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ورود به زیرشاخهنقشه موضوعی
جستوجوی دقیقطب سنتی و مکمل
طب ایرانی، مکمل، گیاهان دارویی و مداخلات غیردارویی
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طب مکمل
مقالهها، منابع و پژوهشهای تازه حوزه طب مکمل
ورود به زیرشاخهطب سوزنی
مقالهها، منابع و پژوهشهای تازه حوزه طب سوزنی
ورود به زیرشاخهگیاهان دارویی
مقالهها، منابع و پژوهشهای تازه حوزه گیاهان دارویی
ورود به زیرشاخهطب تلفیقی
مقالهها، منابع و پژوهشهای تازه حوزه طب تلفیقی
ورود به زیرشاخهتازهترین رکوردها
شواهد طب سنتی و مکمل
PubMed2026
[THE RESERVES ENHANCING PUBLIC HEALTH].
In Russia, the population preservation and health promotion are defined as national development goal, and within its framework life expectancy is to increase up to 78 years by 2030. In national normative legal acts considerable attention is paid not only to issues of medical care support but also to importance of making system to maintain and to promote health. In 2025, the WHO adopted the Global strategy of traditional medicine for the period up to 2034. The strategy defines concepts of traditional medicine, complementary medicine and integrative medicine. When considering integrative medicine exactly as comprehensive approach supporting health it is essential to understand whether there are opportunities to improve and to maintain population health. The study permitted to comprehensively analyze indicators both characterizing performance of health care system (financial support and infrastructure conditions) and public health (index of universal health care services coverage; non-communicable disease mortality rate; probability to die at the age from 30 to 70 years from any cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory diseases; and life expectancy at birth) in countries with no application of regulated methods of integrative medicine and in countries with implemented system of integrative medicine. The obtained data testify availability of potential to enhance public health under application of methods of integrative medicine.
PubMed2026
[THE TRADITIONAL AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE IN THE PUBLIC HEALTH SYSTEM OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION: ANALYSIS OF EVIDENCE BASE AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF INTEGRATION].
The article considers placement of methods of traditional and complementary medicine in the public health system of the Russian Federation, focusing on prevention and management of chronic non-communicable diseases. The analysis of the evidence base on key methods of traditional and complementary medicine (acupuncture, phytotherapy, homeopathy, manual therapy, osteopathy) was carried out, including differentiated estimate of level of evidence for forms of homeopathy based on the latest systematic review of meta-analyses. The legal framework of its application in Russia are explored. The corresponding collisions and barriers are identified. The following proposals concerning integrative health care model are formulated: differentiated register of methods, clinical guidelines, pilot integration into compulsory health insurance system and enhancement of research.
PubMed2026
From raw to steamed Panax notoginseng: A systematic review of saponin transformations and their functional consequences.
BACKGROUND: Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma (NRR), derived from Panax notoginseng, serves as both a functional food and a key medicinal material in traditional Chinese medicine. Its bioactivity is largely attributed to saponins, which undergo significant chemical transformations during processing (e.g., steaming), altering its pharmacological profile. OBJECTIVE: This review aims to systematically consolidate experimentally verified metabolites from authenticated NRR, elucidate the chemical transformations induced by processing and clarify the resulting shift in pharmacological effects, thereby providing a scientific basis for its targeted application. METHOD: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using CNKI, Wanfang Data, National Science and Technology Library, the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, PubMed and Web of Science. Keywords included Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen; Pharmacological activities; Phytochemisity; Saponin transformation; Traditional processing; Traditional Chinese medicine. Data were also sourced from classic texts, dissertations and unpublished materials. RESULTS: Processing, particularly steaming, converts high-polarity saponins into less polar ones via deglycosylation, dehydration and hydroxylation. This chemical shift underlies a functional transition: raw NRR primarily promotes blood activation and stasis dispersion, while processed NRR exhibits enhanced blood-nourishing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. CONCLUSION: The integration of ethnopharmacological knowledge with modern scientific perspectives clarifies the metabolite pathways and mechanistic basis for processing-induced changes in NRR. This review provides a reliable foundation for the precise use and further development of NRR in functional foods, nutraceuticals and evidence-based therapy.
PubMed2026
Mesotherapy With Lidocaine and Ketamine in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1: A Randomized Double-Blind Trial.
BACKGROUND: Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS1) is a disabling pain syndrome whose treatment remains challenging. Mesotherapy is a therapeutic method involving the injection of low doses of active substances through the skin. No studies assessed mesotherapy in CRPS1 patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy on pain relief of ketamine and lidocaine mixtures versus lidocaine alone administered by mesotherapy. METHODS: This three-arm, randomized, double-blind trial compared mesotherapy with lidocaine 20 mg alone or mixed with ketamine at a dose of 20 mg or 40 mg, in addition to standard treatment. The primary outcome was the difference in pain between inclusion and D56 after four mesotherapy sessions, assessed by a visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS: Thirty-one patients were randomized to receive lidocaine 20 mg (n = 10), lidocaine 20 mg + ketamine 20 mg (n = 11), or lidocaine 20 mg + ketamine 40 mg (n = 10). The mean difference in VAS score between inclusion and D56 was -25.60 (95% CI: -42.81, -8.39) in the lidocaine 20 mg group, -10.13 (95% CI: -26.24, 5.99) in the lidocaine 20 mg + ketamine 20 mg group, and -19.06 (95% CI: -36.11, -2.02) in the lidocaine 20 mg + ketamine 40 mg group. There was no statistically significant difference in change of VAS score between the 3 groups (p = 0.36). No infectious or severe adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: This study did not demonstrate the superiority of mesotherapy with ketamine and lidocaine mixtures compared to lidocaine alone in relieving pain for CRPS1 patients. Lidocaine alone or mixed with ketamine can be administered safely with a rigorous mesotherapy procedure. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT04650074, and EudraCT, number 2020-005557-24.
PubMed2026
Newborns' brains Detect Foreign Rhythm in Native-language Speech.
Humans begin tuning in to the prosody of their native language even before birth. Previous studies with newborns have reported language-specific processing of forward versus backward speech and of intonational contours, as well as sensitivity to iambic versus trochaic patterns in non-linguistic tone stimuli. The present study investigated newborns' processing of temporal rhythm patterns in naturalistic native-language speech. Czech-learning newborns (N = 44) listened to naturally recorded, well-formed Czech utterances with either native Czech rhythm (lacking prominent acoustic cues to word-level stress) or foreign-accented rhythm (featuring prolonged foot-initial syllables), while their hemodynamic activity was recorded. Results revealed larger hemodynamic responses to native-language speech with foreign rhythm than to native-language speech with native rhythm. This difference was most pronounced in the right hemisphere, indicating right-lateralized processing of speech rhythm differences. Traditional theories of language development have suggested that only broad, between-class rhythm differences among languages are processed at birth. By showing that newborns discriminate between native and foreign rhythmic patterns even when their native language falls outside traditional rhythm classifications, the present findings evidence that gradient temporal cues alone are sufficient for early language discrimination.
PubMed2026
The Global Mode of Experience in Psychodynamic Movement and Dance Therapy - Bodily Awareness as a Therapeutic Factor: Effects and Clinical Considerations.
Bodily awareness has become a central therapeutic factor in psychodynamic and body-oriented psychotherapies, yet its clinical effects and theoretical status remain insufficiently integrated. This paper offers a clinically grounded account of bodily awareness work in Psychodynamic Movement and Dance Therapy (PMT), conceptualising the body as the primary medium of lived experience rather than as an object of intervention. Drawing on phenomenology, developmental psychoanalysis, and clinical theory, the paper argues that therapeutic change in PMT unfolds through prereflective, embodied processes that precede verbal reflection and symbolic articulation. To integrate these perspectives, it introduces the concept of the global mode of experience, defined as an amodal, prereflective organisation of experience in which bodily sensation and affective vitality are lived as an integrated whole. Rooted in Daniel Stern's work, this mode is understood as a stable, activatable capacity rather than a regressive state, with orientation to the reality of the here-and-now fundamentally preserved. The paper positions the global mode of experience as a clinically orienting framework for understanding both the therapeutic effects and the limitations of bodily awareness work, highlighting the importance of timing, containment, and indication in psychodynamic movement and dance therapy. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(3): 141-154)
PubMed2026
Electroacupuncture Treatment on Sarcopenia in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Haemodialysis: An Effective Therapy.
BACKGROUND: Electroacupuncture (EA) treatment has been utilized for recovery from neuromuscular-related diseases and may play a significant role in the treatment of sarcopenia. This interventional, randomized controlled clinical study aims to explore the efficacy of EA treatment in maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) patients with sarcopenia. METHODS: Thirty-six participants with sarcopenia undergoing MHD were randomly divided into the control group and the EA group. The participants in the EA group received a total of 24 treatments, each lasting 30 min, and were administered three times per week. Participants in the control group were instructed to continue their current lifestyle and treatment plans. The assessments were conducted at baseline and after 8 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) adjusted according to gender and baseline values. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess EA effects, reporting main effects and the time × group interaction with partial eta squared (η2p) effect sizes. The primary outcome was 6-m gait speed; the secondary outcomes were skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) and handgrip strength. Fasting blood samples were collected, and serum metabolomics using the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method was employed to reveal metabolic changes. RESULTS: One participant from the EA group dropped out, and 35 participants were included in the analysis, aged (59.06 ± 11.69) years, including 22 men and 13 women. After intervention, the 6-m gait speed of the EA group increased (Δ = 0.10 ± 0.08; p < 0.001), whereas that of the control group decreased (Δ = -0.06 ± 0.09; p = 0.018). The handgrip strength of the EA group increased (Δ = 0.68 ± 0.98; p = 0.011), whereas that of the control group decreased (Δ = -0.76 ± 1.19; p = 0.015). The SMI in the EA group increased (Δ = 0.19 ± 0.22; p = 0.003), although there was no significant difference in the control group. No serious adverse events were observed during the EA treatment. The results of serum metabolomics indicated that a total of 127 differentially expressed metabolites were identified (p < 0.05, VIP > 1), including 35 up-regulated metabolites and 92 down-regulated metabolites. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that glycerophospholipid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism and other pathways related to lipid metabolism were significantly changed. CONCLUSIONS: EA treatment was an effective therapy for sarcopenia in patients undergoing MHD. Its therapeutic effect may be related to the positive regulation of systemic metabolism (including amino acid and lipid profiles).
PubMed2026
[Micronutrients and phytotherapy in the response to stress].
Introduction: micronutrients fulfil essential functions as cofactors and regulators of the metabolic pathways involved in the response to stress. When present in appropriate quantities, they help to maintain neuroendocrine and immune homeostasis in situations of high physiological demand. Adaptogens can normalize biological functions and strengthen systems affected by stress, protecting the organism against psychological and environmental insults. Objectives: to evaluate the bidirectional relationship between micronutrients and stress, with emphasis on the role of adaptogens. Methods: we reviewed the literature and selected relevant studies, mainly randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Results: there is a bidirectional association between stress and micronutrient status: stress affects nutritional status via multiple mechanisms, including increased demand, reduced intake and absorption, and changes in eating habits. This could lead to micronutrient deficiency, which, in turn, compromises the body's response to stress. Conclusions: stress can exhaust our supply of specific micronutrients, and even slight deficiencies can affect energy metabolism, leading to tiredness, mental and physical fatigue, and a reduced ability to adapt to stress. Adaptogens can strengthen resistance to stress and prevent stress from becoming chronic. Supplementation with B vitamins and magnesium, together with vegetable extracts such as rhodiola and melissa, has proven beneficial in reducing stress and improving mood and well-being, with additional effects on energy and fatigue.
PubMed2026
Accuracy of Kampo Diagnostic Support System: Comparison With Certified Physicians of the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine.
OBJECTIVE: Japanese Traditional (Kampo) Medicine (JTM) relies on traditional diagnostic patterns (sho). However, half of Japanese physicians do not consider Kampo patterns when prescribing, increasing the risk of improper use and adverse events. This study evaluated the accuracy and challenges of KAMPO365, a diagnostic support system for JTM, by comparing its outputs with diagnoses and prescriptions by certified physicians of the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine. METHODS: Twenty outpatients at two hospitals participated by inputting clinical data into KAMPO365, which generated Kampo pattern diagnoses and formula recommendations. Specialists, blinded to KAMPO365 outputs, conducted independent diagnoses and prescribed five candidate Kampo formulas. RESULTS: The results showed a 35% concordance rate between KAMPO365-recommended formulas and specialists' selections, with higher agreement in pharmacological classification (45%). Concordance rates for diagnostic patterns were 55% for deficiency/excess and 65% for cold/heat. For qi, blood, and fluid disturbance patterns, fluid retention had the highest concordance (75%), while qi counter flow and blood deficiency had the lowest (30%). CONCLUSION: KAMPO365 demonstrated potential in aiding non-specialists, though improvements in diagnostic algorithms and the coverage of Kampo formulas are needed. Despite its limitations, this study suggests the potential utility of KAMPO365 for diagnosing Kampo patterns and providing precise prescriptions.
PubMed2026
Quantitative indices reveal the importance of medicinal plants in traditional healthcare from rural arid region.
In the present study, quantitative ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants utilized by the local communities for treating different human ailments in selected rural villages of Punjab, Pakistan has been documented. Semi-structured interviews and field surveys were employed to conduct field investigations from March 2024 to April 2025, with a total of 105 informants aged 18-70 years. The total number of plant species recorded and reported for the cure of 14 human ailments was 50 belonging to 25 families. Fabaceae was the dominant family with 6 species, among the documented families. The most abundant life form was herbs (26 species) and the most common part used was leaves (16 species). The highest Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC = 0.34) was found in Bombax ceiba, Cenchrus echinatus and Sonchus oleraceus. Spinacia oleracea had the highest Use Value (UV = 0.08) while the lowest UV was 0.03. Mentha canadensis recorded the highest Fidelity Level (FL = 93%) for the treatment of hyperacidity and diarrhea whereas Azadirachta indica recorded the lowest FL (69%) in the treatment of scabies and pimples. Three species recorded the highest FC (36) while three other species recorded the lowest FC (24). The results showed a high diversity of medicinal plants in the study area and significant traditional ethnobotanical knowledge. There were not enough up-to-date health care facilities in rural areas, so local residents heavily depended on the use of medicinal plants for basic health care. The study emphasized the need to maintain the knowledge of the indigenous people and conserve medicinal plants resources for sustainable use and future exploration in medicine.
PubMed2026
Formulation development and preclinical assessment of ethyl acetate fraction of Saraca asoca (EASA) flowers for cataract management.
BACKGROUND: Cataract is the leading cause of reversible blindness globally. Current treatment options are limited to surgical intervention, highlighting the need for pharmacological alternatives. The primary objective of this study was to develop an ocular formulation containing the ethyl acetate fraction of Saraca asoca (EASA) flowers and to evaluate the anti-cataract activity using in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models. METHODS: The EASA extract was characterized and analyzed by chromatographic techniques for the presence of phytoconstituents and the extract was formulated into an eye drop at 5 mg/mL. A comprehensive preclinical study evaluated the safety and efficacy of an ophthalmic formulation. Studies included in vitro antioxidant assays, in vitro irritation potential, ex vivo goat lens cataract model, in vivo ocular safety, in vivo diabetes, and UV-induced cataract models, affecting physiological enzymes and lens opacity. RESULTS: Chromatographic analysis confirmed the presence of gallic acid, apigenin, and quercetin as key biomarkers from the EASA extract. The eye drop formulation produced a HET-CAM score of 0.5 (non-irritant) and the rabbit test showed no eye irritation up to 24 h. No abnormality or toxicity was observed after 28 days of ocular instillation. EASA exhibited significant antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS, FRAP assays and inhibited aldose reductase activity. Ex vivo studies of EASA demonstrated remarkable protection against lens opacification and in vivo treatment with EASA formulation preserved lens clarity compared to the negative control, while restoring endogenous antioxidants GSH, SOD and CAT to levels approaching those of normal controls. CONCLUSION: Developed EASA eye drop formulation is non-irritant, ocularly safe, and displays potent antioxidant and aldose reductase inhibitory effects. EASA formulation significantly prevented and mitigated diabetes and UV-induced cataracts in preclinical models, supporting its potential as a non-invasive therapeutic option for cataract and ocular health management.
PubMed2026
A single-blind randomized controlled trial of ultrasound-guided Canggui Tanxue needling technique for contractural facial synkinesis.
BACKGROUND: Facial spastic synkinesis (FSS) is a disabling sequela of facial nerve palsy, with current treatments limited by transient efficacy, severe side effects, poor precision, and lack of quantifiable targets/objective evaluation. This study used ultrasound shear wave elastography combined with Canggui Tanxue needling to precisely locate lesioned muscles, exploring a safer, more effective targeted strategy to address the gap of insufficient precision and quantitative evidence in clinical practice. METHODS: A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital's Acupuncture Department (June 2022 to May 2023), enrolling 64 FSS patients randomized into an ultrasound-guided group (n = 31) and a control group (n = 33). The former received Canggui Tanxue needling at hypertonic muscles (Young modulus > 10 kPa) under real-time shear wave elastography, the latter received traditional syndrome differentiation-based acupuncture. Both groups had 6 sessions (twice weekly for 3 weeks). Outcome measures included primary (Young modulus of target muscles) and secondary (House-Brackmann grading, Facial Disability Index, and total effective rate) indicators. SPSS 26.0 was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 64 patients aged 27 to 66 years were enrolled, including 25 males (39.06%) and 39 females (60.94%). Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups (P > .05). Post-intervention, the ultrasound-guided group had significantly larger reductions in Young modulus of depressor anguli oris (3.00 vs 1.10 kPa) and levator labii superioris (5.60 vs 1.00 kPa) versus controls (P < .001). It also showed superior facial nerve recovery (House-Brackmann grading: P = .013), a higher total effective rate (87.1% vs 42.4%, P < .001), and greater improvement in physical function scores (74.84 ± 8.42 vs 68.94 ± 13.68, P = .04). Psychosocial function scores decreased in both groups (P = .92). Only 2 mild subcutaneous hematomas occurred in the ultrasound-guided group, confirming good safety. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided Canggui Tanxue needling precisely targets hypertonic muscles, reduces pathological tension, improves FSS patients' facial function, and is safe, offering an effective targeted strategy. Clinical promotion of this precise acupuncture technology is recommended, especially for late-stage facial nerve palsy patients with abnormal muscle tension. Future studies should extend follow-up to assess long-term efficacy/recurrence and combine neurophysiological/multimodal imaging to clarify its mechanism.
PubMed2026
Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Acupuncture on Bone and Lipid Metabolism in a Rat Model of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis.
This study investigated the effects of acupuncture on bone and lipid metabolism in a rat model of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). Thirty-two female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups: blank control, sham-operated, model (ovariectomy), and acupuncture treatment (ovariectomy plus acupuncture). Following treatment, bone mineral density (BMD), bone tissue morphological changes with quantitative histomorphometry, serum bone metabolism markers, estradiol (E2) levels at multiple time points, body mass index (BMI), blood lipid indicators, inflammatory factors, and gut microbiota composition were measured in each group. Acupuncture increased femoral BMD after adjusting for femoral shaft thickness (P<0.05) and improved trabecular bone structure, with significant rises in trabecular number, thickness, and bone volume fraction (P<0.05). Serum osteoprotegerin levels increased and osteoclast markers decreased. Serial E2 measurements showed progressive restoration from week 4. Acupuncture reduced BMI (P<0.05), with BMI changes negatively correlating with BMD improvements (r=-0.68, P<0.01). Lipid metabolism and inflammatory markers were significantly improved (P<0.05). Gut microbiota analysis indicated increased abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and decreased pathogenic bacteria (P<0.05). Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry suggested acupuncture may promote osteogenic differentiation via upregulation of the cAMP-PKA-CREB pathway. Overall, acupuncture effectively enhances bone and lipid metabolism in PMOP rats through hormonal regulation, metabolic modulation, and gut microbiota optimization. Key words Acupuncture " Postmenopausal osteoporosis " Bone metabolism " Lipid metabolism " Estradiol " Gut microbiota " cAMP-PKA-CREB pathway.
PubMed2026
Elucidating the mechanism of Buyang Huanwu Decoction in the treatment of ischemic stroke: A network pharmacology and molecular docking study.
A large number of functional disorders and uncomfortable symptoms often remain following ischemic stroke (IS). Existing drug therapy is not ideal for the direct improvement of symptoms, which often leads to poor patient compliance with physical rehabilitation therapy. Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD) is a famous prescription that is effective in treating IS, especially during the sequela stage of IS. We analyzed the therapeutic mechanism of BYHWD through network pharmacology. This study aims to investigate the potential active ingredients, targets, and signaling pathways of BYHWD for the treatment of IS, utilizing network pharmacology and molecular docking technology. The active ingredients of 7 Chinese herbs in BYHWD were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology and HERB databases, and IS-related disease targets were searched in the DisGeNET, GeneCards, and OMIM databases. The protein-protein interaction network was constructed using the STRING database and analyzed by Cytoscape 3.10.2 software. Additionally, the target genes were uploaded to the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery website for Gene Ontology alongside Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses. With the assistance of AutoDockTools and PyMOL software (Schrödinger, Inc.), a validation of molecular docking results and a visualization of the results were performed. The results showed that there were 190 intersection targets between the active drug components and IS, corresponding to 61 active components, among which the top 5 target genes were tumor suppressor protein 53, Jun proto-oncogene, AKT serine/threonine kinase 1, mitogen-activated protein kinase 1, and estrogen receptor alpha. The PI3K-Akt signaling pathway is one of the top 10 pathways. The molecular docking results indicated that most of the top 5 targets had good affinities for the 8 core compounds. This computational analysis suggests that BYHWD may treat IS through multiple targets and pathways. It may play a neuroprotective role by regulating the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and vascular endothelial homeostasis. The identification of core effective components provides a theoretical foundation and candidate compounds for further investigation into new drugs for the treatment of sequelae after IS.
PubMed2026
Metabolomic analyses of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, muscle cramps, and TJ-68 treatment.
INTRODUCTION: Most patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal motor neuron disease, experience painful muscle cramps. Our recent pilot trial of the Japanese Kampo medicine TJ-68 suggested its efficacy in improving muscle cramps in patients with ALS. OBJECTIVES: This study analyzed plasma metabolomic changes to identify the underlying mechanisms of muscle cramps in ALS and the effects of TJ-68. METHODS: Plasma was obtained from 11 participants with ALS in the repeated crossover trial at five time points (baseline, two placebo phases, and two TJ-68 phases). Metabolites were analyzed using mass spectrometry. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to identify metabolite changes associated with muscle cramps, determine the effects of TJ-68 on metabolites, and predict which participants would respond to TJ-68. RESULTS: Higher glutamine/glutamate, arginine, and leucine levels were associated with more severe muscle cramps. TJ-68 treatment increased tryptophan and aconitate levels but reduced serotonin and acetylcarnitine levels. Long-chain acylcarnitine levels were correlated with muscle cramp severity, and their levels tended to decrease with treatment. Uric acid, β-aminoisobutyric acid, α-aminoadipic acid, and acetylcholine emerged as predictors of the efficacy of TJ-68. CONCLUSION: This study identified the metabolite profile of muscle cramps in ALS and the changes in metabolite levels after TJ-68 treatment. Several baseline metabolites were associated with the prediction of the response to muscle cramps following TJ-68 treatment. Uric acid might be particularly useful because of its easy measurement in standard assays. Our study affirms the value of metabolomic technology for future pharmacotherapy and studies in ALS.
PubMed2026
Prevalence, practices, and maternal perceptions of traditional uvulectomy among sudanese children and adolescents: A community-based cross-sectional study.
BACKGROUND: Traditional uvulectomy (TU) is the removal of the uvula, either partially or totally, by the traditional healer. It is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, driven by cultural beliefs and perceived therapeutic benefits, despite the risks of complications such as bleeding, infections, and death, and limited data exist. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence and practice of traditional uvulectomy among Sudanese children and adolescents, along with maternal perceptions, and identify associated risk factors. METHOD: A descriptive community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January and April 2025 across more than ten states on mothers of children and adolescents (≤18 years). Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a validated structured questionnaire to assess the socio-demographics, TU perception regarding TU, practice pattern, and reported complications. A convenience sampling technique was used. Statistical analyses were performed using R software, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 1,135 mothers of children and adolescents (≤18 years) were interviewed face-to-face. The overall prevalence of TU was 15%, with higher rates among children <6 years (16%) and adolescents aged 12-18 years (17%). Maternal belief in TU varied significantly by child age (p < 0.001). Commonly cited reasons included breastfeeding difficulties (18%), cultural tradition (16%), and failure to thrive (13%). Mothers (45%) and grandmothers (41%) were the primary decision-makers, while traditional healers performed 55% of procedures, frequently using unsterilized instruments. Reported complications included fever (35%), feeding difficulties (21%), and bleeding (13%). TU practice was significantly associated with younger maternal age, lower educational attainment, higher parity, and strong adherence to tribal traditions (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Traditional uvulectomy remains prevalent in Sudan due to deeply rooted cultural beliefs, intergenerational influence, and gaps in healthcare access. Targeted, culturally sensitive interventions engaging tribal leaders, grandmothers, and traditional healers, alongside improved health education and service accessibility, are essential to reduce associated child health risks.
PubMed2026
Spatial metabolomics in medicinal plant research: current advances, technical challenges, and future perspectives.
Secondary metabolites derived from medicinal plants represent a critical resource for drug discovery and play an indispensable role in the prevention and treatment of major human diseases. Spatial metabolomics has emerged as a transformative approach that overcomes the inherent limitations of traditional metabolomics, particularly tissue homogenisation, by enabling precise, in situ profiling of the spatial heterogeneity and dynamic accumulation of key bioactive compounds. When integrated with complementary technologies such as spatial multi-omics (SMO), single-cell analysis, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted imaging, this paradigm provides a powerful framework for deciphering the spatiotemporal regulatory networks that govern secondary metabolite biosynthesis. This review systematically compares conventional and spatial metabolomics, synthesises recent advances in medicinal plant research, critically evaluates current technical challenges and optimisation strategies, and outlines future directions enabled by multi-omics integration and intelligent computational analytics. Collectively, these insights aim to establish a theoretical foundation for the in-depth investigation of medicinal plants and to support their translational application and industrial advancement.
PubMed2026
Bicaudal‑C1 in Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies Integrating Chinese and Western Medicine.
Bicaudal-C homolog 1 (BICC1) is an essential RNA-binding protein that plays a significant role in cellular signaling and gene expression regulation. Recent research has linked the BICC1 gene to the initiation and advancement of tumors. Current investigations primarily aim to elucidate its structural characteristics and functional roles, while its precise involvement in tumorigenesis and its viability as a therapeutic target are still being explored. This review delves into the structure and functions of BICC1, emphasizing its participation in tumor cell growth, programmed cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), blood vessel formation, maintenance of stem cells, and chemoresistance. Furthermore, it examines progress in developing drugs that target BICC1 for cancer therapy and evaluates the potential advantages of traditional Chinese medicine in mediating anti-tumor effects through BICC1 modulation, offering perspectives for future targeted treatment strategies.
PubMed2026
Engineering Multi-Scale Transdermal Delivery Systems for Atopic Dermatitis: Emerging Insights from the Gut-Skin Axis.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin disease, for which traditional treatments are constrained by limited efficacy, high relapse rates, and poor long-term safety. The gut-skin axis has emerged as a critical regulatory network linking intestinal homeostasis and skin health, and is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to the onset and progression of AD. It plays a multifaceted regulatory role in maintaining immune homeostasis, reconstructing barrier functions, and mediating microbial metabolite signaling. Within this conceptual framework, this review summarizes recent advances in multi-scale transdermal delivery strategies for AD. It particularly emphasizes the unique value of multi-scale transdermal delivery strategies of active components in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in immune balance and barrier repair. Building on this, we highlight the integrated innovation of modern delivery technologies, emphasizing the unique advantages of multiscale transdermal systems in regulating the skin barrier, improving active components bioavailability, and modulating cross-compartment biological signaling. Importantly, while emerging studies suggest potential interactions between transdermal delivery systems and gut-skin axis-related pathways, experimentally validated evidence directly linking multi-scale transdermal systems with gut-skin axis regulation remains limited. Therefore, this review also critically discusses current knowledge gaps and highlights the need for further mechanistic and experimental validation. Unlike prior reviews centered on single mechanisms or delivery methods, this work provides a structured overview of active components, intestinal-cutaneous communication, and multi-scale delivery technologies, and proposes a conceptual framework for their potential integration. This perspective aims to support future experimental efforts toward establishing a mechanistically validated link between advanced transdermal systems and gut-skin axis regulation, facilitating the translation of TCM-derived bioactive compounds combined with advanced delivery platforms for AD treatment.
PubMed2026
Herbal and functional food phytochemicals in chronic disease: modulating oxidative stress and health outcomes.
Oxidative stress, described as an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant systems, has an important pathogenic role in many chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, stroke, and neurodegeneration. This narrative review investigates the effect of common herbal medicines and functional foods in oxidative stress, based on available experimental and clinical data. Curcuma longa, Emblica officinalis, Zingiber officinale, berries, and leafy vegetables, which contain bioactive molecules like polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids, have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties through activation of Nrf2 and NF-κB signalling pathways. The important findings from this review suggest that curcumin and gingerol possess anticancer properties via the regulation of p53, MAPK, and ROS-JNK pathways, which induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Moreover, these bioactive compounds improve mitochondrial dysfunction and redox status in cardiovascular diseases. Bacosides and withanolides can be used for neuroprotection by preventing oxidative injury and protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases. The antioxidant-rich herbs and functional foods may have promising roles in oxidative stress-related disorders as preventative and supportive treatment options; however, further research is needed to establish their efficacy and safety in patients.
PubMed2026
Bridging gaps in community cancer care: exploring Traditional Health Practitioners' perceptions of common adult cancer and their role in raising community awareness and early detection in Soweto, South Africa.
BACKGROUND: Despite the rising cancer burden in Soweto, South Africa and the recognized role of Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) in the pluralistic health system, their role in cancer care remains underexplored. This study provides novel insights into THPs' understanding of cancer and their potential contribution to community awareness and early detection within complex sociocultural and health system contexts. OBJECTIVE: To explore THPs perceptions of cancer and the factors influencing their role in community cancer awareness and early detection in Soweto. METHODS: An exploratory qualitative design was adopted. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit 13 THPs in Soweto. Each participated in two in-depth interviews. Data were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed using Dedoose. RESULTS: Seven of the 13 THPs had encountered clients with cancer-related symptoms. The THPs described navigating cancer care with mixed certainty, drawing on experiential, spiritual, and limited biomedical knowledge. They often referred clients to biomedical facilities when symptoms appeared serious or unclear. Participants saw themselves as accessible community figures, offering psychosocial support and helping patients navigate the health system. While motivated to contribute to cancer awareness and early detection, they reported challenges related to limited recognition and legitimacy within the formal health sector. CONCLUSION: Traditional Health Practitioners play an informal but important intermediary role in community cancer care in Soweto. Their contributions are shaped by knowledge gaps, social dynamics, and systemic barriers. Strengthening their role in early detection requires interventions that improve training, build trust in biomedical services, and support integration within the health system.
PubMed2026
Daucosterol linoleate from sweet potato inhibits breast cancer metastasis via SCD1 downregulation and suppression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
Breast cancer remains a significant clinical challenge, with treatment failure and patient mortality primarily attributable to tumor metastasis. Daucosterol linoleate (DL) was previously isolated from sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas). Using HPLC analysis of ten commercial dried sweet potato products from different regions of China, DL was detected in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 1.24 mg to 6.05 mg per 100 g, confirming its widespread presence in commercially processed sweet potato products. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed that DL exhibited a peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of 1452.28 ng/mL, an elimination half-life (t1/2) of 11.14 h, and a mean residence time (MRT) of 9.62 h, supporting its potential for oral administration. DL significantly suppressed proliferation and migration of MCF-7, 4T1, and MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro and reduced lung metastasis in vivo. Proteomic analysis identified SCD1 as a key molecule mediating the effects of DL. Mechanistically, DL downregulated SCD1 to inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as evidenced by decreased expression of N-Cadherin, MMP2, Vimentin, and Snail, alongside increased E-Cadherin expression. Collectively, DL inhibits breast cancer metastasis by downregulating SCD1 and suppressing EMT, supporting its dual potential as a functional food ingredient and adjuvant therapeutic.
PubMed2026
Deep fused explainable neural architecture for the automatic recognition of therapeutic medicinal plants.
BACKGROUND: Medicinal plants have been utilized for centuries for their beneficial properties and significant impact on traditional medical systems worldwide. Indian medicinal plants and their therapeutic properties have recently gained increased attention from the global healthcare community. Accurate identification and classification of medicinal plants ensure proper therapeutic applications. However, botanists manually identify these plants, which is subjective, labor-intensive, and time-consuming. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study is to develop an accurate and automated classification of these medicinal plants for diverse applications such as conservation initiatives, quality assurance, and the formulation of novel herbal treatments. METHODS: A Deep Fused Explainable Neural Architecture termed MedPlantNet is proposed for robust recognition of medicinal plant leaves. The deep discriminative features are extracted from the medicinal plant images using a fine-tuned Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN). A customized Support Vector Machine is developed to efficiently classify these extracted deep features. To enhance model interpretability, a meta-visualization framework incorporating Grad-CAM and Occlusion Sensitivity visualization is implemented to identify the regions of the image that contribute to the classification decisions. We utilized the Mendeley benchmark Medicinal plant leaf database with 30 classes to train and evaluate the model. RESULTS: To assess the effectiveness of the proposed model, accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and AUC are calculated. The proposed system outperforms existing state-of-the-art (SOTA) algorithms for medicinal plant classification, achieving an optimal maximum validation accuracy of 99.87% and AUC of 1. To further validate the generalizability external validation was performed on Bangladeshi medicinal plant dataset and MedLeaves dataset where the proposed model MedPlantNet attained 99.27% and 99.80% validation accuracy respectively. CONCLUSION: MedPlantNet provides an automatic framework for medicinal plant identification based on deep feature extraction, classification and explainable visualization techniques. The results obtained indicate its potential utility in supporting biodiversity conservation, quality assurance and herbal medicine research.
PubMed2026
Electroacupuncture attenuates anesthesia/surgery-induced cognitive impairment in aged rats by inhibiting IL-17A mediated hippocampal synaptic dysfunction via the ERK/CREB signaling pathway.
Electroacupuncture (EA) has been identified as an effective intervention for mitigating postoperative cognitive dysfunction in the elderly; however, its underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood. This study aimed to elucidate the neuroprotective effects of EA on anesthesia/surgery-induced cognitive impairment in aged rats through a combination of behavioral testing, RNA sequencing analysis, Golgi-Cox staining, dendritic spine analysis, Sholl analysis, immunofluorescence assays, and western blot analysis. The findings demonstrated that EA ameliorates anesthesia/surgery-induced cognitive decline by inhibiting hippocampal synaptic dysfunction, with a notable enrichment in the downregulation of IL-17A signaling and upregulation of ERK signaling. Furthermore, the study confirmed that an exogenous increase in IL-17A expression can induce hippocampal synaptic dysfunction and partially negate the neuroprotective effects of EA by inhibiting the expression of the ERK/CREB signaling pathway. In conclusion, EA attenuates anesthesia/surgery-induced cognitive impairment in aged rats by inhibiting IL-17A-mediated hippocampal synaptic dysfunction via the ERK/CREB signaling pathway.
PubMed2026
Functionalism versus the structuralist tradition.
I contrast Singh's subjective functionalism with structuralist-related approaches in anthropology, where "attractors" are not isolated packages of beliefs and practices but robust relationships between such packages within cultural systems. While impressive in its synthesis, Singh's account falls short of explaining a defining feature of human culture: its holistic nature. I use shamanism as an illustrative example.
PubMed2026
Integrative Management of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), affecting 3%-8% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms during the luteal phase, primarily driven by neuroendocrine sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations and dysregulation of central neurotransmitter systems. Genetic predisposition and environmental stressors contribute to its onset. Although conventional treatments such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and hormonal therapies offer symptom relief, they are often accompanied by adverse effects and limited long-term efficacy. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) posits that the core pathogenesis of PMDD lies in the dysfunction of liver's conveyance and dispersion, which may consistent with modern biological research evidence. TCM approaches, represented by Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture, may alleviate symptoms of PMDD by targeting and modulating its core modern pathogenic mechanisms. With its few side effects and the unique advantage of individualized treatment based on syndrome differentiation, TCM holds the potential to become a mainstream therapeutic option for PMDD. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from clinical trials, animal and pharmacological studies to explore the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of TCM in the treatment of PMDD and compares these approaches with conventional therapies. Nonetheless, the integration of TCM into mainstream practice for PMDD is still hampered by challenges such as insufficient evidence-based medical data. Research in TCM focusing on biomarker identification, establishment of standardized treatment protocols, and refinement of efficacy evaluation systems is expected to drive its evolution into a mainstream treatment option for PMDD.
PubMed2026
Mapping family involvement in music therapy for children and adolescents with cancer: a scoping review.
Children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment, along with their families, experience psychological and emotional distress. Music therapy is increasingly acknowledged as an intervention that may foster emotion regulation, coping, and communication; however, family involvement remains insufficiently delineated. This scoping review maps evidence on family involvement in music therapy for paediatric oncology, characterises the forms and intensity of participation, summarises intervention features and reported outcomes, and identifies limitations and research gaps. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in PSYNDEX, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, and Embase (2010-2025). Studies were eligible if they examined music therapy interventions or structured music-therapy-based interventions in paediatric oncology and involved family members at any level of participation. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were synthesised descriptively. Across the studies, reported outcomes included reductions in anxiety, stress, and pain, as well as improvements in mood, quality of life, and family interaction. Family involvement ranged from primarily observational and reflective roles to direct participation in shared music-making and, in some cases, therapist-guided parent-led facilitation. Interaction-focused and parent-directed approaches were most often described as supporting emotional connectedness, shared coping, and family resilience. Methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and inconsistent conceptualisations of family involvement limited comparability. The reviewed literature suggests that family involvement in music therapy may support psychosocial well-being and relational functioning within paediatric oncology. However, the available evidence is heterogeneous and primarily descriptive. Future research would benefit from clearer conceptualisations of family involvement and more methodologically comparable studies to clarify mechanisms of change and long-term effects.
PubMed2026
Review of Peptic Ulcer Disease: Insights from Pathophysiology, Mechanisms, Pharmacotherapy, Phytotherapy, and Case Reports.
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a significant global health concern associated with substantial morbidity. The primary etiologies include Helicobacter pylori infection and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), both of which impair gastric mucosal defense mechanisms. This review aims to provide an updated overview of the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and current management strategies of PUD, including emerging therapeutic developments. Advances in diagnostic modalities, such as endoscopy and imaging, have improved early detection and clinical outcomes. Current management focuses on H. pylori eradication, gastric acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and prevention of complications. Recent advances in peptic ulcer therapy include the introduction of potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs), which provide rapid and potent acid suppression and may serve as an effective alternative to PPIs in selected patients. In cases of bleeding ulcers, endoscopic therapy combined with high-dose PPI administration remains the standard of care. Case reports from multiple countries demonstrate a wide clinical spectrum, ranging from mild dyspepsia to severe complications such as perforation and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Common risk factors include chronic NSAID use, smoking, anticoagulant therapy, and persistent H. pylori infection. Diagnosis is established through laboratory evaluation, imaging, and endoscopy, while treatment ranges from pharmacological therapy to emergency surgical intervention in severe cases. Most patients show favourable outcomes with timely management, although mortality may still occur in complicated conditions. Emerging challenges, particularly antibiotic resistance, have led to the adoption of tailored therapeutic strategies based on antimicrobial susceptibility testing. In addition, novel approaches, including phytotherapy, are being explored as potential adjuncts. An individualized and evidence-based approach is therefore essential to optimize clinical outcomes in patients with PUD.
PubMed2026
Peer-delivered combined EMD and imagery rescripting for traumatized Chinese university students: a RCT.
Background: Evidence-based trauma interventions are predominantly developed in and for WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) populations. In non-Western higher education settings, implementing these therapies is heavily hindered by severe shortages of mental health professionals and culturally rooted stigma against authority figures. Exploring scalable, context-sensitive models like task-sharing is crucial for global mental health equity.Objective: This study evaluated the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of a peer-delivered integrated intervention - combining Eye Movement Desensitization (EMD) and Imagery Rescripting (IR) - for traumatised Chinese university students.Method: In a randomised controlled trial (RCT) with an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, 95 students with moderate post-traumatic stress were randomised to a peer-delivered EMD + IR group, a standalone IR group, or a care-as-usual (CAU) control. Outcomes (depression, anxiety, self-efficacy, resilience) were assessed across four 50-minute peer-led sessions at baseline, post-intervention, and one-month follow-up. Traumatic memory characteristics were monitored, and post-trial qualitative interviews were conducted to understand therapeutic mechanisms and the peer-led experience.Results: Both interventions showed improvements over time. While Group × Time interactions for depression, anxiety, and self-efficacy were non-significant, the EMD + IR group demonstrated superior stability in maintaining resilience gains at follow-up, whereas the standalone IR group showed a significant decline. Mediation analysis revealed resilience gains were driven by a multi-dimensional restructuring of traumatic memories (reduced vividness, arousal, and negative beliefs). Qualitatively, EMD provided a 'sensory-affective buffer' for clients and an operational 'safety net' for novices. The egalitarian peer identity dismantled hierarchical stigma, while robust supervision ensured provider safety.Conclusions: Task-sharing EMD + IR via trained peers is a feasible, culturally congruent strategy. This phased model offers a safe, destigmatizing pathway for accelerating symptom relief and fostering sustainable post-traumatic growth.This trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400090611).
PubMed2026
A multi-functional microneedle patch loaded with mupirocin and L-arginine nanoparticles for enhancing antibacterial activity, anti-inflammation and diabetic wound healing.
Chronic wounds pose notable clinical challenges due to persistent infection, inflammation, and impaired tissue regeneration. We designed a multi-functional microneedle patch (MR-NPs-MNs) comprising chitosan-based microneedles encapsulating PLGA nanoparticles co-loaded with mupirocin and L-arginine. As a key component, L-arginine significantly enhances anti-inflammatory effects by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and effectively promotes tissue repair by regulating oxidative stress and facilitating angiogenesis. The PLGA nanoparticles MR-NPs exhibited stable physical properties (181.7 ± 5.875 nm particle size, 22.4 ± 0.529 mV zeta potential) and were incorporated into microneedles capable of withstanding 40.38 N compression. Notably, MR-NPs-MNs outperformed conventional mupirocin ointment, achieving a 99.82 ± 0.15% antibacterial rate (vs. 90.69 ± 1.11% for the ointment), superior biofilm inhibition (96.82 ± 0.83% and 77.8 ± 5.32%), and enhanced transdermal drug delivery. In vitro, MR-NPs-MNs increased NO production, reduced TNF-α, IL-6 and ROS levels, and promoted wound healing. In diabetic wound models, MR-NPs-MNs increased the healing rate by 1.54-fold, significantly reduced bacterial counts (P < 0.01) by day 9, and improved key healing parameters including collagen matrix reorganization, robust neovascularization, and functional tissue formation. With its biocompatible components, this system provides a potential local therapeutic platform for infected diabetic wound treatment.