In this article, I argue for the conceptual expansion of 'medical holism' in philosophy beyond anti-reductionism. I will suggest that medical holism has three main conceptual strands: anti-reductionist, anti-oppressive, and plural medicine. I will show that this 'conceptual family' has roots in historians of medicine's understanding of medical holism as well as in philosophical work that traditionally has not been called to mind when discussing medical holism in philosophy. Identifying the strands of medical holism would allow us to better understand what new medical initiatives promise when they use the concept of holism and what should be criticized when these promises are not delivered.

Acori tatarinowii Rhizoma-Curcumae Radix herbal pair ameliorates cognitive impairment and suppresses neuro-inflammation via Ca2+/CaMKKβ/AMPK/mTOR pathway in Alzheimer's disease.

The anti-obesity potential of Cassiae Semen: A review based on ethnopharmacology and modern pharmacology.

Reproductive toxicity of Fructus Psoraleae in zebrafish: material basis and implications for clinical safety dosing.

The dominant genres of the American healthcare system-electronic health records and research reports-are strategies for advancing commercial and empirical goals. These strategies have led us into an epistemic crisis in which clinicians and patients suffer from information overload, politicized health information, and conflicting narratives about medical practices across the lifespan, from vaccines in childhood to care at the end of life, resulting in a loss of trust between clinicians and patients. Two recent books offer insight into how previous epistemic crises were resolved by thepatterning of physicians' imaginations through genres now associated with health humanities. In her history of medicine in the early United States, the literary scholar Sari Altschuler shows how physicians used limericks, maps, and satires to address epistemic crises resulting from pandemics and the development of novel technologies. In her philosophy of art and imagination, the theologian Judith Wolfe shows how perceptual shifts can direct people and communities to new ends. When read in conversation, the works of Altschuler and Wolfe suggest the health humanities can provide novel strategies otherwise unavailable to physicians facing our current epistemic crisis.

Poria cocos polysaccharides alleviate colitis via the tryptophan metabolism-AhR-redox axis.

Ganoderma lucidum, a revered medicinal mushroom with a rich history in traditional East Asian medicine, has garnered significant scientific attention for its diverse pharmacological properties. This comprehensive review synthesises recent advancements in understanding the phytochemistry, biological activities and therapeutic applications of G. lucidum. We delve into the intricate composition of its bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, sterols and phenolic compounds, elucidating their mechanisms of action in immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory responses, antioxidant defence, hepatoprotection and anticancer potential. Furthermore, this review examines emerging applications in nanotechnology, where G. lucidum extracts are utilised for the green synthesis of nanoparticles and as components in advanced drug delivery systems, antimicrobial nanomaterials and biosensors. We also discuss its expanding role in nutraceuticals, functional foods and cosmeceuticals, highlighting its anti-aging, skin-brightening and calming properties. Finally, the safety profile and toxicological evaluations of G. lucidum are critically assessed, alongside its growing economic significance. This review underscores the immense therapeutic potential of G. lucidum as a natural resource for modern medicine and biotechnology, while also identifying key challenges and future directions for research to facilitate its broader clinical and industrial translation.

Andrographolide (ANDR), a key bioactive compound from Andrographis paniculata, has a long history in traditional medicine but is limited by low bioavailability and solubility. This has sparked significant medicinal chemistry efforts to develop more effective derivatives. This review offers a detailed and current synthesis of ANDR derivatives and their improvements in bioavailability, emphasizing their pharmacological actions, structure-activity relationships, chemical modifications, and patent landscape. The review systematically examines evidence from recent literature and patents, emphasizing chemical strategies for modifying the ANDR scaffold, and summarizes biological evaluation results, including cell-based, in vivo, and mechanistic studies of new synthetic and semi-synthetic compounds. A broad range of ANDR derivatives are described, including C-3, C-12, C-14, and C-19 modifications delivering substantial potency gains across multiple therapeutic areas. Recent analogs demonstrated superior efficacy to the parent compound, such as compound 36e (IC50 = 0.59 µM for MCF-7 cells), compound 41d (ALT = 487.6 IU/L, AST = 742.4 IU/L for hepatoprotection), and compound 19i (IC50 = 0.30 µM for anti-platelet aggregation), far surpassing native ANDR (with typical IC50 8.48 µM or higher). Esterification and hybridization have produced analogs with drastically enhanced inhibition rates (e.g., >85% antifibrotic effect, 93.92% tumor reduction, up to 92% inhibition of bacterial biofilm formation), and several derivatives show reduced cytotoxicity, increased bioavailability, and expanded pharmacological scope. The findings suggest that thoughtful modifications to the ANDR scaffold-especially at the C-3, C-12, C-14, and C-19 positions, as well as the lactone moiety-have the potential to enhance potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties. However, the majority of derivatives remain in the preclinical phase, and challenges such as inadequate solubility, incomplete toxicity assessments, and limited pharmacokinetic data continue to hinder clinical advancement. This review uniquely integrates detailed structure-activity data, advanced synthesis schemes, and quantifiable pharmacological outcomes from recent studies and patents, distinguishing itself from earlier reviews by presenting the most potent, selective, and safest ANDR-based analogs for translational research. The combined focus on numerical efficacy measures and synthetic innovation provides a roadmap for future drug development targeting major human diseases.

Insulin resistance (IR) is a core feature of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). As a traditional dietary supplement for T2DM management, fish maw has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Recent studies support the antidiabetic potential of bioactive peptides derived from fish maw, yet their effects and mechanisms against IR remain elusive. This study combined network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and experimental validation to explore the anti-IR effects of peptides from Miichthys miiuy fish maw. Results showed that MGPR and AGPAGPR may intact with PPARγ, thereby regulating the IRS-1/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. They elevated PPARγ transcriptional activity, upregulated PI3K, p-AKT, GLUT4, and p-GSK3β, and downregulated p-IRS-1. In IR-HepG2 cells and diabetic zebrafish, these peptides improved glucose consumption and promoted lipid droplet formation. Thus, MGPR and AGPAGPR may serve as promising natural insulin sensitizers for IR-related glycemic control.

ABSTRACT Recent public health crises, such as the SARS and Zika outbreaks and the COVID-19 pandemic, have reinvigorated research into historical health developments, particularly the factors that have driven dramatic increases in life expectancy over the past two centuries. In this context, the fight against infectious diseases has received particular attention. Until recently, however, historical demographers, family historians, and historians of medicine have primarily relied on all-cause mortality analyses or broad cause-of-death groupings. While these approaches have advanced the field, important gaps remain in our understanding of health transitions, the evolution of health inequalities, and their underlying mechanisms. Digitization of individual-level cause-of-death data and the development of the ICD10h classification system offer a promising way forward. We show how this innovation can transform three longstanding debates in historical demography and family history: (1) excess female mortality among children and adolescents, (2) death clustering among infants and young children, and (3) the healthy migrant effect. These debates persist because the mechanisms underlying the observed inequalities remain unclear; identifying the specific causes of death that led to excess mortality—or, in the case of migrants, the sources of survival advantage—provides crucial new insights. Because historical patterns continue to shape contemporary health disparities—excess female mortality and infant and child mortality clustering remain pressing issues in several developing countries, while the healthy migrant effect persists globally—resolving these puzzles is not merely of historical interest but also of urgent relevance today.

This Month in Aerospace Medicine History: May

Background/Objectives: Schizophrenia is one of the most extensively studied yet conceptually unstable disorders in the history of medicine and brain sciences. Since its formalization at the turn of the twentieth century, the disorder has been repeatedly redefined, reflecting changes in clinical observation, diagnostic philosophy, and neuroscientific models of brain function. The objective of this review is to critically examine the historical evolution of schizophrenia as a medical construct and to analyze how shifts in diagnostic systems have shaped the search for biological and molecular biomarkers. Methods: A narrative-historical review of the literature was conducted, integrating classical psychiatric texts, diagnostic manuals, and contemporary neuroscientific studies. Key milestones in the conceptualization of schizophrenia were analyzed alongside the development of biological hypotheses, including neurochemical, electrophysiological, neuroimaging, genetic, immunological, omics-based, and digital approaches. Emphasis was placed on identifying conceptual continuities, ruptures, and methodological limitations across historical periods. Results: The analysis reveals that the evolution of schizophrenia has been characterized by increasing diagnostic standardization accompanied by growing biological heterogeneity. While successive biological models have provided valuable insights into specific aspects of the disorder, none have yielded single, robust diagnostic biomarkers. Instead, findings consistently reflect partial overlaps between clinical phenotypes and biological signals, strongly influenced by historically derived diagnostic categories. Conclusions: The persistent absence of definitive diagnostic biomarkers for schizophrenia reflects not only technical limitations but also the historical construction of the disorder as a heterogeneous clinical category. Understanding this historical context is essential for interpreting current findings in brain sciences. Future research is likely to benefit from stratification-based, dimensional, and integrative frameworks that move beyond categorical diagnosis while preserving clinical relevance.

Tripterygium wilfordii is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a long history of therapeutic use but remains controversial in modern medicine because of its potent toxicity. Among its diverse chemical constituents, the diterpenoid triptolide and the triterpenoid celastrol have emerged as prominent compounds due to their remarkable pharmacological activities, including antitumor, immunosuppressive, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective effects. However, their clinical translation is limited by toxicity concerns and restricted natural availability. This review systematically summarizes the medicinal history and chemical constituents of T. wilfordii, with particular emphasis on the pharmacological mechanisms, structural modification strategies, and recent advances in the biosynthesis of triptolide and celastrol. In addition, we discuss perspectives on toxicity mitigation and lead compound development, aiming to provide theoretical guidance and valuable references for modern drug development and the green manufacturing of T. wilfordii -derived resources.

Introduction: Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), a herb with a long history in Ayurvedic medicine, is known for its broad therapeutic benefits. It contains bioactive compounds like terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, which have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Tulsi’s extracts are used to treat conditions like bronchitis, rheumatism, epilepsy, skin diseases, and digestive disorders. Modern studies highlight its wound-healing effects by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation. Tulsi’s antimicrobial action, especially against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, offers potential as a natural alternative to conventional antibiotics. It also supports digestive health by enhancing bile secretion and enzyme activity. Overall, Tulsi is a promising natural remedy that warrants further research for its medicinal applications. Materials and Methods: Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) extract is prepared by washing, drying, and grinding the leaves, followed by methanol extraction and solvent partitioning. Phytochemical screening identifies the presence of compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids through various chemical tests. The antioxidant activity is assessed using the DPPH radical method, and anti-inflammatory effects are measured by testing against Bovine Serum Albumin. Antimicrobial activity is determined using the agar well diffusion method, and anti-biofilm activity is evaluated using a microtiter plate assay. Biocompatibility is tested through an MTT assay using L929 fibroblast cells to assess cytotoxicity and cell viability. This comprehensive approach helps confirm the therapeutic potential of Tulsi. Results: The test substance shows a dose-dependent inhibition, starting at 17.72% at 10 μg/ml and increasing steadily to 88.50% at 50 μg/ml. This rising inhibition with higher doses suggests strong anti-inflammatory properties, as the substance effectively prevents protein denaturation at increasing concentrations. The plot for DPPH assay showed a dose-dependent increase in radical scavenging activity (%RSA) of the test substance, starting at 24% at 20 μg/ml and reaching nearly 60% at 100 μg/ml. This linear increase demonstrates a strong correlation between higher doses and enhanced antioxidant activity, typical of compounds with potent free radical scavenging properties. The test substance shows a dose-dependent reduction in biofilm formation, with slight inhibition at 25 μg/ml and more pronounced effects at 50 μg/ml and 75 μg/ml. At 100 μg/ml, biofilm formation is significantly reduced across bacterial species, indicated by much lighter staining. This suggests the compound effectively inhibits biofilm development, particularly at higher concentrations. Discussion: Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticariogenic properties due to its high content of flavonoids, phenolics, and essential oils. Its antioxidant action helps protect against oxidative stress, which is linked to diseases like cancer and cardiovascular issues. The plant also shows broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, inhibiting pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus mutans, while reducing biofilm formation and dental plaque. Biocompatibility studies suggest that O. sanctum is safe for use in medical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. Further research is needed to explore its full therapeutic potential. Conclusion: Tulsi, or O. sanctum, possesses antioxidant, anticariogenic, and anti- inflammatory properties, making it a promising therapeutic agent for various illnesses. However, further research is needed to address safety, bioavailability, and clinical applications.

During excavation works for high-speed railway infrastructure in central Italy, at a depth of 430 cm in clayey-gravelly soil, a mandibular bone fragment was discovered together with metal artefacts. The find emerged in the context of geotechnical stabilization works aimed at ensuring ground support for the railway line. The mandibular fragment, preserved with erupted teeth, was cleaned and analyzed by radiological tomography using software for morphometric and densitometric evaluation. A subsample was examined at a Nuclear Physics Centre for radioisotopic dating and to assess the individual's physical and nutritional status at the time of death. Comparative archaeological analyses were performed to identify the nature and chronology of the associated metal artefacts. Morphometric assessment confirmed the remains belonged to an adult primate of the Order Eutheria, with traits consistent with a human specimen. Radiological and isotopic studies yielded data on bone density, preservation, and temporal context. The artefacts displayed distinct morphological features attributable to manufactured tools. Archaeological comparison indicated they were most likely the tips of surgical instruments, dating to the Roman period (first century AD). This multidisciplinary investigation demonstrates the value of combining morphometric, radiological, radioisotopic, and archaeological analyses in reconstructing the biological and cultural significance of osteological finds. The evidence suggests the mandibular fragment belonged to an adult individual, and the associated artefacts can be interpreted as surgical instruments from the Roman era, providing rare insights into ancient medical practices.

Citri Grandis Exocarpium with medicine and food homology: A review regarding its potential anti-obesity effects and future applications.

The aim. Toconduct acomprehensive historical andanalytical review ofthedevelopment ofneurosurgical thought and practice in Egypt in the context of global historical epochs: from the Ancient World to the Modern Era. Materials and methods. Based on the analysis of primary historical sources (Edwin Smith Papyrus), data from the scientific literature on the history of medicine, and modern organizational and statistical reports, a systematic retrospective review was performed. The historical-genetic method was used to identify continuity and key transformations. Results. The development of neurosurgery in Egypt is presented within four periods. First period – Ancient World (IV millennium BC – V century AD): formation of empirical foundations (Edwin Smith Papyrus) and translation of knowledge through the Alexandrian School into ancient medicine. Second period – Middle Ages (V century – end of XV century): preservation of theoretical heritage in the Arab-Islamic medical tradition amid practical stagnation. Third period – Modern History (end of XV century – beginning of XX century): influence of European medical schools under Ottoman rule, laying the foundations of modern education (Kasr-el-Ainy School, 1837). Fourth period – Modern Era (mid-XX century – present): formation of the specialty through the efforts of pioneers (S. Boktor, O. Serour), institutionalization (Egyptian Society of Neurosurgeons, 1967), technological modernization and integration into the global community. Conclusion. The evolution of neurosurgery in Egypt was intermittent, directly dependent on the political and cultural context of the epochs. The modern stage is characterized by overcoming the historical gap: while maintaining a colossal practical workload, there is an active introduction of high technologies and the strengthening of the leading positions of Egyptian neurosurgeons in the Middle East and Africa region.

This article studies the relation between research reactors, the development of nuclear research centres and the pharmaceutical industry in the recent history of nuclear medicine. While existing scholarship has rightfully highlighted how medical applications served as a useful argument to de-militarize the image of large-scale nuclear research infrastructure during the Cold War, this study extents this perspective beyond the Cold War era. Using the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre as a case study, this article highlights how their orientation was negotiated within economic and political considerations. From the 1990s onwards, therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals experienced increasing attention, while the amount of radioisotope-producing reactors was decreasing. In an era that had become more critical of nuclear infrastructure, this article shows how the production of radioisotopes became a social-political argument in the preservation of test reactors.

Background: Vaccinations are recognized in the history of medicine as the most effective method of prevention in combating infectious diseases. They allow for the control of the course and extent of these diseases, and also significantly contribute to the complete elimination of these diseases. However, the implementation of a global vaccination program requires a high level of social approval, and thus factors that influence patients' attitudes towards vaccinations. Approach: The main aim of the study was to determine the factors determining the willingness or refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The test was performed using the CAPI technique at the Medical and Diagnostic Center in Siedlce. Interviews using the LSQ-Cavedish diagnostic questionnaire were conducted among healthy and chronically ill patients. . The study took into account the influence of socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle of patients coordinated in primary care in rural areas and small towns. Categories of vaccinated and unvaccinated subjects were compared using chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: The results show that there are significant differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups in terms of gender, age and professional status. Women, people aged 65 and older, actively working and working physically were more often vaccinated against COVID-19. There was no significant impact of place of residence, education, relationship status and household size on patients' attitudes. The study showed that the categories of vaccinated and unvaccinated patients differ in their health lifestyles. Interestingly, unvaccinated people had a higher rate of healthy lifestyle, while vaccinated people were more likely to follow an unhealthy lifestyle. Implications: The conclusions of the study indicate the need for further research on the effectiveness of information campaigns and flexible communication strategies that take into account social diversity and patient concerns. These actions can help increase public acceptance of vaccination programs and ensure public health protection.

The systematic integration of ethical and humanistic dimensions into medical education in Italy has progressively strengthened since the late 1990s. However, no studies currently provide an up-to-date and comprehensive mapping of the teaching of bioethics within Italian Medical Degree Programs (MDPs). To provide a complete and systematic overview of bioethics courses included in the MDPs offered by Italian universities. Using the official list of Italian universities published by the Ministry of Universities and Research, a manual review of the institutional websites of all universities offering MDPs – whether taught in Italian or English – was conducted. Only mandatory courses containing at least one of the following keywords in their title were included: bioetica, etica, morale (Italian) or bioethics, ethics, moral (English). Elective courses were excluded. A subsequent manual search of publicly available online sources was carried out to verify the consistency between each course instructor’s academic degree and the Scientific-Disciplinary Sector (SSD) of the course. The reference academic year was 2025–2026. A substantial portion of the examined curricula (~ 71%) included courses in ethics or bioethics. With the exception of three atypical cases, these courses were predominantly assigned to two medical SSDs – Legal Medicine and History of Medicine – while a smaller share (~ 18%) was assigned to Moral Philosophy. An overall consistency of approximately 78% was observed between the SSD and the academic degree of the instructors. In light of the distinction introduced by the “Gelmini reform” between bibliometric and non-bibliometric sectors, 81% of bioethics courses are placed within bibliometric areas. This placement effectively locates bioethics within the scientific domain of knowledge, raising questions about the implications of such classification for the identity and development of a discipline that is inherently interdisciplinary.