Exploring the potential of omics technologies in medicinal plant research: a review in Colombia / Explorando el potencial de las tecnologías ómicas en la investigación de plantas medicinales: una revisión en Colombia

This review presents advances in the implementation of high - throughput se quencing and its application to the knowledge of medicinal plants. We conducted a bibliographic search of papers published in PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and analyzed the obtained data using VOSviewer (versi on 1.6.19). Given that medicinal plants are a source of specialized metabolites with immense therapeutic values and important pharmacological properties, plant researchers around the world have turned their attention toward them and have begun to examine t hem widely. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have reduced cost and time demands and accelerated medicinal plant research. Such research leverages full genome sequencing, as well as RNA (ribonucleic acid) sequencing and the analysis of the transcr iptome, to identify molecular markers of species and functional genes that control key biological traits, as well as to understand the biosynthetic pathways of bioactive metabolites and regulatory mechanisms of environmental responses. As such, the omics ( e.g., transcriptomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and genomics, among others) have been widely applied within the study of medicinal plants, although their usage in Colombia is still few and, in some areas, scarce. (185)

El extracto de cloroformo (CE) y las fracciones obtenidas de las raíces de Aldama arenaria se evaluaron para determinar su actividad antiproliferativa in vitro contra 10 líneas ce lulares tumorales humanas [leucemia (K - 562), mama (MCF - 7), ovario que expresa un fenotipo resistente a múltiples fármacos (NCI/ADR - RES), melanoma (UACC - 62), pulmón (NCI - H460), próstata (PC - 3), colon (HT29), ovario (OVCAR - 3), glioma (U251) y riñón (786 - 0)]. CE presentó actividad antiproliferativa débil a moderada (log GI 50 medio 1.07), mientras que las fracciones 3 y 4, enriquecidas con diterpenos de tipo pimarane [ent - pimara - 8 (14), ácido 15 - dien - 19 - oico y ent - 8(14),15 - pimaradien - 3 ß - ol], presentaron activid ad moderada a potente para la mayoría de las líneas celulares, con un log GI 50 medio de 0.62 y 0.59, respectivamente. Los resultados mostraron una acción antiproliferativa in vitro prometedora de las muestras obtenidas de A. arenaria , con los mejores resul tados para NCI/ADR - RES, HT29 y OVCAR - 3, y valores de TGI que van desde 5.95 a 28.71 µg.mL - 1, demostrando que los compuestos de esta clase pueden ser prototipos potenciales para el descubrimiento de nuevos agentes terapéuticos

Dialogue of knowledge in traditional herbal medicine in Mé'pháá and Tu'un savi indigenous peoples in the mountain of Guerrero Mexico / Diálogo de saberes en la medicina tradicional herbolaria en pueblos indígenas Mé'pháá y Tu'un savi en la Montaña de Guerrero, México

In the indigenous peoples Tu'un savi and Mé'pháá of the mountain region of guerrero, allopathic medicine and traditional herbal medicine are used, due to this, we consider that dialogues of knowledge should be established between the practitioners of both medicines. We collaborated with 46 individuals to discuss the forms of using medicinal species, preparing treatments, and using allopathic medicine. Through semi-structured and in-depthinterviews, 121 plant species were recorded, with which more than 40 diseases are treated, which are distributed in the digestive, muscular, respiratory, and urinary systems:chronic-degenerative and cultural diseases. The dialogue of knowledge between specialists in traditional medicine and allopathic doctors could contribute to the development of their own health project, with which a regional ethnodevelopment plan could be created.

En los pueblos indígenas Tu'un savi y Mé'pháá de la montaña de Guerrero se utiliza la medicina alopática y la medicina tradicional herbolaria, debido a ello, consideramos que deberían establecerse diálogos de saberes entre los practicantes de ambas medicinas. Se trabajó con 46 colaboradores, con los cuales se dialogó acerca de las formas de uso de las especies medicinales, preparación de los tratamientos y utilización de l a medicina alopática. A través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y a profundidad se registraron 121 especies de plantas, con las que se tratan más de 40 enfermedades, las cuales están distribuidas en los sistemas digestivo, respiratorio y urinario; también se atienden enfermedades crónico - degenerativas y culturales. El diálogo de saberes entre especialistas de la medicina tradicional y médicos alópatas podría contribuir a la elaboración de un proyecto de salud propio, con el cual se podría crear un plan de e tnodesarrollo regional

The Benefit of Garlic from Islamic Perspective and Malay Practise / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

@#Garlic is one of the herbs used as a flavor in food. But it is also known as traditional medicine among the Malay community. However, the scientific observation about the benefits of garlic, especially from the Islamic perspective has not been fully documented. Thus, in this research, we aim to unravel the remedies of garlic and its uniqueness from the Islamic perspective and explain the efficacy and uses of garlic in treating diseases practiced by the Malay community. The findings show that garlic as a traditional medicine has been used since time immemorial and has been proven to bring many good effects in curing diseases such as helping to lower body pressure, reduce the risk of cancer, eliminate bad breath and many more. The findings also show different beliefs, races, and cultures are among the factors in different ways of using garlic as a medicine. However, this study will focus more on Malay practitioners. In this research, descriptive analysis is used and involves many types of text such as Al-Qur’an, Hadith Nabawi, and selected Malay manuscripts on Malay traditional medicine to study the remedies of garlic and its practice among Malay practitioners. This study is important to increase the understanding and knowledge about the benefit of garlic in medicine as a cure rather than just using it as a flavor in food.

Pratiques de prise en charge de l'hypertension artérielle au Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire d' Abomey-Calavi au Bénin / NA

L'hypertension artérielle est une maladie à forte progression reste un problème de santé publique. Mais, les pratiques de sa prise en charge se heurtent à différents obstacles. Cette recherche questionne les problèmes qui caractérisent les pratiques de prise en charge de l'hypertension artérielle au Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire d'Abomey-Calavi au Bénin. Pour y parvenir, nous avons opté pour une analyse basée sur les méthodes quantitatives et qualitatives. L'échantillon est constitué de 130 personnes enquêtées. De l'analyse des résultats collectés, des difficultés éprouvées entre patients et agents de santé dans la prise en charge de l'hypertension artérielle, se caractérise par le manque de relation soignant-soigné. De même, 90% des enquêtés estiment avoir peu de ressources humaines qualifiées et du faible pouvoir d'achat des patients pour faire face aux coûts élevés du traitement de l'hypertension (86,75%). Ainsi, le manque de plateau technique et les frais de consultations spécialisées posent problèmes y compris les suivis de l'éducation hygiéno-diététique. Cet état de fait compromet les pratiques de prise en charge et les formations globales que le système soin est supposé assurer aux usagers qui le fréquentent. Ces résultats suggèrent l'urgence de formations pour le renforcement des capacités pour repérer la précarité et la réorganisation des mesures de prise en charge de l' hypertension artérielle dans le périmètre sanitaire béninois.

Arterial hypertension remains a rapidly growing public health problem. However, management practices face a number of obstacles. This research questions the problems that characterize arterial hypertension management practices at the Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire d'Abomey-Calavi in Benin. To achieve this, we opted for an analysis based on quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample consisted of 130 respondents. From the analysis of the results collected, of the difficulties experienced between patients and health workers in the management of arterial hypertension, most of those surveyed claimed to have a complexity that characterizes the training of health workers. Similarly, 90% of respondents felt that they had few non-cardiologist practitioners, and that patients had little purchasing power to meet the high costs of treating hypertension (86.75%). As a result, the cost of specialized consultations and complementary examinations poses a problem, including follow-up health and diet education. This state of affairs compromises management practices and the comprehensive training that the healthcare system is supposed to provide for its users. These results suggest the urgent need for training to identify precariousness, and the reorganization of hypertension management measures within the Beninese health perimeter.

Prácticas y creencias con el uso de plantas medicinales en lactantes de San Andrés Isla

Introducción: El uso de plantas medicinales es parte de la cultura tradicional de muchas poblaciones alrededor del mundo, se utilizan para prevenir enfermedades y preservar la salud de los individuos, siendo un conocimiento que conservan las madres y abuelas para el cuidado de la primera infancia. Sin embargo, existen muchos vacíos en la investigación con respecto al uso y propiedades de plantas medicinales en lactantes y población general. Objetivo: Analizar y describir las prácticas y creencias con el uso ancestral de plantas medicinales en lactantes de la comunidad raizal en San Andrés Isla. Materiales y métodos: Estudio cualitativo descriptivo etnográfico aplicado a una muestra por conveniencia de ocho abuelas de la comunidad Raizal de San Andrés Isla. Se realizó la descripción y el análisis de las ideas, prácticas sociales, comportamientos, creencias, significados y conocimientos en torno al uso de plantas medicinales en lactantes. Resultados: Aún se conservan los conocimientos ancestrales con el uso de plantas medicinales liderado por las abuelas. El uso de plantas medicinales en lactantes se rige únicamente por la necesidad de manejo de situaciones de salud. En esta investigación se encontraron 23 ejemplares de plantas medicinales de uso en lactantes, de estas son pocas las que se encuentran registradas en el vademécum colombiano de plantas medicinales. Discusión: Los hallazgos concuerdan con los resultados de otros estudios que evidencian la importancia de la tradición cultural en el cuidado de los lactantes, el protagonismo de la experiencia acumulada de las abuelas en estos saberes y prácticas; además de corroborar que el uso de plantas medicinales en lactantes se rige únicamente por la necesidad de cuidado ante situaciones de salud que lo ameritan. Solo dos ejemplares de las plantas medicinales clasificadas por las mujeres raizales de este estudio se encuentran referenciadas en el vademécum colombiano de plantas medicinales. Conclusiones: Las plantas medicinales abordan un amplio espectro de usos y propiedades que necesitan un extenso estudio para su registro y divulgación.

Introduction: The use of medicinal plants is part of the traditional culture of many populations around the world. Used to prevent diseases and preserve the health of individuals, it is a knowledge that mothers and grandmothers keep for early childhood care. However, there are many gaps in research regarding the use and properties of medicinal plants in infants and the general population. Objective: Analyze and describe the practices and beliefs with the ancestral use of medicinal plants in infants by the Raizal community in San Andrés Island. Materials and methods: It's a qualitative study with a descriptive ethnographic design applied to a convenience sample of 8 grandmothers from the Raizal community of San Andrés Island. We made out a description and analysis of the ideas, social practices, behaviors, beliefs, meanings, and knowledge about the uses of medicinal plants on infants. Results: The ancestral knowledge of medicinal plants use led by the grandmothers still persevered. The use of medicinal plants on infants administers only to the need of health situations. The investigation found 23 specimens of medicinal plants used in infant breastmilk, just a few plants found in this study are registered in the Colombian Vademecum of medicinal plants. Discussion: The findings agree with the results of other studies that show the importance of cultural traditions in the care of infants, the role of the accumulated experience of grandmothers in this knowledge and practices. In addition to corroborating that the use of medicinal plants in infants is governed solely by the need for care in health situations that warrant it. Only two specimens of the medicinal plants classified by the Raizal women in this study are referenced in the Colombian Vademecum of medicinal plants. Conclusion: Medicinal plants address a wide spectrum of uses and properties that need extensive study for their registration and dissemination.

Prácticas integradoras y complementarias, perfil y cuidados de enfermeras(os) a personas con hipertensión: estudio mixto / Integrative and complementary practices in health, nurses' profile and care provided to people with hypertension: a mixed study design / Práticas integrativas e complementares, perfil e cuidados de enfermeiras(os) às pessoas com hipertensão: estudo misto

Objetivo: analizar el perfil de enfermeras(os) acerca de las prácticas integradoras y complementarias en salud y comprender cómo son utilizadas en el cuidado a personas con hipertensión arterial. Método: explicativo, secuencial y mixto. La etapa cuantitativa transversal contó con 386 enfermeras(os), a través de cuestionario virtual, abordando el perfil sociodemográfico y profesional y la formación y actuación, con análisis descriptivo e inferencial. La etapa cualitativa se realizó mediante 18 entrevistas virtuales con profesionales que poseían formación en las prácticas y las utilizaban en el cuidado a personas con hipertensión, fundamentadas en el análisis participativo. La integración se realizó por conexión. Resultados: el 36,8% tuvo formación en las prácticas con predominio de mujeres, blancas, casadas, funcionarias públicas, con media de edad de 37 años (+ 9,4). El 14,2% utilizaba las prácticas en el cuidado en personas con hipertensión, predominando la auriculoterapia (28,2%) y la sangría en la crisis hipertensiva. Se evidenció el abordaje integral del paciente, no limitado a signos vitales alterados, con intervención en la ansiedad, estrés, sueño y reposo. Como potencialidad, tenemos el auxilio en la adhesión al tratamiento. Conclusión: se presentó el perfil de enfermeras(os) con formación en prácticas integradoras y complementarias. Se comprende que esas prácticas tienen implicación en la disminución de la presión arterial y que son utilizadas en el cuidado a personas con hipertensión, sin embargo de manera incipiente, considerando el potencial en el cuidado de enfermería.

Objective: to analyze the profile of nurses regarding integrative and complementary practices in health (ICPH) and understand how they are used in the care of people with arterial hypertension. Method: mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The cross-sectional quantitative stage included 386 nurses who completed an online questionnaire addressing sociodemographic and professional information, training, and practice, with a descriptive and inferential analysis. The qualitative stage was performed via 18 online interviews with professionals who had ICPH training and implemented it in the care provided to individuals with hypertension, with a participatory analysis. Integration occurred through a connecting approach. Results: 36.8% had ICPH training; most were women, Caucasian, married, public servants, aged 37 (+ 9.4) on average; 14.2% incorporated ICPH into the care provided to people with hypertension; predominantly auriculotherapy (28.2%) and bloodletting in hypertensive crises. The results show that nurses integrally approached patients, and their approach was not limited to the vital sign altered at the time, but they also intervened in anxiety, stress, sleep, and rest. A potentiality observed concerns support treatment adherence. Conclusion: the profile of nurses with ICPH training is presented, and such practice has implications for lowering blood pressure. ICPH has been incorporated into the care of people with hypertension, but its use is still incipient, considering its potential in nursing care.

Objetivo: analisar o perfil de enfermeiras(os) acerca das práticas integrativas e complementares em saúde e compreender como são utilizadas no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão arterial. Método: explanatório sequencial misto. A etapa quantitativa transversal contou com 386 enfermeiras(os), via questionário virtual, abordando perfil sociodemográfico e profissional, formação e atuação, com análise descritiva e inferencial. A etapa qualitativa ocorreu mediante 18 entrevistas virtuais com profissionais que possuem formação nas práticas e as utilizam no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão, fundamentada na análise participativa. A integração se deu por conexão. Resultados: 36,8% tinham formação nas práticas, predominando mulheres, brancas, casadas, servidoras públicas, com média de idade de 37 anos (+ 9,4). 14,2% utilizam as práticas no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão, predominando a auriculoterapia (28,2%) e a sangria na crise hipertensiva. Evidenciou-se a abordagem integral do paciente, não limitada ao sinal vital alterado, com intervenção na ansiedade, estresse, sono e repouso. Como potencialidade, tem-se o auxílio na adesão ao tratamento. Conclusão: apresentou-se o perfil de enfermeiras(os) com formação em práticas integrativas e complementares. Compreende-se que tais práticas têm implicação na diminuição da pressão arterial, e são utilizadas no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão, porém de forma incipiente, considerando o potencial no cuidado de enfermagem.

Bioactivity of Hibbertia scandens – an Australian Aboriginal Traditional Medicinal Plant

The First Australian Community is one of the ancient civilizations which has been dependent upon the available surrounding natural resources for their clothing, nutrition and healing of disease. Unfortunately, some of their traditional medicines and / or their practical applications are lost because of poor written documentation. Plants form parts of ancient remedies used by Aboriginal peoples to heal several ailments due to their therapeutic activities. One of these medicinal plants is Hibbertia scandens (Snake Vine), which has been used by Aboriginal Communities as a traditional medicine to treat sores and rashes due to antibacterial and antiseptic properties of this plant.

Peloideterapia en adultos mayores con osteoartrosis de rodilla. Yaguaramas, 2021

Fundamento el incremento de la esperanza de vida viene aparejado con la necesidad del adulto mayor de desenvolverse en su medio y garantizar una longevidad plena. Objetivo determinar la efectividad de la peloideterapia en adultos mayores con osteoartrosis de rodilla. Métodos se realizó un estudio de intervención, cuasi experimental, en 30 pacientes con osteoartrosis de rodilla, seleccionados mediante aleatorización simple, quienes fueron atendidos en el área de salud de Yaguaramas (Abreus, Cienfuegos), en el período comprendido entre marzo y junio de 2021. Se realizó una encuesta general. La evolución del dolor se determinó mediante la escala de Likert, y la limitación articular se analizó mediante la medición del arco articular de la rodilla con el goniómetro. Resultados predominaron los pacientes del grupo de edades de 66-70 años y del sexo femenino; con tiempo de evolución entre 5-10 años (60 %); y con ambas rodillas afectadas (56,7%). Los principales signos y síntomas fueron el dolor (100 %) y la limitación del movimiento articular (93,3 %), los cuales disminuyeron tras el tratamiento. El 53,3 % refirió dolor ligero antes del tratamiento; después del tratamiento el 83,3 % describió ausencia de dolor. El 76,7 % de los pacientes manifestó limitación en la flexión de la rodilla, que después del tratamiento disminuyó a 13,3 %. Conclusiones la peloideterapia influye positivamente en los adultos mayores con osteoartrosis de rodilla, al mejorar su estado funcional e independencia personal, además de reducir las demandas de servicios médicos.

Background the increase in life expectancy is coupled with the elderly's need to function in its media and guarantee full longevity. Objective to determine the effectiveness of peloidtherapy in older adults with osteoarthritis of the knee. Method a quasi-experimental intervention study was carried out in 30 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, selected by simple randomization, who were treated in the health area of Yaguaramas (Abreus, Cienfuegos), between March and June of 2021. A general survey was carried out. The evolution of pain was determined using the Likert scale, and joint limitation was analyzed by measuring the knee joint arc with the goniometer. Results there was a predominance of patients in the age group of 66-70 years old and of the female sex; with evolution time between 5-10 years (60%); and with both knees affected (56.7%). The main signs and symptoms were pain (100%) and limitation of joint movement (93.3%), which decreased after treatment. 53.3% reported light pain before treatment; after treatment, 83.3% described absence of pain. 76.7% of the patients manifested limitation in knee flexion, which after treatment decreased to 13.3%. Conclusions peloidtherapy has a positive influence on older adults with osteoarthritis of the knee, by improving their functional status and personal independence, as well as reducing the demands for medical services.

Traditional Uses and Anticancer Potential of the Combretum Genus: A Literature Review

Background: Cancer incidence is increasing annually in all countries. So, it is nowadays a great burden for the different nations of the world. Research for new therapeutics is becoming an urgent need, particularly for intractable and chemoresistant cancer cases. The solutions can still be found by investigating natural products which are recognized as promising sources of bioactive compounds with a potential for the discovery of new preventive and therapeutic anticancer agents. Methodology: The present work used databases such as Pubmed, Science Direct and Google scholar to investigate the ethnobotanical uses of some Combretum species in the literature. It also allowed us to summarize some pharmacological studies on Combretum species. Results: This review gathers all available traditional uses and cytotoxicity studies of Combretum species in the literature. Special focus is given to pharmacological studies highlighting isolated potential anticancer molecules. These molecules present potent cytotoxic effect on various cancer cell lines and may contribute to improving the health of people suffering from various cancer diseases. Conclusion: The Combretum species are widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of several pathologies including cancers. This study is of fundamental importance in highlighting Combretum species as a potential source for research of new anticancer compounds.

Evaluation of subacute toxicity of a polyherbal nootropic formulation in Wistar albino rats

In ayurvedic system of traditional medicine, 'medhyarasayanas' — decoction of selected plants are used to improve intellect or cognition abilities. Here, we investigated one such polyherbal formulation (PHF) with ingredients Bacopa monniera, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Valeriana wallechii and Withania somnifera used as a facilitator of learning, retention and recall. We evaluated the safety of this PHF in animal models. We performed acute oral toxicity test using 2000 mg/kg of the formulation as per OECD guideline 423 and observed for toxicity over 14 days. Thereafter, we divided them into four groups of six animals each and administered Normal saline 5 mL/kg, The PHF (Wilmer®) @500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg in the respective groups over 28 days. We observed no mortality or physical and behavioural abnormalities in both acute and subacute toxicity study. On the 28th day, animals were sacrificed, blood collected for estimation of haematological and biochemical parameters and histopathological examination of organs was performed. There was significant difference (P <0.05) in Mean ± SEM values of haemoglobin, total cholesterol, total protein, ALT, AST, ALP and serum creatinine in the test groups compared to control as analysed by One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test. We observed steatosis and ballooning of hepatocytes, lymphocytic periglomerular infiltrate, eosinophilic hyaline casts and renal tubular coagulation necrosis in histopathology of test groups. Haematologic abnormalities (decrease in haemoglobin concentration), hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic and dyslipidemic effects of the tested PHF were seen in the rats in subacute toxicity study over 28 days, which could be due to the individual plant products, microbial contamination or heavy metals in the formulation in excess of regulatory limits. Hence, it needs further safety evaluation in animals and humans.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking study of the active ingredients in Saptasaram kashayam for the treatment of Polycystic ovary syndrome-Supplemenntary data

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age characterized by hyperandrogenism (HA). Current treatment options for PCOS are either with adverse effects or ineffective. Saptasaram kashayam (SK), an ayurvedic formulation is often been a safe traditional alternative medicine to improve the PCOS symptoms as well as its pathological development. However, its principle phytoconstituents or underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. In order to achieve this, the current study systematically utilized computational tools, network pharmacology approaches and molecular docking studies. All identified phytoconstituents of SK were screened by QikProp ADME prediction and 47 were selected based on oral bioavailability and drug likeliness scores. Their 3D structures were submitted to three online target fishing webservers PharmMapper, ChemMapper and Swiss Target Prediction which produced 1084 biological targets for SK comprehensively. 350 known PCOS therapeutic targets were retreived as common targets from three different interrogative disease centric bioinformatic platforms DisGeNET, OMIM and GeneCards. Intersection of 1084 biological targets of SK and 350 PCOS therapeutic targets produced, 88 potential therapeutic targets of SK against PCOS. STRING PPI and Compound-Target-Pathway networks were constructed and analysed using Cytoscape software. GO & KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed using DAVID database. 15 PCOS therapeutic target proteins were short listed from network analysis report- PIK3CA, PDPK1, AKT1, PIK3R1, STAT3, MAPK1, MAPK3, EGFR, AR, ESR1, ESR2, SHGB, NOS3, F2 & CREBBP. Targets that were likely to be inhibited/modulated by SK for treatment of PCOS were docked against the screened phytoconstituents and their respective standard inhibitors using GLIDE-SP of Schrodinger suite, Maestro version- 13.0. Results showed that Quercetin, Catechin, Boeravinone J, Genistein, Protocatechuic Acid, Gentisic Acid, Xanthoarnol, Luteolin, Boeravinone F, Tyrosine, Kaempferol, Dalbergioidin, etc exhibited good binding affinities when compared to standard drugs and might be responsible for synergistic/additive protective effect of SK against PCOS. Meanwhile PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Prolactin signaling pathway, AGE-RAG diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway and Estrogen signaling pathway were found to be involving the hub genes of interest and in this way, they might be intervened during treatment of PCOS by SK. Present study succeeded in identifying the drug like principle phytoconstituents, probable PCOS therapeutic targets and the underlying molecular mechanism of SK apart from providing reliable evidence for therapeutic potential of SK against PCOS. However further validation by in vitro and in vivo investigations is necessary.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking study of the active ingredients in Saptasaram kashayam for the treatment of Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age characterized by hyperandrogenism (HA). Current treatment options for PCOS are either with adverse effects or ineffective. Saptasaram kashayam (SK), an ayurvedic formulation is often been a safe traditional alternative medicine to improve the PCOS symptoms as well as its pathological development. However, its principle phytoconstituents or underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. In order to achieve this, the current study systematically utilized computational tools, network pharmacology approaches and molecular docking studies. All identified phytoconstituents of SK were screened by QikProp ADME prediction and 47 were selected based on oral bioavailability and drug likeliness scores. Their 3D structures were submitted to three online target fishing webservers PharmMapper, ChemMapper and Swiss Target Prediction which produced 1084 biological targets for SK comprehensively. 350 known PCOS therapeutic targets were retreived as common targets from three different interrogative disease centric bioinformatic platforms DisGeNET, OMIM and GeneCards. Intersection of 1084 biological targets of SK and 350 PCOS therapeutic targets produced, 88 potential therapeutic targets of SK against PCOS. STRING PPI and Compound-Target-Pathway networks were constructed and analysed using Cytoscape software. GO & KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed using DAVID database. 15 PCOS therapeutic target proteins were short listed from network analysis report- PIK3CA, PDPK1, AKT1, PIK3R1, STAT3, MAPK1, MAPK3, EGFR, AR, ESR1, ESR2, SHGB, NOS3, F2 & CREBBP. Targets that were likely to be inhibited/modulated by SK for treatment of PCOS were docked against the screened phytoconstituents and their respective standard inhibitors using GLIDE-SP of Schrodinger suite, Maestro version- 13.0. Results showed that Quercetin, Catechin, Boeravinone J, Genistein, Protocatechuic Acid, Gentisic Acid, Xanthoarnol, Luteolin, Boeravinone F, Tyrosine, Kaempferol, Dalbergioidin, etc exhibited good binding affinities when compared to standard drugs and might be responsible for synergistic/additive protective effect of SK against PCOS. Meanwhile PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Prolactin signaling pathway, AGE-RAG diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway and Estrogen signaling pathway were found to be involving the hub genes of interest and in this way, they might be intervened during treatment of PCOS by SK. Present study succeeded in identifying the drug like principle phytoconstituents, probable PCOS therapeutic targets and the underlying molecular mechanism of SK apart from providing reliable evidence for therapeutic potential of SK against PCOS. However further validation by in vitro and in vivo investigations is necessary.

Current Situation and Problems of the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Traditional Chinese Medicine / 中医杂志

The intangible cultural heritage of traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） is the essence of the treasure house of TCM. The State Council has successively announced five batches of national intangible cultural heritage representative projects and lists of inheritors， including 182 projects and 130 inheritors in traditional medicine. A systematic analysis of current traditional medicine projects and inheritors has found problems such as unreasonable categorization， obvious category bias， large regional distribution gap， serious aging of the inheritance team， and under emphasizing in ethnic minority medicine. Therefore， it is suggested to adjust categories， balance development， rationalize categories， and increase attention， thereby providing reference for the protection of TCM intangible cultural heritage.

Current Situation and Problems of the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Traditional Chinese Medicine / 中医杂志

@#The intangible cultural heritage of traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） is the essence of the treasure house of TCM. The State Council has successively announced five batches of national intangible cultural heritage representative projects and lists of inheritors， including 182 projects and 130 inheritors in traditional medicine. A systematic analysis of current traditional medicine projects and inheritors has found problems such as unreasonable categorization， obvious category bias， large regional distribution gap， serious aging of the inheritance team， and under emphasizing in ethnic minority medicine. Therefore， it is suggested to adjust categories， balance development， rationalize categories， and increase attention， thereby providing reference for the protection of TCM intangible cultural heritage.

Research on the online teaching practice of Chinese traditional medicine based on the model of "Chaoxing learning platform + live broadcasting" / 中华医学教育探索杂志

Taking the course of Chinese traditional medicine as an example, this paper discusses the construction and implementation effect of online teaching mode from the following four aspects: online teaching curriculum design, teaching implementation, teaching effect evaluation, and teaching reflection, with a view to providing beneficial reference for the follow-up hybrid teaching and promoting the construction of hybrid first-class courses by summarizing the experience of online teaching.

From talk to action: Developing a model to foster effective integration of traditional medicine into the Ghanaian healthcare system / 中西医结合学报

This research assessed the experience of stakeholders and the efficacy of integrating traditional medicine into the Ghanaian health system using the Ashanti Region as the focal point. Elements of an integrative healthcare delivery model including philosophies/values, structure, process and outcome were used to conduct a quality assessment of the integrated health system in Ghana. Each element clearly showed that Ghana is currently not running a coordinated health practice model, thus making it a tolerant, rather than an inclusive, health system. Therefore, the primary purpose of this research is to discuss the development of a new and appropriately customised model that could enhance the practice of integrated healthcare in Ghana. The model we present has flexibility and far-reaching applicability in other African countries because such countries share similar socio-cultural and economic characteristics. As such, governments and health practitioners could adapt this model to improve the practice of integrated healthcare in their specific settings. Hospital administrators and health system researchers could also adapt the model to investigate or to monitor the progress and efficacy of integrated healthcare practices within their settings. This might help to understand the relationships between the integration of traditional medicine and health outcomes for a given population. Please cite this article as: Ampomah IG, Malau-Aduli BS, Malau-Aduli AEO, Emeto TI. From talk to action: Developing a model to foster effective integration of traditional medicine into the Ghanaian healthcare system. J Integr Med. 2023; 21(5): 423-429.

A Questionnaire Survey on Acupuncture Practical Training for 5th Grade of Medical School / 日本東洋医学雑誌

To clarify the educational effect of the acupuncture and moxibustion practical training for a short time, we conducted a questionnaire survey of 112 fifth-year medical students gathering clinical experience for one hour of acupuncture and moxibustion practical training, including the therapeutic experience before and after the practical training. In 8 items out of 10, the percentage of “positively yes” responses after the practical training were significantly higher than before the practical training. The items that showed a large difference (range of change) in the percentage of “positively yes” responses before and after the practical training were “Do you think it is scientific? (+ 47.4% after the practical training),” “What is your general image? (+ 39.3%),” and “Do you want to use acupuncture and moxibustion in the future? (+ 39.3%).” Securing more opportunities to learn traditional medicine is desirable; however, the problem of limited time and personnel requires improvement. This survey showed a beneficial educational effect in a short time signifying the importance of implementing acupuncture and moxibustion practical training. Additionally, the possibility of expecting similar effects in other medical students and overall students in the medical field can also be expected.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment, Gua Sha, can Induce Subtle Molecular Changes in Gene Expression / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

OBJECTIVE@#Here, we explored molecular changes that could potentially mediate healing effects of Gua Sha - a method employed by the Chinese traditional medicine with proven track records of safe and efficient applications dating back to ancient times as well as support from randomized controlled trials performed by modern medical studies - yet remaining almost entirely unexplored by the modern-day high-throughput methods of the -omics sciences.@*METHODS@#We investigated transcriptome changes occurring shortly after Gua Sha treatment in the whole blood of healthy volunteers using bulk RNA-seq analysis. We applied various analytical tools to identify genes with consistent expression changes in multiple individuals in response to Gua Sha and their networks.@*RESULTS@#We found that while the changes were very subtle and individual-specific, we could identify consistent upregulation of three histone genes. Further analysis of the potential regulatory networks of these histone genes revealed the enrichment of functions involved in the immune response and inflammation.@*CONCLUSION@#The significance of these results in the context of potential effects of Gua Sha and the next steps in exploring the molecular mechanisms of action of this technique are discussed.

Literature Survey on Edible Medicinal Plants in Lancang-Mekong Countries / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Lancang-Mekong countries refer to the six countries that the Lancang-Mekong River flows through， including China， Laos， Myanmar， Thailand， Cambodia， and Vietnam. These countries are geographically adjacent with similar cultures and have long history of traditional medicine and high plant diversity. Since ancient times， medicinal plants have been introduced into China from the countries along the river， including a variety of medicinal plants with edible and healthcare values， which is an important way for the transnational circulation of medicinal resources. This paper briefly described the history and application of edible medicinal plants in the six Lancang-Mekong countries and summarized more than 150 edible medicinal plants from the other five countries except China. These 150 medicinal plants belong to 66 families such as Labiatae， and 12 species of them are used as edible medicinal plants in all the six countries. Further， we collected the information of these edible medicinal plants， including the origins， efficacy， indications， medicinal edible parts， edible values， and the traditional application of these plants in China. Some valuable edible medicinal plants in the other five countries are considered to have a promising prospect of application in China and may be introduced to China as new medicinal resources. These efforts will be conducive to the cooperation in traditional medicine among Lancang-Mekong countries.

Methodology and application of process analytical technology (PAT) for traditional Chinese medicine manufacturing:a review / 中国中药杂志

Owing to the advancement in pharmaceutical technology, traditional Chinese medicine industry has seen rapid development. Preferring conventional manufacturing mode, pharmaceutical enterprises of traditional Chinese medicine have no effective process detection tools and process control methods. As a result, the quality of the final products mainly depends on testing and the quality is inconsistent in the same batch. Process analytical technology(PAT) for traditional Chinese medicine manufacturing, as one of the key advanced manufacturing techniques, can break through the bottleneck in quality control of medicine manufacturing, thus improving the production efficiency and product quality and reducing the material and energy consumption. It is applicable to the process control and real-time release of advanced manufacturing modes such as intelligent manufacturing and continuous manufacturing. This paper summarized the general idea of PAT for traditional Chinese medicine manufacturing. Through the analysis of the characteristics and status quo of the technology, we summed up the methodology for the continuous application and improvement of PAT during the whole life-cycle of traditional Chinese medicine. The five key procedures(process understanding, process detection, process modeling, process control, and continuous improvement) were summarized, and the application was reviewed. Finally, we proposed suggestions for the technical and regulatory challenges in implementing PAT in traditional Chinese medicine industry. This paper aims to provide a reference for development and application of PAT in advanced manufacturing, intelligent manufacturing, and continuous manufacturing of traditional Chinese medicine industry.