[Effect of Spatholobi Caulis extract from ethyl acetate on immune killing function of NK cells].

This study aims to investigate the regulatory effect of the Spatholobi Caulis extract from ethyl acetate(SEA) on natural killer(NK) cells under physiological conditions and elucidate the underlying mechanism. The C57BL/6 mice were randomized into NC and SEA groups, and NK-92 cells were respectively treated with 0, 25, 50, and 100 µg·mL~(-1) SEA. The body weight and immune organ index of the mice were compared between groups. The lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) assay was employed to examine the cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells treated with SEA and the killing activity of mouse NK cells against YAC-1 cells. The cell-counting kit-8(CCK-8) was used to examine the impact of SEA on the proliferation of NK-92 cells. Flow cytometry was employed to measure the number of NK cells in the peripheral blood as well as the expression levels of natural killer group 2 member A(NKG2A) and natural killer group 2 member D(NKG2D). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was performed to determine the interferon(IFN)-γ secretion in the serum. Semi-quantitative PCR was conducted to determine the mRNA levels of NKG2A, NKG2D, and IFN-γ in spleen cells. Western blot was employed to investigate the involvement of phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K)/extracellular regulated protein kinase 1(ERK1) signaling pathway. The results showed that SEA exhibited no adverse effects on the body, while significantly enhance the number of NK cells and augment the cytotoxicity of NK-92 cells against YAC-1 cells. Moreover, it suppressed the expression of NKG2A, enhanced the expression of NKG2D, promoted IFN-γ secretion, and upregulated the protein levels of PI3K and ERK. The findings suggest that SEA has the potential to enhance the immune recognition and effector function of NK cells by increasing the cell number, modulating the expression of functional receptors, and promoting IFN-γ secretion via the PI3K/ERK signaling pathway.

Relationship between the natural cessation time of umbilical cord pulsation in full-term newborns delivered vaginally and maternal-neonatal outcomes: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: To analyze the impact of the time of natural cessation of the umbilical cord on maternal and infant outcomes in order to explore the time of clamping that would be beneficial to maternal and infant outcomes. METHODS: The study was a cohort study and pregnant women who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University from September 2020 to September 2021. Analysis using Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test, Pearson's Chi-squared test, generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) and repeated measures ANOVA. If the difference between groups was statistically significant, the Bonferroni test was then performed. A two-sided test of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 345 pregnants were included in this study. The subjects were divided into the ≤60 seconds group (n = 134), the 61-89 seconds group (n = 106) and the ≥90 seconds group (n = 105) according to the time of natural arrest of the umbilical cord. There was no statistically significant difference in the amount of postpartum hemorrhage and the need for iron, medication, or supplements in the postpartum period between the different cord spontaneous arrest time groups for mothers (P > 0.05). The weight of the newborns in the three groups was (3316.27 ± 356.70) g, (3387.26 ± 379.20) g, and (3455.52 ± 363.78) g, respectively, and the number of days of cord detachment was 12.00 (8.00, 15.75) days, 10.00 (7.00, 15.00) days and 9.00 (7.00, 13.00) days, respectively, as the time of natural cessation of the cord increased. The neonatal lymphocyte ratio, erythrocyte pressure, and hemoglobin reached a maximum in the 61-89 s group at (7.41 ± 2.16) %, (61.77 ± 8.17) % and (194.52 ± 25.84) g/L, respectively. Lower incidence of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in the 61-89 s group compared to the ≥90s group 0 vs 4.8 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In full-term singleton vaginal births, maternal and infant outcomes are better when waiting for 61-89 s after birth for the cord to stop pulsating naturally, suggesting that we can wait up to 90s for the cord to stop pulsating naturally, and if the cord does not stop pulsating after 90s, artificial weaning may be more beneficial to maternal and infant outcomes.

Therapeutic potential of Angelica sinensis in addressing organ fibrosis: A comprehensive review.

Fibrosis-related diseases (FRD) include conditions like myocardial fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis, renal fibrosis, and others. The impact of fibrosis can be severe, causing organ dysfunction, reduced functionality, and even organ failure, leading to significant health issues. Currently, there is a lack of effective modern anti-fibrosis drugs in clinical practice. However, Chinese medicine has a certain beneficial effect on the treatment of such diseases. Angelica sinensis, with its considerable medicinal value, has garnered attention for its anti-fibrosis properties in recent investigations. In the past few years, there has been a growing number of experimental inquiries into the impact of angelica polysaccharide (ASP), angelica water extract, angelica injection, and angelica compound preparation on fibrosis-associated ailments, piquing the interest of researchers. This paper aims to consolidate recent advances in the study of Angelica sinensis for the treatment of fibrosis-related disorders, offering insights for prospective investigations. Literature retrieval included core electronic databases, including Baidu Literature, CNKI, Google-Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science. The applied search utilized specified keywords to extract relevant information on the pharmacological and phytochemical attributes of plants. The investigation revealed that Angelica sinensis has the potential to impede the advancement of fibrotic diseases by modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, immune responses, and metabolism. ASP, Angelica sinensis extract, Angelica sinensis injection, and Angelica sinensis compound preparation were extensively examined and discussed. These constituents demonstrated significant anti-fibrosis activity. In essence, this review seeks to gain a profound understanding of the role of Angelica sinensis in treating fiber-related diseases. Organ fibrosis manifests in nearly all tissues and organs, posing a critical challenge to global public health due to its widespread occurrence, challenging early diagnosis, and unfavorable prognosis. Despite its prevalence, therapeutic options are limited, and their efficacy is constrained. Over the past few years, numerous studies have explored the protective effects of traditional Chinese medicine on organ fibrosis, with Angelica sinensis standing out as a multifunctional natural remedy. This paper provides a review of organ fibrosis pathogenesis and summarizes the recent two decades' progress in treating fibrosis in various organs such as the liver, lung, kidney, and heart. The review highlights the modulation of relevant signaling pathways through multiple targets and channels by the effective components of Angelica sinensis, whether used as a single medicine or in compound prescriptions.

Mitigating phospholipid peroxidation of macrophages in stress-induced tumor microenvironment by natural ALOX15/PEBP1 complex inhibitors.

BACKGROUND: The intricate interactions between chronic psychological stress and susceptibility to breast cancer have been recognized, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unexplored. Danzhi Xiaoyao Powder (DZXY), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has found clinical utility in the treatment of breast cancer. Macrophages, as the predominant immune cell population within the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a pivotal role in orchestrating tumor immunosurveillance. Emerging evidence suggests that lipid oxidation accumulation in TME macrophages, plays a critical role in breast cancer development and progression. However, a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacological mechanisms and active components of DZXY related to its clinical application in the treatment of stress-aggravated breast cancer remains elusive. PURPOSE: This study sought to explore the plausible regulatory mechanisms and identify the key active components of DZXY contributing to its therapeutic efficacy in the context of breast cancer. METHODS: Initially, we conducted an investigation into the relationship between the phagocytic capacity of macrophages damaged by psychological stress and phospholipid peroxidation using flow cytometry and LC-MS/MS-based phospholipomics. Subsequently, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of DZXY based on the results of the tumor size, tumor weight, the phospholipid peroxidation pathway and phagocytosis of macrophage. Additionally, the target-mediated characterization strategy based on binding of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) to phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein-1 (PEBP1), including molecular docking analysis, microscale thermophoresis (MST) assay, co-immunoprecipitation analysis and activity verification, has been further implemented to reveal the key bio-active components in DZXY. Finally, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of isochlorogenic acid C (ICAC) based on the results of tumor size, tumor weight, the phospholipid peroxidation pathway, and macrophage phagocytosis in vivo. RESULTS: The present study demonstrated that phospholipid peroxides, as determined by LC-MS/MS-based phospholipidomics, triggered in macrophages, which in turn compromised their capacity to eliminate tumor cells through phagocytosis. Furthermore, we elucidate the mechanism behind stress-induced PEBP1 to form a complex with ALOX15, thereby mediating membrane phospholipid peroxidation in macrophages. DZXY, demonstrates potent anti-breast cancer therapeutic effects by disrupting the ALOX15/PEBP1 interaction and inhibiting phospholipid peroxidation, ultimately enhancing macrophages' phagocytic capability towards tumor cells. Notably, ICAC emerged as a promising active component in DZXY, which can inhibit the ALOX15/PEBP1 interaction, thereby mitigating phospholipid peroxidation in macrophages. CONCLUSION: Collectively, our findings elucidate stress increases the susceptibility of breast cancer by driving lipid peroxidation of macrophages and suggest the ALOX15/PEBP1 complex as a promising intervention target for DZXY.

Integrated phytochemistry and network pharmacology analysis to reveal effective substances and mechanisms of Bushen Quhan Zhiwang decoction in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Bushen Quhan Zhiwang decoction (BQZD), a formula in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), effectively delays bone destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. However, its chemical constituents, absorbed components, and metabolites remain unrevealed, and its mechanism in treating bone destruction in RA needs further investigation. AIM OF THE STUDY: Our objective is to identify the chemical constituents, absorbed components, and metabolites of BQZD and explore the potential mechanisms of BQZD in treating bone destruction in RA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study systematically identified the chemical constituents, absorbed components, and metabolites of BQZD using ultra-performance liquid chromatography with Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry combined with parallel reaction monitoring. The absorbed components and metabolites were subjected to network pharmacology analysis to predict the potential mechanisms of BQZD in treating bone destruction in RA. The in vivo anti-osteoclastogenic and underlying mechanism were further verified in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats. RESULTS: A total of 182 compounds were identified in BQZD, 27 of which were absorbed into plasma and organs and 42 metabolites were identified in plasma and organs. The KEGG analysis revealed that MAPK signaling pathway was highly prioritized. BQZD treatment attenuated paw swelling and the arthritis index; suppressed synovial hyperplasia, bone destruction, and osteoclast differentiation; and inhibited the levels of TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6 in CIA rats. Mechanically, BQZD significantly decreased the protein expression levels of TRAF6, NFATc1, p-JNK, and p-p38, which might be related to 9 absorbed components and 1 metabolite. CONCLUSION: This study revealed the key active components and metabolites of BQZD. BQZD exhibits bone-protective effects via TRAF6/p38/JNK MAPK pathway, which may be associated with 9 absorbed components and 1 metabolite.

Effects of diverse resistance training modalities on performance measures in athletes: a network meta-analysis.

Background: Jumping ability is one of the necessary qualities for athletes. Previous studies have shown that plyometric training and complex training including plyometrics can improve athletes' jumping ability. With the emergence of various types of complex training, there is uncertainty about which training method has the best effect. This study conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of plyometric-related training on athletes' jumping ability, to provide some reference for coaches to design training plans. Methods: We systematically searched 3 databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) up to July 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials investigating plyometrics related training in athletes. The two researchers conducted literature screening, extraction and quality assessment independently. We performed a network meta-analysis using Stata 16. Results: We analyzed 83 studies and found that complex training, which includes high-intensity intervals and plyometric exercises, was the most effective method for improving squat jumps (SURCA = 96%). In the case of countermovement jumps a combination of electrostimulation and plyometric training yielded the best results (SURCA = 97.6%). Weightlifting training proved to be the most effective for the standing long jump (SURCA = 81.4%), while strength training was found to be the most effective for the five bounces test (SURCA = 87.3%). Conclusion: Our current study shows that complex training performs more efficient overall in plyometric-related training. However, there are different individual differences in the effects of different training on different indicators (e.g., CMJ, SJ, SLJ, 5BT) of athletes. Therefore, in order to ensure that the most appropriate training is selected, it is crucial to accurately assess the physical condition of each athlete before implementation. Clinical Trial Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, Registration and protocol CRD42023456402.

Mechanisms of Bushen Tiaoxue Granules against controlled ovarian hyperstimulation-induced abnormal morphology of endometrium based on network pharmacology.

Bushen Tiaoxue Granules (BTG) is an empirical Chinese herbal formula that has been used for the treatment of subfertility. The protective effect of BTG on controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH)-induced impaired endometrial receptivity has been reported in our previous study. This study aims to explore the mechanisms of BTG on ameliorating abnormal morphology of endometrium based on network pharmacology. Active compounds of BTG were identified via the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology and UPLC-MS technology. The SwissTargetPrediction platform and HERB database were used to screen out the putative targets of BTG. Potential targets of endometrial dysfunction caused by COH were obtained from three GEO databases. Through the STRING database, the protein-protein interaction was carried out according to the cross-common targets of diseases and drugs. GO terms and KEGG pathways enrichment analyses were conducted via the Metascape database. AutoDock Vina was used for docking validation of the affinity between active compounds and potential targets. Finally, in vivo experiments were used to verify the potential mechanisms derived from network pharmacology study. A total of 141 effective ingredients were obtained from TCMSP and nine of which were verified in UPLC-MS. Six genes were selected through the intersection of 534 disease related genes and 165 drug potential targets. Enrichment analyses showed that BTG might reverse endometrial dysfunction by regulating adherens junction and arachidonic acid metabolism. Hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed that BTG ameliorated the loose and edematous status of endometrial epithelium caused by COH. The protein expression of FOXO1A, ß-Catenin and COX-2 was decreased in the COH group, and was up-regulated by BTG. BTG significantly alleviates the edema of endometrial epithelium caused by COH. The mechanisms may be related to adheren junctions and activation of arachidonic acid metabolism. The potential active compounds quercetin, taxifolin, kaempferol, eriodictyol, and isorhamnetin identified from the BTG exhibit marginal cytotoxicity. Both high and low concentrations of kaempferol, eriodictyol, and taxifolin are capable of effectively ameliorating impaired hESC cellular activity.

Aspercitrininone A, novel antibacterial polyketide featuring unusual spiral skeleton from Aspergillus cristatus.

Aspercitrininone A (1), a novel polyketide featuring an unprecedented tetracyclic 6/6/6/5 spiral skeleton, was obtained from the rice fermentation cultures of the fungus Aspergillus cristatus together with five known compounds (2-6). Their structures were determined by HRESIMS data, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Aspercitrininone A was revealed as a new type of C/D cycle spiral structure and an unusual addition product of o-quinoid form citrinin with 2-methylterrefuranone. Compounds 1, 4, and 5 exhibited potent antibacterial activities with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values from 13.2 to 67.3 µg/mL against four strains of human pathogenic bacteria in vitro.

Testosterone regulates thymic remodeling by altering metabolic reprogramming in male rats.

The thymus is an energy-consuming organ, and its metabolism changes with atrophy. Testosterone regulates thymus remodeling (atrophy and regeneration). However, the characteristics of the energy metabolism during testosterone-mediated thymic atrophy and regeneration remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that testosterone ablation (implemented by immunocastration and surgical castration) induced global metabolic changes in the thymus. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment for differential metabolites and metabolite set enrichment analysis for total metabolites revealed that testosterone ablation affected thymic glycolysis, glutamate metabolism, and fatty acid ß-oxidation. Testosterone ablation-induced thymic regeneration was accompanied by attenuated glycolysis and glutamate metabolism and changed fatty acid composition and content. Testosterone supplementation in immunocastrated and surgically castrated rats enhanced glutaminolysis, reduced the level of unsaturated fatty acids, enhanced the ß-oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids in the mitochondria, boosted the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and accelerated thymic atrophy. Overall, these results imply that metabolic reprogramming is directly related to thymic remodeling.

BATMAN-TCM 2.0: an enhanced integrative database for known and predicted interactions between traditional Chinese medicine ingredients and target proteins.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is increasingly recognized and utilized worldwide. However, the complex ingredients of TCM and their interactions with the human body make elucidating molecular mechanisms challenging, which greatly hinders the modernization of TCM. In 2016, we developed BATMAN-TCM 1.0, which is an integrated database of TCM ingredient-target protein interaction (TTI) for pharmacology research. Here, to address the growing need for a higher coverage TTI dataset, and using omics data to screen active TCM ingredients or herbs for complex disease treatment, we updated BATMAN-TCM to version 2.0 (http://bionet.ncpsb.org.cn/batman-tcm/). Using the same protocol as version 1.0, we collected 17 068 known TTIs by manual curation (with a 62.3-fold increase), and predicted ∼2.3 million high-confidence TTIs. In addition, we incorporated three new features into the updated version: (i) it enables simultaneous exploration of the target of TCM ingredient for pharmacology research and TCM ingredients binding to target proteins for drug discovery; (ii) it has significantly expanded TTI coverage; and (iii) the website was redesigned for better user experience and higher speed. We believe that BATMAN-TCM 2.0, as a discovery repository, will contribute to the study of TCM molecular mechanisms and the development of new drugs for complex diseases.

Genome-wide characterization of the xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase family genes and their response to plant hormone in sugar beet.

Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolases (XTHs) play a crucial role in plant growth and development. However, their functional response to phytohormone in sugar beet still remains obscure. In this study, we identified 30 putative BvXTH genes in the sugar beet genome. Phylogenetic and evolutionary relationship analysis revealed that they were clustered into three groups and have gone through eight tandem duplication events under purifying selection. Gene structure and motif composition analysis demonstrated that they were highly conserved and all contained one conserved glycoside hydrolase family 16 domain (Glyco_hydro_16) and one xyloglucan endotransglycosylase C-terminus (XET_C) domain. Transcriptional expression analysis exhibited that all BvXTHs were ubiquitously expressed in leaves, root hairs and tuberous roots, and most of them were up-regulated by brassinolide (BR), jasmonic acid (JA), abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellic acid (GA3). Further mutant complementary experiment demonstrated that expression of BvXTH17 rescued the retarded growth phenotype of xth22, an Arabidopsis knock out mutant of AtXTH22. The findings in our work provide fundamental information on the structure and evolutionary relationship of the XTH family genes in sugar beet, and reveal the potential function of BvXTH17 in plant growth and hormone response.

Production of single cell protein rich in potassium by Nectaromyces rattus using biogas slurry and molasses.

Single-cell protein (SCP) is a vital supplement for animal protein feed. This study utilized biogas slurry and sugarcane molasses to ferment Nectaromyces rattus for the production of SCP. The optimal batch fermentation conditions were obtained in a 5L jar with a tank pressure of 0.1 MPa, an initial speed of 300 rpm, and an inoculum volume of 30%. The highest cell dry weight concentrations of the fed-batch fermentation without reflux and the fed-batch fermentation with reflux were 46.33 g/L and 29.71 g/L, respectively. The nitrogen conversion rates (47.05% and 44.12%) and the cell yields of total organic carbon (1 g/g and 1.17 g/g) of both fermentation modes were compared. The SCP contained 42.32% amino acids. Its high concentrations of potassium (19859.96 mg/kg) and phosphorus (7310.44 mg/kg) present a novel approach for the extraction of these essential nutrients from biogas slurry. The enrichment of K was related to the H+ efflux and sugar transport.

Lignan glucosides from Gentiana macrophylla with potential anti-arthritis and hepatoprotective activities.

Ten lignans, including six previously undescribed phenolic ester glycosyl lignans (1-6), were isolated from a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, Qin-Jiao, which is the dry root of Gentiana macrophylla Pall. (Gentianaceae). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and chemical methods, especially 2D NMR techniques. Quantum chemical calculations of theoretical ECD spectra allowed the determination of their absolute configurations. Refer to its traditional applications for the treatment of rheumatic arthralgia and hepatopathy, these compounds were evaluated on a TNF-α induced MH7A human synoviocyte inflammation model and a D-GalN induced AML12 hepatocyte injury model. Compounds 1, 2, 5, and 6 significantly reduced the release of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1ß in MH7A cells at 15 µM and they also could strongly protect AML12 cells against D-GalN injury at 30 µM. Flow cytometry and Western blot analysis showed that compound 5 ameliorated D-GalN induced AML12 cell apoptosis by upregulating the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein and down-regulating the expression of pro-apoptotic Bax protein.

Theoretical and experimental study on the photothermal effect of palladium nanoparticles based on a finite element model.

Palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) show significant promise as agents for the photothermal treatment of tumors due to their high photothermal conversion efficiency and thermal stability. theoretical calculations were conducted to investigate the electric field and solid heat conduction of Pd NPs with various sizes and particle distances, aiming to achieve the maximum photothermal conversion efficiency during laser irradiation. Subsequently, Pd NPs with optimal size and structure were synthesized. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to evaluate photothermal conversion. The theoretical results indicated that a peak temperature of 90.12 °C is achieved when the side length is 30 nm with a distance of 2 nm. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the photothermal conversion efficiency of Pd NPs can reach up to 61.9%. in vivo experiments revealed that injecting Pd NPs into blood vessels can effectively reduce the number of laser pulses by 22.22%, thereby inducing obvious vasoconstriction.

Improving red pitaya fruit quality by nano-selenium biofortification to enhance phenylpropanoid and betalain biosynthesis.

Red pitaya, the representative tropical and subtropical fruit, is vulnerable to quality deterioration due to climate or agronomic measures. Nano-selenium (Nano-Se) has shown positive effects on crop biofortification in favour of reversing this situation. In this study, Se could be enriched efficiently in red pitayas via root and foliar application by Nano-Se, which induced higher phenolic acids (16.9-94.2%), total phenols (15.7%), total flavonoids (29.5%) and betacyanins (34.1%) accumulation in flesh. Richer antioxidative features including activities of SOD (25.2%), CAT (33.8%), POD (77.2%), and levels of AsA (25.7%) and DPPH (14.7%) were obtained in Nano-Se-treated pitayas as well as in their 4-8 days shelf-life. The non-targeted metabolomics indicated a boost in amino acids, resulting in the stimulation of phenylpropanoid and betalain biosynthesis. In conclusion, the mechanism of Nano-Se biofortification for red pitaya might be fortifying pigment, as well as the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant substances formation by regulating primary and secondary metabolism facilitated by Se accumulation.

Exploration of the Potential Mechanism of Yujin Powder treating Dampness-heat Diarrhea by Integrating UPLC-MS/MS and Network Pharmacology Prediction.

BACKGROUND: Yujin powder (YJP) is a classic prescription for treating dampness-heat diarrhea (DHD) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), but the main functional active ingredients and the exact mechanisms have not been systematically studied. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to preliminarily explore the potential mechanisms of YJP for treating DHD by integrating UPLC-MS/MS and network pharmacology methods. METHODS: Ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technology was used to determine the ingredients of YJP. And then, the targets of these components were predicted and screened from TCMSP, SwissTargetPrediction databases. The disease targets related to DHD were obtained by using the databases of GeneCards, OMIM, DisGeNET, TTD, and DrugBank. The protein-protein interaction networks (PPI) of YJP-DHD were constructed using the STRING database and Origin 2022 software to identify the cross-targets by screening the core-acting targets and a network diagram by Cytoscape 3.8.2 software was also constructed. Metascape database was used for performing GO and KEGG enrichment anlysis on the core genes. Finally, molecular docking was used to verify the results with AutoDock 4.2.6, AutoDock Tools 1.5.6, PyMOL 2.4.0, and Open Babel 2.3.2 software. RESULTS: 597 components in YJP were detected, and 153 active components were obtained through database screening, among them the key active ingredients include coptisine, berberine, baicalein, etc. There were 362 targets treating DHD, among them the core targets included TNF, IL-6, ALB, etc. The enriched KEGG pathways mainly involve PI3K-Akt, TNF, MAPK, etc. Molecular docking results showed that coptisine, berberine, baicalein, etc., had a strong affinity with TNF, IL-6, and MAPK14. Therefore, TNF, IL-6, MAPK14, ALB, etc., are the key targets of the active ingredients of YJP coptisine, baicalein, and berberine, etc. They have the potential to regulate PI3K-Akt, MAPK, and TNF signalling pathways. The component-target-disease network diagram revealed that YJP treated DHD through the effects of anti-inflammation, anti-diarrhea, immunoregulation, and improving intestinal mucosal injury. CONCLUSION: It is demonstrated that YJP treats DHD mainly through the main active ingredients coptisine, berberine, baicalein, etc. comprehensively exerting the effects of anti-inflammation, anti-diarrhea, immunoregulation, and improving intestinal mucosal injury, which will provide evidence for further in-depth studying the mechanism of YJP treating DHD.

A biodegradable chitosan-based polymer for sustained nutrient release to stimulate groundwater hydrocarbon-degrading microflora.

Petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated groundwater often has a low indigenous microorganism population and lacks the necessary nutrient substrates for biodegradation reaction, resulting in a weak natural remediation ability within the groundwater ecosystem. In this paper, we utilized the principle of petroleum hydrocarbon degradation by microorganisms to identify effective nutrients (NaH2PO4, K2HPO4, NH4NO3, CaCl2, MgSO4·7H2O, FeSO4·7H2O, and VB12) and optimize nutrient substrate allocation through a combination of actual surveys of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated sites and microcosm experiments. Building on this, combining biostimulation and controlled-release technology, we developed a biodegradable chitosan-based encapsulated targeted biostimulant (i.e., YZ-1) characterized by easy uptake, good stability, controllable slow-release migration, and longevity to stimulate indigenous microflora in groundwater to efficiently degrade petroleum hydrocarbon. Results showed that YZ-1 extended the active duration of nutrient components by 5-6 times, with a sustainable release time exceeding 2 months. Under YZ-1 stimulation, microorganisms grew rapidly, increasing the degradation rate of petroleum hydrocarbon (10 mg L-1) by indigenous microorganisms from 43.03% to 79.80% within 7 d. YZ-1 can easily adapt to varying concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated groundwater. Specifically, in the range of 2-20 mg L-1 of petroleum hydrocarbon, the indigenous microflora was able to degrade 71.73-80.54% of the petroleum hydrocarbon within a mere 7 d. YZ-1 injection facilitated the delivery of nutrient components into the underground environment, improved the conversion ability of inorganic electron donors/receptors in the indigenous microbial community system, and strengthened the co-metabolism mechanism among microorganisms, achieving the goal of efficient petroleum hydrocarbon degradation.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Peripheral Facial Palsy Caused by Wisdom Tooth Extraction: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral facial palsy is characterized by acute peripheral facial nerve paralysis. While most cases have no identifiable cause, some are linked to infectious or noninfectious factors. The potential connection between herpes simplex virus-1 and peripheral facial palsy has been studied since the 1970s, with a small number of cases reported following tooth extraction. Patients who have treatment delayed for over a year and still exhibit no signs of recovery have a bleak prognosis. In this case, factors contributing to facial paralysis in this patient are facial nerve injury as a result of wisdom teeth extraction, improper nursing, and delayed treatment. CASE PRESENTATION: A 23-year-old female presented with numbness and stiffness on the right side of the outer skin around the lips. These symptoms persisted for about 4 years after the extraction of the right lower wisdom tooth. Physical examination revealed House-Brackmann grade II peripheral facial paralysis. Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine treatments were initiated with an aim to facilitate nerve repair and neurofacilitation in the affected area. Following a 4-week course of treatment, the patient experienced a decrease in numbness and stiffness in the area, and treatment was discontinued. CONCLUSION: The combination of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine is a safe and promising supplementary therapy for peripheral facial palsy caused by wisdom tooth extraction. Nevertheless, it is imperative to conduct larger scale and randomized controlled studies to determine whether these complementary interventions have a significant additive or synergistic effect toward achieving complete recovery in the patients.Die periphere Fazialisparese ist durch eine akute periphere Gesichtsnervenlähmung gekennzeichnet. Meist ist keine erkennbare Ursache feststellbar, doch besteht bei einigen Fällen ein Zusammenhang mit infektiösen oder nicht-infektiösen Faktoren. Ein möglicher Zusammenhang zwischen dem Herpes-simplex-Virus-1 (HSV-1) und der peripheren Fazialisparese wird seit den 1970er Jahren untersucht, und es wurde über eine kleine Zahl von Fällen nach einer Zahnextraktion berichtet. Patienten, bei denen die Behandlung erst nach einjähriger Verzögerung oder noch später beginnt und die keine Anzeichen für eine Besserung zeigen, haben eine ungünstige Prognose. In diesem Fall sind die Faktoren, die zur Gesichtslähmung des Patienten beitragen, eine Verletzung des Nervus facialis infolge der Weisheitszahnextraktion, unsachgemäße Pflege und ein verzögerter Behandlungsbeginn.Eine 23-jährige Frau stellte sich mit Taubheitsgefühl und Steifigkeit auf der rechten Seite im Bereich der äußeren Haut um die Lippen herum vor. Die Symptome bestanden seit der Extraktion des rechten unteren Weisheitszahns etwa 4 Jahre zuvor. Die körperliche Untersuchung ergab eine periphere Fazialisparese Grad II nach House-Brackmann. Es wurde eine Behandlung mit Akupunktur und traditioneller chinesischer Medizin begonnen, um die Nervenreparatur und die Neurofazilitation im betroffenen Bereich zu fördern. Nach vierwöchiger Behandlung kam es bei der Patientin zu einer Abnahme des Taubheitsgefühls und der Steifigkeit im betroffenen Bereich und die Behandlung wurde beendet.Die Kombination von Akupunktur und traditioneller chinesischer Medizin ist eine sichere und erfolgversprechende ergänzende Therapie für die periphere Fazialisparese nach Weisheitszahnextraktion. Allerdings müssen unbedingt größere und randomisierte kontrollierte Studien durchgeführt werden, um festzustellen, ob diese komplementärmedizinischen Methoden in Hinblick auf das Ziel einer vollständiger Genesung der Patienten einen signifikanten additiven oder synergistischen Effekt haben.

Doped nanomaterial facilitates 3D printing target plate for rapid detection of alkaloids in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

This work aims to rapidly detect toxic alkaloids in traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) using laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS). We systematically investigated twelve nanomaterials (NMs) as matrices and found that MoS2 and defect-rich-WO3 (D-WO3) were the best NMs for alkaloid detection. MoS2 and D-WO3 can be used directly as matrices dipped onto conventional ground steel target plates. Additionally, they can be conveniently fabricated as three-dimensional (3D) NM plates, where the MoS2 or D-WO3 NM is doped into resin and formed using a 3D printing process. We obtained good quantification of alkaloids using a chemothermal compound as an internal standard and detected related alkaloids in TCM extracts, Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata), Caowu (Aconiti Kusnezoffii Radix), Chuanwu (Aconiti Radix), and Houpo (Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex). The work enabled the advantageous "dip and measure" method, demonstrating a simple and fast LDI-MS approach that achieves clean backgrounds for alkaloid detection. The 3D NM plates also facilitated mass spectrometry imaging of alkaloids in TCMs. This method has potential practical applications in medicine and food safety. Doped nanomaterial facilitates 3D printing target plate for rapid detection of alkaloids in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

[Prediction and analysis of Q-markers of Elephantopus scaber based on its UPLC fingerprint, content determination of components, and in vitro a nti-tumor activity].

This study aimed to provide scientific evidence for predicting quality markers(Q-markers) of Elephantopus scaber by establishing UPLC fingerprint of E. scaber from different geographical origins and determining the content of 13 major components, as well as conducting in vitro anti-cancer activity investigation of the main components. The chromatographic column used was Waters CORTECS UPLC C_(18)(2.1 mm×150 mm, 1.6 µm), and the mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid solution(gradient elution). The column temperature was set at 30 ℃, and the flow rate was 0.2 mL·min~(-1). The injection volume was 1 µL, and the detection wavelength was 240 nm. The UPLC fingerprint of E. scaber was fitted using the Similarity Evaluation System for Chromatographic Fingerprint of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2012 edition) to determine common peaks, evaluate similarity, identify and determine the content of major components. The CCK-8 assay was used to explore the inhibitory effect of the main components on the proliferation of lung cancer cells. The results showed that in the established UPLC fingerprint of E. scaber, 35 common peaks were identified. Thirteen major components, including neochlorogenic acid(peak 1), chlorogenic acid(peak 2), cryptochlorogenic acid(peak 3), caffeic acid(peak 4), schaftoside(peak 6), galuteolin(peak 9), isochlorogenic acid B(peak 10), isochlorogenic acid A(peak 12), isochlorogenic acid C(peak 18), deoxyelephantopin(peak 28), isodeoxyelephantopin(peak 29), isoscabertopin(peak 31), and scabertopin(peak 32) were identified and quantified, and a quantitative analysis method was established. The results of the in vitro anti-cancer activity study showed that deoxyelephantopin, isodeoxyelephantopin, isoscabertopin, and scabertopin in E. scaber exhibited inhibition rates of lung cancer cell proliferation exceeding 80% at a concentration of 10 µmol·L~(-1), higher than the positive drug paclitaxel. These results indicate that the fingerprint of E. scaber is highly characteristic, and the quantitative analysis method is accurate and stable, providing references for the research on quality standards of E. scaber. Four sesquiterpene lactones in E. scaber show significant anti-cancer activity and can serve as Q-markers for E. scaber.