Isorhamnetin: what is the in vitro evidence for its antitumor potential and beyond?

Isorhamnetin (ISO) is a phenolic compound belonging to flavonoid family, showcasing important in vitro pharmacological activities such as antitumor, anti-inflammation, and organ protection. ISO is predominantly extracted from Hippophae rhamnoides L. This plant is well-known in China and abroad because of its "medicinal and food homologous" characteristics. As a noteworthy natural drug candidate, ISO has received considerable attention in recent years owing to its low cost, wide availability, high efficacy, low toxicity, and minimal side effects. To comprehensively elucidate the multiple biological functions of ISO, particularly its antitumor activities and other pharmacological potentials, a literature search was conducted using electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. This review primarily focuses on ISO's ethnopharmacology. By synthesizing the advancements made in existing research, it is found that the general effects of ISO involve a series of in vitro potentials, such as antitumor, protection of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, and more. This review illustrates ISO's antitumor and other pharmacological potentials, providing a theoretical basis for further research and new drug development of ISO.

Xin-Yi-Qing-Fei-Tang and its critical components reduce asthma symptoms by suppressing GM-CSF and COX-2 expression in RBL-2H3 cells.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) XYQFT is composed of 10 herbs. According to the NHIRD, XYQFT is one of the top ten most commonly used TCM prescriptions for asthma treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to explore whether XYQFT reduces asthma symptoms in a mouse model of chronic asthma and determine the immunomodulatory mechanism of mast cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: BALB/c mice were intratracheally (it) stimulated with 40 µL (2.5 µg/µL) of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) once a week for 6 consecutive weeks and orally administered XYQFT at 1 g/kg 30 min before Der p stimulation. Airway hypersensitivity, inflammatory cells in the BALF and total IgE in the blood were assessed in mice. In addition, RBL-2H3 cells (mast cells) were stimulated with DNP-IgE, after which different concentrations of XYQFT were added for 30 min to evaluate the effect of XYQFT on the gene expression and degranulation of DNP-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. After the compounds in XYQFT were identified using LC‒MS/MS, the PBD method was used to identify the chemical components that inhibited the expression of the GM-CSF and COX-2 genes in mast cells. RESULTS: The airway hypersensitivity assay demonstrated that XYQFT significantly alleviated Der p-induced airway hypersensitivity. Moreover, cell counting and typing of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid revealed a significant reduction in Der p-induced inflammatory cell infiltration with XYQFT treatment. ELISA examination further indicated a significant decrease in Der p-induced total IgE levels in serum following XYQFT administration. In addition, XYQFT inhibited the degranulation and expression of genes (IL-3, IL-4, ALOX-5, IL-13, GM-CSF, COX-2, TNF-α, and MCP-1) in RBL-2H3 cells after DNP stimulation. The compounds timosaponin AIII and genkwanin in XYQFT were found to be key factors in the inhibition of COX-2 and GM-CSF gene expression in mast cells. CONCLUSION: By regulating mast cells, XYQFT inhibited inflammatory cell infiltration, airway hypersensitivity and specific immunity in a mouse model of asthma. In addition, XYQFT synergistically inhibited the expression of the GM-CSF and COX-2 genes in mast cells through timosaponin AIII and genkwanin.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis on Shenfu Qiangxin indicate mTOR is a potential target to treat heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) is one of the major causes of mortality worldwide with high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Our study aimed to investigate potential mechanisms and drug targets of Shenfu Qiangxin (SFQX), a cardiotonic-diuretic traditional Chinese medicine, in treating HF. METHODS: An HF-related and SFQX-targeted gene set was established using disease-gene databases and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database. We performed gene function and pathway enrichment analysis and constructed protein-protein interaction (PPI) network to investigate the potential mechanisms. We also performed molecular docking to analyze the interaction patterns between the active compounds and targeted protein. RESULTS: A gene set with 217 genes was identified. The gene function enrichment indicated that SFQX can regulate apoptotic process, inflammatory response, response to oxidative stress and cellular response to hypoxia. The pathway enrichment indicated that most genes were involved in PI3K-Akt pathway. Eighteen hub target genes were identified in PPI network and subnetworks. mTOR was the key gene among hub genes, which are involved in PI3K-Akt pathway. The molecular docking analysis indicated that 6 active compounds of SFQX can bind to the kinase domain of mTOR, which exerted potential therapeutic mechanisms of SFQX in treating HF. CONCLUSIONS: The results of network pharmacology analysis highlight the intervention on PI3K-Akt pathway of SFQX in the treatment of HF. mTOR is a key drug target to help protect myocardium.

Gastrodin regulates the TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathway to reduce neuroinflammation and microglial activation in an AD model.

BACKGROUND: Gastrodia elata (Orchidaceae) is a medicinal plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. The rhizomes contain numerous active components, of which Gastrodin (p-hydroxymethylphenyl-B-D-glucopyranoside) forms the basis of the traditional medicine Gastrodiae Rhizoma. Gastrodin is also found in other medicinal plants and has neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in neurodegeneration. Research indicates that consuming meals and drinks containing Gastrodiaelata can enhance cognitive functioning and memory in elderly patients. The mechanisms relevant to the problem have not been completely understood. PURPOSE: The aim was to examine the in vivo and in vitro anti-neuroinflammatory effects of Gastrodin. STUDY DESIGN: The neuroprotective effects of Gastrodin on the TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathway and Stat3 phosphorylation in LPS-treated C57BL/6 mice and BV-2 cells were investigated. METHODS: 1. C57BL/6 mice were assigned to model, gastrodin, donepezil, and control groups (n = 10 per group). The Gastrodin group received 100 mg/kg/d for five days, and the Dopenezil group 1.3 mg/kg/d. A neuroinflammation model was established by administering intraperitoneal injections of 2 mg/kg LPS to all groups, excluding the control. To induce microglial activation in Gastrodin-treated mouse microglial BV-2 cells, 1 µg/ml LPS was introduced for 24 h Morris water mazes were utilized to evaluate learning and spatial memory. Expression and subcellular localization of TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB axis-related proteins and p-Stat3, Iba-1, GFAP, iNOS, and CD206 were assessed by immunofluorescence, western blots, and ELISA. qRT-PCR was performed to determine and measure IL-1ß, TNF-α, cell migration, and phagocytosis. Overexpression of TRAF6 was induced by transfection, and the effect of Gastrodin on IL-1ß and p-NF-κB p65 levels was assessed. RESULTS: 1. In mice, gastrodin treatment mitigated LPS-induced deficits in learning and spatial memory, as well as reducing neuroinflammation in the hippocampus, expression of TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathway proteins, activation of microglia and astrocytes, and phosphorylation of Stat3. 2. Gastrodin pretreatment improved LPS-induced inflammation in vitro, reducing expression of TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB-associated proteins and p-Stat3, inducing microglial transformation from M1 to M2, and inhibiting migration and phagocytosis. Overexpression of TRAF6 inhibited the Gastrodin-induced effects. CONCLUSION: Gastrodin suppresses neuroinflammation and microglial activation by modifying the TLR4/TRAF6/NF-κB pathway and Stat3 phosphorylation.

Effects of glutaraldehyde and povidone-iodine on apoptosis of grass carp liver and hepatocytes.

Since disinfectants are used all over the world to treat illnesses in people and other animals, they pose a major risk to human health. The comprehensive effects of disinfectant treatments on fish liver, especially the impacts on oxidative stress, toxicological effects, transcriptome profiles, and apoptosis, have not yet been fully analyzed. In the current investigation, healthy grass carp were exposed to 80 µg/L glutaraldehyde or 50 µg/L povidone-iodine for 30 days. First, the findings of enzyme activity tests demonstrated that the administration of glutaraldehyde could considerably increase oxidative stress by lowering T-SOD, CAT, and GPx and raising MDA. Furthermore, KEGG research revealed that exposure to glutaraldehyde and povidone-iodine stimulated the PPAR signal pathway. To further elucidate the transcriptome results, the relative expressions of related DEGs in the PPAR signal pathway were verified. Glutaraldehyde induced apoptosis in liver tissue of grass carp; however, it activated cytotoxicity and apoptosis in grass carp hepatocytes when exposed to glutaraldehyde or povidone-iodine. According to the current study, disinfectants can cause the impairment of the immune system, oxidative stress, and attenuation of the PPAR signal pathway in the liver of grass carp, making them detrimental as dietary supplements for grass carp, particularly in the aquaculture sector.

Determination of the total antioxidant capacity of the Chinese tea based on a novel "peroxidase/zirconium phosphonate"composite electrochemical sensor.

In this work, a novel zirconium phosphonate (ZrPR1R2) was prepared by decorating both the aminoethoxy- group (R1) and the carboxypropyl- group (R2) on the zirconium phosphate layers in order to manipulate further the immobilization of the peroxidase (POD), and an antioxidant biosensor with higher sensitivity was constructed by dropping the POD/ZrPR1R2 composite onto the glassy carbon electrode surface. The activity of the POD/ZrPR1R2 composite was detected by Uv-vis spectra. The direct electrochemical behavior, the electrocatalytic response to dissolved oxygen and hydrogen peroxide, as well as the ability to detect total antioxidant capacity in tea sample were investigated by the methods of cyclic voltammetry. The results indicated that the immobilization of POD in ZrPR1R2 nanosheets matrix enhanced the enzymatic activity, and achieved the fast and direct electron transfer between POD and glassy carbon electrode. Moreover, the POD/ZrPR1R2 composite modified electrode show the electrocatalytic response to hydrogen peroxide in the linear range of 8.8×10-8 to 8.8×10-7 mol L-1, with the detection limit of 3.3×10-8 mol L-1. Attributing to the sensitive response to dissolved oxygen, the total antioxidant capacity can be detected directly in the real tea water by this POD/ZrPR1R2 composite modified electrode.

Effective substances and molecular mechanisms guided by network pharmacology: An example study of Scrophulariae Radix treatment of hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone-induced liver and kidney injuries.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Scrophulariae Radix (Xuanshen [XS]) has been used for several years to treat hyperthyroidism. However, its effective substances and pharmacological mechanisms in the treatment of hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone-induced liver and kidney injuries have not yet been elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to explore the pharmacological material basis and potential mechanism of XS therapy for hyperthyroidism and thyroid hormone-induced liver and kidney injuries based on network pharmacology prediction and experimental validation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on 31 in vivo XS compounds identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadruple exactive orbitrap high-resolution accurate-mass spectrometry (UPLC-QE-HRMS), a network pharmacology approach was used for mechanism prediction. Systematic networks were constructed to identify the potential molecular targets, biological processes (BP), and signaling pathways. A component-target-pathway network was established. Mice were administered levothyroxine sodium through gavage for 30 d and then treated with different doses of XS extract with or without propylthiouracil (PTU) for 30 d. Blood, liver, and kidney samples were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blotting. RESULTS: A total of 31 prototypes, 60 Phase I metabolites, and 23 Phase II metabolites were tentatively identified in the plasma of rats following the oral administration of XS extract. Ninety-six potential common targets between the 31 in vivo compounds and the diseases were identified. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that Bcl-2, BAD, JNK, p38, and ERK1/2 were the top targets. XS extract with or without PTU had the following effects: inhibition of T3/T4/fT3/fT4 caused by levothyroxine; increase of TSH levels in serum; restoration of thyroid structure; improvement of liver and kidney structure and function by elevating the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes catalase (CAT),superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px); activation anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2; inhibition the apoptotic protein p-BAD; downregulation inflammation-related proteins p-ERK1/2, p-JNK, and p-p38; and inhibition of the aggregation of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6, as well as immune cells in the liver. CONCLUSION: XS can be used to treat hyperthyroidism and liver and kidney injuries caused by thyroid hormones through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. In addition, serum pharmacochemical analysis revealed that five active compounds, namely 4-methylcatechol, sugiol, eugenol, acetovanillone, and oleic acid, have diverse metabolic pathways in vivo and exhibit potential as effective therapeutic agents.

Enhancing precision in lung tumor ablation through innovations in CT-guided technique and angle control.

BACKGROUND: This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the precision and safety outcomes of image-guided lung percutaneous thermal ablation (LPTA) methods, focusing on radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA). The study utilized an innovative angle reference guide to facilitate these techniques in the treatment of lung tumors. METHODS: This study included individuals undergoing LPTA with the assistance of laser angle guide assembly (LAGA) at our hospital between April 2011 and March 2021. We analyzed patient demographics, tumor characteristics, procedure details, and complications. Logistic regressions were employed to assess risk factors associated with complications. RESULTS: A total of 202 patients underwent ablation for 375 lung tumors across 275 sessions involving 495 ablations. Most procedures used RFA, especially in the right upper lobe, and the majority of ablations were performed in the prone position (49.7%). Target lesions were at a median depth of 39.3 mm from the pleura surface, and remarkably, 91.9% required only a single puncture. Complications occurred in 31.0% of ablations, with pneumothorax being the most prevalent (18.3%), followed by pain (12.5%), sweating (6.5%), fever (5.0%), cough (4.8%), hemothorax (1.6%), hemoptysis (1.2%), pleural effusion (2.0%), skin burn (0.6%), and air emboli (0.2%). The median procedure time was 21 min. Notably, smoking/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease emerged as a significant risk factor for complications. CONCLUSION: The LAGA-assisted LPTA enhanced safety by improving accuracy and reducing risks. Overall, this investigation contributes to the ongoing efforts to refine and improve the clinical application of these thermal ablation techniques in the treatment of lung tumors.

The association between interest of nutritional supplements and COVID-19 pandemic - evidence from Google Trends.

BACKGROUND: Due to the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in 2020, the interest of nutritional supplements has emerged. Limited data are available on how the COVID-19 pandemic affects the search interest in nutritional supplements in Taiwan and worldwide. The study aims to investigate changes in public search interest of nutritional supplements pre- and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Our World in Data dataset was used to collect both global and local (Taiwan) number of COVID-19 newly confirmed cases and deaths. Google Trends search query was being used to obtain relative search volumes (RSVs) covering a timeframe between 2019 to 2022. Spearman's rank-order correlation coefficients were used to measure relationships between confirmed new cases and deaths and RSVs of nutritional supplements. Multivariate analysis was conducted to examine the effect of domestic and global new cases and deaths on the RSVs of nutritional supplements. RESULTS: The mean RSVs for nutritional supplements were higher during the COVID-19 pandemic period (between 2020 to 2022) compared to the pre-pandemic period (year of 2019) for both Taiwan and worldwide. In terms of seasonal variations, except for vitamin D, the mean RSVs of probiotics, vitamin B complex, and vitamin C in winter were significantly lower compared to other seasons in Taiwan. The RSVs of nutritional supplements were not only affected by domestic cases and deaths but also by global new cases and deaths. CONCLUSIONS: The interests in nutritional supplements had substantially increased in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The RSVs of nutritional supplements in Taiwan were not only influenced by global and domestic pandemic severity but also by seasons.

Exploring the efficacy and mechanism of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma in improving collagen-induced arthritis in mice.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic auto-immune disease, will cause serious joint damage and disability. Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (GRR) is commonly included in many anti-RA formulas used in the clinical practice in China. AIM OF THE STUDY: To elucidate the alleviation of GRR and its active compounds on RA and the possible engaged mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical score, paw swelling degree and pain threshold were detected in the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in DBA/1 mice. The ankle joints of mice were observed by using X-Ray, hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), masson's trichrome (Masson), and safranin O and fast green (Safranin O) staining. The potential targets of GRR were predicted by network pharmacology and further verified by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western-blot. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) and wound healing assay were conducted in synovial MH7A cells. The interaction between active compounds and potential targets predicted by molecular docking was confirmed by using cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA). RESULTS: GRR (615 mg/kg) obviously alleviated CIA in mice. Network pharmacology implied that GRR might affect angiogenesis and inflammation, among which vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), IL-6 and phosphorylated protein kinase B (AKT) might be the key targets involved in this process. GRR decreased AKT phosphorylation and reduced the elevated levels of TNFα, VEGF-A, IL-1ß and IL-6. Next, in vitro results demonstrated that glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) and isoliquiritigenin (ISL) were two active compounds that inhibited TNFα-induced synovial cell angiogenesis and inflammation. Moreover, GA and ISL actually improved RA in CIA mice. The results of molecular docking and CETSA displayed that ISL and GA might interact with TNF receptor-1 (TNFR1), toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) and VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR2), thereby contributing to their inhibition on angiogenesis and inflammation. CONCLUSION: GRR and two active compounds, including ISL and GA, alleviated RA via inhibiting angiogenesis and inflammation.

Investigation of the active ingredients of Shuangshen Ningxin Fomula and the mechanism underlying their protective effects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by mass spectrometric imaging.

BACKGROUND: Traditional Chinese medicine, particularly Shuangshen Ningxin Capsule (SSNX), has been studied intensely. SSNX includes total ginseng saponins (from Panax ginseng Meyer), total phenolic acids from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, and total alkaloids from Corydalis yanhusuo W. T. Wang. It has been suggested to protect against myocardial ischemia by a mechanism that has not been fully elucidated. METHODS: The composition and content of SSNX were determined by UHPLC-Q-TOFQ-TOF / MS. Then, a rat model of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury was established, and the protective effect of SSNX was measured. The protective mechanism was investigated using spatial metabolomics. RESULTS: We found that SSNX significantly improved left ventricular function and ameliorated pathological damages in rats with myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), the protective mechanism of SSNX was examined by comparing the monomer components of drugs targeted in myocardial tissue with the distribution of myocardial energy metabolism-related molecules and phospholipids. Interestingly, some lipids display inconsistent content distribution in the myocardial ischemia risk and non-risk zones. These discrepancies reflect the degree of myocardial injury in different regions. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that SSNX protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by correcting abnormal myocardial energy metabolism, changing the levels and distribution patterns of phospholipids, and stabilizing the structure of the myocardial cell membrane. MALDI-TOF MS can detect the spatial distribution of small molecule metabolites in the myocardium and can be used in pharmacological research.

Associations of unintended pregnancy with autism spectrum disorders and the modification of folic acid supplements.

There is limited evidence on the associations of unintended pregnancy with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This study aimed to examine this relationship and the modification of pre-conceptional and prenatal folic acid supplements. Six thousand and five toddlers aged 16 to 30 months from seven cities of six provinces in China were eligible for participation. Information on unintended pregnancy and folic acid supplements was obtained via questionnaires from caregivers of toddlers. The diagnosis of ASD was based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and the Chinese version of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Of the 6005 toddlers in the study (3337 boys and 2668 girls), 71 (1.18%) received the diagnosis of ASD. Generalized linear models with a logit link function showed unintended pregnancy was positively associated with ASD (odds ratios [OR] = 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-2.79). Stratified estimates indicated that the association remained stable among toddlers of mothers without pre-conceptional and prenatal folic acid supplements (OR = 2.75, 95% CI, 1.04-7.27; n = 1243, 20.70%). Unintended pregnancy was associated with higher odds of ASD in 16-30 months of toddlers, and the association was consistent among toddlers of mothers without prenatal folic acid supplements. Our findings emphasize the need to raise awareness of the risk of unintended pregnancy and the benefits of folic acid supplements among Chinese women.

Analysis of initial sandplay characteristics among university students with different levels of loneliness.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Loneliness is detrimental to mental health, with university students at higher risk of feeling lonely than other population groups. The mental health of college students is a hot topic at present. Despite numerous studies exploring interventions for loneliness among university students. However, little research has explored early psychological manifestations of university students with different levels of loneliness. Despite numerous studies exploring interventions for loneliness among university students, little research has explored early psychological manifestations of university students with different levels of loneliness. Initial sandplay is a good tool to reveal psychological activity. Therefore, our study aims to explore the characteristics of initial sandplay application among university students with different levels of loneliness. METHODS: We recruited 60 volunteers from a university to perform a sandplay experiment from January to April 2021. The UCLA Loneliness Scale measured the levels of loneliness. These 60 participants were divided into the experimental group (n = 30) and control group (n = 30) according to their levels of loneliness. The experimental group included participants with a scale score of more than 44. Other participants with a scale score of less than 44 belong to the control group. We recorded their sandplay artwork and statistically analyzed it by the Sandplay Process Record Form. Group comparisons were performed using the t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables, and the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables. The logistic regression analysis by forward stepwise method was conducted to analyze the sandplay theme features for loneliness. RESULTS: Regarding the sandplay tools, the experimental group used fewer transportation tools (t=-3.608, p < 0.01) and more natural elements (t = 2.176, p < 0.05) than the control group. Moreover, the experimental group created more natural scenes (χ2 = 4.310, p < 0.05) and used less of the lower left (χ2 = 4.593, p < 0.05) and lower right (χ2 = 5.934, p < 0.05) spaces. With regards to sand changes, the experimental group was less likely than the control group to make substantial changes (χ2 = 5.711, p < 0.05) and more likely to make almost no changes (χ2 = 4.022, p < 0.05). In terms of the themes, the experimental group was more likely to exhibit sandplay artwork themes of emptiness (χ2 = 8.864, p < 0.05) and neglect (χ2 = 6.667, p < 0.05), and less likely to show themes of energy (χ2 = 5.079, p < 0.05). In the logistic regression analysis of the sandplay themes, emptiness (OR = 5.714, 95%CI: 1.724-18.944, p = 0.003) and neglect (OR = 7.000, 95%CI: 1.381-35.479, p = 0.010) were demonstrated a nominal association with high levels of loneliness among both groups (F = 16.091, p < 0.01, ΔR2 = 0.193), but failed to pass the Bonferroni testing correction (p threshold < 0.0025). CONCLUSION: University students with higher degree of loneliness do not like to drastic changes and prefer to use natural elements in element selection, while the control group likes to drastic changes and prefers to use transportation tools in element selection. Regression analysis of sandplay theme features revealed emptines and neglect may as significant associated factors for loneliness. We propose sandplay characteristics can help identify university students with different levels of loneliness during psychological evaluations. Therefore, it is important that the school and healthcare systems assist college students in identifying the loneliness through initial sandplay and carrying on the necessary psychological counseling to the lonely student population.

Effects of zhongfeng cutong moxibustion on motor function and corticospinal tract in the patients with motor dysfunction during the recovery period of cerebral infarction. / ä¸­é£Žä¿ƒé€šç¸å¯¹è„‘æ¢—æ­»æ¢å¤æœŸè¿åŠ¨åŠŸèƒ½éšœç¢æ‚£è€ è¿åŠ¨åŠŸèƒ½åŠçš®è´¨è„Šé«“æŸçš„å½±å“.

OBJECTIVES: To observe the effects of zhongfeng cutong moxibustion (moxibustion therapy for unblocking and treating stroke) on the motor function and the structure of corticospinal tract (CST) in the patients with motor dysfunction during the recovery period of cerebral infarction, and to explore the central mechanism of this moxibustion therapy for improving the motor function. METHODS: Fifty patients with motor dysfunction during the recovery period of cerebral infarction were randomly divided into an observation group (25 cases, 1 case dropped out) and a control group (25 cases, 1 case dropped out). The patients in both groups underwent the conventional basic treatment. In the control group, acupuncture was applied to Baihui (GV 20) and Shuigou (GV 26), as well as Chize (LU 5), Neiguan (PC 6), Weizhong (BL 40) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) etc. on the affected side. Besides the intervention of the control group, in the observation group, zhongfeng cutong moxibustion therapy was combined at Baihui (GV 20), Shenque (CV 8) and bilateral Zusanli (ST 36). Both acupuncture and moxibustion therapies were delivered once daily, 5 times a week, for 2 weeks. The scores of Fugl-Meyer assessment scale (FMA) and National Institutes of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) were compared between the two groups before and after treatment. The diffusion tensor imaging technique was used to observe the fractional anisotropy (FA) of CST at the bilateral whole segment, the cerebral cortex, the posterior limb of the internal capsule and the cerebral peduncle before and after treatment in the two groups. RESULTS: The scores of the upper and the lower limbs of FMA, as well as the total FMA score swere increased after treatment when compared with those before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), the upper limb FMA score and the total FMA score in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05), and NIHSS scores of the two groups were dropped compared with those before treatment (P<0.01). FA of CST at the bilateral sides of the posterior limb of the internal capsule and the whole segment on the focal side was improved in comparison with that before treatment in the observation group (P<0.05), and FA of CST at the healthy side of the whole segment was higher than that before treatment in the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Zhongfeng cutong moxibustion improves motor function and reduces neurological deficits in the patients with motor dysfunction during the recovery period of cerebral infarction, which may be related to enhancing the remodeling of white matter fiber bundles in the corticospinal tract on the focal side of the whole segment and the bilateral posterior limb of the internal capsule.

Molecular mechanism overview of metabolite biosynthesis in medicinal plants.

Medicinal plants are essential and rich resources for plant-based medicines and new drugs. Increasing attentions are paid to the secondary metabolites of medicinal plants due to their unique biological activity, pharmacological action, and high utilization value. However, the development of medicinal plants is constrained by limited natural resources and an unclear understanding of the mechanisms underlying active medicinal ingredients, thereby rendering the utilization and exploration of secondary metabolites more challenging. Besides, with the advancement of research on biosynthesis and molecular metabolism of natural products from medicinal plants, the methods for studying the biological activity and pharmacological effects of these products are constantly evolving. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the biosynthetic pathways and related regulatory genes of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants, which has greatly advanced both basic research and the development of clinical applications for medicinal plants. In this review, we discuss the past two decades of international research on the development of medicinal plant resources, mainly focusing on the biosynthetic pathway of secondary metabolites, intracellular signal transduction processes, multi-omics applications, and the application of gene editing technology in related research progress. We also discuss future development trends to promote the deep mining and development of natural products from medicinal plants, providing a useful reference.

Impact of dietary zinc on the growth performance, histopathological analysis, antioxidant capability, and inflammatory response of largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides.

Zinc plays a crucial role in the antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory response of aquatic species, but its impact on largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides is rarely reported. Therefore, this paper aimed to investigate the effects of different levels of zinc on the growth performance, histopathology, antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory cytokines of largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides. Fish with an initial weight of 7.84 ± 0.06 g were cultured for 10 weeks. Five experimental diets were prepared with supplemented proteinate Zn (Bioplex Zn, Alltech) (0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 mg/kg), which were named the Zn-42, Zn-73, Zn-103, Zn-133, and Zn-164 groups. No evident difference was found between the dietary zinc level and the survival rate, the crude lipid content of the whole fish, or the visceral somatic index. Weight gain, condition factor, whole-body crude protein content, interleukin-10, and transforming growth factor beta gene expression were gradually enhanced with up to 102.68 mg/kg zinc and decreased at higher levels. The hepatosomatic index, feed conversion ratio, malondialdehyde level in the liver, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine transaminase activity in the serum, gradually decreased up to 102.68 mg/kg zinc, and gradually increased beyond this. Activation of the nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 signaling pathway gradually up-regulated the mRNA levels and activities of glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in the liver, this antioxidant ability was lower when the zinc was greater than 102.68 mg/kg. The gene expressions of nuclear factor-k-gene binding and pro-inflammation cytokines (interleukin-1ß, interleukin-15, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-8) were up-regulated up to 102.68 mg/kg zinc and then gradually repressed. In conclusion, using broken line analysis to estimate weight gain and Zn proteinate as the zinc source, the recommended dietary zinc for largemouth bass is 66.57 mg/kg zinc.

Effects of Mindfulness-Based Elder Care (MBEC) on symptoms of depression and anxiety and spiritual well-being of institutionalized seniors with disabilities: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Despite the need to incorporate seniors from various settings into mindfulness-based empirical research, issues of geriatric frailties and non-compliance remain. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a mindfulness-based elder care (MBEC) program on mental health and spiritual well-being among seniors with disabilities in long-term care residential settings. METHODS: This single-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) randomly assigned seventy-seven participants into an MBEC group or control group of an eight-week MBEC program. Participants were assessed every four weeks at baseline (T0), mid-intervention (T1), post-intervention (T2) and follow-up (T3) using the Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS-SF), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS), respectively. RESULTS: Linear mixed model (LMM) showed that MBEC participants' mental health improved significantly after completing the intervention; compared with controls, the MBEC group exhibited significantly lower anxiety (state-anxiety at T2; trait-anxiety at T2 and T3) and fewer depressive symptoms. Spiritual well-being was also significantly enhanced compared to that in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: MBEC has positive effects on both mental health and spiritual well-being outcomes among seniors with disabilities. In long-term care facilities, seniors with abilities have the potential to adhere to and engage in activities of a mindfulness-based intervention. This low risk, easily accessible, and effective 8-week program is recommended to be integrated into regular long-term care institutional routines. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered with Clinical Trial Registry (ClinicalTrials.gov - U.S. National Library of Medicine #NCT05123261. Retrospectively registered on 07/04/2021.). The CONSORT 2010 guidelines were used in this study for properly reporting how the randomized trial was conducted.

Effects of a prenatal mindfulness program on longitudinal changes in stress, anxiety, depression, and mother-infant bonding of women with a tendency to perinatal mood and anxiety disorder: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Stress is a risk factor for poor physical and mental health, affecting new mothers' ability, especially those with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, to maintain their everyday lives. Over the past 50 years, global incidences of depression and anxiety disorders have increased, reaching pandemic levels. These incidences represent major public health issues that are challenging to detect and treat. Mindfulness programs are viable for reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. The present study evaluates mindfulness intervention effects on stress, anxiety, depression, and mother-infant bonding. METHODS: We collected data on 102 women participating in a prenatal mindfulness program between July 2021 and March 2022; they were parallel and randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. The intervention group received an 8-week course in a prenatal mindfulness program, and the control group received usual standard prenatal care. The self-reported stress, pregnancy-related anxiety, and depression were assessed before and after the intervention and at 36 weeks of gestation. At 2 and 4 months postpartum, all participants provided self-reported their levels of stress, depression, and quality of mother-infant bonding. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, the experimental group that received the prenatal mindfulness intervention experienced reduced prenatal stress, anxiety, and depression and reduced postnatal stress and depression. Despite this, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the quality of mother-infant bonding. CONCLUSIONS: Mindfulness prenatal programs are convenient and effective methods of decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression during the perinatal period. Based on our findings, prenatal mindfulness may play a role in mitigating mood and anxiety disorders and should be considered in future approaches to preventing psychological distress. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: This trial has been prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04693130) and the first registration date was 12/24/2020.

Glucocorticoid supplementation during ovulation induction for assisted reproductive technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: There is ongoing interest in glucocorticoid treatment during oocyte stimulation to treat infertility in women who have undergone Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficiency and safety of adjuvant glucocorticoid therapy on pregnancy outcomes in infertile women undergoing ART cycles. STUDY DESIGN: A literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library up to December 2022. To assess the efficacy and safety of additional glucocorticoid treatment during ovulation induction in women who underwent IVF or ICSI treatment, only randomized controlled trials were included. RESULTS: Overall, glucocorticoid therapy during ovulation showed a nonsignificant effect of prednisolone improving the live birth rate (OR = 1.03, 95% CI [.75, 1.43], I2 = .0%, p = .84), abortion rate (OR = 1.14, 95% CI [.62, 2.08], I2 = 31%, p = .68), and implantation rate (OR = 1.1, 95% CI [.82, 1.5], I2 = 8%, p = .52) of infertile women compared to the control group. The present meta-analysis revealed that the clinical pregnancy rate per cycle tended to increase after glucocorticoid treatment (OR = 1.29, 95% CI [1.02, 1.63], I2 = 8%, p = .52). CONCLUSIONS: The present meta-analysis suggested that ovarian stimulation prednisolone therapy does not significantly improve clinical outcomes in women undergoing IVF/ICSI. Although the results indicated that adjuvant glucocorticoid therapy during ovarian stimulation may increase the clinical pregnancy rate, subgroup analysis showed that it was affected by infertility factors, dose schedules, and length of treatment. Therefore, these results should be interpreted with caution.