The evolution of cancer genomic medicine in Japan and the role of the National Cancer Center Japan

The journey to implement cancer genomic medicine(CGM)in oncology practice began in the 1980s,which is considered the dawn of genetic and genomic cancer research.At the time,a variety of activating oncogenic alterations and their functional significance were unveiled in cancer cells,which led to the development of molecular targeted therapies in the 2000s and beyond.Although CGM is still a relatively new discipline and it is difficult to predict to what extent CGM will benefit the diverse pool of cancer patients,the National Cancer Center(NCC)of Japan has already contributed considerably to CGM advancement for the conquest of cancer.Looking back at these past achievements of the NCC,we predict that the future of CGM will involve the following:1)A biobank of paired cancerous and non-cancerous tissues and cells from various cancer types and stages will be developed.The quantity and quality of these samples will be compatible with omics analyses.All biobank samples will be linked to longitudinal clinical information.2)New technologies,such as whole-genome sequencing and artificial intelligence,will be introduced and new bioresources for functional and pharmacologic analyses(e.g.,a patient-derived xenograft library)will be systematically deployed.3)Fast and bidirectional translational research(bench-to-bedside and bedside-to-bench)performed by basic researchers and clinical investigators,preferably working alongside each other at the same institution,will be implemented;4)Close collaborations between academia,industry,regulatory bodies,and funding agencies will be established.5)There will be an investment in the other branch of CGM,personalized preventive medicine,based on the individual's genetic predisposition to cancer.

Five commonly used traditional Chinese medicine formulas in the treatment of ulcerative colitis:A network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Currently,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)formulas are commonly being used as adjunctive therapy for ulcerative colitis in China.Network meta-analysis,a quantitative and comprehensive analytical method,can systematically compare the effects of different adjunctive treatment options for ulcerative colitis,providing scientific evidence for clinical decision-making.AIM To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of commonly used TCM for the treatment of ulcerative colitis(UC)in clinical practice through a network metaanalysis.METHODS Clinical randomized controlled trials of these TCM formulas used for the adjuvant treatment of UC were searched from the establishment of the databases to July 1,2022.Studies that met the inclusion criteria were screened and evaluated for literature quality and risk of bias according to the Cochrane 5.1 standard.The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using ReviewManager(RevMan)5.4,and a funnel plot was constructed to test for publication bias.ADDIS 1.16 statistical software was used to perform statistical analysis of the treatment measures and derive the network relationship and ranking diagrams of the various intervention measures.RESULTS A total of 64 randomized controlled trials involving 5456 patients with UC were included in this study.The adjuvant treatment of UC using five TCM formulations was able to improve the clinical outcome of the patients.Adjuvant treatment with Baitouweng decoction(BTWT)showed a significant effect[mean difference=36.22,95%confidence interval(CI):7.63 to 65.76].For the reduction of tumor necrosis factor in patients with UC,adjunctive therapy with BTWT(mean difference=−9.55,95%CI:−17.89 to−1.41),Shenlingbaizhu powder[SLBZS;odds ratio(OR)=0.19,95%CI:0.08 to 0.39],and Shaoyao decoction(OR=−23.02,95%CI:−33.64 to−13.14)was effective.Shaoyao decoction was more effective than BTWT(OR=0.12,95%CI:0.03 to 0.39),SLBZS(OR=0.19,95%CI:0.08 to 0.39),and Xi Lei powder(OR=0.34,95%CI:0.13 to 0.81)in reducing tumor necrosis factor and the recurrence rate of UC.CONCLUSION TCM combined with mesalazine is more effective than mesalazine alone in the treatment of UC.

21st century critical care medicine:An overview

Critical care medicine in the 21st century has witnessed remarkable advancements that have significantly improved patient outcomes in intensive care units(ICUs).This abstract provides a concise summary of the latest developments in critical care,highlighting key areas of innovation.Recent advancements in critical care include Precision Medicine:Tailoring treatments based on individual patient characteristics,genomics,and biomarkers to enhance the effectiveness of therapies.The objective is to describe the recent advancements in Critical Care Medicine.Telemedicine:The integration of telehealth technologies for remote patient monitoring and consultation,facilitating timely interventions.Artificial intelligence(AI):AI-driven tools for early disease detection,predictive analytics,and treatment optimization,enhancing clinical decision-making.Organ Support:Advanced life support systems,such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy provide better organ support.Infection Control:Innovative infection control measures to combat emerging pathogens and reduce healthcare-associated infections.Ventilation Strategies:Precision ventilation modes and lung-protective strategies to minimize ventilatorinduced lung injury.Sepsis Management:Early recognition and aggressive management of sepsis with tailored interventions.Patient-Centered Care:A shift towards patient-centered care focusing on psychological and emotional wellbeing in addition to medical needs.We conducted a thorough literature search on PubMed,EMBASE,and Scopus using our tailored strategy,incorporating keywords such as critical care,telemedicine,and sepsis management.A total of 125 articles meeting our criteria were included for qualitative synthesis.To ensure reliability,we focused only on articles published in the English language within the last two decades,excluding animal studies,in vitro/molecular studies,and non-original data like editorials,letters,protocols,and conference abstracts.These advancements reflect a dynamic landscape in critical care medicine,where technology,research,and patient-centered approaches converge to improve the quality of care and save lives in ICUs.The future of critical care promises even more innovative solutions to meet the evolving challenges of modern medicine.

Evidence-based Clinical Chinese Medicine:What Has Changed Over the Past 20 Years

Chinese medicine has been used for centuries to treat a range of health conditions.This history has produced a wealth of classical literature,case studies and clinical research data detailing its use and effectiveness.However,high-quality and conclusive evidence that meets modern requirements for clinical decision support is lacking.This evidence gap limits the integration of Chinese medicine with contemporary medicine,which in turn limits global access and acceptance of Chinese medicine as a form of safe and effective health care.Over the past 20 years,researchers and organisations around the world,including the World Health Organization(WHO)and United Nations,have worked to support the integration of traditional medicines,such as Chinese medicine,with conventional medicines to improve global health care.This paper provides an overview of Chinese medicine studies published in the top four general medical journals(BMJ,JAMA,Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine)from February 2005 to February 2024 in the past 20 years to highlight the progress in the development of this evidence base.It also highlights key actions taken to promote evidence-based clinical Chinese medicine,including product and practitioner regulation,formalising education standards,and international collaborations.Research conducted at the China-Australia International Research Centre for Chinese Medicine demonstrates the benefits of such a collaboration.Through development of its unique and inclusive‘whole-evidence’approach,plus clinical studies and systematic reviews,the Centre has significantly contributed to the evidence base for clinical Chinese medicine.In addition,its high-impact papers and groundbreaking monographs have been cited in international conventional medicine guidelines.While progress has certainly been made during the past 20 years to build a stronger evidence base for clinical Chinese medicine,there is still a considerable gap that limits its integration with conventional medicine.Future funding and research are needed to continue this work and achieve to safe,effective and accessible traditional medicine as part of the WHO’s Universal Health Coverage strategy.

Integration of traditional,complementary,and alternative medicine with modern biomedicine:the scientization,evidence,and challenges for integration of traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional medicine has garnered significant global recognition,with an estimated 80%of the global population using it.Therefore,it is essential to fully understand the integration of traditional medicines into current healthcare systems.This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the standard process to modernize traditional medicine scientifically in the context of modern biomedicine,further termed here as“scientization”.Specifically,we aim to summarize the advancements made in understanding the efficacy,effectiveness,and underlying mechanisms of herbal medicine.We also examined the transition from experience-to evidence-based medicine during acupuncture.Furthermore,we explore the development of universal safety and quality control standards.Finally,we discuss international trade and export markets for Chinese medical products.The development and integration of traditional medicine have allowed it to further improve human health,resulting in a more comprehensive health solution for the global population.

Research on the development methodology for clinical practice guidelines for organic integration of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine

Integrated traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)and Western medicine(WM)is a new medical science grounded in the knowledge bases of both TCM and WM,which then forms a unique modern medical system in China.Integrated TCM and WM has a long history in China,and has made important achievements in the process of clinical diagnosis and treatment.However,the methodological defects in currently published clinical practice guidelines(CPGs)limit its development.The organic integration of TCM and WM is a deeper integration of TCM and WM.To realize the progression of"integration"to"organic integration",a targeted and standardized guideline development methodology is needed.Therefore,the purpose of this study is to establish a standardized development procedure for clinical practice guidelines for the organic integration of TCM and WM to promote the systematic integration of TCM and WM research results into clinical practice guidelines in order to achieve optimal results as the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

Chinese Medicine,Acupuncture and Science

Ever since the introduction of Western biomedicine into China, there has been friction between proponents of this new approach, and proponents of the traditional medical practices that had evolved over thousands of years in China. For the most part, this friction has been couched in the unexamined assumption that Western medicine is based on science, while Chinese medicine is not. This article will examine that assumption, which in this author’s opinion is unjustified and incorrect. Having practiced acupuncture for the past 50 years, after receiving my doctoral degrees in medicine and physiology, my thinking on this topic has also evolved over time. I will begin this article with some historical information that bears on the topic under discussion, followed by my personal ideas about how to resolve the confiicts that have arisen.

Model informed precision medicine of Chinese herbal medicines formulas-A multi-scale mechanistic intelligent model

Recent trends suggest that Chinese herbal medicine formulas(CHM formulas)are promising treatments for complex diseases.To characterize the precise syndromes,precise diseases and precise targets of the precise targets between complex diseases and CHM formulas,we developed an artificial intelligence-based quantitative predictive algorithm(DeepTCM).DeepTCM has gone through multilevel model calibration and validation against a comprehensive set of herb and disease data so that it accurately captures the complex cellular signaling,molecular and theoretical levels of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM).As an example,our model simulated the optimal CHM formulas for the treatment of coronary heart disease(CHD)with depression,and through model sensitivity analysis,we calculated the balanced scoring of the formulas.Furthermore,we constructed a biological knowledge graph representing interactions by associating herb-target and gene-disease interactions.Finally,we experimentally confirmed the therapeutic effect and pharmacological mechanism of a novel model-predicted intervention in humans and mice.This novel multiscale model opened up a new avenue to combine“disease syndrome”and“macro micro”system modeling to facilitate translational research in CHM formulas.

Introduction of Western Medicines into China and Improvement on Decoctions during Modern China

During the late Qing dynasty(1840 A.D.-1912 A.D.),a large quantity of Western medicines entered China,which continuously impacted the traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)market and revealed the shortcomings of Chinese medicines.Some personages in the TCM community followed the trend of learning from the West,and attempted to reform TCM,with the improvement on decoction becoming an important aspect of this effort.Through debates and trials,the improvement on decoction underwent three stages of conceptual evolution:“taking Chinese medicines as the foundation and referring to the dosage forms of Western medicines”,“introducing Western techniques to serve the preparation of decoctions”and“integrating the theories of TCM and Western medicine to improve decoctions”.The study highlights the effective complementarity between modern TCM and Western medicine in the field of pharmacy,and provides valuable experience and support for the reevaluation of the value of TCM in contemporary society.

Research progress of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of endocrine metabolic diseases in 2023

This study aimed to provide a comprehensive review of the research progress in Chinese medicine in the treatment of endocrine metabolic diseases in 2023,covering traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)monomers,TCM extracts,and TCM combinations,including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications,obesity,hyperuricaemia,and thyroid disorders.After systematic sorting and summary,we found that in 2023,the research focusing on the application of TCM for endocrine metabolic diseases was still on the mechanism of action at the cellular and molecular levels,which not only influenced the classical pathways of lipid metabolism,but also delved into the key mechanisms of anti-inflammation,anti-oxidation,anti-insulin resistance,and so on.Additionally,TCM has shown remarkable results in the treatment of endocrine metabolic diseases by improving intestinal flora disorders and abnormal cellular iron death.These research results provide valuable ideas,methods,and tools for TCM in the prevention and treatment of endocrine metabolic diseases,and provide important references and guidance for future research and practice.

Study of the Management and Disposal Practices of Unused or Out-of-Date Medicines by Households in the Municipality of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Introduction: Not all medicines that pass-through consumers’ hands are used, and some often expire in households. These health products can be sources of accidental risks and pollution when they are not properly disposed of. In Burkina Faso, there are as yet no guidelines for the disposal of unused medicines in households. The aim of this study was to estimate the extent of household possession of unused or expired medicines, and to describe attitudes and disposal practices. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study covering households in the Ouagadougou commune conducted from June to August 2021. Two-stage stratified sampling was used: selection of Enumeration Zones (EZs) and selection of households, with each EZ comprising several households. Data collection was based on direct interviews using a structured questionnaire. Data were processed using Epi Info software version 7.2.4.0. Results: In total, 417 household residents were surveyed out of the planned 423 households, corresponding to a completion rate of 98.58% compared with the initial sample. Among the respondents, 79.62% had unused and/or expired medicines in their household. A total of 2562 drug packaging units were counted, for a total weight of 121.90 kg. Nearly 75% were aware that improper disposal was a danger to the environment. Some respondents kept their unused medicines at home until they expired (43.41%), and disposed of them mainly by throwing them in the household garbage (75.58%). The majority (79%) were in favor of the government setting up a take-back program for these medicines. Conclusion: The introduction of a take-back program for unused or out-of-date medicines will ensure safer disposal of medicines, and better protection for households and the environment.

Chen Shigong,Founder of“TCM Orthodox School of External Medicine”

Chen Shigong,styled name Yuren,was also known by the literary name Ruoxu.Coming from Donghaichongchuan(present Nantong City,Jiangsu Province)he was a famous traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)specialist of external medicine of the Ming Dynasty(1368-1644).The Orthodox Lineage of External Medicine(Wai Ke Zheng Zong)written by him has been valued as the founder of the TCM Orthodox School of External Medicine.

Medcheck:A novel software for automated de-formulation of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)prescriptions by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry

Prescriptions are the main clinical application of traditional Chinese medicines(TCMs).Common forms include Chinese patent medicines,Kampo formulas,and hospital decoctions.A new pre-scription called“famous classical formulas”is recently developed and expected to boom in the market.Identifying constituent me-dicinal plants in prescriptions is critical for new drug development and quality control[1],which could avoid safety issues from adulteration or substandard ingredients,as seen in the notorious Longdan Xiegan Pill event.

Growth of Chinese Medicine in Iran: Past, Present, and Prospects

The international recognition of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has continuously increased,and that medical practice has gradually become incorporated into the medical systems of many nations.As an important country in the Belt and Road Initiative,Iran has enormous potential for cooperation with China in medical and health care.High-level officials of the two countries attach great importance to cooperation in both areas.Despite the recent rapid development of TCM in Iran,that medical practice still faces many problems;examples here are the lack of practitioners of TCM as well as the paucity of comprehensive cooperation among herbal medicine factories,publishing houses,traditional medicine colleges,and universities in the two countries.The present study collected and analyzed materials related to the practice of TCM in Iran;it made a deep examination of the current situation,problems,and development prospects regarding TCM in Iran with the aim of providing ideas and references to promote the international development of that form of medicine.Following an analysis of the development trends of TCM in Iran in recent years,it became evident that the prospects for TCM in that country are extensive,and the practice has excellent potential.

Patients’Knowledge, Attitude and Practices on Disposal Methods of Expired and Unused Medicines: Implication for Creation of Drug Take-Back Program

Background: Handling of medicines is a day-to-day activity by patients and many health care providers. However, multiple studies have brought to light inappropriate disposal methods for expired and unused medication (EUM). Improper disposal of expired and unused medicines is hazardous both to humans and the environment. Objective: This sought to measure patients’ knowledge, attitude, and practices on disposal methods of EUM. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 384 patients at three outpatient pharmacies at the University Teaching Hospitals (UTHs). The structured questionnaire was used to collect data and STAT version 15.1 was used to analyse the data. Results: 384 respondents participated in this study and, at some point, had EUM. In this study, 356 (92.7%) of the participants reported that they had never heard of a drug take-back system. Most of the participants 285 (74.2%) and 239 (62.2%) kept and donated their unused medicine, respectively. Additionally, 244 (63.5%), 212 (55.2%), and 176 (44.8%) of the participants disposed of expired medicines in the bin or garbage, flushed them in toilets or sinks, or burned them, respectively. Occupation was significantly associated with unsafe disposal of unused medicine [P-value = 0.019]. Conclusion and Relevance: Knowledge of safe disposal methods for EUM was good amongst most participants. However, used unsafe disposal methods. The majority of the participants exhibited positive attitude concerning safe disposal methods. This study highlights the need for drug-take-back program creation in Zambia.

Matching traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine-based research:Advanced nutraceutical development for proactive gastric cancer prevention

Gastric cancer(GC),the third leading cause of cancer-related death globally,is complex and heterogeneous.This review explores multidisciplinary investigations of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)combined with Western medical practices,emphasizing the development of nutraceuticals for cancer prevention.Using advanced analytical chemistry and food chemistry techniques,this study investigated how TCM components may be optimized for nutraceutical development.Focusing on molecular interactions with GC pathways,particularly the NF-κB,PI3K/Akt,and Wnt/β-catenin pathways,we examined the effects of TCM polyherbal formulas,extracts,and isolated compounds.These agents modulate apoptosis and cellular proliferation,underscoring their potential in preventive strategies.The convergence of nutraceutical and medicine food homology studies highlights a significant shift towards integrating TCM-derived compounds in a preventive health framework.This approach aims not only to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects but also to champion a preventive paradigm using personalized medicine to advance proactive health maintenance and disease prevention.The combination of TCM and western medical practices offers promising avenues for future research and practical applications in GC prevention.

A Brief History of the Development of Hui Medicine

The Hui Medicine in China, as an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, has a long history. It originated from the unique medical knowledge and practices of the Hui ethnic group and impacted the health of people of all ethnic groups in the whole nation. Over time, it has continuously absorbed and integrated the essence of various medical systems. In ancient times, Hui doctors made important contributions with their superb medical skills. They passed on their medical wisdom from generation to generation. In modern times, with the development of science and technology, Hui Medicine has also been constantly evolving and innovating, combining modern medical concepts and technologies. It has played an active role in protecting people’s health and promoting medical progress in China. Although facing challenges, it still strives to inherit and develop, showing strong vitality.

An Ultimate Approach to Retarding the Aging Process by Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine

Aging and death are unavoidable in life. While immortality may be impossible, many people dream of living a long and healthy life. Throughout history, humans have searched for ways to stay young, but have not found an effective way. This may be because the methods used do not target the causes of aging directly. To address this, we investigated how to delay aging using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine approaches. In this article, we will explain the causes of aging in the context of TCM and Western medicine and suggest methods to delay it. By integrating TCM and Western medicine, I hope to help everyone age healthily and enjoy a long life.

Clinical research report on traditional Chinese patent medicines and traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions(2022)

Objective:The paper is to comprehensively summarize and analyze the basic situation and methodological quality of clinical randomized controlled trials(RCTs)of traditional Chinese patent medicines and traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions published in 2022,to provide evidence and reasonable suggestions for the advancement of clinical research and the formulation of policies and guidelines.Methods:The Evidence Database System of clinical evidence-based evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine was searched,and data from China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),PubMed,and other databases were supplemented.The search duration was from January 1,2022,to December 31,2022.RCTs of traditional Chinese patent medicines and traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions were included as the source of clinical evidence,and published information,sample size,intervention,control measures,treatment course,methodological quality,and key link report were analyzed and evaluated.Results:A total of 1,464 RCTs of traditional Chinese patent medicines were included,which comprised 667 types of traditional Chinese patent medicines;“traditional Chinese patent medicines+Western medicine vs.Western medicine”was the most widely used intervention and control setting,involving 417 RCTs(28.48%).A total of 245 RCTs of traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions were included,comprising 55 types of traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions.“Decoction+conventional treatment vs.conventional treatment”was the most widely used intervention and control setting,with 87 RCTs(35.51%).Published RCTs on traditional Chinese patent medicines and traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions were limited by the study design and implementation.Most“allocation concealment”and“blinding of patients and personnel”were rated as medium to high risk.There are insufficient reports on key research links such as experimental registration and ethical approval.Conclusions:The number of RCTs on traditional Chinese patent medicines has decreased in 2022,but there has been a slight improvement in the research quality and impact.There are relatively few studies on traditional Chinese classic famous prescriptions.Measures must be taken to improve clinical trial design,implementation,and reporting.Methodological experts should be invited to provide professional technical guidance on the trial design.In the research implementation process,attention should be paid to quality control,particularly the standardization of the randomized execution.

Special Issue: The Global Cross-cultural Integration of TCM in the Mainstream Healthcare, Medical Education and the Practice of Medicine

Ioannis Solos Ph.D.,M.D.(China),L.Ac.currently serves as President and CEO at the Saint George Clinic and Research Institute,Scottsdale,AZ.,and Associate Editor for Chinese Medicine and Culture.Professor Solos has earned his Master of Medicine in Traditional Diagnosis at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,and his Medical Ph.D.in Chinese and Western Integrative Medicine at the Jinan University in Guangzhou.He practices and teaches integrative clinical medicine,Jing Fang(经方TCM formulas),martial lineage acupuncture,and his personalized style of“tendon and fascia reconditioning manipulations for bone and joint disease”.