1.Mechanism of Zuoguiwan in Inhibiting Osteoclast Activation Induced by Breast Cancer via Regulating p38 MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway
Jianjiang FU ; Yinlong MEI ; Junchao MA ; Xiaocui ZHU ; Wei WANG ; Hong LYU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(1):1-9
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of Zuoguiwan on osteoclast activation induced by breast cancer and its mechanism. MethodsTo simulate breast cancer-induced osteoclastic bone metastasis, RAW264.7 cells were cultured in conditioned medium containing 50% supernatant of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The dosages of Zuoguiwan used in the experiment were sera containing 5% and 10% Zuoguiwan. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to detect osteoclast activation. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure Cathepsin K secretion from RAW264.7 cells. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of osteocalcin (OCN) and bone sialoprotein (BSP). Immunoprecipitation was employed to detect the interaction between Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and core binding factor β subunit (CBF-β). Western blot was used to assess the protein expression of Runx2, phosphorylated Runx2 (p-Runx2), extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), p-ERK1/2, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), p-p38 MAPK, and CBF-β. ResultsCompared with the blank group, the MDA-MB-231 cell supernatant group showed a significant increase in TRAP-positive cell counts and Cathepsin K secretion. Meanwhile, the expression levels of p-Runx2, Runx2-CBF-β interaction, BSP and OCN mRNA, p-p38 MAPK, and p-ERK1/2 proteins were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the MDA-MB-231 cell supernatant group, Zuoguiwan-containing sera significantly reduced TRAP-positive cell counts and Cathepsin K secretion (P<0.01), significantly increased p-Runx2, BSP and OCN mRNA expression, as well as p-p38 MAPK and p-ERK1/2 protein levels, and promoted the interaction between Runx2 and CBF-β (P<0.01). No significant change in Runx2 expression was observed. Compared to the blank group, the BVD-523 group showed significantly lower expression of p-p38 MAPK and p-ERK1/2 proteins (P<0.01). Compared with the BVD-523 group, both low and high concentration Zuoguiwan-containing sera groups showed significantly higher p-p38 MAPK expression (P<0.01), and the high concentration Zuoguiwan group also exhibited a significant increase in p-ERK1/2 expression (P<0.01), while no statistical difference was found in the low-dose group. ConclusionZuoguiwan inhibits osteoclast activation by inducing phosphorylation of the key transcriptional regulator Runx2 in intra-osteoclast bone formation, and this process is closely associated with the activation of the p38 MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.
2.Effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction training for chronic pain of military personnel in plateau area
Mei WANG ; Deng YANG ; Wei PENG ; Jintao QU
China Occupational Medicine 2025;52(1):76-81
Objective To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in the management of chronic pain among military personnel stationed in plateau area of China. Methods Military personnel who had been stationed at an altitude ranging from 3 300 to 3 500 meters for over four months and suffered from chronic pain were selected as the study subjects by the judgment sampling method. A total of 51 individuals were assigned to the control group, and 53 individuals were assigned to the MBSR group using the random number table method. Individuals of the control group received conventional pain management, while the MBSR group received an additional eight-week MBSR training alongside conventional management. Pain, mindfulness levels, mood state, and psychological resilience of individuals were assessed before and 12 weeks after the intervention using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form, the Profile of Mood States, and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Results After the intervention, the BPI scores, and the scores of the pain intensity and pain impact dimensions of individuals in the MBSR group were lower than those in the control group (all P<0.01). The reductions in these three scores were greater in the MBSR group than those in the control group (all P<0.01). Meanwhile, individuals in the MBSR group showed superior improvements in the mindfulness level score, the total mood disturbance, and the psychological resilience score compared with the control group (all P<0.05). The multiple linear regression analysis results showed that the pre-intervention BPI score, post-intervention changes in mindfulness levels, headache and lower back pain were influencing factors for the improvement of the BPI score in the MBSR group individuals (all P<0.05). Conclusion Conducting MBSR in military units in plateau areas is an effective approach for alleviating chronic pain. The pain relief effect is more pronounced in individuals with higher initial pain scores, a greater increase in mindfulness scores after training, and those with headache and low back pain.
3.Trends in disease burden due to childhood asthma from 1990 to 2021 and future projections in China
Chinese Journal of School Health 2025;46(4):573-578
Objective:
To investigate the trends in disease burden due to childhood asthma in China from 1990 to 2021 and to project the disease burden from 2022 to 2035, so as to provide insights into formulation of the control interventions for childhood asthma in China.
Methods:
The prevalent case, agestandard prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and agestandard DALYs rate of children with asthma at ages of 0 to 14 years and their 95% uncertainty interval (UI) in China from 1990 to 2021 were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. The temporal trends in the disease burden of childhood asthma were evaluated with estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) and its 95% confidence interval (CI), and the disease burden due to asthma was projected among children at ages of 0 to 14 years in China using a Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model from 2022 to 2035.
Results:
There were 9.368 3 million (95%UI=6.410 7 million to 14.026 1 million) prevalent cases of asthma among children at ages of 0 to 14 years in China in 2021, contributing to 0.387 9 million (95%UI=0.216 1 million to 0.668 8 million) DALYs loss. The prevalent cases and DALYs of asthma decreased by 37.28% and 52.55% among children at ages of 0 to 14 years in China in 2021 compared with 1990, and the agestandardized prevalence [EAPC=-0.70%, 95%CI=-1.26% to -0.13%)] and DALY rates [EAPC=-1.71%, 95%CI=-2.32% to -1.10%)] also appeared a tendency towards a decline. From 1990 to 2021, the prevalent cases, prevalence, DALYs and DALYs rate of asthma were all higher among male children than among female children, and the disease burden of asthma was higher among children at ages of 5 to 9 years than at other age groups. BAPC model predicted a decline in both prevalent cases and DALYs of asthma among children at ages of 0 to 14 years in China from 2022 to 2035, with 6.759 6 million prevalent cases and DALYs of 0.228 4 million personyears in 2035, while the prevalence and DALYs rates were projected to rise to 5 143.35/105 and 173.75/105 in 2035.
Conclusions
Despite a reduction in the disease burden of asthma among children at ages of 0 to 14 years in China from 1990 to 2021, the prevalence remained high. The disease burden due to asthma is projected to appear a decline among children at ages of 0 to 14 years in China from 2022 to 2035; however, the prevalence and DALYs rates still rise. Intensified control measures and targeted interventions are required to reduce the disease burden of childhood asthma.
4.Exploration of Zhuyuwan in Treatment of Atherosclerosis from Perspective of Lipid Transport Disorder
Wei SONG ; Zhongyi ZHANG ; Hairong QIU ; Mei ZHAO ; Zubing ZHOU ; Tao SHEN ; Yong ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(13):54-61
This article discusses the key pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS) based on the physiological characteristics and pathological changes of lipids and introduces the therapeutic effect of Zhuyuwan on AS, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases from the spleen. As essential substances, lipids have the same essence but different forms. They circulate throughout the body with body fluids under the action of Yang Qi to nourish the nutrient Qi and support the defensive Qi. Lipid metabolism disorder often leads to the obstruction of Qi movement, the accumulation of dampness and turbidity, and the generation of phlegm and blood stasis. It has been proven that the formation of vulnerable plaques in AS is attributed to the interaction of three pathogenic factors: deficiency of healthy Qi, phlegm-turbidity, and collateral stasis. Their pathological essence is closely related to abnormal lipid metabolism. As lipids constitute the thick and dense components of body fluids, their impaired dispersion may lead to phlegm-turbidity and blood stasis, the pathological process of which is predominantly ascribed to the dysfunction of the spleen in distributing essence. Therefore, AS is rooted in spleen-stomach disorder, manifests as plaques formed by pathological product accumulation in vessels, with lipid transport disorder as its core pathogenesis. Specifically speaking, the dysfunction of spleen in transportation with accumulation of dampness-turbidity marks the initial stage, and blood turbidity and coagulation and phlegm-nodules accumulating in vessels represent the intermediate phase. Cold accumulation and stagnated heat transforming into toxins represent the terminal stage. Zhuyuwan, first recorded in Taiping Holy Prescriptions for Universal Relief, contains equal proportions of Coptidis Rhizoma and Evodiae Fructus. Coptidis Rhizoma, bitter and cold, exerts descending and purging actions to assist stomach Qi in lowering turbidity. Evodiae Fructus, pungent-bitter and hot, disperses obstruction and promotes free flow to support spleen Qi in ascending the clear. The compatibility of Coptidis Rhizoma and Evodiae Fructus ascends the clear and descends the turbid to harmonize Yin and Yang, assisting the spleen in distributing essence and resolving lipid accumulation to reduce lipid levels. In terms of the therapeutic mechanism, Zhuyuwan modulates lipid metabolism by correcting immune-inflammation network imbalance, improving gut microbiota composition and metabolism, and enhancing reverse cholesterol transport. By analyzing the pathological characteristics of lipid transport disorder in AS, this study delves into the intrinsic connections between cardiovascular disease and lipid transport disorder, giving novel insights into the prevention and treatment of AS.
5.Exploration of Zhuyuwan in Treatment of Atherosclerosis from Perspective of Lipid Transport Disorder
Wei SONG ; Zhongyi ZHANG ; Hairong QIU ; Mei ZHAO ; Zubing ZHOU ; Tao SHEN ; Yong ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(13):54-61
This article discusses the key pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS) based on the physiological characteristics and pathological changes of lipids and introduces the therapeutic effect of Zhuyuwan on AS, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases from the spleen. As essential substances, lipids have the same essence but different forms. They circulate throughout the body with body fluids under the action of Yang Qi to nourish the nutrient Qi and support the defensive Qi. Lipid metabolism disorder often leads to the obstruction of Qi movement, the accumulation of dampness and turbidity, and the generation of phlegm and blood stasis. It has been proven that the formation of vulnerable plaques in AS is attributed to the interaction of three pathogenic factors: deficiency of healthy Qi, phlegm-turbidity, and collateral stasis. Their pathological essence is closely related to abnormal lipid metabolism. As lipids constitute the thick and dense components of body fluids, their impaired dispersion may lead to phlegm-turbidity and blood stasis, the pathological process of which is predominantly ascribed to the dysfunction of the spleen in distributing essence. Therefore, AS is rooted in spleen-stomach disorder, manifests as plaques formed by pathological product accumulation in vessels, with lipid transport disorder as its core pathogenesis. Specifically speaking, the dysfunction of spleen in transportation with accumulation of dampness-turbidity marks the initial stage, and blood turbidity and coagulation and phlegm-nodules accumulating in vessels represent the intermediate phase. Cold accumulation and stagnated heat transforming into toxins represent the terminal stage. Zhuyuwan, first recorded in Taiping Holy Prescriptions for Universal Relief, contains equal proportions of Coptidis Rhizoma and Evodiae Fructus. Coptidis Rhizoma, bitter and cold, exerts descending and purging actions to assist stomach Qi in lowering turbidity. Evodiae Fructus, pungent-bitter and hot, disperses obstruction and promotes free flow to support spleen Qi in ascending the clear. The compatibility of Coptidis Rhizoma and Evodiae Fructus ascends the clear and descends the turbid to harmonize Yin and Yang, assisting the spleen in distributing essence and resolving lipid accumulation to reduce lipid levels. In terms of the therapeutic mechanism, Zhuyuwan modulates lipid metabolism by correcting immune-inflammation network imbalance, improving gut microbiota composition and metabolism, and enhancing reverse cholesterol transport. By analyzing the pathological characteristics of lipid transport disorder in AS, this study delves into the intrinsic connections between cardiovascular disease and lipid transport disorder, giving novel insights into the prevention and treatment of AS.
6.Body Composition Profiles and Associated Factors in Adolescents UndergoingLong-term Regular Exercise
Yutong WANG ; Xiaoyuan GUO ; Hanze DU ; Hui PAN ; Wei WANG ; Mei ZHANG ; Bo BAN ; Ping LI ; Xinran ZHANG ; Qiuping ZHANG ; Hongshuang SUN ; Rong LI ; Shi CHEN
Medical Journal of Peking Union Medical College Hospital 2025;16(3):591-597
To investigate body composition and associated factors in adolescents undergoing long-term regular sports training. This prospective longitudinal cohort study employed convenience sampling to recruit adolescents receiving structured athletic training at Jining Sports Training Center in June 2023. Baseline measurements included height, weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, heart rate, waist circumference, and hip circumference. Questionnaires assessed sleep duration, screen time, and household income. Follow-up measurements in June 2024 repeated these assessments while adding bioelectrical impedance analysis for body composition (lean mass, skeletal muscle mass, fat mass, and body fat percentage). Linear regression models examined associations between training type (direct-contact vs. non-contact sports) and follow-up body fat percentage, BMI, and waist circumference as dependent variables, adjusting for covariates. The study included 110 adolescents (39 female, 71 male) with median age 13.21 years (IQR: 12.46-14.33). Participants comprised 65 direct-contact and 45 non-contact athletes. Baseline prevalence rates were 27.27% for overweight/obesity, 24.55% for elevated waist circumference, and 16.36% for elevated blood pressure. At follow-up, corresponding rates were 24.55%, 26.36%, and 13.64% respectively. The elevated blood pressure subgroup showed significantly higher waist circumference ( Despite regular athletic training, substantial proportions of adolescents exhibited overweight/obesity, abdominal obesity, and elevated blood pressure, warranting clinical attention. Training modality appears to influence body composition changes, with direct-contact sports associated with more favorable adiposity-related outcomes.
7.Combined anterior and posterior miniscrews increase apical root resorption of maxillary incisors in protrusion and premolar extraction cases
Zhizun WANG ; Li MEI ; Zhenxing TANG ; Dong WU ; Yue ZHOU ; Ehab A. ABDULGHANI ; Yuan LI ; Wei ZHENG ; Yu LI
The Korean Journal of Orthodontics 2025;55(1):26-36
Objective:
Miniscrews are commonly utilized as temporary anchorage devices (TADs) in cases of maxillary protrusion and premolar extraction. This study aimed to investigate the effects and potential side effects of two conventional miniscrew configurations on the maxillary incisors.
Methods:
Eighty-two adult patients with maxillary dentoalveolar protrusion who had undergone bilateral first premolar extraction were retrospectively divided into three groups: non-TAD, two posterior miniscrews only (P-TADs), and two anterior and two posterior miniscrews combined (AP-TADs). Cone-beam computed tomography was used to evaluate the maxillary central incisors (U1).
Results:
The APTADs group had significantly greater U1 intrusion (1.99 ± 2.37 mm, n = 50) and less retroclination (1.70° ± 8.80°) compared to the P-TADs (–0.07 ± 1.65 mm and 9.45° ± 10.68°, n = 60) and non-TAD group (0.30 ± 1.61 mm and 1.91° ± 9.39°, n = 54).However, the AP-TADs group suffered from significantly greater apical root resorption (ARR) of U1 (2.69 ± 1.38 mm) than the P-TADs (1.63 ± 1.46 mm) and non-TAD group (0.89 ± 0.97 mm). Notably, the incidence of grade IV ARR was 16.6% in the AP-TADs group, significantly higher than the rates observed in the P-TADs (6.7%) and non-TAD (1.9%) groups. Multiple regression analysis revealed that after excluding tooth movement factors, the AP-TADs configuration resulted in an additional 0.5 mm of ARR compared with the P-TADs group.
Conclusions
In cases of maxillary protrusion and premolar extraction, the use of combined anterior and posterior miniscrews enhances incisor intrusion and minimizes torque loss of the maxillary incisors. However, this approach results in more severe ARR, likely due to the increased apical movement and composite force exerted.
9.Parkinsonism in Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy With Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy: Clinical Features and Biomarkers
Chih-Hao CHEN ; Te-Wei WANG ; Yu-Wen CHENG ; Yung-Tsai CHU ; Mei-Fang CHENG ; Ya-Fang CHEN ; Chin-Hsien LIN ; Sung-Chun TANG
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(1):122-127
10.6-Gingerol Induced Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in Glioma Cells via MnSOD and ERK Phosphorylation Modulation
Sher-Wei LIM ; Wei-Chung CHEN ; Huey-Jiun KO ; Yu-Feng SU ; Chieh-Hsin WU ; Fu-Long HUANG ; Chien-Feng LI ; Cheng Yu TSAI
Biomolecules & Therapeutics 2025;33(1):129-142
6-gingerol, a bioactive compound from ginger, has demonstrated promising anticancer properties across various cancer models by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation and invasion. In this study, we explore its mechanisms against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a notably aggressive and treatment-resistant brain tumor. We found that 6-gingerol crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively than curcumin, enhancing its potential as a therapeutic agent for brain tumors. Our experiments show that 6-gingerol reduces cell proliferation and triggers apoptosis in GBM cell lines by disrupting cellular energy homeostasis. This process involves an increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) and a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, primarily due to the downregulation of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). Additionally, 6-gingerol reduces ERK phosphorylation by inhibiting EGFR and RAF, leading to G1 phase cell cycle arrest. These findings indicate that 6-gingerol promotes cell death in GBM cells by modulating MnSOD and ROS levels and arresting the cell cycle through the ERFR-RAF-1/MEK/ ERK signaling pathway, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for GBM and setting the stage for future clinical research.


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