1.Mechanisms of Antidepressant Effect of Zhizi Houpotang and Its Herbal Pairs Based on NLRP3/GSDMD Signaling Pathway
Chang CHEN ; Ziwen GUO ; Tingyu SONG ; Yan WANG ; Baomei XIA ; Weiwei TAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(6):72-80
ObjectiveTaking classical herbal pair compatibility research as the entry point, this study aimed to deeply investigate the material basis and compatibility rules underlying the antidepressant effects of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula Zhizi Houpotang, and to elucidate its antidepressant mechanism, with a particular focus on its regulation of neuroinflammatory responses mediated by the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3)/gasdermin D (GSDMD) signaling pathway and the consequent improvement of neuronal synaptic plasticity. MethodsC57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into a blank control group, a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) depression model group, a Zhizi Houpotang full-formula group (6 g·kg-1·d-1), a Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex (MOC)-Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (AFI) herbal pair group (4.2 g·kg-1·d-1), a Gardeniae Fructus (GF)-MOC herbal pair group (4.2 g·kg-1·d-1), a GF-AFI herbal pair group (3.6 g·kg-1·d-1), and a positive drug group (fluoxetine, 12 mg·kg-1·d-1). Depressive-like behaviors in mice were evaluated using behavioral tests. Immunofluorescence staining was used to label and quantify the expression of the microglial marker ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Ibal) and the purinergic receptor P2X ligand-gated ion channel 7 (P2RX7) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was applied to detect the levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) in serum and PFC tissues. Western blot was employed to determine the expression of pannexin 1 (Panx1), P2RX7, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), Caspase-1, GSDMD, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95), and the presynaptic protein Synapsin 1 in PFC tissues. Golgi staining was used to assess dendritic spine density of neurons in the PFC. ResultsCompared with the blank control group, the depression model group exhibited significant depressive-like behaviors. In addition, the immunofluorescence areas of Ibal and P2RX7 in the PFC were significantly increased (P<0.01), the levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in serum and the PFC were significantly elevated (P<0.01), and the protein expression levels of Panx1, P2RX7, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1, and GSDMD in the PFC were significantly upregulated (P<0.01). In contrast, the protein expression levels of PSD95 and Synapsin 1 were significantly downregulated (P<0.01), and neuronal dendritic spine density was significantly reduced (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the Zhizi Houpotang full-formula group and the GF-MOC herbal pair group showed significant improvement in all the above indicators (P<0.01). The GF-AFI herbal pair group improved all the above indicators except P2RX7, Caspase-1, GSDMD, and PSD95 (P<0.05, P<0.01). In contrast, the MOC-AFI herbal pair group showed no statistically significant improvement in any of the above indicators compared with the model group. ConclusionZhizi Houpotang and its key herbal pair, GF-MOC, can effectively ameliorate CUMS-induced depressive-like behaviors in mice. Its core antidepressant mechanism may involve inhibition of P2RX7/Panx1 signaling, thereby blocking the NLRP3/GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis pathway and significantly reducing the release of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. Simultaneously, it upregulates the expression of synapse-related proteins PSD95 and Synapsin 1 and increases dendritic spine density, promoting the recovery of synaptic plasticity. These results suggest that GF plays a key role in the antidepressant effects of this formula, and that the compatibility of GF with MOC may represent the principal herbal pair combination responsible for its core therapeutic action.
2.Selection and application of transanal local excision techniques in the context of multimodal therapy for rectal cancer
Yanan WANG ; Ke XU ; Tingyu MOU ; Zhenghao LI ; Yang ZHAO
Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery 2025;28(11):1237-1242
In the field of rectal cancer treatment, transanal local excision techniques (such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery [TEM] and transanal minimally invasive surgery [TAMIS]) have gradually become an important therapeutic option for patients with rectal cancer at various stages, owing to their minimally invasive characteristics and organ-preserving advantages. For low-risk T1 stage tumors, local excision can achieve radical tumor control while preserving organ function. For some patients with high-risk T1 stage or T2-3 stage rectal cancer, the efficacy of combined chemoradiotherapy and local excision is expected to be comparable to that of radical total mesorectal excision (TME). In patients with advanced rectal cancer who achieve clinical complete response (cCR) after neoadjuvant therapy, local excision can confirm the pathological remission status. However, it is necessary to balance the risk of surgical complications against the potential benefits of organ preservation with the "watch and wait" strategy. Currently, transanal local excision techniques have broad application prospects, and comprehensive assessment of patients' overall condition, implementation of multidisciplinary collaboration, and conduct of long-term follow-up are crucial to ensuring the safety of treatment.
3.Analysis of the Therapeutic Effect of Huoxue Xiaoyi Decoction Combined with Exercise on Ovarian Endometriosis
Tingyu ZHAO ; Xinchun YANG ; Guang SHI ; Ruihua ZHAO ; Zijin WANG ; Ran XU ; Jumei SHI ; Yu ZHANG
World Science and Technology-Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;27(5):1326-1334
Objective To analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of Huoxue Xiaoyi decoction combined with exercise in the treatment of ovarian endometriosis.Methods 36 patients with ovarian endometriosis treated in Guang'anmen Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences from May 2022 to November 2022 were selected and treated with Huoxue Xiaoyi decoction combined with exercise for 3 months.The size of ovarian ectopic cyst,dysmenorrhea VAS score,PBAC score,female hormones,serum CA125 and CA199,catecholamines and cytokines levels were observed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety.Results After treatment,the maximum diameter of ovarian ectopic cyst,dysmenorrhea VAS score,PBAC score,cytokines(serum IL-1β,IL-2,IL-4,IL-6,IL-8,IL-10)levels were significantly lower than those before treatment(P<0.05).The levels of SHBG and adrenaline were significantly higher than those before treatment(P<0.05).During the treatment,the patient had no adverse drug reactions,vital signs,liver,and kidney function indexes were normal.Conclusion Huoxue Xiaoyi decoction combined with exercise therapy can reduce the size of ovarian ectopic cyst,relieve dysmenorrhea,regulate menstrual volume,increase the level of adrenaline,increase the level of sex hormone binding globulin,reduce the level of cytokines,and has fewer adverse reactions and good safety.
4.Multicenter survey on the co-occurrence patterns of psychosocial and behavioral problems in children
Minjun LI ; Feiyong JIA ; Yunjing ZHAO ; Xiaoyan KE ; Wenli WANG ; Li CHEN ; Yan HAO ; Ling LI ; Yu LING ; Jie ZHANG ; Lin WANG ; Tingyu LI
Chinese Journal of Pediatrics 2025;63(9):985-991
Objective:To investigate the co-occurrence patterns of psychosocial and behavioral problems among children and to identify associated influencing factors.Methods:A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2023. A cluster random sample of 19 176 children aged 6-16 years was recruited from middle-income areas across 10 provincial capitals and municipalities in China. Psychological and behavioral problems, including anxiety, compulsive behavior, social withdrawal, depression, somatic complaints, social problems, schizoid, delinquent behaviors, hyperactivity, sexual issues, and aggression, were assessed using the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist parent version. Co-occurrence was defined as ≥2 concurrent problems. Children were divided into 4 groups by gender and age: boys aged 6-11 years, girls aged 6-11 years, boys aged 12-16 years, and girls aged 12-16 years. Those children who had psychosocial and behavioral problems were further categorized into the single-problem group, and the co-occurrence group based on assessment results. High-frequency co-occurrence phenotypes of children′s psychosocial and behavioral problems were identified. Demographic factors, such as parental employment, education, as well as psychosocial factors like parent-child relationship, screen time and outdoor activity, were investigated. χ 2 test was used to analyze differences between groups. Multivariate Logistic regression modeling was conducted to identify potential factors. Results:Among 14 711 children (7 501 boys, 7 210 girls) who provided effective questionnaires, the detection rates of single problem in the boys aged 6-11 years, girls aged 6-11 years, boys aged 12-16 years, and girls aged 12-16 years groups were 4.9% (171/3 461), 6.2% (193/3 120), 3.9% (158/4 040), and 5.1% (208/4 090), respectively; the detection rates of co-occurrence were 7.6% (262/3 461), 7.7% (241/3 120), 4.9% (199/4 040), and 5.7% (234/4 090), respectively. The overall detection rates of co-occurrence was higher than that of single problem ( χ2=25.47, P<0.001). Among children with co-occurrence, there were varied manifestations: in the boys aged 6-11 years group, the detection rates of social withdrawal (69.8% (183/262)), schizoid-like behavior (68.3% (179/262)), and compulsive behavior (67.6% (177/262)) were relatively high; in the girls aged 6-11 years group, the detection rates of schizoid-compulsive behavior (69.3% (167/241)), delinquent behavior (65.6% (158/241)), and hyperactivity (58.9% (142/241)) were relatively high; in the boys aged 12-16 years group, the detection rates of hyperactivity (78.9% (157/199)), compulsive behavior (67.3% (134/199)), and immature behavior (57.3% (114/199)) were relatively high; in the girls aged 12-16 years group, the detection rates of schizoid-like behavior (89.7% (210/234)), immature behavior (59.0% (138/234)), and cruelty (57.7% (135/234)) were relatively high. Maternal bachelor′s degree or higher ( OR=0.78, 95% CI 0.61-0.99, P=0.038) served as co-occurrence protective factors, whereas having 1 or more siblings, increased parent-child conflict and decreased parent-child interaction time ( OR=1.24, 1.41, 1.36; 95% CI 1.02-1.52, 1.15-1.73, 1.02-1.82, all P<0.05) were co-occurrence risk factors. Conclusions:Children exhibit strong co-occurrence tendencies in psychosocial and behavioral problems. Compulsive and schizoid traits are the predominant co-occurring phenotypes for childhood and girls respectively. ?Familial environment plays a critical role, necessitating ?multidimensional clinical assessments and ?family-centered interventions.
5.Analysis of the Therapeutic Effect of Huoxue Xiaoyi Decoction Combined with Exercise on Ovarian Endometriosis
Tingyu ZHAO ; Xinchun YANG ; Guang SHI ; Ruihua ZHAO ; Zijin WANG ; Ran XU ; Jumei SHI ; Yu ZHANG
World Science and Technology-Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;27(5):1326-1334
Objective To analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of Huoxue Xiaoyi decoction combined with exercise in the treatment of ovarian endometriosis.Methods 36 patients with ovarian endometriosis treated in Guang'anmen Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences from May 2022 to November 2022 were selected and treated with Huoxue Xiaoyi decoction combined with exercise for 3 months.The size of ovarian ectopic cyst,dysmenorrhea VAS score,PBAC score,female hormones,serum CA125 and CA199,catecholamines and cytokines levels were observed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety.Results After treatment,the maximum diameter of ovarian ectopic cyst,dysmenorrhea VAS score,PBAC score,cytokines(serum IL-1β,IL-2,IL-4,IL-6,IL-8,IL-10)levels were significantly lower than those before treatment(P<0.05).The levels of SHBG and adrenaline were significantly higher than those before treatment(P<0.05).During the treatment,the patient had no adverse drug reactions,vital signs,liver,and kidney function indexes were normal.Conclusion Huoxue Xiaoyi decoction combined with exercise therapy can reduce the size of ovarian ectopic cyst,relieve dysmenorrhea,regulate menstrual volume,increase the level of adrenaline,increase the level of sex hormone binding globulin,reduce the level of cytokines,and has fewer adverse reactions and good safety.
6.Application and exploration of single-incision plus one port laparoscopic surgery in radical resection of colorectal cancer
Yu ZHU ; Hao WANG ; Yanan WANG ; Haijun DENG ; Tingyu MOU
Chinese Journal of Digestive Surgery 2025;24(6):733-738
The surgical management of colorectal cancer has evolved from conventional multiport laparoscopic surgery toward more minimally invasive and individualized approaches. Among these, single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) or reduced-port laparoscopic surgery (RPLS) has gained increasing attention from clinicians. Single-incision plus one port laparoscopic surgery (SILS+1) combines the advantages of both SILS and RPLS. Recent studies have demonstrated that compared with conventional multiport laparoscopic surgery, SILS+1 could yield comparable safety, feasibility and oncologic outcomes in treating colorectal cancer while offering additional benefits in enhanced recovery and better cosmesis.The development of SILS+1 relies heavily on innovations in single-port platforms and specialized instruments. By strictly adhering to its indica-tions, skillfully employing string and traction techniques during surgery, and the appropriate mana-gement of complications such as hemorrhage, the procedure can be performed safely and smoothly. The authors review relevant domestic and international studies and integrate the practical experi-ence to provide an in-depth discussion on the application and exploration of SILS+1 in radical colorectal cancer surgery, aiming to provide valuable insights for broader adoption of this approach.
7.Selection and application of transanal local excision techniques in the context of multimodal therapy for rectal cancer
Yanan WANG ; Ke XU ; Tingyu MOU ; Zhenghao LI ; Yang ZHAO
Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery 2025;28(11):1237-1242
In the field of rectal cancer treatment, transanal local excision techniques (such as transanal endoscopic microsurgery [TEM] and transanal minimally invasive surgery [TAMIS]) have gradually become an important therapeutic option for patients with rectal cancer at various stages, owing to their minimally invasive characteristics and organ-preserving advantages. For low-risk T1 stage tumors, local excision can achieve radical tumor control while preserving organ function. For some patients with high-risk T1 stage or T2-3 stage rectal cancer, the efficacy of combined chemoradiotherapy and local excision is expected to be comparable to that of radical total mesorectal excision (TME). In patients with advanced rectal cancer who achieve clinical complete response (cCR) after neoadjuvant therapy, local excision can confirm the pathological remission status. However, it is necessary to balance the risk of surgical complications against the potential benefits of organ preservation with the "watch and wait" strategy. Currently, transanal local excision techniques have broad application prospects, and comprehensive assessment of patients' overall condition, implementation of multidisciplinary collaboration, and conduct of long-term follow-up are crucial to ensuring the safety of treatment.
8.Association between screen time and anxiety-depression symptoms and their comorbidity among middle school students in Taiyuan City
Chinese Journal of School Health 2025;46(7):980-984
Objective:
To investigate the association between screen time (ST) during leisure time and anxiety-depression symptoms among middle school students, so as to provide a basis for formulating relevant intervention measures.
Methods:
From November to December 2023, a stratified cluster random sampling method was used to select 2 542 students from junior and senior high school in Taiyuan City. A self designed questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to investigate ST and anxiety/depression symptoms among middle school students. The Logistic regression model was used to explore the association of ST with symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as with anxiety and depression comorbiditles (CAD).
Results:
The detection rates of anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and CAD were 13.69%, 15.77%, and 10.11%, respectively. The median ST was 2.00 h/d [interquartile range ( IQR =2.38) for weekly averages], with 0.33 h/d ( IQR =1.67) on work days and 5.00 h/d ( IQR=5.50) on rest days. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the total ST of mobile phones during rest days ( OR =1.07, 1.10, 1.11) and the averages ST of mobile phones over a week ( OR = 1.20 , 1.22, 1.29), as well as the total ST of all screen types during rest days ( OR =1.04, 1.04, 1.05) and the averages ST of all screen types over a week ( OR =1.08, 1.09, 1.21) were positively correlated with anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and CAD (all P <0.01).
Conclusions
Among middle school students in Taiyuan City, screen time is positively correlated with symptoms of anxiety or depression and the comorbidity of anxiety and depression, especially smartphone screen time and weekend screen use. Therefore, measures should be implemented to reduce unnecessary screen time among middle school students, especially the use of mobile phones, in order to mitigate the occurrence of anxiety and depression.
9.The Practice and Effect Analysis of SPOC+Flipped Classroom and AI Integration in Radiology Teaching
Hongyue WANG ; Tingyu LI ; Yu SHI ; Runlin FENG ; Kunqiong CAO
Journal of Kunming Medical University 2025;46(9):166-172
Objective To explore the advantages of combining small private online courses(SPOC)with artificial intelligence(AI)in radiology nursing teaching,in order to compensate for the shortcomings of traditional teaching models.Methods Eighty nursing students interning in the radiology department were randomly selected as research subjects and divided into an experimental group(SPOC+flipped classroom+AI-assisted teaching mode)and a control group(traditional teaching mode),with 40 students in each group.The effectiveness of the SPOC+flipped classroom+AI-assisted teaching mode was evaluated by comparing theoretical tests,nursing skills tests,self-learning ability assessments,and satisfaction with teaching modes between the two groups.Results The average scores of chapter tests,month-end assessments and graduation examinations in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group(P<0.001);The average scores of indwelling needle embedding,contrast agent injection,and contrast agent allergy treatment tests in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group(P<0.001);The online learning time,homework completion rate,and online test scores of the experimental group were higher than those in the control group(P<0.001);The overall satisfaction with the teaching mode was higher in the experimental group than in the control group,with statistically significant differences(P<0.001).Conclusion The SPOC+flipped classroom+AI-assisted teaching model possesses important advantages in the instruction of nursing the department of radiology,and provides strong support for the innovation and development of nursing education in the field.
10.Network pharmacology: Advancing the application of large language models in traditional Chinese medicine research
Qingyuan LIU ; Dingfan ZHANG ; Boyang WANG ; Weibo ZHAO ; Tingyu ZHANG ; Chayanis SUTCHARITCHAN ; Shao LI
Science of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;3(2):113-123
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is characterized by complex, multicomponent herbal formulations that challenge the conventional“one drug, one target” paradigm. Network pharmacology, through the construction of multilayered drug-target-disease networks, provides a systematic framework for unraveling TCM’s multitarget and multipathway mechanisms. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly large language models (LLMs), further enhance data integration, target identification, and clinical decision-making. This review synthesizes current progress in the application of network pharmacology and LLMs in TCM, highlighting their potential to deepen mechanistic insights and optimize drug discovery. By bridging traditional medical wisdom with modern computational tools, this integrative approach aims to advance the scientific validation of TCM and foster innovative healthcare solutions.


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