Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the fifth most common type of cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world.HCC has a reported recurrence rate of 70%-80%after 5 years of follow-up.Controlli...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the fifth most common type of cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world.HCC has a reported recurrence rate of 70%-80%after 5 years of follow-up.Controlling tumor recurrence is the most critical factor associated with HCC mortality.Conventional salvage therapies for recurrent HCC include re-hepatectomy or liver transplantation,transcatheter arterial chemoembolization,Y-90,target therapy,and immunotherapy;however,these conventional treatment modalities have yet to achieve consistently favorable outcomes.Meanwhile,previous studies have demonstrated that conventional therapies in combination with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),acupuncture,moxibustion or dietary supplements could notably benefit patients with HCC recurrence by strengthening and augmenting the overall management strategy.However,systemic reviews related to the interactions between complementary therapies and conventional therapy in recurrent HCC are limited.In this review,we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of complementary therapies for recurrent HCC,which include augmenting the local control to improve the congestion status of primary tumors and reducing multicentric tumor occurrence via inducing autophagy,apoptosis or cell cycle arrest.TCM and its derivatives may play important roles in helping to control HCC recurrence by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition,migration,invasion,and metastasis,inhibiting cancer stem cells,and ameliorating drug resistance.展开更多
The international scientific literature presents still incipient results regarding the management of cancer symptom clusters by oncology nursing,especially in pediatric oncology.This is a promising field of investigat...The international scientific literature presents still incipient results regarding the management of cancer symptom clusters by oncology nursing,especially in pediatric oncology.This is a promising field of investigation for clinical nurses and researchers,and when it is subsidized by medium-range theories,they co-rroborate the diagnoses and interventions of nursing in oncology,enhancing the science of nursing care.This minireview article aims to discuss the utilizing the hospital clowns as a complementary therapy,to enhance quality of life and reduce stress and fatigue in pediatric cancer patients.Overall,the evidence presented so far pointed out that complementary therapy might help improve the quality of life of pediatric cancer patients,and that complementary therapy usage should be part of a health comprehensive care model,delivering therapeutic approaches that might enhance the mind-body during a pediatric cancer patients’life span.The results of scientific investigations by nurses,particularly those linked to the basic sciences,play a critical role in advancing personalized care in pediatric integrative oncology.展开更多
Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD)has always been a frustrating disability for families and no official effective medical interventions has been found to cure this disorder yet.With more attention from the general public b...Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD)has always been a frustrating disability for families and no official effective medical interventions has been found to cure this disorder yet.With more attention from the general public both nationally and internationally,more and more families and therapists showed preference to implement complementary and alternative medical(CAM)therapies.This review aims to provide more information about potential CAM that has been applied and their effectiveness.展开更多
This editorial is based on the network pharmacology and in vivo study by Qin et al,which investigated the potential therapeutic mechanisms of Panax ginseng(P.ginseng)in ulcerative colitis.The key findings from the stu...This editorial is based on the network pharmacology and in vivo study by Qin et al,which investigated the potential therapeutic mechanisms of Panax ginseng(P.ginseng)in ulcerative colitis.The key findings from the study included the identification of the targets of P.ginseng and ulcerative colitis,elucidation of mechanistic pathways,and in vivo validation of the pharmacological activity and therapeutic effect of panaxadiol,a key active component of P.ginseng.This editorial provides additional context regarding the evidence supporting the use of ginseng and other commonly used complementary therapies that clinicians may encounter.We also aim to highlight potential similarities between the mechanisms of popular complementary and conventional medical therapies.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： There is increasing interest in complementary and alternative medicine generally, and especially by those affected by chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus. We aimed to determine the prevalence and p...OBJECTIVE： There is increasing interest in complementary and alternative medicine generally, and especially by those affected by chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus. We aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern of complementary and altemative medicine use among patients suffering from diabetes mellitus in Shiraz, southern Iran. Another objective was to explore associated factors for use of complementary and alternative medicine among patients with diabetes mellitus. METHODS： A 19-item semi-structured questionnaire （open- and close-ended） was administered to 239 patients with diabetes mellitus in this cross-sectional study. It was carried out in two outpatient diabetes clinics affiliated with the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. RESULTS： One hundred and eighty patients （75.3%） used at least one type of complementary and alternative medicine in the last year prior to the interview. Patients with diabetes mellitus who were living in a large family （〉 5 members）, not taking insulin, and believed that complementary and alternative medicine have synergistic effects with conventional medicine, were independently and significantly （P values： 0.02, 0.04, and 0.01, respectively） more likely to use complementary and alternative medicine. Most of the users （97.7%） reported use of herbal preparations, and 89.4% of users did not change their medication, neither in medication schedule nor its dosage. CONCLUSION： The use of complementary and alternative medicine, especially herbal remedies, is popular among diabetes patients in Shiraz, Iran. This use is associated with patients＇ family size, type of conventional medications and their view about concomitant use of complementary and conventional medicine.展开更多
Sepsis-associated encephalopathy(SAE)is a common manifestation of sepsis,ranging from mild confusion and delirium to severe cognitive impairment and deep coma.SAE is associated with higher mortality and long-term outc...Sepsis-associated encephalopathy(SAE)is a common manifestation of sepsis,ranging from mild confusion and delirium to severe cognitive impairment and deep coma.SAE is associated with higher mortality and long-term outcomes,particularly substantial declines in cognitive function.The mechanisms of SAE probably include neuroinflammation that is mediated by systemic inflammation and ischemic lesions in the brain,a disrupted blood–brain barrier,oxidative stress,neurotransmitter dysfunction,and severe microglial activation.Increasing evidence suggests that complementary and alternative medicine,especially Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM),is favorable in alleviating cognitive decline after sepsis.Here,we summarized the studies of traditional herbal remedies,TCM formulas and acupuncture therapy in animal models of neurological dysfunctions after sepsis in recent decades and reviewed their potential mechanisms.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： Patients with diabetes commonly use complementary and alternative medicine （CAM）. Little is known about types and factors related to CAM use in patients with diabetes in Thailand. This study aimed to exa...OBJECTIVE： Patients with diabetes commonly use complementary and alternative medicine （CAM）. Little is known about types and factors related to CAM use in patients with diabetes in Thailand. This study aimed to examine types and factors that were associated with CAM use in Thai diabetic patients.METHODS： A cross-sectional study of diabetic patients being treated in four primary healthcare units and two secondary hospitals in the north of Thailand was conducted. A questionnaire was used to collect data. Frequency, percentage, and Chi-square test were used to describe or analyze data.RESULTS： The three most common types of CAM used by samples were Daode Xinxi （a modified version of Taichi）, prayer and meditation. Women were more likely to use CAM than men （χ^2=5.038, P=0.018）. Patients aged between 40 and 69 years were more likely to use CAM than those aged younger than 40 or older than 69 years （χ^2=11.041, P=0.026）. Farmers were more likely to use CAM than those with other careers （χ^2=19.248, P=0.007）. Diabetes patients whose time since diagnosis was between 1 and 10 years were more likely to use CAM than those with a longer elapsed time since diagnosis （χ^2= 8.407, P = 0.038）. Marital status, religion, education, health insurance type and conventional treatment approaches were not associated with CAM use in diabetic patients.CONCLUSION： The most common type of CAM used by Thai patients with diabetes was mind and body practice. CAM use was significantly associated with gender, age, career and duration of diabetes However, marital status, religion, education, health insurance types and conventional regimen for diabetics were not associated with CAM use.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:The use of complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)is relatively common among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)around the world.Like many other countries,Saudi Arabia has a high incidence of T2...OBJECTIVE:The use of complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)is relatively common among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)around the world.Like many other countries,Saudi Arabia has a high incidence of T2DM,and incorporates the use of CAM in its treatment.This study explores the knowledge,attitude and practice(KAP)of CAM therapies among patients with T2DM and explores the relationships between sociodemographics and the KAP of CAM modalities.METHODS:This is a hospital-based,observational,cross-sectional study that selected 302 outpatients with T2DM,from Diabetic Center of King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Hospital,in Riyadh city,in May 2014.Patients were interviewed using a predesigned questionnaire.RESULTS:The mean age of patients was(51.6±10.6)years and 43.4%of them were males.The prevalence of CAM practices was 30.5%;30.39%of them used herbs,20.58%used wet cupping and 17.64%used nutritional supplements and other therapies.The factors found to predict the use of CAM therapies among patients with T2DM were:age above 51 years,unemployment and the participants’knowledge about the effectiveness of CAM products.CONCLUSION:This preliminary study estimated the prevalence of CAM use,revealed positive attitude towards CAM and found three significant predictors of CAM use among patients with T2DM,which is consistent with regional data.A community-based research with a larger sample that targets T2DM population is needed in Saudi Arabia.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： Integrative medicine refers to ongoing efforts to combine the best of conventional and evidence-based complementary therapies. While this effort for collaboration is increasing, traditional complementary a...OBJECTIVE： Integrative medicine refers to ongoing efforts to combine the best of conventional and evidence-based complementary therapies. While this effort for collaboration is increasing, traditional complementary and alternative medicine （TM-CAM） remains poorly integrated into the current healthcare system of Ghana. At present, it is not clear if practitioners of mainstream medicine favor integrative medicine. The present study, therefore, sought to explore the perceptions of conventional healthcare professionals on integrative medicine. METHODS： A qualitative design composed of semi-structured interviews was conducted with 23 conventional healthcare professionals comprising pharmacists, physicians, nurses and dieticians from two quasi-government hospitals in Accra, Ghana. RESULTS： Participants＇ knowledge of TM-CAM was low, and although they perceived alternative medicine as important to current conventional healthcare in Ghana, they expressed anxieties about the potential negative effects of the use of TM-CAM. This paradox was found to account for the low levels of use among these professionals, as well as the low level of recommendation to their patients. The practitioners surveyed recommended that alternative medicine could be integrated into mainstream allopathic healthcare in Ghana through improving knowledge, training as well as addressing concerns of safety and efficacy. These findings are discussed under the themes： the knowledge gap, the paradox of TM-CAM, experience of use and prescription, and guided integration. We did not observe any differences in views among the participants. CONCLUSION： The conventional healthcare professionals were ready to accept the idea of integrative medicine based on knowledge of widespread use and the potential role of TM-CAM products and practices in improving healthcare delivery in the country. However, to achieve an institutional integration practitioners＇ understanding of TM-CAM must be improved, with specific attention to issues of safety, regulation and evidence-based practice of TM-CAM products and services in Ghana.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： To compare the use of complementary and alternative medicine （CAM）, including dietary supplements, by individuals with and without features of metabolic syndrome （FeMS）. METHODS： Using a cross section...OBJECTIVE： To compare the use of complementary and alternative medicine （CAM）, including dietary supplements, by individuals with and without features of metabolic syndrome （FeMS）. METHODS： Using a cross sectional study design, information was obtained by self-administered questionnaires from 300 university individuals. FeMS was defined as any individuals self-reporting at least one of the clinical diagnoses of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or obesity. Finally, two categories were created for cross tabulation, and individuals with and without FeMS were compared. RESULTS： Of the 192 individuals completing the study, 39% （n=76） were currently using or had used CAM therapies in the past 12 months. Individuals with FeMS （n=54, 28%） were more likely （P〈0.05） to use different types of CAM therapies, in particular dietary and herbal supplements, aromatherapy and massage therapy compared to individuals without FeMS （n=138, 72%）. CONCLUSION： Individuals with FeMS were more likely to use CAM, particularly supplements. Doctors need to properly inquire about and understand their patients＇ supplement use, especially if CAM therapies are used in coniunction with conventional medications.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To update the current characteristics about the scope and quality of mixed methods research(MMR)in complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)after nearly 10 years.METHODS:A 5-stage approach for conducting a...OBJECTIVE:To update the current characteristics about the scope and quality of mixed methods research(MMR)in complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)after nearly 10 years.METHODS:A 5-stage approach for conducting a scoping review was adopted.Articles published on the top 10 journals in CAM with the highest impact factor in 2020 were screened for MMR.Information of included articles were extracted,and then synthesized to illustrate the current state.Methodological quality was evaluated according to the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool(MMAT)2018 version.RESULTS:A total of 55(55/2991,2%)articles using mixed methods were retrieved,including 17 medical studies and 38 ethnobotanical studies.We performed an in-depth analysis on the 17 medical studies,which studied cancer,stress,pain,fatigue,exercises,mindfulness intervention,herbal medicine use,art and acupuncture.Thirteen pilot studies applied MMR to evaluate the feasibility of interventions or programs(13/17,76%);phenomenology was inferred as the most common philosophical assumptions(13/17,76%);the most applied type of MMR was convergent design(16/17,94%);integration often took place at integration(12/17,71%).Among the 16 eligible studies for quality appraisal,majority were rated as good(14/16,88%),whereas two studies were rated as poorly described.Primarily,a poor rating was due to incomplete reporting of data analysis and citations in qualitative components;lack of confounder controlling and the sampling strategy in quantitative components;poor description of integration and justification for mixed methods.Comparing with the previous review,fewer MMR were published in 2020 in CAM,but the proportion of studies that clearly reported MMR has increased by 4 times(4%→15%).CONCLUSION:CAM researchers need to realize the benefits that MMR can have on conducting further health care research.Our findings highlight that applying MMR will be helpful to understand the complex dynamics and interdisciplinary nature of complex intervention.In addition,addressing a standardized reporting criteria for MMR is recommended.展开更多
The scientific literature presents a modest amount ot evidence m the use or complementary ana al[erna- tire medicine （CAM）. On the other hand, in practice, relevant results are common. The debates among CAM practiti...The scientific literature presents a modest amount ot evidence m the use or complementary ana al[erna- tire medicine （CAM）. On the other hand, in practice, relevant results are common. The debates among CAM practitioners about the quality and execution of scientific research are important, Therefore, the aim of this review is to gather, synthesize and describe the differentiated methodological models that encompass the complexity of therapeutic interventions. The process of bringing evidence-based medicine into clinical practice in CAM is essential for the growth and strengthening of complementary medicines worldwide.展开更多
Background:Pressure ulcers are skin lesions generated by ischemic conditions caused by pressure on soft tissues.Several studies have investigated complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)as preventative and treatmen...Background:Pressure ulcers are skin lesions generated by ischemic conditions caused by pressure on soft tissues.Several studies have investigated complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)as preventative and treatment measures for pressure ulcers.Therefore,we systematically reviewed the CAM literature in preventing and treating pressure ulcers.Methods:All clinical trial studies which used CAM were included.We searched different databases,including Scientific Information Database,Irandoc,Google Scholar,PubMed,Medline,Scopus,Cochrane Library,Embase,and Science Direct.The following keywords were used:“complementary and alternative medicine-CAM”,“integrative medicine”,“traditional medicine”,“pressure ulcer”,“bedsore”,“pressure sore healing”,and“prevention”.A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2015 checklist was used to perform analyses.Results:After screening,35 studies were selected.Our investigations suggested that honey,medicinal plants,such as resin salve,Angelica dahurica,Aloe vera,fruits,herbal oils,a combination of several traditional medicine methods,sheepskin,maggot therapy,massage,charcoal,and acupuncture were the most common CAM methods.Conclusion:CAM strategies can prevent and treat pressure ulcers.They reduce wound size,exudate and necrotic tissue levels,inflammation,pain,bleeding,and infections.展开更多
Complementary and alternative medicine(CAM) is defined as a group of interventions that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine. This definition already implies that CAM interventions are often not ...Complementary and alternative medicine(CAM) is defined as a group of interventions that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine. This definition already implies that CAM interventions are often not systematically studied; and the research evidence from single trials on CAM is often limited by small sample sizes, unclear methodology, and inadequate statistics. As a result, both, significant and insignificant results are oftenhard to interpret based on single trials. Summarizing the evidence from single CAM trials, qualitative systematic reviews still have to deal with the same problems as individual trials as they can only rely on the original reports. Thus, effects of CAM interventions are often underestimated or overestimated based on single trials or qualitative systematic reviews. While meta-analyses still are limited by the methodological shortcomings of the included studies, a well-conducted meta-analysis can deal with two common problems of CAM trials: inadequate statistics that rely on within-group comparisons and small underpowered sample sizes. Although large and high quality trials are urgently needed for most CAM interventions, funding often is limited. Until higher quality research is available, meta-analyses provide a useful tool to investigate the actual level of evidence of currently published CAM trials. This editorial presents examples of meta-analyses in the field of CAM and discusses how they contribute to the consolidation of evidence.展开更多
BACKGROUND Prediabetes is a high-risk precursor for diabetes development and is associated with increased psychological distress.Conventional pharmacological treatments for prediabetes have limitations,including adver...BACKGROUND Prediabetes is a high-risk precursor for diabetes development and is associated with increased psychological distress.Conventional pharmacological treatments for prediabetes have limitations,including adverse effects and poor patient compliance.Tuina’s abdominal vibration technique,a traditional non-pharmacological intervention,has shown promising results in glycemic regulation.However,its effects on psychological well-being remain largely unexplored.AIM To investigate efficacy of abdominal vibration at varying frequencies in Tuina for alleviating psychological and metabolic effects in prediabetes patients.METHODS A prospective cohort study(April 2025 to April 2026)at Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine included 120 prediabetes patients.Participants were allocated to three groups based on vibration frequency:(1)Lowfrequency(400 times/minute,n=40);(2)Medium-frequency(500 times/minute,n=40);and(3)High-frequency(600 times/minute,n=40).All participants received 30-minute sessions three times weekly for 3 months,with follow-up at 6 months and 12 months.Primary outcomes included changes in depression(Beck Depression Inventory-Ⅱ),anxiety(State-Trait Anxiety Inventory),and stress(Perceived Stress Scale)levels.RESULTS After a 3-month intervention period,with follow-ups at 6 months and 12 months,patients in all three groups showed significant improvements in depression,anxiety,and stress scores compared to baseline(P<0.001).The high-frequency group demonstrated the most substantial psychological improvements(mean reduction in depression scores:9.2±2.3 points;anxiety:8.7±2.1 points;stress:10.4±2.5 points).These psychological improvements correlated significantly with reductions in insulin resistance(r=0.68,P<0.001).The high-frequency group also showed the most significant improvements in glycemic parameters,with mean reductions in fasting plasma glucose,2-hour postprandial glucose,and glycosylated hemoglobin concentrations of 0.92 mmol/L,1.87 mmol/L,and 0.51%,respectively.Correlation analysis revealed significant associations between improved psychological parameters and enhanced glycemic control.CONCLUSION Tuina’s abdominal vibration technique,especially at high frequency reduces depression,anxiety,and stress in prediabetes patients,correlating with enhanced glycemic control and insulin sensitivity,suggesting a bidirectional relationship between psychological and metabolic health.展开更多
clear requirements for vigorously inheriting and developing traditional Chinese medicine,which should be an important part of the domestic healthcare system.Electroacupuncture,as a complementary therapy,has significan...clear requirements for vigorously inheriting and developing traditional Chinese medicine,which should be an important part of the domestic healthcare system.Electroacupuncture,as a complementary therapy,has significant efficacy and potential in the field of enhanced recovery after surgery based on current available evidence.Despite some challenges,electroacupuncture is expected to play a greater role in healthcare practice through policy support and technological innovation in the future under the“Healthy China 2030”plan.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： To investigate the distribution characteristics of TCM syndromes and the related herbal prescriptions for malignant tumors （MT）. METHODS： A clinical database of the TCM syndromes and the herbal prescrip...OBJECTIVE： To investigate the distribution characteristics of TCM syndromes and the related herbal prescriptions for malignant tumors （MT）. METHODS： A clinical database of the TCM syndromes and the herbal prescriptions in treatment of 136 MT patients were established. The data were then analyzed using cluster and frequency analysis. RESULTS： According to the cluster analysis, the TCM syndromes in MT patients mainly included two patterns： deficiency of both Qi and Yin and internal accumulation of toxic heat. The commonlyprescribed herbs were Huangqi （Astraglus）, Nuizhenzi （Fructus Ligustri Lucidi）, Lingzhi （Ganoderma Lucidum）, Huaishan （Dioscorea Opposita）, Xiakucao （Prunella Vulgaris）, and Baihuasheshecao （Herba Hedyotidis）. CONCLUSION： Deficiency of Qi and Yin is the pri- mary syndrome of MT, and internal accumulation of toxic heat is the secondary syndrome. The herbs for Qi mainly heat-cl supplementation and Yin houris used, with earance and the assistance of detoxification. hment are herbs for展开更多
Acupuncture is a widely practiced system of medicine that has been in place for thousands of years. Consumer interest and use of acupuncture are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, as it is used to tre...Acupuncture is a widely practiced system of medicine that has been in place for thousands of years. Consumer interest and use of acupuncture are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, as it is used to treat a multitude of symptoms and disease processes as well as to maintain health and prevent illness. A growing body of evidence increasingly validates the practice of acupuncture. Further developing scientific data will play an important role in the future of acupuncture and other complementary and alternative medicines in public health. Acupuncture is commonly used concurrently with conventional medicine. Although acupuncture is embraced by consumers and medical professionals misconceptions abound. We have explored and dispelled ten misconceptions common to the practice of acupuncture, utilizing an evidence-based approach. As the trend of merging conventional medical care with acupuncture treatment grows, it is important to develop a conceptual model of integrative medicine. Using a scientific evidence approach will create a structure from which to begin and grow confidence among conventional medical providers. Acupuncture is a safe and effective modality when performed properly by trained professionals. Educating both the consumer and medical community is important to enable appropriate and evidence-based applications of acupuncture and integration with conventional medicine for high-quality patient care.展开更多
Background： Sexual health positively correlates with overall wellbeing. Existing therapeutics to enhance male sexual health are limited by factors that include responsiveness, adherence and adverse effects. As the po...Background： Sexual health positively correlates with overall wellbeing. Existing therapeutics to enhance male sexual health are limited by factors that include responsiveness, adherence and adverse effects. As the population ages, safe and effective interventions that preserve male sexual function are needed. Published research suggests that various preparations of Kaempferia parviflora, a plant in the Zingiberaceae （ginger） family, support cardiovascular health and may ameliorate erectile function. Objective： The aim of this study was to examine the effects of KaempMaxTM, an ethanol extract of the K. parvi]lora rhizome, on erectile function in healthy middle-aged and older men. Design, setting, participants and interventions： We conducted an open-label, one-arm study on 14 generally healthy males aged 50-68 years with self-reported mild erectile dysfunction, who were not using pre- scription treatments. Participants took 100 mg KaempMaxTM daily for 30 days. Main outcome measures： Evaluations were conducted at baseline and on the final study assessment. Primary efficacy analyses included the International Index of Erectile Function （IIEF）; secondary efficacy analyses included the Global Assessment Question about erectile function. Results： Thirteen participants completed the 30-day study. Supplementation with KaempMaxTM resulted in statistically significant improvements in erectile function, intercourse satisfaction and total scores on the IIEF questionnaire. KaempMaxTM was well tolerated and exhibited an excellent safety profile. Conclusion： Our results suggest that KaempMaxTM may improve erectile function in healthy middle-aged and older men. While the effects were not as pronounced as what might be seen with prescription med- ication, most participants found them satisfactory. Additional, longer and placebo-controlled clinical tri- als will be needed. Trial registration： Clinicaltrials.gov identifier Ncr03389867.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： This study aims to investigate the relationship between major signal points （MaSPs） of the lower extremities used in court-type Thai traditional massage （CTTM） and the corresponding underlying anatomic...OBJECTIVE： This study aims to investigate the relationship between major signal points （MaSPs） of the lower extremities used in court-type Thai traditional massage （CTTM） and the corresponding underlying anatomical structures, as well as to determine the short-term changes in blood flow and skin temperature of volunteers experiencing CTTM. METHODS： MaSPs were identified and marked on cadavers before acrylic color was injected. The underlying structures marked with acrylic colors were observed and the anatomical structures were determined. Then, pressure was applied to each MaSP in human volunteers （lateral side of leg and medial side of leg） and blood flow on right dorsalis pedis artery was measured using duplex ultrasound while skin temperature changes were monitored using an infrared themographic camera. RESULTS： Short-term changes in the blood flow parameters, volume flow and average velocity, compared to baseline （P 〈 0.05）, were observed on MaSP of the lower extremity, ML4. Changes in the peak systolic velocity of the area ML5 were also observed relative to baseline. The skin temperature of two different MaSPs on the lateral side of leg （LL4 and LL5） and four on the medial side of leg （ML2, ML3, ML4 and ML5） was significantly increased （P 〈 0.05） at 1 rain after pressure application. CONCLUSION： This study established the clear correlation between the location of MaSP, as defined in CTTM, and the underlying anatomical structures. The effect of massage can stimulate skin blood flow because results showed increased skin temperature and blood flow characteristics. While these results were statistically significant, they may not be clinically relevant, as the present study focused on the immediate physiological effect of manipulation, rather than treatment effects. Thus, this study will serve as baseline data for further clinical studies in CTTM展开更多
基金Supported by Ministry of Science and Technology of Taiwan,No.NSTC111-2320-B-039-025China Medical University Hospital,No.DMR-111-005,No.DMR-111-013,No.DMR-111-016,and No.DMR-111-195An-Nan Hospital,China Medical University,No.ANHRF-110-25.
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is the fifth most common type of cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world.HCC has a reported recurrence rate of 70%-80%after 5 years of follow-up.Controlling tumor recurrence is the most critical factor associated with HCC mortality.Conventional salvage therapies for recurrent HCC include re-hepatectomy or liver transplantation,transcatheter arterial chemoembolization,Y-90,target therapy,and immunotherapy;however,these conventional treatment modalities have yet to achieve consistently favorable outcomes.Meanwhile,previous studies have demonstrated that conventional therapies in combination with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),acupuncture,moxibustion or dietary supplements could notably benefit patients with HCC recurrence by strengthening and augmenting the overall management strategy.However,systemic reviews related to the interactions between complementary therapies and conventional therapy in recurrent HCC are limited.In this review,we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of complementary therapies for recurrent HCC,which include augmenting the local control to improve the congestion status of primary tumors and reducing multicentric tumor occurrence via inducing autophagy,apoptosis or cell cycle arrest.TCM and its derivatives may play important roles in helping to control HCC recurrence by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition,migration,invasion,and metastasis,inhibiting cancer stem cells,and ameliorating drug resistance.
基金Supported by the Coordination of Improvement of Higher Education Personnel(CAPES)and National Council for Scientific and Technological Development(CNPq),No.311427/2023-5.
文摘The international scientific literature presents still incipient results regarding the management of cancer symptom clusters by oncology nursing,especially in pediatric oncology.This is a promising field of investigation for clinical nurses and researchers,and when it is subsidized by medium-range theories,they co-rroborate the diagnoses and interventions of nursing in oncology,enhancing the science of nursing care.This minireview article aims to discuss the utilizing the hospital clowns as a complementary therapy,to enhance quality of life and reduce stress and fatigue in pediatric cancer patients.Overall,the evidence presented so far pointed out that complementary therapy might help improve the quality of life of pediatric cancer patients,and that complementary therapy usage should be part of a health comprehensive care model,delivering therapeutic approaches that might enhance the mind-body during a pediatric cancer patients’life span.The results of scientific investigations by nurses,particularly those linked to the basic sciences,play a critical role in advancing personalized care in pediatric integrative oncology.
文摘Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD)has always been a frustrating disability for families and no official effective medical interventions has been found to cure this disorder yet.With more attention from the general public both nationally and internationally,more and more families and therapists showed preference to implement complementary and alternative medical(CAM)therapies.This review aims to provide more information about potential CAM that has been applied and their effectiveness.
文摘This editorial is based on the network pharmacology and in vivo study by Qin et al,which investigated the potential therapeutic mechanisms of Panax ginseng(P.ginseng)in ulcerative colitis.The key findings from the study included the identification of the targets of P.ginseng and ulcerative colitis,elucidation of mechanistic pathways,and in vivo validation of the pharmacological activity and therapeutic effect of panaxadiol,a key active component of P.ginseng.This editorial provides additional context regarding the evidence supporting the use of ginseng and other commonly used complementary therapies that clinicians may encounter.We also aim to highlight potential similarities between the mechanisms of popular complementary and conventional medical therapies.
文摘OBJECTIVE： There is increasing interest in complementary and alternative medicine generally, and especially by those affected by chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus. We aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern of complementary and altemative medicine use among patients suffering from diabetes mellitus in Shiraz, southern Iran. Another objective was to explore associated factors for use of complementary and alternative medicine among patients with diabetes mellitus. METHODS： A 19-item semi-structured questionnaire （open- and close-ended） was administered to 239 patients with diabetes mellitus in this cross-sectional study. It was carried out in two outpatient diabetes clinics affiliated with the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. RESULTS： One hundred and eighty patients （75.3%） used at least one type of complementary and alternative medicine in the last year prior to the interview. Patients with diabetes mellitus who were living in a large family （〉 5 members）, not taking insulin, and believed that complementary and alternative medicine have synergistic effects with conventional medicine, were independently and significantly （P values： 0.02, 0.04, and 0.01, respectively） more likely to use complementary and alternative medicine. Most of the users （97.7%） reported use of herbal preparations, and 89.4% of users did not change their medication, neither in medication schedule nor its dosage. CONCLUSION： The use of complementary and alternative medicine, especially herbal remedies, is popular among diabetes patients in Shiraz, Iran. This use is associated with patients＇ family size, type of conventional medications and their view about concomitant use of complementary and conventional medicine.
基金Youth Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China:the Mechanism Study of Shenfuhuang Formula on Cognitive Impairment and Synaptic Plasticity in Sepsis via IL-33/ST2 Pathway-mediated Microglial Polarization(No.82004292)Special Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China:Study on the Mechanism and Material Basis of Jinhua Qinggan Granules in Regulating the Cytokine Storm of Viral Pneumonia(No.82141202)+1 种基金The National Interdisciplinary Innovation Team of TCM under the State Administration of TCM(ZYYCXTD-D-202201)The Financial project of Beijing Municipal Health Commission:Study on Pharmacodynamic Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treating Viral Pneumonia。
文摘Sepsis-associated encephalopathy(SAE)is a common manifestation of sepsis,ranging from mild confusion and delirium to severe cognitive impairment and deep coma.SAE is associated with higher mortality and long-term outcomes,particularly substantial declines in cognitive function.The mechanisms of SAE probably include neuroinflammation that is mediated by systemic inflammation and ischemic lesions in the brain,a disrupted blood–brain barrier,oxidative stress,neurotransmitter dysfunction,and severe microglial activation.Increasing evidence suggests that complementary and alternative medicine,especially Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM),is favorable in alleviating cognitive decline after sepsis.Here,we summarized the studies of traditional herbal remedies,TCM formulas and acupuncture therapy in animal models of neurological dysfunctions after sepsis in recent decades and reviewed their potential mechanisms.
基金Funding was provided from the Praboromarajchanok Institute of Heath Workforce Development, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand and Praboromarajchanok Institute Foundation
文摘OBJECTIVE： Patients with diabetes commonly use complementary and alternative medicine （CAM）. Little is known about types and factors related to CAM use in patients with diabetes in Thailand. This study aimed to examine types and factors that were associated with CAM use in Thai diabetic patients.METHODS： A cross-sectional study of diabetic patients being treated in four primary healthcare units and two secondary hospitals in the north of Thailand was conducted. A questionnaire was used to collect data. Frequency, percentage, and Chi-square test were used to describe or analyze data.RESULTS： The three most common types of CAM used by samples were Daode Xinxi （a modified version of Taichi）, prayer and meditation. Women were more likely to use CAM than men （χ^2=5.038, P=0.018）. Patients aged between 40 and 69 years were more likely to use CAM than those aged younger than 40 or older than 69 years （χ^2=11.041, P=0.026）. Farmers were more likely to use CAM than those with other careers （χ^2=19.248, P=0.007）. Diabetes patients whose time since diagnosis was between 1 and 10 years were more likely to use CAM than those with a longer elapsed time since diagnosis （χ^2= 8.407, P = 0.038）. Marital status, religion, education, health insurance type and conventional treatment approaches were not associated with CAM use in diabetic patients.CONCLUSION： The most common type of CAM used by Thai patients with diabetes was mind and body practice. CAM use was significantly associated with gender, age, career and duration of diabetes However, marital status, religion, education, health insurance types and conventional regimen for diabetics were not associated with CAM use.
文摘OBJECTIVE:The use of complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)is relatively common among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)around the world.Like many other countries,Saudi Arabia has a high incidence of T2DM,and incorporates the use of CAM in its treatment.This study explores the knowledge,attitude and practice(KAP)of CAM therapies among patients with T2DM and explores the relationships between sociodemographics and the KAP of CAM modalities.METHODS:This is a hospital-based,observational,cross-sectional study that selected 302 outpatients with T2DM,from Diabetic Center of King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Hospital,in Riyadh city,in May 2014.Patients were interviewed using a predesigned questionnaire.RESULTS:The mean age of patients was(51.6±10.6)years and 43.4%of them were males.The prevalence of CAM practices was 30.5%;30.39%of them used herbs,20.58%used wet cupping and 17.64%used nutritional supplements and other therapies.The factors found to predict the use of CAM therapies among patients with T2DM were:age above 51 years,unemployment and the participants’knowledge about the effectiveness of CAM products.CONCLUSION:This preliminary study estimated the prevalence of CAM use,revealed positive attitude towards CAM and found three significant predictors of CAM use among patients with T2DM,which is consistent with regional data.A community-based research with a larger sample that targets T2DM population is needed in Saudi Arabia.
文摘OBJECTIVE： Integrative medicine refers to ongoing efforts to combine the best of conventional and evidence-based complementary therapies. While this effort for collaboration is increasing, traditional complementary and alternative medicine （TM-CAM） remains poorly integrated into the current healthcare system of Ghana. At present, it is not clear if practitioners of mainstream medicine favor integrative medicine. The present study, therefore, sought to explore the perceptions of conventional healthcare professionals on integrative medicine. METHODS： A qualitative design composed of semi-structured interviews was conducted with 23 conventional healthcare professionals comprising pharmacists, physicians, nurses and dieticians from two quasi-government hospitals in Accra, Ghana. RESULTS： Participants＇ knowledge of TM-CAM was low, and although they perceived alternative medicine as important to current conventional healthcare in Ghana, they expressed anxieties about the potential negative effects of the use of TM-CAM. This paradox was found to account for the low levels of use among these professionals, as well as the low level of recommendation to their patients. The practitioners surveyed recommended that alternative medicine could be integrated into mainstream allopathic healthcare in Ghana through improving knowledge, training as well as addressing concerns of safety and efficacy. These findings are discussed under the themes： the knowledge gap, the paradox of TM-CAM, experience of use and prescription, and guided integration. We did not observe any differences in views among the participants. CONCLUSION： The conventional healthcare professionals were ready to accept the idea of integrative medicine based on knowledge of widespread use and the potential role of TM-CAM products and practices in improving healthcare delivery in the country. However, to achieve an institutional integration practitioners＇ understanding of TM-CAM must be improved, with specific attention to issues of safety, regulation and evidence-based practice of TM-CAM products and services in Ghana.
基金supported by grants from the University of West London
文摘OBJECTIVE： To compare the use of complementary and alternative medicine （CAM）, including dietary supplements, by individuals with and without features of metabolic syndrome （FeMS）. METHODS： Using a cross sectional study design, information was obtained by self-administered questionnaires from 300 university individuals. FeMS was defined as any individuals self-reporting at least one of the clinical diagnoses of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or obesity. Finally, two categories were created for cross tabulation, and individuals with and without FeMS were compared. RESULTS： Of the 192 individuals completing the study, 39% （n=76） were currently using or had used CAM therapies in the past 12 months. Individuals with FeMS （n=54, 28%） were more likely （P〈0.05） to use different types of CAM therapies, in particular dietary and herbal supplements, aromatherapy and massage therapy compared to individuals without FeMS （n=138, 72%）. CONCLUSION： Individuals with FeMS were more likely to use CAM, particularly supplements. Doctors need to properly inquire about and understand their patients＇ supplement use, especially if CAM therapies are used in coniunction with conventional medications.
基金Supported by the Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences:Design and Application of Mixed Method Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.CI2021B003)Special Project of China Center for Evidence Based Traditional Chinese Medicine:Integrated Innovation and Application of Traditional Trial and Real-World Study of Chinese Medicine in Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Setting(No.2020YJSZX-3)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Public Welfare Research Institutes:the Optimal Subject Setting and Design of Evidence-Based Research Implementation in the Area of Brain Diseases of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.ZZ13-024-3)
文摘OBJECTIVE:To update the current characteristics about the scope and quality of mixed methods research(MMR)in complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)after nearly 10 years.METHODS:A 5-stage approach for conducting a scoping review was adopted.Articles published on the top 10 journals in CAM with the highest impact factor in 2020 were screened for MMR.Information of included articles were extracted,and then synthesized to illustrate the current state.Methodological quality was evaluated according to the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool(MMAT)2018 version.RESULTS:A total of 55(55/2991,2%)articles using mixed methods were retrieved,including 17 medical studies and 38 ethnobotanical studies.We performed an in-depth analysis on the 17 medical studies,which studied cancer,stress,pain,fatigue,exercises,mindfulness intervention,herbal medicine use,art and acupuncture.Thirteen pilot studies applied MMR to evaluate the feasibility of interventions or programs(13/17,76%);phenomenology was inferred as the most common philosophical assumptions(13/17,76%);the most applied type of MMR was convergent design(16/17,94%);integration often took place at integration(12/17,71%).Among the 16 eligible studies for quality appraisal,majority were rated as good(14/16,88%),whereas two studies were rated as poorly described.Primarily,a poor rating was due to incomplete reporting of data analysis and citations in qualitative components;lack of confounder controlling and the sampling strategy in quantitative components;poor description of integration and justification for mixed methods.Comparing with the previous review,fewer MMR were published in 2020 in CAM,but the proportion of studies that clearly reported MMR has increased by 4 times(4%→15%).CONCLUSION:CAM researchers need to realize the benefits that MMR can have on conducting further health care research.Our findings highlight that applying MMR will be helpful to understand the complex dynamics and interdisciplinary nature of complex intervention.In addition,addressing a standardized reporting criteria for MMR is recommended.
文摘The scientific literature presents a modest amount ot evidence m the use or complementary ana al[erna- tire medicine （CAM）. On the other hand, in practice, relevant results are common. The debates among CAM practitioners about the quality and execution of scientific research are important, Therefore, the aim of this review is to gather, synthesize and describe the differentiated methodological models that encompass the complexity of therapeutic interventions. The process of bringing evidence-based medicine into clinical practice in CAM is essential for the growth and strengthening of complementary medicines worldwide.
文摘Background:Pressure ulcers are skin lesions generated by ischemic conditions caused by pressure on soft tissues.Several studies have investigated complementary and alternative medicine(CAM)as preventative and treatment measures for pressure ulcers.Therefore,we systematically reviewed the CAM literature in preventing and treating pressure ulcers.Methods:All clinical trial studies which used CAM were included.We searched different databases,including Scientific Information Database,Irandoc,Google Scholar,PubMed,Medline,Scopus,Cochrane Library,Embase,and Science Direct.The following keywords were used:“complementary and alternative medicine-CAM”,“integrative medicine”,“traditional medicine”,“pressure ulcer”,“bedsore”,“pressure sore healing”,and“prevention”.A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2015 checklist was used to perform analyses.Results:After screening,35 studies were selected.Our investigations suggested that honey,medicinal plants,such as resin salve,Angelica dahurica,Aloe vera,fruits,herbal oils,a combination of several traditional medicine methods,sheepskin,maggot therapy,massage,charcoal,and acupuncture were the most common CAM methods.Conclusion:CAM strategies can prevent and treat pressure ulcers.They reduce wound size,exudate and necrotic tissue levels,inflammation,pain,bleeding,and infections.
文摘Complementary and alternative medicine(CAM) is defined as a group of interventions that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine. This definition already implies that CAM interventions are often not systematically studied; and the research evidence from single trials on CAM is often limited by small sample sizes, unclear methodology, and inadequate statistics. As a result, both, significant and insignificant results are oftenhard to interpret based on single trials. Summarizing the evidence from single CAM trials, qualitative systematic reviews still have to deal with the same problems as individual trials as they can only rely on the original reports. Thus, effects of CAM interventions are often underestimated or overestimated based on single trials or qualitative systematic reviews. While meta-analyses still are limited by the methodological shortcomings of the included studies, a well-conducted meta-analysis can deal with two common problems of CAM trials: inadequate statistics that rely on within-group comparisons and small underpowered sample sizes. Although large and high quality trials are urgently needed for most CAM interventions, funding often is limited. Until higher quality research is available, meta-analyses provide a useful tool to investigate the actual level of evidence of currently published CAM trials. This editorial presents examples of meta-analyses in the field of CAM and discusses how they contribute to the consolidation of evidence.
基金Supported by National High Level Chinese Medicine Hospital Clinical Research Funding,No.DFGZRA-2024GJRC010The Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.2024-JYB-JBZD-031.
文摘BACKGROUND Prediabetes is a high-risk precursor for diabetes development and is associated with increased psychological distress.Conventional pharmacological treatments for prediabetes have limitations,including adverse effects and poor patient compliance.Tuina’s abdominal vibration technique,a traditional non-pharmacological intervention,has shown promising results in glycemic regulation.However,its effects on psychological well-being remain largely unexplored.AIM To investigate efficacy of abdominal vibration at varying frequencies in Tuina for alleviating psychological and metabolic effects in prediabetes patients.METHODS A prospective cohort study(April 2025 to April 2026)at Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine included 120 prediabetes patients.Participants were allocated to three groups based on vibration frequency:(1)Lowfrequency(400 times/minute,n=40);(2)Medium-frequency(500 times/minute,n=40);and(3)High-frequency(600 times/minute,n=40).All participants received 30-minute sessions three times weekly for 3 months,with follow-up at 6 months and 12 months.Primary outcomes included changes in depression(Beck Depression Inventory-Ⅱ),anxiety(State-Trait Anxiety Inventory),and stress(Perceived Stress Scale)levels.RESULTS After a 3-month intervention period,with follow-ups at 6 months and 12 months,patients in all three groups showed significant improvements in depression,anxiety,and stress scores compared to baseline(P<0.001).The high-frequency group demonstrated the most substantial psychological improvements(mean reduction in depression scores:9.2±2.3 points;anxiety:8.7±2.1 points;stress:10.4±2.5 points).These psychological improvements correlated significantly with reductions in insulin resistance(r=0.68,P<0.001).The high-frequency group also showed the most significant improvements in glycemic parameters,with mean reductions in fasting plasma glucose,2-hour postprandial glucose,and glycosylated hemoglobin concentrations of 0.92 mmol/L,1.87 mmol/L,and 0.51%,respectively.Correlation analysis revealed significant associations between improved psychological parameters and enhanced glycemic control.CONCLUSION Tuina’s abdominal vibration technique,especially at high frequency reduces depression,anxiety,and stress in prediabetes patients,correlating with enhanced glycemic control and insulin sensitivity,suggesting a bidirectional relationship between psychological and metabolic health.
基金Supported by Foundation of Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province,China,No.23ZDYF0839Ya’an Philosophic and Social Science Research Plan,No.YAA20240035Ya'an Science and Technology Plan of Economic and Social Development(Health Field),Ya’an,China,No.2024-1.
文摘clear requirements for vigorously inheriting and developing traditional Chinese medicine,which should be an important part of the domestic healthcare system.Electroacupuncture,as a complementary therapy,has significant efficacy and potential in the field of enhanced recovery after surgery based on current available evidence.Despite some challenges,electroacupuncture is expected to play a greater role in healthcare practice through policy support and technological innovation in the future under the“Healthy China 2030”plan.
基金Supported by National TCM Project Application in the 11th Five-Year Period (NO. 2007BAI10B01-041)International Science Joint Project of the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China (No. 2008DFA32200)Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province, China (No.2010J01197)
文摘OBJECTIVE： To investigate the distribution characteristics of TCM syndromes and the related herbal prescriptions for malignant tumors （MT）. METHODS： A clinical database of the TCM syndromes and the herbal prescriptions in treatment of 136 MT patients were established. The data were then analyzed using cluster and frequency analysis. RESULTS： According to the cluster analysis, the TCM syndromes in MT patients mainly included two patterns： deficiency of both Qi and Yin and internal accumulation of toxic heat. The commonlyprescribed herbs were Huangqi （Astraglus）, Nuizhenzi （Fructus Ligustri Lucidi）, Lingzhi （Ganoderma Lucidum）, Huaishan （Dioscorea Opposita）, Xiakucao （Prunella Vulgaris）, and Baihuasheshecao （Herba Hedyotidis）. CONCLUSION： Deficiency of Qi and Yin is the pri- mary syndrome of MT, and internal accumulation of toxic heat is the secondary syndrome. The herbs for Qi mainly heat-cl supplementation and Yin houris used, with earance and the assistance of detoxification. hment are herbs for
文摘Acupuncture is a widely practiced system of medicine that has been in place for thousands of years. Consumer interest and use of acupuncture are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, as it is used to treat a multitude of symptoms and disease processes as well as to maintain health and prevent illness. A growing body of evidence increasingly validates the practice of acupuncture. Further developing scientific data will play an important role in the future of acupuncture and other complementary and alternative medicines in public health. Acupuncture is commonly used concurrently with conventional medicine. Although acupuncture is embraced by consumers and medical professionals misconceptions abound. We have explored and dispelled ten misconceptions common to the practice of acupuncture, utilizing an evidence-based approach. As the trend of merging conventional medical care with acupuncture treatment grows, it is important to develop a conceptual model of integrative medicine. Using a scientific evidence approach will create a structure from which to begin and grow confidence among conventional medical providers. Acupuncture is a safe and effective modality when performed properly by trained professionals. Educating both the consumer and medical community is important to enable appropriate and evidence-based applications of acupuncture and integration with conventional medicine for high-quality patient care.
文摘Background： Sexual health positively correlates with overall wellbeing. Existing therapeutics to enhance male sexual health are limited by factors that include responsiveness, adherence and adverse effects. As the population ages, safe and effective interventions that preserve male sexual function are needed. Published research suggests that various preparations of Kaempferia parviflora, a plant in the Zingiberaceae （ginger） family, support cardiovascular health and may ameliorate erectile function. Objective： The aim of this study was to examine the effects of KaempMaxTM, an ethanol extract of the K. parvi]lora rhizome, on erectile function in healthy middle-aged and older men. Design, setting, participants and interventions： We conducted an open-label, one-arm study on 14 generally healthy males aged 50-68 years with self-reported mild erectile dysfunction, who were not using pre- scription treatments. Participants took 100 mg KaempMaxTM daily for 30 days. Main outcome measures： Evaluations were conducted at baseline and on the final study assessment. Primary efficacy analyses included the International Index of Erectile Function （IIEF）; secondary efficacy analyses included the Global Assessment Question about erectile function. Results： Thirteen participants completed the 30-day study. Supplementation with KaempMaxTM resulted in statistically significant improvements in erectile function, intercourse satisfaction and total scores on the IIEF questionnaire. KaempMaxTM was well tolerated and exhibited an excellent safety profile. Conclusion： Our results suggest that KaempMaxTM may improve erectile function in healthy middle-aged and older men. While the effects were not as pronounced as what might be seen with prescription med- ication, most participants found them satisfactory. Additional, longer and placebo-controlled clinical tri- als will be needed. Trial registration： Clinicaltrials.gov identifier Ncr03389867.
基金supported by the Siriraj Research Fund(No.R015631018)
文摘OBJECTIVE： This study aims to investigate the relationship between major signal points （MaSPs） of the lower extremities used in court-type Thai traditional massage （CTTM） and the corresponding underlying anatomical structures, as well as to determine the short-term changes in blood flow and skin temperature of volunteers experiencing CTTM. METHODS： MaSPs were identified and marked on cadavers before acrylic color was injected. The underlying structures marked with acrylic colors were observed and the anatomical structures were determined. Then, pressure was applied to each MaSP in human volunteers （lateral side of leg and medial side of leg） and blood flow on right dorsalis pedis artery was measured using duplex ultrasound while skin temperature changes were monitored using an infrared themographic camera. RESULTS： Short-term changes in the blood flow parameters, volume flow and average velocity, compared to baseline （P 〈 0.05）, were observed on MaSP of the lower extremity, ML4. Changes in the peak systolic velocity of the area ML5 were also observed relative to baseline. The skin temperature of two different MaSPs on the lateral side of leg （LL4 and LL5） and four on the medial side of leg （ML2, ML3, ML4 and ML5） was significantly increased （P 〈 0.05） at 1 rain after pressure application. CONCLUSION： This study established the clear correlation between the location of MaSP, as defined in CTTM, and the underlying anatomical structures. The effect of massage can stimulate skin blood flow because results showed increased skin temperature and blood flow characteristics. While these results were statistically significant, they may not be clinically relevant, as the present study focused on the immediate physiological effect of manipulation, rather than treatment effects. Thus, this study will serve as baseline data for further clinical studies in CTTM
