Diabetes is a major global metabolic disorder,with the type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)population in China expected to reach 168 million by 2050.Electroacupuncture(EA)and auricular acupuncture represent safe,accessible,...Diabetes is a major global metabolic disorder,with the type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)population in China expected to reach 168 million by 2050.Electroacupuncture(EA)and auricular acupuncture represent safe,accessible,and multitargeted strategies for glycemic control with strong translational potential.Clinical studies indicate that EA,targeting trunk and limb acupoints,can significantly reduce fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin.Mechanistically,EA modulates the neuro-endocrine-immune axis,regulates gut microbiota,and activates insulin signaling pathways.Auricular acupuncture,through vagal innervation,may also exert rapid effects on glucose homeostasis via autonomic modulation.The review’s objective is to synthesize and critically evaluate current clinical trials and animal studies on EA and auricular acupuncture for glycemic control in diabetes,particularly T2DM,and to highlight translational implications,mechanistic insights,and evidence gaps.This review also emphasizes translational considerations by highlighting species differences between rodents and humans-an underappreciated yet critical factor influencing the clinical applicability of preclinical findings.Through the integration of recent research advances,the present review not only consolidates clinical and preclinical evidence but also advances a deeper mechanistic framework and underscores the importance of species-specific factors in bridging experimental research and patient care.Future progress requires rigorously designed,adequately powered,multicenter randomized controlled trials with standardized protocols to validate efficacy and define their role in precision diabetes management.展开更多
This paper introduces part of the content in the association standard,T/CAAM0002–2020 Nomenclature and Location of Acupuncture Points for Laboratory Animals Part 3:Mouse.This standard was released by the China Associ...This paper introduces part of the content in the association standard,T/CAAM0002–2020 Nomenclature and Location of Acupuncture Points for Laboratory Animals Part 3:Mouse.This standard was released by the China Association of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on May 15,2020,implemented on October 31,2020,and published by Standards Press of China.The standard was drafted by the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,and the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine.Principal draftsmen:Xiang-hong JING and Xing-bang HUA.Participating draftsmen:Wan-zhu BAI,Bin XU,Dong-sheng XU,Yi GUO,Tie-ming MA,Xin-jun WANG,and Sheng-feng LU.展开更多
This paper introduces part of the content in the association standard,T/CAAM0002–2020 Nomenclature and Location of Acupuncture Points for Laboratory Animals Part 2:Rat.This standard was released by the China Associat...This paper introduces part of the content in the association standard,T/CAAM0002–2020 Nomenclature and Location of Acupuncture Points for Laboratory Animals Part 2:Rat.This standard was released by the China Association of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on May 15,2020,implemented on October 31,2020,and published by Standards Press of China.The standard was drafted by the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,and the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine.Principal draftsmen:Xiang-hong JING and Xing-bang HUA.Participating draftsmen:Wan-Zhu BAI,Bin XU,Dong-sheng XU,Yi GUO,Tie-ming MA,Xin-jun WANG,and Sheng-feng LU.展开更多
Objective The analgesic effect of acupuncture has been widely accepted.Nevertheless,the mechanism behind its analgesic effect remains elusive,thus impeding the progress of research geared toward enhancing the analgesi...Objective The analgesic effect of acupuncture has been widely accepted.Nevertheless,the mechanism behind its analgesic effect remains elusive,thus impeding the progress of research geared toward enhancing the analgesic effect of acupuncture.This paper investigated the role of acupuncture needle surface textures on acupuncture’s analgesic effect by creating four experimental acupuncture needles with different patterns of surface augmentation.Methods Four types of acupuncture needles with different surface textures(the lined needle,circle needle,sandpaper needle,and threaded needle)were designed.Additionally,the force/torque measurement system used a robot arm and mechanical sensor to measure the force on the needle during insertion and manipulation.To perform acupuncture analgesia experiments,four experimental acupuncture needles and a normal needle were inserted into the Zusanli(ST36)acupoint of rats with inflammatory pain.By comparing the force and torque and the analgesic efficacy of the different acupuncture needles,these experiments tested the role of acupuncture needle body texture on acupuncture analgesia.Results The analgesic effects of different acupuncture needle body textures varied.Specifically,the force required to penetrate the skin with the lined needle was not greater than that for the normal needle;however,the needle with inscribed circles and the sandpaper-roughened needle both required greater force for insertion.Additionally,the torque of the lined needle reached 2×10^(-4)N·m under twisting manipulation,which was four times greater the torque of a normal needle(5×10^(-5)N·m).Furthermore,the lined needle improved pain threshold and mast cell degranulation rate compared to the normal needle.Conclusion Optimizing the texture of acupuncture needles can enhance acupuncture analgesia.The texture of our experimental acupuncture needles had a significant impact on the force needed to penetrate the skin and the torque needed to manipulate the needle;it was also linked to variable analgesic effects.This study provides a theoretical basis for enhancing the analgesic efficacy of acupuncture through the modification of needles and promoting the development of acupuncture therapy.展开更多
BACKGROUND Acupuncture,an ancient practice,is gaining recognition as a complementary and alternative medicine,especially in assisted reproductive technology.It plays a crucial role in enhancing embryo transfer success...BACKGROUND Acupuncture,an ancient practice,is gaining recognition as a complementary and alternative medicine,especially in assisted reproductive technology.It plays a crucial role in enhancing embryo transfer success rates.Research indicates that acupuncture can improve blood flow,increase endometrial receptivity regulate pressure,and affect neuroendocrine activities in the ovaries and uterus during embryo implantation,therefore improving pregnancy outcomes.AIM To highlight recent developments related to acupuncture's influence on embryo transfer and elucidating the precise mechanisms by which acupuncture influences embryo transfer.METHODS We searched database including PubMed,Cochrane Library up to September 2024 for relevant studies and patents to evaluate the effects of acupuncture on women undergoing in vitro fertilization(IVF).The experimental design included an intervention group using needling,and a control group consisting of no needling or sham needling.The main outcome is clinical pregnancy rate(CPR),while secondary includes live birth rate(LBR)and biochemical pregnancy rate(BPR).We examined the influence of adjunctive needling on pregnancy outcomes by analyzing variations in the main outcomes.RESULTS A total of 145 randomized controlled trials involving 27748 participants were analyzed.Data revealed that the overall CPR was significantly elevated in all acupuncture cohorts compared to the control group[relative risk(RR):1.21,95%CI:1.07-1.38,P=0.01].In contrast,the aggregated LBR did not exhibit a corresponding increase,and notable statistical heterogeneity was observed among the studies.Acupuncture-assisted frozen-thawed embryo transfer enhanced the BPR(RR:1.51,95%CI:1.21-1.89,P=0.03)and improved endometrial morphology(RR:1.41,95%CI:1.13-1.75,P=0.01).Furthermore,IVF outcomes were significantly superior in the acupuncture group when acupuncture was administered during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation(RR:1.71,95%CI:1.08-2.13,95%CI:1.08-4.21,P=0.03).CONCLUSION We find that acupuncture positively influences pregnancy rates in women receiving IVF treatment.Nonetheless,there are no established guidelines for optimal acupuncture protocols.Considering the methodological limitations identified in current research,there is a need for larger,methodologically rigorous studies.展开更多
Objective Previous studies indicated a close correlation between manual acupuncture(MA)analgesia and the mobilization of extracellular adenosine triphosphate(ATP)at the acupoints.This study attempted to investigate wh...Objective Previous studies indicated a close correlation between manual acupuncture(MA)analgesia and the mobilization of extracellular adenosine triphosphate(ATP)at the acupoints.This study attempted to investigate whether this relationship is altered with the manipulation patterns of MA.Additionally,we further testified whether these two events parallelly varied with different frequencies of electroacupuncture(EA).Methods Male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups:blank group,model group,MA group,and EA group.MA group was further divided into four sub-groups:standard MA,sham MA,lifting-thrusting MA,and shallow MA.Similarly,EA group was categorized based on current frequency into 2 Hz,2–100 Hz,100 Hz,and ARL67156+100 Hz sub-groups.For the behavioral tests,each group comprised 4–8 rats;for extracellular ATP assessment,each group consisted of 3–6 rats.Complete Freund’s adjuvant(CFA)was injected into the left ankle joint cavity to create an acute adjuvant arthritis(AA)model.A 20-minute session of either MA at left Zusanli(ST36)or EA at bilateral ST36 was administered on AA rats.Thermal hyperalgesia of the hind paw was determined.Extracellular ATP in the interstitial space at ST36(inters.ATP)was extracted using microdialysis and quantified via a luciferase-luciferin assay.Results Modeling induced tenderness at ST36(P<0.001)and higher ATP mobilization(P<0.05)in response to MA.Both standard MA(P<0.001)and lifting-thrusting manipulation(P<0.001)exhibited a remarkable analgesic effect,which was not observed with sham MA,deep insertion plus retention.Verum MA(P<0.001)rather than sham intervention,significantly elevated inters.ATP levels.Notably,shallow MA,penetrating the skin layer and needling with twirling-rotating,demonstrated analgesia and increasing inters.ATP level(P<0.05).Regarding EA,treatments at frequencies of 2 Hz(P<0.01),2–100 Hz(P<0.05),and 100 Hz(P<0.05)significantly alleviated pain.Only the 2–100 Hz(P<0.05)and 100 Hz(P<0.01)interventions,particularly in the latter,potentiated ATP mobilization.Preventing ATP hydrolysis dampened the analgesic effects of the standard MA and 100 Hz EA.Conclusion There is a general correlation between ATP mobilization at the acupoint and the analgesic effect of MA and EA.However,the underlying mechanisms related to shallow MA and 2 Hz EA remain to be elucidated.展开更多
Background:Modern acupuncture anesthesia is a combination of Chinese and Western medicine that integrates the theories of acupuncture with anesthesia.However,some clinical studies of acupuncture anesthesia lack specif...Background:Modern acupuncture anesthesia is a combination of Chinese and Western medicine that integrates the theories of acupuncture with anesthesia.However,some clinical studies of acupuncture anesthesia lack specific descriptions of randomization,allocation concealment,and blinding processes,with subsequent systematic reviews indicating a risk of bias.Objective:Clinical trial registration is essential for the enhancement of the quality of clinical trials.This study aims to summarize the status of clinical trial registrations for acupuncture anesthesia listed on the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform(ICTRP).Search strategy:We searched the ICTRP for clinical trials related to acupuncture anesthesia registered between January 1,2001 and May 31,2023.Additionally,related publications were retrieved from PubMed,Cochrane Library,Embase,China National Knowledge Infrastructure,China Science and Technology Journal Database,and Wanfang Data.Registrations and publications were analyzed for consistency in trial design characteristics.Inclusion criteria:Clinical trials that utilized one of several acupuncture-related therapies in combination with pharmacological anesthesia during the perioperative period were eligible for this review.Data extraction and analysis:Data extracted from articles included type of surgical procedure,perioperative symptoms,study methodology,type of intervention,trial recruitment information,and publication information related to clinical enrollment.Results:A total of 166 trials related to acupuncture anesthesia from 21 countries were included in the analysis.The commonly reported symptoms in the included studies were postoperative nausea and vomiting(19.9%)and postoperative pain(13.3%).The concordance between the publications and the trial protocols in the clinical registry records was poor,with only 31.7%of the studies being fully compatible.Inconsistency rates were high for sample size(39.0%,16/41),blinding(36.6%,15/41),and secondary outcome indicators(24.4%,10/41).Conclusion:The volume of acupuncture anesthesia clinical trials registered in international trial registries over the last 20 years is low,with insufficient disclosure of results.Postoperative nausea and vomiting as well as postoperative pain,are the most investigated for acupuncture intervention.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To observe the effect of different acupuncture frequencies on the abstinence rate which could be used as a reference for optimizing acupuncture cessation programs.METHODS:From July 2018 to June 2022,a total ...OBJECTIVE:To observe the effect of different acupuncture frequencies on the abstinence rate which could be used as a reference for optimizing acupuncture cessation programs.METHODS:From July 2018 to June 2022,a total of 220 smokers were recruited based on inclusion criteria and randomly divided into the high-frequency acupuncture group(HF group,n=110):5 times a week from the 1st to the 4th week,from weeks 5 to 8,three times a week and the low-frequency acupuncture group(LF group,n=110):3 times a week from the 1st to the 4th week,from weeks 5 to 8,twice a week,then treated for 8 weeks and followup at 1 month in Beijing.RESULTS:In total,162 subjects completed the whole study with a drop-out rate of 20.45%.The expiratory CO point abstinence rate was HF group 53/110(48.18%)vs LF group 41/110(37.27%)in Week 8(P=0.102)and HF group 46/110(41.82%)vs LF group 45/110(40.91%)in Week 12(P=0.891)and the HF acupuncture and LF acupuncture were nearly equal in the 8-week abstinence rate.In addition,both HF and LF acupuncture significantly reduced Fagerstr?m test for nicotine dependence scale(FTND)scores(P<0.05),Minnesota nicotine withdrawal scale(MNWS)scores(P<0.05),and Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges scale(QSU-Brief)scores(P<0.05),but HF acupuncture showed some superiority over LF acupuncture in relieving patients'smoking cravings(P<0.05).CONCLUSIONS:The study initially showed that both high-frequency acupuncture and low-frequency acupuncture treatment were safe and effective on smoking cessation for 8 weeks,but high-frequency acupuncture was advantageous in reducing smoking cravings.More accurate acupuncture frequency needs to be validated through larger clinical studies to optimize acupuncture smoking cessation programs.展开更多
Sham acupuncture,as a control intervention in acupuncture studies,has been widely conducted to eval-uate the specific effect of acupuncture.However,there was no relevant particular reporting guideline,so the reporting...Sham acupuncture,as a control intervention in acupuncture studies,has been widely conducted to eval-uate the specific effect of acupuncture.However,there was no relevant particular reporting guideline,so the reporting quality of sham acupuncture was low,which could hinder the precise understanding and interpretation of details and implementation background of sham acupuncture by researchers.In order to standardize the reporting of sham acupuncture and improve its quality,SHam Acupuncture REporting guidelines and a checklist in clinical trials(SHARE)was developed by a research team from Beijing Univer-sity of Chinese Medicine.The SAHRE standardizes the reporting of sham acupuncture from 10 categories,including brief name,rationales,details of sham acupuncture,treatment regimen of sham acupuncture,the information informed or explained to patients,practitioner information,modifications of protocol,communication between practitioner and patient,practitioner adherence and blinding.This article elab-orates the development process and key content of SHARE in order to facilitate its application by re-searchers.展开更多
Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)is a persistent gastrointestinal ailment driven by a range of immunological and pathophysiological factors,and often exposes patients to persistent pain and a greater risk of tumor devel...Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)is a persistent gastrointestinal ailment driven by a range of immunological and pathophysiological factors,and often exposes patients to persistent pain and a greater risk of tumor development.In clinical settings,sulfasalazine is among the most common treatments used to manage IBD,but such treatment can result in a range of side effects in addition to leading to relatively poor efficacy.In certain refractory cases,patients must undergo surgical resection of affected tissues,underscoring the need to devise safer and more efficacious forms of alternative treatment.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)have recently been shown to exhibit been shown to exhibit robust immunomodulatory activity and potential for differentiation such that they may be an effective tool for treating IBD.Acupuncture has also shown promise as an efficacious treatment option for IBD,performing better than drug-based treatments in certain clinical trials.Acupuncture is capable of enhancing endogenous MSC proliferation and homing,enabling these cells to more effectively migrate toward target lesion sites and to promote tissue repair.In light of these findings,this review was formulated to survey the potential therapeutic advantages of combining MSCs and acupuncture when attempting to treat IBD.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To explore the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone-setting therapy for the treatment of Tourette syndrome.METHODS:We randomly divided 600 patients at a ratio of 1∶1∶1 i...OBJECTIVE:To explore the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone-setting therapy for the treatment of Tourette syndrome.METHODS:We randomly divided 600 patients at a ratio of 1∶1∶1 into three groups:group A(acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone setting therapy group),group B(acupuncture group),and group C(tiapride group).After two months of treatment,the Yale global tic severity scale(YGTSS)score reduction,improvement in social function impairment,clinical efficacy,and long-term efficacy in the three groups were compared.RESULTS:After treatment,in the analysis of YGTSS score reduction,social function impairment improvement,the clinical control rate,and long-term efficacy,the results were all Group A>Group B>Group C,with a statistically significant difference(P<0.05).However,the total clinical efficacy of treatment in group A(94.9%)was not significantly different from that in group B(91.8%).Adverse reactions did not occur in groups A and B,and several adverse reactions occurred in 29%(n=58)of the group C patients.CONCLUSION:Compared with traditional drug therapy,acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone setting therapy has better clinical and long-term efficacy.This treatment strategy can improve the social function of children and prevent adverse reactions to drugs.展开更多
BACKGROUND Laparoscopic surgery has emerged as the preferred treatment for acute appendicitis,a common acute abdominal condition.Despite surgical advances,postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction and delayed recover...BACKGROUND Laparoscopic surgery has emerged as the preferred treatment for acute appendicitis,a common acute abdominal condition.Despite surgical advances,postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction and delayed recovery continue to negatively impact rehabilitation outcomes and patient quality of life.Laser acupuncture represents a promising emerging complementary therapy with potential benefits for promoting functional recovery.AIM To evaluate the clinical efficacy of laser acupuncture in enhancing gastrointestinal function recovery following laparoscopic appendectomy and to investigate its potential applications in postoperative rehabilitation.METHODS This retrospective controlled clinical study selected 120 acute appendicitis patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy from January 2022 to December 2023 at a tertiary hospital.Patients were randomly divided into two groups:Routine treatment group(n=60)and laser acupuncture intervention group(n=60).There were no significant statistical differences in baseline characteristics(age,gender,body mass index,appendicitis severity)between the two groups.The routine treatment group received standard postoperative care,while the laser acupuncture intervention group received additional laser acupuncture treatment on top of standard care.Key observation indicators included time to first exhaust,time to first bowel movement,time to gastrointestinal function recovery,and postoperative complication rates.RESULTS Patients in the laser acupuncture intervention group showed significantly faster gastrointestinal function recovery compared to the routine treatment group.Specifically,time to first exhaust was significantly shortened(intervention group:12.5±2.3 hours vs control group:18.7±3.1 hours,P<0.05),time to first bowel movement was earlier(intervention group:36.4±4.6 hours vs control group:48.2±5.7 hours,P<0.05),postoperative complication rate was significantly reduced(intervention group:8.3%vs control group:20.0%,P<0.05),postoperative pain score was significantly lower(intervention group:3.2±1.1 vs control group:4.7±1.5,P<0.05),and intestinal motility recovery was faster and more effective.CONCLUSION Laser acupuncture,as an auxiliary treatment method,can significantly promote gastrointestinal function recovery in patients after laparoscopic appendectomy,reduce complications,and improve postoperative comfort.This technique has advantages such as minimal invasiveness,rapid recovery,and few side effects,making it worthy of further clinical promotion and application.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to explore the clinical effect of acupuncture therapy for menstruation regu-lation and pregnancy promotion on thin endometrium in the real world.Design:This study is a single-center pragmati...Objective:This study aimed to explore the clinical effect of acupuncture therapy for menstruation regu-lation and pregnancy promotion on thin endometrium in the real world.Design:This study is a single-center pragmatic randomized controlled trial blinded to the statisticians.Using the“blockrand”software package,based on the age(≥35,<35),37 patients were randomized into an intervention group(19 cases)and a control group(18 cases).After reassignment regarding patient preference,21 patients were included in the intervention group and 16 in the control group.Setting:The trial was executed in the Specialty Outpatient Clinic,Acupuncture-Moxibustion Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,from March 1,2019,to September 30,2020.Participants:The study included 37 patients with thin endometrium and without previous acupuncture treatment.Intervention:The intervention group was administered acupuncture for menstruation regulation and pregnancy promotion and a small-dose of progynova(2 mg daily),while the control group was adminis-tered a large-dose of progynova(4 mg daily).Interventions started from Day 5 of menstruation until the end of ovulation under B-ultrasound monitoring.The intervention lasted for three menstrual cycles.Measurements:Primary outcomes were changes in endometrial thickness between baseline and after intervention completion and the difference between the two groups after intervention.The secondary outcomes were endometrial and subendometrial blood flow,serum estradiol levels,menstrual conditions,and adverse reactions.Results:(1)Comparison of each indicator before and after intervention completion in the two groups:in the intervention group,the differences were significant in endometrial thickness,menstrual score,estra-diol(E2)level in ovulatory period,the pulsatility index(PI)and resistance index(RI)of uterine artery,the ratio of peak systolic velocity to end-diastolic velocity(S/D),the endometrial vascular index(VI),flow index(FI),and vascular flow index(VFI)and volume(P<0.01).In the control group,significant changes were observed in endometrial thickness,menstrual score,and E2 before and after the interven-tion(P<0.05),and no differences were observed in uterine artery PI,RI,S/D and endometrial VI,FI,VFI,and volume(P>0.05).Compared with the control group,the intervention group showed significant differences in endometrial thickness,menstrual score,E2,uterine artery PI,RI,S/D,and endometrial VI,FI,VFI,and volume after intervention(P<0.01).No adverse reactions were reported in the intervention group.In contrast,the control group had two cases of nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort after med-ication,eight cases of breast distention during medication,and one case of breast nodules enlarged by 1 cm after trial completion.展开更多
Objective The present study evaluated the effects of deep acupuncture at Weizhong acupoint(BL40)on bladder function and brain activity in a rat model of overactive bladder(OAB),and investigated the possible mechanisms...Objective The present study evaluated the effects of deep acupuncture at Weizhong acupoint(BL40)on bladder function and brain activity in a rat model of overactive bladder(OAB),and investigated the possible mechanisms around the acupuncture area that initiate the effects of acupuncture.Methods Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups,comprising a control group,model group,group treated with deep acupuncture at BL40,group treated with shallow acupuncture at BL40,group treated with acupuncture at non-acupoint next to BL40,and group treated with acupuncture at Xuanzhong(GB39).Urodynamic evaluation was used to observe the urination,and functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to observe the brain activation.The mechanism of acupuncture at BL40 in regulating bladder function was explored by toluidine blue staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,and the mechanism was verified by stabilizing mast cells(MCs)or blocking tibial nerve.Results Deep acupuncture at BL40 significantly increased the intercontraction interval in OAB rats and enhanced the mean amplitude of low frequency fluctuation of primary motor cortex(M1),periaquaductal gray matter(PAG),and pontine micturition center(PMC).It also increased the zero-lag functional connectivity between M1 and PAG and between PAG and PMC.Shallow acupuncture at BL40 and acupuncture at non-acupoint or GB39 had no effect on these indexes.Further studies suggested that deep acupuncture at BL40 increased the number and degranulation rate of MCs as well as the contents of 5-hydroxytryptamine,substance P,and histamine in the tissues around BL40.Blocking the tibial nerve by lidocaine injection or inhibiting MC degranulation by sodium cromoglycate injection obstructed the effects of acupuncture on restoring urinary function and modulating brain activation in OAB rats.Conclusion Deep acupuncture at BL40 may be more effective for inhibiting OAB by promoting degranulation of MCs around the acupoint and stimulating tibial nerve,thereby regulating the activation of the brain area that controls the lower urinary tract.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture(EA)at scalp motor area for treating post-stroke wrist dyskinesia and its influence on the function of wrist movement-related agonistic muscles.METHODS:A randomi...OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture(EA)at scalp motor area for treating post-stroke wrist dyskinesia and its influence on the function of wrist movement-related agonistic muscles.METHODS:A randomized,single-blind,controlled clinical trial was conducted.Sixty-six patients undergoing post-stroke wrist dyskinesia were enrolled and randomized 1:1 to EA or control group.Patients in the control group received manual acupuncture in the scalp motor area(MS 6)on the lesion side.The same acupoint was selected to accept EA stimulation in the EA group.All patients were treated six times a week for three weeks.The primary outcome was the Chinese Stroke Scale(CSS)score.The secondary outcomes included upper limb-related Barthel Index(BI)score,active range of motion(AROM)of the wrist joint,and root mean square(RMS)of the four agonistic muscles associated with wrist motion on the hemiplegic side of patients,i.e.,the extensor carpi radialis longus(ECRL),extensor digitorum(ED),flexor carpi radialis(FCR)and flexor carpi ulnaris(FCU).The above indicators were measured before and after three weeks of treatment.RESULTS:After 3-week treatment,the CSS score and AROM of wrist dorsiflexion of the EA group were better than those in the control group(P=0.038,P=0.047).The differences between the two groups of BI scores and AROM of wrist flexion were not significant(P>0.05).All RMS of the EA group were higher than those in the control group(ECRL:P=0.047,ED:P=0.048,FCR:P=0.049,FCU:P=0.047).The total effective rate in the EA group was 87.50%(28/32),which was higher than that in the control group(77.42%,24/31,P=0.048).CONCLUSION:EA stimulation of the scalp motor area can promote the recovery of the strength and function of the agonistic muscles related to wrist movement and effectively improve post-stroke wrist dyskinesia.展开更多
Objective:The occurrence and development of atrial fibrillation(AF)are influenced by the autonomic nervous system and inflammation.Acupuncture is an effective treatment for AF.This study explored the protective effect...Objective:The occurrence and development of atrial fibrillation(AF)are influenced by the autonomic nervous system and inflammation.Acupuncture is an effective treatment for AF.This study explored the protective effects of acupuncture in a rat model of paroxysmal AF and investigated its mechanisms.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats(n=130)were randomly divided into blank control(Con),sham operation(Sham),AF,and acupuncture treatment(Acu)groups.A paroxysmal AF model was established by rapid atrial pacing through the jugular vein.Rats in the Acu group were immobilized to receive acupuncture treatment at Neiguan acupoint(PC6)for 20 min daily for seven days.The other groups were immobilized for the same duration over the treatment period but did not receive acupuncture.The AF induction rate,AF duration,cardiac electrophysiological parameters,and heart rate variability were evaluated by monitoring surface electrocardiogram and vagus nerve discharge signals.After the intervention,the rats were euthanized,and atrial morphology was assessed using haematoxylin and eosin staining.The expression of macrophage F4/80 antigen(F4/80)and cluster of differentiation(CD)86 in atrial myocardial tissue was detected using immunohistochemistry,immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.The expression levels or contents of interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,tumor necrosis factor-a(TNF-a),a7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor(a7nAChR),phosphorylated Janus kinase 2(p-JAK2),and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(p-STAT3)in atrial myocardial tissue were detected using Western blotting,reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction,or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The role of a7nAChR in acupuncture treatment was verified by intraperitoneal injection of the a7nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine(MLA).Results:Compared with the AF group,acupuncture significantly reduced AF duration and induction rate,improved cardiac electrophysiology by enhancing vagus nerve activity and regulating autonomic balance.It also decreased the pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage proportion,alleviating myocardial injury and infiltration.MLA weakened acupuncture's electrophysiological improvement and anti-inflammatory effect.Results suggest that acupuncture triggers the a7nAChR-JAK2/STAT3 pathway and exerts cardioprotection via neuroimmune regulation.Conclusion:Acupuncture significantly reduced the AF induction rate,shortened AF duration,improved cardiac electrophysiological parameters,enhanced vagus nerve activity,and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and inflammatory factors in rats with paroxysmal AF.展开更多
Objective:Comorbid pain and depression are common but remain difficult to treat.Electroacupuncture(EA)can effectively improve symptoms of depression and relieve pain,but its neural mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,...Objective:Comorbid pain and depression are common but remain difficult to treat.Electroacupuncture(EA)can effectively improve symptoms of depression and relieve pain,but its neural mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging(rs-fMRI)to detect cerebral changes after initiating a mouse pain model via constriction of the infraorbital nerve(CION)and then treating these animals with EA.Methods:Forty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into 4 groups:control,CION model,EA,and sham acupuncture(without needle insertion).EA was performed on the acupoints Baihui(GV20)and Zusanli(ST36)for 20 min,once a day for 10 consecutive days.The mechanical withdrawal threshold was tested3 days after the surgery and every 3 days after the intervention.The depressive behavior was evaluated with the tail suspension test,open-field test,elevated plus maze(EPM),sucrose preference test,and marble burying test.The rs-fMRI was used to detect the cerebral changes of the functional connectivity(FC)in the mice following EA treatment.Results:Compared with the CION group,the mechanical withdrawal threshold increased in the EA group at the end of the intervention(P<0.05);the immobility time in tail suspension test decreased(P<0.05);and the times of the open arm entry and the open arm time in the EPM increased(both P<0.001).There was no difference in the sucrose preference or marble burying tests(both P>0.05).The fMRI results showed that EA treatment downregulated the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and regional homogeneity values,while these indicators were elevated in brain regions including the amygdala,hippocampus and cerebral cortex in the CION model for comorbid pain and depression.Selecting the amygdala as the seed region,we found that the FC was higher in the CION group than in the control group.Meanwhile,EA treatment was able to decrease the FC between the amygdala and other brain regions including the caudate putamen,thalamus,and parts of the cerebral cortex.Conclusion:EA can downregulate the abnormal activation of neurons in the amygdala and improve its FC with other brain regions,thus exerting analgesic and antidepressant effects.Please cite this article as:Yin X,Zeng XL,Lin JJ,Xu WQ,Cui KY,Guo XT,Li W,Xu SF.Brain functional changes following electroacupuncture in a mouse model of comorbid pain and depression:A restingstate functional magnetic resonance imaging study.展开更多
Pain is a subjective and unpleasant sensation that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals.Chronic pain represents one of the most challenging public health issues,and ensuring effective pain management i...Pain is a subjective and unpleasant sensation that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals.Chronic pain represents one of the most challenging public health issues,and ensuring effective pain management is a fundamental right of individuals and a sacred duty of healthcare providers.Cannabis,one of the earliest recognized medicinal plants,contains cannabinoids,which are non-opioid substances that modulate nociceptive responses.Electroacupuncture(EA),characterized by its low-risk and well-tolerated nature,is pivotal in pain management.The endocannabinoid system consists of endocannabinoids,cannabinoid receptors,and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid synthesis,degradation,and transport.Recently,the role of the endocannabinoid system in pain development and EA analgesia has attracted considerable research attention.Studies have highlighted the role of the endocannabinoid system in various types of pain,including inflammatory pain,neuropathic pain,and cancer-related pain,as well as in EA analgesia.This study aims to review the mechanisms of endocannabinoid system involvement in pain modulation and EA analgesia to provide insights to inform clinical approaches to pain management.展开更多
BACKGROUND Adult-onset Still's disease(AOSD)is a rare autoinflammatory disease charac-terized by nonspecific symptoms such as fever,rash,sore throat and arthralgia.This paper reports a clinical case of AOSD succes...BACKGROUND Adult-onset Still's disease(AOSD)is a rare autoinflammatory disease charac-terized by nonspecific symptoms such as fever,rash,sore throat and arthralgia.This paper reports a clinical case of AOSD successfully treated with Bo’s abdo-minal acupuncture(BAA).CASE SUMMARY We report a 20-year-old man who suffered from cold exposure,presenting with high fever,rash,sore throat,arthralgia,and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate,leukocytosis with neutrophilic predominance,elevated ferritin,elevated C-reactive protein,and negative rheumatoid factors.He was diagnosed with AOSD based on the Yamaguchi criteria.After treatment with traditional Chinese medi-cine(TCM)decoction and prednisone acetate tablets,there was some alleviation of sore throat,joint and muscle pain,and fever,but he still had persistent low-grade fever,rash,sore throat and arthralgia.He went to the TCM acupuncture outpatient department to receive BAA.Abdominal acupoints Zhongwan(CV12),Xiawan(CV10),0.5 cm below Xiawan(CV10),Qihai(CV6),Guanyuan(CV4),bilateral Qixue(KI13),bilateral Huaroumen(ST24),bilateral Shangfengshidian(AB1)and bilateral Daheng(SP15)were selected.After 3 months treatment,all symptoms disappeared,and the laboratory examination returned to normal levels.He did not take glucocorticoids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs afterwards,and no relapse was observed during the 3-year follow-up period.CONCLUSION BAA can be used as a complementary medical approach for treatment of AOSD.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to observe the effects of xiusanzhen acupuncture(olfactory three-needling therapy)on the behavior,hippocampal histopathology and microglial(MG)activation of rats with vascular dementia(VD),a...Objective:This study aimed to observe the effects of xiusanzhen acupuncture(olfactory three-needling therapy)on the behavior,hippocampal histopathology and microglial(MG)activation of rats with vascular dementia(VD),and to assess the role of the trigeminal nerve.Methods:Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to the sham-operation,model,xiusanzhen,and trigeminal neurotomy groups(n=15 per group).Bilateral common carotid artery ligation was performed to prepare the VD models.Models of trigeminal neurotomy were prepared through the excision of the frontal nerve and infraorbital nerve.Xiusanzhen acupuncture was delivered via electric stimulation.The acupoints selected were bilateral“Yingxiang(LI20)”and“Yintang(EX-HN3)”,and the stimulation parameters were as follows:disperse-dense wave,at a frequency of 2/15HZ and intensity of 1 mA.The course of treatment was once daily,with one course lasting five days,followed by an interval of two days,yielding a total of four courses.Behavioral changes were detected using the Morris water maze,changes in histomorphology in the hippocampal CA1 region were determined with hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining,and MG activation in the hippocampal CA1 region was detected using immunofluorescence.Results:The escape latency:From days 3 to 5,the escape latency was higher in the model group compared to the sham-operation group(P<0.05),but was lower in the xiusanzhen group compared to the model and trigeminal neurotomy groups(P<0.05).The frequency for platform crossing and swimming distance:both were reduced in the model group compared to the sham-operation group(P<0.01);and were elevated in the xiusanzhen group compared to the model group and trigeminal neurotomy group(P<0.01).Hippocampal pathomorphological changes:In the sham-operation group,the morphological structure and nucleoli were well-defined;in the model group and the trigeminal neurotomy group,cell numbers were reduced and karyopyknosis increased;while in the xiusanzhen group,the cell numbers were elevated and karyopyknosis was reduced compared with the model group.MG:the positive rate was higher in the model group compared to the sham-operation group(P<0.05);lower in the xiusanzhen group compared to the model group(P<0.05);and higher in the trigeminal neurotomy group compared to the xiusanzhen group(P<0.05).Conclusion:Xiusanzhen acupuncture attenuates cognitive impairment in VD rats,inhibits MG activation,and reduces hippocampal tissue damage.Its effects depend on the structural integrity of the trigeminal nerve.展开更多
基金Supported by The National Natural Science Foundation,Youth Science Fund Project,No.82305376The Youth Talent Support Project of the China Acupuncture and Moxibustion Association,No.2024-2026ZGZJXH-QNRC005+3 种基金The 2024 Jiangsu Province Youth Science and Technology Talent Support Project,No.JSTJ-2024-3802025 Jiangsu Provincial Science and Technology Think Tank Program Project,No.JSKX0125035The National College Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program,No.202410315020ZProvincial Undergraduate Innovation Training Program,No.202410315149Y.
文摘Diabetes is a major global metabolic disorder,with the type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)population in China expected to reach 168 million by 2050.Electroacupuncture(EA)and auricular acupuncture represent safe,accessible,and multitargeted strategies for glycemic control with strong translational potential.Clinical studies indicate that EA,targeting trunk and limb acupoints,can significantly reduce fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin.Mechanistically,EA modulates the neuro-endocrine-immune axis,regulates gut microbiota,and activates insulin signaling pathways.Auricular acupuncture,through vagal innervation,may also exert rapid effects on glucose homeostasis via autonomic modulation.The review’s objective is to synthesize and critically evaluate current clinical trials and animal studies on EA and auricular acupuncture for glycemic control in diabetes,particularly T2DM,and to highlight translational implications,mechanistic insights,and evidence gaps.This review also emphasizes translational considerations by highlighting species differences between rodents and humans-an underappreciated yet critical factor influencing the clinical applicability of preclinical findings.Through the integration of recent research advances,the present review not only consolidates clinical and preclinical evidence but also advances a deeper mechanistic framework and underscores the importance of species-specific factors in bridging experimental research and patient care.Future progress requires rigorously designed,adequately powered,multicenter randomized controlled trials with standardized protocols to validate efficacy and define their role in precision diabetes management.
文摘This paper introduces part of the content in the association standard,T/CAAM0002–2020 Nomenclature and Location of Acupuncture Points for Laboratory Animals Part 3:Mouse.This standard was released by the China Association of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on May 15,2020,implemented on October 31,2020,and published by Standards Press of China.The standard was drafted by the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,and the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine.Principal draftsmen:Xiang-hong JING and Xing-bang HUA.Participating draftsmen:Wan-zhu BAI,Bin XU,Dong-sheng XU,Yi GUO,Tie-ming MA,Xin-jun WANG,and Sheng-feng LU.
文摘This paper introduces part of the content in the association standard,T/CAAM0002–2020 Nomenclature and Location of Acupuncture Points for Laboratory Animals Part 2:Rat.This standard was released by the China Association of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on May 15,2020,implemented on October 31,2020,and published by Standards Press of China.The standard was drafted by the Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,and the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine.Principal draftsmen:Xiang-hong JING and Xing-bang HUA.Participating draftsmen:Wan-Zhu BAI,Bin XU,Dong-sheng XU,Yi GUO,Tie-ming MA,Xin-jun WANG,and Sheng-feng LU.
基金funded by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.12172092,82174488,and 82305416)Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function(No.21DZ2271800)+1 种基金Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission(No.23YF1418300)Scientific Research Project on Traditional Chinese Medicine of Shanghai Municipal Health Commission—Youth Guidance Category(No.2022QN018).
文摘Objective The analgesic effect of acupuncture has been widely accepted.Nevertheless,the mechanism behind its analgesic effect remains elusive,thus impeding the progress of research geared toward enhancing the analgesic effect of acupuncture.This paper investigated the role of acupuncture needle surface textures on acupuncture’s analgesic effect by creating four experimental acupuncture needles with different patterns of surface augmentation.Methods Four types of acupuncture needles with different surface textures(the lined needle,circle needle,sandpaper needle,and threaded needle)were designed.Additionally,the force/torque measurement system used a robot arm and mechanical sensor to measure the force on the needle during insertion and manipulation.To perform acupuncture analgesia experiments,four experimental acupuncture needles and a normal needle were inserted into the Zusanli(ST36)acupoint of rats with inflammatory pain.By comparing the force and torque and the analgesic efficacy of the different acupuncture needles,these experiments tested the role of acupuncture needle body texture on acupuncture analgesia.Results The analgesic effects of different acupuncture needle body textures varied.Specifically,the force required to penetrate the skin with the lined needle was not greater than that for the normal needle;however,the needle with inscribed circles and the sandpaper-roughened needle both required greater force for insertion.Additionally,the torque of the lined needle reached 2×10^(-4)N·m under twisting manipulation,which was four times greater the torque of a normal needle(5×10^(-5)N·m).Furthermore,the lined needle improved pain threshold and mast cell degranulation rate compared to the normal needle.Conclusion Optimizing the texture of acupuncture needles can enhance acupuncture analgesia.The texture of our experimental acupuncture needles had a significant impact on the force needed to penetrate the skin and the torque needed to manipulate the needle;it was also linked to variable analgesic effects.This study provides a theoretical basis for enhancing the analgesic efficacy of acupuncture through the modification of needles and promoting the development of acupuncture therapy.
基金Supported by Funding from the Jiangsu Provincial Science and Technology Plan Special Foundation,No.BE2022712The Special Research Project on The Development Plan of Traditional Chinese Medicine Technology in Jiangsu Province,No.ZT202120.
文摘BACKGROUND Acupuncture,an ancient practice,is gaining recognition as a complementary and alternative medicine,especially in assisted reproductive technology.It plays a crucial role in enhancing embryo transfer success rates.Research indicates that acupuncture can improve blood flow,increase endometrial receptivity regulate pressure,and affect neuroendocrine activities in the ovaries and uterus during embryo implantation,therefore improving pregnancy outcomes.AIM To highlight recent developments related to acupuncture's influence on embryo transfer and elucidating the precise mechanisms by which acupuncture influences embryo transfer.METHODS We searched database including PubMed,Cochrane Library up to September 2024 for relevant studies and patents to evaluate the effects of acupuncture on women undergoing in vitro fertilization(IVF).The experimental design included an intervention group using needling,and a control group consisting of no needling or sham needling.The main outcome is clinical pregnancy rate(CPR),while secondary includes live birth rate(LBR)and biochemical pregnancy rate(BPR).We examined the influence of adjunctive needling on pregnancy outcomes by analyzing variations in the main outcomes.RESULTS A total of 145 randomized controlled trials involving 27748 participants were analyzed.Data revealed that the overall CPR was significantly elevated in all acupuncture cohorts compared to the control group[relative risk(RR):1.21,95%CI:1.07-1.38,P=0.01].In contrast,the aggregated LBR did not exhibit a corresponding increase,and notable statistical heterogeneity was observed among the studies.Acupuncture-assisted frozen-thawed embryo transfer enhanced the BPR(RR:1.51,95%CI:1.21-1.89,P=0.03)and improved endometrial morphology(RR:1.41,95%CI:1.13-1.75,P=0.01).Furthermore,IVF outcomes were significantly superior in the acupuncture group when acupuncture was administered during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation(RR:1.71,95%CI:1.08-2.13,95%CI:1.08-4.21,P=0.03).CONCLUSION We find that acupuncture positively influences pregnancy rates in women receiving IVF treatment.Nonetheless,there are no established guidelines for optimal acupuncture protocols.Considering the methodological limitations identified in current research,there is a need for larger,methodologically rigorous studies.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China:8247464082174488+1 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai:22ZR1461500Shanghai Key Laboratory for Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function:21DZ2271800。
文摘Objective Previous studies indicated a close correlation between manual acupuncture(MA)analgesia and the mobilization of extracellular adenosine triphosphate(ATP)at the acupoints.This study attempted to investigate whether this relationship is altered with the manipulation patterns of MA.Additionally,we further testified whether these two events parallelly varied with different frequencies of electroacupuncture(EA).Methods Male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups:blank group,model group,MA group,and EA group.MA group was further divided into four sub-groups:standard MA,sham MA,lifting-thrusting MA,and shallow MA.Similarly,EA group was categorized based on current frequency into 2 Hz,2–100 Hz,100 Hz,and ARL67156+100 Hz sub-groups.For the behavioral tests,each group comprised 4–8 rats;for extracellular ATP assessment,each group consisted of 3–6 rats.Complete Freund’s adjuvant(CFA)was injected into the left ankle joint cavity to create an acute adjuvant arthritis(AA)model.A 20-minute session of either MA at left Zusanli(ST36)or EA at bilateral ST36 was administered on AA rats.Thermal hyperalgesia of the hind paw was determined.Extracellular ATP in the interstitial space at ST36(inters.ATP)was extracted using microdialysis and quantified via a luciferase-luciferin assay.Results Modeling induced tenderness at ST36(P<0.001)and higher ATP mobilization(P<0.05)in response to MA.Both standard MA(P<0.001)and lifting-thrusting manipulation(P<0.001)exhibited a remarkable analgesic effect,which was not observed with sham MA,deep insertion plus retention.Verum MA(P<0.001)rather than sham intervention,significantly elevated inters.ATP levels.Notably,shallow MA,penetrating the skin layer and needling with twirling-rotating,demonstrated analgesia and increasing inters.ATP level(P<0.05).Regarding EA,treatments at frequencies of 2 Hz(P<0.01),2–100 Hz(P<0.05),and 100 Hz(P<0.05)significantly alleviated pain.Only the 2–100 Hz(P<0.05)and 100 Hz(P<0.01)interventions,particularly in the latter,potentiated ATP mobilization.Preventing ATP hydrolysis dampened the analgesic effects of the standard MA and 100 Hz EA.Conclusion There is a general correlation between ATP mobilization at the acupoint and the analgesic effect of MA and EA.However,the underlying mechanisms related to shallow MA and 2 Hz EA remain to be elucidated.
基金supported by grants from Shanghai Municipal Health Commission and Shanghai Municipal Administration of TCM—Standardization of TCM in 2023“Clinical Practice Guide for Combined Acupuncture-Drug Anesthesia”(No.2023JS05)Shanghai Clinical Medical Research Center of Acupuncture and Moxibustion(No.20MC1920500)+1 种基金Shanghai master Chinese medicine practitioners academic experience research studio construction project(No.SHGZS-202212)Shanghai Key Clinical Specialties 2019 Accreditation Program(No.shslczdzk04701)。
文摘Background:Modern acupuncture anesthesia is a combination of Chinese and Western medicine that integrates the theories of acupuncture with anesthesia.However,some clinical studies of acupuncture anesthesia lack specific descriptions of randomization,allocation concealment,and blinding processes,with subsequent systematic reviews indicating a risk of bias.Objective:Clinical trial registration is essential for the enhancement of the quality of clinical trials.This study aims to summarize the status of clinical trial registrations for acupuncture anesthesia listed on the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform(ICTRP).Search strategy:We searched the ICTRP for clinical trials related to acupuncture anesthesia registered between January 1,2001 and May 31,2023.Additionally,related publications were retrieved from PubMed,Cochrane Library,Embase,China National Knowledge Infrastructure,China Science and Technology Journal Database,and Wanfang Data.Registrations and publications were analyzed for consistency in trial design characteristics.Inclusion criteria:Clinical trials that utilized one of several acupuncture-related therapies in combination with pharmacological anesthesia during the perioperative period were eligible for this review.Data extraction and analysis:Data extracted from articles included type of surgical procedure,perioperative symptoms,study methodology,type of intervention,trial recruitment information,and publication information related to clinical enrollment.Results:A total of 166 trials related to acupuncture anesthesia from 21 countries were included in the analysis.The commonly reported symptoms in the included studies were postoperative nausea and vomiting(19.9%)and postoperative pain(13.3%).The concordance between the publications and the trial protocols in the clinical registry records was poor,with only 31.7%of the studies being fully compatible.Inconsistency rates were high for sample size(39.0%,16/41),blinding(36.6%,15/41),and secondary outcome indicators(24.4%,10/41).Conclusion:The volume of acupuncture anesthesia clinical trials registered in international trial registries over the last 20 years is low,with insufficient disclosure of results.Postoperative nausea and vomiting as well as postoperative pain,are the most investigated for acupuncture intervention.
基金the Fund of Science and Technology Innovation Project of Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences Project:Self-service Acupuncture Smoking Cessation Research and Development(No.CI2021A03506)Fund of Capital Health Development Special Research Project:Research on Development and Clinical Applicalion of Wrist Acupuncture Smoking Cessation Instrument(No.2022-1-4281)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To observe the effect of different acupuncture frequencies on the abstinence rate which could be used as a reference for optimizing acupuncture cessation programs.METHODS:From July 2018 to June 2022,a total of 220 smokers were recruited based on inclusion criteria and randomly divided into the high-frequency acupuncture group(HF group,n=110):5 times a week from the 1st to the 4th week,from weeks 5 to 8,three times a week and the low-frequency acupuncture group(LF group,n=110):3 times a week from the 1st to the 4th week,from weeks 5 to 8,twice a week,then treated for 8 weeks and followup at 1 month in Beijing.RESULTS:In total,162 subjects completed the whole study with a drop-out rate of 20.45%.The expiratory CO point abstinence rate was HF group 53/110(48.18%)vs LF group 41/110(37.27%)in Week 8(P=0.102)and HF group 46/110(41.82%)vs LF group 45/110(40.91%)in Week 12(P=0.891)and the HF acupuncture and LF acupuncture were nearly equal in the 8-week abstinence rate.In addition,both HF and LF acupuncture significantly reduced Fagerstr?m test for nicotine dependence scale(FTND)scores(P<0.05),Minnesota nicotine withdrawal scale(MNWS)scores(P<0.05),and Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges scale(QSU-Brief)scores(P<0.05),but HF acupuncture showed some superiority over LF acupuncture in relieving patients'smoking cravings(P<0.05).CONCLUSIONS:The study initially showed that both high-frequency acupuncture and low-frequency acupuncture treatment were safe and effective on smoking cessation for 8 weeks,but high-frequency acupuncture was advantageous in reducing smoking cravings.More accurate acupuncture frequency needs to be validated through larger clinical studies to optimize acupuncture smoking cessation programs.
文摘Sham acupuncture,as a control intervention in acupuncture studies,has been widely conducted to eval-uate the specific effect of acupuncture.However,there was no relevant particular reporting guideline,so the reporting quality of sham acupuncture was low,which could hinder the precise understanding and interpretation of details and implementation background of sham acupuncture by researchers.In order to standardize the reporting of sham acupuncture and improve its quality,SHam Acupuncture REporting guidelines and a checklist in clinical trials(SHARE)was developed by a research team from Beijing Univer-sity of Chinese Medicine.The SAHRE standardizes the reporting of sham acupuncture from 10 categories,including brief name,rationales,details of sham acupuncture,treatment regimen of sham acupuncture,the information informed or explained to patients,practitioner information,modifications of protocol,communication between practitioner and patient,practitioner adherence and blinding.This article elab-orates the development process and key content of SHARE in order to facilitate its application by re-searchers.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82174524.
文摘Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)is a persistent gastrointestinal ailment driven by a range of immunological and pathophysiological factors,and often exposes patients to persistent pain and a greater risk of tumor development.In clinical settings,sulfasalazine is among the most common treatments used to manage IBD,but such treatment can result in a range of side effects in addition to leading to relatively poor efficacy.In certain refractory cases,patients must undergo surgical resection of affected tissues,underscoring the need to devise safer and more efficacious forms of alternative treatment.Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)have recently been shown to exhibit been shown to exhibit robust immunomodulatory activity and potential for differentiation such that they may be an effective tool for treating IBD.Acupuncture has also shown promise as an efficacious treatment option for IBD,performing better than drug-based treatments in certain clinical trials.Acupuncture is capable of enhancing endogenous MSC proliferation and homing,enabling these cells to more effectively migrate toward target lesion sites and to promote tissue repair.In light of these findings,this review was formulated to survey the potential therapeutic advantages of combining MSCs and acupuncture when attempting to treat IBD.
基金Supported by Traditional Chinese medicine foundation of Zhejiang province:Clinical Study on the Correlation Between Tourette Syndrome and Anatomical Changes in the Atlantoaxial Joint(2010ZB162)Medical Health Science and Technology Project of Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission:Study on Protein Fingerprinting of Tourette Syndrome(2011KYB142)+1 种基金Renowned Traditional Chinese Medicine Expert Inheritance Studio Construction Project of Zhejiang province(No.GZS2020049)Key Disciplines of Traditional Chinese Medicine Foundation of Zhejiang Province(2012-XK-D20)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To explore the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone-setting therapy for the treatment of Tourette syndrome.METHODS:We randomly divided 600 patients at a ratio of 1∶1∶1 into three groups:group A(acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone setting therapy group),group B(acupuncture group),and group C(tiapride group).After two months of treatment,the Yale global tic severity scale(YGTSS)score reduction,improvement in social function impairment,clinical efficacy,and long-term efficacy in the three groups were compared.RESULTS:After treatment,in the analysis of YGTSS score reduction,social function impairment improvement,the clinical control rate,and long-term efficacy,the results were all Group A>Group B>Group C,with a statistically significant difference(P<0.05).However,the total clinical efficacy of treatment in group A(94.9%)was not significantly different from that in group B(91.8%).Adverse reactions did not occur in groups A and B,and several adverse reactions occurred in 29%(n=58)of the group C patients.CONCLUSION:Compared with traditional drug therapy,acupuncture combined with atlantoaxial joint bone setting therapy has better clinical and long-term efficacy.This treatment strategy can improve the social function of children and prevent adverse reactions to drugs.
文摘BACKGROUND Laparoscopic surgery has emerged as the preferred treatment for acute appendicitis,a common acute abdominal condition.Despite surgical advances,postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction and delayed recovery continue to negatively impact rehabilitation outcomes and patient quality of life.Laser acupuncture represents a promising emerging complementary therapy with potential benefits for promoting functional recovery.AIM To evaluate the clinical efficacy of laser acupuncture in enhancing gastrointestinal function recovery following laparoscopic appendectomy and to investigate its potential applications in postoperative rehabilitation.METHODS This retrospective controlled clinical study selected 120 acute appendicitis patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy from January 2022 to December 2023 at a tertiary hospital.Patients were randomly divided into two groups:Routine treatment group(n=60)and laser acupuncture intervention group(n=60).There were no significant statistical differences in baseline characteristics(age,gender,body mass index,appendicitis severity)between the two groups.The routine treatment group received standard postoperative care,while the laser acupuncture intervention group received additional laser acupuncture treatment on top of standard care.Key observation indicators included time to first exhaust,time to first bowel movement,time to gastrointestinal function recovery,and postoperative complication rates.RESULTS Patients in the laser acupuncture intervention group showed significantly faster gastrointestinal function recovery compared to the routine treatment group.Specifically,time to first exhaust was significantly shortened(intervention group:12.5±2.3 hours vs control group:18.7±3.1 hours,P<0.05),time to first bowel movement was earlier(intervention group:36.4±4.6 hours vs control group:48.2±5.7 hours,P<0.05),postoperative complication rate was significantly reduced(intervention group:8.3%vs control group:20.0%,P<0.05),postoperative pain score was significantly lower(intervention group:3.2±1.1 vs control group:4.7±1.5,P<0.05),and intestinal motility recovery was faster and more effective.CONCLUSION Laser acupuncture,as an auxiliary treatment method,can significantly promote gastrointestinal function recovery in patients after laparoscopic appendectomy,reduce complications,and improve postoperative comfort.This technique has advantages such as minimal invasiveness,rapid recovery,and few side effects,making it worthy of further clinical promotion and application.
基金Supported by Special Funds for Basic Scientific Research of Central Public Welfare Research Institutes:201814006。
文摘Objective:This study aimed to explore the clinical effect of acupuncture therapy for menstruation regu-lation and pregnancy promotion on thin endometrium in the real world.Design:This study is a single-center pragmatic randomized controlled trial blinded to the statisticians.Using the“blockrand”software package,based on the age(≥35,<35),37 patients were randomized into an intervention group(19 cases)and a control group(18 cases).After reassignment regarding patient preference,21 patients were included in the intervention group and 16 in the control group.Setting:The trial was executed in the Specialty Outpatient Clinic,Acupuncture-Moxibustion Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences,from March 1,2019,to September 30,2020.Participants:The study included 37 patients with thin endometrium and without previous acupuncture treatment.Intervention:The intervention group was administered acupuncture for menstruation regulation and pregnancy promotion and a small-dose of progynova(2 mg daily),while the control group was adminis-tered a large-dose of progynova(4 mg daily).Interventions started from Day 5 of menstruation until the end of ovulation under B-ultrasound monitoring.The intervention lasted for three menstrual cycles.Measurements:Primary outcomes were changes in endometrial thickness between baseline and after intervention completion and the difference between the two groups after intervention.The secondary outcomes were endometrial and subendometrial blood flow,serum estradiol levels,menstrual conditions,and adverse reactions.Results:(1)Comparison of each indicator before and after intervention completion in the two groups:in the intervention group,the differences were significant in endometrial thickness,menstrual score,estra-diol(E2)level in ovulatory period,the pulsatility index(PI)and resistance index(RI)of uterine artery,the ratio of peak systolic velocity to end-diastolic velocity(S/D),the endometrial vascular index(VI),flow index(FI),and vascular flow index(VFI)and volume(P<0.01).In the control group,significant changes were observed in endometrial thickness,menstrual score,and E2 before and after the interven-tion(P<0.05),and no differences were observed in uterine artery PI,RI,S/D and endometrial VI,FI,VFI,and volume(P>0.05).Compared with the control group,the intervention group showed significant differences in endometrial thickness,menstrual score,E2,uterine artery PI,RI,S/D,and endometrial VI,FI,VFI,and volume after intervention(P<0.01).No adverse reactions were reported in the intervention group.In contrast,the control group had two cases of nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort after med-ication,eight cases of breast distention during medication,and one case of breast nodules enlarged by 1 cm after trial completion.
基金supported by grants from the Shanghai Science and Technology Commission(No.21ZR1461000)Shanghai Municipal Health Commission(No.ZY[2021–2023]−0204).
文摘Objective The present study evaluated the effects of deep acupuncture at Weizhong acupoint(BL40)on bladder function and brain activity in a rat model of overactive bladder(OAB),and investigated the possible mechanisms around the acupuncture area that initiate the effects of acupuncture.Methods Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups,comprising a control group,model group,group treated with deep acupuncture at BL40,group treated with shallow acupuncture at BL40,group treated with acupuncture at non-acupoint next to BL40,and group treated with acupuncture at Xuanzhong(GB39).Urodynamic evaluation was used to observe the urination,and functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to observe the brain activation.The mechanism of acupuncture at BL40 in regulating bladder function was explored by toluidine blue staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,and the mechanism was verified by stabilizing mast cells(MCs)or blocking tibial nerve.Results Deep acupuncture at BL40 significantly increased the intercontraction interval in OAB rats and enhanced the mean amplitude of low frequency fluctuation of primary motor cortex(M1),periaquaductal gray matter(PAG),and pontine micturition center(PMC).It also increased the zero-lag functional connectivity between M1 and PAG and between PAG and PMC.Shallow acupuncture at BL40 and acupuncture at non-acupoint or GB39 had no effect on these indexes.Further studies suggested that deep acupuncture at BL40 increased the number and degranulation rate of MCs as well as the contents of 5-hydroxytryptamine,substance P,and histamine in the tissues around BL40.Blocking the tibial nerve by lidocaine injection or inhibiting MC degranulation by sodium cromoglycate injection obstructed the effects of acupuncture on restoring urinary function and modulating brain activation in OAB rats.Conclusion Deep acupuncture at BL40 may be more effective for inhibiting OAB by promoting degranulation of MCs around the acupoint and stimulating tibial nerve,thereby regulating the activation of the brain area that controls the lower urinary tract.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China:Exploration of Key Factors and Mechanisms of Modulating Motor Function Reconstruction After Cerebral Infarction Through Multimodal Brain Functional Connectivity Perspective in Procedural Acupoint Electrical Stimulation Research(No.82374601)the Jointly Guided Program of Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province:Quantitative Study on the Role of Scalp Acupuncture in the Motor Area in Promoting Motor Function Reconstruction after Stroke(No.LH2019H113)+1 种基金the Innovation Team Construction Project of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine:Construction of a Doctoral Research and Innovation Team in Acupuncture Science(No.2017sit01)the Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Project of Heilongjiang Province:Clinical Study on the Promotion of Upper Limb Motor Function Reconstruction in Post-Stroke Patients Using Optimal Limb Positioning with Electroacupuncture(No.ZHY2022-171)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy of electroacupuncture(EA)at scalp motor area for treating post-stroke wrist dyskinesia and its influence on the function of wrist movement-related agonistic muscles.METHODS:A randomized,single-blind,controlled clinical trial was conducted.Sixty-six patients undergoing post-stroke wrist dyskinesia were enrolled and randomized 1:1 to EA or control group.Patients in the control group received manual acupuncture in the scalp motor area(MS 6)on the lesion side.The same acupoint was selected to accept EA stimulation in the EA group.All patients were treated six times a week for three weeks.The primary outcome was the Chinese Stroke Scale(CSS)score.The secondary outcomes included upper limb-related Barthel Index(BI)score,active range of motion(AROM)of the wrist joint,and root mean square(RMS)of the four agonistic muscles associated with wrist motion on the hemiplegic side of patients,i.e.,the extensor carpi radialis longus(ECRL),extensor digitorum(ED),flexor carpi radialis(FCR)and flexor carpi ulnaris(FCU).The above indicators were measured before and after three weeks of treatment.RESULTS:After 3-week treatment,the CSS score and AROM of wrist dorsiflexion of the EA group were better than those in the control group(P=0.038,P=0.047).The differences between the two groups of BI scores and AROM of wrist flexion were not significant(P>0.05).All RMS of the EA group were higher than those in the control group(ECRL:P=0.047,ED:P=0.048,FCR:P=0.049,FCU:P=0.047).The total effective rate in the EA group was 87.50%(28/32),which was higher than that in the control group(77.42%,24/31,P=0.048).CONCLUSION:EA stimulation of the scalp motor area can promote the recovery of the strength and function of the agonistic muscles related to wrist movement and effectively improve post-stroke wrist dyskinesia.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2019YFC1712100)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82105017)。
文摘Objective:The occurrence and development of atrial fibrillation(AF)are influenced by the autonomic nervous system and inflammation.Acupuncture is an effective treatment for AF.This study explored the protective effects of acupuncture in a rat model of paroxysmal AF and investigated its mechanisms.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats(n=130)were randomly divided into blank control(Con),sham operation(Sham),AF,and acupuncture treatment(Acu)groups.A paroxysmal AF model was established by rapid atrial pacing through the jugular vein.Rats in the Acu group were immobilized to receive acupuncture treatment at Neiguan acupoint(PC6)for 20 min daily for seven days.The other groups were immobilized for the same duration over the treatment period but did not receive acupuncture.The AF induction rate,AF duration,cardiac electrophysiological parameters,and heart rate variability were evaluated by monitoring surface electrocardiogram and vagus nerve discharge signals.After the intervention,the rats were euthanized,and atrial morphology was assessed using haematoxylin and eosin staining.The expression of macrophage F4/80 antigen(F4/80)and cluster of differentiation(CD)86 in atrial myocardial tissue was detected using immunohistochemistry,immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.The expression levels or contents of interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,tumor necrosis factor-a(TNF-a),a7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor(a7nAChR),phosphorylated Janus kinase 2(p-JAK2),and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(p-STAT3)in atrial myocardial tissue were detected using Western blotting,reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction,or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The role of a7nAChR in acupuncture treatment was verified by intraperitoneal injection of the a7nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine(MLA).Results:Compared with the AF group,acupuncture significantly reduced AF duration and induction rate,improved cardiac electrophysiology by enhancing vagus nerve activity and regulating autonomic balance.It also decreased the pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage proportion,alleviating myocardial injury and infiltration.MLA weakened acupuncture's electrophysiological improvement and anti-inflammatory effect.Results suggest that acupuncture triggers the a7nAChR-JAK2/STAT3 pathway and exerts cardioprotection via neuroimmune regulation.Conclusion:Acupuncture significantly reduced the AF induction rate,shortened AF duration,improved cardiac electrophysiological parameters,enhanced vagus nerve activity,and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and inflammatory factors in rats with paroxysmal AF.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82104986 and 82274643)Shanghai“Rising Stars of Medical Talents”Youth Development Program(No.SHWSRS[2023]_062)from Shanghai Municipal Health Commission。
文摘Objective:Comorbid pain and depression are common but remain difficult to treat.Electroacupuncture(EA)can effectively improve symptoms of depression and relieve pain,but its neural mechanism remains unclear.Therefore,we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging(rs-fMRI)to detect cerebral changes after initiating a mouse pain model via constriction of the infraorbital nerve(CION)and then treating these animals with EA.Methods:Forty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into 4 groups:control,CION model,EA,and sham acupuncture(without needle insertion).EA was performed on the acupoints Baihui(GV20)and Zusanli(ST36)for 20 min,once a day for 10 consecutive days.The mechanical withdrawal threshold was tested3 days after the surgery and every 3 days after the intervention.The depressive behavior was evaluated with the tail suspension test,open-field test,elevated plus maze(EPM),sucrose preference test,and marble burying test.The rs-fMRI was used to detect the cerebral changes of the functional connectivity(FC)in the mice following EA treatment.Results:Compared with the CION group,the mechanical withdrawal threshold increased in the EA group at the end of the intervention(P<0.05);the immobility time in tail suspension test decreased(P<0.05);and the times of the open arm entry and the open arm time in the EPM increased(both P<0.001).There was no difference in the sucrose preference or marble burying tests(both P>0.05).The fMRI results showed that EA treatment downregulated the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations and regional homogeneity values,while these indicators were elevated in brain regions including the amygdala,hippocampus and cerebral cortex in the CION model for comorbid pain and depression.Selecting the amygdala as the seed region,we found that the FC was higher in the CION group than in the control group.Meanwhile,EA treatment was able to decrease the FC between the amygdala and other brain regions including the caudate putamen,thalamus,and parts of the cerebral cortex.Conclusion:EA can downregulate the abnormal activation of neurons in the amygdala and improve its FC with other brain regions,thus exerting analgesic and antidepressant effects.Please cite this article as:Yin X,Zeng XL,Lin JJ,Xu WQ,Cui KY,Guo XT,Li W,Xu SF.Brain functional changes following electroacupuncture in a mouse model of comorbid pain and depression:A restingstate functional magnetic resonance imaging study.
基金supported by the Key Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82130122)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81973949).
文摘Pain is a subjective and unpleasant sensation that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals.Chronic pain represents one of the most challenging public health issues,and ensuring effective pain management is a fundamental right of individuals and a sacred duty of healthcare providers.Cannabis,one of the earliest recognized medicinal plants,contains cannabinoids,which are non-opioid substances that modulate nociceptive responses.Electroacupuncture(EA),characterized by its low-risk and well-tolerated nature,is pivotal in pain management.The endocannabinoid system consists of endocannabinoids,cannabinoid receptors,and enzymes involved in endocannabinoid synthesis,degradation,and transport.Recently,the role of the endocannabinoid system in pain development and EA analgesia has attracted considerable research attention.Studies have highlighted the role of the endocannabinoid system in various types of pain,including inflammatory pain,neuropathic pain,and cancer-related pain,as well as in EA analgesia.This study aims to review the mechanisms of endocannabinoid system involvement in pain modulation and EA analgesia to provide insights to inform clinical approaches to pain management.
基金Supported by Beijing Municipal Commission of Education,No.SM202214075001。
文摘BACKGROUND Adult-onset Still's disease(AOSD)is a rare autoinflammatory disease charac-terized by nonspecific symptoms such as fever,rash,sore throat and arthralgia.This paper reports a clinical case of AOSD successfully treated with Bo’s abdo-minal acupuncture(BAA).CASE SUMMARY We report a 20-year-old man who suffered from cold exposure,presenting with high fever,rash,sore throat,arthralgia,and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate,leukocytosis with neutrophilic predominance,elevated ferritin,elevated C-reactive protein,and negative rheumatoid factors.He was diagnosed with AOSD based on the Yamaguchi criteria.After treatment with traditional Chinese medi-cine(TCM)decoction and prednisone acetate tablets,there was some alleviation of sore throat,joint and muscle pain,and fever,but he still had persistent low-grade fever,rash,sore throat and arthralgia.He went to the TCM acupuncture outpatient department to receive BAA.Abdominal acupoints Zhongwan(CV12),Xiawan(CV10),0.5 cm below Xiawan(CV10),Qihai(CV6),Guanyuan(CV4),bilateral Qixue(KI13),bilateral Huaroumen(ST24),bilateral Shangfengshidian(AB1)and bilateral Daheng(SP15)were selected.After 3 months treatment,all symptoms disappeared,and the laboratory examination returned to normal levels.He did not take glucocorticoids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs afterwards,and no relapse was observed during the 3-year follow-up period.CONCLUSION BAA can be used as a complementary medical approach for treatment of AOSD.
基金Supported by The National Natural Science Foundation of China Young Scientists Fund:82004480。
文摘Objective:This study aimed to observe the effects of xiusanzhen acupuncture(olfactory three-needling therapy)on the behavior,hippocampal histopathology and microglial(MG)activation of rats with vascular dementia(VD),and to assess the role of the trigeminal nerve.Methods:Sprague-Dawley(SD)rats were randomly assigned to the sham-operation,model,xiusanzhen,and trigeminal neurotomy groups(n=15 per group).Bilateral common carotid artery ligation was performed to prepare the VD models.Models of trigeminal neurotomy were prepared through the excision of the frontal nerve and infraorbital nerve.Xiusanzhen acupuncture was delivered via electric stimulation.The acupoints selected were bilateral“Yingxiang(LI20)”and“Yintang(EX-HN3)”,and the stimulation parameters were as follows:disperse-dense wave,at a frequency of 2/15HZ and intensity of 1 mA.The course of treatment was once daily,with one course lasting five days,followed by an interval of two days,yielding a total of four courses.Behavioral changes were detected using the Morris water maze,changes in histomorphology in the hippocampal CA1 region were determined with hematoxylin and eosin(HE)staining,and MG activation in the hippocampal CA1 region was detected using immunofluorescence.Results:The escape latency:From days 3 to 5,the escape latency was higher in the model group compared to the sham-operation group(P<0.05),but was lower in the xiusanzhen group compared to the model and trigeminal neurotomy groups(P<0.05).The frequency for platform crossing and swimming distance:both were reduced in the model group compared to the sham-operation group(P<0.01);and were elevated in the xiusanzhen group compared to the model group and trigeminal neurotomy group(P<0.01).Hippocampal pathomorphological changes:In the sham-operation group,the morphological structure and nucleoli were well-defined;in the model group and the trigeminal neurotomy group,cell numbers were reduced and karyopyknosis increased;while in the xiusanzhen group,the cell numbers were elevated and karyopyknosis was reduced compared with the model group.MG:the positive rate was higher in the model group compared to the sham-operation group(P<0.05);lower in the xiusanzhen group compared to the model group(P<0.05);and higher in the trigeminal neurotomy group compared to the xiusanzhen group(P<0.05).Conclusion:Xiusanzhen acupuncture attenuates cognitive impairment in VD rats,inhibits MG activation,and reduces hippocampal tissue damage.Its effects depend on the structural integrity of the trigeminal nerve.
