When the umbrellas were held up against the tear gas attack in the protest on September 28, 2014, the hot issue raised by the marathon-like Yellow Umbrella Movement was not only the matter of politics but also a coinc...When the umbrellas were held up against the tear gas attack in the protest on September 28, 2014, the hot issue raised by the marathon-like Yellow Umbrella Movement was not only the matter of politics but also a coincidence created for the Hong Kong locals to face, or to be faced with an already moot cliche： How the Hongkongese can redef＇me and redeem their almost lost socio-cultural identity, particularly under the increasingly hegemonic influences and the socio-cultural invasion of the mainland after the 1997 Handover. My present paper is not intended to discuss the topic of identity on the platform of politics, or the postcolonial studies such as transculturation or cultural hybridty. But instead, I am far more interested in locating such issue on the aesthetic dimension of collective memory, which is revealed in two local contemporary Hong Kong compositions. In the process of shaping and reshaping a form of＂HongKongeseness＂ in which the composers tend to create and the local listeners tend to experience, albeit transient, can appear in every nuance of the sonic metaphor embedded in the pre-existing indigenous tunes of a self-contained compositional work.展开更多
The article delves into the concept of“Chineseness”in contemporary Chinese architecture,a strategic tool for creating distinctive styles rooted in Chinese identity.It serves not only to distinguish projects from mar...The article delves into the concept of“Chineseness”in contemporary Chinese architecture,a strategic tool for creating distinctive styles rooted in Chinese identity.It serves not only to distinguish projects from market-driven trends but also to establish a pivotal position in the global architectural landscape.“Chineseness”among 24 identified keywords represents a practical strategy embraced by many young architects with international exposure.The traditional Chinese dwelling,a symbol of familial and cultural essence,particularly in the context of home culture,is a primary inspiration for contemporary architects.The research adopts a case study approach,focusing on Tulou-related cases from the last fifteen years,encompassing various building types.The Tulou,a mountain-dwelling with rich cultural connotations,is introduced,reflecting ancient Chinese philosophies in its architectural principles.The case studies,including URBANUS’s“Tulou Collective Housing 2008”and Chengdu’s“Tulou Theater,”demonstrate how Tulou prototypes can be creatively adapted.These designs not only replicate forms but also capture the communal spirit inherent in traditional dwellings.“Stepped Courtyards”by OPEN Architecture reinterprets Tulou typology for a staff dormitory,emphasizing community awareness.In conclusion,the concept of“Chineseness”emerges as a prominent topic,showcasing the dynamic and adaptable nature of traditional Chinese culture and modern architectural expressions.The cases illustrate the evolving intersection between traditional Chinese culture and modern architecture,offering insights into the future trajectory of Chinese architectural culture.The interrelated keywords highlight the nuanced and evolving nature of“Chineseness”in architectural practices.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast disease mainly caused by endocrine disorders,manifested as abnormal hyperplasia of breast tissue.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine compounds and probi...BACKGROUND:Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast disease mainly caused by endocrine disorders,manifested as abnormal hyperplasia of breast tissue.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine compounds and probiotics have shown good potential in regulating the endocrine system and improving the intestinal microecology,providing new ideas for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.OBJECTIVE:To explore the effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine compounds and fermented probiotic compounds on breast hyperplasia in mice,providing new theoretical and experimental bases for the clinical treatment and prevention of breast hyperplasia.METHODS:(1)Network pharmacology tools were used to predict the anti-breast-hyperplasia activity of Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa),as well as its potential targets and signaling pathways.The databases included:TCMSP,OMIM,GeneCards database,UniProt website,Venny2.1.0 website,Metascape,HERB website,and STRING database,all of which are open-access databases.Network pharmacology can predict and screen key information such as the targets corresponding to the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine,disease targets,and action pathways through network analysis and computer-system analysis.Therefore,it has been increasingly widely used in the research of traditional Chinese medicine.(2)A breast hyperplasia model was induced in mice by injecting estrogen and progesterone.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intraperitoneally with normal saline every day.Mice in the model group and drugadministration groups were injected intraperitoneally with estradiol benzoate injection at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg every day for 25 days.From the 26th day,the injection of estradiol benzoate injection was stopped.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intramuscularly with normal saline every day,and mice in the model group and drug-administration groups were injected intramuscularly with progesterone injection at a concentration of 5 mg/kg for 5 days.After the model was established,each group was given drugs respectively.The normal blank group and the model group were gavaged with 0.2 mL/d of normal saline;the positive blank group(Xiaozheng Pill group)was gavaged with an aqueous solution of Xiaozheng Pill at 0.9 mg/g;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively.The administration was continuous for 30 days.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)The results of network pharmacology research showed that the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa)contained 46 active ingredients,which were related to 1213 potential targets.After comparison with 588 known breast-hyperplasia targets,it was speculated that 50 of these targets might be related to the direct effect of the compound on breast hyperplasia.(2)After drug intervention,there was no significant change in the high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae compared with the normal blank group.The liver indicators of the other intervention groups all significantly decreased(P<0.05).(3)In terms of kidney and uterine indicators,the medium-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae decreased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.05).In terms of the uterine index,the model group increased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.01).(4)After 1-month drug treatment,the number of lobules and acini in the breast tissue of the Xiaozheng Pill group,the low,medium,and high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae,the low,medium,and highdose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation decreased,and the duct openings narrowed.With the increase of drug dose,diffuse hyperplasia of breast tissue was significantly improved.(5)The ELISA results showed that compared with the model group,the estrogen level was lower in the medium-dose group of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation after the intervention(P<0.05).In addition,the follicle-stimulating hormone level in the low-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae was lower than that of the model group(P<0.05).(6)The intervention in the mouse model led to changes in the abundance of short chain fatty acids and intestinal flora in all groups.To conclude,the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae and its probiotic fermentation products significantly improved mammary gland hyperplasia in mice by regulating hormone levels,improving the structure of the gut microbiota,and increasing the content of shortchain fatty acids,providing new ideas and potential sources of drugs for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.展开更多
Born in Penglai,Shandong Province in 1942,Jiang Baolin is currently working as a doctoral supervisor at the Chinese National Academy of Arts.He’s also a committee member and researcher at the China National Academy o...Born in Penglai,Shandong Province in 1942,Jiang Baolin is currently working as a doctoral supervisor at the Chinese National Academy of Arts.He’s also a committee member and researcher at the China National Academy of Painting.He graduated from Zhejiang Academy of Fine Arts(now China Academy of Art),studying under such masters as Lu Yanshao and Gu Kunbo,and later pursued his master’s degree at the Central Academy of Fine Arts,sitting at the feet of masters like Li Keran.展开更多
Background:Cyperi Rhizoma,derived from Cyperus rotundus L.,is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with Shandong Province recognized as its geo-authentic habitat.However,the quality of Cyp...Background:Cyperi Rhizoma,derived from Cyperus rotundus L.,is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with Shandong Province recognized as its geo-authentic habitat.However,the quality of Cyperi Rhizoma varies significantly across different regions,potentially influencing its therapeutic efficacy.This study investigates the influence of geographic origin on the chemical composition and overall quality of Cyperi Rhizoma.Methods:A comprehensive approach,including traditional quality assessment,GC-MS(g as c hromatography-m ass s pectrometry),RP-HPLC(r everse p hase h igh-p erformance l iquid c hromatography),and FT-IR(f ourier t ransform i nfrared s pectroscopy)techniques,was employed to analyze Cyperi Rhizoma samples from Shandong Province.These methods examined the physical appearance,chemical profile,and content variations,particularly focusing onα-cyperone.Results:Traditional quality assessments revealed noticeable differences in the external characteristics of the samples.GC-MS analysis identified a variety of unique chemical constituents,while RP-HPLC and FT-IR showed significant variations inα-cyperone content,with higher levels found in Shandong samples.Conclusion:These results demonstrate that geographic origin is a critical determinant of Cyperi Rhizoma quality,with Shandong specimens exhibiting superiorα-cyperone levels and characteristic phytochemical profiles.This validates the geo-authenticity concept in TCM and provides actionable data for developing evidence-based quality standards,suggesting that provenance should be prioritized in medicinal material selection and pharmacopeial specifications.展开更多
Nanjing,capital city of present-day Jiangsu Province and once the capital of six dynasties,is home to a rich collection of cultural relics that bear witness to thousands of years of Chinese civilization.
Background: The human gut microbiome is an important target for disease treatment and prevention. Various microbial species within the complex ecosystem of the microbiome have been shown to play important roles in dis...Background: The human gut microbiome is an important target for disease treatment and prevention. Various microbial species within the complex ecosystem of the microbiome have been shown to play important roles in disease. Identification of bioactive materials capable of altering the abundances of these species both safely and effectively is a major goal in microbiome research. Many traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been reported to affect the composition of the gut microbiome. Here, we summarize studies that have used TCMs to alter the gut microbiome and discuss the response relationship between TCMs and gut microbial species. Methods: We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and Knowledge Network databases using the terms “traditional Chinese medicine,” “gut microbiome,” and specific system disease names (endocrine, immune, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive). Studies were excluded if irrelevant or if the experimental procedures were unclear. Results: TCMs have been reported to affect a wide range of gut microbial taxa spanning major phyla, including Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobiota, Actinobacteria, and Fusobacteria. In all, 54 TCMs including compounds and extracts have been tested in rodents and 30 have been examined in human trials. Almost all studies have reported positive results in regulating the gut microbiome as well as modulating corresponding phenotypes, spanning diseases of the endocrine, immune, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. Gut species, including Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Fusobacterium, Faecalibacterium, and E. coli, were found to be regulated by 19 TCMs. A network was constructed to visualize the interactions between TCMs and these taxa. Conclusion: There exists a complex and close relationship between intestinal microflora and diseases. Sufficient experimental data and studies have proved that the imbalance of intestinal microflora affects health by mediating metabolism, immune regulation, inflammation and signal transduction. Many characteristic alterations of intestinal microflora are positively correlated with diseases, so intestinal microflora has become a potential risk index and treatment target for many diseases. Many TCMs affect the relative abundances of microbial species in the gut, and therefore may be useful for modulating the gut microbiome. This review provides a reference for prioritizing candidate TCMs from the enormous repertoire of such medicines to test which specific gut microbes are targeted.展开更多
The Double Take column looks at a single topic from an African and Chinese perspective.This month,we discuss what makes a job meaningful.Look Beyond the Surface.What makes a job meaningful?The answer is far from unive...The Double Take column looks at a single topic from an African and Chinese perspective.This month,we discuss what makes a job meaningful.Look Beyond the Surface.What makes a job meaningful?The answer is far from universal.For some,it’s the stability of a pay cheque and a clear path for career growth.展开更多
Currently,the number of patients with myopia is increasing rapidly across the globe.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with its long history and rich experience,has shown promise in effectively managing and treating th...Currently,the number of patients with myopia is increasing rapidly across the globe.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with its long history and rich experience,has shown promise in effectively managing and treating this condition.Nevertheless,considering the vast amount of research that is currently being conducted,focusing on the utilization of TCM in the management of myopia,there is an urgent requirement for a thorough and comprehensive review.The review would serve to clarify the practical applications of TCM within this specific field,and it would also aim to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that are at play,providing a deeper understanding of how TCM principles can be effectively integrated into modern medical practices.Here,some modern medical pathogenesis of myopia and appropriate TCM techniques studies are summarized in the prevention and treatment of myopia.Further,we discussed the potential mechanisms and the future research directions of TCM against myopia.Identifying these mechanisms is crucial for understanding how TCM can be effectively utilized in this context.The combination of various TCM methods or the combination of traditional Chinese and Western medicine is of great significance for the prevention and control of myopia in the future.展开更多
Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea(CID)is a major concern for cancer patients and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.Currently,the clinical management of CID is limited.The utilization of antidiarrheal ...Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea(CID)is a major concern for cancer patients and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.Currently,the clinical management of CID is limited.The utilization of antidiarrheal medications,such as loperamide and octreotide,is relatively limited because of their unsatisfactory efficacy and adverse effects.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has attracted great interest because of its beneficial effect in treating CID,which has multitarget and low-toxicity therapeutic characteristics.TCM exhibits remarkable therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment of CID.It can alleviate and treat CID by regulating chemical drug metabolism,improving the integrity of the intestinal barrier,stimulating proliferation while suppressing the apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells,ameliorating oxidative stress and inflammation and regulating bile acids and aquaporins.However,large-scale,randomized,double-blind clinical trials of TCM for the treatment of CID are lacking,and most preclinical experiments have not been translated to clinical trials.Accordingly,this review highlights the clinical efficacy and molecular mechanisms of TCM against CID via PubMed,Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure and proposes that future research on TCM against CID should focus on strengthening the connection from bench to bed,which may help to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutic potential of TCM against CID.展开更多
Discussions on Chinese modernization are offering African countries both conceptual inspiration and practical references as they explore their own sustainable development paths.
This editorial examines the emerging potential of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)in enhancing postoperative recovery following gastroenteroscopy,highlighted by a 2025 randomized controlled trial by Hong et al.The st...This editorial examines the emerging potential of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)in enhancing postoperative recovery following gastroenteroscopy,highlighted by a 2025 randomized controlled trial by Hong et al.The study,involving 120 patients,demonstrates that meridian flow injection(MFI)combined with transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation(TEAS)significantly improves gastrointestinal(GI)function,evidenced by a reduced time to first defecation(3.20±1.04 days vs 3.98±1.27 days,P<0.001),lowers stress biomarkers(e.g.,reduced cortisol and norepinephrine),and enhances clinical efficacy(93.33%vs 75.00%,P=0.006).Leveraging TCM’s five-element theory and Ziwu Liuzhu timing,the intervention targets key acupoints such as Zusanli(ST36)with a herbal paste comprising Qingpi,Houpu,and rhubarb,delivered transdermally to optimize bioavailability.This approach harmonizes ancient TCM principles with contemporary evidence-based practice,offering a holistic strategy to address postoperative nausea,delayed motility,and patient discomfort.Currently,integrative methods like MFI-TEAS are gaining traction,supported by recent meta-analyses that affirm TEAS’s efficacy in accelerating GI recovery across surgical contexts,including shortened times to first exhaust and defecation.This reflects a growing recognition of TCM’s role in perioperative care amidst rising global endoscopy demands.Looking forward,future research should prioritize multicenter,doubleblinded trials to enhance generalizability,adhere to standardized reporting frameworks such as CONSORT and STRICTA,and employ advanced tools like multiomics and functional magnetic resonance imaging to elucidate mechanistic pathways,including gut-brain axis modulation and microbiota-immune interactions.Such developments promise to refine these interventions,fostering a seamless integration of TCM with Western medicine and delivering tailored,patientcentered solutions to improve postoperative outcomes worldwide.展开更多
As a Burundian doctoral student at Nanjing University,my personal journey is closely intertwined with China’s development in the new era and the deepening China-Africa partnership.Recently,my experiences have given m...As a Burundian doctoral student at Nanjing University,my personal journey is closely intertwined with China’s development in the new era and the deepening China-Africa partnership.Recently,my experiences have given me a deeper appreciation of the importance of people-to-people exchanges between China and Africa.展开更多
BACKGROUND Perimenopausal women are prone to anxiety and depression due to fluctuating hormone levels,which significantly impair their quality of life.The current treatments have certain limitations.In traditional Chi...BACKGROUND Perimenopausal women are prone to anxiety and depression due to fluctuating hormone levels,which significantly impair their quality of life.The current treatments have certain limitations.In traditional Chinese medicine,liver-soothing formulas are commonly prescribed for mood-related disorders,but their overall efficacy in perimenopausal anxiety and depression remains uncertain and requires verification through meta-analysis.AIM To provide evidence-based support for clinical decision-making and research,a meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of liver-soothing formulas in treating perimenopausal anxiety and depression.METHODS Relevant studies published up to April 2025 were retrieved from ClinicalTrials.gov,PubMed,Web of Science,EMBASE,and the Cochrane Library.Eligible studies were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.Data were extracted and analyzed using the Stata 12.0 software.RESULTS After searching and screening,12 articles involving 1798 patients(922 in the treatment group and 876 in the control group)were included in the analysis.Meta-analysis showed that the standardized scores for anxiety[standardized mean difference(SMD)=-0.71,95%confidence interval(95%CI):-1.06 to-0.36]and depression(SMD=-0.67,95%CI:-1.06 to-0.27)of the treatment group were lower than those of the control group.Subgroup analysis results revealed that for anxiety,liver-soothing formulas used alone(SMD=-0.34,95%CI:-0.50 to-0.18)or in combination(SMD=-0.88,95%CI:-1.43 to-0.34)both significantly reduced scores compared with the control group.For depression,monotherapy of liversoothing formulas showed no significant statistical difference between the treatment and control groups(SMD=-0.47,95%CI:-1.11 to 0.17),whereas combination therapy produced significantly lower standardized scale scores in the treatment group than in the control group,with a statistically significant difference(SMD=-0.83,95%CI:-1.39 to-0.28).Regarding Greene scores,no statistically significant difference was observed with monotherapy(SMD=0.87,95%CI:-0.32 to 2.06),whereas combination therapy had significantly lower Greene scores(SMD=-0.24,95%CI:-0.44 to-0.04).No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in the occurrence of adverse reactions(odds ratio=0.90,95%CI:0.57-1.43).However,liver-soothing formulas did not affect estrogen levels in perimenopausal women.CONCLUSION Compared with placebo,conventional Western medicine,or other interventions,the monotherapy of liver-soothing formulas demonstrates superior efficacy in treating perimenopausal anxiety.When used as an adjuvant,they exert a synergistic effect in alleviating negative emotions and improving overall perimenopausal symptoms.展开更多
BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG)is a clinically refractory gastric disease often characterized by high recurrence rates and adverse drug reactions.Anwei decoction(AWD),a traditional Chinese medicine formula,...BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG)is a clinically refractory gastric disease often characterized by high recurrence rates and adverse drug reactions.Anwei decoction(AWD),a traditional Chinese medicine formula,has been shown to significantly improve clinical symptoms in patients with CAG,as demonstrated by a multicenter cohort study(overall effective rate:82.5%,P<0.01).However,the unclear molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of AWD limit its international acceptance.AIM To investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of AWD against CAG from an integrated perspective.METHODS In this study,N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine was used to establish a CAG rat model.Serum-derived constituents transferred from AWD were first identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in serum samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Moreover,gastric mucosal tissues were analyzed by quantitative realtime polymerase chain reaction to measure messenger RNA(mRNA)levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome.Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of NLRP3,caspase-1,and interleukin(IL)-1β.To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying AWD treatment,structural alterations of the gut microbiota(GM)and associated metabolites were analyzed using integrated high-throughput sequencing(16S rRNA)and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry based untargeted metabolomics.This comprehensive approach systematically clarified AWD’s multi-target therapeutic mechanisms against CAG.RESULTS AWD notably reduced serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines,such as IL-1β,IL-18,tumor necrosis factor-α,and lipopolysaccharide,demonstrating significant statistical differences(all P<0.01).Additionally,AWD substantially inhibited NLRP3 mRNA expression in gastric mucosal tissue(P<0.01)and concurrently decreased the protein abundance of NLRP3,IL-1β,and caspase-1(all P<0.01),thereby suppressing inflammasome signaling activation.GM analysis indicated that AWD intervention significantly increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria.Associated microbial metabolites likely inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway by modulating immune cell function.Non-targeted metabolomics further indicated that AWD exerted anti-inflammatory effects by regulating critical metabolic pathways,including the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection pathway,autophagy processes,and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchor biosynthesis.CONCLUSION AWD alleviates the pathological progression of CAG through multi-target synergistic mechanisms.On one hand,AWD directly suppresses gastric mucosal inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.On the other hand,AWD remodels intestinal microbiota-metabolite homeostasis,enhances intestinal barrier function,and regulates mucosal immune responses.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized byclinical symptoms of diarrhea and mucopurulent bloody stools, and its incidenceis increasing globally. The etiology and pathogenesis of U...Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized byclinical symptoms of diarrhea and mucopurulent bloody stools, and its incidenceis increasing globally. The etiology and pathogenesis of UC remain elusive. Currenttherapeutic approaches, including anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressiveand immunomodulating agents, are often limited in efficacy and frequently associatedwith adverse drug reactions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to developsafer and more effective treatment strategies to address the limitations of existingtherapies. Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (HQ), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb,has been employed in the treatment of UC for over 2000 years. Recent studieshave demonstrated that HQ contains multiple active components capable oftreating UC through anti-inflammation, immune modulation, intestinal barrierprotection, antioxidant activity, and regulation of the gut microbiota. This paperreviews recent studies on the mechanism of action and clinical trials of HQ intreating UC based on relevant literature, with the aim of providing valuable insightsinto future treatment approaches.展开更多
China’s“common prosperity”policy is a multidimensional pursuit of social and economic progress aimed at full realization by 2050.A CHIEVING common prosperity–prosperity that is universally shared–has been a longs...China’s“common prosperity”policy is a multidimensional pursuit of social and economic progress aimed at full realization by 2050.A CHIEVING common prosperity–prosperity that is universally shared–has been a longstanding aspiration of the Chinese government.展开更多
Profile of Prof.Ning-Li Wang Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering(CAE)Member of the International Academy of Ophthalmology Director,Ophthalmology Center,Beijing Tongren Hospital Dean,School of Ophthalmolo...Profile of Prof.Ning-Li Wang Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering(CAE)Member of the International Academy of Ophthalmology Director,Ophthalmology Center,Beijing Tongren Hospital Dean,School of Ophthalmology,Capital Medical University Director,National Engineering Research Center for Ophthalmic Diagnosis and Treatment National Distinguished Physician Member,Academic Advisory Committee.展开更多
THE Nanjing Yunjin brocade,known for its stunning luster,exquisite patterns,and a wealth of shades,represents the highest level of Chinese brocade craftsmanship.It was the designated textile for the imperial courts of...THE Nanjing Yunjin brocade,known for its stunning luster,exquisite patterns,and a wealth of shades,represents the highest level of Chinese brocade craftsmanship.It was the designated textile for the imperial courts of the Yuan(1206-1368),Ming(1368-1644),and Qing(1616-1911)dynasties,and is still highly regarded to this day.展开更多
文摘When the umbrellas were held up against the tear gas attack in the protest on September 28, 2014, the hot issue raised by the marathon-like Yellow Umbrella Movement was not only the matter of politics but also a coincidence created for the Hong Kong locals to face, or to be faced with an already moot cliche： How the Hongkongese can redef＇me and redeem their almost lost socio-cultural identity, particularly under the increasingly hegemonic influences and the socio-cultural invasion of the mainland after the 1997 Handover. My present paper is not intended to discuss the topic of identity on the platform of politics, or the postcolonial studies such as transculturation or cultural hybridty. But instead, I am far more interested in locating such issue on the aesthetic dimension of collective memory, which is revealed in two local contemporary Hong Kong compositions. In the process of shaping and reshaping a form of＂HongKongeseness＂ in which the composers tend to create and the local listeners tend to experience, albeit transient, can appear in every nuance of the sonic metaphor embedded in the pre-existing indigenous tunes of a self-contained compositional work.
文摘The article delves into the concept of“Chineseness”in contemporary Chinese architecture,a strategic tool for creating distinctive styles rooted in Chinese identity.It serves not only to distinguish projects from market-driven trends but also to establish a pivotal position in the global architectural landscape.“Chineseness”among 24 identified keywords represents a practical strategy embraced by many young architects with international exposure.The traditional Chinese dwelling,a symbol of familial and cultural essence,particularly in the context of home culture,is a primary inspiration for contemporary architects.The research adopts a case study approach,focusing on Tulou-related cases from the last fifteen years,encompassing various building types.The Tulou,a mountain-dwelling with rich cultural connotations,is introduced,reflecting ancient Chinese philosophies in its architectural principles.The case studies,including URBANUS’s“Tulou Collective Housing 2008”and Chengdu’s“Tulou Theater,”demonstrate how Tulou prototypes can be creatively adapted.These designs not only replicate forms but also capture the communal spirit inherent in traditional dwellings.“Stepped Courtyards”by OPEN Architecture reinterprets Tulou typology for a staff dormitory,emphasizing community awareness.In conclusion,the concept of“Chineseness”emerges as a prominent topic,showcasing the dynamic and adaptable nature of traditional Chinese culture and modern architectural expressions.The cases illustrate the evolving intersection between traditional Chinese culture and modern architecture,offering insights into the future trajectory of Chinese architectural culture.The interrelated keywords highlight the nuanced and evolving nature of“Chineseness”in architectural practices.
文摘BACKGROUND:Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast disease mainly caused by endocrine disorders,manifested as abnormal hyperplasia of breast tissue.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine compounds and probiotics have shown good potential in regulating the endocrine system and improving the intestinal microecology,providing new ideas for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.OBJECTIVE:To explore the effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine compounds and fermented probiotic compounds on breast hyperplasia in mice,providing new theoretical and experimental bases for the clinical treatment and prevention of breast hyperplasia.METHODS:(1)Network pharmacology tools were used to predict the anti-breast-hyperplasia activity of Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa),as well as its potential targets and signaling pathways.The databases included:TCMSP,OMIM,GeneCards database,UniProt website,Venny2.1.0 website,Metascape,HERB website,and STRING database,all of which are open-access databases.Network pharmacology can predict and screen key information such as the targets corresponding to the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine,disease targets,and action pathways through network analysis and computer-system analysis.Therefore,it has been increasingly widely used in the research of traditional Chinese medicine.(2)A breast hyperplasia model was induced in mice by injecting estrogen and progesterone.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intraperitoneally with normal saline every day.Mice in the model group and drugadministration groups were injected intraperitoneally with estradiol benzoate injection at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg every day for 25 days.From the 26th day,the injection of estradiol benzoate injection was stopped.Mice in the normal blank group were injected intramuscularly with normal saline every day,and mice in the model group and drug-administration groups were injected intramuscularly with progesterone injection at a concentration of 5 mg/kg for 5 days.After the model was established,each group was given drugs respectively.The normal blank group and the model group were gavaged with 0.2 mL/d of normal saline;the positive blank group(Xiaozheng Pill group)was gavaged with an aqueous solution of Xiaozheng Pill at 0.9 mg/g;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively;the low-,medium-and high-dose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation were gavaged with an aqueous solution of the compound medicine at 0.75,1.5,and 3.0 mg/(g·d)respectively.The administration was continuous for 30 days.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)The results of network pharmacology research showed that the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae(Euphorbia humifusa)contained 46 active ingredients,which were related to 1213 potential targets.After comparison with 588 known breast-hyperplasia targets,it was speculated that 50 of these targets might be related to the direct effect of the compound on breast hyperplasia.(2)After drug intervention,there was no significant change in the high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae compared with the normal blank group.The liver indicators of the other intervention groups all significantly decreased(P<0.05).(3)In terms of kidney and uterine indicators,the medium-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae decreased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.05).In terms of the uterine index,the model group increased significantly compared with the normal blank group(P<0.01).(4)After 1-month drug treatment,the number of lobules and acini in the breast tissue of the Xiaozheng Pill group,the low,medium,and high-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae,the low,medium,and highdose groups of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation decreased,and the duct openings narrowed.With the increase of drug dose,diffuse hyperplasia of breast tissue was significantly improved.(5)The ELISA results showed that compared with the model group,the estrogen level was lower in the medium-dose group of traditional Chinese medicine-bacteria fermentation after the intervention(P<0.05).In addition,the follicle-stimulating hormone level in the low-dose group of Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae was lower than that of the model group(P<0.05).(6)The intervention in the mouse model led to changes in the abundance of short chain fatty acids and intestinal flora in all groups.To conclude,the Compound Herba Gueldenstaedtiae and its probiotic fermentation products significantly improved mammary gland hyperplasia in mice by regulating hormone levels,improving the structure of the gut microbiota,and increasing the content of shortchain fatty acids,providing new ideas and potential sources of drugs for the treatment of breast hyperplasia.
文摘Born in Penglai,Shandong Province in 1942,Jiang Baolin is currently working as a doctoral supervisor at the Chinese National Academy of Arts.He’s also a committee member and researcher at the China National Academy of Painting.He graduated from Zhejiang Academy of Fine Arts(now China Academy of Art),studying under such masters as Lu Yanshao and Gu Kunbo,and later pursued his master’s degree at the Central Academy of Fine Arts,sitting at the feet of masters like Li Keran.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82204610)Qihang Talent Program(L2022046)+1 种基金the Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences(CI2021A04013)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Public Welfare Research Institutes(ZZ15-YQ-041 and L2021029).
文摘Background:Cyperi Rhizoma,derived from Cyperus rotundus L.,is a widely used medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with Shandong Province recognized as its geo-authentic habitat.However,the quality of Cyperi Rhizoma varies significantly across different regions,potentially influencing its therapeutic efficacy.This study investigates the influence of geographic origin on the chemical composition and overall quality of Cyperi Rhizoma.Methods:A comprehensive approach,including traditional quality assessment,GC-MS(g as c hromatography-m ass s pectrometry),RP-HPLC(r everse p hase h igh-p erformance l iquid c hromatography),and FT-IR(f ourier t ransform i nfrared s pectroscopy)techniques,was employed to analyze Cyperi Rhizoma samples from Shandong Province.These methods examined the physical appearance,chemical profile,and content variations,particularly focusing onα-cyperone.Results:Traditional quality assessments revealed noticeable differences in the external characteristics of the samples.GC-MS analysis identified a variety of unique chemical constituents,while RP-HPLC and FT-IR showed significant variations inα-cyperone content,with higher levels found in Shandong samples.Conclusion:These results demonstrate that geographic origin is a critical determinant of Cyperi Rhizoma quality,with Shandong specimens exhibiting superiorα-cyperone levels and characteristic phytochemical profiles.This validates the geo-authenticity concept in TCM and provides actionable data for developing evidence-based quality standards,suggesting that provenance should be prioritized in medicinal material selection and pharmacopeial specifications.
文摘Nanjing,capital city of present-day Jiangsu Province and once the capital of six dynasties,is home to a rich collection of cultural relics that bear witness to thousands of years of Chinese civilization.
基金funding by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82174492)National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion Project(N o.ZJJBGS2024002-1).
文摘Background: The human gut microbiome is an important target for disease treatment and prevention. Various microbial species within the complex ecosystem of the microbiome have been shown to play important roles in disease. Identification of bioactive materials capable of altering the abundances of these species both safely and effectively is a major goal in microbiome research. Many traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been reported to affect the composition of the gut microbiome. Here, we summarize studies that have used TCMs to alter the gut microbiome and discuss the response relationship between TCMs and gut microbial species. Methods: We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and Knowledge Network databases using the terms “traditional Chinese medicine,” “gut microbiome,” and specific system disease names (endocrine, immune, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive). Studies were excluded if irrelevant or if the experimental procedures were unclear. Results: TCMs have been reported to affect a wide range of gut microbial taxa spanning major phyla, including Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobiota, Actinobacteria, and Fusobacteria. In all, 54 TCMs including compounds and extracts have been tested in rodents and 30 have been examined in human trials. Almost all studies have reported positive results in regulating the gut microbiome as well as modulating corresponding phenotypes, spanning diseases of the endocrine, immune, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. Gut species, including Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Fusobacterium, Faecalibacterium, and E. coli, were found to be regulated by 19 TCMs. A network was constructed to visualize the interactions between TCMs and these taxa. Conclusion: There exists a complex and close relationship between intestinal microflora and diseases. Sufficient experimental data and studies have proved that the imbalance of intestinal microflora affects health by mediating metabolism, immune regulation, inflammation and signal transduction. Many characteristic alterations of intestinal microflora are positively correlated with diseases, so intestinal microflora has become a potential risk index and treatment target for many diseases. Many TCMs affect the relative abundances of microbial species in the gut, and therefore may be useful for modulating the gut microbiome. This review provides a reference for prioritizing candidate TCMs from the enormous repertoire of such medicines to test which specific gut microbes are targeted.
文摘The Double Take column looks at a single topic from an African and Chinese perspective.This month,we discuss what makes a job meaningful.Look Beyond the Surface.What makes a job meaningful?The answer is far from universal.For some,it’s the stability of a pay cheque and a clear path for career growth.
基金supported by Healthy China initiative of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.889042).
文摘Currently,the number of patients with myopia is increasing rapidly across the globe.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with its long history and rich experience,has shown promise in effectively managing and treating this condition.Nevertheless,considering the vast amount of research that is currently being conducted,focusing on the utilization of TCM in the management of myopia,there is an urgent requirement for a thorough and comprehensive review.The review would serve to clarify the practical applications of TCM within this specific field,and it would also aim to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that are at play,providing a deeper understanding of how TCM principles can be effectively integrated into modern medical practices.Here,some modern medical pathogenesis of myopia and appropriate TCM techniques studies are summarized in the prevention and treatment of myopia.Further,we discussed the potential mechanisms and the future research directions of TCM against myopia.Identifying these mechanisms is crucial for understanding how TCM can be effectively utilized in this context.The combination of various TCM methods or the combination of traditional Chinese and Western medicine is of great significance for the prevention and control of myopia in the future.
基金supported by the Innovative Team Project of Ordinary Universities in Guangdong Province(No.2022KCXTD016).
文摘Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea(CID)is a major concern for cancer patients and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.Currently,the clinical management of CID is limited.The utilization of antidiarrheal medications,such as loperamide and octreotide,is relatively limited because of their unsatisfactory efficacy and adverse effects.In recent years,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has attracted great interest because of its beneficial effect in treating CID,which has multitarget and low-toxicity therapeutic characteristics.TCM exhibits remarkable therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment of CID.It can alleviate and treat CID by regulating chemical drug metabolism,improving the integrity of the intestinal barrier,stimulating proliferation while suppressing the apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells,ameliorating oxidative stress and inflammation and regulating bile acids and aquaporins.However,large-scale,randomized,double-blind clinical trials of TCM for the treatment of CID are lacking,and most preclinical experiments have not been translated to clinical trials.Accordingly,this review highlights the clinical efficacy and molecular mechanisms of TCM against CID via PubMed,Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure and proposes that future research on TCM against CID should focus on strengthening the connection from bench to bed,which may help to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutic potential of TCM against CID.
文摘Discussions on Chinese modernization are offering African countries both conceptual inspiration and practical references as they explore their own sustainable development paths.
文摘This editorial examines the emerging potential of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)in enhancing postoperative recovery following gastroenteroscopy,highlighted by a 2025 randomized controlled trial by Hong et al.The study,involving 120 patients,demonstrates that meridian flow injection(MFI)combined with transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation(TEAS)significantly improves gastrointestinal(GI)function,evidenced by a reduced time to first defecation(3.20±1.04 days vs 3.98±1.27 days,P<0.001),lowers stress biomarkers(e.g.,reduced cortisol and norepinephrine),and enhances clinical efficacy(93.33%vs 75.00%,P=0.006).Leveraging TCM’s five-element theory and Ziwu Liuzhu timing,the intervention targets key acupoints such as Zusanli(ST36)with a herbal paste comprising Qingpi,Houpu,and rhubarb,delivered transdermally to optimize bioavailability.This approach harmonizes ancient TCM principles with contemporary evidence-based practice,offering a holistic strategy to address postoperative nausea,delayed motility,and patient discomfort.Currently,integrative methods like MFI-TEAS are gaining traction,supported by recent meta-analyses that affirm TEAS’s efficacy in accelerating GI recovery across surgical contexts,including shortened times to first exhaust and defecation.This reflects a growing recognition of TCM’s role in perioperative care amidst rising global endoscopy demands.Looking forward,future research should prioritize multicenter,doubleblinded trials to enhance generalizability,adhere to standardized reporting frameworks such as CONSORT and STRICTA,and employ advanced tools like multiomics and functional magnetic resonance imaging to elucidate mechanistic pathways,including gut-brain axis modulation and microbiota-immune interactions.Such developments promise to refine these interventions,fostering a seamless integration of TCM with Western medicine and delivering tailored,patientcentered solutions to improve postoperative outcomes worldwide.
文摘As a Burundian doctoral student at Nanjing University,my personal journey is closely intertwined with China’s development in the new era and the deepening China-Africa partnership.Recently,my experiences have given me a deeper appreciation of the importance of people-to-people exchanges between China and Africa.
文摘BACKGROUND Perimenopausal women are prone to anxiety and depression due to fluctuating hormone levels,which significantly impair their quality of life.The current treatments have certain limitations.In traditional Chinese medicine,liver-soothing formulas are commonly prescribed for mood-related disorders,but their overall efficacy in perimenopausal anxiety and depression remains uncertain and requires verification through meta-analysis.AIM To provide evidence-based support for clinical decision-making and research,a meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of liver-soothing formulas in treating perimenopausal anxiety and depression.METHODS Relevant studies published up to April 2025 were retrieved from ClinicalTrials.gov,PubMed,Web of Science,EMBASE,and the Cochrane Library.Eligible studies were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.Data were extracted and analyzed using the Stata 12.0 software.RESULTS After searching and screening,12 articles involving 1798 patients(922 in the treatment group and 876 in the control group)were included in the analysis.Meta-analysis showed that the standardized scores for anxiety[standardized mean difference(SMD)=-0.71,95%confidence interval(95%CI):-1.06 to-0.36]and depression(SMD=-0.67,95%CI:-1.06 to-0.27)of the treatment group were lower than those of the control group.Subgroup analysis results revealed that for anxiety,liver-soothing formulas used alone(SMD=-0.34,95%CI:-0.50 to-0.18)or in combination(SMD=-0.88,95%CI:-1.43 to-0.34)both significantly reduced scores compared with the control group.For depression,monotherapy of liversoothing formulas showed no significant statistical difference between the treatment and control groups(SMD=-0.47,95%CI:-1.11 to 0.17),whereas combination therapy produced significantly lower standardized scale scores in the treatment group than in the control group,with a statistically significant difference(SMD=-0.83,95%CI:-1.39 to-0.28).Regarding Greene scores,no statistically significant difference was observed with monotherapy(SMD=0.87,95%CI:-0.32 to 2.06),whereas combination therapy had significantly lower Greene scores(SMD=-0.24,95%CI:-0.44 to-0.04).No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in the occurrence of adverse reactions(odds ratio=0.90,95%CI:0.57-1.43).However,liver-soothing formulas did not affect estrogen levels in perimenopausal women.CONCLUSION Compared with placebo,conventional Western medicine,or other interventions,the monotherapy of liver-soothing formulas demonstrates superior efficacy in treating perimenopausal anxiety.When used as an adjuvant,they exert a synergistic effect in alleviating negative emotions and improving overall perimenopausal symptoms.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81860843Guangxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Project,No.GZSY23-36 and No.GXZYA20240150。
文摘BACKGROUND Chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG)is a clinically refractory gastric disease often characterized by high recurrence rates and adverse drug reactions.Anwei decoction(AWD),a traditional Chinese medicine formula,has been shown to significantly improve clinical symptoms in patients with CAG,as demonstrated by a multicenter cohort study(overall effective rate:82.5%,P<0.01).However,the unclear molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of AWD limit its international acceptance.AIM To investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of AWD against CAG from an integrated perspective.METHODS In this study,N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine was used to establish a CAG rat model.Serum-derived constituents transferred from AWD were first identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in serum samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Moreover,gastric mucosal tissues were analyzed by quantitative realtime polymerase chain reaction to measure messenger RNA(mRNA)levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome.Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of NLRP3,caspase-1,and interleukin(IL)-1β.To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying AWD treatment,structural alterations of the gut microbiota(GM)and associated metabolites were analyzed using integrated high-throughput sequencing(16S rRNA)and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry based untargeted metabolomics.This comprehensive approach systematically clarified AWD’s multi-target therapeutic mechanisms against CAG.RESULTS AWD notably reduced serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines,such as IL-1β,IL-18,tumor necrosis factor-α,and lipopolysaccharide,demonstrating significant statistical differences(all P<0.01).Additionally,AWD substantially inhibited NLRP3 mRNA expression in gastric mucosal tissue(P<0.01)and concurrently decreased the protein abundance of NLRP3,IL-1β,and caspase-1(all P<0.01),thereby suppressing inflammasome signaling activation.GM analysis indicated that AWD intervention significantly increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria.Associated microbial metabolites likely inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway by modulating immune cell function.Non-targeted metabolomics further indicated that AWD exerted anti-inflammatory effects by regulating critical metabolic pathways,including the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection pathway,autophagy processes,and glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchor biosynthesis.CONCLUSION AWD alleviates the pathological progression of CAG through multi-target synergistic mechanisms.On one hand,AWD directly suppresses gastric mucosal inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation.On the other hand,AWD remodels intestinal microbiota-metabolite homeostasis,enhances intestinal barrier function,and regulates mucosal immune responses.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82374200Construction of Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance and Innovation Development Demonstration Pilot Projects in Pudong New Area-High-Level Research-Oriented Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Construction,No.YC-2023-0901.
文摘Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized byclinical symptoms of diarrhea and mucopurulent bloody stools, and its incidenceis increasing globally. The etiology and pathogenesis of UC remain elusive. Currenttherapeutic approaches, including anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressiveand immunomodulating agents, are often limited in efficacy and frequently associatedwith adverse drug reactions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to developsafer and more effective treatment strategies to address the limitations of existingtherapies. Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (HQ), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb,has been employed in the treatment of UC for over 2000 years. Recent studieshave demonstrated that HQ contains multiple active components capable oftreating UC through anti-inflammation, immune modulation, intestinal barrierprotection, antioxidant activity, and regulation of the gut microbiota. This paperreviews recent studies on the mechanism of action and clinical trials of HQ intreating UC based on relevant literature, with the aim of providing valuable insightsinto future treatment approaches.
文摘China’s“common prosperity”policy is a multidimensional pursuit of social and economic progress aimed at full realization by 2050.A CHIEVING common prosperity–prosperity that is universally shared–has been a longstanding aspiration of the Chinese government.
文摘Profile of Prof.Ning-Li Wang Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering(CAE)Member of the International Academy of Ophthalmology Director,Ophthalmology Center,Beijing Tongren Hospital Dean,School of Ophthalmology,Capital Medical University Director,National Engineering Research Center for Ophthalmic Diagnosis and Treatment National Distinguished Physician Member,Academic Advisory Committee.
文摘THE Nanjing Yunjin brocade,known for its stunning luster,exquisite patterns,and a wealth of shades,represents the highest level of Chinese brocade craftsmanship.It was the designated textile for the imperial courts of the Yuan(1206-1368),Ming(1368-1644),and Qing(1616-1911)dynasties,and is still highly regarded to this day.
