Ershiwuwei Shanhu Pills regulate Akt/mTOR/GSK-3β signaling pathway to alleviate Alzheimer's disease mice / 中国中药杂志

The present study investigated the mechanism of the Tibetan patent medicine Ershiwuwei Shanhu Pills(ESP) in alleviating Alzheimer's disease in mice via Akt/mTOR/GSK-3β signaling pathway. BALB/c mice were randomly assigned into a blank control group, a model group, low(200 mg·kg~(-1)), medium(400 mg·kg~(-1)) and high(800 mg·kg~(-1)) dose groups of ESP, and donepezil hydrochloride group. Except the blank control group, the other groups were given 20 mg·kg~(-1) aluminum chloride by gavage and 120 mg·kg~(-1) D-galactose by intraperitoneal injection for 56 days to establish Alzheimer's disease model. Morris water maze was used to detect the learning and memory ability of mice. The level of p-tau protein in mouse hippocampus and the levels of superoxide dismutase(SOD), malondialdehyde(MDA), catalase(CAT), and total antioxidant capacity(T-AOC) in hippocampus and serum were detected. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and Nissl staining were performed for the pathological observation of whole brain in mice. TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling(TUNEL) staining was employed for the observation of apoptosis in mouse cortex. Western blot was adopted to detect the protein levels of p-mTOR, p-Akt, and GSK-3β in the hippocampus. Compared with the model group, the ESP groups showcased alleviated pathological damage of the whole brain, decreased TUNEL positive cells, reduced level of p-tau protein in hippocampus, and risen SOD, CAT, and T-AOC levels and declined MDA level in hippocampus and serum. Furthermore, the ESP groups had up-regulated protein levels of p-mTOR and p-Akt while down-regulated protein level of GSK-3β in hippocampus. Therefore, ESP can alleviate the learning and memory decline and oxidative damage in mice with Alzheimer's disease induced by D-galactose combined with aluminum chloride, which may be related to Akt/mTOR/GSK-3β signaling pathway.

Effect of two hemostatic agents on the bonding strength of total-etch and self-etch adhesive systems in primary tooth dentin / 口腔疾病防治

Objective @#To explore the effects of two hemostatic agents on the bonding strength of different bonding systems in primary tooth dentin.@*Methods @# Seventy-two retained deciduous teeth were randomly selected. Forty-eight teeth were used to construct the microleakage model, the other 24 teeth were cut along the mesial and distal directions and 48 samples were obtained to construct the shear bond strength model. The two experiments were divided into 2 groups. Group A was the total-etch group: A1 (ViscoStat + Spectrum Bond NT); A2 (ViscoStat Clear + Spectrum Bond NT); and A3 (Non + Spectrum Bond NT); Group B was the self-etch group: B1 (ViscoStat + Single bond Universal Adhesive); B2 (ViscoStat Clear + Single bond Universal Adhesive); and B3 (Non + Single bond Universal Adhesive). Microleakage experiments and shear bond strength experiments were carried out respectively and the morphology of the fracture surface was observed by scanning electron microscopy.@* Results @#There was no significant difference in microleakage among groups A1, A2, and A3 (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in microleakage among groups B1, B2, and B3 (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the shear bond strength among groups A1, A2 and A3 (P > 0.05). The shear bond strength of groups B1 and B2 was significantly lower than that of group B3 (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between groups B1 and B2 (P > 0.05). @*Conclusion@#ViscoStat and ViscoStat Clear had no effect on the marginal integrity of deciduous tooth dentin under the different bonding systems. The two hemostatic agents reduced the shear bonding strength of deciduous tooth dentin under the self-etch adhesive system, but had no effect on the shear bonding strength of deciduous tooth dentin under the total-etch adhesive system.

New Insights on Nigella Sativa’s Protective Effect against High Fat Diet Induced Alteration in Small Intestine and Liver of Rats: a Biochemical and Histological Study

Background: Excessive consumption of High Fat Diet (HFD) harmfully impacts body tissues and organs. Interestingly, there is a highconcern towards the use of medicinal plants to ameliorate those harmful effects. Objectives: This study is aimed at investigating the effectivepossibility of Nigella Sativa (NS) seeds powder on liver and small intestine of the rats fed on HFD using biochemical, histological andmorphometric techniques. Material and Methods: Eighteen adult male albino rats were randomly divided into three equal groups. Group I(control) was fed on standard rat pellets chow, Group II (HFD) was fed on standard diet mixed butter (20% fat of diet) and Group III (HFD+ NS) was fed on HFD and concomitantly administrated Nigella sativa (300 mg/Kg daily orally) for 8 weeks. The biochemical studyincluded lipid profile assessment and the histological study included paraffin sections of small intestine and liver stained by Hematoxylinand Eosin, Masson-trichrome for liver collagen and PAS for intestinal Goblet cells to evaluate the histological alteration. Quantitativestatistical analysis of area percent of liver collagen content and goblet cells was done using Digital pro-image analysis. Results: HFD wasassociated with increased serum lipid profile. The histological analysis of hepatic sections revealed abundant fat deposition, inflammatorycell infiltrate, degeneration of hepatocytes with significant increase of collagen fibers as shown by image analysis. Inflammatory changeswith significant reduction in the mean area percent of Goblet cells were observed in intestine of HFD group. NS intake significantly loweredserum level of total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL, in concomitant with reversed HFD-induced histological alteration by decreasinghepatic collagen deposition and increasing intestinal goblet cells. Conclusion: Biochemical, histological and morphometric resultsprovided further evidence that crude NS seeds powder can ameliorate high fat diet–induced alteration in liver and small intestinesuggesting its beneficial use in preventive medicine.

Ginkgo biloba Mitigates Aluminum Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Ginkgois a large tree with fan-shaped leaves. The leaves are often orally taken by individuals with memory deficits such as Alzheimer's diseaseand to improve blood flow to the brain in older people. Aim of the Study: We evaluated the protective effects of Ginkgo bilobaagainst aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced neurotoxicity Study Design: Eighty male albino rats were divided into four main groups (n = 20 per group) and provided with varyingdoses and combinations of AlCl3 and/or Ginkgo biloba(GB) in drinking water, DW. The treatments were administrated daily for 12 weeks. Results: Ginkgo bilobaextract caused a significant increase in brain neurotransmitters contents [Norepinephrine (NE), Serotonin (5-HT) and Dopamine (DA)] of intoxicated adult male albino rats. The plant extract also improved aluminum induced disruption of tissue architecture and significantly reduced DNA damage as indicated by reduction in different comet assay parametersin the brain of intoxicated rats during the entire experimental period.Conclusions:Gingko bilobahas protective effects against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity. Its mechanisms of action appears to be mediated by increasing monoamine neurotransmitter synthesis, and improving the integrity of DNA and tissue architecture in the brain.

Evaluation of antioxidant effect of Salacia oblonga against aluminum chloride induced visceral toxicity in albino rats.

Background: Aluminum is present in several manufactured foods and medicines and is also used in water purifi cation. It is known that aluminum induces an oxidative stress characterized by an increase in lipid peroxidation and depletion of antioxidants. Therefore, the present experiment was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of hydroalcoholic extract of root bark of Salacia oblonga (SOHE) in modulating the aluminum chloride (AlCl3) induced oxidative stress in rats. Methods: Animals were assigned into four groups: control; AlCl3 300 mg/kg b.w.; Salacia 67 mg/kg; AlCl3 (300 mg/kg b.w.) plus Salacia (67 mg/kg b.w.), respectively. Rats were orally administered their respective doses daily for 36 days. The effect of these treatments in infl uencing the aluminum induced biochemical changes on liver, kidney, lungs, and heart were studied. Result: The results showed that S. oblonga produced signifi cant (p<0.05) reduction of malondialdehyde, while the activities of superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, glutathione S-transferase and catalase were positively modulated. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated that S. oblonga protects against aluminuminduced oxidative stress, which is an important fi nding that further reinforces the antioxidant properties of this natural product.

Allergic to Pool Water

To identify the allergy problem of a 36-year old swimming instructor, who experiences heavy itching and rashes whenever she comes in contact with pool water. Patch tests were performed with European standard series and materials from the work floor. A positive patch test to aluminum chloride and flocculant was observed. Occupational dermatitis is, based on a contact allergy to aluminum chloride in the flocculant.

Comparative Study of 20% Aluminum Chloride Solution and Botulinum Toxin A Injection in the Treatment of Patients with Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis carries a substantial psychological and social burden. Early detection and management can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. A large number of therapeutic options are used, such as the application of topical agents, iontophoresis, sympathectomy, and botulinum toxin injection. OBJECTIVE: We aim to comprehensively evaluate the effects of botulinum toxin type A and 20% aluminum chloride on primary palmar hyperhidrosis. METHODS: A total of 55 patients with clinical diagnosis of primary hyperhidrosis were treated by botulinum toxin type A and 20% aluminum chloride solution. To prospectively assess the effects on primary palmar hyperhidrosis, we checked corneometer at baseline, 2 and 4 months later. By regular meetings with patients, including telephone interviews, we analyzed patients' subjective satisfaction scores and complaints during the follow=up periods. RESULTS: During the 2-month period, as compared with that of the control group, the level of corneometer of both groups declined. In the 4-month period, the group treated with 20% aluminum chloride sustained a lower level of corneometer. In the questionnaire, in the 2-month period, the group treated with botulinum toxin resulted in a lower level of overall treatment scores than that of the group treated with 20% aluminum chloride. However, in the 4-month period, the group treated with aluminum chloride showed lower scores. CONCLUSION: Both botulinum toxin type A and aluminum chloride solution were safe and well tolerated, producing high levels of patient satisfaction. However, considering the long-term efficacy of treatment, aluminum chloride may be a more suitable mode of treatment for primary palmar hyperhidrosis.

Effects of 20% Aluminum Chloride in Axillary Hyperhidrosis not Accompanying Osmidrosis

OBJECTIVE: Surgical treatment of focal axillary hyperhidrosis is often unsatisfactory because of compensatory hyperhidrosis. The purpose of this study is to evalute the effect of decreased sweating production using 20% aluminum chloride on axillary hyperhidrosis. METHODS: From February to December, 2002, 10 patients(mean age 25.2 male 2, female 8) with clinical diagnosis of axillary hyperhidrosis were treated by 20% aluminum chloride solution. Until the desired degree of symptom relief was obtained, they were educated to apply every day and thereafter, the agent would be applied as often as is necessary. We analyzed patient's satisfaction and application time at onset of desired dryness, application interval to maintain the relief of symptom and side effects. RESULTS: Aluminum chloride solution was effective in treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis showing excellent result in 60% of patients and good in 40%. Application time at onset of desired dryness ranged from 1 to 6 days(mean 3 days). Application interval to maintain the relief of symptom ranged from 5 to 45 days(mean 12 days). There were no significant complications but just mild irritation and miliaria in seven patients. CONCLUSION: 20% aluminum chloride solution is the simple, safe and less expensive method for initial treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis not accompanying osmidrosis.

Clinical Analysis on the Therapeutic Efficacy of 20% Aluminum Chloride Solution in Primary Hyperhidrosis / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: A large number of therapeutic options are used for the treatment of primary hyperhidrosis. These include application of topical agents, iontophoresis, sympathectomy and recently botulium toxin injection. But, It should be desirable as first treatment to choice a simple, safe, and less expensive method that also proved to be effective. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to clinically prove 20% aluminum chloride solution to deserve to be the initial choice of treatment modality for primary hyperhidrosis. METHODS: A total of 22 patients(mean age 24.1, male 3, female 19) with clinical diagnosis of primary hyperhidrosis were treated by 20% aluminum chloride solution. Until the desired degree of dryness was obtained, they were educated to apply everyday and thereafter, the agent would be applided as often as is necessary. By regular meeting including telephone interview, we analyzed patient satisfaction and other clinical parameters such as application time at onset of desired dryness, applicaton interval to maintain the relief of symptoms, and side effects during various follow-up periods. RESULT: Aluminum chloride solution was effective not only in axillary hyperhidrosis but also in palmoplantar hyperhidrosis(patient satisfaction, axillae:excellent, 12 of 16(75%); good, 4(25%), palms or soles:excellent, 3 of 6(50%); good, 2(33%)). Applicaton interval to maintain the relief of symptoms ranged from 5 to 60 days with mean 10 days. There were no significant complications(mild irritation 50%). CONCLUSION: Aluminum chloride solwtion is the simplest, safest and least expensive method for initial treatment of primary hyperhidrosis. And its effect could be maintainable for a relatively long-term period.

Effect and mechanism of JianNao mixture on function of learning and memory in mice / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

AIM: To observe the effect and mechanism of Chinese traditional medicine JianNao mixture on function of learning and memory in memory disorder mice. METHODS: Step down test, step through test and "Y" maze test were used to examine the function of learning and memory in memory disorder mice induced by scopolamine, sodium nitrite and alcohol, and in dementia model mice induced by D galactose and aluminum chloride. Cholinesterase activity in brain, LPO and SOD in blood were measured. RESULTS: JianNao mixture could promote both the learning and memory function in impaired acquisition, consolidation and retrieval of memory in memory disorder mice induced by scopolamine, sodium nitrite and alcohol, respectively. It also could reduce wrong times and prolong latency in mice's step through test, depress cholinesterase activity of brain in aluminum chloride model mice, reduce wrong times in mice's "Y" maze test, enhance SOD activity of whole blood and decrease LPO content of brain in D galactose model mice. CONCLUSION: JianNao mixture can improve the function of learning and memory in memory disorder mice. The mechanism may be due to improve the cholinergic function and the balance of free radical in vivo.

Efficacy of a 20% Aluminum Chloride in Alcohol Solution in the Treatment of Hyperhidrosis: A Study Using a Hydrometer

BACKGROUND: Excessive sweating, especially of the palms, soles and axillae, is a socially and an occupationally distressing, and sometimes disabling condition. A variety of treatment methods are used to reduce profuse sweating including topical agents, iontophoresis and symphatectomy. OBJECTIVE: We investigated whether a 20% aluminum chloride solution is efficient in the treatment of axillary and palmoplantar hyperhidrosis using a skin surface hydrometer. METHODS: We treated 31 patients (7; male, 24; female) by Drysol once a day at bedtime for four weeks. We had measured the conductances on the stratum corneum of the palms, soles and axillae using a skin surface hydrometer before and after treatment every week for four week RESULTS: There was a reduction of conductances after the treatment by Drysol (p<0.05). The reduction of conductances was continued for four weeks (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Drysol is an efficient, safe, and simple method for initial treatment of the primary hyperhidrosis.