Clinical Effect of Jianpi Huoxue Prescription Combined with Acupuncture on Chronic Atrophic Gastritis with Gastric Blood Stasis and Its Impact on Inflammatory Indicators and Gastric Mucosal Function / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the application effect of Jianpi Huoxue prescription combined with acupuncture in patients with chronic atrophic gastritis （CAG） of gastric blood stasis type. MethodA total of 86 patients with CAG admitted to Wuhan First Hospital from November 2021 to March 2023 were selected and randomly divided into two groups. The control group was treated with conventional Western medicine， while the observation group was treated with Jianpi Huoxue prescription combined with acupuncture. The clinical efficacy， traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndrome score， pathological score， negative conversion rate of Helicobacter pylori （Hp）， inflammatory indicators ［neutrophils/lymphocytes （NLR） and interleukin （IL）-1β］， changes in levels of gastric protease （PG） Ⅰ， PG Ⅰ/PG Ⅱ， and gastrin-17 （G-17）， and drug safety during treatment were observed after treatment in both groups. ResultAfter treatment， the total effective rate of the observation group ［95.35% （41/43）］ was significantly better than that of the control group ［79.07% （34/43）］， and the difference was statistically significant （χ2=5.108， P<0.05）. After treatment， the scores of the primary and secondary TCM syndromes in the observation group and the control group were significantly decreased （P<0.05）. After treatment， the scores of primary and secondary TCM syndromes in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the pathological scores of gastric mucosa atrophy， activity， chronic inflammation， intestinal metaplasia， and dysplasia were significantly lower in the observation group and control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the pathological scores of gastric mucosa atrophy， activity， chronic inflammation， intestinal metaplasia， and dysplasia in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the Hp conversion rate in the observation group was significantly increased compared with the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the levels of inflammatory indicators NLR and IL-1β in the observation group and control group were significantly lower （P<0.05）， and the levels of inflammatory indicators NLR and IL-1β in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the levels of PGI and PGⅠ/PGⅡ in the observation group and control group were significantly higher （P<0.05）， and the levels of PGI and PGⅠ/PGⅡ in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， the G-17 level of the observation group and the control group was different at different time points （P<0.05）， and the G-17 level of the observation group was higher at different time points than that of the control group （P<0.05）. The G-17 level of the observation group had an increasing trend compared with the control group （P<0.05）. There was no significant difference in the risk of adverse reactions between the two groups. ConclusionThe combination of Jianpi Huoxue prescription and acupuncture can effectively alleviate symptoms， increase Hp negative conversion rate， inhibit inflammation， and regulate PG and G-17 levels in CAG patients， thus controlling or even reversing gastric mucosal atrophy and reducing the probability of its progression to gastric cancer.

She Medicine （畲药） Diren Zishen Formula （地稔滋肾方） Combined with Acupuncture as Adjunctive Treatment for 32 Cases of Primary Biliary Cholangitis with Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency Syndrome / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical effectiveness and safety of She medicine （畲药） Diren Zishen Formula（地稔滋肾方） combined with acupuncture as adjunctive treatment for primary biliary cholangitis with liver and kidney yin deficiency syndrome. MethodsSeventy patients of primary biliary cholangitis with liver and kidney yin deficiency syndrome were randomly divided into a control group and a treatment group， with 35 patients in each group. The control group received oral ursodeoxycholic acid capsules （250 mg per dose， three times daily）. The treatment group received She medicine Diren Zishen Formula oral decoction （one dose daily， 200 ml per dose in the morning and evening， served warm） and acupuncture ［bilateral Sanyingjiao （SP6）， Taichong （LR3）， Ganshu （BL18）， Zusanli （ST36）， Fenglong （ST17）， once daily， 5 consecutive days per week］ in addition to the same treatment as the control group. The treatment duration was three months for both groups. Comparisons were made between the two groups before and after treatment for the following parameters， which were four traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） symptoms scores （skin itching， fatigue， jaundice， and flank pain）， TCM syndrome scores， liver function indicators including aspartate aminotransferase （AST）， alanine aminotransferase （ALT）， alkaline phosphatase （ALP）， gamma-glutamyl transferase （GGT） and total bilirubin （TBiL）， liver fibrosis markers including serum laminin （LN）， serum hyaluronic acid （HA）， serum type Ⅳ collagen （Ⅳ-C） and serum type Ⅲ procollagen （PC-Ⅲ）， and inflammatory factor indicators including serum interleukin-6 （IL-6） and tumor necrosis factor-alpha （TNF-α）. The effectiveness of TCM syndrome between the two groups was compared and safety evaluations were also conducted after treatment. ResultsA total of 32 cases were finally analyzed in the treatment group， while the control group had 31 cases. The total effective rate of TCM syndrome in the treatment group （87.50%， 28/32） was higher than that in the control group （67.74%， 20/31） （P＜0.05）. After treatment， the TCM symptom scores， syndrome scores， liver function， and liver fibrosis markers in both groups signi-ficantly decreased， while in the treatment group， the inflammatory factor indicators decreased after treatment， and more decreases were found than those in the control group （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. Both groups had good safety， and no adverse reactions were observed. ConclusionThe combination of She medicine Diren Zishen Formula and acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment for primary biliary cholangitis can significantly improve the clinical effectiveness， improve liver function， reduce inflammatory response， and alleviate liver fibrosis， with good safety.

Clinical Study of Modified Shenqi Pill （肾气丸） Plus Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture （通督调神针刺） for Neurogenic Bladder After Spinal Cord Injury of Kidney-Yang Deficiency Syndrome / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical efficacy of modified Shenqi Pill （肾气丸） plus Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture （通督调神针刺） in the treatment of neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome. MethodsForty-six patients were randomly divided into 23 cases each in the control group and the treatment group. Both groups were given conventional treatment， i.e. oral methylcobalamin tablets （0.5 mg each time， 3 times a day） and paraplegic conventional acupuncture （once a day， 6 consecutive days a week）. The control group was given simple bladder function rehabilitation training on the basis of the conventional treatment； and the treatment group was given modified Shenqi Pill orally （1 dose a day， 150 ml each time， taken warmly in morning and evening） and Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture （once a day， 6 consecutive days per week） in addition to what were given to the control group. The treatment course lasted for 4 weeks. The 24 h urination frequency， 24 h urine leakage frequency， 24 h single urine volume， bladder residual urine volume， international lower urinary tract symptom （LUTS） score， traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndrome score were compared between the two groups， and clinical effectiveness and TCM syndrome effectiveness were compared between the two groups after treatment. ResultsTwenty patients in each group were finally analyzed in this study. The number of 24 h urination， the number of 24 h urine leakage， bladder residual urine volume， LUTS score， and the TCM syndrome scores decreased after treatment in both groups， and the 24 h single urine volume increased （P＜0.01）； and much more improvement was found of each index in the treatment group than in the control group （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. The total clinical effectiveness and TCM syndrome effectiveness in the treatment group was 85.00% （17/20） respectively， which were statistically significantly higher than 45.00% （the total clinical effectiveness， 9/20） and 60.00% （TCM syndrome effectiveness， 12/20） in the control group （P＜0.01）. ConclusionModified Shenqi Pill plus Tongdu Tiaoshen Acupuncture can signi-ficantly improve the clinical symptoms of neurogenic bladder patients after spinal cord injury of kidney-yang deficiency syndrome， having better effectiveness than simple bladder function rehabilitation training， and its mechanism may be related to the improvement of the injured nerve function innervating the bladder.

Effect of Acupuncture at “Zhibian （BL 54）-to-Shuidao （ST 28）” on Key Factors of Endogenous Exogenous Apoptotic Pathways in Asthenospermia Model Mice / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of acupuncture “Zhibian （BL 54）-to-Shuidao （ST 28）” on the reproductive function of asthenospermia model mice and to explore the possible mechanism. MethodsForty-two male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into blank group， model group， and acupuncture group， with 14 mice in each group. Cyclophosphamide 30 mg/（kg·d） was injected intraperitoneally for 7 days to establish model of asthenospermia for the model group and the acupuncture group， while 0.9% sodium chloride solution 10 ml/（kg·d） was injected intraperitoneally for 7 days in the blank group. After successful modeling， mice in the acupuncture group received acupuncture at “Zhibian （BL 54）-to-Shuidao （ST 28）” once a day for 20 minutes， 6 times a week for 3 weeks； the remaining two groups were fixed without acupuncture. Daily observations were made on the general conditions of mice in all groups， and changes in body weight after intervention were recorded. On the next day after completing the treatment， 6 male mice selected randomly from each group to test the sperm quality as well as testicular and epididymal weights， and calculate the corresponding indices； ELISA was used to test the levels of testosterone （T）， follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH）， and luteinizing hormone （LH） in serum； HE staining and TUNEL staining were performed to observe the pathological morphology and apoptosis of testicular and epididymal tissues； fluorescence quantitative PCR and western blot were used to detect changes in the expression of apoptosis-related factors （Fas）， Fas-associated death domain protein （FADD）， B-cell lymphoma 2 （Bcl-2）， Bcl-2-associated X protein （Bax）， and cysteine-aspartic acid protease （caspase）-3 mRNA and protein in testicular tissue. The remaining 8 male mice in each group were housed with estrus-cycling mice of the same strain at 1∶1 ratio， and the pregnancy rate and number of embryos per litter in each group were determined after mating. ResultsIn comparison with the blank group， mice in the model group exhibited reduced body weight， decreased testicular mass， testicular index， epididymal mass， and epididymal index. Additionally， there was a decrease in total sperm count， sperm motility， and sperm viability. Serum levels of T， FSH， and LH were reduced. The apoptosis rate increased， and the expression levels of Fas， FADD， Bax， and Caspase-3 mRNA and proteins were elevated， while Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression levels decreased （P＜0.01）. Pathological abnormalities were observed in testicular and epididymal tissues， with disrupted arrangement of seminiferous tubules and a decreased number of spermatogenic cells within the tubular lumen. Furthermore， the pregnancy rate and the number of embryos per litter decreased significantly after mating （P＜0.01）. In comparison with the model group， mice in the acupuncture group showed improvements in testicular mass， testicular index， epididymal mass， epididymal index， total sperm count， sperm motility， and sperm viability. Serum levels of T， FSH， and LH increased. The apoptosis rate decreased， and the expression levels of Fas， FADD， Bax， and Caspase-3 mRNA and proteins decreased， while Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression levels increased （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. Morphological improvements were observed in testicular and epididymal tissues， with a compact arrangement of seminiferous tubules and an increased number of spermatogenic cells within the tubular lumen. Furthermore， the pregnancy rate and the number of embryos per litter increased significantly after mating （P＜0.01）. ConclusionAcupuncture “Zhibian （BL 54）-to-Shuidao （ST 28）” can improve testicular tissue apoptosis and enhance reproductive function in a mouse model of asthenospermia. Its mechanism may be associated with the modulation of key factors in the extrinsic membrane receptor pathway （Fas-mediated pathway） and the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway （Bcl-2/Bax-regulated pathway） in testicular tissue.

Application of proteomics technology in dry eye disease and acupuncture treatment / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

Dry eye disease(DED)refers to a condition characterized by reduced stability of the tear film or an imbalance in the microenvironment of the ocular surface, resulting from abnormalities in quality, quantity and kinetics of tear. This condition leads to various ocular discomforts and even visual impairment. The pathogenesis of DED is multifactorial and current treatment mainly focuses on symptom relief and preservation of visual function. Acupuncture has shown effectiveness in treating dry eye, although its underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Proteomics technology offers a comprehensive and systematic approach to studying the functions, structures and interactions of proteins. Its application in DED research can provide valuable insights into the dynamic changes in protein levels associated with different etiology or the course of DED and facilitate the identification of potential biomarkers. Furthermore, proteomics can systematically explore the regulatory mechanisms underlying acupuncture treatment for DED, providing a theoretical basis for acupuncture treatment research and contributing to the understanding of its effects at a fundamental level. This paper aims to explore the potential application of proteomics in both clinical and basic research on DED. Ultimately, it strives to offer scientific and effective strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of DED and advance our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying acupuncture therapy.

Acupuncture in the Treatment of a Series of Patients with Chronic Pain Associated with Hip Osteoarthritis / Acupuntura no tratamento de uma série de pacientes com dor crônica associado à osteoartrite de quadril

Abstract Objective Hip osteoarthritis (HO) causes pain and deranges functioning. Surgical treatment is the preferred approach in severe cases, but clinical comorbidities, age and the long waiting list may compromise quality of life. This study aimed to describe the results of acupuncture for the control pain and improvement of functioning in subjects with HO. Method Twelve severe HO patients were treated with ten weekly sessions of a standardized acupuncture point protocol. Pain intensity was assessed with the Visual Analog Pain Scale (VAS) and quality of life with WOMAC Index. Results Pain intensity (VAS) reduced from 75.8 ± 18.8 mm to 20.0 ± 22.6 mm after 10 acupuncture sessions and 48.3 ± 26.6mm in the follow-up (ANOVA F = 7.99; p < 0.001). WOMAC Index values reduced from 74.7 ± 12.7 to 45.7 ± 22.1 and 54.6 ± 22.9 at the same timepoints. Conclusion Acupuncture is an effective conservative rehabilitation strategy to reduce pain and improve quality of life in subjects with severe HO.

Resumo Objetivo A osteoartrite (OA) de quadril causa dor e perda da funcionalidade. O tratamento cirúrgico é a procedimento de escolha nos casos graves, mas as comorbidades clínicas, a idade e a longa lista de espera podem comprometer a qualidade de vida. Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever os resultados da acupuntura no controle da dor e melhora da funcionalidade em indivíduos com OA de quadril. Método Doze pacientes com OA de quadril grave foram tratados com dez sessões semanais de um protocolo padronizado de pontos de acupuntura. A intensidade da dor foi avaliada pela Escala Visual Analógica de Dor (EVA) e a qualidade de vida pelo Índice WOMAC. Resultados A intensidade da dor (EVA) reduziu de 75,8 ± 18,8mm para 20,0 ± 22,6mm após 10 sessões de acupuntura e 48,3 ± 26,6mm no período de seguimento (ANOVA F = 7,99; p < 0,001). Os valores do Índice WOMAC reduziram de 74,7 ± 12,7 para 45,7 ± 22,1 e 54,6 ± 22,9 nos mesmos momentos. Conclusão A acupuntura é uma estratégia de reabilitação conservadora eficaz para reduzir a dor e melhorar a qualidade de vida em indivíduos com OA de quadril grave.

El valor de la acupuntura en la práctica de la medicina tradicional complementaria en el sector salud de México / The value of acupuncture in the practice of complementary traditional medicine in Mexico's health sector

Introduction: Complementary traditional medicine acquires an essential value from the diversity and pluralism of care and therapy. In this logic, it is up to people to search for alternatives when it comes to caring for and improving their own health. Specifically, acupuncture has had rapid growth, largely due to processes derived from globalization, migration and cultural exchange, which in some way force countries to modify their health system towards one that takes into account the transculturality of its population and treatment preferences. Development: With the establishment of a comprehensive health model, physicians can assess the person as a homeodynamic process (information exchange process between environment and man, to keep an internal and external homeostasis to the individual) and pandimensional (spiritual and energetic care) that allows to identify the health problem's origin and thus determine an intervention more in line with the person's needs during the health-disease, life-death processes, with the corresponding conventional or non-conventional therapy. Conclusions: The value and interest of acupuncture in the population derives from the degree of development of a country, its origin and the incorporation of the West as part of the diagnostic and therapeutic arsenal, in order to respond to the population needs by incorporating low-cost complementary treatments with proven effectiveness, without ceasing to consider its unquestionable cultural heritage.

Introducción: la medicina tradicional complementaria adquiere un valor imprescindible desde la diversidad y el pluralismo de la asistencia y la terapéutica. En esa lógica, corresponde a las personas la búsqueda social de alternativas cuando se trata de atender y mejorar la propia salud. En específico la acupuntura ha tenido un rápido crecimiento, en gran parte debido a la globalización, la migración y el intercambio cultural, que de alguna forma obligan a los países a modificar su sistema de salud hacia uno que tome en cuenta la transculturalidad de su población y las preferencias de tratamiento. Desarrollo: con el establecimiento de un modelo de salud integral, los médicos pueden valorar a la persona como un proceso homeodinámico (intercambio de información entre el ambiente y el hombre para mantener una homeostasis interna y externa del individuo) y pandimensional (cuidado espiritual y energético) que permita identificar el origen real del problema de salud y determinar una intervención más acorde a las necesidades de la persona durante los procesos de salud-enfermedad, de vida-muerte, con la terapia convencional o no convencional que corresponda. Conclusiones: el valor e interés de la acupuntura en la población se deriva del grado de desarrollo de un país, de su origen y de la incorporación de occidente como parte del arsenal diagnóstico y terapéutico, para responder a las necesidades de la población al incorporar tratamientos complementarios de bajo costo y con efectividad demostrada, y sin dejar de considerar su herencia cultural incuestionable.

Tratamiento combinado de catgutpuntura y ozonoterapia en la psoriasis vulgar. Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Lucia Íñiguez Landín. 2019- 2021

Fundamento: la psoriasis afecta aproximadamente al 2 % de la población mundial, con amplias repercusiones biopsicosociales. Objetivo: determinar la efectividad del tratamiento combinado catgutpuntura-ozonoterapia en los pacientes con psoriasis vulgar. Métodos: estudio cuasiexperimental de intervención del tipo antes y después sin grupo de control realizado en el Hospital Lucia Íñiguez Landín, en el período abril 2019 a 2021. La población estuvo constituida por 55 pacientes; la muestra quedó conformada por 29 que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Se realizó un análisis multivariado de frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Para evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento se utilizó la prueba estadística de diferencia de proporciones con un nivel de confianza de 95 %, considerándose estadísticamente significativa. Resultados: predominó el sexo femenino y el grupo de edad de 40 a 49 años. Los síndromes de insuficiencia del Yin de riñón y Xue de hígado constituyeron los más representativos. Se logró disminuir la severidad de la enfermedad en casi la totalidad de estos. Las reacciones adversas a las terapias empleadas fueron mínimas. Conclusiones: el tratamiento combinado fue considerado parcialmente efectivo.

Background: psoriasis affects approximately 2 % of the world population, with extensive biopsychosocial repercussions. Objective: to determine the effectiveness of the combined catgutpuncture-ozone therapy treatment in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Methods: quasi-experimental intervention study of the type before and after without a control group carried out at the Lucia Íñiguez Landín Hospital, from April 2019 to 2021. 55 patients were the population; 29 patients were the sample who met the inclusion criteria. A multivariate analysis of absolute and relative frequencies was performed. To evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment, the statistical test of proportions' difference was used with a confidence level of 95%, being considered statistically significant. Results: the female sex and the age group of 40 to 49 years old predominated. Kidney Yin and liver Xue insufficiency syndromes was the most representative. It was possible to reduce the severity of the disease in almost all of them. Adverse reactions to the therapies used were minimal. Conclusions: the combined treatment was considered partially effective.

Effect of acupuncture on the molar bite force in women with chronic neck pain / Efecto de la acupuntura sobre la fuerza de mordida en mujeres con cervicalgia crónico

Objetive: To investigate the maximum molar bite force in women with chronic neck pain after treatment with acupuncture. Materials and Methods: Twenty-three women with chronic neck pain participated. Dynamometer was used to measure the right and left maximum molar bite force. Dong Bang acupuncture needles - 0.25 mm x 30 mm was inserted into the integumentary tissue. Treatment was 10 sessions, each 30 minutes long and twice a week. Results: The right (p = 0.01) and left (p = 0.004) molar bite force was assessed after treatment with acupuncture, and showed increased occlusal strength. Conclusions: This study suggests a functional improvement in the stomatognathic system in women with chronic cervical pain after treatment with acupuncture. However, it is important to note that further research is needed to fully elucidate the long-term effects and potential clinical implications of these findings in the field of pain management and rehabilitation.

Objetivo: Investigar la fuerza masticatoria máxima en mujeres con dolor crónico de cuello después del tratamiento con acupuntura. Materiales y Métodos: Participaron veintitrés mujeres con dolor crónico de cuello. Se utilizó un dinamómetro para medir la fuerza máxima de mordida del molar derecho e izquierdo. Agujas de acupuntura Dong Bang se insertaron 0,25 mm x 30 mm en el tejido tegumentario. El tratamiento fue de 10 sesiones, cada una de 30 minutos de duración, dos veces por semana. Resultados: Se observó la fuerza de mordida del molar derecho (p=0.01) e izquierdo (p=0.004) después del tratamiento con acupuntura, que mostró un aumento de la fuerza oclusal. Conclusión: Este estudio sugiere una mejora funcional en el sistema estomatognático en mujeres con dolor cervical crónico después del tratamiento con acupuntura. Sin embargo, es importante señalar que se necesita más investigación para dilucidar por completo los efectos a largo plazo y las posibles implicaciones clínicas de estos hallazgos en el campo del tratamiento y la rehabilitación del dolor.

Effect of acupuncture on heart rate variability in individuals with multiple sclerosis: a protocol for a double-blinded randomized controlled trial / Efeito da acupuntura na variabilidade da frequência cardíaca em indivíduos com esclerose múltipla: um protocolo para ensaio randomizado controlado duplo cego

Introdução: o crescimento de pacientes com esclerose múltipla que procuram tratamento com acupuntura é baseado em relatos clínicos de melhora dos sintomas. Considerando que o comprometimento autonômico, incluindo a disfunção autonômica cardiovascular, não é incomum em pacientes com EM a neuromodulação com acupuntura pode ser uma ferramenta interessante para alterar a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca nessa população.Objetivo: avaliar a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca em pacientes com esclerose múltipla, durante a aplicação da Acupuntura, a fim de analisar o comportamento do sistema nervoso autônomo antes, durante e após a terapia e as mudanças na condição após uma intervenção longitudinal.Métodos: será realizado um ensaio clínico cruzado, randomizado, placebo-controlado, duplo-cego, com proporção de alocação de 1:1, com 40 indivíduos sem doença prévia, que constituirão o grupo controle, e 40 indivíduos com Esclerose Múltipla, que constituirão o grupo experimental. grupo, pareado por idade e sexo. Todos os participantes realizarão sessões de acupuntura ativas ou simuladas.Discussão: de acordo com os estudos encontrados, é esperada disfunção autonômica cardiovascular, com alterações na variabilidade da frequência cardíaca. Embora a neuromodulação com acupuntura possa controlar a dor e a inflamação, ainda há dificuldades em afirmar se o equilíbrio entre os sistemas simpático e parassimpático pode ser alterado pela acupuntura.

Backgroung: the growing of patients with multiple sclerosis seeking acupuncture treatment is based on clinical reports of improvements in symptoms. Considering that autonomic impairment, including cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction, is not uncommon in patients with MS, neuromodulation with acupuncture could be an interesting tool to change heart rate variability in this population.Objective: to evaluate heart rate variability in patients with multiple sclerosis, during the application of acupuncture, in order to analyze the behavior of the autonomic nervous system before, during and after therapy and changes in condition after a longitudinal intervention.Methods: a double-blinded randomized sham-controlled crossover trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio will be conducted, with 40 individuals without a previous illness, who will constitute the control group, and 40 individuals with Multiple Sclerosis, who will constitute the experimental group, paired by age and sex. All participants will undertake active or sham acupuncture sessions.Discussion: according to the studies found, cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction is expected, with alterations in heart rate variability. Although neuromodulation with acupuncture can control pain and inflammation, there are still difficulties in affirming whether the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems can be changed by acupuncture

Behavioral Risk Factors of HBV Infection and its Association with HBs Ag Positivity among Residents of Kaza Sub- division of District Lahaul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh

Background: Chronic viral hepatitis is a major global public health problem, an important cause of morbidity and mortality. We conducted this study to evaluate the behavioral risk factors of HBV infection and its association with HBsAg positivity among residents of Kaza sub-division of district Lahaul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. Material & Methods: The study was carried out by the Gastroenterology, Community Medicine, and Microbiology Department at Indira Gandhi Medical College Shimla at Kaza, a subdivision of Lahaul & Spiti. The cluster sampling technique was used to get the desired sample size of 4000. Forty clusters were chosen using a probability proportionate to size sampling method, and 100 research participants were added to each cluster using a simple random sampling method. The data was gathered using a pre-tested interview plan. A blood sample of 5ml from each study participant was obtained, and its HBsAg content was examined. Results: In our study, 2.7% of the interviewed respondents’ parents were positive for hepatitis B and 3.7% reported one positive family member. Injectable drug use was reported by 1.6 (68/4231). Among these users 8.8% (6/68) shared needles with other IDUs in last 12 months and 35.3% (24/68) used a common container to draw up drug solution. Sexual intercourse was reported to be experienced by 15.5 (655/4231) and 12.2% either did not disclose or were children. Out of those who ever experienced sexual/penetrative intercourse 38.3% (251/655) had reported it with someone else other than a spouse. Majority of these had two partners other than a spouse (30.3%; 76/251). Around 30% (195/655) reported of using a condom in their last intercourse. Body piercings or a tattoo from someone who doesn’t sterilize his or her equipment, including local treatment from lamas, was prevalent among 16.3% of the population (689/4231). Acupuncture was taken as a remedy for any medical condition by 9% of participants. Regression analysis also revealed that one infected family member emerged as an independent factor associated with HBsAg positive test after adjusting for confounders. Conclusion: Our study provided much important information concerning hepatitis B risk factors in this tribal group. Health education about behavioral risk factors among this tribal population should be the main intervention that might help limit the spread of these blood-borne infections.

Formación médica en la terapéutica no convencional en el mundo (homeopatía y acupuntura) / Medical training in non-conventional therapeutics in the world (homeopathy and acupuncture)

Utilizadas de forma complementaria, alternada o integrada con la medicina convencional, la demanda de la población por las terapias no convencionales se ha incrementado considerablemente en las últimas décadas, requiriendo de los médicos un conocimiento de las nociones básicas de tales enfoques terapéuticos para orientar a sus pacientes en relación con tratamientos distintos a aquellos que suelen prescribir. Entre las mismas, la homeopatía y la acupuntura se han considerado especialidades médicas en Brasil durante varias décadas. Objetivo: Describir el estado actual de la formación médica en terapias no convencionales (homeopatía y acupuntura) alrededor del mundo. Métodos: Actualizamos los datos relacionados con los estudios y revisiones publicados hasta 2013 a través de una revisión de los estudios más recientes incluidos en la base de datos PubMed. Resultados: En todos los países, la enseñanza de terapias no convencionales se considera un tema relevante para la formación de médicos como una función del creciente interés de la población en su uso, con un amplia variedad de enfoques dirigidos a los estudiantes de licenciatura y posgrado, médicos residentes y profesionales con otras especialidades médicas. Conclusiones: Las escuelas brasileñas de medicina deben proporcionar a los estudiantes de licenciatura y posgrado, así como a los médicos residentes, un conocimiento preciso de los supuestos teóricos y enfoques clínico-terapéuticos propios de la homeopatía y la acupuntura, entre otras terapias no convencionales.

Used as complementary to, alternating or integrated with mainstream medicine, the population's demand for non-conventional therapies has substantially increased in the past decades, requiring from doctors knowledge on the basic notions of such therapeutics to orient their patients regarding treatments different to the ones they usually prescribe. Among them, homeopathy and acupuncture are considered medical specialties in Brazil for various decades. Aim: To describe the current state of medical education in non-conventional therapies (homeopathy and acupuncture) around the world. Methods: We updated data resulting from studies and reviews published until 2013 through a review of more recent studies included in database PubMed. Results: In all countries the teaching of non-conventional therapies is considered a relevant topic for the training of doctors as a function of the increasing interest of the population in their use, with a broad range of approaches targeting undergraduate and graduate students, medical residents and doctors from other medical specialties. Conclusions: The Brazilian medical schools must provide undergraduate and graduate students and medical residents accurate knowledge on the theoretical assumptions and clinical-therapeutic approaches proper to homeopathy and acupuncture, among other non-conventional therapies.

Colic and sleep outcomes of nonpharmacological intervention in infants with infantile colic: systematic review and metaanalysis

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to systematically review the colic and sleep outcomes of nonpharmacological intervention in infants with infantile colic and perform a meta-analysis of the available evidence. METHODS: The literature review for this systematic review was conducted between December 2022 and January 2023 using five electronic databases, namely PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and ULAKBİM. Published articles were scanned using MeSH-based keywords. Only randomized controlled trials conducted in the past 5 years were included. The data were analyzed using the Review Manager computer program. RESULTS: This meta-analysis included three studies involving a total of 386 infantile colic infants. After nonpharmacological treatment, it was found that infants with infantile colic reduced crying time (standardized mean difference: 0.61; 95%CI 0.29-0.92; Z=3.79; p=0.00002), improved sleep duration (standardized mean difference: 0.22; 95%CI −0.04 to 0.48; Z=1.64; p=0.10), and decreased crying intensity (mean difference: −17.24; 95%CI −20.11 to 14.37; Z=11.77; p<0.000001). CONCLUSION: According to the meta-analysis findings, it was determined that the risk of bias was low in the studies included and that nonpharmacological chiropractic, craniosacral, and acupuncture treatments applied to infantile colic infants in the three included studies reduced crying time and intensity and increased sleep duration.

Effects of exercise training combined with acupuncture and moxibustion on fatigue / Efeitos do treinamento de exercício combinado à acupuntura e moxabustão sobre a fadiga / Efectos del entrenamiento físico combinado con acupuntura y moxibustión sobre la fatiga

ABSTRACT Introduction: Muscle fatigue bothers athletes, affecting training level and competitive performance, it also has a great impact on the physical health of athletes, predisposing them to accidents and an early termination of their career. Relieving sports fatigue is the focus of research in the field of sports health nowadays. Objective: Study the effect of acupuncture and moxibustion rehabilitation combined with physical training on sports fatigue. Methods: A controlled experiment was used. The experimental group used acupuncture and moxibustion combined with exercise training, while the control group used acupuncture and moxibustion. The same group of doctors performed the acupuncture and moxibustion treatment according to the actual situation of the patients, and they tested the changes in VAS pain score and PRI pain score. Results: The VAS pain score in the experimental group was 7.88 points before the procedure and 2.96 points after the sixth week of the procedure. The control group score was 7.67 before the start and 5.03 after training. The total PRI pain score in the experimental group was 6.52 points before training and 2.05 points in the sixth week of training. The control group scored 6.66 before the procedure and 3.89 in the sixth week. Conclusion: The combination of training and exercises can achieve a better rehabilitation effect compared to the isolated treatment of acupuncture and moxibustion. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução: A fadiga muscular incomoda os atletas, afetando o nível de treinamento e o desempenho competitivo, também tem um grande impacto sobre a saúde física dos atletas, predispondo a acidentes e a um término precoce da carreira. Aliviar a fadiga esportiva é o foco da pesquisa no campo da saúde esportiva nos dias de hoje. Objetivo: Estudar o efeito de reabilitação pela acupuntura e moxabustão combinada com o treinamento físico sobre a fadiga esportiva. Métodos: Foi utilizado um experimento controlado. O grupo experimental usou acupuntura e moxabustão combinadas com treinamento com exercícios, enquanto o grupo de controle usou acupuntura e moxabustão. O mesmo grupo de médicos realizou o tratamento de acupuntura e moxabustão de acordo com a situação real dos pacientes, e testaram as alterações do escore de dor VAS e do escore de dor PRI. Resultados: A pontuação de dor VAS no grupo experimental foi de 7,88 pontos antes do procedimento e 2,96 pontos após a sexta semana de procedimento. A pontuação do grupo de controle foi 7,67 antes do início e 5,03 após o treinamento. A pontuação total de dor PRI no grupo experimental foi 6,52 pontos antes do treinamento e 2,05 pontos na sexta semana de treinamento. A pontuação do grupo de controle foi de 6,66 antes do procedimento e 3,89 na sexta semana. Conclusão: A combinação do treinamento com exercícios pode alcançar um melhor efeito de reabilitação em comparação com o tratamento isolado de acupuntura e moxabustão. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: La fatiga muscular molesta a los deportistas, ya que afecta al nivel de entrenamiento y al rendimiento competitivo, además de tener un gran impacto en la salud física de los atletas, predisponiendo a accidentes y al cese prematuro de la carrera. En la actualidad, el alivio de la fatiga deportiva es objeto de investigación en el campo de la salud deportiva. Objetivo: Estudiar el efecto de la rehabilitación mediante acupuntura y moxibustión combinada con entrenamiento físico sobre la fatiga deportiva. Métodos: Se utilizó un experimento controlado. El grupo experimental utilizó acupuntura y moxibustión combinadas con entrenamiento físico, mientras que el grupo de control utilizó acupuntura y moxibustión. El mismo grupo de médicos realizó el tratamiento de acupuntura y moxibustión de acuerdo con la situación real de los pacientes, y comprobó los cambios en la puntuación del dolor según VAS y la puntuación del dolor según PRI. Resultados: La puntuación VAS del dolor en el grupo experimental fue de 7,88 puntos antes del procedimiento y de 2,96 puntos después de la sexta semana del procedimiento. La puntuación del grupo de control fue de 7,67 antes del inicio y de 5,03 después del entrenamiento. La puntuación total del dolor PRI en el grupo experimental fue de 6,52 puntos antes del entrenamiento y de 2,05 puntos en la sexta semana de entrenamiento. La puntuación del grupo de control era de 6,66 antes del procedimiento y de 3,89 a la sexta semana. Conclusión: La combinación de entrenamiento con ejercicios puede lograr un mejor efecto rehabilitador en comparación con el tratamiento aislado de acupuntura y moxibustión. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Eficácia de um protocolo de laseracupuntura sobre a fadiga e alterações respiratórias pós- covid-19: estudo quase experimental / Effectiveness of a laseracupuncture protocol on post- covid-19 fatigue and lung capacity: a quasi-experimental study / Eficacia de un protocolo de laseracupuntura sobre cambios respiratorios de la fatiga y poscovida-19: estudio casi experimental

Objetivo: Estudo quase experimental aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisas com Seres Humanos ­ COPEP da Universidade Estadual de Maringá, sob Parecer nº. 5.262.784, cujo objetivo foi avaliar a segurança e eficácia da laseracupuntura como uma abordagem terapêutica complementar no tratamento da fadiga e capacidade pulmonar em pacientes pós-COVID. Materiais e método: Nos meses de fevereiro e maço de 2023, no ambulatório de enfermagem da Universidade Estadual do Paraná, Campus de Paranavaí, foram recrutados 23 pacientes da comunidade acadêmica (discentes, docentes e agentes universitários) da própria universidade, com idade mediana de 24 anos (IQR = 22,0, 32,0), com diagnóstico prévio de COVID-19 e que apresentavam sintomas de fadiga e queixa de desconforto respiratório por pelo menos quatro semanas após a recuperação da fase aguda da doença. Dados demográficos, socioeconômicos e de estado de saúde geral e relacionados à COVID-19 foram coletados. Os pacientes foram tratados com duas sessões semanais de laseracupuntura por um período de cinco semanas. Para identificação da presença e intensidade da fadiga, foi aplicada a Escala de Fadiga de Piper Revisada com 23 itens e dividida em três dimensões, no início e final do tratamento e realizados testes de função pulmonar por espirometria para descrição do padrão ventilatório dos voluntários, em todas as sessões. Resultados: Participaram 23 voluntários com idade mediana de 24 anos (IQR, 22-32) e predominantemente do sexo feminino (N= 15 [65%]) e da cor branca (N = 13 [56,4%]). A maioria dos voluntários tinha sobrepeso ou obesidade (N = 16 [79,6%]). Após a fase aguda da COVID-19, os sintomas mais relatados foram ansiedade (65%), queda de cabelo (35%) e dor de cabeça (30%). Todos os participantes apresentaram fadiga intensa pós-COVID (6,36 [IQR = 6,00 ­ 7,73]). Os resultados do estudo mostraram que o tratamento com a laseracupuntura resultou em redução significativa nas pontuações da escala de fadiga quanto à Dimensão comportamental (Diferença média [DM] = -1,65; IC 95%; 0,56-2,75; p < 0,001) Dimensão afetiva (DM = -2,43; IC 95%; 1,33-3,52; p < 0,001) e Dimensão sensorial (DM= -2,85; IC 95%; 2,08-3,63; p < 0,001), além do total geral de fadiga (-2,44; IC 95%; 1,63-3,24; p < 0,001), mas não apresentou qualquer efeito nas medidas de função pulmonar como Capacidade Vital Forçada (DM = -0,87; IC 95%; -4,24, 5,98); p = 0,727), manobra básica avaliada em espirometria e relação entre Volume expiratório forçado em 1 segundo (VEF1) e Capacidade vital forçada (CVF), o VEF1/CVF (DM = -1,00; IC 95%; -10,38-8,39; p = 0,828). Nenhum efeito colateral foi relatado durante o tratamento. Conclusão: O protocolo de laseracupuntura foi seguro e bem tolerado pelos pacientes, sem efeitos colaterais relatados durante o tratamento, sugerindo que a laseracupuntura pode ser uma opção segura para o tratamento da fadiga pós-COVID-19. Apesar da intervenção não ter provocado efeito nos padrões respiratórios dos voluntários, estes verbalizaram melhora da expansibilidade e dor torácica, aumento do fôlego e disposição. Sugere-se novos estudos controlados para melhor compreensão do manejo dos sintomas pós-agudos da COVID-19.

Objective: Quasi-experimental study approved by the Ethics Committee for Research with Human Beings ­ COPEP of the State University of Maringá, Opinion nº. 5,262,784, whose objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of laser acupuncture as a complementary therapeutic approach in the treatment of fatigue and lung capacity in post-COVID patients. Materials and method: In February and March 2023, at the nursing clinic of the State University of Paraná, Campus Paranavaí, 23 patients were recruited from the academic community (students, professors and university agents) of the university itself, with a median age of 24 years old (IQR = 22.0, 32.0), with a previous diagnosis of COVID-19 and who had symptoms of fatigue and a complaint of respiratory distress for at least four weeks after recovery from the acute phase of the disease. Demographic, socioeconomic, and general health and COVID-19 related data were collected. The patients were treated with two laseracupuncture sessions per week for a period of five weeks. To identify the presence and intensity of fatigue, the Revised Piper Fatigue Scale was applied, with 23 items and divided into three dimensions, at the beginning and end of treatment, and pulmonary function tests were performed by spirometry to describe the ventilatory pattern of the volunteers, in all sessions. Results: Participants were 23 volunteers with a median age of 24 years (IQR, 22-32) and predominantly female (N = 15 [65%]) and Caucasian (N = 13 [56.4%]). Most volunteers were overweight or obese (N = 16 [79.6%]). After the acute phase of COVID-19, the most reported symptoms were anxiety (65%), hair loss (35%) and headache (30%). All participants experienced severe post-COVID fatigue (6.36 [IQR = 6.00 ­ 7.73]). The results of the study showed that treatment with laser acupuncture resulted in a significant reduction in scores on the fatigue scale for the Behavioral Dimension (Mean difference [MD] = -1.65; CI 95%; 0.56-2.75; p < 0.001) Affective dimension (DM = -2.43; CI 95%; 1.33-3.52; p < 0.001) and Sensory dimension (DM = -2.85; CI 95%; 2.08-3, 63; p <0.001), in addition to the fatigue grand total (-2.44; 95% CI; 1.63-3.24; p < 0.001), but had no effect on measures of lung function such as Forced Vital Capacity (MD = -0.87; 95% CI; -4.24, 5.98); p = 0.727), basic maneuver evaluated in spirometry and ratio between Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1) and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC (DM = -1.00; CI 95%; -10.38 -8.39; p = 0.828). No side effects were reported during treatment. Conclusion: The laseracupuncture protocol was safe and well tolerated by patients, with no reported side effects during treatment, suggesting that laseracupuncture may be a safe option for treating post-COVID-19 fatigue. Although the intervention had no effect on the breathing patterns of the volunteers, they reported improvement in chest expansion and pain, increased breath and disposition. New controlled studies are suggested to better understand the management of post-acute symptoms of COVID-19.

Objetivo: Estudio casi experimental aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación con Seres Humanos - COPEP de la Universidad Estatal de Maringá, con arreglo a la Opinión No. 5,262,784, cuyo objetivo fue evaluar la seguridad y eficacia de la laseracupuntura como enfoque terapéutico complementario en el tratamiento de la fatiga y la capacidad pulmonar en pacientes post-COVID. Materiales y método: En los meses de febrero y marzo de 2023, en la clínica de enfermería de la Universidad Estatal de Paraná, Campus de Paranavaí, se reclutaron 23 pacientes de la comunidad académica (estudiantes, profesores y agentes universitarios) de la propia universidad, con una edad media de 24 años (IQR = 22,0, 32,0), con diagnóstico COVID y que muestren síntomas de fatiga y una queja de molestias respiratorias durante al menos cuatro semanas después de la recuperación de la fase aguda de la enfermedad. Se han recopilado datos demográficos, socioeconómicos y de salud general relacionados con el programa COVID-19. Los pacientes fueron tratados con dos sesiones de laseracupuntura por semana durante cinco semanas. Para la identificación de la presencia y la intensidad de la fatiga, se revisó la escala de fatiga de los piper con 23 elementos y se dividió en tres dimensiones, al inicio y al final del tratamiento, y se realizaron pruebas de función pulmonar mediante espirometría para describir el patrón de ventilación de los voluntarios, en todas las sesiones. Resultados: participaron 23 voluntarios con una edad media de 24 años (RCI, 22-32) y predominantemente mujeres (N = 15 [65%]) y blancas (N = 13 [56,4%]). La mayoría de los voluntarios presentaron sobrepeso u obesidad (N = 16 [79,6%]). Después de la fase aguda de COVID-19, los síntomas notificados más frecuentemente fueron ansiedad (65%), pérdida de pelo (35%) y dolor de cabeza (30%). Todos los participantes presentaron fatiga grave post-COVID (6,36 [IQR = 6,00 - 7,73]). Los resultados del estudio mostraron que el tratamiento con laseracupuntura dio lugar a una reducción significativa de las puntuaciones de la escala de fatiga para la dimensión conductual (Diferencia media [DM] = -1,65; IC del 95%; IC del 0,56-2,75; p < 0,001) La dimensión afectiva (DM = -2,43; IC del 95%: 1; 33-3,52; p < 0,001) y dimensión sensorial (DM = -2,85; IC del 95% 2,08-3,63; p < 0,001), además de la fatiga general (-2,44; IC del 95%: 1,63-3,24; p < 0,0 01), pero no tuvo efecto sobre las medidas de función pulmonar como capacidad vital forzada (DM = -0,87; IC del 95%; -4,24,5,98); p = 0,727), maniobra basal evaluada en espirometría y relación entre el volumen respiratorio forzado 1 segundo (VEF1) y la capacidad viciosa forzada (CVF), EF1/CVF (DM = -1,00; IC del 95%; -10,38-8,39; p = 0,828). No se notificaron efectos adversos durante el tratamiento. Conclusión: El protocolo de laseracupuntura fue seguro y bien tolerado por los pacientes, sin efectos secundarios notificados durante el tratamiento, lo que sugiere que la laseracupuntura puede ser una opción segura para el tratamiento de la fatiga post-COVID-19. Aunque la intervención no tuvo efecto sobre los patrones respiratorios de los voluntarios, verbalizaron mejoría en la capacidad de expansión y dolor torácico, dificultad respiratoria y disposición. Se sugieren nuevos estudios controlados para entender mejor el manejo de los síntomas post-agudos de COVID-19.

Laseracupuntura para o tratamento da ansiedade e depressão na síndrome pós-covid-19: resultados promissores de um estudo quase-experimental / Laseracupuncture for the treatment of anxiety and depression in post-covid-19 syndrome: promising results from a quasi-experimental study / Laseracupuntura para el tratamiento de la ansiedad y la depresión en el síndrome post-covid-19: resultados prometedores de un estudio quasi-experimental

A pandemia da COVID-19, provocou um grande impacto na saúde mental das pessoas, mesmo após a fase aguda da doença, resultando em altas taxas de ansiedade e depressão, tornando necessário o desenvolvimento e a avaliação de tratamentos, não farmacológicos, eficazes para aliviar esses sintomas. Este estudo quase-experimental, aberto, unicêntrico, realizado nos meses de fevereiro e março de 2023, no ambulatório de enfermagem da Universidade Estadual do Paraná, campus de Paranavaí, teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia da Laseracupuntura, para o tratamento de ansiedade e depressão, na Síndrome Pós-COVID-19. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética (Parecer nº. 5.262.784). Foram coletados dados demográficos, socioeconômicos e de estado de saúde. A presença e a intensidade de ansiedade e depressão foram verificadas no início e, ao final, do tratamento, por meio do Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck (21 itens) e Inventário de Depressão de Beck (21 itens). Ao todo, 23 voluntários receberam até 10 sessões, de um protocolo de Laseracupuntura, para tratar ansiedade e depressão pós-COVID-19. Os pontos P1, PC6, E36, E25, VC6, VC12, VC17 e Yintang, foram estimulados por luz de laser infravermelho sobre a pele. Os participantes eram predominantemente, mulheres, de raça/cor branca e tinham sobrepeso ou obesidade. Os sintomas pós-agudos da COVID-19, mais relatados, foram: ansiedade, queda de cabelo e dor de cabeça. A mediana inicial de pontuação das escalas de ansiedade e depressão foram de 23,00 (IQR, 13,50 ­ 27,50) e 22,00 (IQR, 11,50 ­ 26,50), respectivamente. A intervenção resultou em reduções significativas, nas pontuações de duas escalas: de ansiedade (DM = -9,74; IC 95%, 4,88 ­ 14,60; p < 0,001) e depressão (DM = -9,87; IC 95%; 5,53 ­ 14,21; p < 0,001). Nenhum efeito colateral foi relatado durante o tratamento. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo, sugerem que, a Laseracupuntura pode ser uma terapia eficaz e segura para tratar sintomas de ansiedade e depressão em pacientes pós-COVID-19. Além disso, o uso da laseracupuntura, tem a vantagem adicional de ser menos invasiva que a Acupuntura tradicional, tornando-a uma opção atraente para pessoas que buscam tratamentos integrativos para saúde mental, sem os riscos presentes em terapias medicamentosas tradicionais. Recomenda-se a realização de mais estudos ­ principalmente ensaios clínicos randomizados ­, para confirmar a eficácia da Laseracupuntura.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on people's mental health even after the acute phase of the disease, resulting in high rates of anxiety and depression, making it necessary to develop and evaluate treatments, non- pharmacological, effective to alleviate these symptoms. This quasi-experimental, open- label, unicentric study, conducted in February and March 2023, at the nursing outpatient clinic at Paraná State University, Paranavaí campus, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Laseracupuncture, for the treatment of anxiety and depression, in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee (Opinion No. 5 262 784). Demographic, socioeconomic and health status data were collected. The presence and intensity of anxiety and depression were verified at the beginning and at the end of the treatment, through the Beck Anxiety Inventory (21 items) and Beck Depression Inventory (21 items). In all, 23 volunteers received up to 10 sessions of a Laseracupuncture protocol to treat post-COVID-19 anxiety and depression. The points P1, PC6, E36, E25, VC6, VC12, VC17 and Yintang, were stimulated by infrared laser light on the skin. Participants were predominantly women of white race/color and were overweight or obese. The most reported post-acute symptoms of COVID-19 were: anxiety, hair loss, and headache. The median baseline scores for the anxiety and depression scales were 23.00 (IQR, 13.50 - 27.50) and 22.00 (IQR, 11.50 - 26.50), respectively. The intervention resulted in significant reductions in the scores of two scales: anxiety (DM = -9.74; 95% CI, 4.88 - 14.60; p < 0.001) and depression (DM = -9.87; 95% CI; 5.53 - 14.21; p < 0.001). No side effects were reported during treatment. Results obtained in this study suggest that Laseracupuncture may be an effective and safe therapy for treating symptoms of anxiety and depression in post-COVID-19 patients. In addition, the use of laseracupuncture has the additional advantage of being less invasive than traditional Acupuncture, making it an attractive option for people seeking integrative treatments for mental health, without the risks present in traditional drug therapies. Further studies - mainly randomized clinical trials - are recommended to confirm the efficacy of Laseracupuncture.

La pandemia COVID-19 ha tenido un gran impacto en la salud mental de las personas, incluso después de la fase aguda de la enfermedad, dando lugar a altas tasas de ansiedad y depresión, lo que hace necesario desarrollar y evaluar tratamientos no farmacológicos eficaces para el alivio de estos síntomas. Este estudio casi experimental, abierto y unicéntrico, realizado en los meses de febrero y marzo de 2023 en la clínica de enfermería de la Universidad Estatal de Paraná, campus Paranavaí, tuvo como objetivo evaluar la eficacia de la Laseracupuntura, para el tratamiento de la ansiedad y la depresión, en el Síndrome Post-COVID-19. El estudio fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética (Opinión No. 5 262 784) Se han reunido datos demográficos, socioeconómicos y de salud. La presencia y la intensidad de la ansiedad y la depresión se verificaron al principio y al final del tratamiento, mediante el Inventario de ansiedad Beck (21 artículos) y el Inventario de depresión Beck (21 artículos). En total, 23 voluntarios recibieron hasta 10 sesiones, de un protocolo de Laseracupuntura, para tratar la ansiedad y la depresión post- COVID-19. Los puntos P1, PC6, E36, E25, VC6, VC12, VC17 y Yintang fueron estimulados por luz láser infrarroja en la piel. Los participantes fueron predominantemente mujeres blancas/de raza y tenían sobrepeso u obesidad. Los síntomas post-agudos más frecuentemente notificados de COVID-19 fueron ansiedad, pérdida de pelo y dolor de cabeza. La mediana inicial de la puntuación de ansiedad y depresión osciló entre 23,00 (RPI, 13,50 - 27,50) y 22,00 (RI, 11,50 - 26,50), respectivamente. La intervención dio lugar a reducciones significativas en las puntuaciones de dos escalas: ansiedad (DM = -9,74; IC del 95%, 4,88 - 14,60; p < 0,001) y depresión (DM = -9,87; IC del 95%; IC del 5,53 al 14,21; p < 0,00 1. No se notificaron efectos adversos durante el tratamiento. Los resultados de este estudio sugieren que Laseracupuntura puede ser una terapia eficaz y segura para tratar los síntomas de ansiedad y depresión en pacientes post- COVID-19. Además, el uso de laseracupuntura tiene la ventaja adicional de ser menos invasiva que la acupuntura tradicional, lo que la convierte en una opción atractiva para las personas que buscan tratamiento integrador para la salud mental, sin los riesgos presentes en los medicamentos tradicionales. Se recomiendan otros estudios, principalmente ensayos clínicos aleatorizados, para confirmar la eficacia de Laseracupuntura.

Acupuncture Combined with Auricular Acupoints Patches for Moderate to Severe Nicotine Dependence：a Randomized Controlled Study / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo compare the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with auricular acupoints patches and nicotine transdermal patch in treating moderate to severe nicotine dependence. MethodsIn a rando-mized controlled trial， 64 quit smoking voluntary subjects with moderate to severe nicotine dependence were randomly divided at a ratio of 1∶1 into a treatment group and a control group， with 32 cases in each group. The treatment group was given acupuncture combined with auricular acupoints patches， twice weekly， four weeks as a course for two courses. The control group was given nicotine transdermal patch， one patch per day for 24 hours， 8 weeks. The cure rate was assessed after treatment and at follow-up （the 16th week after treatment）.The daily smoking volume， exhaled carbon monoxide （CO） value， Nicotine Dependence Scale （FTND）， Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms Scale （MNWS）， and Pittsburgh Sleepiness Index Inventory （PSQI） were evaluated before and after treatment and at follow-up， and adverse effects were recorded. ResultsIn terms of the cure rate， there were both six cured cases （20%） after treatment and at follow-up in the treatment group， while in the control group， seven （23.3%） and five （16.7%） patients were cured after treatment and at follow-up， respectively， with no statistically significant differences between the two groups both after treatment and at follow-up （P＞0.05）. The daily smoking volume and exhaled CO value significantly decreased after treatment and at follow-up in both groups （P＜0.05）， but were not significantly different between the groups after treatment and at follow-up （P＞0.05）. After treatment and at follow-up， FTND， MNWS， and PSQI scores were significantly reduced in both groups compared with those before treatment （P＜0.05）. There was no statistically significant difference in the FTND scale scores between the two groups after treatment and at follow-up （P＞0.05）， while the MNWS and PSQI scale scores were lower in the treatment group than in the control group （P＜0.05）. ConclusionAcupuncture combined with auricular acupoint patches for moderate to severe nicotine dependence has comparable effect with the first-line drug nicotine patch in terms of increasing the cure rate and decreasing the degree of nicotine dependence， and is superior to nicotine patch in terms of relieving withdrawal symptoms and improving sleep， with stable long-term effect.

Clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of piriformis syndrome / 中国基层医药

Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of piriformis syndrome.Methods:Eighty patients with piriformis syndrome who received treatment in Huaihe Energy Occupational Disease Prevention Hospital Rehabilitation Medicine Center from February 2021 to December 2022 were included in this study. They were divided into a treatment group ( n = 40) and a control group ( n = 40) according to different treatment methods using a retrospective cohort study design. The treatment group was treated with acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy, once every 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks. The control group was treated with extracorporeal shock wave therapy alone once every 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks.Pre- and post-treatment visual analogue scale scores and clinical efficacy were compared between the two groups. Results:There was no significant difference in baseline data between the two groups (all P > 0.05). After treatment, the visual analogue scale score decreased in each group. After adjusting for covariates, there was no significant difference in visual analogue scale score between the two groups ( F = 112.38, P < 0.001). After adjusting the pre-treatment visual analogue scale score, the post-treatment visual analogue scale score in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group [1.417 (95% CI: 1.151-1.683)]. The total response rate in the treatment group was 97.5% (39/40), which was significantly higher than 82.5% (33/40) in the control group ( Z = -2.03, P = 0.042). Conclusion:Acupuncture combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy is highly effective on piriformis syndrome.

Clinical efficacy of acupoint application therapy combined with pressing needle in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of acupoint application therapy combined with pressing needle therapy in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Methods:Eighty-six patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who received treatment at Lishui Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from February 2022 to August 2022 were retrospectively included in this study. They were randomly divided into Group A ( n = 29), group B ( n = 29), and the combined treatment group ( n = 28) according to different treatment methods. All three groups were treated with conventional Western medicine. Based on this, group A was treated with acupoint application therapy, group B was treated with pressing needle therapy and the combined treatment group with treated with acupoint application therapy and pressing needle therapy. Clinical efficacy was compared among the three groups. Traditional Chinese medicine symptom score, pulmonary function index, blood gas index, and quality of life score pre- and post-treatment were compared among the three groups. Results:There was a significant difference in total response rate among group A [75.86% (22/29)], group B [79.31% (23/29)], and the combined treatment group [96.43% (27/28), H = 6.15, P < 0.05]. After treatment, the scores of cough, expectoration, and dyspnea in the three groups were significantly decreased compared with those before treatment (all P < 0.05). After treatment, the scores of cough, expectoration, and dyspnea in the combined treatment group were (1.79 ± 0.48) points, (2.30 ± 0.32) points, and (1.96 ± 0.43) points, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in (2.32 ± 0.41) points, (2.68 ± 0.42) points, and (2.27 ± 0.36) points in group A and (2.17 ± 0.50) points, (2.91 ± 0.43) points, and (2.33 ± 0.43) points in group B ( F = 9.81, 17.38, 6.72, all P < 0.05). After treatment, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV 1), and FEV 1/FVC were increased in each group compared with those before treatment (all P < 0.05). After treatment, FVC, FEV 1, and FEV 1/FVC in the combined treatment group were (3.95 ± 0.47) L, (2.01 ± 0.36) L, and (82.91 ± 13.35)%, respectively, which were significantly higher than (3.63 ± 0.59) L, (1.76 ± 0.21) L, and (73.23 ± 10.85)% in group A and (3.89 ± 0.38) L, (1.64 ± 0.37) L and (73.91 ± 7.62)% in group B ( F = 3.49, 9.80, 7.05, all P < 0.05). After treatment, blood gas indicators in each group were significantly increased compared with those before treatment (all P < 0.05). After treatment, blood oxygen partial pressure in the combined treatment group, group A and group B was (85.76 ± 3.21) mmHg, (81.05 ± 4.23) mmHg, and (80.62 ± 4.03) mmHg, respectively. The partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the three groups was (37.74 ± 5.88) mmHg, (44.32 ± 5.59) mmHg, and (43.22 ± 6.41) mmHg, respectively. There were significant differences in blood oxygen partial pressure and partial pressure of carbon dioxide among the three groups ( F = 15.50, 9.88, all P < 0.05). After treatment, the quality of life score in each group was significantly increased compared with that before treatment (all P < 0.05). After treatment, the quality of life score in the combined treatment group, group B, and group A was (43.97 ± 6.34) points, (39.16 ± 4.45) points, and (40.19 ± 4.67) points, respectively, and there was significant difference among the three groups ( F = 4.12, P < 0.001). Conclusion:In the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acupoint application therapy combined with pressing needle therapy is highly effective than monotherapy. The combined therapy can better improve traditional Chinese medicine symptoms and blood gas indicators, effectively enhance pulmonary function, and improve quality of life than monotherapy.

Therapeutic effects of Tongdu Qishen acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine decoction on post-stroke depression in 31 patients / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical effects of Tongdu Qishen acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine decoction on post-stroke depression in patients. Methods:Sixty-two patients with post-stroke depression who received treatment in Zhongda Hospital of Southeast University from October 2020 to April 2022 were included in this study. They were randomly treated either with traditional Chinese medicine decoction (control group, n = 31) or Tongdu Qishen acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine decoction (combined group, n = 31) based on routine medication. All patients were treated for 4 weeks. Depressive state, neurological function, and activities of daily living were compared between the two groups. Results:Before treatment, there were no significant differences in the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and Barthel index between the two groups (all P > 0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, the HAMD and NIHSS scores in the control group were (13.88 ± 3.92) points and (8.56 ± 1.82) points, respectively, and they were (8.72 ± 2.48) points and (6.67 ± 1.14) points in the combined group. There were significant differences in HAMD and NIHSS scores between the two groups ( t = 2.14, 2.43, both P < 0.05). The Barthel index in the combined group was (69.53 ± 13.29) points, which was significantly higher than (62.34 ± 15.67) points in the control group ( t = 2.23, P < 0.05). Conclusion:Tongdu Qishen acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine decoction can reduce depressive symptoms and improve neurological function and activities of daily living in patients with post-stroke depression. The combined therapy has obvious efficacy in the treatment of post-stroke depression.