Organotherapy is a field of medical practice that uses animal-origin organ-specific extracts to treat the same organs in humans. This therapeutic modality has a long history, spanning from the empirical use of organ extracts in antiquity to the current application of nano-sized proteins and peptides. The main features of organotherapy are: (1) the use of a mixture of organ-specific proteins and peptides; (2) all active and inactive ingredients are derived from a natural source; (3) the concentration and combination of the ingredients correspond to the natural concentration and combination of these substances in a healthy organ. Although today the majority of the ingredients in organ-specific extracts can be identified, and their therapeutic effects can be explained, this information does not have a significant impact on the theory and practice of organotherapy. Since the effectiveness of any treatment depends not so much on the drug itself as on the treatment protocol, a theoretical comparison of the classical treatment approach, based on the physician's knowledge and experience, with a new one, which is termed the "evidence-based" approach, has been done. It is assumed that the more knowledgeable and experienced the physician practicing organotherapy, the higher the expected therapeutic effect and the greater the likelihood that the treatment can be classified as "precision medicine."
Background: Monitoring hematological parameters in anemic pregnant women is of paramount importance to provide appropriate treatment, avoiding adverse effects. Some hematological parameters as erythrocyte indices can establish some type of anemia. The objective of this work is to evaluate the hematological profile of pregnant women with nutritional anemia during pregnancy. 100 women aged 18 to 45 years, including 50 women who presented anemia during pregnancy and 50 other non-anemic pregnant women (as controls), were followed in prenatal consultations at the mother and child hospital in Bingerville (Abidjan). Material and methods: Blood samples taken during routine prenatal visits from the antenatal vein of the elbow crease in these women were used to determine hematological parameters (erythrocyte lines and indices, platelet). Then, complete blood count was performed by "Sysmex XN-1000", an automated hematology and the values of erythrocyte parameters were determined. The data were analyzed by R 4.2.1 and R Studio software. In addition, pregnant women were subjected to an anonymous questionnaire mainly including the taking of iron supplements and the educational level. Results: The presence of anemia in patients has led to a significant decrease in red blood cells (3.67± 0.06.103 /mm3), hemoglobin (10.04 ± 0.09g/dL), hematocrit (29.86 ± 0.29%), mean corpuscular volume (MCV, 80.02 ± 0.74fL) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH, 27.69 ± 0.33pg) noticed only to anemic women. The platelet count of anemic and non-anemic mothers did not undergo any significant variation (245.32 ± 8.07.103 mm3 vs 236.02 ± 7.43.103 mm3; p = 0.399) with a slight increase in this rate in few anemic pregnant women. In the latter group, almost all women did not present thrombocytopenia (96% vs 4%). The erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH) in anemic pregnant women allowed to affirm that 25 patients (50%) were designated normochromic normocytic and 25 patients (50%) hypochromic microcytic. The deterioration of erythrocyte parameters in anemic pregnant women (hypochromic microcytic) for nutritional anemia could be explained by iron deficiency. There’s then the question of a low level of education. Conclusion: These changes essentially require economic and educational empowerment and then prenatal monitoring with iron supplementation of anemic pregnant women to achieve encouraging results in thrombopenia tests in this same group.
Introduction: In the context of SARS-CoV-2 infections, the significance of NO production in the nasal mucosa as an endogenous activator of immune function is in discussion, especially how the endogenous metabolism can be empowered. E.g., humming is been discovered to increase NO release. From another point of view, forest bathing seen as a source of relaxation for body and soul, may have an influence on nasal NO levels, due to the aerosols produced by the trees. In this trial interested, whether the exposition to a fresh felled pine induces endogenous NOx production. As control condition, humming having a verifiable emission of NO was chosen. Methods: In a RCT 16 volunteers in a randomized cross over design either inhaled fresh pine scent or were humming each for 5 min. Nasal fractional exhaled nitric oxide was measured before and after the exposition respectively the control procedure. A simply subjective relaxation test was taken in parallel. Results: Before-after comparison revealed an impressing increase of NO concentrations, but were not significant, just as intra-individual differences (pre-post) between the two groups (Wilcoxon Test). Positive changes with the scent of the felled tree were observed in 44% of the subjects, with humming 48%. Almost 70% of the study participants could profit at least from one of the both stimuli, only 25% showed no increase. Discussion: The old Germanic/Celtic tradition to put trees in the living rooms and light candles which was transferred to Christian customs could have a more serious background than only a pleasant scent and lights to modulate moods in a positive manner. Unconscious knowledge about the immunomodulatory effects could be another important aspect. Conclusion: Perhaps this may be the reason why singing/humming nearby the Christmas tree is so common: So there's something for everyone! Happy holidays!
Controlled Ankle Motion walkers (CAMs) are prefabricated ankle-foot interventions commonly used to address a broad range of orthopedic and vascular diagnoses. Variants from this intervention types appear to have differing kinematic features despite being described by the same billing codes and regarded as belonging to the same intervention strategy. The relatively low application complexity, cost, and profit margins of these devices can place barriers to the detailed evaluation and device selection that would lead to optimal healthcare outcomes. Technical analysis of 4 commercially available and established CAM walkers revealed differing magnitudes of forefoot and heel rockers as well as a range of non-kinematic features that impact user acceptance and healthcare outcomes.
While the global population of older adults grows, long-term care settings have become imperative in defining the elasticity and well-being of aging individuals. This study interrogated the complex interplay of psychological, social, and structural factors that nurture resilience among older adults in long-term care environments. Ideas from Resilience Theory and Socio-Ecological Models of Health were adopted with a literature-based methodology that synthesized research across gerontology, public health, and psychology to understand how institutional practices, caregiver relationships, environmental design, and policy influence outcomes. The primary research question focused on identifying the most effective resilience-building strategies to improve the quality of life and mental health of long-term care residents. Findings emphasized that person-centred care, active family involvement, staff emotional intelligence training, and opportunities for social and spiritual engagement are critical to nurturing resilience. The study concluded by examining how integrating emotional, social, and environmental supports within long-term care can transform these settings into empowering spaces. The study recommended policy reforms and operational models that can promoted resilience and caregiver capacity-building as foundational to holistic aging care.
Background: Harita Samhita is one of the ancient Ayurvedic classical texts composed by Sage Harita in the Sanskrit language around the 6th or 7th century AD. Harita Samhita is written in a conversational format, featuring dialogues between Sage Harita and his preceptor Punarvasu Atreya. Dwitiya Sthana is one among the 6 sections of Harita Samhita that consists of various prognostic concepts within 9 chapters. Doota Parikshana and Shakuna Varnana are the last two chapters (8th and 9th) of Dwitiya Sthana of Harita Samhita (DSHS). Aim: The aim of the present review is to explore the contents of the Doota Parikshana and Shakuna Varnana chapters of DSHS with special reference to their prognostic significance. Methods: An in-depth review has been carried out on the significance of caregiver (Doota) attributes and their impact on the caregiving process, omen and their impact on prognostic outcomes based on the contents of the Doota Parikshana and Shakuna Varnana chapters of DSHS by referring various Ayurvedic classical texts and published articles. Results: Arishta Lakshanas pertaining to Doota (caregiver/messenger) are described in Doota Pariskhana Adhyaya, and various good and bad omens with their prognostic outcomes are explained in the Shakuna Varnana Adhyaya of DSHS in a precise and unique way. Conclusion: Doota Parikshana Adhyaya contents could be explained with caregiver characteristics and their impact on prognostic outcomes in a scientific way. Various Shakunas mentioned in Shakuna Varnana Adhyaya may represent synchronicities, quantum entanglement, mindful states, precognition, random coincidences, retrocausality etc. The present review provides a foundation for future research.
Objective: To assess hemodynamic changes in high school students during the McArdle step test following COVID-19 infection. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved high school students aged 14 to 17 years, divided into two groups: those previously infected with COVID-19 (CV-19) and a control group (CG). Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SaO₂) were monitored. Participants also performed a stair-climbing test, consisting of climbing and descending stairs for 3 minutes. Results: Twenty-four volunteers participated—12 in the CV-19 group (mean age 17.0 ± 0.0 years) and 12 in the CG group (mean age 16.5 ± 0.7 years). Regarding the measured variables, resting HR (CV-19 vs. CG) was 67.5 ± 3.5 vs. 72.5 ± 0.7 bpm (p = 0.548); post-test HR was 93 ± 19.7 vs. 115 ± 16.9 bpm (p = 0.229). Baseline SBP was 102 ± 9.8 vs. 122 ± 16.9 mmHg (p = 0.570); post-test SBP was 123 ± 14.1 vs. 138 ± 21.2 mmHg (p = 0.092). Baseline DBP was 58 ± 0.0 vs. 71 ± 16.5 mmHg (p = 0.417); post-test DBP was 69 ± 2.8 vs. 76 ± 13.8 mmHg (p = 0.429). Baseline SaO₂ was 94.5 ± 3.5% in both groups (p = 0.859); post-test SaO₂ was 96 ± 1.4 vs. 96.5 ± 0.7% (p = 0.889). Conclusion: Although the results of this pilot study suggest that COVID-19 infection did not significantly affect blood pressure, heart rate, or oxygen saturation responses in high school students, it is important to note that the small sample size (12 participants per group) limits the statistical power of the analysis. Therefore, the findings should be interpreted with caution, and studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these results.
Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a global metabolic disorder, characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and associated symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. Prameha, a disease condition described in Ayurvedic texts, shares strong pathophysiological and clinical similarities with diabetes mellitus. Ayurveda offers a range of herbo-mineral formulations for Prameha management, among which Vangeshwara Rasa is frequently cited in classical texts. Objective: This study aims to critically examine classical Ayurvedic references to Vangeshwara Rasa and analyze its potential role in the management of Prameha (diabetes mellitus), supported by contemporary clinical and pharmacological evidence. Materials and methods: A total of 21 classical Ayurvedic references for Vangeshwara Rasa were reviewed, of which 15 were indicated specifically for Prameha and included in the analysis. Key ingredients such as Rasasindura (Red Sulfide of Mercury) and Vanga Bhasma (Tin Ash) were examined for their therapeutic relevance based on Ayurvedic principles and modern studies. Results: Most formulations share common core ingredients but vary in complexity. Pharmacological properties of Rasasindura and Vanga Bhasma suggest actions like Agni Deepana, Kleda Shoshana, and Medohara, which directly address the pathogenesis of Prameha. Modern studies indicate improvements in glycemic parameters, subjective symptoms, and diabetic complications, with good safety profiles. Conclusion: Vangeshwara Rasa represents a promising Ayurvedic formulation for the integrative management of Prameha. Further standardization and clinical validation are essential to establish its evidence-based utility in diabetes care.
This article aims to shed light on the historical context of the development of medicine, bringing to light characteristic elements of its construction, since antiquity, starting with the Egyptians, advancing through the Greeks, entering the Middle Ages, passing through the Renaissance and making a contrast with the so-called esoteric procedures in the 19th century, which made a contrast with the current models, due to the fact that they acted with more subtle energies and were unproven according to the parameters of the time.
Background: Terpenes and terpenoids, naturally occurring compounds derived from plants, have shown potential in various therapeutic applications due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. This review tries to elucidate the potential of terpenes and terpenoids in managing pain for patients with osteoarthritis in the knee and/or hip, and whether they can function as alternatives to conventional painkillers including paracetamol and NSAID’s. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted, resulting in the inclusion of ten studies, each either examining different classifications of terpenes and terpenoids alone or in combination with other bioactive compounds through various experimental designs. These studies were primarily assessed for their impact on pain reduction and secondary for possible impact on joint stiffness, activity of daily living and consumption of rescue medication. Results: In eight out of ten studies, plant extracts containing terpenes and terpenoids significantly decreased overall pain, resulting in improvement in outcome measures such as WOMAC, VAS and LFI scores. A decline in joint stiffness and inflammation was observed in the remaining studies. It is proposed that cyclic triterpenoids, in particular, because of anti-inflammatory properties, may play a crucial role in pain management in osteoarthritis. It is also suggested that monoterpenes, diterpenes, and sesquiterpenes alone or in combination with other bioactive compounds, can have significant impact on pain. Conclusion: Because of the variability in study design, dosages, duration of treatment and the fact that there at present are no human studies focusing on “pure” terpenes and/or terpenoids, it is difficult to conclude that a specific classification of terpenes and terpenoids would be effective. However, our findings emphasizes that terpenes and terpenoids should be further investigated as they in the future may partly replace rescue medication.
This article highlights the relevance of carbohydrates as the main source of energy for performance in sports. It is stressed that the correct intake of carbohydrates before, during and after exercise is vital to optimize performance, avoid fatigue and speed up recovery. Not only are carbohydrates critical for maintaining energy during exercise, but they also play a crucial role in adapting to training and decreasing the risk of injury and overtraining. Additionally, it is pointed out that the quality of sleep and hydration are additional elements that favor the optimal performance of the athlete. In addition to the influence of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins on energy metabolism, underlining the relevance of the effectiveness of metabolic pathways for high-intensity activities. It is proposed that tailoring nutritional strategies to the particular needs of each athlete can lead to noticeable improvements in performance and overall health. Finally, it can be deduced that a correct intake of carbohydrates not only impacts physical condition, but also mood and cognitive function, underlining the importance of carbohydrates in sports and muscle rehabilitation. This knowledge provides a firm basis for practical suggestions based on sports nutrition studies.
Background: Further deepening is required in studies that include objective indicators of sports performance and its direct correlation with the genotype in the analysis on variations of the GDF8 Gene and its association to the sports phenotype in the weightlifting discipline in the department of Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Objective: To determine the presence of genetic variants in the GDF8 gene in weightlifters belonging to the Valle del Cauca Weightlifting League. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study of 25 athletes from the Valle del Cauca Weightlifting League, detection of genetic variants by genotyping through next generation sequencing from peripheral blood samples, and use of the IBM® SPSS® Statistics 21 statistical program. Results: 92% of the participating athletes presented the genetic variant rs1805086 of the GDF8 gene; 57% of the population that presented the variant were male, and 91% of the population that presented the variant were of African descent. It was found that 43% of the population with the presence of the variant obtained more than 5 local medals and more than 1 medal in international tournaments. Conclusions: A frequency of 92% for the R allele of the rs1805086 polymorphism (MSTN K153R) observed in the study population suggests a possible selection effect associated with the participants' sports profile and highlights the importance of this genetic marker as a potential predictor of performance in strength and power disciplines.
Objectives: Establish the morbidity related to adenomegalic syndrome in the child population admitted to the pediatrics and childcare service of the Dr. Carlos Arvelo Military Hospital in the city of Caracas, in the period from January 2019 to January 2023. Methods: Research with a quantitative approach, at a descriptive epidemiological, cross-sectional, documentary and descriptive level. The data obtained were from the files of the institution in which the study was carried out. Results: The sample consisted of 41 patients, of which 95.12% presented lymph nodes larger than 5 cm, 55.63% had no involvement in other spaces, 53.66% presented the syndrome acutely, in 90.25 % the disease arises from a viral or bacterial etiology, 92.68% of those admitted had no other previous pathologies, however, 100% of the children treated presented symptoms, with fever being the most recurrent. Regarding treatment, the use of antibiotics was the most widely indicated in 82.92% of cases. All of the patients treated, 100%, had satisfactory clinical improvement. Discussion: Although the discovery of lymphadenopathy generates fears, medical discharge is relatively quick and the procedures are simple, making the diagnosis of this disease consequently simple and depends on its location. Conclusions: A higher incidence of the syndrome was observed in female children with an average age of 5 years. The enlarged abdomen was located in the submandibular region, with bacterial or viral causes. The most commonly used treatment was Oxacilin.
Historically, vision has been essential to the survival of humankind. With increasing digitisation, however, vision may be even more important, as modern humans are dependent on their ability to read and interact with a multitude of technologies. These interactions entail tasks such as operating touch screens, reading instructions on a computer screen, reading small-scale text messages on our smart-phones or devices, reading the news, menus, or other items. To put it simple, our life is nowadays totally dependent on screen interactions and our ability to decipher and interpret these screens. Frequent daily screen interactions can lead to increased ocular challenges, including discomfort of the eyes, blurred vision, eye strain, eye pain and visual fatigue. Ageing of the general population in developed countries compound these challenges. For that reason, any treatment or change in lifestyle, which may improve or support vision, even to a limited degree, can be of great importance. Age-Related, Macular Degeneration (AMD) annually affects millions of people worldwide, resulting in difficulties in recognising faces and focusing on screens. Two larger clinical studies have made it clear that a certain amount of people with AMD can improve their symptoms by taking a formulation contains high amounts of vitamin C, a lesser amount of vitamin E, lutein, zeaxanthin and select minerals. However, the same vitamins and minerals are naturally occurring in a humble plant: Rose-Hip, the fruits of Rosa canina L. Is it possible that a dried powder from Rose-Hip seeds and shells, which is already being used to alleviate pain and stiffness in people suffering from osteoarthritis, may also alleviate AMD symptoms? This topic is discussed in this short communication.
Zeaxantin (Z) and lutein (L) are two of only three carotenoids highly concentrated in the retina of the eye as macular pigments. These also appear in the visual cortex and frontal lobe and play an essential role in visual acuity. Furthermore, in the brain, these carotenoids can be associated with visual performance such as processing speed and color perception. Previous research on the effect of Z and L processing speed has met with inconsistent results. The aim of this study was to determine if the carotenoids Z and L alone or in combination (Z+L) has an effect on visual reaction time (VRT), critical flicker fusion frequency threshold (CFF) and chromatic color discrimination (CCD). VRT was assessed using a computerized visual reaction test consisting of a large red circle on a blue field. At random intervals, the circle would turn green at which the participant would click the mouse button. CFF was assessed by a computerized program capable of timing participant’s perception. CCD was assessed using the Farnsworth Munsell 100 Hue Test. Healthy participants (n=50) ranging in age from 18 to 23 years were pre-tested on VRT, CFF, and CCD and subsequently given either 5mg Z, 30mg L, a combination of 5mg Z and 5mg Lutein, or placebo. After one week, participants were tested again. Results of repeated measures ANOVAs yielded no pre- to post-test significance (p>0.05) for VRT. However, the three carotenoid supplements recorded slightly faster times than the placebo. For CFF, only the Z+L group improved significantly. In the assessment of CCD, both L and the combination of Z and L resulted in significantly (p<0.05) greater accuracy in chromatic contrast discrimination. The enhancement carotenoids in visual processing and hue discrimination may be advantageous is areas that require rapid reaction and hue discrimination such as some sports and job related tasks.
It has been noted that current smokers have more favourable outcomes with Covid-19 infections, and that the spike protein shares some sequence homology with snake venom neurotoxins which bind to nicotinic cholinergic receptors. As the Cholinergic Anti-inflammatory Pathway has been implicated in Covid-19 disease, it has been hypothesised that nicotine may provide some symptomatic benefit in spike- protein related diseases. However the actions of nicotine are neither physiologic nor specific to the α7nAChR and carry significant side effects. Therefore alternative means of activating the Cholinergic Anti-inflammatory Pathway need to be sought.
Therapeutic education is defined as a set of tools for training the patient to acquire adequate know-how in order to achieve a balance between his or her life and optimal control of the disease. It is threrefore one of the pillars of diabetes management. Therefore, with the use of mobile phones, it is now possible to use digital tools to train people with diabetes to effectively manage their disease themselves. Therefore telephone messaging interventions such as Short Message Service (SMS) may present practical and cost-effective ways to support diabetes self- management and thus improve metabolic control in patients with diabetes. Thus the objective of our study was to évaluate the effect of educational text messages on the metabolic control of type 2 diabetes. To do so, we conducted a randomized clinical trial from february 7 to june 2022 in two hospitals in the city of Yaounde: the National Center for Diabetes and Hypertension (NCDH) of the Central Hospital of Yaounde (CHY) and the General Hospital of Yaounde (GHY). This study included two groups: an intervention group that receive educational and personalized text messages and a control group that receive placebo messages. The minimum sample size was 23 participants in each group using the Whitney and Ball; sociodemographic data, history, clinical data parameters were entered and analysed on SPSS 26.software and Excel 2013 for plots. Neymar mac test was used to search for association between variables. We recruited 60 participants, 30 in the intervention group and 30 in the control group. Each participant was followed up for a period of 3 months and after 3 months of follow-up, after measurement of glycated haemoglobin variables. We had a significant decrease of 1,64% (P=0,047) in glycated haemoglobin in the intervention group versus 0,82% in the control group. In addition,we had a significant improvement in the level of knowledge (P<0,001), self-efficacy in physical activity(p=0,021) and self-monitoring of blood glucose in favour of the intervention group(P=0,018). More than half of the participants indicated a high level of satisfaction with the programme and said they would recommend it to orthers. Therapeutic message education improves not only the metabolic education improves not only the metabolic control of patients, their level of knowledge but also their efficacy in managing their disease.
Bhutonmada or Grahonmada (psychiatric and/or neuropsychiatric conditions described in Ayurveda having an idiopathic manifestation) is a specific type of Unmada (broad diagnostic entity that encompasses a wide range of psychiatric conditions) explained in Ayurvedic (a holistic system of medicine) texts characterized by various abnormal or superhuman behaviour, perception, speech and memory. Craving towards specific foods and alcohol are the common clinical findings across Bhutonmadas. Several Ayurvedic terms are used in the context of Bhutonmada to describe various dimensions and intensities of cravings, from a mild preference to an intense, addictive desire. The idea of quantifying cravings (in the context of Bhutonmada) using Ayurvedic terminology has been proposed in the present work. The present work also explores how contemporary psychological concepts of attentional biases, cognitive errors, information processing errors, maladaptive and impulsive behaviours can be interpreted in Ayurveda primarily through the concepts of Dhee, Dhriti, Smriti Vibhrama (attentional memory biases) and Pragnaparadha (cognitive errors/biases). Madyaamisha Sakta Drishti (a clinical feature of Bhutonmada characterized by sustained gaze on alcohol and meat-related visual cues), and its similarities to the modern concept of attentional bias to alcohol and specific food-related visual cues, measured using eye-tracking technology in contemporary practice, has been explored in the present work.
Background: The sweat rate consists of relating the athlete's initial and final weight with the amount of fluid ingested and thus identify how much dehydrated they were dehydration is a state that a person enters after having lost fluids from their body. Aim: Diagnose the athlete's sweat rate by considering the consumption of the beverages before, during, and after the test. To analyze the correlation of diagnoses according to the intake of hydrating drinks, sweat rate and weight of the athletes. Methods: This test was carried out at the I.U.D., specifically at the CAF, where an exercise bike was used. The methodological approach is quantitative, a sweat rate was performed in a test for three (3) consecutive days, which consisted of the athlete being subjected to an hour without rest on the exercise bike consuming three (3) types of drinks (water, Gatorade, serum), a different one for each day. Results: It was evident that with water he lost 2.12% (moderate dehydration), with Gatorade he lost 0.99% (minimal dehydration), we observed that his dehydration decreased thanks to the replacement of fluids lost during physical activity, with serum he lost 1.13%. Conclusions: According to the study carried out, two drinks stand out, water was the drink that made the athlete lose more weight during his process and we considered whey, since it was the drink that was consumed the least and was the one that kept the athlete hydrated.
