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Objective: To observe the effect of moxibustion on behaviors and related products of tryptophan (Trp) metabolism in the colon of mice with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and to explore the mechanism of moxibustion in the IBS treatment.Methods: Twenty-four mice were randomly divided into a normal group, a model group, a moxibustion group, and a probiotic group, with 6 mice in each group. The visceral pain model of IBS was established by enema with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) solution. Mice in the moxibustion group were treated with mild moxibustion at bilateral Zusanli (ST36), and those in the probiotic group were treated with probiotics such as Bifidobacterium by gavage. Abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) test, elevated plus-maze (EPM) test, and forced swimming test (FST) were performed after treatment. The expression levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) in the colon were detected by immunofluorescence, and the expression levels of Trp, kynurenine (Kyn), and indole-2,3-oxygenase (IDO) in the colon were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Compared with the normal group, the AWR scores were increased significantly in the model group under different pressure values (P<0.01), the open-arm staying time and open-arm entries in the EPM test were decreased significantly (P<0.01, P<0.05), the motionless time in the FST was increased significantly (P<0.01), and the expression levels of colonic Trp, TPH1, IDO, 5-HT, and Kyn were increased significantly (P<0.01) in the models. Compared with the model group, the AWR scores were differently decreased (P<0.05 or P<0.01), the open-arm entries in the EPM test were increased (P<0.05), the motionless times in the FST were decreased (P<0.05), and the colonic expression levels of Trp, TPH1, IDO, and 5-HT were decreased (P<0.01 or P<0.05) in the moxibustion and probiotic groups; the open-arm staying time was significantly increased in the moxibustion group (P<0.01), and the colonic expression level of Kyn was significantly decreased in the probiotic group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Moxibustion at Zusanli (ST36) improves visceral pain and pain mood and down-regulates the expression levels of colonic TPH1, IDO, Trp, 5-HT, and Kyn in IBS mice.
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Objective: To observe the effect of moxibustion on the expression of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor subtype 2B (NR2B) in the hippocampus of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) rats, and to explore the analgesic mechanisms of moxibustion in RA treatment. Methods: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a normal group, a model group, a moxibustion group, a moxibustion + NMDA receptor antagonist (AP-5) group, and a moxibustion + NMDA receptor agonist (NMDA) group, with 12 rats in each group. Except for the normal group, rats in the other four groups were treated with complete Freund's adjuvant in a windy, cold, and damp environment to replicate RA models. Rats in the moxibustion group received suspended moxibustion with moxa sticks at Shenshu (BL23) and Zusanli (ST36), and the two points were used alternately. After intraperitoneal injection of AP-5 or NMDA, rats in the moxibustion + AP-5 group and the moxibustion + NMDA group received the same moxibustion intervention as in the moxibustion group, once a day for 15 d. The thermal withdrawal latency (TWL) of rats in each group was detected before and after modeling and after the 15-day intervention. After the 15-day intervention, hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to observe the pathological changes in knee joints. The real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction method was used to detect the mRNA expression of NR2B in the hippocampus; Western blotting assay was used to detect the protein and the phosphorylated protein expression of hippocampal NR2B. Results: The synovial tissue was proliferated, the synovial lining was significantly thickened, the pannus was formed, and the cartilage and bone tissues were significantly damaged in the model group. After intervention, the pathological morphology of the knee joints in the moxibustion group, the moxibustion + AP-5 group, and the moxibustion + NMDA group was significantly improved, and the improvement in the moxibustion + AP-5 group was more notable than that in the moxibustion + NMDA group. Compared with the normal group, the TWL was significantly decreased (P<0.01), and the mRNA, protein, and phosphorylated protein expression levels of hippocampal NR2B were significantly increased in the model group (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the TWL of each intervention group was significantly increased (P<0.01 or P<0.05), and the mRNA, protein, and phosphorylated protein expression levels of hippocampal NR2B were significantly decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the moxibustion group, the TWL was significantly increased (P<0.01), and the mRNA, protein, and phosphorylated protein expression levels of hippocampal NR2B were significantly decreased in the moxibustion + AP-5 group (P<0.01); the TWL was significantly decreased (P<0.01), and the mRNA, protein, and phosphorylated protein expression levels of hippocampal NR2B were significantly increased in the moxibustion + NMDA group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Moxibustion reduces hyperalgesia in RA inflammatory rats. The analgesic effect may be related to the decrease in the expression and phosphorylation levels of NR2B in the hippocampus.
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Objective: To observe the effects of moxibustion at Shenshu (BL 23), Zusanli (ST 36) and Shenque (CV 8) on the energy metabolism and endocrine metabolism indicators of rats undergoing one-time exhaustive swimming, and to explore the differences between moxibustion at different points in the effects on anti-exercise fatigue. Methods: Forty-eight male SPF rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, a non-meridian and non-acupoint group, a Shenshu (BL 23) group, a Zusanli (ST 36) group, and a Shenque (CV 8) group using random number table method, with eight rats in each group. Except for the blank group, rats in the other groups were subjected to replicating the one-time exhaustive model using the weight-bearing swimming experiment. Except for the model group, the other model rats received mild moxibustion immediately after swimming. Rats in the non-meridian and non-acupoint group received mild moxibustion at bilateral subcostal non-meridian and non-acupoint points, those in the Shenshu (BL 23) group received mild moxibustion at bilateral Shenshu (BL 23), those in the Zusanli (ST 36) group received mild moxibustion at bilateral Zusanli (ST 36), and those in the Shenque (CV 8) group received mild moxibustion at Shenque (CV 8) for 15 min. Four hours after the exhaustive swimming, femoral artery blood was collected to detect blood lactate (BLA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), creatinine (CRE), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cortisol (C) and testosterone (T) levels, and calculate the T/C ratio. Results: Compared with the blank group, rat's serum levels of BLA, LDH, CK, BUN and C in the model group and the non-meridian and non-acupoint group were increased, and serum levels of CRE and T, and T/C ratios were decreased (P<0.01 or P<0.05); compared with the model group and the non-meridian and non-acupoint group, the serum levels of BLA, LDH, CK, BUN and C in the Shenshu (BL 23) group, Zusanli (ST 36) group and Shenque (CV 8) group were decreased, and the serum CRE and T levels, and the T/C ratios were increased (all P<0.01); compared with the Shenshu (BL 23) group, the serum CK level was decreased in the Shenque (CV 8) group (P<0.01), the serum levels of T and C were decreased in the Zusanli (ST 36) group and Shenque (CV 8) group (P<0.01 or P<0.05), and the T/C ratio was increased in the Shenque (CV 8) group (P<0.01); compared with the Zusanli (ST 36) group, the serum CK and BUN levels were decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05), and the T/C ratio was increased in the Shenque (CV 8) group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Moxibustion at Shenshu (BL 23), Zusanli (ST 36) and Shenque (CV 8) shows different anti-fatigue effects by regulating the energy metabolism and endocrine metabolism in rats undergoing one-time exhaustive swimming. Moxibustion at Shenshu (BL 23) is better in promoting energy synthesis. Moxibustion at Shenque (CV 8) is more effective in regulating synthesis and decomposition of the skeletal muscle proteins.
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Objective:To discuss the topical action characteristics of the biological transmission of moxibustion heat via temperature collection and numerical modeling.Methods:Temperature of moxibustion was measured at multiple points at a distance of 3 cm to obtain the moxibustion temperature field nephograms by the high-accuracy temperature measure array.Finite element analysis was used to imitate the three-dimensional dynamic distribution of temperature in acupoint tissues.Results:Through numerical analysis,the one-dimensional,two-dimensional and three-dimensional distributions of temperature in human acupoint tissues at 5 min of moxibustion were established.The result showed that moxibustion heat mainly transmitted from the surface of the tissue to the internal,and the influence of moxibustion heat decreased with the depth of the tissue.The analysis of the nephograms of acupoint tissue temperature at 5,10,15 and 20 min of moxibustion showed that with the increase of the moxibustion time,the temperature in acupoint tissues constantly rose,and the transmission depth of moxibustion heat also further expanded inside acupoint.Conclusion:By establishing the three-dimensional dynamic model of heat transmission inside acupoint tissues with the biological parameters of human tissues and the temperature values obtained,this study used finite element analysis software ANSYS 14.0 and discovered the rules in the transmission of heat in body tissues during moxibustion,and the features in moxibustion heat transmission (from the proximal to the distant) and heat penetration (from the surface to the internal).This study provides theoretical and experimental support for the application of moxibustion in clinical practice.
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Objective:To observe the effects of moxibustion on serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and to explore the effects of moxibustion on inflammatory damaging factors in experimental rheumatoid arthritis (RA) model rats; the relationship between the therapeutic effect of moxibustion on RA and the change in the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway was analyzed using Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) antagonists and agonists. Methods:Fifty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into a normal group, a model group, a moxibustion group, a moxibustion plus TLR4 agonist group (agonist group) and a moxibustion plus TLR4 antagonist group (antagonist group) according to the random number table, with 10 rats in each group. Except the normal group, rats in the other four groups were subjected to model preparation with the wind, cold and wet environmental factors plus Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA). Rats in the normal and model groups were not treated; rats in the moxibustion, agonist and antagonist groups started to be treated with the moxibustion (cigarette-type moxa) at bilateral Shenshu (BL 23) and Zusanli (ST 36) from the 4th day after the successful modeling, for 20 min each time with a total of 10 d. Rats in the agonist and the antagonist groups were injected with TLR4 agonist or antagonist [0.1 mg/(kg·bw)] via the tail vein 30 min before moxibustion. The concentrations of serum IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in each group were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results:Compared with the normal group, in the model group, the rat's right hind paw swelling was significantly obvious (P<0.01), there was a lot of inflammatory infiltration in the synovial tissues, the surface of the synovial membrane was unsmooth, the synovial membrane was hyperplasia and thicker, and the serum IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α concentrations increased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the paw swelling degrees of the rats in the moxibustion, the agonist and the antagonist groups reduced significantly (allP<0.01); the swelling degree in the antagonist group was milder than that in the agonist group, but the between-group difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05); inflammatory infiltration and synovial membrane hyperplasia in the synovial tissues of the moxibustion group and the antagonist group were all relieved differently; the decrease of synovial layer number in the moxibustion group was more obvious, and there were no obvious improvements in inflammatory infiltration and synovial thickness in the agonist group; the concentrations of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in the moxibustion group were decreased, and the differences in the IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations were statistically significant (allP<0.01); there was no significant between-group difference in the IL-8 concentration (P>0.05); the concentrations of serum IL-8 and TNF-α in the agonist group increased significantly (both P<0.01), while the IL-6 concentration decreased without significant difference (P>0.05); the concentrations of IL-6 and IL-8 in the antagonist group decreased but the between-group differences were statistically insignificant (bothP>0.05), and the TNF-α concentration significantly increased (P<0.05). Compared with the moxibustion group, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α concentrations increased in the agonist group, and the differences in the IL-8 and TNF-α concentrations were statistically significant (both P<0.01); the concentrations of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α increased in the antagonist group, and the differences in the IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations were statistically significant (bothP<0.01); there was no significant difference in the IL-8 concentration between the groups (P>0.05). The serum levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in the antagonist group were lower than those in the agonist group (allP<0.05). Conclusion:Moxibustion at Shenshu (BL 23) and Zusanli (ST 36) can reduce the joint swelling degree and inflammation in synovial tissue of RA model rats, decrease the serum levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α in RA model rats; the decreases of IL-6 and TNF-α are more significant than the decrease of IL-8; TLR4 agonist and antagonist can significantly attenuate the effect of moxibustion in inhibiting releases of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α, so that the change in TLR signaling pathway affects the effect of moxibustion in inhibiting the releases of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α.
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Objective:To compare and explore the effects of needling acupoints at different nerve segmentson the oxytocin (OT) neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of hypothalamus (PVN) and the intragastric pressure, and discuss the possible mechanisms. Methods: Thirty-two healthy adult Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were numbered and divided into 4 groups according to the random number table, a Zusanli (ST 36) group, a Neiguan (PC 6) group, a Weishu (BL 21) group and a control group, with 8 rats in each group. Except the control group, rats in the other three groups received acupuncture at the corresponding acupoints. To observe the differences in double-labeled OT neurons and c-fos neurons of the hypothalamic PVN and the intragastric pressure after acupuncture among the three groups of needling acupoints at different nerve segments. Results:Compared with the control group, the numbers of double-labeled cells in the PVN of the Zusanli (ST 36) group and the Neiguan (PC 6) group decreased significantly, while the intragastric pressure increased significantly (allP<0.05), and the inter-group differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The intragastric pressure in the Weishu (BL 21) group decreased significantly, and the inter-group difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Compared with the Weishu (BL 21) group, the numbers of OT/c-fos double-labeled cells in PVN of the Zusanli (ST 36) group and the Neiguan (PC 6) group decreased significantly, and the intragastric pressure increased significantly, the inter-group differences were statistically significant (allP<0.01). Conclusion:Acupoints at different nerve segments have different regulation effects on intragastric pressure. The difference may be related to the different nerve conduction pathways by acupoints at different nerve segments in regulating the intragastric pressure. The PVN may be one common integration center for the regulation of gastric function in the three acupoints [Zusanli (ST 36), Neiguan (PC 6) and Weishu (BL 21)] at different nerve segments.
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Objective:To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expressions of acetylcholine (ACh) and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in the lungs of rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),and explore the mechanism of EA in treating COPD.Methods:Thirty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a control group,a COPD group,and an EA group,with 10 rats in each group.The control group was a group of normal rats.The COPD rat model was induced by cigarette smoke combined with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).The COPD rats were treated with EA at bilateral Feishu (BL 13) and Zusanli (ST 36) in the EA group,30 min each time,once a day,successively for 14 d.The lung function was tested.The contents of ACh and MUC5AC in lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Pearson method was used to analyze the correlation between pulmonary function and the content of MUC5AC in lungs.The mRNA and protein expressions of MUC5AC in lung tissues were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot (WB),respectively.The immune response of MUC5AC was observed by immunohistochemistry.Results:Eight rats were left in each group,and the other two died.Compared with the control group,the total airway resistance (Raw) increased significantly and dynamic compliance (Cdyn) decreased significantly in the COPD group (P＜0.01);compared with the COPD group,the Raw level declined significantly and Cdyn increased significantly in the EA group (P＜0.01).The contents of ACh and MUC5AC in the lungs and BALF were remarkably higher in the COPD group compared with those in the control group (P＜0.01,P＜0.001);compared with the COPD group,the contents of ACh and MUC5AC were significantly lower in the EA group (P＜0.05,P＜0.001).There was a negative correlation between MUC5AC content and lung function (P＜0.001).The mRNA and protein expressions of MUC5AC in the lungs were significantly higher in the COPD group than in the control group (P＜0.001);compared with the COPD group,the expressions were significantly lower in the EA group (P＜0.01).Compared with the control group,the immune response of MUC5AC in the airway epithelium significantly increased in the COPD group (P＜0.001);the immune response of MUC5AC was significantly lower in the EA group compared with that in the COPD group (P＜0.001).Conclusion:EA treatment can improve the lung function of COPD rats,which may be related to its effect in the down-regulation of ACh and MUC5AC contents in the lungs as well as the inhibition of mucus hypersecretion.
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Objective: To investigate the protective effect of moxibustion in initiating the endogenous protection information on gastric mucosa, and its relationship with the pathway of common peroneal nerve.Methods: Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a normal group (group A), a model group (group B), a moxibustion model group (group C) and a moxibustion model plus surgery group (group D), 12 in each group. Except for group A, rats in the other groups were treated with dehydrated ethanol and aspirin to prepare gastric mucosal damage model. The rats in group B were not treated with any interventions; rats in group C received moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36), twice a day for continuous 3 d. The rats in group D were subjected to preparing the gastric mucosal damage model after the common peroneal nerve transection, followed by moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36). After a 3-day intervention, ulcer index (UI) in each group was observed, and the levels of gastric mucosa-related repair cytokines of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were detected.Results: Compared with group A, the pathological changes and UI of group B were worse (P=0.000), but TNF-α in serum and tissue was changed significantly (P=0.000,P=0.002), IL-4 in serum and tissue was improved significantly (P=0.000, P=0.000). Compared with group B, TNF-α and IL-4 in group C and group D were significantly improved (TNF-α:P=0.003, P=0.016; IL-4:P=0.000,P=0.002). Compared with group C, the changes of UI in group B and group D were poor (both P=0.000); the levels of TNF-α and IL-4 in serum were significantly decreased (TNF-α:P=0.000,P=0.025; IL-4:P=0.000, P=0.034); and tissue HSP70 levels were decreased significantly (P=0.000,P=0.033).Conclusion: Zusanli (ST 36) can transmit information through the pathway of common peroneal nerve, regulate the release of gastric mucosal protective factors, and up-regulate the expression of cytothesis-related proteins, so as to achieve the effect in repairing gastric mucosa.
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The contents about the central action mechanisms of needling Zusanli (ST 36) were sorted by summarizing the relevant literatures published in the past 10 years, and it was found that: by comparing acupuncture at Zusanli (ST 36), other acupoints or sham points, most studies showed that Zusanli (ST 36) had relatively specific characteristics in the brain function response; studies on the central action mechanisms of Zusanli (ST 36) were mainly focused on sequelae of cerebral apoplexy, pain, gastrointestinal diseases, weight loss and drug addiction withdrawal and so on; acupuncture manipulations, stimulation methods, individual differences, stimulation quantity, and stimulation duration, etc. could also induce different brain function responses; acupuncture at Zusanli (ST 36) had an after-working effect, also called long-term effect, but with poor repeatability. So, it was suggested that the future studies should focus on the factors that affect the clinical efficacies and experimental results, including the compatibility effects of the acupoints, reproducibility of research results, sample size, acupuncture methods, long-term effects and disease entities.
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Objective To investigate the effect of point Zusanli acupuncture on serum creatine kinase (CK) and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) in high-intensity military training soldiers and explore its possible antifatigue mechanism.Methods Sixty healthy soldiers were randomly allocated to groups A and B, 30 each. Group A received acupuncture at point Zusanli and group B, no treatment. After two weeks of treatment, two groups of soldiers separately did 5 km high-intensity running training and fulfilled the requirement of army examination. CK and CK-MB were measured in two groups before and after training and five days after training.Results In the two groups, there were statistically significant differences in serum CK and CK-MB contents between before training and after or five days after training (P<0.05). After or five days after training, there were statistically significant differences in serum CK and CK-MB contents between groups A and B (P<0.05).ConclusionsAcupuncture at point Zusanli can effectively improve bodily antifatigue ability and reduce myocardial and skeletal muscle injury caused by high-intensity exercise in military training soldiers.
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Objective To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture on renal CaM-eNOS-NO signal pathway in Dahl salt-sensitive rats with prehypertension.Methods Thirty 7-week-old male Dahl salt-sensitive rats (DS) were allocated,using a random number table,to model,acupuncture and non-meridian-acupoint groups.Ten 7-week-old male Dahl salt-resistant rats (DR) were used as a blank group.The rats were fed in a SPF animal experiment center.An 8％ NaC1 high salt diet was provided after 1-week adaptive feeding.During the period,rat blood pressure was monitored using an intelligent noninvasive sphygmomanometer.A rat model of prehypertension was successfully made if rat blood pressure rose to 120～ 139/80～89 mmHg after 12 days.At that time,a high salt diet was stopped and a normal diet was provided.The blank and model groups received 15-minute regular fixation and no treatment.The acupuncture group received electroacupuncture at bilateral Quchi and Zusanli.The non-meridianacupoint group received electroacupuncture at fixed control points selected between 10 and 15 mm above bilateral iliac crests 20 mm lateral to the midline.Treatment was given once daily,6 times a week,for five consecutive weeks.The left rat kidney was taken.CaM and eNOS mRNA expressions were determined by quantitative fluorescence PCR.eNOS was quantified and located by western blot and immunohistochemical method.NO content was measured by ELISA.Results As compared with the blank group,CaM and eNOS mRNA expressions,eNOS protein content and NO content decreased significantly in the model group (all P＜0.05).As compared with the model group,CaM and eNOS mRNA expressions,eNOS protein content and NO content increased significantly in the acupuncture group (all P＜0.05).As compared with the model group,CaM expression increased significantly (P＜0.05) but eNOS mRNA expression and NO content had no statistically significant differences (P＞0.05) in the non-meridian-acupoint group.Conclusion The renoprotective effect of electroacupuncture at Quchi and Zusanli may be related to upregulating renal CaM-eNOS-NO signal pathway in DS rats with prehypertension.
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Objective: To explore the clinical effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at Zusanli (ST 36) and Fenglong (ST 40) in treating senile dementia. Methods:A total of74 patients were randomly divided into an EA group and a medication group based upon the random digital table, 37 cases in each group. EA at Zusanli (ST 36) and Fenglong (ST 40) was given in the EA group, once every day, for six treatments per week. Donepezil Hydrochloride Tablets were given to the medication group, 5 mg per time and once a day in the former four weeks, 10 mg per time and once a day after 4 weeks, oral administration before sleep at night. The courses of the treatment were 12 weeks in both groups. The scores of mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and Barthel index (BI) were observed before and after the treatment, for processing the comparative analysis of the clinical effects after the course of the treatment. Results:The total effective rate was 86.5% in the EA group and 70.3% in the medication group. The therapeutic effect was better in the EA group than that in the medication group, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). MMSE and BI scores after the treatment in the two groups were all elevated than those of the same groups before the treatment (P<0.05,P<0.01). The improving situation was obviously better in the EA group than that in the medication group, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion:EA at Zusanli (ST 36) and Fenglong (ST 40) is affirmative in the therapeutic effect for senile dementia and can also improve the cognitive function and enhance the patients’ quality of life .
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Objective: To seek the optimal acupuncture time for primary dysmenorrhea and provide clinical basis for optimal acupuncture treatment protocol. Methods:A total of 90 eligible cases were randomly allocated into three groups, 30 cases in each group. Points Guanyuan (CV 4), bilateral Zusanli (ST 36) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) were selected for patients in all three groups, with a different treatment duration: 15 min in group A, 30 min in group B and 45 min in group C. Then the clinical efficacy in each group was evaluated by pain symptom scoring. Results:As for the pain symptom scores, there were statistically significant intra-group differences between before and after treatment in three groups (allP<0.05); coupled with statistically significant inter-group differences between group B and the other two groups (bothP<0.05). As for clinical efficacy, there were statistical differences between group B and the other two groups (bothP<0.05), indicating that 30 min of acupuncture is the optimal duration in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. Conclusion:With the same needling manipulation, 30 min of acupuncture treatment achieves a better efficacy for primary dysmenorrhea.
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Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of Zusanli moxibustion intervention in abdominal distention with enteral nutrition after stomach cancer surgery.Methods One hundred patients who had undergone stomach cancer surgery and received postoperative enteral nutrition were randomly allocated to treatment and control groups, 50 cases each. The control group received medication and the treatment group, Zusanli moxibustion in addition. Post-treatment incidences and grading scores of abdominal distention were compared between the two groups.Results The incidence of abdominal distention was 6.0% in the treatment group and 24.0% in the control group; there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05). The grading score of abdominal distention was (0.33±0.58) in the treatment group and (0.92±1.00) in the control group; there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05).Conclusion Zusanli moxibustion can effectively prevent the occurrence of abdominal distention in patients with enteral nutrition after stomach cancer surgery.
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Objective To investigate the effect of acupuncture at Zusanli, Sanyinjiao and Danzhong on mammary estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) expressions in rats with dimethylbenzanthracine (DMBA)-induced mammary cancer. Methods One hundred and twenty female SD rats aged 6-8 weeks were randomized into a model group of 60 rats and a blank group of 30 rats. The model group received an oral gavage of DMBA for model making. The blank group received an oral gavage of equal volume of sesame oil. At 15 weeks after model making, the model group of rats was randomized into treatment and control groups. The treatment group received acupuncture at Zusanli, Sanyinjiao and Danzhong, and the control and blank groups, only the same grasp and release. After the completion of acupuncture treatment (twenty-seventh week), abdominal venous blood was taken and serum tumor markers were determined by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Tumor masses were counted and their shapes were recorded. The mass was taken and its height, maximum diameter and vertical diameter were measured using a 1 mm precision vernier caliper. Pathological changes in tumor tissues, and ER and PR positive areas and mean optical densities were observed under an Olympus optical microscope.Results There were statistically significant post-treatment differences in the average number and volume of mammary tumors between the treatment group and the control or blank group (P<0.01,P<0.05) and between the control and blank groups (P<0.01). There were statistically significant post-treatment differences in the concentrations of various tumor markers (CA724, CA125, CA199, AEP, CA15-3, CEA and CA50) between the treatment or control group and the blank group (P<0.01,P<0.05) and between the control and blank groups (P<0.01). There was a statistically significant post-treatment difference in CA15-3 concentration between the treatment and control groups (P<0.01). There were statistically significant post-treatment differences in ER and PR positive areas and mean optical densities between the treatment group and the control or blank group (P<0.01) and between the control and blank groups (P<0.01).Conclusions Acupuncture can reduce the occurrence of rat DMBA-induced mammary tumor (including the number and volumes of the tumors). The mechanism of its action may be related to decreasing the concentrations of tumor markers CA724, CA125, CA199, CA15-3, AEP, CEA and CA50 and especially to decreasing CA15-3 concentration, and ER and PR positive areas and mean optical densities.
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Objective To investigate the effect of acupuncture plus Chinese herbal medication on plasma endothelin (ET-1) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in child patients with mesenteric lymphadenitis.Methods One hundred and eighty child patients with mesenteric lymphadenitis were randomly allocated to groups A, B and C, 60 cases each. Group A received acupuncture at Zusanli and pricking Sifeng points plus oral administration of Wudang Babao Zijinding; group B, oral administration of amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium granules; group C, oral administration of Wudang Babao Zijinding alone. ET-1 and CGRP contents were measured in the three groups before and after treatment.Results There were statistically significant pre-/post-treatment differences in ET-1 and CGRP contents in group A (P<0.01). There were statistically significant post-treatment differences in ET-1 and CGRP contents between group A and group B or C (P<0.01).Conclusions Acupuncture plus Chinese herbal medication is an effective way to treat mesenteric lymphadenitis in children. It can regulate ET-1 and CGRP in the patients.
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ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical efficacy of points injection of mouse nerve growth factor in treating sciatic nerve injury.MethodAcupuncture point injection of injectable mouse nerve growth factorwas performed in 60 patients with sciatic nerve injury. Points Huantiao(GB30)and Zusanli(ST36)were selected. Treatment was given once daily, for a total of 30 times. Sensory and motor functions were assessed (MS and SS) and electromyography (EMG) was performed before and after treatment to compare motor nerve conduction velocities (MCV) and sensory nerve conduction velocities (SCV) in the injured nerves and EMG changes in the musclescontrolled by the injured nerves.ResultAfter treatment, nerve function was restored to more than S3M3, with an efficacy rate of 81.7%, in 49 patients. Neuro-electrophysiological study showed that regenerative potentials occurred, accounting for 71.7%,in43patients. Denervated potentials were fewer after treatment than before; there was a significant difference (P<0.05). The mean MCV value increased after treatment compared with before; there was a significant difference (P<0.05). ConclusionAcupuncture point injection of mouse nerve growth factor can markedly improve sensory and motor functions in the regions controlled by the injured sciatic nerve. It provides an effective way to promote the repair of sciatic nerves and the reconstruction of limb function after the nerves are injured.
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Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of auricular acupuncture plus acupoint injection at Zusanli (ST 36) in treating shoulder pain due to gynecologic laparoscopy.Method Totally 120 patients with shoulder pain due to gynecologic laparoscopy were randomized into a treatment group and a control group, 60 cases in each group. The treatment group was intervened by auricular acupuncture plus acupoint injection at Zusanli (ST 36), while the control group was by ordinary analgesics. The clinical efficacies were compared after 2 treatment courses.Result The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, Present Pain Intensity (PPI), and the item scores of the Short-Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36) were significantly changed in both groups after treatment (P0.05). The total effective rate was 95.0% in the treatment group versus 75.0% in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).Conclusion Auricular acupuncture plus acupoint injection at Zusanli (ST 36) is effective in treating shoulder pain due to gynecologic laparoscopy, and it can effectively reduce the occurrence of complications.
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Objective:To investigate the effects of moxibustion on the serum metabolism in healthy human body based on the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) metabolomics technology, and to find the differences in metabolites, as well as to elucidate the effects of moxibustion on healthy human body from the viewpoint of global metabolism. Methods:Sixty subjects of healthy young men from the enrolled students were randomly divided into a moxibustion group and a control group using random number table, with 30 cases in each group. Subjects in the moxibustion group accepted mild moxibustion on the right Zusanli (ST 36), once a day, 15 min for each time, and continuous treatment for 10 d; those in the control group did not receive any intervention. There were 28 cases in the moxibustion group and 23 cases in the control group after interventions. On the 1st day, 5th day and 10th day of the intervention, serum samples were collected from subjects of the two groups, and metabolic spectra were obtained by the1H NMR technology. Results: Before and after the intervention, serum1H NMR of the moxibustion group was significantly different, while the difference was insignificant in the control group. Metabolite changes in the moxibustion group were mainly in low density lipoprotein (LDL)/very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), valine, isoleucine, leucine, lactic acid, glutamine, citric acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids, creatine, glycine, glycerol, glucose, tyrosine, histidine, formic acid, alanine, lysine, acetic acid, and glutamic acid. Conclusion:Moxibustion can cause changes of serum metabolic patterns in healthy human by influencing the concentrations of branched-chain amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and other metabolites to strengthen body's metabolisms of amino acids and fatty acid.
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Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of herb-partitioned moxibustion (HPM) for constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (C-IBS) from the perspective of regulating liver. Method Forty C-IBS patients were randomized into a HPM group and a Western medication group. The HPM group was intervened by HPM from the perspective of regulating liver, while the Western medication group was by lactulose, both for 4 weeks. The clinical efficacies were then compared between the two groups. Result In the HPM group, 13 subjects were recovered, 3 showed markedly effective, 1 showed effective, and 3 failed; in the Western medication group, 7 subjects were cured, 3 showed markedly effective, 2 showed effective, and 8 failed. The therapeutic efficacy of the HPM group was significantly superior to that of the Western medication group (P<0.01). Conclusion HPM by regulating liver can produce a significant clinical efficacy in treating C-IBS.