Protective Effect and Mechanism of Kuntai Capsule on Angiotensin II -Induced Hypertension in Ovariectomized Rats / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the protective effect and mechanism of Kuntai (KT) Capsule on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertension in ovariectomized (OVX) rats.@*METHODS@#Fifty-four rats were randomly divided into 6 groups according to a random number table, 9 in each group: control, OVX sham+Ang II, OVX, OVX+Ang II, OVX+Ang II +E2, and OVX+Ang II +KT. OVX rats model was constructed by retroperitoneal bilateral ovariectomy. After 4 weeks of pretreatment with KT Capsule [0.8 g/(kg·d) and 17- β -estradiol (E2, 1.2 mg/(kg·d)] respectively, Ang II was injected into a micro-osmotic pump with a syringe to establish a hypertensive rat model. Blood pressure of rat tail artery was measured in a wake state of rats using a non-invasive sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure changes were compared between the intervention groups (OVX+Ang II +KT, OVX+Ang II +E2) and the negative control group (OVX+Ang II). Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were detected respectively. The expressions of oxidative stress-related protein superoxide dismutase2 (SOD2) and anti-thioredoxin (TRX), autophagy marker protein [beclin1, light chain (LC) 3 II/I ratio and autophagy canonical pathway protein phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/serine/threonine kinase (AKT)-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)] were evaluated by Western blotting.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the OVX+Ang II group, the systolic blood pressure of OVX+Ang II +KT group was significantly lowered (P<0.05) but not the diastolic blood pressure. Besides, SOD2 and TRX protein levels in mycardial tissues were significantly reduced in the OVX+Ang II +KT group compared with the OVX+Ang II group (P<0.05). Oxidative stress serum markers MDA and SOD were down- and up-regulated in the OVX+Ang II +KT group, respectively (P<0.05). Compared with OVX+Ang II group, the levels of cardiac proteins beclin-1 and LC3II/LC3 I in OVX+Ang II +KT group were also up-regulated (P<0.05), and the expression levels of p-PI3K, p-AKT and mTOR protein were down-regulated (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#KT could protect blood pressure of Ang II-induced OVX rats by inhibiting oxidative stress and up-regulating protective autophagy.

Effect of superfine powder and aqueous extract of Polygonati Rhizoma on rats with natural perimenopausal syndrome / 中国中药杂志

This study aims to examine the effect of superfine powder and aqueous extract of Polygonati Rhizomaon on natural perimenopausal syndrome in rats and explore the underlying mechanism. To be specific, a total of 60 female SD rats(14-15 months old) with estrous cycle disorder were screened by the vaginal smear and randomized into model control group, β-estradiol 3-benzoate group(0.1 mg·kg~(-1)), superfine powder of Polygonati Rhizoma group(0.25, 0.5 g·kg~(-1)) and aqueous extract of Polygonati Rhizoma group(0.25, 0.5 g·kg~(-1)), and another 10 female SD rats(14-15 months old) were selected as the youth control group. The administration lasted 6 weeks. Then the perimenopausal syndrome-related indexes such as body temperature, microcirculatory blood flow of face and ear, vertigo period, salivary secretion, grip force, and bone strength were determined and open field test was conducted. The immune system-related indexes such as the wet weight and index of thymus and spleen, percentage of T lymphocytes and subgroups in peripheral blood, and hematological indexes were measured. In addition, the ovary-related indexes such as estrous cycle, the wet weight and index of uterus and ovary, ovarian tissue morphology, and cell apoptosis were determined. Moreover, hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis(HPO)-related indexes such as serum sex hormone levels, cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1(CYP11A1), cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1(CYP19A1), and cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A member 1(P450 17A1) in ovarian tissue were measured. The results showed that the superfine powder and aqueous extract of Polygonati Rhizoma significantly decreased body temperature(anal, facial and dorsal temperature), microcirculatory blood flow in the ear, and vertigo period, increased salivary secretion, grip force, bone strength, total distance and total speed in the open field test, wet weight and index of thymus and spleen, lymphocyte ratio, CD3~+ level, and CD4~+/CD8~+ ratio, reduced neutrophil number and ratio, estrous cycle disorder ratio, and number of ovarian apoptotic cells, raised wet weight and index of uterus, wet weight of ovary, levels of inhibin B(INHB), estradiol(E_2), anti-müllerian hormone(AMH), and ovarian CYP11A1 and CYP19A1, decreased follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) and luteinizing hormone(LH) content, and improved ovarian tissue morphology. It is suggested that the superfine powder and aqueous extract of Polygonati Rhizoma can improve the symptoms associated with natural perimenopausal syndrome in rats and enhance ovarian function and immune function. The mechanism is that they regulate HPO axis function by increasing estrogen synthesis.

Jianpi Peiyuan acupoint thread embedding therapy for perimenopausal obesity: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical efficacy and safety of Jianpi Peiyuan acupoint thread embedding therapy on perimenopausal obesity (PMO).@*METHODS@#Ninety-six patients of PMO were randomly divided into an observation group (48 cases) and a control group (48 cases). The control group received health education and lifestyle intervention. On the basis of the treatment in the control group, the observation group was treated with acupoint thread embedding at the main acupoints of Shangwan (CV 13), Zhongwan (CV 12), Xiawan (CV 10), Yinlingquan (SP 9) and Fenglong (ST 40), etc. as well as the supplementary acupoints in accordance with the syndrome differentiation, once every 2 weeks for 8 weeks (4 times in total). The indexes of obesity (body mass index [BMI], waist circumference, hip circumference and body mass), modified Kupperman score, insomnia severity index (ISI) score, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) score, and self-rating depression scale (SDS) score of the two groups were observed before and after treatment, and the safety was evaluated.@*RESULTS@#After treatment, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference and body mass in the two groups were lower than before treatment (P<0.05), and those in the observation group were lower than the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, Kupperman, ISI and SAS scores in the observation group were lower than before treatment (P<0.05), and ISI score in the control group was lower than before treatment (P<0.05). Kupperman, ISI and SAS scores in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in SDS between the two groups or within groups (P>0.05). No serious adverse reactions occurred during the experiment.@*CONCLUSION@#Jianpi Peiyuan acupoint thread embedding therapy can reduce the degree of obesity in PMO patients, and improve patients' the perimenopausal symptoms, insomnia and anxiety, with good safety.

Bushen Anshen acupuncture for perimenopausal insomnia of kidney-yin deficiency: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical efficacy of Bushen Anshen acupuncture (acupuncture for tonifying kidney and calming spirit ) in treating perimenopausal insomnia (PMI) of kidney-yin deficiency.@*METHODS@#A total of 72 patients with PMI of kidney-yin deficiency were randomized into an observation group (36 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a control group (36 cases, 1 case dropped off). Acupuncture was applied at Baihui (GV 20) and bilateral Shenshu (BL 23), Taixi (KI 3), Anmian (Extra) in the observation group, while sham acupuncture of shallow needling at non-acupoints was applied in the control group. The treatment was required once every other day, 3 times a week for 10 times in the two groups. Before and after treatment, Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) was used to evaluate the subjective sleep quality, and polysomnography (PSG) was used to monitor the objective sleep quality in the two groups.@*RESULTS@#After treatment, the scores of sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, hypnotic, daytime dysfunction and total score of PSQI were decreased compared with those before treatment in the observation group (P<0.01), the scores of sleep duration, sleep efficiency and total score of PSQI were decreased compared with those before treatment in the control group (P<0.05); the scores of sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep efficiency, hypnotic and total score of PSQI in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the sleep time was prolonged, the sleep efficiency was improved, the sleep latency and the awake time after falling asleep were shortened, the arousal awake index was reduced (P<0.01) when PSG indexes were monitored, and the percentage of non-rapid eye movement sleep period 1 (N1%) was decreased while the percentage of non-rapid eye movement sleep period 3 (N3%) was increased (P<0.05) compared with those before treatment in the observation group; there was no statistical difference in the PSG indexes compared with those before treatment in the control group (P>0.05). After treatment, compared with the control group, the sleep time was prolonged, the sleep efficiency was improved, the sleep latency and the awake time after falling asleep were shortened, the arousal awake index and N1% were decreased in the observation group (P<0.01).@*CONCLUSION@#Bushen Anshen acupuncture can effectively improve the subjective and objective sleep quality in PMI patients of kidney-yin deficiency.

Differences in COVID-19 mortality in males and females: Is estrogen hormone attributing to sex differences?

Objectives: Globally, the case fatality ratio is more in males versus females. Some studies have suggested estrogen hormone decreases susceptibility to SARS CoV-2. We have analyzed the observed sex differences in COVID-19 behavior in males and females and the clinical profiles of females of different age groups of COVID-19 patients and discussed their symptoms, laboratory evaluations, and associated comorbidities. Material and Methods: The patients were tested for COVID-19 through real-time RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) assay. The data obtained were studied for the epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory characteristics from their medical records. Results: The mortality rate in females was 12.33% (36/292) whereas mortality in males was 19.63% (84/428). In between group analysis, 8.7% (14/161) of females died in the <40 years age group versus 16.8% (22/131) in more than 40 years age group whereas in males, the mortality was 13.7% (21/153) in <40 years versus 22.9%(63/275). The mortality rate in women older than 40 years was greater than mortality in younger females emphasizing the protection provided by estrogen hormone in them. The proportion of patients who expired due to COVID-19 significantly differs by age cutoff of 40 years, X2 (1, n = 428). The difference is statistically significant at P < 0.05. Males more than 40 years are more likely to expire. Conclusion: Sex-related differences in coronavirus pandemic have been found pointing toward the protective role of estrogen hormone and other differences in immunological behavior in males and females. Downregulation of ACE2 expression, thereby reducing viral entry, might also be contributory to decreasing mortality in females.

Thyroid profile in perimenopausal women: A study to rule out hypothyroidism in the subclinical stage and its relationship to cholesterol levels

Background: One of the most frequent problems affecting perimenopausal women is thyroid dysfunction, symptoms of which might be so subtle that they go unrecognized for a long time. In older women, subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is frequent. A significant percentage of individuals are at risk of developing primary hypothyroidism as a result of their SCH. Aim and Objectives: The goal of this study is to know the incidence of thyroid dysfunction and its clinical manifestations, to determine thyroid profile the incidence of SCH, and its relation with the cholesterol levels in perimenopausal women in patients who visit gynecology outpatient department. Materials and Methods: The present study is a descriptive cross-sectional research undertaken in the department of the research comprised 100 women between the ages of 40 and 55 Patients were assessed using a complete history, clinical examination, and laboratory tests such as ELISA was used to test thyroid function in the serum of all patients diagnosed with SCH and also assessed serum cholesterol in patients with SCH. Results: There were 100 patients in the present study and all were women were between the ages of 40 and 55. Menorrhagia was the most common menstrual disorder seen in the study group, with 56% of patients experiencing it. 32% of patients developed oligomenorrhea, which is one of the most common perimenopausal symptoms. Menstrual irregularities (88%) and weight increase were common symptoms in thyroid insufficiency individuals. (65%), irritation and mood changes (74%) Anxiety and sadness (61%) are the most common symptoms, followed by loss of employment. Sexual libido (5%) Subjects with normal free t3 and t4 but increased serum thyroid-stimulating hormone were classified as SCH. 20 of the patients had SCH, 4 had overt hypothyroidism, and the other 76 were euthyroid. Seventy-five percent of the patients with SCH had hypercholesterolemia when they were diagnosed. Conclusion: We propose that perimenopausal women with or without symptoms be routinely screened based on the findings of this study. Early diagnosis and treatment of these issues will aid in lowering morbidity and preventing subsequent consequences.

Research progress on non-drug intervention for patients with perimenopausal depression / 四川精神卫生

This article gives a review on domestic and foreign researches on the non-drug intervention for patients with perimenopausal depression published from 2012 to 2022， so as to provide a reference for clinical treatment and nursing. Currently， pharmacotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for perimenopausal depression， while many existing problems remain to be solved such as the variation in treatment effect and the difficulty in maintaining emotional stability. however，high safety and relatively low cost are the characteristics of non-drug intervention， so this article expounds on the non-drug intervention measures for perimenopausal depression， such as music therapy， dietary therapy， exercise therapy， acupuncture therapy and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation （rTMS）.

Kupperman index-based analysis of factors influencing perimenopausal symptoms and establishment of risk nomogram in female petrochemical workers / 环境与职业医学

Background Women face more reproductive health problems in their whole life cycle. Occupational exposure to harmful factors in the petrochemical industry may have a synergistic effect on women’s existing health problems. Objective To analyze the influencing factors of perimenopausal syndrome (PMS) in female workers in petrochemical industry, and establish a nomogram model of the risk of PMS in female workers, so as to provide a easy and quick health monitoring and evaluation method for female workers. Methods A total of 2653 perimenopausal female workers aged 45-55 years old were selected from a petrochemical enterprise. A questionnaire survey was conducted to collect information on demographic characteristics, occupational characteristics, psychological status, and reproductive health information. The prevalence of PMS of female workers was evaluated by the Kupperman Index Scale, the physical fatigue and mental fatigue were evaluated by the Fatigue Scale. A linear graph prediction model was established by multiple logistic regression. A nomogram was presented and C-index was used to verify the differentiation of the model. Then Bootstrap method was used for internal validation. Results Among the 2653 female worker, a total of 1306 cases (49.2%) presented PMS with a Kupperman score ≥7. The main symptoms were fatigue (79.95%), irritability (71.32%), and insomnia (66.79%). Significant differences in PMS prevalence were found among female workers of different age, body mass index, and working posture groups (P < 0.05). The participants with alcohol drinking, maternal premature or late menopause, hypertension, lack of physical exercise, heavy lifting, sick leave in the last 6 months, combined occupational exposures to dust, chemicals, noise [> 80 dB(A)], or electromagnetic field, and not wearing protective masks, gloves or protective earplugs reported higher prevalence rates of PMS (P < 0.05). The prevalence rate of PMS in female workers with sleep duration ≤ 6 h was higher than that with > 6 h (P < 0.05), and higher in female workers with physical and mental fatigue than in those without (P < 0.05). The results of logistic regression analysis showed that those with maternal premature or late menopause (OR=1.572, 95%CI: 1.320−1.872), hypertension (OR=1.579, 95%CI: 1.127−2.213), alcohol drinking (OR=1.286, 95%CI: 1.080−1.532), no physical exercise (OR=1.598, 95%CI: 1.330−1.920), sleep duration ≤ 6 h (OR=1.853, 95%CI: 1.518−2.263), sick leave in recent 6 months (OR=1.614, 95%CI: 1.226−2.123), physical fatigue (OR=2.384, 95%CI: 1.887−3.012), mental fatigue (OR=5.649, 95%CI: 4.382−7.283), combined exposure to occupational harmful factors (OR=1.329, 95%CI: 1.108−1.593), long-time sitting (OR=2.014, 95%CI: 1.271−3.190), and heavy lifting (OR=1.505, 95%CI: 1.178−1.923) showed a higher risk of reporting PMS (P<0.05). The C-index from the ROC curve of the nomogram model was 0.748 (95%CI: 0.729−0.766). The results of Bootstrap validation showed that the standard curve and the predicted curve almost overlapped, and the absolute error was 0.008, indicating that the model fitness was good. Conclusion PMS in female petrochemical workers may occur due to long-term exposures to multiple factors. The established nomogram model has good predictive ability and could be applied to monitor and evaluate female reproductive health in petroleum industry.

Acupuncture for perimenopausal early-wake insomnia: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical effect of acupuncture for perimenopausal early-wake insomnia.@*METHODS@#A total of 60 patients with perimenopausal early-wake insomnia were randomly divided into an observation group (30 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a control group (30 cases, 2 cases dropped off, 2 cases were removed). In the observation group, acupuncture was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Yintang (GV 24+), Anmian (Extra), Hegu (LI 4), Shenmen (HT 7), Taichong (LR 3), Taixi (KI 3), etc., once every other day, 3 times a week. In the control group, oryzanol tablets were taken orally, 20 mg each time, 3 times a day. Both groups were treated for 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, the sleep actigraphy (ACT) was used to measure the effective sleep time, sleep quality, wake-up time, wake-up frequency, each wake-up time, and the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) score and early-wake score were compared in the two groups, and the clinical effect was assessed.@*RESULTS@#After treatment, compared before treatment, the effective sleep time was prolonged and the sleep quality was improved (P<0.05), the wake-up time, each wake-up time were shortened and wake-up frequency was decreased (P<0.05), the PSQI score and early-wake score were decreased (P<0.05) in the observation group. After treatment, the wake-up frequency, PSQI score and early-wake score were decreased in the control group (P<0.05). The effective sleep time, sleep quality, wake-up time, wake-up frequency, each wake-up time, PSQI score and early-wake score after treatment in the observation group were superior to the control group (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 88.9% (24/27) in the observation group, which was higher than 38.5% (10/26) in the control group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture can increase the effective sleep time and improve sleep quality in patients with perimenopausal early-wake insomnia.

Effects of perimenopausal one-day outpatient multidisciplinary model on the cognition of women to menopause hormone therapy / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To evalu ate the effects of perimenopausal one-day outpatient multidisciplinary model on the cognition of women to menopause hormone therapy （MHT）. METHODS The perimenopausal one-day outpatient service opened by the Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University in 2017 was introduced ，which was participated by doctors ，pharmacists， nutritionists，music psychotherapists ，nurses and other multidisciplinary members to provide systematic ，all-round，humanistic and face-to-face group science popularization and education ，practical experience and Q&A for women in perimenopause or about to enter perimenopause （called“students”）. The students who participated in one-day outpatient service in 2020 were selected as the survey object ， and the questionnaire was CMEI2020KPYJ（ZAMM）00206] designed to analyze the understanding of perimenopausal syndrome，awareness rate of MHT ，willingness to use and concerns. RESULTS A total of 295 students completed the questionnaire. Compared with before participation ， after participated in one-day outpatient service ，the cognition level of the students were all improved significantly ，including perimenopausal age （96.61％ vs. 99.32％，P＝0.037），the importance of perimenopausal health care knowledge （91.19％ vs. 96.95％，P＜0.001），whether the perimenopausal syndrome needs treatment （88.47％ vs. 99.32％，P＜0.001），willingness to use MHT （70.59％ vs. 94.48％ ，P＜0.001），MHT treatment timing （60.50％ vs. 95.17％ ，P＜0.001），reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease （51.68％ vs. 96.55％ ，P＜0.001），delaying aging （69.75％ vs. 97.59％ ，P＜0.001），preventing osteoporosis（65.13％ vs. 97.59％），P＜0.001）；the medical staff were higher than the non-medical staff （P＜0.05）. Totally 90％ of the students said they had gained knowledge about the prevention and treatment of common diseases ，nutrition and guidance， psychological regulation guidance hormone therapy related knowledges and exercise methods ；the proportion of the students who were willing to use MHT for 1 to 5 years（31.09％ vs. 47.93％）increased significantly. The proportion of the students who concerned about the risk of thrombosis （60.24％ vs. 36.81％），weight gain （59.64％ vs. 14.84％）and life-long dependence （52.41％ vs. 18.13％）was significantly reduced ，but that of the students who concerned about cancer risk was not diminished. From 2017 to 2020，the utilization rate of MHT was increased from 2.22％ to 62.16％ in non-medical staff among the students. CONCLUSIONS The multidisciplinary model of perimenopausal one-day outpatient service can improve the awareness of MHT among perimenopausal women ，eliminate misunderstandings ，and increase the utilization rate of MHT.

Osteoporosis and risk factors in perimenopausal women / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo screen the risk factors of osteoporosis in perimenopausal women， and to provide direction for timely prevention and treatment. MethodsUsing multilevel stratified random sampling method， the perimenopausal women were investigated by questionnaire survey， and the determination of bone mineral density （BMD） and the levels of several important hormones. ResultsA total of 720 valid questionnaires were received. Among 720 perimenopausal women， 173 had osteoporosis and 547 had no osteoporosis. Univariate analysis of the influencing factors of osteoporosis showed that the levels of parathyroid hormone （PTH）， Estradiol （E2）， body mass index （BMI）， age， time of last period and age of menopause were significantly different among perimenopausal women in the prevalence of osteoporosis（χ2=4.23， 4.86， 16.06， 21.04， 10.52， 13.02； P<0.05）.Logistic regression analysis showed that the increase of PTH （OR=2.70， P<0.05）and menopause （OR=1.76， P<0.05） were the risk factors of osteoporosis . Higher BMI（OR=0.65， P<0.05）， higher personal monthly income（OR=0.72， P<0.05）， longer sunshine time（OR=0.69， P<0.05）， were the protective factors against osteoporosis. ConclusionThe increase of PTH levels and menopause are the risk factors for osteoporosis in women. Perimenopausal women should be monitored for bone mineral density and appropriate intervention. Necessary treatment measures should be taken for the patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Effect of attention and interpretation therapy on sleep dysfunction and quality of life in perimenopausal syndrome patients / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of attention and interpretation therapy on sleep dysfunction and quality of life in perimenopausal syndrome patients.Methods:From August 2018 to January 2020, a total of 76 patients with perimenopausal syndrome were divided into experimental group (38 cases) and control group (38 cases) according to the random number table method. Two groups recieved routine therapy and nursing care, on the basis of this, the experimental group was given attention and interpretation therapy for 10 weeks. Before intervention and after 10 weeks of intervention, the effects were assessed by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL), respectively.Results:There was no significant difference in the score of PSQI, MENQOL before intervention between the two groups ( P>0.05). After intervention, the sleep quality, sleep duration, sleep efficiency scores and total PSQI scores were 0.79±0.10, 1.48±0.23, 1.11±0.22, 9.70±0.59; in addition, the vasomotor symptoms, psychological symptoms, somatic symptoms and total MENQOL scores were 3.06±0.81, 2.06±0.81, 2.50±0.51, 2.63±0.39 in the experimental group, significanlty lower than those in the control group (1.03±0.22, 1.85±0.33, 1.25±0.28, 10.59±0.66, 3.69±0.95, 2.83±0.77, 2.92±0.94, 3.18±0.53), the differences were statistically significant ( t values were 2.306-6.021, P<0.05). Conclusions:Attention and interpretation therapy can effectively alliviate sleep dysfunction and improve quality of life of perimenopausal syndrome patients.

Acupuncture-moxibustion treatment by stages based on the theory of "transformation of / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the efficacy between acupuncture-moxibustion treatment by stages and femoston for premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).@*METHODS@#A total of 66 patients with POI were randomly divided into an observation group (33 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a control group (33 cases, 2 cases dropped off). The patients in the observation group, based on the theory of "transformation of @*RESULTS@#Compared before treatment, the serum levels of FSH and LH were decreased (@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture- moxibustion treatment by stages based on the theory of "transformation of

Research progress and thinking on the mechanism of acupuncture in treatment of perimenopausal syndrome / 中国针灸

The potential effect mechanism of acupuncture for perimenopausal syndrome is analyzed and summarized from five aspects, i.e. the influence on reproductive endocrine system, the regulation on nervous system, the improvement of immune function, the intervention on free radical metabolism and the regulation of adverse emotions. It is believed the mechanism research of acupuncture in the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome should be deepened in terms of acupoint specificity and the influence of acupoint compatibility based on the characteristics of acupuncture therapy itself. In clinic, the research on therapeuticmethods and treatment frequency should be enhanced.

Therapeutic effect of acupuncture combined with wheat-grain moxibustion on perimenopausal depression with kidney deficiency and liver depression / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the therapeutic effect of acupuncture combined with wheat-grain moxibustion and oral fluoxetine hydrochloride capsule on perimenopausal depression with kidney deficiency and liver depression.@*METHODS@#A total of 60 patients of perimenopausal depression with kidney deficiency and liver depression were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 30 cases in each one. Acupuncture combined with wheat-grain moxibustion were adopted in the observation group. Acupuncture was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Yintang (GV 29), Fengchi (GB 20), etc. for 30 min. Wheat-grain moxibustion was applied at Ganshu (BL 18), Shenshu (BL 23), Mingmen (GV 4) and Yongquan (KI 1), 3 moxa-cones for each acupoint. The treatment in the observation group was given once every 2 days, 3 times a week. Fluoxetine hydrochloride capsule was given orally in the control group, 20 mg each time, once a day. Treatment for 8 weeks was required in the both groups. The scores of Hamilton depression scale (HAMD) and modified Kupperman scale were observed in the both groups before and after treatment, and at 1, 3, 6-month follow-up. The therapeutic efficacy was evaluated after treatment.@*RESULTS@#Compared before treatment, the scores of HAMD and modified Kupperman scale after treatment and at each time point of follow-up were decreased in the both groups (@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture combined with wheat-grain moxibustion can effectively treat perimenopausal depression with kidney deficiency and liver depression, and have more stable and sustained therapeutic effect compared with oral fluoxetine hydrochloride capsule.

Underestimation of Cardiovascular Risk among Peri and PostMenopausal Women

@#Introduction Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women are at high risk to develop cardiovascular diseases, yet most of women in this group have inaccurate perception regarding their risk of getting the cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study is to determine accuracy of self-perception on cardiovascular risk and its associated factor among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women attending primary care clinic. Methods This study is a cross sectional study involving 292 peri and post- menopausal women who attended outpatient clinic in Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital from May to August 2015. A Bahasa Malaysia version of Perception of Risk of Heart Disease Scale was used to assess participants’ perception on their cardiovascular risk. The risk perception was assessed based on sociodemographic factor, clinical characteristics and actual cardiovascular risk based on the Framingham Risk Score 2008. Results A total of 265 patients responded. Mean age of the participants were 57.4 ± 7. 87. Five percent perceived themselves in moderate cardiovascular risk group, 81.9% inaccurately perceived their cardiovascular risk and 48.7% underestimate their risk. Diabetes mellitus (AOR 447.535, 95% CI 116.35,1721.40, p < 0.001), age (AOR 1.122 , 95% CI 1.05, 1.20, p= 0.001) and systolic blood pressure (AOR 1.043, 95% CI 1.01, 1.07, p < 0.004) were associated with underestimation of cardiovascular risk. (AOR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94, 0.99, p = 0.002). Conclusions A significant proportion of participants inaccurately perceived their cardiovascular risk and almost half underestimated their risk. More health education need to be done among this group of patients.

Overview of systematic reviews on Kuntai Capsules in treatment of perimenopausal syndrome / 中国中药杂志

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Kuntai Capsules in the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome. Systematic reviews on Kuntai Capsules in the treatment of perimenopausal syndrome were retrieved from Chinese and English databases from database establishment to August 31, 2020. AMSTER-2 scale, GRADE scale and ROBIS tools were used respectively to evaluate the methodological quality, evidence quality level and bias risk of the finally included systematic reviews. A total of 6 systematic reviews with 28 outcome indicators were included. The results of AMSTER-2 methodological quality assessment showed that one of the six systematic reviews was of low quality, and the other five were of extremely low quality. GRADE scale showed that 28 clinical outcome indicators were evaluated, three of which were intermediate-level ones, and the rest were low-level or very low-level ones. Two evidences of the three intermediate evidences were total efficiency, and the other intermediate evidence was Kupperman score. ROBIS bias risk assessment showed all the included studies were of high risk. The results showed that, Kuntai Capsules were effective in the treatment of perimenopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and sweating. The improvement of E_2 level was not as good as that in the menopause hormone therapy group, but the incidence of adverse reactions was lower than that in the menopause hormone therapy group. However, the quality of evidence needs to be improved due to the low quality of methodology and high risk of bias. It is suggested that systematic review and reasonable design should be carried out in the future, and attention should be paid to the registration of research schemes. In addition, the research reports shall be prepared according to PRISMA statement.

Clinical Efficacy on Shugan Bushen Huoxue Decoction in Treating Perimenopausal Perio Syndrome (Kidney Deficiency and Liver Depression and Blood Stasis Syndrome) / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy and mechanism of Shugan Bushen Huoxue decoction in the treatment of perimenopausal perio syndrome （PPS） with kidney deficiency， liver depression and blood stasis syndrome. Method:One hundred and twelve patients were randomly divided into control group and observation group according to random number table. Both groups took Remifemin orally， 1 tablet/time， by swallowing in the morning and evening. The patients in control group additionally took Fuke Yangrong capsules， 4 capsules/time， 3 times/day. The patients in observation group additionally took Shugan Bushen Huoxue decoction， 1 dose/day. The course of treatment was 12 weeks in both groups. Before and after treatment， scores were graded for modified Kupperman index （KI）， traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndromes， menopausal quality of life scale （MENQOL）， self-rating depression scale （SDS） and self-rating anxiety scale （SAS）. Follicle stimulating hormone （FSH），luteinizing hormone （LH），serum estrogen （E₂）， 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT）， dopamine （DA）， norepinephrine （NE）， 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid （5-HIAA）， endothelin （ET）， and nitric oxide （NO） levels were detected before and after therapy. Result:In the observation group， scores of KI， TCM syndrome， SDS and SAS were lower than those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. All dimensions of MENQOL scores in the observation group were lower than those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. FSH and LH levels in the observation group were lower than those in the control group， and the E₂ level was higher than that of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The levels of 5-HT， 5-HIAA， DA and NE in the observation group were higher than those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The ET level in the observation group was lower than that in the control group， and the NO level was higher than that of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. In observation group，the clinical efficacy was superior to that in control group （<italic>Z</italic>=2.073<italic>，P</italic><0.05）， and the efficacy of TCM syndromes was also superior to that in control group （<italic>Z</italic>=2.086<italic>，P</italic><0.05）. Conclusion:Shugan Bushen Huoxue decoction in the treatment of PPS in patients with kidney deficiency and liver depression and blood stasis can significantly reduce clinical symptoms， depression and anxiety， regulate the sex hormones， vasomotor factors and monoamine neurotransmitters levels， and improve the quality of life， with obvious clinical efficacy and high safety， so it is worthy of clinical use.

Modified Xiaoyao Erxian Decoction in Treatment of Mood Disorders in Perimenopausal Syndrome / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of modified Xiaoyao Erxian decoction in the treatment of mood disorders among perimenopausal syndrome due to kidney deficiency and liver depression and its effects on monoamine neurotransmitters and brain-derived neurotrophic factor （BDNF）. Method:According to the random number table， 108 patients were divided into a control group （54 cases） and an observation group （54 cases）. Control group were treated with Shugan Jieyu capsule orally， two capsules per time， two times per day， while those in the observation group received the modified Xiaoyao Erxian decoction， one bag per day， for 12 consecutive weeks. Before and after treatment， the Hamilton Anxiety Scale （HAMA）， 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale （HAMD-17）， modified Kupperman Index （KI）， Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index （PSQI）， Menopause-specific Quality of Life （MENQOL） and kidney deficiency and liver depression syndrome scores were calculated. The levels of estradiol （E₂）， follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH）， luteinizing hormone （LH）， BDNF， 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT）， norepinephrine （NE）， and dopamine （DA） were detected， followed by safety evaluation. Result:The HAMA， HAMD-17， KI， kidney deficiency and liver depression syndrome， PSQI， and MENQOL scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， whereas the 5-HT， E₂， DA， NE， and BDNF levels in the observation group were higher （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The clinical efficacy of the observation group was superior to that in the control group （<italic>Z</italic>=2.184， <italic>P</italic><0.05）. No adverse reactions occurred after the oral administration of Chinese medicinal preparations. Conclusion:The modified Xiaoyao Erxian decoction effectively alleviates the mood disorders and other related symptoms of perimenopausal syndrome due to kidney deficiency and liver depression by regulating the monoamine neurotransmitters， BDNF， and E₂， without inducing obvious side effects.

Clinical Observation of Modified Buzhong Yiqitang Combined with Erxian Decoction in Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence in Perimenopausal Women / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of the modified Buzhong Yiqitang combined with Erxian decoction in treating stress urinary incontinence （SUI） of perimenopausal women due to spleen and kidney Qi deficiency. Method:One hundred and six patients were randomly divided into a control group （52 cases） and an observation group（54 cases）. Patients in both groups received lifestyle intervention and pelvic floor muscle training （PFMT）. On this basis， patients in the observation group were further treated with the modified Buzhong Yiqitang combined with Erxian decoction， 1 bag/day， while those in the control group were provided with Suoquan pills， 6 g/time， 2 times/day， for eight weeks. Following the international consultation on incontinence questionnaire-short form （ICIQ-SF） scoring before and after treatment， the urodynamic parameters such as maximum urinary flow rate （Q_max）， maximum urethral closure pressure （MUCP）， residual urine volume （RUV）， abdominal pressure leakage point pressure （ALPP）， and bladder capacity （BC） were measured. The number of incontinence episodes per 24 h， the degree of urinary incontinence， the amount of 1 h urine leakage， and the spleen and kidney Qi deficiency syndrome score were recorded before and after treatment. The levels of estradiol （E₂）， follicle stimulating hormone （FSH）， pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide （PACAP）， and vasoactive intestinal peptide （VIP） were measured before and after treatment. Result:The ICIQ-SF sub-scores of the urinary incontinence frequency， severity， and impact on quality of life as well as the total score in the observation group were all lower than those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Q_max， MUCP， ALPP and BC in the observation group were elevated in contrast to those in control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， while the RUV declined （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Compared with the control group， the observation group exhibited a decreased number of incontinence episodes per 24 h， milder degree of urinary incontinence， reduced amount of 1 h urine leakage， and lower spleen and kidney Qi deficiency syndrome score （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The E₂， PACAP， and VIP in the observation group were up-regulated as compared with those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， whereas the FSH was down-regulated （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The cure and effective rates of the observation group were （29/50） 58.00% and （47/50）94.00%， respectively， significantly better than （18/48）37.50% and （38/48）79.17% of the control group （<italic>χ</italic>²=4.124， <italic>χ</italic>²=4.683， <italic>P</italic><0.05）. Conclusion:On the basis of the lifestyle intervention and PFMT， the modified Buzhong Yiqitang combined with Erxian decoction obviously alleviates urinary incontinence， adjusts sex hormones， PACAP and VIP， ameliorates urodynamic parameters， and enhances the quality of life of patients with SUI due to spleen and kidney Qi deficiency. The resulting cure and effective rates are superior to those of the positive control.