The optimal Holmium laser settings for disintegration of cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones: In vitro study.

Objective: Disintegrating cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones present a formidable challenge owing to their hardness and distinct composition. This study aimed to establish optimal laser settings for these hard stones lithotripsy. Patients and Methods: Cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones were extracted from two patients. Two experiments were conducted in vitro by utilizing a 272 µm laser fiber with variable settings to disintegrate the cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones. In the first experiment, energy was adjustable while frequency was constant, whereas the second experiment involved constant energy with adjustable frequency on each type of stone and each experiment was repeated three times to ensure robustness and reliability. Results: Our findings indicated that for cystine stones, use of higher total power with high energy and low frequency proved to be effective. Conversely, for calcium oxalate monohydrate stones, settings involving higher total power with low energy and high frequency demonstrated superior efficacy and safety. Conclusion: Holmium (Ho: YAG) laser settings with higher total power, high energy, and low frequency effectively disintegrate cystine stones despite increased heat, which was measured by a thermometer with a thermocouple. For calcium oxalate monohydrate stones, higher total power, high frequency, and low energy settings are recommended and safe.

Antispasmodic and antidiarrheal effects of Juniperus oxycedrus L. on the jejunum in rodents.

Functional bowel disorders (FBD) have a major potential to degrade the standards of public life. Juniperus oxycedrus L. (J. oxycedrus) (Cupressaceae) has been described as a plant used in traditional medicine as an antidiarrheal medication. The present study is the first to obtain information on the antispasmodic and antidiarrheic effects of J. oxycedrus aqueous extract through in vitro and in vivo studies. An aqueous extract of J. oxycedrus (AEJO) was extracted by decoctioning air-dried aerial sections of the plant. Antispasmodic activity was tested in an isolated jejunum segment of rats exposed to cumulative doses of drogue extract. The antidiarrheic activity was tested using diarrhea caused by castor oil, a transit study of the small intestine, and castor oil-induced enteropooling assays in mice. In the jejunum of rats, the AEJO (0.1, 0.3 and 1 mg/ml) diminished the maximum tone induced by low K+ (25 mM), while it exhibited a weak inhibitory effect on high K+ (75 mM) with an IC50=0.49 ± 0.01 mg/ml and IC50=2.65 ± 0.16 mg/ml, respectively. In the contractions induced by CCh (10-6 M), AEJO diminished the maximum tone, similar to that induced by low K+ (25 mM). with an IC50=0.45 ± 0.02 mg/ml. The inhibitory effect of AEJO on low K+ induced contractions was significantly diminished in the presence of glibenclamide (GB) (0.3 µM) and 4-aminopyrimidine (4-AP) (100 µM), with IC50 values of 1.84 ± 0.09 mg/ml. and 1.63 ± 0.16 mg/ml, respectively). The demonstrated inhibitory effect was similar to that produced by a non-competitive antagonist acting on cholinergic receptors and calcium channels. In castor oil-induced diarrhea in mice, AEJO (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) caused an extension of the latency time, a reduced defecation frequency, and a decrease in the amount of wet feces compared to the untreated group (distilled water). Moreover, it showed a significant anti-motility effect and reduced the amount of fluid accumulated in the intestinal lumen at all tested doses. These findings support the conventional use of Juniperus oxycedrus L. as a remedy for gastrointestinal diseases.

The effect of Argania spinosa seed oil on diabetic nephropathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in Wistar rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Diabetes is a significant metabolic disease impacting many of the world's population. In Morocco, a wide range of medicinal plants has taken great importance in the treatment of diabetes, among these plants; we find Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels. AIM: The objective of our work is based on the evaluation of the effect of roasted (Roil) and unroasted (UnRoil) Argan seed oil on diabetic nephropathy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Roasted and unroasted oils from Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels seeds were examined for their effects on diabetic nephropathy using an experimental streptozotocin-induced model. Biochemical and histopathological analyses were conducted on blood and kidney samples to assess renal function and tissue damage. RESULTS: Both oils ameliorated significantly diabetic nephropathy symptoms. They limited the renal damage caused by streptozotocin and improved diabetes symptoms, including blood glucose levels, body weight, water intake, urinary volume, and kidney parameters. This activity could be elucidated by the antioxidant effect of Argan oil, enabling to neutralize free radicals and undertake a fundamental role in preventing the onset of these complications. CONCLUSION: Based on our findings, Argan oil could be used as dietary supplement for people with diabetes as a preventive measure against the emergence of diabetic complications.

Identification of early delirium and its outcomes after cardiopulmonary bypass among adult patients with cardiovascular disease: a prospective observational study.

Purpose: To identify the incidence and outcomes of postoperative delirium after cardiopulmonary bypass machine in adult cardiac surgery patients. Method: A prospective observational study was conducted in a single-center institution in the Republic of China. This study included 273 patients who underwent cardiac surgical procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass machine utilization. Results: This study used the Confusion Assessment Method to screen for delirium. Univariate analysis identified advanced age, emergency surgery and prolonged aortic cross-clamping time as significant predisposing factors for delirium, which occurred in 19.8% (n = 54) of cases and typically developed in average of 4.8 ± 3.28 days after the surgery. The analysis also identified that delirium was associated with increased complications and external referrals. A total of 142 patients (52.1%) were discharged to their homes, wherein the discharge rate in the delirium group was notably lower, with only 35.2% (n = 19) of patients, than in the delirium-free group with 56.2% (n = 123) of patients. Conclusion: Considering the increased probability of delirium-related complications following cardiac surgery, it is important to develop effective preventive strategies for patients with perioperative risk factors, such as advanced age, emergency surgery and prolonged cross-clamp time, by implementing practical measures to minimize the risk of delirium.

Investigating the risk factors of penile arterial insufficiency and veno-occlusive dysfunction in patients with erectile dysfunction.

Objective: To investigate the risk factors for penile arterial insufficiency (PAI), which is a known cause of erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods: Patients who attended our urology clinic complaining of ED for more than 6 months were prospectively enrolled in this study over 1-year period. Patient consent was taken and ethical committee approval. Complete medical history and thorough general and local examination including body mass index (BMI), Peyronie's disease (PD) and penile size measurements (length and girth) were done for all of them. Laboratory tests included testosterone, lipid profile and glycated haemoglobin (HA1c). A penile duplex ultrasound study (PDU) was done for all patients after intracavernosal injection (ICI) with alprostadil. Peak systolic velocity (PSV) and end-diastolic velocity (EDV) were measured after 15 min. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS. Results: A total of 440 patients were enrolled in this analysis. The mean age was 48(23-81), and the mean BMI was 30 (18-51). Older patients had lower PSV (r = -0.361, P = 0.000) and higher EDV (r = 0.174, P = 0.001), and both correlations were highly statistically significant. Diabetics had lower PSV (r = -0.318, P = 0.000) and higher EDV (r = 0.139, P = 0.008), which were also highly statistically significant. Smokers had lower PSV (r = -0.140, P = 0.008) and higher EDV (r = 0.178, P = 0.001), which were highly statistically significant. Men with larger penises measured skin to tip had lower EDV (r = -0.119, P = 0.024), which was less significant. Interestingly, there was neither a significant correlation between BMI and PSV (0.16, P = 0.745) nor a significant correlation between testosterone and PSV (0.029, P = 0.552). Also, there was no correlation between PSV and both dyslipidaemia and penile PD. Conclusions: Ageing, tobacco consumption, DM and hypertension seem to have a negative impact on penile haemodynamics, which was statistically significant. In our patients, there was no statistically significant effect on penile haemodynamics in patients with increased BMI, low testosterone or PD or according to the size of the penis.

Medial deviation of the ureter is a new sign that could predict stone impaction: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the value medial deviation of the ureter at site of ureteric stone as a sign of ureteric stone impaction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: All cases with medial deviation of the ureter at site of ureteric stones in our department over 4 years were enrolled in this pilot study. All cases were diagnosed with KUB and non-contrast CT (NCCT). Radiological and ureteroscopic findings were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 32 patients with a single impacted stone in the proximal and middle third of the ureter were included in the study. Medial deviation of the ureter at the site of the stone was detected in the upper third of the ureter in 24 (75%) cases and in the middle third in 8 (25%) cases. There were mucosal polyps and mucosal erythema (inflammatory changes) seen by ureteroscopy in all cases (100%). Ureteroscopy was successfully completed with stone fragmentation in 23 (71.8%) patients: 8 of them needed ureteric catheter and 15 required JJ stent insertion. Failure of ureteroscopy with insertion of JJ stent was done in 5 (15.6%) patients. Removal of the stent and ureteroscopy was done after 4 weeks. CONCLUSION: We conclude from this study that medial deviation of the ureter is a new reliable radiological sign of ureteric stone impaction.

Myorelaxant and antispasmodic effects of the essential oil of Artemisia campestris L., and the molecular docking of its major constituents with the muscarinic receptor and the L-type voltage-gated Ca2+channel.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Gastrointestinal disorders are among the most common diseases that cause discomfort to people who are affected. In Morocco, aromatic and medicinal plants are widely used to calm these pains and eliminate their symptoms. Among these plants, Artemisia campestris L. which is used in eastern Morocco to treat digestive system problems. AIM OF THE STUDY: Our study aimed to experimentally verify the traditional use of this plant by evaluating the myorelaxant and antispasmodic effects of the essential oil of Artemisia campestris L. (EOAc). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis (GC-MS) was performed to identify the compounds present in the EOAc. Then, these molecules were subjected to the in silico study for molecular docking. The myorelaxant and antispasmodic evaluation of the EOAc were tested in vitro on an isolated rabbit and rat jejunum mounted on an organ bath. Then, an isotonic transducer connected to an amplifier recorded the graph related to intestinal contractility. RESULTS: GC-MS analysis of the essential oil of Artemisia campestris L. showed the presence of m-Cymene (17.308%), Spathulenol (16.785%), ß Pinene (15.623%), α Pinene (11.352%), α.-Campholenal (8.848%) as main constituents. The EOAc gave a dose-dependent and reversible myorelaxant effect on the spontaneous contractions of jejunum isolated from rabbits, with an IC50 equal to 72.16 ± 15.93 µg/mL. This effect did not occur through adrenergic receptors. The EOAc has an antispasmodic effect on the contractions of rat jejunal induced by a medium with low (25 mM) or high concentration (75 mM) of KCl, and carbachol 10-6 M. The obtained inhibitory effects are comparable to those of a non-competitive antagonist of cholinergic receptors. The major compounds of EOAc allowed the establishment of a relationship between these phytoconstituents and the antispasmodic effect found by the EOAc. The obtained results are also supported by a docking study. CONCLUSION: The obtained results confirm favorably the use of Artemisia campestris L. in traditional Moroccan medicine for the treatment of digestive tract illness, which gives us a new route to valorize the effects obtained by a phytomedicine specific for the digestive tract.

Effects of Walnut Bark Extract on the Human Platelet Aggregation, Adhesion, and Plasmatic Coagulation In Vitro.

Thrombosis is the formation of a clot within a blood vessel. Antithrombotic drugs are used for treating thrombosis, which can be the cause of hemorrhage. Currently, there is a need to discover novel antithrombotic drugs. Walnut is widely used to treat a wide range of health complaints. In this study, walnut bark extract was tested in hemostasis parameters: platelets adhesion, aggregation, and plasmatic coagulation in human blood. The crude aqueous extract of walnut bark was prepared by infusion and tested in vitro on hemostasis. Through blood collection from healthy volunteer donors, we studied different parameters of the primary hemostasis: platelet adhesion on the collagen-coated surface under flow, ADP, collagen, thrombin, and arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation, and of the secondary hemostasis by measuring prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin (APTT) parameters. All experiments are realized in the absence and presence of the extract and repeated at least twice. The obtained data showed that the extract (1 and 2 mg/mL) significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the activated platelet adhesion on the collagen-coated surface. In the same way, the effect of the extract on platelet aggregation seems to depend on its concentration and on the nature of the agonist. The strongest inhibition of aggregation was observed in the case of collagen at 1 mg/mL, while there was no observed effect on arachidonic acid-induced aggregation. Moreover, the extract (1 mg/mL) affects the extrinsic, intrinsic, and common pathways of the human blood coagulation cascade by extending significantly (p < 0.001), both PT and APTT times. This study provides evidence that walnut bark extract, by its antiadhesive, antiaggregant, and anticoagulant activities, could be considered as a serious source of biological compounds for the prevention and treatment of thrombosis.

Antioxidant Activity and Inhibition of Carbohydrate Digestive Enzymes Activities of Artemisia campestris L.

BACKGROUND: Carbohydrate digestive enzymes play a major role in the management of the postprandial hyperglycemia. A chronic hyperglycemia can lead to serious health problems due to excessive production of several reactive oxygen species. Therefore, the inhibition of carbohydrate digestive enzyme and the use of antioxidant natural product can be an important strategy to control the glycaemia level and prevent against the complication of diabetes. AIM: The study aims to perform a phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activity, inhibitory effect on α -amylase, α -glucosidase (in vitro and in vivo) and the intestinal glucose absorption in Wistar rats of Artemisia campestris aqueous extract (AcAE) and hydro-ethanolic extract (AcEE). RESULTS: The test of total phenolic content, show that the AcAE has the highest quantity of polyphenol (44.65 ± 0.54 µ g GAE/mg extract) compared to the AcEE (31.7 ± 0.53 µ g GAE/mg extract) significantly. The amount of flavonoid and condensed tannins content in AcAE is 24.41 ± 3.57 µ g QrE/mg extract, 14.31 ± 5.26 µ g CE/mg respectively. The AcAE has also exhibit a great antioxidant activity in DPPH-scavenging and Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) compared to AcEE with an IC 50 = 0.355 ± 0.057 mg/mL and IC 50 = 0.269 ± 0.025 mg/mL. However, in a ß -carotene bleaching assay the AcEE has the highest effect with an IC 50 = 0.319 ± 0.097 mg/mL. The both extract of Artemisia campestris L. (250 mg/kg) decreased postprandial hyperglycemia in the normal and alloxane diabetic rats in a very significant manner after starch or sucrose administration as an α -amylase and α -glucosidase substrate respectively. This result is confirmed in vitro by a remarkable inhibitory effect on α -amylase digestive enzymes by an IC 50 = 1.259 ± 0.128 mg/mL and IC 50 = 0.602 ± 0.072 mg/mL receptively for AcAE and AcEE. For the α -glucosidase enzyme, the both extracts significantly inhibit α -glucosidase activity compared to the control and they are almost similar to each other. Using a jejunum perfusion technique (in situ), Artemisia campestris L. decrease the intestinal D-glucose absorption activity significantly compared to the control and comparable to the Phlorizin used as a positive control by an amount of glucose absorbed equal a 6.53 ± 0.57, 5.34 ± 0.64 and 4.71 ± 0.24 mg/10 cm/h, for AcAE, AcEE and Phlorizin respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These results showed that the Artemisia campestris L. has highest phenolic content, antioxidant activity and demonstrated a postprandial anti-hyperglycemic effect via the inhibiting of the carbohydrate digestive enzyme ( α -amylase and α -glucosidase) and the intestinal glucose absorption.

The Antispasmodic Effect of Warionia saharae Essential Oil in Experimental Models and its Mechanism of Action.

With several medicinal and aromatic species, the Asteraceae family is one of the largest angiosperm families. The genus Warionia is represented in this family by only one species, Warionia saharae. In Moroccan traditional medicine, this species is widely used to treat gastrointestinal problems. Essential oil of this plant (EoWs) was studied for possible myorelaxant and antispasmodic activities to rationalize some of the traditional uses. In this investigation, hydrodistillation was used to obtain the essential oil from the aerial part of the dry plant extract (EoWs), which was then analyzed using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The major compounds identified in the EoWs are nerolidyl acetate (21.44%), ß-Eudesmol (19.47%), linalool (16.48%), 1-terpinene-4-ol (10.93%), and cineole (5.34%). EoWs is relatively safe in the case of acute intake up to 2 g/kg body weight of albino mice. The effect of EoWs on intestinal relaxation was investigated using rabbit and rat jejunal smooth muscle. We have noticed that EoWs produce a myorelaxation on basal rabbit jejunum's contractions in a concentration-dependent manner with a maximal effect at 30 µg/mL. This myorelaxation was not dependent on adrenergic receptors. When the rat jejunums were pre-contracted with 25 mM KCl or 10 µM Carbachol (CCh), EoWs had an antispasmodic action with an IC50 values of 15.76 ± 0.37 and 12.04 ± 0.30 µg/mL, respectively. Preliminary results showed that it is probable that our plant might act directly through the NO and guanylate cyclase signaling pathway and on muscarinic but not nicotinic receptors. The results reveal that the Essential oil of W. saharae appears to have an impact on intestinal relaxation in vitro conditions. This finding lends credence to the traditional usage of this plant to treat intestinal disorders.

Malleable Penile Implant Rod Diameter Predicts Complications and Patient Satisfaction.

BACKGROUND: One of the most common complaints after malleable prosthesis implantation (MPI) is thinning of the penis and decreasing girth. Some surgeons try to insert the largest diameter they can to improve patient satisfaction AIM: To investigate if malleable rod diameter (MRD) has an impact on outcome and patient satisfaction METHODS: Consecutive malleable prosthesis implantation (MPI) was assessed in a high-volume center over 1 year. The same preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative protocols were used for all patients and one brand of the malleable device was used only. We recorded MRD and length for all patients. All patients had data on comorbidities including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and clinical Peyronie's disease (PD). Revision cases and those who lost for follow-up were excluded from the study. We also excluded patients operated on by low-volume surgeons. All complications, minor (edema, ecchymosis, pain), and major (infection and erosion) were recorded. After 1-year, patients were assessed and given a Likert scale from 1 to 5 where 5 is most satisfied with their MPI. We stratified patients according to MRD into 2 groups: group A for diameter 9.5 and 11 mm and group B for 13 mm. OUTCOME: Larger diameter of malleable penile implants may be associated with more complications RESULTS: 183 patients had full data and filled the questionnaire after 1-year follow-up. All patients had Coloplast, Genesis penile implants. Major complications rate (infection, erosion, and removal) was significantly higher in group B 11% vs 1.2% in group A (P = .016). At 4 weeks postoperative visit, 90 % of group A showed no complications vs 60% only in group B that was statistically significant (P = .0003). Satisfaction rate was more in patients in group A (88.6%) compared to patients in group B (75.7%) but this did not reach to be statistically significant (P = .0519) CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: MRD predicts outcome. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS: The strengths of our study include that it is the first prospective study with good number of malleable implants. Limitations include: no validated satisfaction instrument and MRD choice was based on surgeon preference. CONCLUSIONS: Larger diameter of malleable penile implants are not associated with a higher rate of patient satisfaction Habous M, Omar M, Farag M et al. Malleable Penile Implant Rod Diameter Predicts Complications and Patient Satisfaction. Sex Med 2022;10:100486.

Impact of Silica Ions and Nano Silica on Growth and Productivity of Pea Plants under Salinity Stress.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of silicon (Si) and nano-silicon (NSi) on growth, yield, ions content, and antioxidant defense systems, including transcript levels of enzyme-encoding genes in Pisum sativum plants grown under salinity stress. Both Si and NSi were applied at the 3 mM level and NaCl was applied at 4 concentrations (100, 150, 200 and 250 mM). Vegetative growth, including plant height, leaf area, fresh and dry weights, and yield attributes were determined. Gene expression of antioxidant enzymes was analyzed, and their activities were determined. The results showed that salinity had deleterious effects on plant growth and yield. Salt-stressed plant leaves exhibited a greater activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), but a lower activity of catalase (CAT) when compared to the control. Na+ ions accumulated in roots and shoots of salinized plants. The application of Si and NSi significantly enhanced vegetative growth and relative water content (RWC), and caused significant increases in plant height, fresh and dry weight, total yield, and antioxidant defense systems. Si and NSi enhanced K+ content in roots and shoots under salinity treatment and decreased Na+ content in the studied tissues. It was concluded that the application of NSi was beneficial in improving the salt tolerance of Pisum sativum plants more than Si alone.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antispasmodic, Myorelaxant, and Antioxidant Effect of Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin and Clemants Flower Hydroethanolic Extracts and Its Chloroform and Ethyl Acetate Fractions.

Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin and Clemants is an annual or ephemeral perennial herb used traditionally in the Mediterranean region in folk medicine to treat various illnesses, including those related to the digestive system. This study aims to assess the antispasmodic, myorelaxant, and antioxidant effects of D. ambrosioides flower hydroethanolic extract and its chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions in a comparative study to evaluate the result of the extraction type on the potential activity of the extract. Both rat and rabbit jejunum were used to evaluate the antispasmodic and myorelaxant effect, while the antioxidant effect was evaluated using DPPH, a ferric reducing power assay, and a beta-carotene bleaching test. LC/MS-MS analysis was carried out to reveal the composition of the different types of extract. Following the results, the hydroethanolic extract showed a significant myorelaxant effect (IC50 = 0.39 ± 0.01 mg/mL). Moreover, it was shown that the hydroethanolic extract demonstrated the best antispasmodic activity (IC50 = 0.51 ± 0.05 mg/mL), followed by the ethyl acetate (IC50 = 4.05 ± 0.32 mg/mL) and chloroform (IC50 = 4.34 ± 0.45 mg/mL) fractions. The antioxidant tests showed that the hydroethanolic extract demonstrated high antioxidant activity, followed by the ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions. The LC/MS-MS analysis indicates that the plant extract was rich in flavonoids, to which the extract activity has been attributed. This study supports the traditional use of this plant to treat digestive problems, especially those with spasms.

Physiological and Clinical Impact of Repeated Inhaled Oxygen Variation on Erythropoietin Levels in Patients After Surgery.

The "Normobaric Oxygen Paradox" (NOP) is a physiologic mechanism that induces an increase of endogenous erythropoietin (EPO) production by creating a state of relative hypoxia in subjects previously exposed to hyperoxia, followed by a rapid return to normoxia. Oxygen exposure duration and inspired oxygen fraction required to observe a significant increase in EPO or hemoglobin are not clearly defined. Consequently, we here study the effect of one model of relative hypoxia on EPO, reticulocytes and hemoglobin stimulation in patients after surgery. Patients were prospectively randomized in two groups. The O2 group (n = 10) received 100% oxygen for 1 h per day for eight consecutive days, via a non-rebreathing mask. The control group (n = 12) received no oxygen variation. Serum EPO, hemoglobin and reticulocyte count were measured on admission and postoperatively on days seven and nine. Percentage EPO at day nine with respect to the baseline value was significantly elevated within the groups [O2 group: 323.7 (SD ± 139.0); control group: 365.6 (SD± 162.0)] but not between them. No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of reticulocytes count and hemoglobin. Our NOP model showed no difference on EPO increase between the two groups. However, both groups expressed separately significant EPO elevation.

Myorelaxant and antispasmodic effect of an aqueous extract of Artemisia campestris L. via calcium channel blocking and anticholinergic pathways.

Intestinal spasms are violent contractions that occur in the intestine, which cause discomfort to people who have them. Medicinal plants are widely used in traditional Moroccan medicine to treat these problems, among these being Artemisia campestris L. This study aims to evaluate the relaxant and antispasmodic effects of an aqueous extract of this plant (ACAE). It was performed in vitro on isolated segments of both isolated rat and rabbit jejunum mounted in an organ bath and tension recordings made via an isotonic transducer. ACAE caused a myorelaxant effect on baseline rabbit jejunum contractions in a dose-dependent and reversible manner with an IC50 of 1.52 ± 0.12 mg/ml. This extract would not act via adrenergic receptors pathway. On the other hand, the extract caused a dose-dependent relaxation of the jejunum tone in rat jejenum segments pre-contracted with either Carbachol (CCh; 10-6 M) or high K+ (KCl 75 mM) with an IC50 = 0.49 ± 0.02 mg/ml and 0.36 ± 0.02 mg/ml respectively. In the presence of different doses of the extract, the maximum response to CCh and CaCl2 was significantly reduced. This demonstrates that ACAE acts on both muscarinic receptors and voltage-dependent calcium channels. Thus, the plant extract acted on both muscarinic and nicotinic receptors and acts on the guanylate cyclase pathway, but not the nitric oxide pathway. These results indicate the mechanism by which Artemisia campestris L. acts as an effective antispasmodic agent in traditional Moroccan medicine.

Protective Effect of Opuntia dillenii (Ker Gawl.) Haw. Seed Oil on Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity: A Biochemical and Histological Analysis.

Opuntia dillenii is a medicinal plant with frequent usage in folk medicine to treat many illnesses. The present study aims to investigate the protective effect of Opuntia dillenii seed oil against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The animals (rats) were randomly divided into three groups (i) the normal control group treated only with distilled water (10 mL/kg), (ii) the gentamicin group treated with distilled water (10 mL/kg) and received an intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin (80 mg/kg), and (iii) the group treated with the Opuntia dillenii seed oil (2 mL/kg) and also received an intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin (80 mg/kg). The rats received their following treatments for 14 consecutive days orally. Serum urea, creatinine, gamma-glutamyl transferase, albumin, and electrolyte levels were quantified as the markers of acute renal and liver failure. Besides, the kidney and liver relative weight, kidney malondialdehydes, and kidney histological analysis were determined. The results have shown that daily pretreatment with Opuntia dillenii seed oil (2 mL/kg) prevented severe alterations of biochemical parameters and disruptions of kidney tissue structures. In addition, the results of the present study showed for the first time that Opuntia dillenii seed oil reduced renal toxicity in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Therefore, Opuntia dillenii seed oil may represent a new therapeutic avenue to preserve and protect renal function in gentamicin-treated patients.

Opuntia dillenii (Ker Gawl.) Haw., Seeds Oil Antidiabetic Potential Using In Vivo, In Vitro, In Situ, and Ex Vivo Approaches to Reveal Its Underlying Mechanism of Action.

Opuntia dillenii Ker Gawl. is one of the medicinal plants used for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) in Morocco. This study aims to investigate the antihyperglycemic effect of Opuntia dillenii seed oil (ODSO), its mechanism of action, and any hypoglycemic risk and toxic effects. The antihyperglycemic effect was assessed using the OGTT test in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. The mechanisms of action were explored by studying the effect of ODSO on the intestinal absorption of d-glucose using the intestinal in situ single-pass perfusion technique. An Ussing chamber was used to explore the effects of ODSO on intestinal sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1). Additionally, ODSO's effect on carbohydrate degrading enzymes, pancreatic α-amylase, and intestinal α-glucosidase was evaluated in vitro and in vivo using STZ-diabetic rats. The acute toxicity test on mice was performed, along with a single-dose hypoglycemic effect test. The results showed that ODSO significantly attenuated the postprandial hyperglycemia in normal and STZ-diabetic rats. Indeed, ODSO significantly decreased the intestinal d-glucose absorption in situ. The ex vivo test (Ussing chamber) showed that the ODSO significantly blocks the SGLT1 (IC50 = 60.24 µg/mL). Moreover, ODSO indu\ced a significant inhibition of intestinal α-glucosidase (IC50 = 278 ± 0.01 µg/mL) and pancreatic α-amylase (IC50 = 0.81 ± 0.09 mg/mL) in vitro. A significant decrease of postprandial hyperglycemia was observed in sucrose/starch-loaded normal and STZ-diabetic ODSO-treated rats. On the other hand, ODSO had no risk of hypoglycemia on the basal glucose levels in normal rats. Therefore, no toxic effect was observed in ODSO-treated mice up to 7 mL/kg. The results of this study suggest that ODSO could be suitable as an antidiabetic functional food.

Acute and Subacute Toxicity and Cytotoxicity of Opuntia Dillenii (Ker-Gawl) Haw. Seed Oil and Its Impact on the Isolated Rat Diaphragm Glucose Absorption.

This study aims to assess the safety of the Opuntia dillenii (Ker-Gawl) haw. seed oil (ODSO) and its effect on the glucose absorption activity of the isolated rat hemidiaphragm. This oil's safety was studied by exploring its acute (doses 1, 3, 5, and 7 mL/kg) and subacute (doses 1 and 2 mL/kg) toxicities in albino mice and Wistar rats, respectively. The safety of the ODSO was also assessed by studying its effect on the HepG2 cell viability in vitro. The effect of ODSO, or combined with the insulin, on the glucose absorption activity of isolated rat hemidiaphragm was evaluated at the dose 1 g/L in vitro. The results demonstrated the safety of ODSO. Indeed, this study showed that this oil does not produce any mortality or signs of toxicity after the single-dose administration in mice. Additionally, the daily intake of the ODSO during four weeks does not induce a significant variation in the biochemical parameters and body weight of rats compared with the control group. Besides, the cell viability of HepG2 did not change in the presence of ODSO. On the other hand, the ODSO increased the glucose absorption activity of the isolated rat hemidiaphragm, and this activity was significantly enhanced when combined with insulin. This study confirms, on one side, the safety of this oil and its efficacy and, on the other side, encourages its potential use as a complement to treat diabetes.

Beneficial Effect of Thymelaea hirsuta on Pancreatic Islet Degeneration, Renal Fibrosis, and Liver Damages as Demonstrated in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat.

OBJECTIVE: In Morocco, Thymelaea hirsuta (T. hirsuta) (Thymelaeacea) is a medicinal plant widely used to treat and prevent diabetes. The present study aimed to evaluate the medium-term antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract (AqTh) and ethyl acetate fraction (EaTh) of Th and to investigate their putative protective effect on pancreatic islet degeneration, diabetic nephropathy, and liver damages in streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. METHODS: Experimental diabetes in rats was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg/kg of STZ. During the treatment period (4 weeks), 200 mg/kg AqTh and 50 mg/kg EaTh were orally administrated daily to STZ-diabetic rats. A group of parameters including fasting blood glucose, biochemical parameters, and intestinal α-glucosidase inhibition were studied. Furthermore, histological study of the pancreas, kidney, liver, and aorta was also realized. RESULTS: At the end of the treatment, both AqTh and EaTh had normalized fasting blood glucose to 1.08 and 1.25 g/l, respectively. AqTh has also reduced urinary creatinine and HbAc1. The EaTh showed inhibitory activity against intestinal α-glucosidase, whereas AqTh did not have this inhibitory effect. Furthermore, pancreas hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that AqTh or EaTh prevents pancreatic islet cell degeneration. As the same kidney, Masson's trichrome staining has shown a significant prevention of renal fibrosis in AqTh- or EaTh-treated diabetic rats. On the other hand, liver hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that AqTh and EaTh prevent liver damage. CONCLUSION: We conclude that medium-term administration of AqTh and EaTh exerts significant antihyperglycemic effect in STZ-diabetic rats possibly through intestinal α-glucosidase inhibition and protection against pancreatic islet cell damage. Moreover, AqTh and EaTh treatment prevent nephropathy and liver complications in STZ-diabetic rats.

Naphthalene: irritative and inflammatory effects on the airways.

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study determined whether acute sensory irritative or (sub)chronic inflammatory effects of the eyes, nose or respiratory tract are observed in employees who are exposed to naphthalene at the workplace. METHODS: Thirtynine healthy and non-smoking male employees with either moderate (n = 22) or high (n = 17) exposure to naphthalene were compared to 22 male employees from the same plants with no or only rare exposure to naphthalene. (Sub)clinical endpoint measures included nasal endoscopy, smell sensitivity, self-reported work-related complaints and the intensity of naphthalene odor and irritation. In addition, cellular and soluble mediators in blood, nasal lavage fluid (NALF) and induced sputum (IS) were analysed. All measurements were carried out pre-shift on Monday and post-shift on Thursday. Personal air monitoring revealed naphthalene shift concentrations up to 11.6 mg/m3 with short-term peak concentrations up to 145.8 mg/m3 and 1- and 2-naphthol levels (sum) in post-shift urine up to 10.1 mg/L. RESULTS: Acute sensory irritating effects at the eyes and upper airways were reported to occur when directly handling naphthalene (e.g., sieving pure naphthalene). Generally, naphthalene odor was described as intense and unpleasant. Habituation effects or olfactory fatigue were not observed. Endoscopic examination revealed mild inflammatory effects at the nasal mucosa of exposed employees in terms of reddening and swelling and abnormal mucus production. No consistent pattern of cellular and soluble mediators in blood, NALF or IS was observed which would indicate a chronic or acute inflammatory effect of naphthalene in exposed workers. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that exposure to naphthalene induces acute sensory irritative effects in exposed workers. No (sub)chronic inflammatory effects on the nasal epithelium or the respiratory tract could be observed under the study conditions described here.