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Srivastava A, Jit BP, Dash R, Srivastava R, Srivastava S. Thuja occidentalis: An Unexplored Phytomedicine with Therapeutic Applications. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2023; 26:3-13. [PMID: 35260050 DOI: 10.2174/1386207325666220308153732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 has received global attention. Due to a lack of recommended treatment regimens, the world faced various limitations resulting in improper management of the disease. Phytomedicines have played a prominent role in the prevention of various epidemics and pandemics in the past. OBJECTIVE Here, we attempt to focus on safe and feasible use of Thuja occidentalis to manage and alleviate the panic of viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19, by strengthening an individual's immunity. The relevant information was collected from the web-based databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE, as well as other internet sources to review the applicability of T. occidentalis as a phytomedicine in managing respiratory infections and strengthening immunity. CONCLUSION As important phytomedicine, and antipsychotic, T. occidentalis possesses a plethora of immunological properties that can be used effectively in the management of viral respiratory infections and has the potential to prevent further progression of the disease. Importantly, this could be only a part of the approach for treatment during the current outbreak that should be considered along with other measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad 211004, India
| | - Bimal Prasad Jit
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Rutumbara Dash
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Rishi Srivastava
- Department of Practice of Medicine, L R Shah Homeopathy Medical College, Saurashtra University, Rajkot 361162, India
| | - Sameer Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad 211004, India
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Munshi R, Talele G, Shah R. In-Vitro Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activities of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Candida albicans Nosodes. HOMEOPATHY 2021; 111:42-48. [PMID: 34020481 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1727149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study presents the results of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay of a series of nosodes: namely Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Candida albicans. Each was tested against its corresponding infection as well as cross infections. METHODS In-vitro efficacy of polyvalent nosodes was tested using the MIC assay technique. The nosodes, namely C. albicans polyvalent nosode (35c, 100c), N. gonorrhoeae (35c), K. pneumoniae (35c, 100c), E. coli polyvalent nosode (35c, 100c) and Salmonella typhi polyvalent nosode (30c, 100c), were tested along with positive and negative controls. Nosodes were studied in different potencies and at 1:1 dilution. RESULTS C. albicans polyvalent nosode 35c, 100c, N. gonorrhoeae 35c, and positive control amphotericin B showed inhibition of the growth of C. albicans species. K. pneumoniae 35c, E. coli polyvalent nosode 100c, and meropenem (positive control) showed inhibition of the growth of K. pneumoniae; this effect was not seen with ceftriaxone, ofloxacin and amoxicillin antibiotics. E. coli polyvalent nosode 30c in 10% alcohol (direct and dilution 1:1) and the positive controls ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and amoxicillin showed inhibition of the growth of E. coli. The S. typhi polyvalent nosode 30c in 10% alcohol showed inhibition of growth of S. typhi. CONCLUSION This study reveals that the tested nosodes exhibited antibacterial potential against the corresponding micro-organisms and against other selected organisms studied using this assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renuka Munshi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, TNMC & BYL Nair Ch. Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Gitanjali Talele
- Research department, Life Force Foundation Trust, Chembur, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rajesh Shah
- Research department, Life Force Foundation Trust, Chembur, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Pinto SAG, Nagai MYO, Alvares-Saraiva A, Peres GB, Waisse S, Perez EC, Bonamin LV. Silicea terra and Zincum metallicum Modulate the Activity of Macrophages Challenged with BCG In Vitro. HOMEOPATHY 2020; 110:52-61. [PMID: 33348418 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The homeopathic medicines Silicea terra (Sil) and Zincum metallicum (Zinc) modulate macrophage activity and were assessed in an experimental study in-vitro for their effects on macrophage-BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) interaction. METHODS RAW 264.7 macrophages were infected with BCG, treated with different potencies of Sil and Zinc (6cH, 30cH and 200cH) or vehicle, and assessed 24 and 48 h later for bacilli internalization, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and cytokine production, and lysosomal activity. RESULTS Treatment with vehicle was associated with non-specific inhibition of H2O2 production to the levels exhibited by uninfected macrophages. Sil 200cH induced significant reduction of H2O2 production (p < 0.001) compared with the vehicle and all other treatments, as well as higher lysosomal activity (p ≤ 0.001) and increased IL-10 production (p ≤ 0.05). Such effects were considered specific for this remedy and potency. The number of internalized bacilli was inversely proportional to Zinc potencies, with statistically significant interaction between dilution and treatment (p = 0.003). Such linear-like behavior was not observed for Sil dilutions: peak internalization occurred with the 30cH dilution, accompanied by cellular degeneration, and IL-6 and IL-10 increased (p ≤ 0.05) only in the cells treated with Sil 6cH. CONCLUSION Sil and Zinc presented different patterns of potency-dependent effect on macrophage activity. Bacterial digestion and a balanced IL-6/IL-10 production were related to Sil 6cH, though reduced oxidative stress with increased lysosomal activity was related to Sil 200cH. Degenerative effects were exclusively related to Sil 30cH, and potency-dependent phagocytosis was related only to Zinc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Augusta G Pinto
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mirian Yaeko O Nagai
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anuska Alvares-Saraiva
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovani B Peres
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Waisse
- Pontificia Universidade Católica de São Paulo, Graduation Program in History of Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth C Perez
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leoni Villano Bonamin
- Research Center, Graduation Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Universidade Paulista-UNIP, São Paulo, Brazil
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Kaur H, Azis S. Enabling use of Homoeopathy in India's preparedness for pandemic/epidemic situation like COVID-19. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HOMOEOPATHY 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijrh.ijrh_42_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Nayak D, Varanasi R. Homoeopathic nosodes, a neglected approach for epidemics: A critical review. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HOMOEOPATHY 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijrh.ijrh_46_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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Chaudhary A, Khurana A. A review on the role of Homoeopathy in epidemics with some reflections on COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HOMOEOPATHY 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijrh.ijrh_34_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Tavares-Silva C, Holandino C, Homsani F, Luiz RR, Prodestino J, Farah A, Lima JDP, Simas RC, Castilho CVV, Leitão SG, Maia LC, Fonseca-Gonçalves A. Homeopathic medicine of Melissa officinalis combined or not with Phytolacca decandra in the treatment of possible sleep bruxism in children: A crossover randomized triple-blinded controlled clinical trial. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 58:152869. [PMID: 30831467 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The present randomized controlled clinical trial evaluated the efficacy of homeopathic medicines of Melissa officinalis (MO), Phytolacca decandra (PD), and the combination of both in the treatment of possible sleep bruxism (SB) in children. STUDY DESIGN Patients (n = 52) (6.62 ± 1.79 years old) were selected based on the parents report of SB. The study comprised a crossover design that included 4 phases of 30-day treatment (Placebo; MO 12c; PD 12c; and MO 12c + PD 12c), with a wash-out period of 15 days between treatments. METHODS At baseline and after each phase, the Visual Analogic Scale (VAS) was used as the primary outcome measure to evaluate the influence of treatments on the reduction of SB. The following additional outcome measures were used: a children's sleep diary with parent's/guardian's perceptions of their children's sleep quality, the trait of anxiety scale (TAS) to identify changes in children's anxiety profile, and side effects reports. Data were analyzed by ANOVA with repeated measures followed by Post Hoc LSD test. RESULTS Significant reduction of SB was observed in VAS after the use of Placebo (-1.72 ± 0.29), MO (-2.36 ± 0.36), PD (-1.44 ± 0.28) and MO + PD (-2.21 ± 0.30) compared to baseline (4.91 ± 1.87). MO showed better results compared to PD (p = 0.018) and Placebo (p = 0.050), and similar result compared to MO+PD (p = 0.724). The sleep diary results and TAS results were not influenced by any of the treatments. No side effects were observed after treatments. CONCLUSION MO showed promising results in the treatment of possible sleep bruxism in children, while the association of PD did not improve MO results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Tavares-Silva
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | - Carla Holandino
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | - Fortune Homsani
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | - Ronir Raggio Luiz
- Institute for Studies in Public Health, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | - Jessica Prodestino
- Institute for Studies in Public Health, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | - Adriana Farah
- Nutrition Institute, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Lucianne Cople Maia
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil
| | - Andréa Fonseca-Gonçalves
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ, Brazil.
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Shah R. Preparation and standardisation of Plasmodium falciparum nosode. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HOMOEOPATHY 2019. [DOI: 10.4103/ijrh.ijrh_38_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Rodrigues de Santana F, de Paula Coelho C, Cardoso TN, Perez Hurtado EC, Roberti Benites N, Dalastra Laurenti M, Villano Bonamin L. Modulation of inflammation response to murine cutaneous Leishmaniasis by homeopathic medicines: Antimonium crudum 30cH. HOMEOPATHY 2018; 103:264-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2014.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Revised: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoan parasites of the mononuclear phagocytic system. The modulation activity of these cells can interfere in the host/parasite relationship and influences the prognosis.Methods: We evaluated the effects of the homeopathic preparation Antimonium crudum 30cH on experimental infection induced by Leishmania (L.) amazonensis. Male Balb/c mice were inoculated with 2 × 106 Leishmania (L.) amazonensis promastigotes into the footpad and, after 48 h (acute phase) or 60 days (chronic phase), cell population of lymphocytes and phagocytes present in the peritoneal washing fluid and spleen were analyzed by flow cytometry and histopathology, with histometry of the subcutaneous primary lesion, local lymph node and spleen. Immunohistochemistry was performed to quantify CD3 (T lymphocyte), CD45RA (B lymphocyte) and CD11b (phagocytes) positive cells.Results: In treated mice, during the acute phase, there was significant increase of the macroscopic lesion, associated to inflammatory edema, as well increase in the number of free amastigotes and B lymphocytes inside the lesion. Increase of B lymphocytes (predominantly B-2 cells) was also seen in the local lymph node, spleen and peritoneum. In the chronic phase, the inflammatory process in the infection focus was reduced, with reduced phagocyte migration and peritoneal increase of B-1a cells (precursors of B-2 immunoglobulin producers cells) and T CD8+ cells.Conclusion: The treatment of mice with Antimonium crudum 30cH induced a predominantly B cell pattern of immune response in Leishmania (L.) amazonensis experimental infection, alongside the increase of free amastigote forms number in the infection site. The clinical significance of this study is discussed, further studies are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Rodrigues de Santana
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Research Center of University Paulista, Rua Dr Bacelar, 1212 – 4th Floor, 04026-002 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cidéli de Paula Coelho
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Research Center of University Paulista, Rua Dr Bacelar, 1212 – 4th Floor, 04026-002 São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, University of Santo Amaro, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thayná Neves Cardoso
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Research Center of University Paulista, Rua Dr Bacelar, 1212 – 4th Floor, 04026-002 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth Cristina Perez Hurtado
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Research Center of University Paulista, Rua Dr Bacelar, 1212 – 4th Floor, 04026-002 São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Immunology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Leoni Villano Bonamin
- Graduate Program in Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Research Center of University Paulista, Rua Dr Bacelar, 1212 – 4th Floor, 04026-002 São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, University of Santo Amaro, São Paulo, Brazil
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de Paula Coelho C, Motta PD, Petrillo M, de Oliveira Iovine R, Dalboni LC, Santana FR, Correia MSF, Casarin RCV, Carvalho VM, Bonamin LV. Homeopathic medicine Cantharis modulates uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC)-induced cystitis in susceptible mice. Cytokine 2017; 92:103-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Marinone C, Bastard M, Bonnet PA, Gentile G, Casanova L. [Effectiveness of preventive treatment by Influenzinum in the winter period against the onset of influenza-like illnesses]. Therapie 2017; 72:465-474. [PMID: 28341159 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2016.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM In vitro Influenzinum induce a cellular change. We present the results of the first study examining the effectiveness of Influenzinum against influenza-like illnesses. METHOD Retrospective cohort study during winter 2014-2015. After influenza epidemic, a self-assessment questionnaire was offered to patients presenting for a consultation. The primary endpoint was the declaration of an influenza-like illness. The exposed patients (treated by Influenzinum) were matched to two non-exposed patients (untreated) with a propensity score. A conditional logistic model expressed influenza-like illness risk reduction provided by the Influenzinum. RESULTS The cohort included 3514 patients recruited from 46 general practitioners. After matching, the treated group (n=2041) and the untreated group (n=482) did not differ on variables collected. Influenzinum preventive therapy does not significantly alter the likelihood of influenza-like illness (adjusted odds ratio=0,91 [0,62 to 1,35], p=0,64). CONCLUSION Influenzinum preventive therapy did not appear effective in preventing influenza-like illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charline Marinone
- Département de médecine générale, Aix-Marseille université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - Mehdi Bastard
- Département de médecine générale, Aix-Marseille université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - Pierre-André Bonnet
- Département de médecine générale, Aix-Marseille université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - Gaétan Gentile
- Département de médecine générale, Aix-Marseille université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - Ludovic Casanova
- Département de médecine générale, Aix-Marseille université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France.
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Saxena SK, Chitti SV, Gadugu S. Complementary and alternative medicine in alliance with conventional medicine for influenza therapeutics and prevention. Future Virol 2016. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2016-0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra K Saxena
- Department of Stem Cell & Cell Culture, Centre for Advance Research (CFAR), King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow 226003 (UP), India
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500007 (TS), India
| | - Sai V Chitti
- Department of Stem Cell & Cell Culture, Centre for Advance Research (CFAR), King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow 226003 (UP), India
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500007 (TS), India
| | - Srinivasulu Gadugu
- Department of Stem Cell & Cell Culture, Centre for Advance Research (CFAR), King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow 226003 (UP), India
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Pinto IC, Cerqueira-Coutinho CS, Santos EP, Carmo FA, Ricci-Junior E. Development and characterization of repellent formulations based on nanostructured hydrogels. Drug Dev Ind Pharm 2016; 43:67-73. [PMID: 27483992 DOI: 10.1080/03639045.2016.1220564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Diseases caused by insects could lead to epidemic scenarios in urban areas and insect repellents are a shield against a wide range of insects, but they need to be safe without compromising efficacy. Ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate (EB) is a synthetic mosquito repellent, which could be used in products for adults and children due to its low-allergenic potential. The aim of this study was to develop and characterize EB and Poloxamer 407 nanoemulsions regarding their droplets mean size, pH, rheological properties, cytotoxicity and in vitro permeation profile. The developed formulations (F1 with 12.5% of EB and F2 with 25% of EB) were compared with a commercial formulation containing 12.5% of EB. Droplets mean size was determined by DLS, and for both nanoemulsions they were around 200 nm; however, the commercial formulation presented a droplets mean size of 10 nm, which could contribute to its high permeation. F1 and F2 presented a gel-like behavior, however F2 presented lower viscosity due to the presence of more EB between the polymer chains preventing them to interact with each other. Also, F2 was less retained by the epidermis when compared to F1 probably due to its lower viscosity. For the cytotoxicity assay only F2, which presented the highest concentration of EB was tested, and it was not toxic to the cells. This result could be also extended to F1 which presented half the EB concentration. The present study demonstrated that EB and Poloxamer 407 nanoemulsions are promising as new insect-repellent formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isadora C Pinto
- a College of Pharmacy , Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | | | | | - Flavia A Carmo
- a College of Pharmacy , Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Eduardo Ricci-Junior
- a College of Pharmacy , Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
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Homeopathic treatments modify inflammation but not behavioral response to influenza antigen challenge in BALB/c mice. HOMEOPATHY 2016; 105:257-264. [PMID: 27473547 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza affects thousands of people worldwide every year, motivating the development of new therapies. In this work, the effects of two homeopathic preparations (influenza biotherapies and thymulin) were chosen following two different rationales: isotherapy and endo-isotherapy models. The homeopathic effects were evaluated individually considering the inflammatory and behavioral responses against influenza virus antigen were studied in BALB/c mice. METHODS Male adult mice were treated orally and blindly for 21 days with highly diluted influenza virus or with thymulin, and were divided in two sets of experiments. The first series of experiments aimed to describe their behavior, using an open field (OF) device. In the second series, mice were challenged subcutaneously with influenza hemagglutinin antigen (7 μg/200 μl) at day 21. At day 42, behavior and inflammation response were evaluated. RESULTS No behavioral changes were seen in OF tests at any time point after treatments. Flow cytometry and morphometry revealed significant changes in T and B cell balance after influenza antigen challenge, varying according to treatment. CONCLUSION The results show that both homeopathic treatments induced subtle changes in acquired immune anti-viral response regulation. A deeper understanding of the mechanism could elucidate their possible use in influenza epidemiological situations.
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Cerqueira-Coutinho CS, De Campo VEB, Rossi AL, Veiga VF, Holandino C, Freitas ZMF, Ricci-Junior E, Mansur CRE, Santos EP, Santos-Oliveira R. Comparing in vivo biodistribution with radiolabeling and Franz cell permeation assay to validate the efficacy of both methodologies in the evaluation of nanoemulsions: a safety approach. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 27:015101. [PMID: 26605997 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/27/1/015101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The Franz cells permeation assay has been performed for over 25 years. However, the advent of nanotechnology created a whole new world, especially with regard to topical products. In this new global scenario an increasing number of nanostructure-based delivery systems (NDSs) have emerged and a global warning relating to the safety of these NDSs is arising. This work studied the efficacy of the Franz cells assay, comparing it with the radiolabeling biodistribution test. For this purpose a formulation of sunscreen based on an NDS was developed and characterized. The results demonstrated both that the NDS did not present in vitro cytotoxicity and that the radiolabeling biodistribution test is more precise for the evaluation of NDS cosmetics than the Franz cells assay, since it detected the permeation of the NDS at a picogram order. Due to this fact, and considering all the concerns related to NDSs and nanoparticles in general, more precise methods must be used in order to guarantee the safe use of these new classes of products.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Cerqueira-Coutinho
- Institute of Macromolecules, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Immunological models in high dilution research following M Bastide. HOMEOPATHY 2015; 104:263-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Siqueira CM, Homsani F, da Veiga VF, Lyrio C, Mattos H, Passos SRL, Couceiro JN, Quaresma CH. Homeopathic medicines for prevention of influenza and acute respiratory tract infections in children: blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. HOMEOPATHY 2015; 105:71-7. [PMID: 26828000 DOI: 10.1016/j.homp.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2014] [Revised: 10/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Influenza and its complications are common at all ages, especially in children. Vaccines and anti-influenza drugs aim to prevent it. Preventative approaches with favorable risk profiles should be considered for flu, particularly since the evidence of the efficacy of anti-viral drugs is debated. METHODS This pragmatic clinical trial was conducted in the Brazilian Public Health System in Petrópolis (BPHSP) with children aged from 1 to 5 years old. The medications used were mainly selected based on in vitro experiments (InfluBio), and in successful qualitative clinical experiences (Homeopathic Complex). Following informed parental consent, subjects were randomly distributed, in a blind manner, to three experimental groups: Homeopathic Complex, Placebo, and InfluBio. BPHSP health agents collected flu and acute respiratory infection symptomatic episodes monthly following the established protocol. The number of these episodes was registered in one year (2009-2010). RESULTS Out of the 600 children recruited, 445 (74.17%) completed the study (149: Homeopathic complex; 151: Placebo; 145: InfluBio). The number of flu and acute respiratory infection symptomatic episodes detected in this clinical trial was low; however, it was different between homeopathic groups and placebo (p < 0.001). In the first year post-intervention, 46/151 (30.5%) of children in the placebo group developed 3 or more flu and acute respiratory infection episodes, while there was no episode in the group of 149 children who used Homeopathic Complex, and only 1 episode in the group of 145 (1%) children who received InfluBio. CONCLUSION These results suggested that the use of homeopathic medicines minimized the number of flu and acute respiratory infection symptomatic episodes in children, signalizing that the homeopathic prophylactic potential should be investigated in further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Monteiro Siqueira
- Departamento de Medicamentos-Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Instituto Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fortune Homsani
- Departamento de Medicamentos-Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Venício Féo da Veiga
- Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - José Nelson Couceiro
- Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carla Holandino Quaresma
- Departamento de Medicamentos-Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Petridis D, Zarogoulidis P, Kallianos A, Kioumis I, Trakada G, Spyratos D, Papaiwannou A, Porpodis K, Huang H, Rapti A, Hohenforst-Schmidt W, Zarogoulidis K. Clinical differences between H3N2 and H1N1 influenza 2012 and lower respiratory tract infection found using a statistical classification approach. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2014; 10:77-86. [PMID: 24532970 PMCID: PMC3923611 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s57429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 are two influenza waves that have been identified in past years. Methods Data from 77 inpatients from three tertiary hospitals were included and statistical analysis was performed in three different clusters. Results Thirty-four patients (44.2%) had respiratory distress upon admission, 31.2% had a smoking history or were active smokers, 37.7% manifested disease symptoms, and 7.8% were obese (body mass index >41). The mean age of patients was 51.1 years. Cough was the most common symptom observed in 77.9% of the patients, accompanied by sputum production (51.9%) and fatigue (42.9%). Hemoptysis and vomiting were rarely recorded in the patients (9.1% and 16.9%, respectively). Oseltamivir administration varied between 0 and 10 days, giving a mean value of 2.2 days. In particular, 19 patients received no drug, 31 patients received drug for only for 1 day, 19 patients for 5 days, and 8 patients from 2 to 10 days. Conclusion Clusters of symptoms can be used to identify different types of influenza and disease severity. Patients with vaccination had pneumonia, whereas patients without vaccination had influenza A. Patients more than 54.5 years old had H3N2 and patients less than 54.5 years had H1N1. White blood cell count values increased from normal to elevated in H3N2 patients but still remained abnormal in lower tract infection and H1N1 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Petridis
- Department of Food Technology, Alexander Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Paul Zarogoulidis
- Pulmonary Department, "G Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece ; Department of Interventional Pneumology, Ruhrlandklinik, West German Lung Center, University Hospital, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Ioannis Kioumis
- Pulmonary Department, "G Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgia Trakada
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Division of Pneumonology, Medical School, National University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dionysios Spyratos
- Pulmonary Department, "G Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Antonis Papaiwannou
- Pulmonary Department, "G Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Porpodis
- Pulmonary Department, "G Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Haidong Huang
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, Changhai Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of the Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Aggeliki Rapti
- 2nd Pulmonary Department, "Sotiria" Hospital for Chest Diseases, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos Zarogoulidis
- Pulmonary Department, "G Papanikolaou" General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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