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Rhizoma phragmitis is a common Chinese herbal medicine whose effects are defined as 'clearing heat and fire, promoting fluid production to quench thirst, eliminating irritability, stopping vomiting, and disinhibiting urine'. During the Novel Coronavirus epidemic in 2020, the Weijing Decoction and Wuye Lugen Decoction, with Rhizoma phragmitis as the main herbal component, were included in The Pneumonia Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Infection (Trial Version 5) due to remarkable antiviral effects. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Rhizoma phragmitis has antiviral, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hypoglycemic functions, lowers blood lipids and protects the liver and kidney. This review aims to provide a systematic summary of the botany, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of Rhizoma phragmitis.

KangFuXinYe (KFX), the ethanol extract of the dried whole body of Periplaneta americana, is a well-known important Chinese medicine preparation that has been used to treat digestive diseases such as gastric ulcers for many years in China. However, its therapeutic effect and mechanism are not yet well understood. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the gastro-protective effects of KangFuXinYe (KFX) in indomethacin-induced gastric damage. Rats were randomly divided into six groups as follows: control, treated with indomethacin (35 mg·kg-1), different dosages of KFX (2.57, 5.14 and 10.28 mL·kg-1, respectively) plus indomethacin, and sucralfate (1.71 mL·kg-1) plus indomethacin. After treatment, rat serum, stomach and gastric homogenates were collected for biochemical tests and examination of histopathology firstly. Rat serum was further used for metabolomics analysis to research possible mechanisms. Our results showed that KFX treatment alleviated indomethacin-induced histopathologic damage in rat gastric mucosa. Meanwhile, its treatment significantly increased cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) levels in rat serum and gastric mucosa. Moreover, KFX decreased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels. Nine metabolites were identified which intensities significantly changed in gastric damage rats, including 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, indoxylsulfuric acid, indolelactic acid, 4-hydroxyindole, pantothenic acid, isobutyryl carnitine, 3-methyl-2-oxovaleric acid, sphingosine 1-phosphate, and indometacin. These metabolic deviations came to closer to normal levels after KFX intervention. The results indicate that KFX (10.28 mL·kg-1) exerts protective effects on indomethacin-induced gastric damage by possible mechanisms of action (regulating tryptophan metabolism, protecting the mitochondria, and adjusting lipid metabolism, and reducing excessive indomethacin).

The current study aimed to explore the mechanism of Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction in the treatment of gouty arthritis based on the combination of Vanquish Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography Q Exactive IV Pole-electrostatic field orbital trap high resolution mass spectrometer (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) and network pharmacology. Firstly, UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS was established and applied to separation and identification of the chemical components of GSZD. Then, using network pharmacology analysis to obtain the potential active components and candidate targets underlying the effect of GSZD on gouty arthritis (GA). Through targeted and untargeted analysis, a total of 79 components, including 3 chromones, 26 flavonoids, 10 alkaloids, 10 phenolic acids, 7 nucleosides and nucleobases, and 23 other components, were characterized from GSZD. 11 compounds were considered to potentially key active compounds against GA which may be via interacting with multiple inflammatory factors and multiple inflammatory pathways.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex chronic inflammatory disease that is associated with the aberrant activation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). The extract of Cinnamomi ramulus has been reported to exert alleviates pain, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of Cinnamomi ramulus on RA and explore the underlying mechanisms. Material/methods: TNF-α induced human synoviocyte MH7A cells was performed to evaluate the anti-proliferative and anti-migration effect of Cinnamomi ramulus. The anti-proliferative effect of Cinnamomi ramulus was determined by CCK-8 assay and colony formation assay. Apoptosis was measured by AnnexinV FITC/PI staining and flow cytometry. Cell cycle was evaluated by flow cytometry. The expressions of mitochondrial apoptosis and cell cycle-related molecules, including Bcl-2, Bax, C-Caspase-3, CDC2 and Cycylin B1 were determined by Western blotting. Furthermore, the migration and invasion abilities of MH7A cells were determined using scratch wound healing assay and transwell assay. mRNA expressions of (MMP)-1, -2, & -3, P53, P21 and Cyclin D were determined using qRT-PCR analysis. For qualitative analysis on its chemical components, an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with Q-Exactive MS (QE-MS) was established for rapid separation and structural identification of the constituents in Cinnamomi ramulus. The further computationally study on the relationships between the 9 compounds and the potential target proteins of RA were carried out with molecular docking strategy. Results: Our data demonstrate that Cinnamomi ramulus inhibited proliferation of MH7A cells, induced cell apoptosis, blocked the cell cycle in the G2/M phase and regulated the protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax, C-Caspase-3, CDCD2 and Cyclin B1. Moreover, Cinnamomi ramulus was proven to significantly inhabited migration and invasion of MH7A cells through inhibition of levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, -2, & -3.Cinnamomi ramulus reduced mRNA levels of CDK4 whereas increased the expression of P53, P21 and CyclinD, implying its regulation effects on apoptosis and cell cycle distribution in MH7A cells. The chromatographic profiling of the extract by UPLC-QE-MS/MS analysis showed 9 compounds are the main components. And the molecular docking strategy results showed that the compounds in Cinnamomi ramulus have good affinity with protein crystal, and benzyl cinnamate may be the main active component of Cinnamomi ramulus to induce cell apoptosis and cycle resistance. Conclusions: Cinnamomi ramulus exhibits anti-proliferative and anti-migration effects on MH7A rheumatoid arthritis-derived fibroblast-like synoviocytes through induction of apoptosis & cell arrest and suppression of matrix metalloproteinase.

To establish the spectrum-effect relationship between HPLC fingerprint and free radicals activity scavenging in Guizhi Shaoyao Zhimu Decoction( GSZD),and provide a basis for the quality evaluation and modernization of classical prescriptions. Shimadsu GL-science C18 column( 4. 6 mm×250 mm,5 μm) was used with acetonitrile-0. 1% formic acid solution as the mobile phase for gradient elution. The detective wave length was 254 nm; the column temperature was set at 32 ℃; the injection volume was 20 μL; and the flow rate was 1. 0 m L·min-1.10 batches of primary standard samples of GSZD were detected,and their HPLC fingerprint was established by using the similarity evaluation system for chromatographic fingerprint of traditional Chinese medicine( TCM). The activity of scavenging free radicals was studied by 1,1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine( DPPH) method,and the spectrum-effect relationship was studied by Pearson bivariate correlation analysis. The common mode of GSZD fingerprints was established,and 26 common peaks were marked,with similarities ranging from 0. 929 to 0. 998. Eight of the chromatographic peaks were identified by using the control comparison method: gallic acid,mangiferin,paeoniflorin,glycyrrhizin,asparagus,5-O-methylvisamicin,cinnamic acid,and ammonium glycyrrhetate. Among them,the content changes of No. 14( paeoniside),20,12( mangiferin),13 and 23( cinnamic acid) common peaks were negatively correlated with free radical scavenging activity. The fingerprint showed high precision,repeatability and stability,and the common peaks were well separated,so it can be used for the quality evaluation of GSZD,and could provide reference for further studies on the material basis of GSZD.

Sinomenine, an important isoquinoline from Sinomenium acutum (Menispermaceae), is currently considered as a reliable drug for treating various malignant cancers including breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, gastric cancer, osteosarcoma cervical cancer, and esophageal cancer. The pharmacological mechanisms are probably related to induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. This paper was aimed at reviewing the anticancer potential of sinomenine, which is expected to be beneficial in developing this compound as a candidate drug for cancer therapy. Keywords: Sinomenine, Anticancer, Sinomenium acutum, Traditional Chinese Medicine

5-axis linkage machining has been more and more widely used, but its programming and operation is relatively complicated. Directing at the structural parameters of the blow molds of beverage bottles, this paper proposed strategies for the multi-axis machining technology. And then this paper described the development process of the dedicated post processor of a certain model’s 5-axis linkage machine tool, and the generation of NC code needed by the machine tool, which realizes the multi-axis machining of blow mold.

The Reverse Engineering Technology (RET) is extensively employed in the realm of product designing. In this paper, a Three-coordinate Measuring Machine is utilized first to measure the data points of the rearview mirror of a motorcycle, then under UG modeling environment, surface reconstruction is conducted, and lastly procedures like mold splitting and mold core machining are finished upon exercising the Moldwizard Module of UG software. In short, the application of the RET greatly shortened the period of product designing and manufacturing.

Currently the plastic products are with complex and diverse structures. The putting forward of developing blow molding controller is of great significance speaking from wall thickness control. This article designs the extrusion blow molding controller from two aspects, namely, software system and hardware system, with the aim to achieve the reasonable thickness of controlled parison and improve the products’ competitiveness by greatly reducing consumption of the raw materials.

During the high-speed machining, cutter path of numerical control needs to satisfy the following requirements. There has no colliding among work pieces, fixtures and so on. The cutter path variation cannot too dramatically and the vibration should in the controlled area during the process. Feed speed can modify with path curvature variation and cutting depth need to be equality. This article will analyze and research in the mode of cutter advanced and retreats, cutter movement mode, cutter feed mode and cutter path of corner treatment during the high-speed process programming that could effective optimize cutter path, process efficiency and quality.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Areca catechu L. (Arecaceae), widely distributed in South and Southeast Asia, is a popular traditional herbal medicine that can be chewed for the purpose of dispersing accumulated fluid in the abdominal cavity and killing worms. The present paper aims to provide an up-to-date review on the traditional uses and advances in the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of this plant. Furthermore, the possible trends and a perspective for future research of this plant are also discussed. Materials and methods A literature search was performed on A. catechu based on classic books of herbal medicine, PhD. and MSc. dissertations, government reports, the state and local drug standards, scientific databases including Pubmed, SciFinder, Scopus, the Web of Science, Google Scholar, and others. Various types of information regarding this plant are discussed in corresponding parts of this paper. In addition, perspectives for possible future studies of A. catechu are discussed. Results The seeds of A. catechu (areca nut) have been widely used in clinical practice in China, India and other South and Southeast Asian Countries. Currently, over 59 compounds have been isolated and identified from A. catechu , including alkaloids, tannins, flavones, triterpenes, steroids, and fatty acids. The extracts and compounds isolated from A. catechu have many pharmacological activities. These include antiparasitic effects, anti-depressive effects, anti-fatigue effects, antioxidant effects, antibacterial and antifungal effects, antihypertensive effects, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, anti-allergic effects, the promotion of digestive functions, suppression of platelet aggregation, regulatory effects on blood glucose and lipids, etc . Although arecoline is the primary active constituent of A. catechu , it is also the primary toxic compound. The main toxicities of arecoline are the promotion of oral submucosal fibrosis (OSF) and cytotoxic effects on normal human cells, which involve inducing apoptosis. Conclusion As an important herbal medicine, A. catechu has potential for the treatment of many diseases, especially parasitic diseases, digestive function disorders, and depression. Many traditional uses of A. catechu have now been validated by current investigations. However, further research should be undertaken to investigate the clinical effects, toxic constituents, target organs, and pharmacokinetics and to establish criteria for quality control for A. catechu- derived medications. In addition, it will be interesting to investigate the active macromolecular compounds and active constituents other than alkaloids in both raw and processed products of A. catechu .

To quantitatively evaluate mutual relations of 4 component drugs in anti-HIV action.The effect of TCM four components on cell growth was detected using MTT assay. The antiviral effects of 4 components were observed at the maximal nonvenomous dose. The combination index (CI) value of combined two or four components were calculated using median-effect principle. The mutual relations of two or four components for antiviral actions were assessed using CI.Synergism was dominant in combination of A and B, and the effect was dose-dependent. Antagonism was dominant in combination of C and D, and the effect was dose-dependent. But the combination of A, B, C, and D was synergistic when the inhibition rate was over 10%.Median-effect principle can be used to quantitatively assess the anti-HIV effect of four components.

To explore natural herbs to maintain the bactericidal activity of hydrogen peroxide (H).Eighteen extracts of Chinese herbs were prepared complying with the standard protocol. Each of the solutions was then mixed with 1% H2O2. The mixtures were handled with two approaches: autoclaved daily for one, two or three times; stored at room temperature from one through five years. Then the bactericidal activity were evaluated by assaying the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC25923) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli, ATCC12421) bacteria.While mixed with 1% H2O2, 10 out of 18 kinds of assessed Chinese herbs displayed MBC values at 1:12800 or higher after three times of autoclaving, and 8 of them preserved such level of MBC value after stored at room temperature for three years. Some Chinese herbs, i.e. R. Scutellariae, R. Coptidis, R. Bupleuri, H. Epimedii, C. Phelledendri and F. Chrysanthemi, can significantly maintain the bactericidal activity of diluted H2O2.Certain Chinese herbs can effectively stabilize the bactericidal activity of H2O2 undergoing autoclave or long-term storage. This paper reported a brandnew pharmaceutical function of Chinese herbs and provided experimental data for the potential enhancement of H2O2 usage while its stability level is promoted.

We have performed an analysis of a family with kidney-yang deficiency syndrome (KDS) in order to determine the structural genomic variations through a novel approach designated as “copy number variants” (CNVs). Twelve KDS subjects and three healthy spouses from this family were included in this study. Genomic DNA samples were genotyped utilizing an Affymetrix 100 K single nucleotide polymorphism array, and CNVs were identified by Copy Number Algorithm (CNAT4.0, Affymetrix). Our results demonstrate that 447 deleted and 476 duplicated CNVs are shared among KDS subjects within the family. The homologus ratio of deleted CNVs was as high as 99.78%. One-copy-duplicated CNVs display mid-range homology. For two copies of duplicated CNVs (CNV4), a markedly heterologous ratio was observed. Therefore, with the important exception of CNV4, our data shows that CNVs shared among KDS subjects display typical Mendelian inheritance. A total of 113 genes with established functions were identified from the CNV flanks; significantly enriched genes surrounding CNVs may contribute to certain adaptive benefit. These genes could be classified into categories including: binding and transporter, cell cycle, signal transduction, biogenesis, nerve development, metabolism regulation and immune response. They can also be included into three pathways, that is, signal transduction, metabolic processes and immunological networks. Particularly, the results reported here are consistent with the extensive impairments observed in KDS patients, involving the mass-energy-information-carrying network. In conclusion, this article provides the first set of CNVs from KDS patients that will facilitate our further understanding of the genetic basis of KDS and will allow novel strategies for a rational therapy of this disease.