Triiodothyronine, diluted according homeopathic techniques, modifies the programmed cell death of tadpole tail's explants

High Dilution is a solution beyond the Avogadro limits that, in the dependence of the applied succussion elicits a suppressive or a stimulant effect on a living cell, with a consequent generation of an oscillatory dose-effect curve. According to Bonamin et al. [1], “Perhaps, the most enigmatic feature regarding the properties of high dilutions is the non-linearity of their effects. In several studies employing in vivo and ex vivo models, especially involving iso-endopathy, an oscillatory potency-effect curve has appeared. The first observations were initially considered as artifacts, but the repetition of this pattern in different studies involving completely different experimental models, in times and places equally different, points out to the existence of a property intrinsic to dynamized systems.” ...

Role of Organic Cation Transporter 3 and Plasma Membrane Monoamine Transporter in the Rewarding Properties and Locomotor Sensitizing Effects of Amphetamine in Male andFemale Mice

A lack of effective treatment and sex-based disparities in psychostimulant addiction and overdose warrant further investigation into mechanisms underlying the abuse-related effects of amphetamine-like stimulants. Uptake-2 transporters such as organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) and plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT), lesser studied potential targets for the actions of stimulant drugs, are known to play a role in monoaminergic neurotransmission. Our goal was to examine the roles of OCT3 and PMAT in mediating amphetamine (1 mg/kg)-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and sensitization to its locomotor stimulant effects, in males and females, using pharmacological, decynium-22 (D22; 0.1 mg/kg, a blocker of OCT3 and PMAT) and genetic (constitutive OCT3 and PMAT knockout (−/−) mice) approaches. Our results show that OCT3 is necessary for the development of CPP to amphetamine in males, whereas in females, PMAT is necessary for the ability of D22 to prevent the development of CPP to amphetamine. Both OCT3 and PMAT appear to be important for development of sensitization to the locomotor stimulant effect of amphetamine in females, and PMAT in males. Taken together, these findings support an important, sex-dependent role of OCT3 and PMAT in the rewarding and locomotor stimulant effects of amphetamine.

Micronized curcumin causes hyperlocomotion in zebrafish larvae

Zebrafish larvae have been widely used in neuroscience and drug research and development. In the larval stage, zebrafish present a broad behavioral repertoire and physiological responses similar to adults. Curcumin (CUR), a major component of Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae), has demonstrated the ability to modulate several neurobiological processes relevant to mental disorders in animal models. However, the low bioavailability of this compound can compromise its in vivo biological potential. Interestingly, it has been shown that micronization can increase the biological effects of several compounds. Thus, in this study, we compared the effects of acute exposure for 30 minutes to the following solutions: water (control), 0.1% DMSO (vehicle), 1 μM CUR, or 1 μM micronized curcumin (MC) in zebrafish larvae 7 days post-fertilization (dpf). We analyzed locomotor activity (open tank test), anxiety (light/dark test), and avoidance behavior (aversive stimulus test). Moreover, we evaluated parameters of oxidative status (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and non-protein thiols levels). MC increased the total distance traveled and absolute turn angle in the open tank test. There were no significant differences in the other behavioral or neurochemical outcomes. The increase in locomotion induced by MC may be associated with a stimulant effect on the central nervous system, which was evidenced by the micronization process.

Review on Theobromine: An Alternative to Fluorides in Treating Dentinal Hypersensitivity

Theobromine is a unique constituent that can help dentistry and general health in the future. The generic name of theobroma is obtained from two Greek words i.e., Theo and Broma, which means “food of the gods". It can be found in cocoa beans and chocolates. Theodent toothpaste harness the power of cocoa. Rennou, the main component in Theodent, is a unique compound that combines theobromine, calcium, and phosphate to enhance enamel remineralization. This article is to review the effectiveness of theobromine in blocking dentinal tubules by preventing dentinal hypersensitivity, and its positive effects on general health. Various researches and valid documents were reviewed by us. Several studies have been conducted that shows theobromine is effective in blocking dentinal tubules, thus preventing dentinal hypersensitivity as well as tooth demineralization. It also has other general health benefits. Because of its potent vasodilation, diuretic and heart stimulant effect, theobromine can also be used in treating high blood pressure. It also aids in opening of airways and helps in preventing kidney stones. The use of fluoride dentifrices is debatable, as it has many detrimental effects. Also, we consider that theobromine if used as a component in dentifrices, if unintentionally swallowed, cause no catastrophic effects.

Development of thin-layer chromatographic method for determination of caffeine in black, green, and white tea

Caffeine is naturally present in tea and coffee giving the pleasant and stimulant effect. Several different types of teas, black, green, and white teas bought in market were analysis for caffeine content. The boiled sample tea was filtered through filter paper. Lead(II) acetate was used to separate tannins from caffeine followed by filtration through filter paper with a black ribbon. The liquid-liquid extraction was carried out using dichloromethane (3×5 mL) and sodium sulfate as a drying agent. The TLC method was performed on Merck precoated silica gel plates 5×10 cm (60F254, 200 μm) using either methanol or dichloromethane as solvents and the mobile phases were glacial acetic acid and ethyl acetate (95:5, v/v), while the second one was consisted of ethyl acetate and ethanol (80:20, v/v), respectfully. The Rf values were 0.36 and 0.86 for the first and the second mobile phase, respectively, in comparison to the standard caffeine. The values for pH of boiled sample teas were in the range from 4.85 to 5.80. The most abundant tea sample for caffeine was determined in green tea bought in the grocery store for health nutrition (2.04 %). The yield for tea samples from green market, white tea and two tea black samples were 0.06, 0.71, 0.07, and 0.05%, respectively. The developed TLC method can be used for determination of caffeine content in tea samples.

Prevalence of Tea Consumption among University Students of South-Eastern Region of Bangladesh and Associated Factors

Tea has become an integral part of our culture and everyday life due to taste, together with a refreshing and mildly stimulant effect. The study was carried out to investigate the behaviour pattern and prevalence observed due to regular consumption of tea as a source of caffeine among the university students using a self-reported validated questionnaire. Socio-demographic and data related to tea consumption pattern were collected and analysed statistically. Among 245 study participants, the majority chose a greater proportion of tea (83.7%) followed by coffee (14.7%). The main reasons for tea consumption by university students included keeping alert during the examination period (38.8%), followed by the removal of anxiety and stress. Students (around 61%) mostly consume 2-3 cup of tea per day. According to the study, 12.7% of students had never consumed tea. More than two-thirds (66.9%) of the students reported having a sound sleep, normal BMI and blood pressure, a majority of them were engaged with regular physical exercise. The study also illustrated that most of the students (52.7%) give priority to the quality of the product rather than price, brand and taste while buying packaged tea leaves. Thus, this study provides basics about the prevalence and presents a recommendation for expanding tea consumption market among the university students.

Red Oak (Quercus rubra L.) Fruits as Potential Alternative for Cocoa Powder: Optimization of Roasting Conditions, Antioxidant, and Biological Properties

Cocoa powder is a basic ingredient in the manufacture of chocolate, one of the most appreciated sweet products in the world for its sensory and nutritional properties. Furthermore, it displays a central nervous system stimulant effect. This study aimed to investigate acorn-derived powder as an alternative to cocoa powder, in order to obtain a chocolate that does not contain stimulants of the nervous system. Both the chocolate technological process and acorns roasting process (180 °C/25 min, 200 °C/20 min and 220 °C/15 min) were optimized to obtain acorn powder with an organoleptic profile as close as possible to that of cocoa powder. The chocolate sensory evaluation was performed by means of the hedonic test. Furthermore, the aqueous extracts obtained from the resulting powder were evaluated for total polyphenol content, and in vitro antimicrobial and antiproliferative properties. The results point out a high content of phenolic compounds (500.78–524.01 mg GAE/100 g); protection against microbial contamination based on the ability to inhibit a Gram-positive bacterium (Bacillus cereus) was also noticed. The aqueous acorn extracts were also able to reduce the cell viability of HFL-1 (human fetal lung fibroblast) and DLD-1 (colorectal adenocarcinoma) lines. This study suggests red oak (Quercus rubra) fruits as a potential alternative to cocoa powder in the manufacture of chocolate.

Dextroamphetamine Treatment for Children With Hypothalamic Obesity

Introduction: Hypothalamic obesity (HO) in children can be either genetic or acquired, as a result of a suprasellar tumor or its treatment. HO, resulting from hyperphagia and/or a decreased resting energy expenditure (REE), may have devastating consequences for the child and its family. Currently, no effective drug treatment is yet available for HO. Amphetamines – commonly used in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder – are known for their stimulant effect on REE and inhibitory effect on appetite. We here present our experiences of dextroamphetamine treatment in children and adolescents with acquired or genetic HO. Methods: A retrospective cohort evaluation was performed of patients (n = 18) treated with dextroamphetamine at 2 endocrine pediatric clinics. Off-label use of dextroamphetamine was initiated in patients with progressive therapy resistant acquired HO (n = 13) and in patients with genetic obesity (n = 5). Initial treatment dosing was once or twice daily 5mg. This dose was weekly increased with 5 mg/day depending on the patient’ wellbeing and the presence of side effects, to a maximum of 0.5 mg/kg/day. Anthropometrics and REE at start and during follow-up, changes in (hyperphagic) behavior, and side effects were assessed. Results: At start of treatment, mean age was 12.8 years ± 3.4 [range 7.1–17.9] and mean REE was 69.5%± 18.5 (n = 15). At follow-up, mean treatment duration was 18.3 months ± 14.7. Ten out of eighteen children (55.6%) showed clinically relevant weight loss. In 10/13 patients with acquired HO, weight loss was observed (mean ΔBMI SDS -1.09 ± 1.00), in one patient BMI stabilization (ΔBMI SDS +0.03), and in two patients an increase in BMI SDS was seen (mean ΔBMI SDS +0.32 ± 0.05). Of nine children with acquired HO and measurement of REE before and during treatment, a mean REE increase of +15.3% ± 10.5 was observed. In three out of five patients with genetic obesity, initially weight loss was observed resulting in BMI stabilization at end of follow-up due to weight regain (mean ΔBMI SDS -0.08 ± 0.19). In these patients, no difference in REE before and during treatment was observed. In two patients an increase in BMI SDS was seen (mean ΔBMI SDS +0.29 ± 0.25). However, one patient discontinued treatment after one month, due to hypertension. Thirteen out of 18 children (72.2%) reported improvement of either their hyperphagia, energy level, and/or behavior. No serious side effects were reported. Conclusion: In children and adolescents with acquired HO, treatment with dextroamphetamine may significantly lower BMI, reduce hyperphagia and improve activity level. In genetic HO, these effects were less pronounced. Future studies in a larger cohort and with randomized controlled designs are needed to support these results.

Stimulantia Effect Of Single Bulb Garlic Extract (Allium Sativum Var.Solo Garlic) in Swiss Webster Mice

Stimulant is an agent that stimulates the central nervous system thereby increasing physical and mental abilities and minimizing fatigue. The use of synthetic caffeine stimulants of 10 mg / kg BW is known to have side effects of increasing total cholesterol and increasing LDL, therefore alternative stimulants from natural ingredients are needed. Natural materials that have been studied contain flavonoids and phenolic as a stimulant compound is a single garlic bulbs. The purpose of this study was to determine the stimulant effect of a single garlic bulbs ethanolic extract on mice from the difference in swimming time. The research experimental used Pre test and Post test control design. Sample of this research used mice which were divided into 6 groups. Group 1 pretest dose 5 g / kgBB, group 2 (negative control), group 3 (caffeine), group 4 extract dose 5g / kgBB, group 5 dose 10g / kgBB and group 6 dose 20g / kgBB. Data was analyze using one way Anova continued with Post Hoc test. The group of single garlic bulb ethanolic extract dose 20 g / kgBB had the highest stimulant effect with 222,722 minutes fatigue time difference and statistically have significant difference (p <0.05) than the negative control group. Group of single garlic bulb extract can influence the time of fatigue of mice by extending the swimming time of mice so that it has a longer fatigue time which means it has a stimulant effect