Regulation of bone and fat balance by Fructus Ligustri Lucidi in ovariectomized mice.

CONTEXT: Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL), a commonly used herb of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is the fruit of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. (Oleaceae). The ethanol extract of FLL is a potential candidate for preventing and treating postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) by nourishing the liver and kidneys. OBJECTIVE: This study determines whether an ethanol extract of FLL has anti-osteoporotic effects in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and explores the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The OVX model of eight-week-old C57BL/6J female mice was taken, and ovariectomy was used as PMOP. Mice were divided into five groups: sham-operated group (n = 10), OVX group (n = 10), OVX + E2 group (n = 10; 0.039 mg/kg), OVX + FLL group (n = 10; 2 g/kg) and OVX + FLL group (n = 10; 4 g/kg). Mice were treated by gavage with FLL or CMCNa once daily for 8 weeks. We harvested uteri, femur, and tibias from mice; bone mineral density (BMD) and bone microstructure were obtained by X-ray absorptiometry and micro-CT. Furthermore, the effect of FLL on the balance of osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation was investigated using bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs). RESULTS: The results indicated that FLL did not affect OVX-induced estradiol reduction. Compared with OVX mice, FLL significantly increased BMD (63.54 vs. 61.96), Conn. D (86.46 vs. 57.00), and left tibial strength (13.91 vs. 11.27), decreased Tb. Sp (0.38 vs. 0.44) and body fat content (4.19% vs. 11.24%). FLL decreased osteoclast activity and enhanced RUNX2 expression; inhibited perilipin peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression and adipocyte differentiation from BMMSCs. CONCLUSIONS: FLL prevented additional bone loss and improved bone microstructure in OVX mice by modulating bone and fat balance, suggesting that FLL might be a therapeutic agent for PMOP.

Application and problems analysis of traditional Chinese medicine volatile oil preparation technology based on ionic liquids / 中国中药杂志

Ionic liquids(ILs) are salts composed entirely of anions and cations in a liquid state at or near room temperature, which have a variety of good physicochemical properties such as low volatility and high stability. This paper mainly reviewed the research overview of ILs in the application of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) volatile oil preparation technology. Firstly, it briefly introduced the application of TCM volatile oil preparation technology and composition classification and physicochemical properties of ILs, and then summarized the application of ILs in the extraction, separation, analysis, and preparation of TCM volatile oil. Finally, the problems and challenges of ILs in the application of TCM volatile oil were explained, and the application of ILs in TCM volatile oil in the future was prospected.

Anti-osteoporosis effect of Semen Cuscutae in ovariectomized mice through inhibition of bone resorption by osteoclasts.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Semen Cuscutae, called Tu-si-zi in Chinese, is a kind of dried mature seed in the Convolvulaceae family. It mainly distributes in China, Korea, Pakistan, Vietnam, India and Thailand. It is used as a kidney-tonifying drug for treatment of aging related diseases such as osteoporosis in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the exact mechanisms on bone resorption are poorly studied. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential effect of Semen Cuscutae on ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis in mice and clarify the exact mechanisms by which Semen Cuscutae exert the anti-osteoporosis effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Qualitative and quantitative analyses of Semen Cuscutae were performed by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and HPLC-MS/MS, respectively. Changes in bone mineral density (BMD) induced by OVX in mice were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and micro-computed tomography (µCT). Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining as well as hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining were used to observe bone microarchitectural changes. ELISA kits were used to assess the therapeutic effects of Semen Cuscutae on the serum levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b), and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANKL). The effect of Semen Cuscutae on primary cell viability was assessed using CCK-8 and anti-tartrate phosphatase assays. TRAP staining and actin ring staining were used to observe the effect of Semen Cuscutae on osteoclast differentiation. Western blotting was used to measure the effects of Semen Cuscutae on expressions of NFATC1, c-Src kinase, and c-fos. RESULTS: Results from UPLC-Q-TOF-MS showed that the main components of Semen Cuscutae were flavonoid compounds that included quercitrin, quercetin, hyperoside, caffeic acid, rutin, chlorogenic acid, luteolin, apigenin, kaempferol, isoquercetin, cryptochlorogenic acid, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside, and astragalin. After the Semen Cuscutae extract was orally administered to OVX mice, bone density increased (P < 0.01) and bone microstructure was significantly improved (P < 0.01 or 0.05). Additionally, Semen Cuscutae exhibited a significant descending effect in the levels of serum TRACP-5b and RANKL, while there was a significant increase in OPG in the Semen Cuscutae group compared with the OVX group, especially at high doses. Moreover, we found that increasing of c-fos, c-Src kinase, and NFATC1 protein expressions were reversed by Semen Cuscutae in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that Semen Cuscutae exhibited anti-osteoporosis effects through the c-fos/c-Src kinase/NFATC1 signaling pathway.

Anti-perimenopausal osteoporosis effects of Erzhi formula via regulation of bone resorption through osteoclast differentiation: A network pharmacology-integrated experimental study.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Erzhi formula (EZF) consists of Ecliptae herba (EH) and Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL) at a ratio 1:1, and constitutes a well-known formula in China that is commonly used for treating menopausal diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY: In this study, we explored the pharmacologic actions and potential molecular mechanisms underlying EZF's action in preventing and treating osteoporosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The active components and related targets of EZF's anti-osteoporotic effects were predicted by network pharmacology, and functional enrichment analysis was also performed. We then used an osteoporosis model of ovariectomized (OVX) mice to detect the effects of EZF on osteoporosis. RESULTS: The results from network pharmacology identified a total of 10 active ingredients from EH and 13 active ingredients from FLL that might affect 65 potential therapeutic targets. GO enrichment analysis revealed that EZF affected bone tissue primarily via hormone (particularly estradiol)-related pathways and bone resorption by osteoclast differentiation. KEGG analysis demonstrated that bone-related factors such as Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Ca2, estrogen receptor1 (ESR1), androgen receptors (AR), and TNFα served as the primary targets during osteoclastic differentiation. In vivo experiments showed that the formula significantly improved the diminution in estrogen and the subsequent uterine atrophy induced by ovariectomy (P < 0.01 or 0.05), implying that the EZF exerted its actions via regulation of estradiol and the nourishing effects of the uterus in OVX mice. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and micro-CT showed that EZF significantly inhibited bone loss and improved bone micro-architecture by statistically increasing the number of bone trabeculae and decreasing the separation of bone trabeculae in OVX mice (P < 0.01 or 0.05); EZF also inhibited bone loss and enhanced bone-fracture load. Furthermore, we confirmed that EZF reduced the calcium concentrations, augmented protein and mRNA levels for Runx2 in the bone marrow, and reduced PPARγ levels. RANKL-a key downstream regulatory protein of many targets that was referred to in our results of network pharmacology as being involved in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis-was significantly diminished by EZF; it also elevated OPG content. In addition, we used monocytes of bone-marrow origin to detect the effects of the potential components of EZF on osteoclast differentiation and found that wedelolactone, oleanolic acid, echinocystic acid, luteolin, and luteolin-7-o-glucoside significantly inhibited osteoclast differentiation from monocytes induced by 25 ng/mL MCSF and 50 ng/mL RANKL (P < 0.01 or 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our present study indicated that EZF significantly inhibited the bone loss induced by OVX in mice by its regulation of estradiol combined with the nourishing effect of the uterus, and that it also attenuated bone resorption by decreasing the RANKL/OPG ratio so as to inhibit osteoclast maturation.

Efficacy of Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix Against Cartilage Degeneration in Osteoarthritis： An Exploration Based on Computer Simulation / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To screen the active components of sovereign medicinal Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix in Rongjin Niantong formula based on bioinformatics and network pharmacology and observe their effects on therapeutic targets of osteoarthritis （OA） in <italic>in vivo</italic> and <italic>in vitro</italic> animal experiments. Method:The main active components and therapeutic targets of Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform （TCMSP）， and the differentially expressed genes relevant to OA from the Gene Expression Omnibus （GEO） database for cross analysis. The effects of main active components in Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix on enriched therapeutic targets of rats with OA <italic>in vivo </italic>and <italic>in vitro</italic> were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction （Real-time PCR） and Western blot. Result:There were 20 active components for Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix against OA， with quercetin being an important one. Among the three target genes， osteopontin （OPN） and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1（PAI-1） were the key ones in the network. Gene Ontology （GO） analysis yielded 227 related terms， involving the regulation of physiological response to trauma （GO： 1903034）， negative regulation of trauma response （GO： 1903035）， etc. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes （KEGG） pathway analysis revealed 12 related pathways， involving extracellular matrix receptor interaction （hsa04512） and so on. In animal experiments， compared with the normal group， the model group exhibited increased gene and protein expression of OPN and PAI-1. Compared with the model group， the quercetin group displayed decreased gene and protein expression of OPN and PAI-1 （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. In cell experiments， the OPN and PAI-1 protein expression levels in the model group were increased as compared with those in the normal group， while the Collagen Ⅱ protein expression was decreased. The OPN and PAI-1 protein expression levels in the quercetin group and the inhibitor group were down-regulated in contrast to those in the model group， whereas the Collagen Ⅱ protein expression levels were up-regulated significantly （<italic>P<</italic>0.05）. Conclusion:Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix<italic> </italic>inhibits cartilage degeneration and exerts the preventive and therapeutic effects against OA， which is possibly due to the efficacy of its active component quercetin in down-regulating the expression of OPN and PAI-1 in chondrocytes and up-regulating the Collagen Ⅱ protein expression.

Safety and effectiveness of a Tai Chi-based cardiac rehabilitation programme for chronic coronary syndrom patients: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Preliminary evidence from clinical observations suggests that Tai Chi exercise may offer potential benefits for patients with chronic coronary syndrom (CCS). However, the advantages for CCS patients to practice Tai Chi exercise as rehabilitation have not been rigorously tested and there is a lack of consensus on its benefits. This study aims to develop an innovative Tai Chi Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (TCCRP) for CCS patients and to assess the efficacy, safety and acceptability of the programme. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: We propose to conduct a multicentre randomised controlled clinical trial comprising of 150 participants with CCS. The patients will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio into two groups. The intervention group will participate in a supervised TCCRP held three times a week for 3 months. The control group will receive supervised conventional exercise rehabilitation held three times a week for 3 months. The primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months after intervention and after an additional 3-month follow-up period. Primary outcome measures will include a score of 36-Item Short Form Survey and Chinese Perceived Stress Scale. The secondary outcome measures will include body composition, cardiopulmonary exercise test, respiratory muscle function, locomotor skills, echocardiogram, New York Heart Association classification, heart rate recovery time and laboratory examination. Other measures also include Seattle Angina Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and Berg Balance Scale. All adverse events will be recorded and analysed. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study conforms to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and relevant ethical guidelines. Ethical approval has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of Chinese People's Libration Army General Hospital (approval number: S2019-060-02). Findings from this study will be published and presented at conferences for widespread dissemination of the results. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03936504.

[Advances in synthesis of artemisinin based on plant genetic engineering].

Artemisinin is a kind of sesquiterpene lactone containing endoperoxide bridge,which is the most effective anti-malarial drug at present. However,low content of artemisinin in Artemisia annua,ranging from 0. 1%-1. 0% of dry weight,as well as the complicated extraction process have resulted in low yield and high cost of artemisinin,making it difficult to meet market demand.Based on the development of high-throughput sequencing and molecular biology,the related enzyme genes and transcription factors involved in the artemisinin metabolic pathway were cloned and identified. Metabolic engineering and synthetic biology methods to modify the original metabolic pathway of A. annua and genetic engineering in heterologous host cells have become one of the hotspots in this field. Therefore,the molecular mechanism of artemisin biosynthesis,different strategies of genetic modifications of A. annua,and the research status and application prospect of artemisinin synthesis in heterologous host cells( Nicotiana benthamiana,Physcomitrella patens) were summarized in our review,hoping to provide molecular basis and theoretical basis for breeding new varieties of A. annua with high artemisinin output.

Huo Xue Tong Luo capsule, a vasoactive herbal formula prevents progression of asymptomatic osteonecrosis of femoral head: A prospective study.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: A prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a specific vasoactive herbal formula, Huo Xue Tong Luo capsule (HXTL capsule), for the treatment of patients with asymptomatic osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH). METHODS: We evaluated a clinical trial of 55 patients (59 hips) with asymptomatic ONFH (no joint collapse) evaluated by Steinberg staging system and necrosis range classification criteria. Then, they were given HXTL capsule under specific protocol. Among them, 39 males and 16 females with an average age of 36.4 ± 10.1 years were followed up for an average of 4.38 years during treatment. The aggravation of clinical and imaging results was assessed by initial pain and joint collapse. The clinical and imaging outcomes of these patients were compared with those of a historical control group from the literature under critical inclusion criteria. RESULTS: At the latest follow-up, initial pain occurred in five of 59 (8.5%) hips of patients taking HXTL capsule compared with 31 of 81 (38.3%) controls (p < 0.001), and joint collapse occurred in 13 of 59 (22.0%) hips of patients taking HXTL capsule compared with 26 of 81 (32.1%) controls (p < 0.001). There was no association between joint collapse and multiple key factors of ONFH. Only the location of type C2 necrotic lesions (hazard ratio, 4.12; 95% confidence interval, 2.64-18.91) and the extent of large necrotic lesions (hazard ratio, 3.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.43-16.21) predicted joint collapse. CONCLUSION: As an agent formulated by vasoactive herbals, HXTL capsule with specific protocol is an effective medicine for relieving hip pain and preventing joint collapse in patients with asymptomatic ONFH. THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE: The translation potential of this prospective cohort study is that the initially officially approved clinical indication for HXTL capsule for treatment of ONFH is due to its possible effect of revascularization on angiogenesis of necrosis. It is has been now proven to be effective for a new clinical application.

Polydatin promotes the osteogenic differentiation of human bone mesenchymal stem cells by activating the BMP2-Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway.

Steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SONFH) is a refractory disease induced by glucocorticoids. Marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) differentiate into multiple bone matrix cells and have been used as cell-based therapies to treat ONFH. However, the osteogenesis of MSCs isolated from patients with SONFH is significantly decreased. Polydatin has been widely used in traditional Chinese remedies due to its multiple pharmacological actions. As shown in our previous study, Polydatin protects from oxidative stress and promotes BMSC migration. However, little is known about its role in BMSC (Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells) osteogenesis; therefore, we further investigated the effect and mechanism of Polydatin in hBMSC osteogenesis. The ability of Polydatin to promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs was determined using the MTT assay, ALP staining and the ALP activity assay. Next, qPCR and western blotting were performed to measure the levels of genes and proteins related to the osteogenesis of hBMSCs. Then, the effect of Polydatin on the nuclear translocation of ß-catenin was determined using immunofluorescence staining. Polydatin (30 µM) markedly enhanced the proliferation of hBMSCs and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Additionally, it also significantly upregulated the expression of osteogenic genes (Runx2, osteopontin, DLX5, osteocalcin, collagen type I and BMP2) and components of the Wnt signaling pathway (ß-catenin, Lef1, TCF7, c-jun, c-myc and cyclin D). These osteogenesis-potentiating effects of Polydatin were blocked by Noggin, an inhibitor of the BMP pathway, and DKK1, an inhibitor of the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway. However, DKK1 did not affect Polydatin-induced BMP2 expression. Based on our results, Polydatin promotes the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs through the BMP2-Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway.

The mechanism of iron-compensation for manganese deficiency of Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Given their involvement in catalysis, infection, and biofilm formation, Fe and Mn are essential for bacterial survival and virulence. In this study, we found that Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) could grow in the Mn-deficient medium (MDCM). Furthermore, findings showed that the Fe concentration in the bacterium increased when the Mn concentration decreased. In addition, it was noted that supplementing MDCM with Fe resulted in the recovery of bacterial growth. Quantitative proteomics using stable-isotope dimethyl labeling was performed to investigate the adaptive growth mechanism of S. pneumoniae under Mn-deficient conditions. It was found that the expression levels of 25 proteins were downregulated, whereas those of 54 proteins were upregulated in S. pneumoniae grown in MDCM. It was also noted that several of the downregulated proteins were involved in cell energy metabolism, amino acid synthesis, and reduction of oxidation products. More importantly, several ATP-binding cassette transporters related to Fe uptake, such as PiuA, PiaA, PitA, and SPD_1609, were overexpressed for increased Fe uptake from the MDCM. The results suggest that Mn deficiency disturbs multiple metabolic processes in S. pneumoniae. Furthermore, it causes a compensatory effect of Fe for Mn, which is beneficial for the survival of the bacterium in extreme environments. SIGNIFICANCE: The relationship between manganese and iron metabolism in S. pneumoniae has not been clearly revealed. In this paper, we suggest that Mn limitation disturbs multiple metabolic processes and evidently decreases the ATP level in the bacterium. In order to survive in this extreme environment, bacteria upregulated three type of Fe ion transporters PiuABC (heme), PiaABC (ferrichrome) and PitABC (Fe3+) to uptake enough Fe ions to response to Mn deficiency. Therefore, this study reveals a bacterial mechanism of Fe compensation for Mn, and provides new insight for investigating the relativeness of Fe and Mn metabolism of bacteria.

Boron Affects the Development of the Kidney Through Modulation of Apoptosis, Antioxidant Capacity, and Nrf2 Pathway in the African Ostrich Chicks.

The nuclear-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway is the most important mechanism in antioxidant capacity, which regulates the cell's redox homeostasis. In addition, Nrf2 pathway also can inhibit cell apoptosis. The mechanism of boron actions on various organs is well documented. But, it is not known whether boron can also regulate the Nrf2 pathway in the kidneys. Therefore, in this research, the actions of boron on the kidneys of ostrich chicks, especially the antioxidant effects, have been studied. The ostrich chicks were divided into six groups and supplemented with boric acid (BA) (source of boron) in the drinking water (0, 40, 80, 160, 320, 640 mg respectively) to examine apoptotic, antioxidant, biochemical, and histochemical alterations induced by boron administration in the ostrich chick's kidney. The cellular apoptosis was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) assay. The relative antioxidant enzymes (T-AOC, MDA, GSH-Px, SOD, GR, CAT) and biochemical indices (ALT, AST, ALP, CK, LDH, BUN, CREA, UA) in the kidney were determined by spectrophotometric method. The expression of three important genes in the antioxidant pathway (Nrf2, HO-1, GCLc) was measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), and the localization of key regulator Nrf2 was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) method. Western blotting was also performed to further validate our results. Our results revealed that low doses of boron (up to 160 mg) had positive effect, while high doses (especially 640 mg) caused negative effect on the development of the kidney. The cellular apoptosis was in a biphasic manner by altering the boron quantities. The low doses regulate the oxidative and enzyme activity in the kidney. The IHC and western blot showed maximum localization of Nrf2 in 80 mg/L BA dose group. Furthermore, supplementation of boron at low doses upregulated the expression of genes involved in the antioxidant pathway. Taken together, the study demonstrated that low levels of boron (up to 160 mg) inhibited the cell apoptosis, regulate the enzyme activity, and improved the antioxidant system, thus may encourage the development of the ostrich chick's kidney, while a high amount of boron especially 640 mg/L promoted cell apoptosis and reduced the antioxidant capacity, thus caused negative effect to the ostrich chick's kidney.

Clinical Study on Acupuncture at Lower He-Sea Point for Promoting Functional Recovery after Stomach Cancer Surgery / 上海针灸杂志

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at lower He-Sea point in promoting functional recovery after stomach cancer surgery.Methods Sixty patients who had undergone stomach cancer surgery were randomly allocated to treatment and control groups by using random number table method according to registration order, 30 cases each. The control group received general treatment and the treatment group, acupuncture in addition. Post-treatment gastric tube removal time, borborygmus recovery time and first fart time, the average hospitalization days, and the total cost were observed and the Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (QLQ-C30) score was recorded in the two groups of patients. Post-treatment incidence of adverse reactions, peripheral white blood cell (WBC) counts, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and plateletcrits (PCT) were compared between the two groups.Results There were statistically significant differences in post-treatment gastric tube removal time, borborygmus recovery time, first fart time and hospitalization days, and the total hospitalization expenses between the two groups of patients (P<0.01). There were also statistically significant differences in post-treatment incidences of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and abdominal distension between the two groups (P<0.05). Post-treatment QLQ-C30 score was (38.35±15.25) in treatment group and (76.23±10.67) in the control group; there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.01). There were statistically significant differences in WBC and CRP levels at the end of operation and 24 hrs after treatment between the two groups (P<0.01,P<0.05). Conclusions Acupuncture can be used for early treatment after stomach cancer surgery. It can promote the recovery of gastrointestinal function and improve the overall quality of life in the patients.

Clinical Study on Acupuncture at Lower He-Sea Point for Promoting Functional Recovery after Stomach Cancer Surgery / 上海针灸杂志

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at lower He-Sea point in promoting functional recovery after stomach cancer surgery.Methods Sixty patients who had undergone stomach cancer surgery were randomly allocated to treatment and control groups by using random number table method according to registration order, 30 cases each. The control group received general treatment and the treatment group, acupuncture in addition. Post-treatment gastric tube removal time, borborygmus recovery time and first fart time, the average hospitalization days, and the total cost were observed and the Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (QLQ-C30) score was recorded in the two groups of patients. Post-treatment incidence of adverse reactions, peripheral white blood cell (WBC) counts, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and plateletcrits (PCT) were compared between the two groups.Results There were statistically significant differences in post-treatment gastric tube removal time, borborygmus recovery time, first fart time and hospitalization days, and the total hospitalization expenses between the two groups of patients (P<0.01). There were also statistically significant differences in post-treatment incidences of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and abdominal distension between the two groups (P<0.05). Post-treatment QLQ-C30 score was (38.35±15.25) in treatment group and (76.23±10.67) in the control group; there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.01). There were statistically significant differences in WBC and CRP levels at the end of operation and 24 hrs after treatment between the two groups (P<0.01,P<0.05). Conclusions Acupuncture can be used for early treatment after stomach cancer surgery. It can promote the recovery of gastrointestinal function and improve the overall quality of life in the patients.

Effect of Acupuncture of She Medicine on Cerebral Hemodynamics in Migraine Patients / 上海针灸杂志

Objective To evaluate the effect of acupuncture therapy of She medicine on cerebral hemodynamics in migraine patients, and to further verify its therapeutic efficacy and preliminarily reveal the action mechanism in treating migraine. Method 120 Eligible subjects were randomized into two groups. The treatment group was intervened by acupuncture of She medicine, while the control group was intervened by Western medication, 10 d as a treatment course, for 2 courses in total at a 2-day interval. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) was adopted to observe the average blood flow velocity of cerebral arteries before and after the treatment. Result The total effective rate was 82.8% in the treatment group versus 71.4% in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05) by rank-sum test. Before the treatment, the abnormity rate of cerebral artery blood flow was 62.8% in the treatment group versus 61.9% in the control group, and the between-group difference was statistically insignificant (P>0.05), indicating the comparability; after the treatment, the abnormity rate of cerebral artery blood flow was 25.9% in the treatment group versus 35.3% in the control group, and the between-group was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion Acupuncture of She medicine is effective in treating migraine, and it can significantly improve the cerebral hemodynamics.

Regional variations of basic public health services implementation in Zhejiang Province based on the Gini coefficient / 预防医学

Objective To explore regional variations of basic public health services implementation in Zhejiang Province at prefectural,county and township level,respectively.To find key problems which obstacle the equalization of basic public health services in Zhejiang Province.Methods Descriptive analysis was made on surveillance data of basic public health services in Zhejiang Province,2014.Gini coefficient of key indicators was calculated at prefectural,county and township level,respectively.To the key indicator with higher Gini coefficient,Lorenz curve was plotted and Gini coefficient of each prefectural-level city was calculated.Results An increasing tendency from prefectural to township level was showed in Gini coefficient of all twenty-five analyzed indicators.The Gini coefficient at township level was 0.497 for the average financial fund per migrant person,and the highest prefectural -level cities were Taizhou (0.709 ),Lishui (0.838 ), Quzhou(0.918).The Gini coefficient at township level of other indicators were 0.314 and 0.235 for the children and elderly health management of traditional Chinese medicine,and lower than 0.05 for maternal &children health care, immunization,and coverage rate of electronic health record,and between 0.066 to 0.179 for health management of chronic disease and severe mental illness patients.Conclusion Average financial fund per migrant person and health management of traditional Chinese medicine are current major problems which obstacle the equalization of basic public health services in Zhejiang Province.

Combination treatment with whole body vibration and a kidney-tonifying herbal Fufang prevent osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the ability of whole body vibration (WBV) with the kidney-tonifying herbal Fufang (Bushen Zhuanggu Granules, BZG) to prevent osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. METHODS: Fifty 6-month-old female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups: sham-operated (SHAM), ovariectomized (OVX), OVX with WBV (OVX + WBV), OVX with BZG (OVX + BZG), OVX with both WBV and BZG (OVX + WBV + BZG). The SHAM group received normal saline. After 12 weeks of treatment, the rats were killed, their serum concentrations of osteopontin (OPN), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand RANKL and bone turnover markers assayed and bone mineral density (BMD), histomorphometry and bone strength evaluated. RESULTS: Concentrations of OPN were significantly lower in the SHAM, OVX + WBV and OVX + WBV + BZG groups at 12 weeks, whereas concentrations of RANKL had decreased significantly in the SHAM, OVX + WBV, OVX + BZG and OVX + WBV + BZG groups. In the OVX + WBV, OVX + BZG and OVX + WBV + BZG groups the amount of bone turnover had been significantly antagonized. Compared with OVX group, BMD, % trabecular area (Tb.Ar), number of trabeculae (Tb.N) and assessed biomechanical variables were higher in OVX+WBV group, whereas and BMD, %Tb.Ar, Tb.N, maximal load and yield load were higher in the OVX + BZG group. All tested indices were significantly lower in the OVX + WBV and OVX + BZG groups than in the OVX + WBV + BZG group. CONCLUSION: Either WBV or BZG alone prevents OVX-induced bone loss. However, BZG enhances the effect of WBV by further enhancing BMD, bone architecture and strength.

Effects of Naoxintong on atherosclerosis and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in atherosclerotic rabbit / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>BACKGROUND</b>High levels of nitric oxide (NO) produced by inducible NO synthase (iNOS) have been associated with atherosclerosis processes. Naoxintong is a traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease. The aim of the present study was to detect and quantify changes of iNOS mRNA and NO levels in the vessel wall after the administration of Naoxintong in an atherosclerotic rabbit model.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Forty New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8). Rabbits were fed a standard diet (group A), an atherogenic diet consisting of 79% standard feed + 1% cholesterol + 5% lard + 15% egg yolk powder (group B), an atherogenic diet with Naoxintong 0.25 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) (group C), an atherogenic diet with Naoxintong 0.5 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) (group D), or atherogenic diet with Naoxintong 1.0 mg×kg(-1)×d(-1) (group E) for 12 weeks.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Supplemented administration of Naoxintong led to a down-regulation of cholesterol (CHOL) (P < 0.001) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (P < 0.001). The trend became more notable as the dose of Naoxintong increased; group C vs. group B (CHOL, P = 0.568; LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), P = 0.119), group D vs. group B (CHOL, P = 0.264; LDL-C, P = 0.027), group E vs. group B (CHOL, P = 0.028; LDL-C, P = 0.002). Atherosclerotic lesions in aorta were reduced in Naoxintong groups (groups C, D, E) compared to group B. Group B had higher iNOS mRNA (P = 0.001) and NO level (P < 0.001) than group A. Compared with the atherogenic diet fed-rabbits, Naoxintong supplements decreased the expression of iNOS mRNA (P < 0.001) and the NO level (P < 0.001) in the vessel wall. Groups given a higher Naoxintong dose exhibited greater benefits. iNOS mRNA and NO levels seemed to be reduced in group C, although the difference did not quite reach statistical significance (iNOS mRNA, P = 0.130; NO, P = 0.038). iNOS mRNA and NO levels significantly decreased in group D (iNOS mRNA, P = 0.019; NO, P = 0.018) and group E (iNOS mRNA, P = 0.004; NO, P < 0.001).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Naoxintong has beneficial effects on atherosclerosis treatment by reducing expression of iNOS mRNA and the NO level in the vessel wall.</p>

[Effects of irrigating solution of Sihuang on morphology and function of nasal mucosa following surgery for chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of the irrigating solution of Sihuang (ISSH) given after endoscopic surgery for chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps. METHODS: ISSH was used to irrigate the operated sinus cavity for 4 weeks in 109 patients with chronic sinusitis and/or polyps treated by endoscopic surgery, and 0.9%; normal saline (NS) was given in the same manner in another 109 patients receiving ISSH for similar problems, and the effects of the irrigating solutions was compared. Before and 3 months after the surgery, respectively, 32 patients with sinusitis were selected from each group for saccharin test. The mucosa in the ostiomeatal complex region was examined by electron microscopy in 6 patients before, two weeks and one month after surgery, respectively. RESULTS: The total effective rate was not significantly different between the two groups, but the postoperative morphological and functional recovery of the nasal mucosa occurred earlier in ISSH than in NS group (P<0.05). The level of SIgA was similar between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05), whereas after ISSH treatment, the SIgA level was significantly elevated in the treated group. Mucociliary transport rate was similar between ISSH and NS groups before the surgery (3.14+/-1.05 mm/min vs 3.31+/-1.09 mm/min, P>0.05), but 3 month after the surgery, the mucociliary transport rate increased to 6.09+/-2.63 mm/min in ISSH group and 5.04+/-1.22 mm/min in NS group, showing significant difference between them. Under electron microscope, the cilia of the epithelial cells were found exfoliated preoperatively but regularly arranged after the surgery, presenting the "9+2" architecture of the microtubule. CONCLUSION: ISSH used after operation can improve the therapeutic effect of endoscopic surgery for chronic sinusitis and/or nasal polyps.