1.Herbal Textual Research on Inulae Flos in Famous Classical Formulas
Caixia LIU ; Yue HAN ; Yanzhu MA ; Lei GAO ; Sheng WANG ; Yan YANG ; Wenchuan LUO ; Ling JIN ; Jing SHAO ; Zhijia CUI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):210-221
In this paper, by referring to ancient and modern literature, the textual research of Inulae Flos has been conducted to clarify the name, origin, production area, quality evaluation, harvesting, processing and others, so as to provide reference and basis for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing this herb. After textual research, it could be verified that the medicinal use of Inulae Flos was first recorded in Shennong Bencaojing of the Han dynasty. In successive dynasties, Xuanfuhua has been taken as the official name, and it also has other alternative names such as Jinfeicao, Daogeng and Jinqianhua. The period before the Song and Yuan dynasties, the main origin of Inulae Flos was the Asteraceae plant Inula japonica, and from the Ming and Qing dynasties to the present, I. japonica and I. britannica are the primary source. In addition to the dominant basal species, there are also regional species such as I. linariifolia, I. helianthus-aquatili, and I. hupehensis. The earliest recorded production areas in ancient times were Henan, Hubei and other places, and the literature records that it has been distributed throughout the country since modern times. The medicinal part is its flower, the harvesting and processing method recorded in the past dynasties is mainly harvested in the fifth and ninth lunar months, and dried in the sun, and the modern harvesting is mostly harvested in summer and autumn when the flowers bloom, in order to remove impurities, dry in the shade or dry in the sun. In addition, the roots, whole herbs and aerial parts are used as medicinal materials. In ancient times, there were no records about the quality of Inulae Flos, and in modern times, it is generally believed that the quality of complete flower structure, small receptacles, large blooms, yellow petals, long filaments, many fluffs, no fragments, and no branches is better. Ancient processing methods primarily involved cleaning, steaming, and sun-drying, supplemented by techniques such as boiling, roasting, burning, simmering, stir-frying, and honey-processing. Modern processing focuses mainly on cleaning the stems and leaves before use. Regarding the medicinal properties, ancient texts describe it as salty and sweet in taste, slightly warm in nature, and mildly toxic. Modern studies characterize it as bitter, pungent, and salty in taste, with a slightly warm nature. Its therapeutic effects remain consistent across eras, including descending Qi, resolving phlegm, promoting diuresis, and stopping vomiting. Based on the research results, it is recommended that when developing famous classical formulas containing Inulae Flos, either I. japonica or I. britannica should be used as the medicinal source. Processing methods should follow formula requirements, where no processing instructions are specified, the raw products may be used after cleaning.
2.Herbal Textual Research on Inulae Flos in Famous Classical Formulas
Caixia LIU ; Yue HAN ; Yanzhu MA ; Lei GAO ; Sheng WANG ; Yan YANG ; Wenchuan LUO ; Ling JIN ; Jing SHAO ; Zhijia CUI ; Zhilai ZHAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(3):210-221
In this paper, by referring to ancient and modern literature, the textual research of Inulae Flos has been conducted to clarify the name, origin, production area, quality evaluation, harvesting, processing and others, so as to provide reference and basis for the development and utilization of famous classical formulas containing this herb. After textual research, it could be verified that the medicinal use of Inulae Flos was first recorded in Shennong Bencaojing of the Han dynasty. In successive dynasties, Xuanfuhua has been taken as the official name, and it also has other alternative names such as Jinfeicao, Daogeng and Jinqianhua. The period before the Song and Yuan dynasties, the main origin of Inulae Flos was the Asteraceae plant Inula japonica, and from the Ming and Qing dynasties to the present, I. japonica and I. britannica are the primary source. In addition to the dominant basal species, there are also regional species such as I. linariifolia, I. helianthus-aquatili, and I. hupehensis. The earliest recorded production areas in ancient times were Henan, Hubei and other places, and the literature records that it has been distributed throughout the country since modern times. The medicinal part is its flower, the harvesting and processing method recorded in the past dynasties is mainly harvested in the fifth and ninth lunar months, and dried in the sun, and the modern harvesting is mostly harvested in summer and autumn when the flowers bloom, in order to remove impurities, dry in the shade or dry in the sun. In addition, the roots, whole herbs and aerial parts are used as medicinal materials. In ancient times, there were no records about the quality of Inulae Flos, and in modern times, it is generally believed that the quality of complete flower structure, small receptacles, large blooms, yellow petals, long filaments, many fluffs, no fragments, and no branches is better. Ancient processing methods primarily involved cleaning, steaming, and sun-drying, supplemented by techniques such as boiling, roasting, burning, simmering, stir-frying, and honey-processing. Modern processing focuses mainly on cleaning the stems and leaves before use. Regarding the medicinal properties, ancient texts describe it as salty and sweet in taste, slightly warm in nature, and mildly toxic. Modern studies characterize it as bitter, pungent, and salty in taste, with a slightly warm nature. Its therapeutic effects remain consistent across eras, including descending Qi, resolving phlegm, promoting diuresis, and stopping vomiting. Based on the research results, it is recommended that when developing famous classical formulas containing Inulae Flos, either I. japonica or I. britannica should be used as the medicinal source. Processing methods should follow formula requirements, where no processing instructions are specified, the raw products may be used after cleaning.
3.Exploring the pathogenesis and treatment methods of irritable bowel syndrome from the
Yan XU ; Fang YANG ; Rongshi SHAO ; Huili SUN ; Juan LI ; Xin CHEN ; Jing HAN
Journal of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;49(1):10-15
This article adopts Professor CHEN Chaozu′s " sanjiao composed by membrane-striae" theory as its foundation to explore the relationship between irritable bowel syndrome and functional/structural abnormalities of the membrane-striae. Sanjiao encompasses both the tangible membrane and the intangible striae. These striae permeate the entire body,and their pathological changes comprehensively reflect qi,body fluids,and fasciae. Based on the physiological function of the membrane-striae in regulating qi and fluids,the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a disharmony of membrane-striae and an imbalance of the qi-fluid interactions. In the early stage,external pathogens,emotional factors,or dietary stimuli often cause membrane-striae constriction and disordered qi-fluid circulation. In the middle stage,stagnant fluids gradually transform into phlegm retention,leading to membrane-striae obstruction. In the late stage,deficiency of vital qi becomes predominant,manifesting as laxity of membrane-striae with impaired control or weakened conduction. The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome should adopt " unblocking" as the guiding principle. In the early stage,therapy should focus on eliminating pathogenic factors and soothing membrane-striae to promptly restore qi-fluid circulation,thereby attaining unblocking through spasm relief. In the middle stage,treatment should focus on resolving tangible obstructions in membrane-striae,achieving unblocking via dredging. In the late stage,the emphasis should shift to reinforcing healthy qi,particularly by strengthening spleen-kidney yang qi,and achieving unblocking through supplementation. Concurrently,throughout the entire treatment process,the regulation of mental state and easing of emotional tension should be integrated to alleviate patient′s anxiety,achieving the goal of holistic treatment of both body and mind.
4.Ionizing Radiation-induced Lens Injury: Epidemiology, Dose-effect Relationship, and Molecular Mechanisms
Cheng-Hao HU ; Shao-Han REN ; Hai-Tao ZHANG ; Jing-Ming ZHAN
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(3):688-696
The crystalline lens of the eye is recognized as one of the most radiosensitive tissues in the human body. While the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) has classified ionizing radiation (IR)-induced cataracts as a tissue reaction (deterministic effect) and subsequently reduced the occupational equivalent dose limit for the lens, significant uncertainties remain regarding the precise dose threshold and the complex biological pathways driving lens opacification. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge concerning radiation-induced lens damage, integrating epidemiological exposure characteristics with dose-response modeling and mechanistic molecular insights. First, we analyze exposure characteristics through four epidemiological dimensions: dose, time, space, and population. Clinical evidence suggests that radiation cataracts—particularly posterior subcapsular opacities—exhibit a distinct latency period that is inversely correlated with dose. We highlight that risk is not confined to acute high-dose scenarios (such as in atomic bomb survivors) but is increasingly relevant in chronic low-dose occupational settings (e.g., interventional radiology) and medical diagnostics (e.g., CT scans). Crucially, individual susceptibility is modified by genetic background, age, and environmental co-factors, complicating risk assessment. Second, we critically examine the dose-effect relationship. Although the ICRP suggests a threshold of 0.5 Gy, emerging data challenge the traditional threshold model, with some studies advocating for a linear non-threshold (LNT) relationship. We further discuss the critical roles of radiation quality and dose rate. High linear energy transfer (LET) radiation demonstrates a significantly higher relative biological effectiveness (RBE) for cataractogenesis compared to low-LET radiation. Paradoxically, and unlike many other tissues, the lens may exhibit an “inverse dose-rate effect,” where fractionated or protracted exposures potentially enhance biological damage—a finding that challenges classical radiobiological paradigms. Third, drawing upon the “cataractogenic load” hypothesis and the unique physiological constraints of the lens, this review elucidates the multidimensional molecular mechanisms driving radiation-induced opacification. Key mechanisms include four aspects. (1) DNA damage and repair: IR induces DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) that, due to the lens’ limited repair capacity (modulated by genes such as ATM, Ptch1, and Ercc2), lead to the accumulation of damage. (2) Antioxidant defense system: dysfunction of the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant axis results in redox imbalances, triggering NF-κB-mediated inflammation and protein aggregation. (3) Cell proliferation and senescence: IR disrupts cell cycle regulation, causing a dichotomy of effects—driving premature senescence in some cell populations (evidenced by ATM nuclear foci) while inducing aberrant proliferation via growth factor upregulation (FGF2, TGFβ) in others. (4) Cell migration and adhesion: activation of the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway and alterations in the E-cadherin complex promote the abnormal migration of epithelial cells to the posterior capsule, a hallmark of radiation-induced cataracts. In conclusion, radiation-induced cataractogenesis is a multifactorial process in which genetic susceptibility and environmental stressors converge to overwhelm the lens’ homeostatic thresholds. Future research must prioritize longitudinal cohort studies to refine dose thresholds and employ multi-omics approaches to map the crosstalk between DNA damage responses and matrix remodeling. Establishing a robust mechanistic model is essential for developing targeted radioprotective strategies and optimizing radiation protection standards for occupational and medical safety.
5.Modern Clinical Applications and Mechanism of Zhigancao Tang: A Review
Zhibo CHANG ; Chuhan DUAN ; Xiaoyan WANG ; Jing SHAO
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(11):361-370
Zhigancao Tang, derived from the Treatise on Cold Damage,is a classic and renowned formula for treating "intermittent and irregular pulse, and palpitations of the heart". It has an exquisite formulation. By replenishing Qi, nourishing Yin, activating Yang, and restoring the pulse, it achieves the dual supplementation of Yin and Yang, and the simultaneous treatment of Qi and blood. With the practical expansion by practitioners over successive dynasties, the application scope of this formula has been continuously expanding, extending from traditional cardiovascular diseases to diseases of multiple systems, fully reflecting the theoretical characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) of "treating different diseases with the same method". Modern research shows that Zhigancao Tang not only has a remarkable curative effect on cardiovascular diseases but is also widely applied to diseases of the respiratory, nervous, digestive, endocrine, oncologic, gynecologic, and otorhinolaryngologic systems, demonstrating its interdisciplinary clinical application value. At the same time, research on the mechanism of action of Zhigancao Tang is also continuously deepening. The mechanisms by which it treats diseases involve multiple aspects, including anti-arrhythmic effects, myocardial protection, anti-fibrosis, antioxidative stress and anti‑inflammatory effects, regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, enhancing hematopoietic function, and improving hemorheology. These mechanisms work synergistically to jointly regulate the physiological functions of the body and play a role in treating diseases. However, there are still some deficiencies in current research. For example, the sample size of some clinical trials is small, most of the mechanism studies are based on animal models or in vitro experiments, there is insufficient high-quality evidence from clinical trials, the composition of the compound formula is complex, and the pharmacodynamic material basis and the rules of compatibility still need to be deeply analyzed. By consulting relevant literature, this article systematically summarizes the modern clinical application and action mechanism of Zhigancao Tang, aiming to provide new ideas for its subsequent in-depth research and clinical application, promote the integrated development of classic TCM formulas and modern medicine, and further explore its great potential in clinical treatment.
6.Mixed Cardiac Amyloidosis:a Case Report and Literature Review
Chinese Circulation Journal 2025;40(4):388-391
We report a rare case of mixed cardiac amyloidosis.The patient was a 66-year-old woman who suffered from recurrent syncope and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was diagnosed.As the disease progresses,multiple systems are involved.Finally,AL-λ and transthyretin amylodosis(ATTR)mixed cardiac amyloidosis was confirmed by endocardial myocardial biopsy,mainly AL-λ type.This article reviews the clinical manifestations,diagnostic methods,and therapeutic modalities of cardiac amyloidosis,and discusses the rarity of mixed amyloidosis and its diagnostic challenges.This case suggests that clinicians should remain vigilant in considering the possibility of amyloidosis when dealing with patients with progressive heart failure and cardiac hypertrophy,and highlights the importance of endocardial myocardial biopsy in the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis in suspected patients.
7.Morphea alopecia
Qiuwei TAO ; Qitao CHEN ; Guanghui SHAO ; Yuqian LI ; Qilin ZHU ; Jing ZHU ; Zhongming LI ; Xufeng DU
Chinese Journal of Dermatology 2025;58(7):664-667
Morphea alopecia is a rare secondary cicatricial alopecia, often caused by linear scleroderma of the scalp. When hair loss appears as the only symptom of morphea, it is easily confused with other localized alopecia. The diagnosis of morphea alopecia depends on histopathologic and dermoscopic examinations. In order to improve the understanding of morphea alopecia among clinicians, this review summarizes research progress in its pathogenesis, clinical and pathological characteristics, diagnosis and treatment.
8.Mechanism of improving oxidative stress in diabetic kidney disease by regulating NOX family through ultrafiltration membrane extract of Angelica sinensis and Radix Hedysari
Qian GUO ; Sheng-fang WAN ; Jing SHAO ; Rong-ke LI ; Zhao-hui WEI ; Lei ZHANG
Chinese Pharmacological Bulletin 2025;41(8):1584-1592
Aim To investigate the mechanisms of the ultrafiltration membrane extract of Angelica sinensis and Radix Hedysari extracts on oxidative stress in rats with diabetic kidney disease(DKD).Methods Forty-five SD rats were randomly divided into a control group(n=8)a model group(n=37).Rats in the model group were fed a high-sugar,high-fat diet for four weeks,followed by intraperitoneal injection of strepto-zotocin at a dose of 30 mg·kg-1 to induce diabetes in the rats.Three weeks later,rats with 24-hour urinary protein(24-hUP)levels more than or equal to 30 mg were injected via the tail vein with 0.05 mg·kg-1 of 10%high molecular weight dextran for three times to induce a model of blood stasis in diabetic kidney dis-ease(DKD).The rats were then evaluated for random blood glucose(GLU)levels,24-hUP,biochemical markers,histopathological staining,and the protein expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phos-phate(NADPH)oxidase(NOX)1,NOX2,NOX3,NOX4,and NOX5 in renal tissues using immunoblot a-nalysis.Results Compared to the control group,rats in the model group showed significantly increased GLU,24-hUP,SCr,BUN,TG,TC,bu markedly de-creased ALB2,HDL,LDL levels,and the relative ex-pression of NOX1,NOX2,NOX4,NOX5 proteins in-creased markedly(P<0.01);Comparison with the model group,rats in the treatment group exhibited sig-nificantly decreased GLU,24-hUP,SCr,BUN,TG,TC at 6 weeks and 8 weeks,but markedly increased ALB2,HDL,LDL levels,and the relative expression of NOX1,NOX2,NOX4,NOX5 proteins decreased significantly(P<0.05).Conclusions The ultrafil-tration membrane extract of Angelica sinensis and Radix Hedysari can effectively ameliorate oxidative stress and renal function in DKD rats,which may be associated with targets within the NOX family.
9.Advances in ecological momentary assessment based on mobile information devices
Shuotao LI ; Jing XU ; Xiangyuan WANG ; Wenzi WANG ; Ke SHAO ; Liying SHI ; Hongxia GE
Chinese Journal of Modern Nursing 2025;31(4):556-560
This article provides an overview of ecological momentary assessment based on mobile information devices. It reviews the design frameworks, domestic and international research progress, and the challenges associated with its application. The study aims to offer insights and reference methods for developing electronic ecological momentary assessment platforms in China.
10.Prevalence of sarcopenia and influencing factors in middle-aged and older adults in Zhejiang Province
Yincun WANG ; Xucheng WU ; Kaili SUN ; Xueqing JIA ; Liming ZHANG ; Li WANG ; Jing SHAO ; Zuobing CHEN ; Xiaoting LIU ; Peng ZHAN ; Zuyun LIU
Chinese Journal of Epidemiology 2025;46(7):1224-1230
Objective:To investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia and potential influencing factors in middle-aged and elderly populations in Zhejiang Province.Methods:Data were obtained from Zhejiang Provincial Household Economic Status Survey, a cross-sectional survey was condcuted in middle-aged and olde adults selected through multi-stage sampling in three cities in Zhejiang (Huzhou, Jiaxing and Shaoxing) in July 2023. A total of 3 019 study participants, average age 62.3 years old, 53.5% men, were included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sarcopenia screening was conducted by using the questionnaire with five sarcopenia related-items. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with sarcopenia.Results:The prevalence of sarcopenia in the middle-aged and old study participants was 4.47%. Significant differences were observed between the participants with or without sarcopenia in terms of age, educational level, BMI, alcohol consumption status, diet habit, physical activity level, sleep quality, number of chronic diseases, childhood socioeconomic status, adulthood community socioeconomic status, muscle strength, walking assistance, ability to stand from seat, ability to climb stairs, and fall frequency ( P<0.05). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that old age (≥75 years: OR=2.82, 95% CI: 1.60-4.97), low body weight ( OR=1.96, 95% CI: 1.06-3.62), unhealthy diet habit ( OR=1.57, 95% CI: 1.01-2.46), physical inactivity ( OR=5.80, 95% CI: 3.09-10.88), poor or very poor sleep quality ( OR=1.65, 95% CI:1.23-2.41), number of chronic diseases (1 chronic disease: OR=1.84, 95% CI: 1.08-3.14; 2 chronic diseases: OR=3.22, 95% CI: 1.81-5.71; 3 or more chronic diseases: OR=3.74, 95% CI: 2.11-6.65), poor childhood socioeconomic status ( OR=2.98, 95% CI: 1.23-7.20), and poor adulthood community socioeconomic status ( OR=3.87, 95% CI: 1.63-9.17) were significant risk factors for sarcopenia. Conclusions:The prevalence of sarcopenia was relatively low in middle-aged and old population in Zhejiang. Age, BMI, unhealthy diet, physical activity level, sleep quality, number of chronic diseases, childhood socioeconomic status, and adulthood community socioeconomic status were identified as significant influencing factors.


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