Characteristic of pancreatic involvement in melioidosis: Case report and literature review.

Background: Intra-abdominal abscesses are a frequent manifestations of melioidosis whereas pancreas is barely affected by this condition. Herein, by delving into the clinical manifestations, diagnostic processes, and the ultimate clinical outcome, we report a case of an unusual presentation of pancreatic melioidosis in a Chinese patient, aiming to shed light on a diagnosis that is not commonly associated with the pancreas. Case presentation: The patient, a 32-year-old male farmer, suffered from persistent burning pain in his upper abdomen, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever and other symptoms, presented to the clinic. His body temperature spiked to 38.5 °C without apparent reason for this fever. A thorough examination, including the blood culture and the imaging examination, led to a diagnosis of pancreatic melioidosis. The patient was promptly treated with intravenous meropenem and ceftazidime. As a consequence, his symptoms eased and discharged in stable condition. The patient continued his treatment with oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole) for three months to control the infection. Following 6 months of regular follow-up, the patient fully recovered. Conclusions: In tropical regions such as Hainan, it is crucial to consider atypical infection like B. pseudomallei in the differential diagnosis, even when they present in atypical locations such as a pancreatic pseudocyst. Detecting pancreatic involvement in melioidosis relies heavily on sensitive bacterial culture and imaging examination. This retrospective study of patients' infection diagnosis aims to shed light on the clinical treatment, and prognosis associated with pancreatic melioidosis, thereby raising awareness about the risk of pancreatic affection in melioidosis cases.

Whole-process individualized pharmaceutical care for a case of melioidosis sepsis / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To provide reference for the adjustment of antibiotic treatment regimens， identification of adverse reactions， and individualized pharmaceutical care for melioidosis sepsis （MS）. METHODS Clinical pharmacists participated in the intensive and eradicating therapeutic processes for an MS patient by using blood concentration and gene detection. Based on the literature， antibiotic treatment regimens of MS were adjusted by determining the blood concentrations of β-lactam and trimethoprim/ sulfamethoxazole （TMP/SMZ） and calculating PK/PD parameters. The causes of adverse drug reactions were analyzed and addressed by detecting drug-related gene polymorphisms through high-throughput sequencing. RESULTS Clinical pharmacists used blood concentration and genetic testing methods to propose adjustments to imipenem-cilastatin sodium dosage and analyze the causes of various adverse drug reactions. PK/PD targets were calculated by measuring the blood concentrations of β-lactam and TMP/SMZ. Clinical pharmacists explained to clinical doctors the compliance status of patients with melioidosis in sepsis and non- sepsis stages through reviewing guidelines and literature； the results of blood concentration and genetic test were used to analyze the correlation of neurotoxicity of MS patients with B14） IMP cmin， and it was found that nephrotoxicity was not related to the cmax of TMP/SMZ， but to the patient’s water intake. After whole-process antibiotic treatment， the patient’s condition improved and was discharged， and the adverse reactions were effectively treated. CONCLUSIONS Clinical pharmacists use blood concentration and genetic tests to assist clinicians in formulating MS treatment regimens， and provide whole-course pharmaceutical care for a MS patient. This method has improved the safety and effectiveness of clinical drug therapy.

[Huangdi Anxiao Capsules-containing serum protects cell model from cognitive dysfunction in diabetes via inhibiting NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis].

This study aims to investigate the effects and the molecular mechanism of Huangdi Anxiao Capsules(HDAX)-containing serum in protecting the rat adrenal pheochromocytoma(PC12) cells from diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction induced by high glucose and whether the mechanism is related to the regulation of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3)-mediated pyroptosis. The PC12 cell model of diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction induced by high glucose was established and mcc950 was used to inhibit NLRP3. PC12 cells were randomized into control, model, HDAX-containing serum, mcc950, and HDAX-containing serum+mcc950 groups. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium(MTT) assay was employed to determine the viability, and Hoechst 33258/PI staining to detect pyroptosis of PC12 cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to measure the levels of interleukin-1 beta(IL-1ß) and IL-18. Western blot was employed to determine the protein levels of postsynaptic density protein 95(PSD-95), NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD(ASC), gasdermin D(GSDMD), GSDMD-N, and cleaved cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1(caspase-1), and RT-PCR to determine the mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD, and caspase-1. The immunofluorescence assay was adopted to measure the levels and distribution of NLRP3 and GSDMD-N in PC12 cells. Compared with the control group, the model group showed decreased cell proliferation, increased PI positive rate, down-regulated protein level of PSD-95, up-regulated protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD-N, GSDMD, and cleaved caspase-1, up-regulated mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD, and caspase-1, and elevated levels of IL-1ß and IL-18. Compared with the model group, HDAX-containing serum, mcc950, and the combination of them improved cell survival rate and morphology, decreased the PI positive rate, down-regulated the protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD-N, GSDMD, and cleaved caspase-1 and the mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD, and caspase-1, and promoted the secretion of IL-1ß and IL-18. The findings demonstrated that HDAX-containing serum can inhibit the pyroptosis-mediated by NLRP3 and protect PC12 cells from the cognitive dysfunction induced by high glucose.

Immunisation with the glycolytic enzyme enolase inhibits dissemination of Treponema pallidum in C57BL/6 mice.

Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum), an obligate extracellular bacterium, is the causative agent of sexually transmitted bacterial diseases. In this study, the glycolytic enzyme enolase (Tp Eno) of T. pallidum were injected intramuscularly into C57BL/6 mice, resulting in higher levels of specific anti-Tp Eno antibodies and Tp Eno-specific splenocyte proliferation than those in the mice immunized with recombinant protein Tp Eno. Cytokine (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) analysis of splenocytes showed that the Tp Eno could slightly trigger the Th1-biased immune response. Furthermore, immunization of mice with Tp Eno elicited a significant production of IFN-γ by CD4+ T-cells in the spleen. Subsequently, mice were inoculated intradermally (between the scapulae), intraperitoneally, intrarectally and via the corpora cavernosa with 2.5 × 106 organisms per site (1 × 107 total organisms). The bacterial organ burden detected in the blood, spleen, liver, testes or brain of immunized mice suggested that Tp Eno enhances protective immunity to inhibit T. pallidum colonization in distal tissues. Therefore, Tp Eno vaccination enhances Tp Eno-specific immunogenicity and provides protection against T. pallidum dissemination.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells via modulating nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a major bioactive compound in tea polyphenol extract. After ingestion, EGCG reaches the intestine and may commence anti-inflammation in the intestinal organ. Thus, in this paper, the anti-inflammatory effect of EGCG was studied using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells. LPS induction instigated morphological deformation extensively which was normalized by EGCG. In LPS-induced macrophage cells, EGCG was found to lower cellular nitric oxide (32% of LPS group) and intercellular ROS level (45.4% of LPS group). It also suppressed the expression of IL-1ß (LPS 132.6 ± 14.6, EGCG 10.67 ± 3.65), IL-6 (LPS 2994.44 ± 178.5, EGCG 408.33 ± 52.34), TNF-α (LPS 27.11 ± 2.84, EGCG 1.22 ± 0.03), and iNOS (LPS 40.45 ± 11.17, EGCG 10.24 ± 0.89). The GO function analysis identified that these differential genes involved 24 biological processes, 18 molecular functions, and 19 cellular component-related processes. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that LPS significantly affects NF-κB, TNF, and TLR signaling pathways. Western blotting revealed that EGCG diminished P-IκB/IκB ratio by 75% and p-p65/p65 by 50% compared to the LPS group. Finally, Arg-1 and CD-206 mRNA expression were determined by RT-PCR, which was consistent with the RNA-Seq result. These findings indicate that EGCG exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing NO and ROS production, suppressing TLR4 protein expression, and inhibiting IκB and p65 phosphorylation.

0D hybrid indium halide as a highly efficient X-ray scintillation and ultra-sensitive fluorescent probe.

Halide perovskite nanocrystal (PNC) of 3D CsPbX3 as a scintillator has aroused intensive attention with advanced applications in radiation detection and X-ray imaging. However, the low light yield and serious toxicity of Pb2+ severely hinder advanced optoelectronic applications. To reduce these fatal shortcomings, a family of new environmentally friendly 0D hybrid lead-free indium halides of [DADPA]InX6·H2O (DADPA = 3,3'-diaminodipropylamine; X = Cl and Br) was prepared. Upon UV excitation, these halides display strong broadband yellow-orange light emissions, and the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) can be optimized up to near unity through the Sb3+-doping strategy. Significantly, high PLQY, negligible self-absorption and low attenuation ability toward X-ray render extraordinary scintillation performance with a high light yield of 51 875 photons MeV-1 and ultralow detection limit of 98.3 nGyair s-1, which is far superior to typical 3D PNC scintillators. Additionally, the ultra-high spatial resolution of 25.15 lp mm-1, negligible afterglow time (2.75 ms) and robust radiant stability demonstrates excellent X-ray imaging performance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on X-ray scintillation based on 0D indium halide materials.

Epidemiological survey of warts in Chinese military recruits: A cross-sectional and follow-up study.

Background: Warts are very common in military personnel, either at war or during peace times. However, little is known about the prevalence and natural course of warts in military recruits in China. Objective: To investigate the prevalence and natural course of warts in Chinese military recruits. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the head, face, neck, hands, and feet of 3093 Chinese military recruits aged 16-25 years in Shanghai were examined for the presence of warts upon enlistment medical examinations. Questionnaires were distributed to collect the general information of the participants before the survey. All the patients were followed up by telephone interview for 11-20 months. Results: The prevalence rate of warts in Chinese military recruits was 2.49%. The diagnosis of most cases was common and plantar warts, which were usually less than 1 cm in diameter and with mild discomfort. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that smoking and sharing personal items with others were risk factors. Coming from southern China was a protective factor. Over 2/3 of patients recovered within 1 year and the type, number, and size of warts and treatment choice did not predict resolution.Study limitations and Conclusions This study demonstrated that warts had a relative lower morbidity and a higher spontaneous resolution rate in Chinese military recruits. The telephone interviews following the initial survey and the limitations of a cross-sectional study were the main drawbacks.

Changes of photopic negative response of multifocal electroretinogram after treatment with Aflibercept in patients with diabetic macular edema / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM:To observe the changes of photopic negative response(PhNR)of multifocal electroretinogram(mf-ERG)in patients with diabetic macular edema(DME)before and after treatment with Aflibercept.METHODS: A total of 37 patients(37 eyes)with DME who visited the Aier Eye Hospital of Wuhan University(Wuhan Aier Eye Hospital)from May 2019 to June 2022, and 0.05 mL of aflibercept was injected per month for consecutive 3mo were included in this retrospective cohort study. Another 20 cases(20 eyes)with normal physical examination to exclude related eye diseases were selected as the control group. The PhNR amplitude of mf-ERG, best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA; LogMAR), central retinal thickness(CRT), capillary plexus in macular area and vessel density(CPVD)of the participants between the two groups were compared before and after treatment.RESULTS: The PhNR amplitude of mf-ERG in DME patients before treatment(201.69±80.92nV)was significantly lower than that in the normal control group(398.87±77.92nV; P<0.01), and the average PhNR amplitude of mf-ERG in DME patients at 6mo after treatment was significantly higher than that before treatment(P=0.036), but it was still significantly lower than the normal control group at 6mo after treatment(P=0.031). In addition, the BCVA(LogMAR)of DME patients increased from 0.64±1.33 to 0.37±1.39(P=0.021)at 6mo after treatment, and CPVD significantly increased compared to that before treatment(P=0.029). Meanwhile, the PhNR amplitude of mf-ERG in DME patients at 6mo after treatment was positively correlated with CPVD at 6mo after treatment(r=0.448, P=0.043), and negatively correlated with BCVA(LogMAR)and CRT(r=-0.647, P=0.011; r=-0.337, P=0.032).CONCLUSION: The PhNR amplitude of mf-ERG in DME patients increased significantly after receiving aflibercept, and it can be used to observe and evaluate the functional changes of retinal ganglion cells in DME patients.

The effects of dynamic instability training on the postural control, balance and walking of stroke survivors / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To observe any effect of dynamic motor instability training on the balance and postural control of stroke survivors.Methods:Forty stroke survivors with poor balance were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, each of 20. In addition to routine rehabilitation, the observation group was given 20 minutes of dynamic motor instability training, 5 days a week for 8 weeks, while the control group underwent routine rehabilitation for the same length of time. Before and after the intervention, surface electromyogram of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and erector spinae were recorded during perturbation. Activation time and the intensity of the anticipatory and complementary postural adjustments (APAs and CPAs) were also observed. Balance and lower limb motor functioning were assessed using the Berg balance scale (BBS), the Fugl-Meyer lower extremity assessment (FMA-LE), and GaitWatch analysis.Results:After the treatment the average activation time of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris in the affected side and those of the biceps femoris [(-84.31±5.74)s] and erector spinae in the intact side in APAs were all significantly shorter in the observation group than in the control group, while the average activation intensity of the rectus femoris and erector spinae was significantly greater. There was no significant difference in the activation intensity of each muscle group in CPAs after the treatment. After the intervention the average BBS score, FMA-LE score, stride length and walking speed of the observation group all were significantly better than the control group′s averages.Conclusions:Supplementing traditional rehabilitation training with dynamic motor instability training can further improve the posture control of stroke survivors and promote recovery of their balance and walking ability.

Development of radiolabeled tetramer that targeting fibroblast activation protein and theranostic research in tumor xenografts / 中华核医学与分子影像杂志

Objective:To develop a tetramer probe targeting fibroblast activation protein (FAP), named 1, 4, 7, 10-tetraazacyclododecane-1, 4, 7, 10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA)-4P(FAP inhibitor (FAPI)) 4, evaluate its biodistribution and PET image in FAP-positive-tumor bearing nude mice, and explore its feasibility as a novel radio-regent for treatment of FAP-positive tumor. Methods:FAP tetramer probe was constructed on the FAPI-46 motif with four mini-polyethylene glycol (PEG)(PEG 3) spacers between the four FAPI motifs, denoted as 4P(FAPI) 4. DOTA was used as the chelator for radiolabeling with 68Ga and 177Lu. The FAP binding characteristics were test by in vitro cell competitive binding experiment. Small-animal PET, in vivo biodistribution, and radionuclide targeting therapy were performed in HT-1080-FAP tumor bearing nude mice ( n=39). Independent-sample t test was performed to analyze tumor uptake data, and two-factor repeated measures analysis of variance was utilized to compare tumor volume data in radioactive isotope therapy. Results:Cell experiment showed that FAPI-tetramer and FAPI-monomer had similar half maximal inhibitory concentration values (3.29 and 2.15 nmol/L). 68Ga/ 177Lu radiolabeled FAPI-tetramer had better tumor uptake and retention than FAPI-monomer in small-animal PET and in vivo biodistribution experiment, with the tumor uptake for 177Lu-DOTA-4P(FAPI) 4 and 177Lu-FAPI-46 at 48 h of (18.72±1.32) vs (2.72±1.20) percentage activity of injection dose per gram of tissue (%ID/g) ( t=15.55, P<0.001). 177Lu-DOTA-4P(FAPI) 4 group showed best anti-tumor efficacy compared with 177Lu-FAPI-46 and control group in radionuclide targeting therapy. On the 2nd day after the start of treatment, the tumor volume in the tetramer treatment group was significantly smaller than that in the control group (mean difference 67.19 mm 3, P=0.049); on the 14th day after the start of treatment, the tumor volume in the tetramer treatment group was significantly smaller than that in the monomer treatment group (mean difference 414.33 mm 3, P=0.005). Conclusion:FAPI-tetramer can improve tumor uptake and retention ability compared with FAPI-46, and 177Lu-DOTA-4P(FAPI) 4 can be a promising radio-agent for FAP-positive tumor therapy.

Comparison of 68Ga-FAPI and 18F-FDG PET/CT for the diagnosis of primary and metastatic gastric signet-ring cell carcinoma / 中华核医学与分子影像杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical utility of 68Ga-labeled fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI) PET/CT in the detection of primary and metastatic gastric signet-ring cell carcinoma (GSRCC) and compared the results with those of 18F-FDG PET/CT. Methods:A total of 21 patients (10 males, 11 females, average age 52 years) with primary and metastatic GSRCC who underwent 68Ga-FAPI and 18F-FDG PET/CT at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University from June 2020 to May 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Pathological results of surgery and (or) biopsy were used as the " gold standard" for final diagnosis. In cases whose surgery or tissue biopsies were not available, clinical and radiographic follow-up results were used as the reference standards. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the SUV max of 18F-FDG and 68Ga-FAPI. McNemar χ2 test was used to compare the detection rate between 18F-FDG and 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT. Results:68Ga-FAPI PET/CT showed higher SUV max than 18F-FDG in primary tumors (5.3(2.4, 15.7) vs 2.4(1.8, 2.5); z=2.31, P=0.021), local recurrences (7.8(6.0, 8.9) vs 2.4(1.9, 3.4); z=2.20, P=0.028), lymph nodes metastases (7.7(4.5, 12.2) vs 2.4(1.9, 3.6); z=6.01, P<0.001) and bone/visceral metastases (6.7(5.3, 11.1) vs 2.4(2.0, 3.4); z=11.36, P<0.001). Regarding diagnostic accuracy, 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT showed higher sensitivities than 18F-FDG for primary tumors (7/9 vs 2/9; χ2=3.20, P=0.063) and local recurrences (7/7 vs 2/7; χ2=3.20, P=0.063). It also demonstrated higher lesion detection rates than 18F-FDG for suspicious lymph node metastases (86%(65/76) vs 32%(24/76); χ2=31.37, P<0.001) and bone/visceral metastases (99%(184/185) vs 39%(73/185); χ2=107.08, P<0.001). Conclusions:68Ga-FAPI PET/CT showed higher tumor uptake and lesion detection rate than 18F-FDG in the primary and metastatic GSRCC. 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT demonstrates good diagnostic performance for tumor detection, staging, and restaging of GSRCC, which is helpful to further guide clinical treatment strategy.

Effects of Zishen Huoxue Prescription on OGD/R-induced mitophagy in hippocampal neurons / 中国药理学通报

Aim To explore the protective effect of Zishen Huoxue Prescription on OGD/R-induced primary hippocampal neuron damage in rats and the possible mechanism. Methods After the isolated primary hippocampal neurons were identified by immunofluorescence, OGD/R induced neuronal damage, and the changes of autophagic flux at different re-oxygenation time were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. After OGD/R-induced primary hippocampal neurons were intervened with serum containing Zishen Huoxue Prescription, cell viability was detected by CCK-8, cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, autophagosomes were detected by transmission electron microscopy, and autophagy-related protein expressions were detected by Western blot. Results 10% Zishen Huoxue Prescription-containing serum could significantly improve cell viability and reduce the proportion of cell apoptosis, increase the number of autophagosomes in neurons, and up-regulate the expression of autophagy-related protein PINK1, Parkin, and pATG16L1. Conclusions Zishen Huoxue Prescription can effectively resist OGD/R-induced apoptosis of primary hippocampal neurons in rats, and its effect may be related to the regulation of PINK1-Parkin pathway to promote mitophagy.

Exploring the common mechanism of Yindan Xinnaotong soft capsule in the treatment of stroke and coronary heart disease through HIF1α-MMP9-mediated HIF1α signaling pathway / 药学学报

Coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke are the most well-known cardiovascular diseases, which share many common pathological basis. Yindan Xinnaotong soft capsule (YDXNT) is a commonly used Chinese patent medicine in the treatment of stroke and CHD. However, its action of mechanism of co-treatment for stroke and CHD is still unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the common mechanism of YDXNT in co-treatment of CHD and stroke using network pharmacology, experimental verification and molecular docking. An integrated literature mining and databases of IPA, ETCM, HERB, Swiss Target Prediction, OMIM and GeneCards were used to screen and predict active ingredients and potential targets of YDXNT in co-treatment of CHD and stroke. The protein-protein interaction network, GO analysis and pathway analysis were analyzed by IPA software. The effect of YDXNT on core targets was verified by immunofluorescence. UPLC-QTOF/MS and molecular docking were used to screen and predict the main active constituents of YDXNT and their interactions with core targets. A total of 151 potential targets are predicted for YDXNT in co-treatment of CHD and stroke. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF1α)-matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9)-mediated HIF1α signaling pathway serves as one of the common mechanisms. YDXNT could reduce the increase of mitochondrial fluorescence intensity and the protein expression of HIF1α and MMP9 in HL-1 and HA induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) in a dose-dependent manner. Baicalin may be the material basis for treating stroke and CHD with YDXNT. In conclusion, the HIF1α signaling pathway is one of the common key mechanisms of YDXNT in the co-treatment of stroke and CHD. The study provides support and basis for the in-depth scientific connotation of the traditional Chinese medicine theory of "same treatment to different diseases".

Circular RNA circRSF1 binds to HuR to promote radiation-induced inflammatory phenotype in hepatic stellate cells / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate whether circular RNA circRSF1 regulates radiation-induced inflammatory phenotype of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) by binding to HuR protein and repressing its function.@*METHODS@#Human HSC cell line LX2 with HuR overexpression or knockdown was exposed to 8 Gy X-ray irradiation, and the changes in the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) were detected by qRT-PCR. The expressions of IκBα and phosphorylation of NF-κB were detected with Western blotting. The binding of circRSF1 to HuR was verified by RNA pull-down assay and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP). The expressions of inflammatory factors, IκBα and the phosphorylation of NF-κB were detected after modifying the interaction between circRSF1 and HuR.@*RESULTS@#Knockdown of HuR significantly up- regulated the expressions of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, decreased IκBα expression and promoted NF-κB phosphorylation in irradiated LX2 cells, whereas overexpression of HuR produced the opposite changes (P < 0.05). Overexpression or knockdown of circRSF1 did not significantly affect the expression of HuR. RNA pull-down and RIP experiments confirmed the binding between circRSF1 and HuR. Overexpression of circRSF1 significantly reduced the binding of HuR to IκBα and down-regulated the expression of IκBα (P < 0.05). Overexpression of circRSF1 combined with HuR overexpression partially reversed the up-regulation of the inflammatory factors, down-regulated IκBα expression and increased phosphorylation of NFκB in LX2 cells, while the opposite effects were observed in cells with knockdown of both circRSF1 and HuR (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#circRSF1 reduces IκBα expression by binding to HuR to promote the activation of NF-κB pathway, thereby enhancing radiation- induced inflammatory phenotype of HSCs.

Slicing specifications in general rule of processing in Chinese Pharmacopoeia from slicing development of Chinese materia medica processed product and thinking and suggestion on slicing techniques / 中国中药杂志

Slicing is critical in the processing of Chinese materia medica(CMM) processed product and the specification(thickness) is closely related to the quality of the decoction. On the basis of clarifying the concept and evolution of slicing of CMM processed product by reviewing the Chinese herbal classics of the past dynasties and general rules of local processing standards, this study discussed the development history of slicing specifications in general rules of Chinese Pharmacopoeia(2020 edition), analyzed the current situation and key problems, and proposed the thinking and suggestion on promoting the sound development of slicing of CMM processed product. Since 2000, the slicing thickness of CMM processed product in the general rules of local CMM processed product processing specifications newly revised and issued by 27 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities has been consistent with that in the general rules of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(2020 edition). The standard that the thickness of extremely thin pieces is less than 0.5 mm is rarely retained, and the pieces in 0.5-1 mm thickness have not been found on the market, which is consistent with the provisions of the general rules of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. This study can provide a historical and modern basis for the rationality of slicing of CMM processed product.

Comparison on volatile components between Artemisiae Verlotori Folium and Artemisiae Argyi Folium based on GC-MS and chemometrics / 中国中药杂志

Artemisiae Argyi Folium is commonly used in clinical practice. Artemisiae Verlotori Folium, the dried leaves of Artemisia verlotorum, is often used as a folk substitute for Artemisiae Argyi Folium in Lingnan area. In this study, gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry(GC-MS) was used to detect the volatile oil components of 27 samples of Artemisiae Verlotori Folium and 13 samples of Artemisiae Argyi Folium, and the volatile components were compared between the two species. The internal standard method was combined with multi-reaction monitoring mode(MRM) to determine the content of six major volatile components. Hierarchical clustering analysis(HCA) and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis(OPLS-DA) were carried out for the content data. The results showed that the Artemisiae Argyi Folium samples had higher content and more abundant volatile oils than the Artemisiae Verlotori Folium samples. Artemisiae Argyi Folium mainly had the components with lower boiling points, while Artemisiae Verlotori Folium mainly had the components with higher boiling points. Terpenoids were the main volatile components in Artemisiae Verlotori Folium(mainly sesquiterpenoids) and Artemisiae Argyi Folium(monoterpenoids). In addition, Artemisiae Argyi Folium had higher content of oxygen-containing derivatives than Artemisiae Verlotori Folium. Furthermore, the stoichiometric analysis showed that the two species could be distinguished by both HCA and OPLS-DA, indicating that the volatile components of the two were significantly different. This study can provide a scientific basis for the quality evaluation and data support for the local rational application of Artemisiae Verlotori Folium in Lingnan.

Textual research on Bungarus Parvus / 中国中药杂志

Bungarus Parvus, a precious animal Chinese medicinal material used in clinical practice, is believed to be first recorded in Ying Pian Xin Can published in 1936. This study was carried out to analyze the names, geographical distribution, morphological characteristics, ecological habits, poisonousness, and medicinal parts by consulting ancient Chinese medical books and local chronicles, Chinese Pharmacopeia, different processing standards of trditional Chinese medicine(TCM) decoction pieces, and modern literatures. The results showed that the earliest medicinal record of Bungarus Parvus was traced to 1894. In 1930, this medicinal material was used in the formulation of Annao Pills. The original animal, Bungarus multicinctus, was recorded by the name of "Bojijia" in 1521. The morphological characteristics, ecological habits, and poisonousness of the original animal are the same in ancient and modern records. The geographical distribution is similar between the ancient records and modern documents such as China Medicinal Animal Fauna. The dried body of young B. multicinctus is used as Bungarus Parvus, which lack detailed references. As a matter of fact, it is still inconclusive whether there are differences between young snakes and adult snakes in terms of active ingredients, pharmacological effects, and clinical applications. This study clarified the medicinal history and present situation of Bungarus Parvus. On the basis of the results, it is suggested that systematic comparison on young and adult B. multicinctus should be carried out to provide references for revising the medicinal parts of B. multicinctus.

Huangdi Anxiao Capsules-containing serum protects cell model from cognitive dysfunction in diabetes via inhibiting NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis / 中国中药杂志

This study aims to investigate the effects and the molecular mechanism of Huangdi Anxiao Capsules(HDAX)-containing serum in protecting the rat adrenal pheochromocytoma(PC12) cells from diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction induced by high glucose and whether the mechanism is related to the regulation of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3)-mediated pyroptosis. The PC12 cell model of diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction induced by high glucose was established and mcc950 was used to inhibit NLRP3. PC12 cells were randomized into control, model, HDAX-containing serum, mcc950, and HDAX-containing serum+mcc950 groups. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium(MTT) assay was employed to determine the viability, and Hoechst 33258/PI staining to detect pyroptosis of PC12 cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to measure the levels of interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β) and IL-18. Western blot was employed to determine the protein levels of postsynaptic density protein 95(PSD-95), NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD(ASC), gasdermin D(GSDMD), GSDMD-N, and cleaved cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1(caspase-1), and RT-PCR to determine the mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD, and caspase-1. The immunofluorescence assay was adopted to measure the levels and distribution of NLRP3 and GSDMD-N in PC12 cells. Compared with the control group, the model group showed decreased cell proliferation, increased PI positive rate, down-regulated protein level of PSD-95, up-regulated protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD-N, GSDMD, and cleaved caspase-1, up-regulated mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD, and caspase-1, and elevated levels of IL-1β and IL-18. Compared with the model group, HDAX-containing serum, mcc950, and the combination of them improved cell survival rate and morphology, decreased the PI positive rate, down-regulated the protein levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD-N, GSDMD, and cleaved caspase-1 and the mRNA levels of NLRP3, ASC, GSDMD, and caspase-1, and promoted the secretion of IL-1β and IL-18. The findings demonstrated that HDAX-containing serum can inhibit the pyroptosis-mediated by NLRP3 and protect PC12 cells from the cognitive dysfunction induced by high glucose.

Effect and mechanism of Zuogui Pills on neural function recovery in ischemic stroke mice based on OPN/IGF-1/mTOR / 中国中药杂志

To explore the effect and mechanism of Zuogui Pills in promoting neural tissue recovery and functional recovery in mice with ischemic stroke. Male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into a sham group, a model group, and low-, medium, and high-dose Zuogui Pills groups(3.5, 7, and 14 g·kg~(-1)), with 15 mice in each group. The ischemic stroke model was established using photochemical embolization. Stiker remove and irregular ladder walking behavioral tests were conducted before modeling and on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 after medication. Triphenyl tetrazolium chloride(TTC) staining was performed on day 3 after modeling, and T2-weighted imaging(T2WI) and diffusion-weighted imaging(DWI) were performed on day 28 after medication to evaluate the extent of brain injury. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was performed to observe the histology of the cerebral cortex. Axonal marker proteins myelin basic protein(MBP), growth-associated protein 43(GAP43), mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR), and its downstream phosphorylated s6 ribosomal protein(p-S6), as well as mechanism-related proteins osteopontin(OPN) and insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1), were detected using immunofluorescence and Western blot. Zuogui Pills had a certain restorative effect on the neural function impairment caused by ischemic stroke in mice. TTC staining showed white infarct foci in the sensory-motor cortex area, and T2WI imaging revealed cystic necrosis in the sensory-motor cortex area. The Zuogui Pills groups showed less brain tissue damage, fewer scars, and more capillaries. The number of neuronal axons in those groups was higher than that in the model group, and neuronal activity was stronger. The expression of GAP43, OPN, IGF-1, and mTOR proteins in the Zuogui Pills groups was higher than that in the model group. In summary, Zuogui Pills can promote the recovery of neural function and axonal growth in mice with ischemic stroke, and its mechanism may be related to the activation of the OPN/IGF-1/mTOR signaling pathway.

Pingyin rose essential oil alleviates LPS-Induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells via the NF-κB pathway: an integrated in vitro and network pharmacology analysis.

BACKGROUND: Rosa rugosa cv. Plena, a cultivar of Rosa rugosa, has a history of more than 1300 years of application in both medicine and food in China. The essential oil of Rosa rugosa cv. Plena (PREO) is one of the most frequently used additives in food, cosmetics and aromatherapy. PREO exhibits some anti-inflammation, antioxidant and nerve alleviating effects. However, the mechanisms behind these effects are still unclear. METHODS: The composition of PREO was determined by GC‒MS. Network pharmacology was performed to predict the possible compound-target network and analyze the possible targets against inflammation and oxidative stress. An inflammatory immune cell model was constructed by exposing RAW 264.7 cells to LPS. A series of experiments, including biochemical assays, RT‒PCR, and western blotting, were conducted to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of PREO. RESULTS: PREO treatment significantly (p < 0.05) alleviated inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers such as NO, ROS, and MDA and preserved SOD and CAT activities. GC‒MS analysis revealed that PREO consists of 57 compounds, mainly monoterpenoids. Network pharmacology revealed that citronellol, farnesol, ethyl octanoate, geranyl acetate, and methyl eugenol were active components interacting with several inflammatory pathway proteins. By measuring the gene and protein expression of possible targets by qRT‒PCR and western blotting, PREO anti-inflammatory responses in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells might be associated with the regulation of NF-κB signaling. Molecular docking showed that PREO components can interact with different proteins involved in the NF-κB pathway. CONCLUSION: The integrated study of molecular analysis and network pharmacology suggested that PREO might be a potential anti-inflammatory agent to treat inflammation and oxidative stress.