Chrysanthemum morifolium as a traditional herb: A review of historical development, classification, phytochemistry, pharmacology and application

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In recent years, Chinese herbal medicine has gained more and more recognition in disease prevention and control due to its low toxicity and comprehensive treatment. C. morifolium (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.), as the medicine food homology plant with the bioactivity of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotection and cardiovascular protection, has important therapeutic effects and health benefits for colds, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases and various chronic diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

By reviewing the historical development, classification and distribution of germplasm resources, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and modern application of C. morifolium, the paper provides a reliable basis for the further research and application of chrysanthemum as therapeutic agents and functional additives.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature and information about C. morifolium published in the last ten years were collected from various platforms, including Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and China Knowledge Network.

RESULTS

A comprehensive analysis confirmed that C. morifolium originated in China, and it went through the development process from food and tea to medicine for more than 3000 years. During this period, different cultivars emerged through several breeding techniques and were distributed throughout the world. Moreover, A variety of chemical components such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, volatile oils, and terpenes in chrysanthemum have been proven they possess various pharmacology of anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and prevention of chronic diseases by regulating inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress responses and signaling pathways, which are the essential conditions to play a role in TCM, nutraceuticals and diet.

CONCLUSION

This paper provides a comprehensive review of historical development, classification, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and modern application of C. morifolium. However, future studies should continue to focus on the bioactive compounds and the synergistic mechanism of the "multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway" of chrysanthemum, and it is necessary to develop more innovative products with therapeutic effects.

Rewiring Metabolic Flux in Corynebacterium glutamicum Using a CRISPR/dCpf1-Based Bifunctional Regulation System

Corynebacterium glutamicum, a microorganism classified as generally recognized as safe for use in the industrial production of food raw materials and additives, has encountered challenges in achieving widespread adoption and popularization as microbial cell factories. These obstacles arise from the intricate nature of manipulating metabolic flux through conventional methods, such as gene knockout and enzyme overexpression. To address this challenge, we developed a CRISPR/dCpf1-based bifunctional regulation system to bidirectionally regulate the expression of multiple genes in C. glutamicum. Specifically, through fusing various transcription factors to the C-terminus of dCpf1, the resulting dCpf1-SoxS exhibited both CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) and CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) capabilities in C. glutamicum by altering the binding sites of crRNAs. The bifunctional regulation system was used to fine-tune metabolic flux from shikimic acid (SA) and l-serine biosynthesis, resulting in 27-fold and 10-fold increases in SA and l-serine production, respectively, compared to the original strain. These findings highlight the potential of the CRISPR/dCpf1-based bifunctional regulation system in effectively enhancing the yield of target products in C. glutamicum.

The impact of non-environmental factors on the chemical variation of Radix Scrophulariae

Radix Scrophulariae is a commonly used Chinese herb derived from the dried root of Scrophularia ningpoesis Hemsl. (S. ningpoensis). It is difficult to accurately estimate the dosage of Chinese medicinal materials used in the prescription because of the chemical variation caused by various factors. To analyze the non-environmental factors affecting the chemical variation of Radix Scrophulariae, we planted nine different cultivated varieties of S. ningpoensis in the same plantation. Based on sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP), simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, we found that the materials from the cultivated varieties could be divided into two groups, the Zhejiang group, and the southwest China group. The genetic distance based on molecular data between the two groups was above 0.3882, and the Euclidean distance based on chemical data between the two groups was above 5.312. The correlation analysis between the genetic distance matrix based on SRAP and the Euclidean distance matrix based on 18 HPLC peaks of the whole underground part revealed that the genetic differentiation and chemical variation were positively related, r = 0.7196 (p < 0.05). The genetic background, different part of the roots and the different development of the roots are the three non-environmental factors causing the chemical variation. The coefficient of variation (C.V) of chemical composition of Radix Scrophulariae with different genetic background reached to 93.62 %, the C.V of the chemical composition of Radix Scrophulariae derived from the same variety reached to 64.21 %, the C.V of the chemical composition of Radix Scrophulariae derived from the middle part of the roots of S. ningpoensis from the same variety reached to 45.55 %. The C.V of chemical composition of Radix Scrophulairae produced in the same plantation could be controlled to 38.43 % by using the same variety of roots with the approximate mass derived from the middle part of the roots under 20 g. Our findings provided insights to decrease the chemical variation of Chinese medicinal materials by controlling non-environmental factors.

[Application of retroauricular sulcus incision in the operation of benign tumors in the deep lobe of parotid gland]

Objective: To investigate the application of retroauricular groove incision in the resection of benign tumors in the deep lobe of parotid. Methods: From January 2017 to January 2022, 19 patients (11 males and 8 females, age ranged from 17 to 69 years, with a median age of 48) with benign tumor in the deep lobe of parotid gland underwent parotidectomy through retroauricular sulcus incision in Linyi People's Hospital. Among them, 17 cases with tumor diameter≤4.0 cm underwent simple retroauricular groove incision, and 2 cases were dumbbell type with tumor diameter>4.0 cm on the medial side of mandible protruding into the parapharyngeal space, in which the deep lobe and tumor of parotid gland were resected through retroauricular sulcus incision combined with intraoral incision. Results: Tumors were completely removed through retroauricular sulcus incision in 17 cases, and dumbbell type tumors were removed through retroauricular sulcus incision combined with intraoral incision in 2 cases. Postoperative pathological examinations showed pleomorphic adenoma in 13 cases, basal cell adenoma in 4 cases and Warthin's tumor in 2 cases. Temporary mandibular marginal branch paralysis occurred in 2 patients and returned to normal 3 weeks after operation. All incisions healed in Phase I. By following-up of 1-5 years with a median follow-up time of 3.1 years, none of the patients had Frey syndrome, salivary fistula, other complications and tumor recurrence. The patients and their families were satisfied with the postoperative facial appearances. Conclusion: The retroauricular groove approach can not only preserve the function of parotid superficial lobe and facial nerve, but also has less trauma, less tissue defect and hidden scar. As the advantages of less complication, low recurrence rate and good cosmetic effect, the incision is worthy of clinical application.

Safety and Efficacy Analysis of Patients with Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (ES-SCLC) Treated with SHR-1316 Plus Chemotherapy and Sequential Chest Radiotherapy as First-Line Therapy from a Phase II Trial

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

CAPSTONE-1, a phase 3 trial, showed that SHR-1316 (PD-L1 antibody) combined with standard first-line chemotherapy could prolong overall survival (OS) in patients (pts) with ES-SCLC. The CREST trial reported consolidative thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) of 30 Gy in 10 fractions provided a 10% 2-year OS benefit and more intensive TRT should be investigated in ES-SCLC. In the era of immunotherapy, the role of TRT also needs further exploration. Therefore, we designed this clinical trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of SHR-1316 plus first-line chemotherapy followed by TRT combined with SHR-1316.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Key inclusion criteria were pts aged 18-75 years, with previously untreated histologically or cytologically confirmed ES-SCLC, and an ECOG performance status of 0-1. Eligible pts would receive 4∼6 cycles of SHR-1316 (20mg/kg, D1, q3w) combined with EP/EC (etoposide, 100mg/m2, D1-5, q3w and cisplatin, 75mg/m², D1-3, q3w or carboplatin, AUC = 5, D1, q3w), followed by SHR-1316 combined with TRT (≥3 Gy*10 f or ≥2 Gy*25 f, involved-field irradiation), and then the maintenance therapy with SHR-1316 until disease progression or intolerable adverse events (AEs). The main endpoints included ORR, PFS and safety.

RESULTS

From October 2020 to January 2023, 33 pts received SHR-1316 and sequential consolidative TRT. Among them, 19 pts received high-dose TRT (>3 Gy*10 f or ≥2 Gy*25 f) and 14 pts received low-dose TRT (≤3 Gy*10 f or<2 Gy*25 f). The median age was 62 (range: 38-73). Most pts were male (28, 84.8%), former smokers (22, 66.7%) with an ECOG performance status 1 (32, 97%). Ten (30.3%) pts were diagnosed with brain metastasis and 10 (30.3%) pts had liver metastasis at baseline. At the data cutoff date, 9 pts remained on treatment, the average number of treatment cycles was 9.2. 33 pts had at least one 1 post-treatment tumor assessment. The confirmed ORR and DCR were 90.9% (30/33) and 100% (33/33) in all pts, were 89.5% (17/19) and 100% (19/19) in high-dose TRT group, and were 92.9% (13/14) and 100% (14/14) in low-dose TRT group. The median PFS was 10.2(CI: 5.8∼14.7) months in all pts, was 7 (CI: 3.8∼10.2) months in high-dose TRT group and 10.4 (CI: 8.4∼12.3) months in low-dose TRT group. AEs occurred in 27 (81.8%) pts and grade 3 or 4 AEs occurred in 20 (60.6%) pts. The most common grade 3 or 4 AEs included neutropenia (15, 45.5%), leukopenia (8, 24.2%), lymphocytopenia (5, 15.2%), pneumonia (3, 9.1%), anemia (3, 9.1%) and thrombocytopenia (2, 6.1%).

CONCLUSION

SHR-1316 plus chemotherapy and sequential TRT as first-line therapy for ES-SCLC showed promising efficacy and acceptable safety. There is no significant difference between high-dose and low-dose TRT groups in terms of safety and efficacy according to current data.

Study on the Dynamic Changes of Myocardial Injury Markers in Radiotherapy for Esophageal Carcinoma and Its Correlation with Cardiac Dosimetry

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

It was hypothesized that radiotherapy for esophageal cancer could cause radiation-induced heart damage. To investigate the dynamic changes of myocardial enzyme, high-sensitive troponin T (hs-TnT), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide precursors (PRO-BNP) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) during radiotherapy and six months after radiotherapy for middle and lower thoracic squamous cell carcinoma, and to analyze the correlation between these indicators and dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters of the heart.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 35 patients with thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent radical concurrent chemoradiotherapy were enrolled in the study. Radiation therapy was performed for up to 6 weeks. All patients received Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Total radiation dose was from 50.4Gy to 60 Gy in each patient with a dose of 1.8-2.0 Gy per fraction. Blood samples to determine creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK-MB), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), alpha-hydroxybutyric dehydrogenase (α-HBDH), hs-TnT, PRO-BNP and LVEF were measured before radiotherapy, during (10th -20th fraction), at the end of radiotherapy, 1, 3, 6 months after radiotherapy. The dynamic changes of the above indexes were analyzed. The correlation between the above indexes and the mean heart dose (Dmean), V5-V60 (dose-volume histograms data were recorded in discrete 5Gy dose levels) of the heart in the course of radiotherapy was also analyzed.

RESULTS

The Serum hs-TNT and LVEF show an upward trend during radiotherapy, at the end of radiotherapy and 6 months after radiotherapy for esophageal cancer. The hs-TnT of patients before, during, at the end of radiotherapy and 1, 3, and 6 months after radiotherapy were 7.2pg/ml, 9.1pg/ml, 9.1pg/ml, 9.0pg/ml, 9.4pg/ml, and 8.1pg/ml, respectively (p<0.05). The LVEF were 63.7%, 62.4%, 62.0%, 62.5%, 62.2%, 61.9% respectively (p<0.05). The pro-BNP showed an upward trend during radiotherapy and gradually returned to normal after radiotherapy. The CK and CK-MB showed a downward trend during radiotherapy and 1 month after radiotherapy, and gradually returned to normal 3 months after radiotherapy. Compared with the low dose group (the average dose of heart < 2000cGy), the high dose group (≥2000cGy) had a greater increase in hs-TNT, pro-BNP and LVEF, and a slower recovery time. There was no correlation between the changes of myocardial enzyme, hs-TnT, PRO-BNP, LVEF and the heart mean dose, V5-V60 during radiotherapy (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Cardiac injury induced by concurrent chemoradiotherapy for middle and lower thoracic esophageal cancer can lead to the increase of serum hs-TNT and pro-BNP and the increase of LVEF in the early stage of treatment, and this phenomenon is more obvious in the high-dose group. The hs-TnT and PRO-BNP are sensitive parameters to reflect the heart damage in esophageal cancer radiotherapy, which may provide reference for the heart protection during radiotherapy.

Analysis of genetic and chemical variability of five Curcuma species based on DNA barcoding and HPLC fingerprints

The rhizomes of Curcuma species have a long medicinal history in Asia. In China, Curcuma species mainly be utilized to make pharmaceutical products, including C. phaecocaulis, C. aromatica, C. wenyujin, C. kwangsiensis and C. longa. In this study, twenty-four samples were selected to study the genetic and chemical variability among five Curcuma species. The ITS2 and trnK intron gene fragment were used to identify the five Curcuma species, the differences in chemical composition were computed using the Euclidean distance based on the data of HPLC characteristic peak areas and the content of six key components, and agronomic characteristics were analyzed including morphological and volatile oil characteristics. The ITS2 and trnK intron gene fragment could distinguish the five Curcuma species clearly. The genetic distance between Curcuma species ranged from 0.0085 to 0.0767 based on the data of ITS2 gene sequences with 32 variation sites, and the genetic distance between Curcuma species ranged from 0.0003 to 0.0194 based on the data of trnK intron gene sequences with 39 variation sites. Five Curcuma species showed otherness chemical composition characteristics, with the Euclidean distance ranging from 3.373 to 6.998. The C. longa showed the biggest variation compared with other species, with the Euclidean distance above 6.239. Among the samples of the original plants of Ezhu, the volatile oil yield of W1 was the highest, reached to 105.75 mL per single plant. Among all the samples, J6 showed the highest yield of volatile oil, reached to 149.42 mL per single plant. The results showed that chemical composition similarity of the medicinal plants was the primary proof for the selection of the original plants of the Curcuma medicinal materials. The genetic distance and chemical variability were important references for discovering new medicinal plant resources.

Rapid Prediction of Adulteration Content in Atractylodis rhizoma Based on Data and Image Features Fusions from Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Hyperspectral Imaging Techniques

Atractylodis rhizoma (AR) is an herb and food source with great economic, medicinal, and ecological value. Atractylodes chinensis (DC.) Koidz. (AC) and Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (AL) are its two botanical sources. The commercial fraud of AR adulterated with Atractylodes japonica Koidz. ex Kitam (AJ) frequently occurs in pursuit of higher profit. To quickly determine the content of adulteration in AC and AL powder, two spectroscopic techniques, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and hyperspectral imaging (HSI), were introduced. The partial least squares regression (PLSR) algorithm was selected for predictive modeling of AR adulteration levels. Preprocessing and feature variable extraction were used to optimize the prediction model. Then data and image feature fusions were developed to obtain the best predictive model. The results showed that if only single-spectral techniques were considered, NIRS was more suitable for both tasks than HSI techniques. In addition, by comparing the models built after the data fusion of NIRS and HSI with those built by the single spectrum, we found that the mid-level fusion strategy obtained the best models in both tasks. On this basis, combined with the color-texture features, the prediction ability of the model was further optimized. Among them, for the adulteration level prediction task of AC, the best strategy was combining MLF data (at CARS level) and color-texture features (C-TF), at which time the R2T, RMSET, R2P, and RMSEP were 99.85%, 1.25%, 98.61%, and 5.06%, respectively. For AL, the best approach was combining MLF data (at SPA level) and C-TF, with the highest R2T (99.92%) and R2P (99.00%), as well as the lowest RMSET (1.16%) and RMSEP (2.16%). Therefore, combining data and image features from NIRS and HSI is a potential strategy to predict the adulteration content quickly, non-destructively, and accurately.

Establishment and characterization of an immortalized bovine intestinal epithelial cell line

Primary bovine intestinal epithelial cells (PBIECs) are an important model for studying the molecular and pathogenic mechanisms of diseases affecting the bovine intestine. It is difficult to obtain and grow PBIECs stably, and their short lifespan greatly limits their application. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to create a cell line for exploring the mechanisms of pathogen infection in bovine intestinal epithelial cells in vitro. We isolated and cultured PBIECs and established an immortalized BIEC line by transfecting PBIECs with the pCI-neo-hTERT (human telomerase reverse transcriptase) recombinant plasmid. The immortalized cell line (BIECs-21) retained structure and function similar to that of the PBIECs. The marker proteins characteristic of epithelial cells, cytokeratin 18 (CK18), occludin, zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1), E-cadherin and enterokinase, were all positive in the immortalized cell line, and the cell structure, growth rate, karyotype, serum dependence and contact inhibition were normal. The hTERT gene was successfully transferred into BIECs-21 where it remained stable and was highly expressed. The transport of short-chain fatty acids and glucose uptake by the BIECs-21 was consistent with PBIECs, and we showed that they could be infected with the intestinal parasite, Neospora caninum. The immortalized BIECs-21, which have exceeded 80 passages, were structurally and functionally similar to the primary BIECs and thus provide a valuable research tool for investigating the mechanism of pathogen infection of the bovine intestinal epithelium in vitro.

Evaluation of whitening and antimicrobial activity of two strains of Bletilla striata WT and HL20

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bletilla striata (Thunb.) Reixchb.f. is a perennial herb of the Orchid-aceae Bletilla and have various ethnopharmacological uses. As a traditional astringent hemostatic Chinese herbal medicine, B. striata has been widely used in the treatment of 127 different kinds of hemorrhagic diseases. Moreover, B. striata has been a beauty medicine since ancient times, with the first ancient records dating back to 2000 years ago, traditionally used to removing freckle and smooth the skin. Because of the high content of polysaccharides, which is considered the primary active substance of B. striata and having anti-aging, whitening, and anti-oxidation functions, this is also widely used in the cosmetics industry.

AIM

We screened the germplasm resources of B. striata in the early stage and the superior HL20 strain was obtained. Our research aims to analyze and compare the whitening and antimicrobial activities of different extracts (aqueous extract, ethanol extract, and aqueous extract from ethanol extract filter residue) of the selected superior varieties (HL20) and the control (WT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

L-tyrosine and L-dopa were used as substrates to establish a tyrosinase inhibition system with arbutin as the positive control and the whitening activity was measured by the inhibition rate of TYR-M and TYR-D. Besides, an in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed to assess the antimicrobial activity of the B. striata extracts. In a nutshell, the method of punching diffusion was used to thoroughly examine the effects of three extracts from two strains on the antimicrobial activity of five types of microorganism in cosmetics microbiological testing products. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of different extracts were also assessed.

RESULTS

Results showed that the whitening and antimicrobial properties of the HL20 strain were found to be more potent than those of the WT strain. Compared with the other two extraction methods, the aqueous extract from ethanol extract filter residue of B. striata exhibited better inhibition of tyrosinase activity. The antimicrobial assay manifested that only the ethanol extract of B. striata had an inhibitory effect and had a potent antimicrobial impact on E. faecalis.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we evaluated the pharmacological activity of the pre-selected excellent variety (HL20) in terms of whitening and antimicrobial activity. Our results reveal that the selected strain (HL20) has certain advantages over the control (WT). These characteristics make it a candidate additive for whitening cosmetics. Our study also provides a further contribution to the product application of B. striata in cosmetics and antimicrobial agents and the selected HL20 also lays a foundation for the breeding of superior B. striata varieties.

Simultaneous Confidence Band Approach for Comparison of COVID-19 Case Counts

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was declared to be a global emergency in January of 2020, and everyday life throughout the world was disrupted. Among many questions about COVID-19 that remain unanswered, it is of interest for society to identify whether there is any significant difference in daily case counts between males and females. The daily case count sequences are correlated due to the nature of a contagious disease, and contain a nonlinear trend owing to several unexpected events, such as vaccinations and the appearance of the delta variant. It is possible that these unexpected events have changed the dynamical system that generates data. The classic t-test is not appropriate to analyze such correlated data with a nonconstant trend. This study applies a simultaneous confidence band approach in an attempt to overcome these difficulties; that is, a simultaneous confidence band for the trend of an autoregressive moving-average time series is constructed using B-spline estimation. The proposed method is applied to the daily case count data of seniors of both genders (at least 60 years old) in the State of Ohio from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2022, and the result shows that there is a significant difference at the 95% confidence level between the two gender case counts adjusted for the population sizes.

Two polyamines -responsive WRKY transcription factors from Anoectochilus roxburghii play opposite functions on flower development

Anoectochilus roxburghii is a rare and precious plant with medicinal and healthcare functions. Embryo abortion caused the lack of resources. Polyamine promoted its flowering and stress resistance in our previous study. But the mechanism remains unclear. The WRKY transcription factor family has been linked to a variety of biological processes in plants. In this study, two WRKY TFs (ArWRKY5 and ArWRKY20) of A. roxburghii, which showed significant response to Spd treatment, were identified and functionally analyzed. Tissue specific expression analyzation showed both of them mostly present in the flower. And ArWRKY5 expressed highest in the flower bud stage (-1 Flowering), while ArWRKY20 showed the highest expression in earlier flower bud stage (-2 Flowering) and the expression gradually decreased with flowering. The transcriptional activation activity assay and subcellular localization revealed that ArWRKY5 and ArWRKY20 were located in the nucleus and ArWRKY20 showed transcriptional activity. The heterologous expression of ArWRKY5 in Arabidopsis thaliana showed earlier flowering, while overexpression of ArWRKY20 delayed flowering. But the OE-ArWRKY20 lines had a robust body shape and a very significant increase in the number of rosette leaves. Furthermore, stamens and seed development were positively regulated by these two ArWRKYs. These results indicated that ArWRKY5 and ArWRKY20 not only play opposite roles in the floral development, but also regulate the plant growth and seed development in A. thaliana. But their specific biological functions and mechanism in A. roxburghii need to be investigated further.

Effect of Flowering Stages on the Content of Active Ingredients and Antioxidant Capability of Bletilla striata Flowers

Bletilla striata (Thunb.) Reichb.f. is a perennial herb with abundant active ingredients. Previous research mainly focused on its tubers, however, the study on flowers, especially the variation of active ingredient contents at different flowering stages, was rarely seen. This study analyzed the total phenols, flavonoids, polysaccharides, anthocyanins, and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside content of B. striata flowers which were in cultivated in Herb Garden of Zhejiang A&F University and collected in May, 2019, in order to investigate the changes in active ingredients and antioxidant capacity among different flowering stages (bud, initial, and full bloom). Changes in radical scavenging capability of DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical), ABTS (2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate)), and hydroxy were analyzed. Significant differences in active ingredient content of flowers were detected among different flowering stages. The total phenolic content increased continuously during the entire flowering stage. The contents of total flavonoid, total polysaccharide, and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside reached peaks at the initial blooming stage and then fell as the flowering process continued. The antioxidant activity in initial stage was the highest than in any other flowering stages. Therefore, we conclude that the initial blooming stage is the best harvesting stage of B. striata flowers. This study provides a robust basis for the harvest and utilization of B. striata flowers in food, medical, and cosmetic industries.

Biocontrol: Endophytic bacteria could be crucial to fight soft rot disease in the rare medicinal herb, Anoectochilus roxburghii

Microbial destabilization induced by pathogen infection has severely affected plant quality and output, such as Anoectochilus roxburghii, an economically important herb. Soft rot is the main disease that occurs during A. roxburghii culturing. However, the key members of pathogens and their interplay with non-detrimental microorganisms in diseased plants remain largely unsolved. Here, by utilizing a molecular ecological network approach, the interactions within bacterial communities in endophytic compartments and the surrounding soils during soft rot infection were investigated. Significant differences in bacterial diversity and community composition between healthy and diseased plants were observed, indicating that the endophytic communities were strongly influenced by pathogen invasion. Endophytic stem communities of the diseased plants were primarily derived from roots and the root endophytes were largely derived from rhizosphere soils, which depicts a possible pathogen migration image from soils to roots and finally the stems. Furthermore, interactions among microbial members indicated that pathogen invasion might be aided by positively correlated native microbial members, such as Enterobacter and Microbacterium, who may assist in colonization and multiplication through a mutualistic relationship in roots during the pathogen infection process. Our findings will help open new avenues for developing more accurate strategies for biological control of A. roxburghii bacterial soft rot disease.

A Strategy for Pinpointing Natural Bioactive Components Using Two-Dimensional Bioassay Profilings Combined with Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Countercurrent Chromatography × High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

Inspired by the interpretation of two-dimensional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, an efficient strategy was proposed for pinpointing bioactive components from complex natural products. An off-line comprehensive countercurrent chromatography (CCC) × high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed to achieve a 2D chemical chromatogram, and 2D bioassay profilings were obtained from bioassays of the eluent of the first dimension (¹D) CCC and the eluent of the second dimension (²D) HPLC. Then 2D chemical chromatograms and 2D bioassay profilings were matched for pinpointing bioactive natural components from complex matrices. Thus, bioactive components in a complex matrix could be efficiently analyzed, separated, and bioactivity-determined. This experimental scheme was successfully demonstrated with a traditional medicinal herb Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc. The feasibility of this 2D strategy was verified with tyrosinase inhibition assay, α-glucosidase inhibition assay, DPPH radical scavenging assay, and ABTS^•+ decolorization assay. Eight natural inhibitors were successfully pinpointed and identified from P. cuspidatum. Both pieceid-2″-O-gallate (10) and vanicoside B (20) were screened and identified as natural tyrosinase inhibitors for the first time. Meanwhile, vanicoside B (20) was also found as the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitor among all the isolated components. Most of the compounds exhibited much higher radical scavenging activities. Compared with traditional methodology based on one-dimensional chromatographic separation, the present 2D strategy would be more precise, efficient, and convenient to screen and separate bioactive compounds from complex matrices.

Combined intensive management of fertilization, tillage, and organic material mulching regulate soil bacterial communities and functional capacities by altering soil potassium and pH in a Moso bamboo forest

Intensive management is a common practice in agricultural and forestry ecosystems to improve soil quality and crop yield by influencing nutrient supply and soil microbiota; however, the linkage between soil nutrients and bacterial community and functional capacities in intensively managed economic forests has not been well studied. In this study, we investigated the soil properties such as available potassium (AK), available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), ammonium (NH4+), nitrate (NO3-), organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), bacterial diversity and community composition, potential functions of rhizome roots, and soil microbiota across a chronosequence of intensively managed Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests. Our results demonstrated that the combined intensive management (deep tillage, fertilization, and organic material mulching) in this study caused a significant increase in the concentrations of AK, AN, AP, NH4+, NO3-, OM, TN, and TP (P < 0.05). However, they led to a remarkable decrease in pH (P < 0.05). Such changes lowered the Shannon diversity of the soil and rhizome root microbiota but did not significantly affect the community composition and functional capacity. Soil bacterial community variation was predominantly mediated by soil total potassium (TK) (15.02%), followed by pH (11.29%) and AK (11.13%). We further observed that Nitrospirae accounted for approximately 50% of the variation in soil pH, NO3-, NH4+, and AK, indicating its importance in soil nutrient cycling, especially nitrogen cycling. Accordingly, we propose that the management-induced changes in soil parameters reshaped the bacterial community structure and keystone bacterial assemblage, leading to the differentiation of microbial functions.

[Risk assessment of internal mammary lymph node metastasis and choice of irradiation of internal mammary lymphatic drainage area in breast cancer patients with negative internal breast lymph nodes on imaging]

Objective: To explore the independent risk factors of internal mammary lymph nodes (IMN) metastasis and the risk assessment method of IMN metastasis preoperatively in breast cancer patients with negative IMN in imaging examination, and guide the radiotherapy of IMN in patients with different risk stratification of IMN metastasis. Methods: The clinical and pathological data of 301 breast cancer patients who underwent internal mammary sentinel node biopsy(IM-SLNB) and/or IMN dissection in Shandong Cancer Hospital with negative IMN on CT and/or MRI from January 2010 to October 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. The independent risk factors were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression, and the independent risk factors of IMN metastasis were used to risk stratification. Results: Among the 301 patients, 43 patients had IMN metastasis, and the rate of IMN metastasis was 14.3%. Univariate analysis showed that vascular tumor thrombus, progesterone receptor (PR) expression, T stage and N stage were associated with IMN metastasis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that tumor located in medial quadrant, positive PR and axillary lymph node metastasis were independent risk factors for IMN metastasis. The risk of IMN metastasis was assessed according to the independent risk factors of the patients: low-risk group is including 0 risk factor, medium-risk group is including 1 risk factor, and high-risk group is including 2-3 risk factors. According to this evaluation criteria, 301 patients with breast cancer were divided into low-risk group (with 0 risk factors), medium-risk group (with 1 risk factor) and high-risk group (with 2-3 risk factors). The IMN metastasis rates were 0 (0/34), 4.3% (6/140) and 29.1% (37/127), respectively. Conclusions: The risk stratification of IMN metastasis according to three independent risk factors of IMN metastasis including tumor located in medial quadrant, positive PR and axillary lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients can guide the radiotherapy of IMN in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. For N1 patients, radiotherapy of IMN is strongly recommended when the primary tumor is located in the medial quadrant and/or PR positive.

Structural derivatization strategies of natural phenols by semi-synthesis and total-synthesis

Structural derivatization of natural products has been a continuing and irreplaceable source of novel drug leads. Natural phenols are a broad category of natural products with wide pharmacological activity and have offered plenty of clinical drugs. However, the structural complexity and wide variety of natural phenols leads to the difficulty of structural derivatization. Skeleton analysis indicated most types of natural phenols can be structured by the combination and extension of three common fragments containing phenol, phenylpropanoid and benzoyl. Based on these fragments, the derivatization strategies of natural phenols were unified and comprehensively analyzed in this review. In addition to classical methods, advanced strategies with high selectivity, efficiency and practicality were emphasized. Total synthesis strategies of typical fragments such as stilbenes, chalcones and flavonoids were also covered and analyzed as the supplementary for supporting the diversity-oriented derivatization of natural phenols.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and potential clinical applications of saffron: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Saffron, the dried red stigma of the perennial herb Crocus sativus L. (Iridaceae), is one of the most important and expensive spices in the world. It is used as a traditional Chinese medicine with demonstrated effects in promoting blood circulation and suppressing blood stasis, cooling blood detoxification, and relieving depression. It is mainly used for the treatment of depression, irregular menstruation, postpartum thrombosis, and bruises.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to provide a systematic and up-to-date overview of the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications of saffron. We hope it could provide useful references and guidance for the future directions of research on saffron.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The online database, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, SciFinder and Chemical book, and CNKI were used to collect relevant literature. And the classic books about Chinese herbal medicine were also being referenced.

RESULTS

More than 150 chemical compounds, including carotenoids, flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides, monoterpenes and monoterpenoid derivatives, monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, amino acids, alkaloids and others, were revealed. The pharmacological activities study of saffron were focused on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antidepressant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, memory-enhancing, and so on. Currently, saffron is mainly used for the treatment of diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, depression, anxiety disorders, cardiovascular diseases, learning and memory disorders, cancer, and other conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Phytochemical and pharmacological analyses of saffron have been revealed in recent studies. However, clinical studies have focused mainly on AD, depression and anxiety disorders. Therefore, a large number of clinical trials are needed to study the efficacy of saffron and its major chemical components against other diseases including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cancer. Further studies of the mechanism of action and toxicological properties of saffron are also required, especially research to establish an effective dose of saffron and its long-term toxicity in vivo.

Effects of Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide in diet on growth performance, serum antioxidant capacity, and biochemistry of broilers

In the present study, we analyzed the effects of Glycyrrhiza polysaccharide (GCP) on growth performance, serum antioxidant capacity, and biochemistry of broilers. A total of 600, one-day-old AA broilers randomly divided into 5 treatment groups with 6 replicate pens of 20 birds per cage received dietary supplementation with GCP (0, 200, 500, 1,000, and 1,500 mg/kg) for 42 d. The supplementation of GCP linearly decreased (P < 0.05) feed conversion rate on day 22 to 42. Dietary supplementation with GCP reduced (P < 0.05) serum total cholesterol on day 21 and 42 and linearly improved (P < 0.05) albumin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Dietary supplementation with 1,000 or 1,500 mg/kg GCP significantly increased (P < 0.05) serum total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity on day 21 and 42 and reduced (P < 0.05) serum malondialdehyde content on 21 d. Dietary supplementation with 1,000 or 1,500 mg/kg GCP significantly improved (P < 0.05) interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) expressions in liver on day 21 and 42. At the end of the experiment, we randomly selected 20 broilers from 3 treatment groups (0, 1,000, and 1,500 mg/kg), respectively, to perform an lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute stress experiment. The 60 broilers were divided into 6 treatment groups with 10 birds per cage. The experiment was designed as a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement with GCP (0, 1,000, or 1,500 mg/kg) and LPS (injection of saline or 1 mg/kg body weight) levels as treatments. When the grouping was finished, the broilers were immediately intraperitoneally injected with LPS or normal saline. Six hours after challenged, serum antioxidant and liver immunity were analyzed. The results showed that dietary GCP prevented LPS-induced reductions in T-SOD activity and increases in malonaldehyde content (P < 0.05). Also, dietary GCP supplementation mitigated the LPS-induced increase in IL-1β and IFN-γ in the liver. Supplementation with 1,500 mg/kg GCP showed the most optimal effect in broilers. GCP has the potential to be used as feed additive in broilers.

Efficacy and safety of iguratimod on patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of iguratimod for the treatment of primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) and explore its possible mechanism of action.Method: We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial in 66 pSS patients. Patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive oral iguratimod for 24 weeks or matching placebo. The primary endpoint was the EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI). Secondary endpoints included mental discomfort visual analogue scale (VAS) score, patient global assessment (PGA), EULAR Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI), Schirmer's test values, unstimulated whole salivary flow, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and immunoglobulin G (IgG). The proportions of B cells in peripheral blood and levels of serum B-cell activating factor (BAFF) were measured at baseline and week 24 in the iguratimod group. All adverse events were recorded during the trial period.Results:ESSPRI improved more in the iguratimod than in the placebo group (p = 0.016). Mental discomfort VAS score, PGA, Schirmer's test, ESR, and IgG also improved more in the iguratimod than in the placebo group (all p < 0.05). Adverse events were reported 13.6% of the iguratimod group. Levels of BAFF and proportions of plasma cells in patients decreased significantly after iguratimod treatment. The proportions of peripheral plasma cells had positive correlations with both serum IgG and BAFF.Conclusion: Iguratimod improved some dryness symptoms and disease activity in pSS patients, and reduced the level of BAFF and percentage of plasma cells over 24 weeks. Iguratimod seems to be an effective and safe treatment for pSS.

Expression and prognostic significance of long noncoding RNA AK001796 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Previous study has reported that long noncoding RNA AK001796 (AK001796) functions as a tumor promoter in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, its clinical in ESCC patients remains largely unclear. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prognostic value of AK001796 in ESCC patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The expression levels of AK001796 in ESCC tissues and matched normal tissues were detected by RT-PCR. Association between AK001796 levels and clinicopathological factors was also analyzed by chi-square test. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. The predictors for OS and DFS were assessed by univariate analysis and multivariate analysis using Cox's proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

We found that AK001796 was elevated in human ESCC samples compared with the adjacent normal tissues (p<0.01), and the high level of AK001796 expression was significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis (p=0.032) and advanced UICC stage (p=0.016). Interestingly, Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that patients with high AK001796 expression had a significantly lower OS (p=0.010) and DFS (p=0.001). Moreover, we showed that AK001796 was an independent poor prognostic factor for OS and DFS in ESCC patients through univariate and multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data provide important evidence that AK001796 may be a useful biomarker of advanced progression and poor prognosis of ESCC.

Regulation of flowering time using temperature, photoperiod and spermidine treatments in Anoectochilus roxburghii

This study investigated the effects of different temperatures, photoperiods and spermidine concentrations on the flowering time regulation of Anoectochilus roxburghii by measuring changes in the soluble sugar, soluble protein, malondialdehyde and proline contents, and the peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in A. roxburghii flower buds. The flowering time could be advanced under 25/20 °C (day/night), 16/8-h (day/night) long day conditions or low spermidine concentrations. The plants grew more rapidly and flowering rates were greater. The flowering time could be delayed under a low temperature of 20/15 °C or 8/16-h short day conditions, resulting in a low flowering rate. Under a high temperature of 30/25 °C or high spermidine concentrations, the plants could not flower normally and even died. There were significant differences in the seven measured indices among the various treatments. Thus, different treatments had significant effects on the flowering time regulation and flowering quality of A. roxburghii, providing a reliable theoretical basis for further studies on the flowering-related regulatory mechanisms of A. roxburghii.

Antibacterial and antifungal activities of different polar extracts from Anoectochilus roxburghii

This study evaluates the antibacterial and antifungal activities of petroleum ether, acetic ether, n-butanol and aqueous extracts from Anoectochilus roxburghii. The in vitro antibacterial and antifungal effects against three bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis) and three fungal species (Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) Leonard et Suggs, Botrytis cinerea Pers., Fusahum graminearum Sehw.) were assayed by the dilution and disc-diffusion methods. All of the polar extracts expressed dose-dependent antimicrobial activity against all tested microorganisms. The most active extract was aqueous extract, with a minimum inhibitory concentration below 0.625mg/ml in both bacteria and fungi. The results suggest that new chemical classes of natural antimicrobial substances (such as A. roxiburghii extracts) can be selectively exploited for the chemotherapy and control of infectious diseases.

A review of the application of near-infrared spectroscopy to rare traditional Chinese medicine

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has become popular in the field of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) due to its many practical advantages, such as providing rapid, accurate, and simultaneous analysis. This review is intended to provide up-to-date information on qualitative and quantitative NIRS analysis in TCM, especially rare TCM. By performing a substantial survey of the literature from China and abroad, we also combine our own studies on some rare TCMs using NIRS to review the application of NIRS in this field. Basic analytical methods and specific examples of NIRS demonstrates NIRS's ability in authenticity identification, species identification, geographic origin analysis, quantitative analysis, adulteration detection, rapid detection, and on-line monitoring of TCM, and illustrates the feasibility and effectiveness of NIRS applied in the quality control (QC) of TCM. Some disadvantages and prospects of NIRS are also discussed here in detail.

Bletilla striata: a review of seedling propagation and cultivation modes

In recent years, the domestic and international market demand for Bletilla striata has increased rapidly because of its wide use in medical, pharmaceutical, chemical, health, cosmetology, and other fields. The increased demand and a shortage of wild herbal resources have led to the development of large-scale introduction and cultivation programs. Using our research results and the relevant literature, this paper characterizes the original B. striata plant, as well as seedling propagation techniques and its main cultivation modes, and discusses some problems in the B. striata production process. This work will provide a reference for industry development and the promotion of B. striata.

Regulatory T cells are an important prognostic factor in breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The clinical relevance of regulatory T cell (Treg) infiltration in breast cancer (BC) remains controversial, and no recent meta-analysis has been published on this subject. Our aim was to identify the precise relationship between Tregs and the prognosis and clinic-pathological features of BC. Eligible articles were identified with a MEDLINE database search over a period up to March 2015. Our meta-analysis was performed using STATA software 11.0 and Review Manager 5.3. The correlations between Treg infiltration and clinico-pathological features and BC prognosis were analyzed. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses, as well as meta-regression, were conducted. Eighteen published studies (including 8,562 patients) were eligible. Overall survival (OS) and disease-, recurrence-, and progression-free survival (DFS/RFS/PFS) were correlated with Treg infiltration (OR=2.03 (95% CI, 1.40-2.95; P=0.000) and 1.48 (95% CI, 1.00-2.19; P=0.050), respectively), including 3-, 5-, and 10-year mortality rates. In addition, low Treg infiltration was present in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive tumors (P=0.000), progesterone receptor (PR)-positive tumors (P=0.003), Her2-negative tumors (P=0.000) and histological grade I/II tumors (P=0.001). No publication bias was observed with the exception of OS. Subgroup analysis suggested that the mortality rate of the high Treg infiltration subgroup was increased compared with the low Treg infiltration subgroup among ER-positive patients. Treg infiltration indicated a poorer prognosis for BC and is related to ER, PR, and Her2 status and histological grade. Thus, Treg infiltration could help predict outcomes and guide clinical therapy.

Polyamine Function in Plants: Metabolism, Regulation on Development, and Roles in Abiotic Stress Responses

Polyamines (PAs) are low molecular weight aliphatic nitrogenous bases containing two or more amino groups. They are produced by organisms during metabolism and are present in almost all cells. Because they play important roles in diverse plant growth and developmental processes and in environmental stress responses, they are considered as a new kind of plant biostimulant. With the development of molecular biotechnology techniques, there is increasing evidence that PAs, whether applied exogenously or produced endogenously via genetic engineering, can positively affect plant growth, productivity, and stress tolerance. However, it is still not fully understood how PAs regulate plant growth and stress responses. In this review, we attempt to cover these information gaps and provide a comprehensive and critical assessment of the published literature on the relationships between PAs and plant flowering, embryo development, senescence, and responses to several (mainly abiotic) stresses. The aim of this review is to summarize how PAs improve plants' productivity, and to provide a basis for future research on the mechanism of action of PAs in plant growth and development. Future perspectives for PA research are also suggested.

Rapid detection of adulteration in Anoectochilus roxburghii by near-infrared spectroscopy coupled with chemometric methods

To determine the authenticity of Anoectochilus roxburghii, this study presents an application of near-infrared spectroscopy and chemometric methods for evaluating adulteration of A. roxburghii with two cheaper adulterants, i.e. C. Goodyera schlechtendaliana and Ludisia discolor. Partial least squares discriminant analysis models were built for the accurate classification of authentic A. roxburghii and A. roxburghii adulterated at 5-100% (w/w) levels. Partial least squares regression models were used to predict the level of adulteration in the A. roxburghii. After by compared different spectral pretreatment methods, and using interval PLS and synergy interval PLS for variable selection, optimum models were developed. These results show that the NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometric methods offers a simple, fast, and reliable method for classifying and quantifying the adulteration of A. roxburghii.

[Comparation study of incidental irradiation dose to the internal mammary chain during postmastectomy radiotherapy for patients treated with different irradiation techniques]

Objective: To evaluated the unplanned coverage dose to the internal mammary chain (IMC) in patient treated with postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT). Methods: One hundred and thirty eight patients with breast cancer receiving radiotherapy (RT) in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into three groups: three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) group, forward intensity-modulated radiotherapy (F-IMRT) group and inverse IMRT (I-IMRT) group. The IMC were contoured according to Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) consensus, and were not include into the planning target volume (PTV). The incidental irradiation dose to IMC among the three groups and the first three intercostal spaces IMC (ICS-IMC 1-3) were all compared, and explored the relationship between the mean doses (Dmean) of IMC and the OARs (ipsilateral lung and heart). Results: The dose delivered to IMC showed no difference in CRT, F-IMRT and I-IMRT(33.80 Gy, 29.65 Gy and 32.95 Gy). And 10.42%, 2.04%, and 9.76% patients achieved ≥45 Gy when treated with CRT, F-IMRT and I-IMRT. For the IMC dose in the first three intercostal spaces (ICS1-3), there was no difference to the three treatment plannings. The Dmean, V(20), V(30), V(40) and V(50) of the ICS-IMC2 and ICS-IMC3 were all obviously superior than ICS-IMC1 for all these three plannings. Moderate positive correlation was founded between Dmean for IMC and Dmean for heart for left breast cancer patients underwent CRT (r=0.338, P=0.01). Whereas for F-IMRT and I-IMRT groups, positive correlation were founded between Dmean for IMC and Dmean and V(20) for ipsilateral lung for all patients (F-IMRT: r=0.366, P=0.010; r=0.318, P=0.026; I-IMRT: r=0.427, P=0.005; r=0.411, P=0.008). Conclusions: In 3D-CRT, F-IMRT and I-IMRT planning methods, partial patients get IMC irradiated doses that could achieve therapeutic doses. Compared with 3D-CRT, F-IMRT and I-IMRT further reduced the dose of irradiated organs. However, there is no difference in the dose coverage of IMC for the three planned approaches when the IMC made an unplanned target.

Evaluation of overall survival rate of different therapies in the treatment of T1-T3 prostate cancer: a network meta-analysis

We performed this network meta-analysis (NMA) in order to compare the overall survival rate of six different therapies of T1-T3 prostate cancer (PC). The therapies include radiotherapy (RT), endocrine therapy (ET), Cryoablation (CRYO), radical prostatectomy (RP), RT+ET and RP+ET. Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Web of Science and MEDLINE were searched to collect relevant literature from the inception of the study till February 2017. Cohort studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. A combination of direct and indirect evidence was performed to evaluate the odds ratio (OR) and draw surface under the cumulative ranking curves (SUCRA). Nine eligible cohort studies were included in this NMA, including 20,644 patients suffering from T1-T3 PC. The pairwise meta-analysis revealed that compared with the ET regimen, the RP and RP+ET regimens exhibited comparatively higher overall survival rates (OR = 2.81, 95%CI = 2.09 ~ 3.78; OR = 3.15，95%CI = 1.80 ~ 5.50, respectively). The results of SUCRA values demonstrated that the RP + ET regimen occupied the first place (89.5%) in terms of overall survival rate, and the RP regimen came second (84.83%). Thus, the RP+ET regimen had better efficacy in the treatment of T1-T3 PC in combined-therapeutic regimens, and the RP regimen presented better efficacy in mono-therapeutic regimen. Our findings indicate that the RP+ET regimen had better efficacy on improving the overall survival rate of T1-T3 PC patients, and the RP regimen ranked second.

Rapid determination of crocins in saffron by near-infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometric techniques

Saffron is an expensive spice. Its primary effective constituents are crocin I and II, and the contents of these compounds directly affect the quality and commercial value of saffron. In this study, near-infrared spectroscopy was combined with chemometric techniques for the determination of crocin I and II in saffron. Partial least squares regression models were built for the quantification of crocin I and II. By comparing different spectral ranges and spectral pretreatment methods (no pretreatment, vector normalization, subtract a straight line, multiplicative scatter correction, minimum-maximum normalization, eliminate the constant offset, first derivative, and second derivative), optimum models were developed. The root mean square error of cross-validation values of the best partial least squares models for crocin I and II were 1.40 and 0.30, respectively. The coefficients of determination for crocin I and II were 93.40 and 96.30, respectively. These results show that near-infrared spectroscopy can be combined with chemometric techniques to determine the contents of crocin I and II in saffron quickly and efficiently.

Anoectochilus roxburghii: A review of its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anoectochilus roxburghii (Orchidaceae), also known as Jinxianlian (Simplified Chinese: ) and Jinxianlan (Simplified Chinese: ), is valued in many Asian countries, where this plant species is used for medicinal, culinary, and ornamental purposes. As a food, A. roxburghii is widely used as a treatment booster and medicine because of its various beneficial properties; these include, most notably, the curative effects of heat dissipation and cooling of blood, elimination of dampness, detoxification, and immunity enhancement.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review aims to provide up-to-date information on the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications of A. roxburghii.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant information on A. roxburghii was obtained by an online search of worldwide-accepted scientific databases (Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Elsevier, Springer, NCBI, ACS Publications, CNKI, and Wanfang data).

RESULTS

Phytochemical investigations have revealed that the major chemical constituents of A. roxburghii are polysaccharides, flavonoids, glycosides, organic acids, volatile compounds, steroids, triterpenes, alkaloids, and nucleosides. These compounds have been proven to be the main bioactive substances responsible for pharmacological activities such as antidiabetic, antilipemic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, liver protective, renal protective, immunomodulatory, abirritant, sedative, and antineoplastic effects.

CONCLUSIONS

A variety of dosage forms of A. roxburghii are currently being applied to patients suffering from hyperuricemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic hepatitis B, Helicobacter pylori infection, cough-variant asthma, and other conditions. Nevertheless, further research is needed to clarify A. roxburghii absorption, distribution, metabolic, and excretion pathways. Moreover, the toxicology in A. roxburghii and A. formosanus are also in urgent need of research, especially long-term in vivo chronic toxicity tests need to be carried out.

Butyrate and retinoic acid imprint mucosal-like dendritic cell development synergistically from bone marrow cells

Accumulating data show that the phenotypes and functions of distinctive mucosal dendritic cells (DCs) in the gut are regulated by retinoic acid (RA). Unfortunately, the exact role of butyrate in RA-mediated mucosal DC differentiation has not been elucidated thoroughly to date. Mucosal-like dendritic cell differentiation was completed in vitro by culturing bone marrow cells with growth factors [granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF/interleukin (IL)-4], RA and/or butyrate. The phenotypes, cytokine secretion, immune functions and levels of retinal dehydrogenase of different DCs were detected using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry, respectively. The results showed that RA-induced DCs (RA-DCs) showed mucosal DC properties, including expression of CD103 and gut homing receptor α₄ β₇ , low proinflammatory cytokine secretion and low priming capability to antigen-specific CD4⁺ T cells. Butyrate-treated RA-DCs (Bu-RA-DCs) decreased CD11c, but increased CD103 and α₄ β₇ expression. Moreover, the CD4⁺ T priming capability and the levels of retinal dehydrogenase of RA-DCs were suppressed significantly by butyrate. Thus, butyrate and retinoic acid have different but synergistic regulatory functions on mucosal DC differentiation, indicating that immune homeostasis in the gut depends largely upon RA and butyrate to imprint different mucosal DC subsets, both individually and collectively.

[A comparison of dosimetric variance for external-beam partial breast irradiation using three-dimensional and four-dimensional computed tomography]

Objective: To investigate the potential dosimetric benefits of four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) compared to three-dimensional CT (3DCT) in the planning of radiotherapy for external-beam partial breast irradiation (EB-PBI). Methods: Three-DCT and 4DCT scan sets were acquired for 20 patients who underwent EB-PBI. For each patient a conventional 3D conformal plan (3D-CRT) was generated based on end-inhalation phase (EI). The treatment plan based on the 4DCT EI phase images was copied and applied to the end-exhalation phase (EE) and 3DCT images (defined as EB-PBI(EI), EB-PBI(EE), EB-PBI(3D), respectively). Results: The median volumes of the tumour bed based on 3DCT, EI and EE were 20.99 cm(3,) 19.28 cm(3,) and 18.78 cm(3,) respectively. The tumour bed volume based on 3DCT was significantly greater than that of EI and EE volumes (P<0.05). The planning target volumes (PTV) coverage of EB-PBI(3D), EB-PBI(EI) and EB-PBI(EE) were 96.85%, 97.51%, 97.03%, respectively. The planning target volume (PTV) coverage of EB-PBI(3D) was significantly less than that of EB-PBI(EI) and EB-PBI(EE) (P<0.05). The median homogeneity indexs (HI) based on 3DCT, EI and EE were 0.13, 0.13, 0.13, respectively. The median conformal indexs (CI) based on 3DCT, EI and EE were 0.68, 0.69, 0.68, respectively. The median mean doses (D(mean)) based on 3DCT, EI and EE were 36.20 Gy, 36.20 Gy, 36.22 Gy, respectively. However there were no significant differences in the homogeneity index, conformity index and the mean dose of PTV between the three treatment plans (P>0.05). The EB-PBI(3D) plan resulted in the largest organs at risk dose (P<0.05). Conclusion: There was a significant benefit when using 4DCT to plan 3D-CRT for EB-PBI with regard to reduced non-target organ exposure, and might result in poor dose coverage when the PTV is determined using 3DCT.

Simultaneous Extraction and Identification of Phenolic Compounds in Anoectochilus roxburghii Using Microwave-Assisted Extraction Combined with UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and Their Antioxidant Activities

This study used MAE and RSM to extract phenolic compounds from Anoectochilus roxburghii, and the optimum conditions defined by the model to give an optimum yield of 1.31%. The antioxidant activity in vitro showed when the concentration of phenolic compounds was reached 1 mg mL^-1, the clearance rates were 82.58% for DPPH and 97.62% for ABTS⁺. In vivo antioxidant experiments used D-galactose to build oxidative damage in healthy Kunming mice. The result showed that the extractions of A. roxburghii can improve the antioxidant ability and the medium and low dose groups had better ability to scavenge free radicals. The UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS was developed to identify 21 kinds of phenolic compounds by molecular mass, ms/ms fragmentation, as well as retention time. The result showed that the phenolic compounds of A. roxburghii had significant potential as a natural antioxidant to promote health and to reduce the risk of disease.

Effects of Light Quality on Morphology, Enzyme Activities, and Bioactive Compound Contents in Anoectochilus roxburghii

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of light quality on the morphological traits, leaf anatomical characteristics, antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase) activities, photosynthetic pigments content, and bioactive compounds (phenols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides) content in Anoectochilus roxburghii. Plants of A. roxburghii were grown under light filtered through four differently colored films for 8 months. The four treatments were red film (RF), blue film (BF), yellow film (YF), and colorless plastic film (control, CK). Compared with the A. roxburghii plants in CK, those in the BF treatment showed significantly greater stem diameter, fresh weight, leaf area, stomatal frequency, chlorophyll content (Chl a, Chl b, Chl a+b), antioxidant enzyme activities, and active compound (polysaccharides, flavones) content. The plants in the RF treatment showed the greatest plant height and phenolics contents. These results show that growing A. roxburghii plants under blue film is a useful technique to improve quality. This technique is conducive to achieving large-scale sustainable production of high-quality plant materials.