Observation on the therapeutic effect of laser acupuncture combined with Schroth therapy on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Objective: To explore the clinical effect of laser acupuncture combined with Schroth therapy on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Method: This was a retrospective study. Eighty AIS patients were admitted to The Second People's Hospital of Dalian from March 2021 to March 2022 and divided into control group and experimental group according to the treatment method, with 40 cases in each group. The control group received Schroth therapy, and the experimental group received Schroth therapy and laser acupuncture therapy (MLS® laser). All treatments are performed five times a week for four consecutive weeks we compared the clinical effects of the two groups before treatment, six months and 12 months after treatment, and compared the improvement of Cobb angle, axial trunk rotation (ATR), musculoskeletal stiffness(The PulStarG3 system), and gait evaluation (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System(MEMS) between the two groups of patients. Result: After four weeks of treatment, the spinal condition of both groups of patients improved. After treatment, the experimental group showed greater improvement in Cobb angle, ATR, spinal range of motion, gait parameters, and clinical efficacy compared to the control group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Laser acupuncture combined with Schroth therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of AIS, and is more effective in correcting scoliosis and related problems of AIS.

Effect of combining batroxobin with acupuncture treatment on hearing recovery in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

BACKGROUND: The effect of batroxobin on hearing recovery in patients with Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) is still controversial, and acupuncture shows auxiliary benefits for SSNHL. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effectiveness of combining acupuncture with batroxobin therapy for patients with SSNHL. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred and fifty-six patients with SSNHL were retrospectively enrolled in this study, and categorized into the control group (only batroxobin treatment) and observation group (batroxobin and acupuncture treatment). Pure Tone Audiograms (PTA) threshold and clinical outcomes of hearing recovery were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between hearing recovery and potential risk factors. RESULTS: Compared to the control group, the observation group had a higher overall effective rate (p = 0.006) and improvement in PTA threshold (p = 0.007). Among SSNHL patients with high-frequency and flat-type hearing loss, observation group demonstrated superior hearing recovery post-treatment compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, hearing recovery in patient with SSNHL were associated with SSNHL types, disease duration, neutrophil count and acupuncture (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE: Combining batroxobin and acupuncture treatments enhences the improvement of hearing recovery in SSNHL patients compared to only batroxobin treatments, especially high-frequency and flat-type hearing loss.

Effects of acupuncture on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: Current status and future perspectives.

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a critical component of the neuroendocrine system, playing a central role in regulating the body's stress response and modulating various physiological processes. Dysregulation of HPA axis function disrupts the neuroendocrine equilibrium, resulting in impaired physiological functions. Acupuncture is recognized as a non-pharmacological type of therapy which has been confirmed to play an important role in modulating the HPA axis and thus favorably targets diseases with abnormal activation of the HPA axis. With numerous studies reporting the promising efficacy of acupuncture for neuroendocrine disorders, a comprehensive review in terms of the underlying molecular mechanism for acupuncture, especially in regulating the HPA axis, is currently in need. This review fills the need and summarizes recent breakthroughs, from the basic principles and the pathological changes of HPA axis dysfunction, to the molecular mechanisms by which acupuncture regulates the HPA axis. These mechanisms include the modulation of multiple neurotransmitters and their receptors, neuropeptides and their receptors, and microRNAs in the paraventricular nucleus, hippocampus, amygdala and pituitary gland, which alleviate the hyperfunctioning of the HPA axis. This review comprehensively summarizes the mechanism of acupuncture in regulating HPA axis dysfunction for the first time, providing new targets and prospects for further exploration of acupuncture. Please cite this article as: Zheng JY, Zhu J, Wang Y, Tian ZZ. Effects of acupuncture on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: Current status and future perspectives. J Integr Med. 2024; Epub ahead of print.

Dysrhythmic saliva microbiota in mobile phone addicts with sleep disorders and restored by acupuncture.

Background: Mobile phone addiction (MPA) greatly affects the biological clock and sleep quality and is emerging as a behavioral disorder. The saliva microbiota has been linked to circadian rhythms, and our previous research revealed dysrhythmic saliva metabolites in MPA subjects with sleep disorders (MPASD). In addition, acupuncture had positive effects. However, the dysbiotic saliva microbiota in MPASD patients and the restorative effects of acupuncture are unclear. Objectives: To probe the circadian dysrhythmic characteristics of the saliva microbiota and acupunctural restoration in MPASD patients. Methods: MPASD patients and healthy volunteers were recruited by the Mobile Phone Addiction Tendency Scale (MPATS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Saliva samples were collected every 4 h for 72 h. After saliva sampling, six MPDSD subjects (group M) were acupuncturally treated (group T), and subsequent saliva sampling was conducted posttreatment. Finally, all the samples were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Results: Significantly increased MPATS and PSQI scores were observed in MPDSD patients (p< 0.01), but these scores decreased (p<0.001) after acupuncture intervention. Compared with those in healthy controls, the diversity and structure of the saliva microbiota in MPASD patients were markedly disrupted. Six genera with circadian rhythms were detected in all groups, including Sulfurovum, Peptostreptococcus, Porphyromonas and Prevotella. There were five genera with circadian rhythmicity in healthy people, of which the rhythmicities of the genera Rothia and Lautropia disappeared in MPASD patients but effectively resumed after acupuncture intervention. Conclusions: This work revealed dysrhythmic salivary microbes in MPASD patients, and acupuncture, as a potential intervention, could be effective in mitigating this ever-rising behavioral epidemic.

Scalp acupuncture guidance for identifying the optimal site for transcranial electrical stimulation of the hand.

Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) often targets the EEG-guided C3/C4 area that may not accurately represent M1 for hand muscles. This study aimed to determine if the neuroanatomy-based scalp acupuncture-guided site (AC) was a more effective spot than the C3 site for neuromodulation. Fifteen healthy subjects received one 20-minute session of high-definition transcranial alternating current stimulation (HD-tACS) intervention (20 Hz at 2 mA) at the AC or C3 sites randomly with a 1-week washout period. Subjects performed ball-squeezing exercises with the dominant hand during the HD-tACS intervention. The AC site was indiscernible from the finger flexor hotspot detected by TMS. At the baseline, the MEP amplitude from finger flexors was greater with less variability at the AC site than at the C3 site. HD-tACS intervention at the AC site significantly increased the MEP amplitude. However, no significant changes were observed after tACS was applied to the C3 site. Our results provide evidence that HD-tACS at the AC site produces better neuromodulation effects on the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscle compared to the C3 site. The AC localization approach can be used for future tES studies.

[Effects of "brain-gut coherence" method of acupuncture on motor function and intestinal microflora in the patients with cerebral ischemic stroke].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical effect of "brain-gut coherence" method of acupuncture on cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS) and explore its action mechanism. METHODS: A total of 82 patients with CIS were randomly divided into an observation group (41 cases, 3 cases dropped out, 2 cases discontinued) and a control group (41 cases, 4 cases dropped out, 2 cases excluded). The conventional basic treatment was administered in the two groups. Additionally, in the observation group, "brain-gut coherence" method of acupuncture was delivered. The stimulating points included the parietal and temporal anterior oblique line on the affected side, Zhongwan (CV 12), Guanyuan (CV 4), and bilateral Tianshu (ST 25), Zusanli (ST 36), Shangjuxu (ST 37) and Xiajuxu (ST 39). In the control group, the routine acupuncture was operated at Baihui (GV 20), Yintang (GV 24+), bilateral Fengchi (GB 20) and Zusanli (ST 36), and Hegu (LI 4), Jianyu (LI 15), Quchi (LI 11), Waiguan (TE 5), Futu (ST 32), Sanyinjiao (SP 6) and Taichong (LR 3) on the affected side. Acupuncture stimulation lasted 30 min each time, once daily, and for 5 days a week. The intervention for 4 weeks was required. The scores of Fugl-Meyer assessment scale (FMA), Berg balance scale (BBS) and the modified Barthel index (MBI), as well as the score of gastrointestinal symptoms were compared before and after treatment in the two groups. The neutrophil count (NUE) and the content of the serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were detected before and after treatment in the two groups. Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the structure and relative abundance of intestinal microflora was detected before and after treatment; and with the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) adopted, the levels of intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (iFABP), D-lactate (D-LA), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1ß and IL-6 in the serum were detected before and after treatment in the two groups. RESULTS: After treatment, the scores of FMA, BBS and MBI were increased (P<0.05), and the scores of gastrointestinal symptoms were decreased (P<0.05) compared with those before treatment in the two groups. Compared with the control group, the scores of FMA, BBS and MBI were higher (P<0.05) and the score of gastrointestinal symptoms was lower (P<0.05) in the observation group after treatment. NEU and the content of serum NT-proBNP were reduced in the two groups (P<0.05), and the content of serum NT-proBNP in the observation group was lower than that of the control group (P<0.05) after treatment. Chao1, Ace, Sobs and Shannon indexes were increased after treatment compared with those before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05); and these indexes in the observation group were higher when compared with the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the relative abundance of Bacteroidaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Oscillospiraceae, Streptococcaceae and Sutterellaceae was reduced in comparison with that before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05); and the relative abundance of these microflora was lower in the observation group when compared with the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Bifidobacteriaceae and Coriobacteriaceae was increased in comparison with that before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05); and the relative abundance of these microflora was elevated in the observation group when compared with the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the levels of iFABP, D-LA, LPS, LBP, TNF-α, IL-1ß and IL-6 were reduced when compared with those before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), and these levels of the observation group were lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: "Brain-gut coherence" method of acupuncture can improve the motor function and gastrointestinal function of the patients with cerebral ischemic stroke, which may be related to modulating the structure of intestinal microflora, alleviating inflammatory reactions and accelerating the intestinal barrier repair.

[Building a comprehensive acupuncture clinical intervention system from individualized diagnosis and treatment to systematic design: reflections based on the modern rehabilitation treatment model].

The acupuncture clinical practice system is presenting a diversity of intervention methods and intervention concepts as modern technological civilization progresses. Therefore, it is of practical significance to construct a comprehensive acupuncture clinical intervention system and to scientifically design and implement the intervention system. This article aims to combine the current development status of rehabilitation treatment models, starting from the perspective of systems theory, to explore the importance of constructing a comprehensive acupuncture intervention system and its implementation strategies, providing new ideas and directions for the modern development of acupuncture clinical practice.

[Effect of interactive scalp acupuncture on upper limb function in patients with hemiplegia after stroke].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical effect of interactive scalp acupuncture combined with task-oriented mirror therapy on hemiplegia after stroke. METHODS: A total of 86 patients with hemiplegia after stroke were randomly divided into an observation group (43 cases, 2 cases dropped out) and a control group (43 cases, 2 cases dropped out). Both groups received routine treatment and rehabilitation treatment for stroke. The control group was treated with task-oriented mirror therapy, 40 min each time, once a day, 6 days a week. The observation group was treated with interactive scalp acupuncture at ipsilateral upper 1/5 and 2/5 of the parietal and temporal anterior oblique line and upper 1/5 and 2/5 of the parietal and temporal posterior oblique line on the basis of the treatment as the control group, 45 min each time, once a day, 6 days a week. Both groups were treated for 4 weeks. Before and after treatment and in follow-up of 8 weeks after treatment completion, the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) score, modified Ashworth scale (MAS) score, shoulder abduction angle, wrist dorsiflexion angle and N20 latency and amplitude of somatosensory evoked potential were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: After treatment and in follow-up, the FMA scores were increased (P<0.01), the MAS scores were decreased (P<0.01) compared with those before treatment in the two groups; the FMA scores in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.01), the MAS scores were lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). After treatment and in follow-up, the shoulder abduction angle and wrist dorsiflexion angle was increased (P<0.01), the N20 latency was shortened and amplitude was increased (P<0.01) compared with that before treatment in both groups; the shoulder abduction angle and wrist dorsiflexion angle in the observation group was greater than that in the control group (P<0.01), the N20 latency was shorter than that in the control group (P<0.01), and the N20 amplitude was higher than that in the control group (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Interactive scalp acupuncture combined with task-oriented mirror therapy can improve upper limb function in patients with hemiplegia after stroke, and reduce the muscular tone of the affected limb.

[Acupuncture combined with repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation for mild to moderate post-stroke depression: a randomized controlled trial].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical effect of acupuncture combined with repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for mild to moderate post-stroke depression. METHODS: Ninety patients with mild to moderate post-stroke depression were randomly divided into a combination group (30 cases, 4 cases dropped out), an acupuncture group (30 cases, 3 cases dropped out) and a rTMS group (30 cases, 5 cases dropped out). All the three groups received basic treatment, the combination group was treated with acupuncture combined with rTMS, the acupuncture group was treated with acupuncture, and the rTMS group was treated with rTMS. The acupuncture was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Yintang (GV 24+) , Danzhong (CV 17) and bilateral Shenmen (HT 7), Taichong (LR 3), Neiguan (PC 6). All the three groups were treated once a day, 5 times a week for 4 weeks. The Hamilton depression scale (HAMD-17) score, Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) score and event-related potential were compared among the three groups before and after treatment. RESULTS: After treatment, the HAMD-17 scores and PSQI scores in the three groups were reduced compared with those before treatment (P<0.01) , and the HAMD-17 score and PSQI score in the combination group were lower than those in the acupuncture group and the rTMS group (P<0.05). After treatment, the latency of event-related potential (P300, mismatch negativityï¼»MMNï¼½) in the three groups was shortened compared with that before treatment (P<0.05), and the latency of event-related potential in the combination group was shorter than that in the acupuncture group and the rTMS group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture combined with rTMS can effectively alleviate the depressive state of patients with mild to moderate post-stroke depression, improve the sleep quality and the latency of event-related potential P300 and MMN.

[Clinical effect of acupuncture based on the specific response of jing-well point for intractable insomnia: a randomized controlled trial].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical effect and safety on the basis of detecting the specific response of jing-well point in treatment of intractable insomnia with acupuncture by meridian differentiation. METHODS: Sixty-four patients with intractable insomnia were randomized into an observation group (32 cases, 1 case dropped out and 1 case was eliminated) and a control group (32 cases, 1 case was eliminated). In the observation group, the meridian imbalance value detected at the jing-well point was taken as the evidence so that the corresponding yuan-source and back-shu points were stimulated with acupuncture. In the control group, the routine acupuncture was operated at Baihui (GV 20), Sishencong (EX-HN 1), and bilateral Shenmen (HT 7), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Shenmai (BL 62) and Zhaohai (KI 6). Besides, the detection at jing-well point was performed for blindness in the control group. In the two groups, the interventions were delivered once daily, 5 times a weeks and for consecutive 4 weeks. In the two groups, the scores of Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), insomnia severity index (ISI) and the TCM symptom scale were observed before treatment and after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment; the clinical effect and safety were evaluated after treatment; the changes of meridian imbalance value were observed before and after treatment and the correlation analysis with the total score of PSQI was conducted. RESULTS: After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, except the scores for hypnotic drug in the two groups and sleep disorder after 2 weeks of treatment in the control group, the scores of the other factors and the total scores of PSQI were all reduced when compared with those before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, except the scores for hypnotic drug in the two groups and sleep disorder in the control group, the scores of the other factors and the total scores of PSQI were lower than those after 2 weeks of treatment in the two groups (P<0.05). After 2 weeks of treatment, the scores for time to fall asleep, sleep efficiency and daytime dysfunction in the observation group were lower than those of the control group (P<0.05); and after 4 weeks of treatment, except the scores for sleep disorder and hypnotic drug, the scores of the other factors and the total score of PSQI in the observation group were all lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, ISI scores and the scores of TCM symptom scale decreased when compared with those before treatment (P<0.05), and the scores of these two scales after 4 weeks of treatment were lower than those after 2 weeks of treatment (P<0.05) in the two groups; and the scores in the observation group were lower than thoese in the control group (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 93.3% (28/30) in the observation group, higher than that (90.3% [28/31]) in the control group (P<0.05). Of 64 cases, there was only 1 case of mild hematoma in the control group; and no any other adverse events occurred. Among 64 cases, the meridians, with the imbalance frequency ≥30 times, included the pericardium meridian of hand-jueyin and the heart meridian of hand-shaoyin; those with the imbalance frequency ≥20 times, were the kidney meridian of foot-shaoyin, the triple energizers meridian of hand-shaoyang, the gallbladder meridian of foot-shaoyang, the spleen meridian of foot-taiyin and the stomach meridian of foot-yangming. Except the lung meridian of hand-taiyin in the control group, the imbalance value of each meridian was reduced after treatment (P<0.05, P<0.001, P<0.01), and the meridian imbalance value presented a linear positive correlation with the total score of PSQI in the two groups . CONCLUSION: Meridian differentiation acupuncture based on detecting the specific response of jing-well point can significantly improve the sleep quality and reduce the related symptoms in the patients with intractable insomnia. This therapy promotes the conversion of the meridians from the imbalance to the balance and is satisfactory in its safe operation.

[Clinical effect of the warm acupuncture of Mongolian medicine on insomnia in the elderly and its brain-gut peptide mechanism: a randomized controlled trial].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical effect and safety of the warm acupuncture of Mongolian medicine in treatment of insomnia in the elderly, and to explore its underlying brain-gut peptide mechanism. METHODS: Sixty elderly patients with insomnia were randomly divided into a warm acupuncture group and a western medication group, 30 cases in each group. In the warm acupuncture group, the warm acupuncture of Mongolian medicine was operated at Dinghuixue (at the center of the vertex, the crossing site of the anterior midline and the line connected the upper edges of two ear apexes), Heyixue (at the depression of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra) or Xinxue (at the depression of the spinous process of the 6th thoracic vertebra) in each treatment. Only one of the above points was selected and stimulated for 20 min one treatment and the three points were used alternatively. The treatment was given once every day or every other day, 3 times a week, and for a total of 3 weeks. In the western medication group, estazolam tablets were administered orally, once a day, 1 mg before bedtime, consecutively for 3 weeks. Before and after treatment, as well as in 1-month follow-up visit after the treatment completion, the scores of the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and the insomnia severity index (ISI) were observed in the two groups. The serum brain-related peptide markers (substance P [SP], neuropeptide Y [NPY], 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A [5-HT1A] and 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A [5-HT2A]) were measured before and after treatment, and the clinical efficacy and safety was evaluated in the two groups. RESULTS: After treatment and in follow-up, the scores of sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbance and daytime dysfunction, as well as the total scores of PSQI, and ISI scores were all reduced in the two groups (P<0.05, P<0.01); and the scores in the warm acupuncture group were lower than those of the western medication group (P<0.05, P<0.01). After treatment, the levels of serum SP and 5-HT2A were decreased (P<0.01) and the levels of serum NPY and 5-HT1A were increased (P<0.01) when compared with those before treatment in the two groups. The levels of serum SP and 5-HT2A in the warm acupuncture group were lower than those of the western medication group (P<0.05), and the levels of serum NPY and 5-HT1A were higher than those of the western medication group (P<0.05). After treatment, the total effective rate was 93.3% (28/30) in the warm acupuncture group, which was higher than 83.3% (25/30) of the western medication group (P<0.05). No serious adverse reactions were found in the two groups. CONCLUSION: Warm acupuncture of Mongolian medicine can effectively improve the sleep quality of the elderly patients with insomnia, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of the levels of serum SP, NPY, 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A.

[Discussion on the effects of acupuncture-medication combination].

This article summarizes and discusses the collaborative effects of acupuncture and medication in treatment, including four aspects, named "acupuncture synergizing the effects of medication", "medication advancing the effects of acupuncture", "coordination of acupuncture and medication", and "antagonism of acupuncture and medication". Regarding "acupuncture synergizing the effects of medication", the actions of acupuncture are predominant, which affects the absorption and metabolism of drugs in the body, increases drug concentration in blood, enhances the targeting effect of drugs, guides meridian tropism, alleviates the drug dose and adverse reactions, avoids the first pass effect and accelerates the drug bioavailability. As for "medication advancing the effects of acupuncture", the synergistic effect of acupuncture is obtained by medication, besides, the medication itself may supplement the drug property to the needles during acupuncture pretreatment so as to increase the therapeutic effect. In terms of "coordination of acupuncture and medication", and "antagonism of acupuncture and medication", there are the underlying co-effects of acupuncture and medication in the body, and the action targets may be same or different between them, thus, it needs to be further explored.

[Textual research on the evolution of therapeutic indications of Fenglong (ST 40): discussion on the related articles for "Fenglong (ST 40) for phlegm" published in Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion].

Based on Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Internal Classic), combined with the Huangdi Mingtang Jing JiJiao (Compilation and Correction of Yellow Emperor's Mingtang Classic) and unearthed Tianhui Yijian (Tianhui Medical Bamboo Slips), it is recognized that the therapeutic indications of Fenglong (ST 40) were recorded repeatedly in many medical works of the Qin and Han dynasties; and the treatments mostly focus on "upward reversion of qi ". In Huangdi Mingtang Jing (Yellow Emperor's Mingtang Classic), a part of symptoms were re-described textually, which affects the understanding on the indications of Fenglong (ST 40) in the medical works of the later generations. On the basis of the construction of phlegm theory in the Sui and Tang dynasties, the scholars of Song, Jin and Yuan dynasties had placed the emphasis on the relationship between phlegm and qi movement. In acupuncture works by Dou Hanqing, Fenglong (ST 40) was selected in treatment of phlegm dampness and phlegm-induced asthma, which is also based on the pathogenesis, "upward reversion of qi ", rather than "phlegm" itself. This view can be understood by the proof of "reducing Zusanli (ST 36) for eliminating wind". The relationship between Fenglong (ST 40) and phlegm was emphasized in Yulong Ge (Jade Dragon Verse) and Zhenfang Liuji (Six Sets of Acupuncture Methods), after which, the understanding, " Fenglong (ST 40), the key point for phlegm disorders", had been formed gradually since the Ming dynasty. The formation and evolution of the therapeutic indications of Fenglong (ST 40) are influenced comprehensively by the errors in textual duplication, cultural background, changes in the term expressions of disorders, and the clinical experience of medical practitioners.

[Effect of acupuncture at "Zhibian" (BL 54) through "Shuidao" (ST 28) on PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a pathway in mice with poor ovarian response].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the protective effect of acupuncture at "Zhibian" (BL 54) through "Shuidao (ST 28)" based on the PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a pathway in mice with poor ovarian response (POR), and to explore the possible mechanism of acupuncture in inhibiting ovarian granulosa cells apoptosis in POR. METHODS: A total of 45 mice with regular estrous cycles were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group and an acupuncture group, with 15 mice in each group. Mice in the model group and the acupuncture group were given triptolide suspension (50 mg•kg-1•d-1) by gavage for 2 weeks to establish POR model. After successful modeling, mice in the acupuncture group were given acupuncture at "Zhibian" (BL 54) through "Shuidao" (ST 28) for 2 weeks, once a day, 20 min each time. Ovulation induction was started the day after the intervention ended, and samples were taken from each group after ovulation induction. Vaginal smears were used to observe changes in the estrous cycle of mice. The number of oocytes retrieved, ovarian wet weight, final body weight, and ovarian index were measured. The levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), and luteinizing hormone (LH) in serum were detected by ELISA. The morphology of ovarian tissue was observed by HE staining. The apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells was detected by TUNEL staining. The mRNA expression of PI3K, AKT, and FOXO3a in ovarian tissue was detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. The protein expression of Bcl-2 associated X protein (BAX), caspase-3, phosphorylated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (p-PI3K), and phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT) in ovarian tissue was detected by Western blot. RESULTS: Compared with the blank group, the rate of estrous cycle disorder in the model group was increased (P<0.01); compared with the model group, the rate of estrous cycle disorder in the acupuncture group was decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the blank group, the number of oocytes retrieved, ovarian wet weight, ovarian index, and final body weight in the model group were decreased (P<0.01); compared with the model group, the number of oocytes retrieved, ovarian index, and ovarian wet weight were increased (P<0.01, P<0.05), and there was no significant difference in final body weight (P>0.05) in the acupuncture group. Compared with the blank group, the serum levels of FSH and LH were increased (P<0.01), and the serum levels of AMH and E2 were decreased (P<0.01) in the model group; compared with the model group, the serum levels of FSH and LH were decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05), and the serum levels of AMH and E2 were increased (P<0.01, P<0.05) in the acupuncture group. Compared with the blank group, the number of normal developing follicles in ovarian tissue in the model group was decreased and the morphology was poor, while the number of atretic follicles increased; compared with the model group, the number, morphology, and granulosa cell structure of follicles in the acupuncture group improved to varying degrees, and the number of atretic follicles decreased. Compared with the blank group, the apoptosis rate of ovarian granulosa cells in the model group was increased (P<0.01); compared with the model group, the apoptosis rate of ovarian granulosa cells in the acupuncture group was decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the blank group, the FOXO3a mRNA expression and caspase-3 and BAX protein expression in ovarian tissue in the model group were increased (P<0.01), and the mRNA expression of PI3K and AKT and the protein expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-FOXO3a in ovarian tissue were decreased (P<0.01); compared with the model group, the mRNA expression of FOXO3a and protein expression of caspase-3 and BAX in ovarian tissue in the acupuncture group were decreased (P<0.05, P<0.01), and the mRNA expression of PI3K and AKT and the protein expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-FOXO3a in ovarian tissue were increased (P<0.01, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture at "Zhibian" (BL 54) through "Shuidao" (ST 28) could inhibit ovarian cell apoptosis, and improve ovarian function in POR mice, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of key factors in the PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a pathway.

[Design and application of a disposable self-destructed and sheath-encased sterile acupuncture needle].

A kind of disposable self-destructed and sheath-encased sterile acupuncture needle is designed to efficiently solve the issues of safety and sterilization encountered in the routine operation of acupuncture. The needle consists of three components, i.e. the needle body, the sheath and the locker. The needle body is movable and rotatable in the sheath, but can not be separated from the sheath. It is convenient for the operator to perform the lifting-thrusting and twisting techniques, and to prevent the non-punctured portion of the body from being out off the sheath so that a sterile confined room is formed between the needle and the skin of the operated area. With a locker installed between the sheath and the needle handle, after needle removal, the needle body can be returned and locked in the sheath, avoiding the exposure of needle tip, obtaining the self-destruction of needle and preventing from needling accident and reuse of needle. The devise is operated easily, which is effectively reduce the risk of infection and ensure the safety of medical staffs in practice.

Temporal Summation but not Expectations of Pain Relief Predict Response to Acupuncture Treatment in Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common chronic pain condition for which acupuncture treatment is increasingly utilized. However, there is no universally accepted measure to predict whether a specific patient will benefit from acupuncture. This is a single center, single-blind, sham-controlled, randomized, non-crossover, longitudinal trial of 76 subjects with FM, assigned to either electroacupuncture or a placebo control, mock laser acupuncture. Outcome measures included: clinical pain severity (Brief Pain Inventory, BPI), degree of nociplastic pain (Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire, FSQ), and pressure pain tolerance. Baseline measures of temporal summation of pain and expectations for treatment relief were used as predictors. Individuals in both treatment groups experienced significant reductions in BPI (electroacupuncture: p<0.001; mock laser: p=0.018) and FSQ (electroacupuncture: p=0.032; mock laser: p=0.002) after treatment; however, neither group showed a significant increase in pressure pain tolerance. Lower temporal summation at baseline was correlated with greater post-treatment improvement in BPI in the electroacupuncture group (rho=0.389, p=0.025) but not in the mock laser group (rho=-0.272, p=0.109). Lower baseline temporal summation was correlated with greater decreases in pressure pain tolerance following electroacupuncture (rho=0.400, p=0.040), whereas the opposite was seen for mock laser (rho=-0.562, p=0.001). Treatment expectancy at baseline was not correlated with any outcome after electroacupuncture or mock laser treatments. Our results support using a quantitative sensory testing metric, temporal summation of pain, but not expectations, to predict analgesia following acupuncture treatment for pain. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered under ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02064296. PERSPECTIVE: A randomized study of acupuncture in fibromyalgia found baseline temporal summation, but not expectations of pain relief, to be predictive of treatment response.

Efficacy of Mind-Regulating and Depression-Reliving Acupuncture in combination with Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation of Dorsal Root Ganglion for Post-herpetic Neuralgia.

PURPOSE: This study is aimed at evaluating the efficacy of Mind-Regulating and Depression-Relieving Acupuncture in combination with radiofrequency thermocoagulation of DRG for PHN. METHODS: PHN patients who presented to the Pain Department of Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University from November 2021 to June 2023 were included. The participants were assigned into two groups using a random number table: Acupuncture + RFTC (Group H, n = 44) group and RFTC (Group C, n = 44) group. The pain numerical rating score (NRS), visual analogue scale scores (VAS), IL-6 , Gal-3, oral dose of tramadol and gabapentin capsules levels were recorded before and after 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 w of the treatment. RESULTS: After treatment, NRS scores in both groups were significantly lower than pretreatment scores at each time point. Compared with before treatment, the VAS scores at all time points after treatment was increased in both groups. Compared with before treatment, the doses of oral gabapentin capsules and tramadol were reduced in both groups after treatment. Compared with group C, the doses of oral gabapentin capsules and tramadol after the end of the treatment course were significantly reduced in group H. Compared with before treatment, the blood levels of Gal-3 and IL-6 were reduced at all points after treatment in both groups. Compared with group C, the blood Gal-3 and IL-6 levels were significantly reduced in group H. CONCLUSION: Compared with RFTC alone, acupuncture combined with RFTC of DRG has a better therapeutic effect for PHN.

Research Progress of Vagal Nerve Regulation Mechanism in Acupuncture Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice. It has a high prevalence and poor prognosis. The application of antiarrhythmic drugs and even surgery cannot completely treat the disease, and there are many sequelae. AF can be classified into the category of "palpitation" in Chinese medicine according to its symptoms. Acupuncture has a significant effect on AF. The authors find that an important mechanism of acupuncture in AF treatment is to regulate the cardiac vagus nerve. Therefore, this article intends to review the distribution and function of vagus nerve in the heart, the application and the regulatroy effect for the treatment of AF.

Clinical research progress on acupuncture for the treatment of otogenic vertigo.

Otogenic vertigo is a common disorder that affects the vestibular system, which often results in considerable discomfort and impaired daily functioning. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including acupuncture and moxibustion, has been historically utilized to manage the symptoms of vertigo. However, the effectiveness and methodology of these treatments have rarely been investigated in the medical literature. This study reviews the existing literature on the point selection, method, and therapeutic effect of acupuncture and moxibustion to provide a reference for the TCM treatment of otogenic vertigo. A literature search was performed using the PubMed search engine. The terms used included otogenic vertigo, acupuncture treatment, and acupuncture point selection. A total of 34 relevant articles were retrieved from PubMed. These suggest that the clinical treatment of otogenic vertigo should consider the functions of zang-fu organs and meridians and select different acupuncture treatment methods according to syndrome differentiation based on the difference between deficiency and excess. Acupuncture and moxibustion therapy should be based on acupoint selection, considering the syndrome differentiation, supplemented with experience. The treatment of otogenic vertigo with acupuncture and moxibustion refers to the selection of appropriate acupuncture methods under the guidance of TCM theory and following the principles of syndrome, disease, and meridian differentiation. Common acupuncture methods include body acupuncture, auricular acupuncture, scalp acupuncture, acupoint injection, electroacupuncture, and moxibustion. There are many acupuncture and moxibustion acupoints selected for the treatment of otogenic vertigo. Individualized treatment according to the patient's specific condition is effective and safe, which can help to improve the patient's vertigo symptoms and cerebral blood perfusion.

Impact of task-oriented training based on acupuncture rehabilitation on upper extremity function and quality of life of patients with early stroke.

BACKGROUND: Eighty percent of stroke patients develop upper limb dysfunction, especially hand dysfunction, which has a very slow recovery, resulting in economic burden to families and society. AIM: To investigate the impact of task-oriented training based on acupuncture therapy on upper extremity function in patients with early stroke. METHODS: Patients with early stroke hemiplegia who visited our hospital between January 2021 and October 2022 were divided into a control group and an observation group, each with 50 cases. The control group underwent head acupuncture plus routine upper limb rehabilitation training (acupuncture therapy). In addition to acupuncture and rehabilitation, the observation group underwent upper limb task-oriented training (30 min). Each group underwent treatment 5 d/wk for 4 wk. Upper extremity function was assessed in both groups using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE), Wolf Motor Function Rating Scale (WMFT), modified Barthel Index (MBI), and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Quality of life was evaluated using the Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36). Clinical efficacy of the interventions was also evaluated. RESULTS: Before intervention, no significant differences were observed in the FMA-UE, MBI, and WMFT scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). After intervention, the FMA-UE, WMFT, MBI, COPM-Functional Mobility and Satisfaction, and SF-36 scores increased in both groups (P < 0.05), with even higher scores in the observation group (P < 0.05). The observation group also obtained a higher total effective rate than the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Task-oriented training based on acupuncture rehabilitation significantly enhanced upper extremity mobility, quality of life, and clinical efficacy in patients with early stroke.