Notes

Curc-mPEG454, a new PEGylated curcumin by-product, like a multi-target anti-fibrotic prodrug.
OBJECTIVE To investigate the fecal microbiota changes in patients with spleen (Pi)-deficiency (SPD), a common Chinese medicine syndrome with digestive and absorptive disturbances and to provide insight into the relationship between Chinese medicine syndrome and gut dysbiosis. METHODS Fecal microbiotas from the stool samples of 53 SPD patients and 35 healthy subjects were analyzed via 16S rRNA gene polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-denaturation gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). SPD-related marker genes from 20 SPD patients and 20 healthy subjects were identified through gene sequencing, while some genes were quantified using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Discriminant analysis was conducted using SPSS software, and the canonical discriminant function formula for Pi-deficiency was established. RESULTS Alterations in microbiota diversity and composition between the SPD and healthy groups were demonstrated via 16S rRNA gene PCR-DGGE combined with multivariate statistical analysis. Fecal microbiota changes were also observed among different SPD-subtype patients. Eight SPD-related markers were found, and putative species corresponding to these markers were identified through gene sequencing, which may have potential associations with the common digestive dysfunctions in SPD patients. qPCR methods were established for two of these markers, which were significantly altered in the SPD patients. The canonical discriminant function formula was calculated for SPD, and the validity rates of these markers were over 85%. CONCLUSION Fecal microbiotas are altered in patients with SPD, which may provide insight for further studies on clinically diagnosing and treating SPD. The results may also provide data to gain a better understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine syndrome and gut dysbiosis.OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of acupressure on postpartum low back pain (LBP), salivary cortisol, physical limitations, and postpartum depression. METHODS Participants were 70 postpartum women who were randomly assigned to either an intervention (n = 35) or a control (n = 35) group. The intervention group received 10 acupressure sessions (1 session per day, 5 d per week). The control group received 10 sham acupressure sessions. Outcomes were assessed using a visual analogue scale (LBP intensity), salivary cortisol values (LBP biomarker), and Chinese versions of the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (daily activity limitations), Oswestry Disability Index (physical activity limitations), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (postpartum depression). RESULTS Participants in the intervention group had significantly lower levels of LBP intensity, daily activity limitations, physical activity limitations, and postpartum depression than those in the control group. There was no significant between-group difference in salivary cortisol. CONCLUSION Acupressure may reduce postpartum LBP intensity and limitations in daily and physical activity, and alleviate postpartum depressive symptoms. Acupressure should be offered in postpartum care settings as an alternative treatment for postpartum women with LBP.OBJECTIVE To investigate the effectiveness of electroacupuncture at Jiaji acupoints (EX-B 2) plus moxibustion and intermediate frequency on postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). METHODS A total of 140 outpatients who satisfied the inclusion criteria and volunteered for this treatment were randomly divided into treatment (n = 70) and control (n = 70) groups. Both groups received a localized lesion area and electroacupuncture treatment combined with moxibustion and intermediate frequency. The treatment group (TG) increased acupuncture at Jiaji acupoints (EX-B 2) and electroacupuncture. Pain and anxiety were assessed before and after 5, 10, 15, and 20 treatments by using visual pain simulation score (VAS) and Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA), respectively. Clinical efficacy was also evaluated. RESULTS The baseline between the two groups did not significantly differ (P > 0.05). The VAS and HAMA scores of the two groups after treatment significantly decreased compared with those of various treatment stages (P > 0.05). The HAMA score (P less then 0.01) of TG was lower than that of the control group (CG). The VAS score of TG was lower than that of CG in the 5th and 10th treatments (P less then 0.01). EVT801 ic50 In the 15th and 10th scores, CG was also superior to TG (P less then 0.05). CONCLUSION The combined treatment of electroacupuncture at Jiaji acupoints (EX-B 2), moxibustion, and intermediate frequency can relieve the pain and anxiety symptoms of PHN. The efficacy of the combined treatment was superior to traditional acupuncture.OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of traditional Chinese herbal Xinglouchengqi (XLCQ) decoction for the treatment of constipation in acute ischemic stroke patients, and figure out the role that bowel movements play in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. METHODS A total of 317 eligible patients were recruited and randomized to the XLCQ group (211 patients) or the control group (106 patients). In addition to conventional standard medical care and rehabilitation, participants in the XLCQ group received XLCQ decoction, while the control group received clysis therapy using glycerin enemas or lactulose oral solution. Both groups were given treatment for 3 to 6 d, during which they received daily visits to record defecation features and accompanying symptoms. Neurological assessments using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) were conducted before and 1 month after treatment. RESULTS Patients in the XLCQ group had lower aggregate constipation scores compared with the control group on days 3 and 5 (P less then 0.05). Spontaneous bowel movements tended to reappear more rapidly after taking the XLCQ decoction than after conventional laxative treatment. Both the average aggregate constipation score and the time taken to achieve spontaneous bowel movements showed positive correlations with NIHSS scores before and 1 month after treatment (P less then 0.01). CONCLUSION Treatment with XLCQ decoction effectively alleviated the overall symptoms of constipation in acute ischemic stroke patients. The status of bowel movements in acute ischemic stroke can reflect the severity of neurological impairment and predict neurological outcomes at 1 month.
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