and in cells, and the synergistic effect of H2S and naproxen was confirmed by monitoring the treatment process of cellular inflammation and oxidative damage of gastric mucosa cells. Finally, in vivo fluorescence imaging and mass spectrometry imaging of the liver and stomach tissues and their sections were performed in the mouse model of acute hepatitis. The dual-modal detection method not only confirmed that Nap-NP-NSB had better anti-inflammatory activity and less gastric mucosal damage, but also enabled a more accurate visualization of the drug synergistic effect of naproxen and H2S. This work provides a dual visualization imaging method combining fluorescence and mass spectrometry imaging and develops a new idea for studying drug synergies based on self-immolative structures.

CISTITE IDIOPÁTICA FELINA: REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is a disease that mainly affects domestic cats, and can be very frequent, associated with frequency and pain. It is a very complex condition because its specific cause is not known. Its diagnosis is made through exclusion, that is, by ruling out other possible causes of lower urinary tract inflammation. In most cases, dietary changes, environmental enrichment and stress control are used, in an attempt to promote the well-being of those affected and improve the quality of life. It is essential that there is the right choice for treatment, as a mistake can lead to the individual's death, and several types of drug intervention to control pain and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve patients' suffering are viable. Therefore, the present study addresses the main aspects of the ICF, such as the pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnoses, and treatment, exploring different perspectives highlighted in the literature.

Neuroimmune cross-talk in heart failure.

Heart failure (HF) is characterized by autonomic nervous system (ANS) imbalance and low-grade chronic inflammation. The bidirectional relationship between the ANS and immune system (IS) is named "neuroimmune cross-talk" (NICT), and is based on common signaling molecules, receptors, and pathways. NICT may be altered in HF, and neuroinflammation seems to be a main driver of HF progression. In HF, heightened sympathetic nerve activity triggers inflammatory cascades that lead to cardiomyocyte death and myocardial interstitial fibrosis. Concurrently, parasympathetic withdrawal may impair the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, with a less effective immune response to infections or inflammatory events. Additionally, microglial activation and inflammatory molecules contribute to autonomic imbalance by acting on central nuclei and peripheral visceral feedbacks, which in turn promote adverse cardiac remodeling, HF decompensation, and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias. Therefore, neuroinflammation has been identified as a potential target for treatment. Pharmacological antagonism of the neurohormonal system remains the cornerstone of chronic HF therapy. While some drugs used in HF management may have additional benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties, clinical trials targeting inflammation in patients with HF have so far produced inconclusive results. Nevertheless, considering the pathophysiological relevance of NICT, its modulation seems an appealing strategy to optimize HF management. Current research is therefore investigating novel pharmacological targets for anti-inflammatory drugs, and the immunomodulatory properties of denervation approaches and bioelectronic medicine devices targeting NICT and neuroinflammation in HF. A deeper understanding of the complex relationship between the ANS and IS, as outlined in this review, could therefore facilitate the design of future studies aimed at improving outcomes by targeting NICT in patients with HF.

Gastric-like (pseudopyloric and pseudofoveolar) metaplasia and Paneth cell hyperplasia-neglected histological features of chronic ileal inflammation.

Architectural distortion and basal plasmacytosis are the most widely recognized histologic features of chronic ileal inflammation. However, these features might be difficult to assess in small, poorly oriented, or superficial biopsies. Additional features of chronic mucosal damage, including pseudopyloric or pseudofoveolar metaplasia and Paneth cell hyperplasia, have been less commonly reported, and their broader appreciation could facilitate the diagnosis of chronic ileal inflammatory conditions. The prevalence of gastric-like (pseudopyloric and pseudofoveolar) metaplasia and Paneth cell hyperplasia was evaluated in 102 ileal biopsies obtained from patients with Crohn's disease (n = 47), ulcerative colitis with endoscopically normal ileum (n = 20) or with backwash ileitis (n = 20), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs- (NSAIDs-) induced ileitis (n = 15). Gastric-like metaplasia was identified in 23% of CD and 13% of NSAID-induced ileitis cases, whereas it was absent among all ulcerative colitis cases. Pseudopyloric metaplasia, pseudofoveolar metaplasia, or a combination of both was documented in 13%, 2%, and 9% of Crohn's disease cases, respectively. NSAID-associated cases showed only pseudopyloric metaplasia. Paneth cell hyperplasia was detected in 43% of Crohn's disease cases, 13% of NSAID-induced ileitis cases, and 5% of backwash ileitis cases. Accordingly, pseudofoveolar metaplasia, pseudopyloric metaplasia, and Paneth cell hyperplasia are not uncommon in conditions causing chronic ileal inflammation. They are most frequently detected in Crohn's disease, but may also be present in NSAID-induced ileitis, whereas they are significantly less common in backwash ileitis and absent in normal ileum. Given the surface localization of pseudofoveolar metaplasia, its identification can be particularly helpful when dealing with poorly oriented or superficial samples.

Comprehensive In silico and In vitro evaluation of Plectranthus amboinicus essential oil: A promising inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 Omicron variant, proinflammatory biomarkers and diabetes-related enzymes

Existing challenges, such as the viral SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 Omicron variants, adverse reactions, and limited availability of drugs for COVID-19 continue to challenge global health. Severe inflammatory response associated with COVID-19 has been shown to worsen diabetic conditions and finding a range of treatment options for COVID-19 is significant. The research investigated the potential of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng. (Lamiaceae) essential oil (PEO), known for its bioactive terpene content, as a multifaceted therapeutic agent. In silico and in vitro approaches were conducted to evaluate its inhibitory effects on the replication of Omicron variant, its ability to modulate proinflammatory biomarkers, and its impact on diabetes-related enzymes. PEO was extracted by hydrodistillation method. GC-MS analysis revealed 62 compounds. In silico molecular docking showed that the top ten PEO major components exhibited strong binding affinities with Omicron 3CL protease (-4.0 to −6.1 kcal/mol) and spike-RBD protein (-6.1 to −9.2 kcal/mol). PEO (6.25–200 μg mL⁻¹) significantly inhibited the B.1.1.529 Omicron SARS-CoV-2 3CL protease and Spike-RBD. PEO showed a cytotoxic effect at >80 μg mL⁻¹ in LPS-induced macrophage and inhibited production of TNF-α from 6.25 to 50 μg mL⁻¹, indicating its potential to mitigate the cytokine storm in link with severe COVID-19 cases. In vitro, PEO at 6.25–200 μg mL⁻¹ significantly inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, suggesting that PEO components could modulate key enzymes involved in glucose metabolisms. These findings showed the potential of PEO as an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic agent and offer an opportunity to further clinical investigations in testing the efficacy as an alternative approach to managing COVID-19 and its complications.

Risk stratification of residual abscess after surgical treatment for gastroduodenal perforation

AbstractAimsResidual abscess is a major complication after emergency surgery for gastroduodenal (GD) perforation. However, there is little evidence regarding potential risk factors contributing to its development. Establishing a risk stratification strategy would be valuable for the entire management process.MethodsThis single‐center, retrospective study analyzed 115 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for GD perforation between 2010 and 2023 at a secondary emergency care hospital. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of residual abscesses. Potential risk factors for abscess formation were evaluated from various aspects.ResultsThe incidence of residual abscesses was 19.1% (22 of 115). Multivariable analysis revealed that current use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (odds ratio [OR] 3.76, p = 0.037), cancer chemotherapy (OR 13.56, p = 0.005), and preoperative renal dysfunction (OR 4.72, p = 0.018) were independent predictors. A potential scoring model could be created using these three parameters, and the number of risk factors correlated with the likelihood of developing a residual abscess (0 vs. 1 vs. ≥2; 6.2% vs. 29.4% vs. 50.0%, p < 0.001). From a bacteriological point of view, the presence of Enterococcus in the ascites culture was closely related to its occurrence with 100% probability. Moreover, regarding early detection of this complication, C‐reactive protein on postoperative d 5 had the highest predictive ability with an area under the curve of 0.818.ConclusionThe risk of residual abscess formation after surgical treatment of GD perforation can be assessed utilizing both preoperative and postoperative information.

Enhanced 3D-printed Matrix for Electrocatalytic Detection: A Practical and Simple Electrochemical Platform

AbstractIn this work, we proposed a novel 3D-printed manufactured electrode system. A project was developed and optimized, compatible with commercially available potetiostats. Additive manufacturing included the modification of the pseudo-reference electrode by electrodeposition of silver and its subsequent oxidation to the Ag/AgCl form. Then the system was tested using electrochemical techniques to check the application as a universal electroactive platform. As an example, we checked the detection of paracetamol as a common substance from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Finally, the system was compared to available commercial carbon electrodes, considering the screen-printed electrode (SPE no.1 and SPE no.2) and the glassy carbon electrode (GCE), showing higher sensitivity and linearity range compared to commercial screen-printed systems. The novelty of the proposed platform unveils a new way of common, simple, budget, and fast obtaining a universal electroactive platform for electrochemical research, keeping high-performance parameters.

Study of Correlation between H. pylori, Life Habits, and Risk Factors among Adult Patients in Gharyan, Libya

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that can live in the human stomach and is one of the most common pathogens worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between H. pylori infection and risk factors and life style habits, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alcohol ingestion, and smoking. The study was conducted in two centers in Gharyan, Libya (private clinics). The case study took place over three months from July to September 2024 and utilized a validated questionnaire. All participants had confirmed H. pylori infections. A total of 50 cases with positive H. pylori infections were included in this study. They completed the questionnaire and data was analyzed using simple statistics. The questionnaire consisted of three parts. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was higher in females than males in this study. The findings suggested that certain habits, such as perceived stress, frequency of physical activity per week, and duration of physical activity, may influence the presence of H. pylori infection. Additionally, adults with below-normal levels of vitamin D had a higher risk of H. pylori infection.