Exploring the mechanism of electroacupuncture at different acupoints on acute colitis rats based on JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway

Objective:To investigate the mechanism of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway in electroacupuncture of different acupoints on acute colitis rats.Methods:36 SPF SD rats were randomly divided into 6 groups,with 6 rats in each group.The rat model of acute colitis was prepared by enema with glacial acetic acid solution.After the model was established,electroacupuncture was given to each acupoint group,with density wave,frequency 2Hz-50 Hz,intensity 2 mA,muscle tremor as the degree 20 min/time,1 time/day,for 3 consecutive days.Observe the general condition of rats;the pathological changes of colonic mucosa in rats were observed by HE method.The contents of serum interleukin-4(IL-4)and interleukin-8(IL-8)were detected by ELISA.Western blot and RT-PCR were used to detect the expression of JAK2,STAT3,SOCS1 protein and mRNA in rat colon tissue.Results:In contrast to the normal group,the overall condition of the model group was worse,the colonic mucosa was severely damaged,even necrotic,and the ulcer surface was obvious.The content of IL-4 in serum was obviously reduced,and the content of IL-8 was obviously go up(P<0.01).The protein content of JAK2,STAT3 and the expression of JAK2,STAT3 mRNA in colon tissue of rats were obviously go up,while the protein content of SOCS1 and the expression of SOCS1 mRNA were obviously reduced(P<0.01).In contrast to the model group,the general condition of rats in each acupoint group was significantly improved,the damage and necrosis of colonic mucosa and ulcer surface were obviously alleviated,the content of IL-4 in serum was obviously go up,and the content of IL-8 was significantly decreased(P<0.01).The protein content of JAK2,STAT3 and the expression of JAK2,STAT3 mRNA in colon tissue of rats were obviously reduced,while the protein content of SOCS1 and the expression of SOCS1 mRNA were obviously go up(P<0.05,P<0.01).Comparison of different acupoint groups,the colonic mucosal injury in the Zusanli group was significantly reduced,the content of serum IL-4 was significantly increased,and the content of IL-8 was significantly decreased(P<0.05,P<0.01).The protein content and mRNA expression of JAK2 and STAT3 in colon tissue were significantly down-regulated,while the protein content and mRNA expression of SOCS1 were significantly go up(P<0.05,P<0.01).Conclusion:Electroacupuncture at each acupoint can improve the damage of colonic mucosa and reduce the inflammatory response.The therapeutic effect of Zusanli(ST36)is better than that of Tianshu(ST25),Dachangshu(BL25)and Shangjuxu(ST37).The mechanism may be related to the regulation of JAK2/STAT3/SOCS1 signaling pathway related proteins and inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-8.

Efficacy of acupoint injection in the treatment of chronic eczema and its influence on peripheral blood T cells

BACKGROUND Chronic eczema significantly impacts daily life,social interactions,and quality of life;however,no curative treatment has been identified.AIM To determine the clinical efficacy of acupoint injection for chronic eczema and its influence on peripheral blood T cells.METHODS Eighty patients with chronic eczema treated at our hospital between June 2022 and March 2023 were randomly assigned to a control group(n=40),which received conventional Western medicine treatment,or an observation group(n=40),which received routine Western medicine treatment plus acupoint injection of triamcinolone acetonide.Response and adverse reaction rates,as well as differences in the levels of serum cytokines IFN-γ,IL-2,IL-4,and IL-10 before and after treatment were investigated.RESULTS No difference in overall response rates were found between the observation and control groups(100%vs 90%,respectively;P>0.05);however,the observation group had a higher marked response rate than the control group(87.5%vs 52.5%;P<0.05).Both groups had decreased Eczema Area and Severity Index scores and increased pruritus after treatment(P<0.05),particularly in the observation group(P<0.05).The observation group had an adverse reaction rate of 2.5%(1/40),which did not differ significantly from that of the control group(P>0.05).The observation group exhibited higher post-treatment INF-γand IL-2 but lower IL-4 levels than the control group(P<0.05);however,no significant inter-group difference was observed in post-treatment IL-10 levels(P>0.05).CONCLUSION Acupoint injection of triamcinolone acetonide is safe and effective in treating chronic eczema.Its therapeutic mechanism is related to the regulation of peripheral blood T cell levels,inhibition of inflammatory reactions,and mitigation of immune imbalance.

Analysis of acupoint massage combined with touch on relieving anxiety and pain in patients with oral implant surgery

BACKGROUND Oral implant surgery is an effective procedure for artificial implants in missing tooth areas under local anesthesia.Because patients under local anesthesia are conscious during this procedure,compared with general anesthesia-related operations,they are more likely to experience negative emotions,such as anxiety and tension.These emotional reactions result in shivering and chills in the limbs,leading to poor doctor-patient cooperation and even avoidance of treatment.In traditional Chinese medicine,it is believed that acupoint massage regulates blood and Qi,dredge menstruation,and relieve pain,which is beneficial for patients’emotional adjustment;however,there are few related clinical studies.AIM To observe the changes in anxiety and pain in patients with oral implant after acupoint massage combined with touch therapy.METHODS One hundred patients undergoing oral implantation in our hospital between May 2020 and May 2023 were randomly divided into control and study groups,according to a random number table,with 50 patients in each group.The control group received routine intervention,and the study group received acupoint massage combined with touch on the basis of the control group.Anxiety[assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale(MDAS)],pain severity,blood pressure,heart rate,and satisfaction were compared between the two groups.RESULTS Before intervention,the difference in MDAS score between the two groups was not significant(P>0.05),while after the intervention,the MDAS scores decreased in both groups compared with those before the intervention(P<0.05);the MDAS score of the study group was lower than that of the control group,with a statistically significant difference(P<0.05).The degree of pain in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group(P<0.05).Before the intervention,there were no significant differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressures or heart rate between the two groups(P>0.05).The systolic and diastolic blood pressures and heart rate in the intervention group,during and after the intervention,were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).The total degree of satisfaction in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Acupoint massage combined with touch better relieves anxiety and pain in patients undergoing dental implant surgery,improving the perioperative comfort of these patients and ensuring safety and a smooth operation.

Acupoint catgut-embedding therapy ameliorates DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in BALB/c mice by regulating Th2 type immune response and reducing infiltration of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cells

Background:This study aimed to assess how acupoint catgut-embedding therapy influences Th2-type immune response and the infiltration of CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cells in DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in BALB/c mice.It also conducted an initial examination of the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:Seventy-two mice were randomly divided into four groups:normal control,DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis model(AD),AD with acupoint catgut-embedding treatment(ADA),and AD with sham-acupoint catgut-embedding treatment.After DNCB challenge to induce AD,the ADA group received acupoint catgut-embedding therapy treatment at Zusanli(ST 36)and Quchi(LI 11)acupoints every other week from day 8.Mice in the AD with sham-acupoint catgut-embedding treatment group underwent the same procedure as the ADA group but without catgut implantation.Severity was assessed using SCORAD on treatment days 1,10,and 20.On day 18,nine mice per group were euthanized,and the remaining on day 28.Histopathological changes were observed using hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemistry staining.TNF-α,IL-4,IL-6,and IL-13 levels were analyzed by ELISA,and GATA3 and STAT6 protein levels by western blot.Results:After 20 days of acupoint catgut-embedding therapy treatment,mice showed reduced dermatitis scores compared to DNCB-induced AD-like mice.Significant decreases occurred in serum IL-4,IL-6,IL-13,and TNF-αlevels.Skin analysis revealed marked reductions in CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)cell infiltration,as well as GATA3 and STAT6 protein levels.Conclusion:Acupoint catgut-embedding therapy may effectively alleviate atopic dermatitis by suppressing Th2 immune responses via the STAT6-GATA3 pathway and reducing CD4^(+)and CD8^(+)T cell infiltration in skin lesions.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Auricular Acupoint Pressure Patch Combined with Modified Huangqi Decoction in Treating Diabetic Nephropathy

Objective:To explore the efficacy of auricular acupoint pressure patch combined with modified Huangqi Decoction in treating diabetic nephropathy.Methods:60 patients with diabetic nephropathy treated in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2022 were selected for this study.The patients were randomly divided into two groups using the random number table method,with 30 patients in each group.Among them,the control group was treated with conventional Western medicine,while the experimental group was treated with auricular acupoint pressure patches combined with modified Huangqi Decoction.The patients’fasting blood glucose(FPG),2-hour postprandial blood glucose(2hPG),glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c),urinary protein quantification,urea nitrogen(BUN),serum creatinine(SCr),and other indicators were detected and recorded before and after treatment.Results:Before treatment,there was no statistically significant difference in the FPG,the 2hPG,and the HbA1c between the two groups of patients(P>0.05);after treatment,the FPG,the 2hPG,and the HbA1c of the patients in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).Before treatment,there was no statistically significant difference in the urinary protein quantification,the BUN,and the SCr between the two groups of patients(P>0.05);after treatment,the urinary protein quantification,BUN,and SCr of the patients in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05).The experimental group showed better improvement in symptoms such as fatigue,backache,and frequency of nocturia(P<0.05).Conclusion:Auricular acupoint pressure patch combined with modified Huangqi Decoction effectively treats diabetic nephropathy and it helps control blood sugar and renal function indicators and improve clinical symptoms,therefore improving the patients’quality of life.

Improvement in acupoint selection for acupuncture of nerves surrounding the injury site: electro-acupuncture with Governor vessel with local meridian acupoints

Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoints entirely along the injured nerve trunk and neglecting other regions; this may delay onset of treatment efficacy and rehabilitation. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints combined （GV/LM group） with acupuncture at local meridian acupoints alone （LM group） in the treatment of patients with peripheral nerve injury. In the GV/LM group （n = 15）, in addition to meridian acupoints at the injury site, the following acupoints on the Governor vessel were stimulated： Baihui （GV20）, Fengfu （GV16）, Dazhui （GV14）, and Shenzhu （GV12）, selected to treat nerve injury of the upper limb, and Jizhong （GV6）, Mingmen （GV4）, Yaoyangguan （GV3）, and Yaoshu （GV2） to treat nerve injury of the lower limb. In the LM group （n = 15）, only me- ridian acupoints along the injured nerve were selected. Both groups had electroacupuncture treatment for 30 minutes, once a day, 5 times per week, for 6 weeks. Two cases dropped out of the LM group. A good or excellent clinical response was obtained in 80% of the patients in the GV/ LM group and 38.5% of the LM group. In a second study, an additional 20 patients underwent acupuncture with the same prescription as the GV/LM group. Electomyographic nerve conduc- tion tests were performed before and after acupuncture to explore the mechanism of action of the treatment. An effective response was observed in 80.0% of the patients, with greater motor nerve conduction velocity and amplitude after treatment, indicating that electroacupuncture on specific Governor vessel acupoints promotes functional motor nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury. In addition, electromyography was performed before, during and after electroacu- puncture in one patient with radial nerve injury. After a single session, the patient＇s motor nerve conduction velocity increased by 23.2%, indicating that electroacupuncture at Governor vessel acupoints has an immediate therapeutic effect on peripheral nerve injury. Our results indicate that Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints used simultaneously promote functional repair after peripheral nerve injury. The mechanism of action may arise from an improvement of the local microenvironment in injured nervous tissue, as well as immediate effects of Governor vessel and local meridian acupoint stimulation to ensure the continuity between the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Acupuncture at heterotopic acupoints enhances jejunal motility in constipated and diarrheic rats

AIM:To investigate the effect and mechanism of acupuncture at heterotopic acupoints on jejunal motility,particularly in pathological conditions.METHODS:Jejunal motility was assessed using a manometric balloon placed in the jejunum approximately18-20 cm downstream from the pylorus and filled with approximately 0.1 m L warm water in anesthetized normal rats or rats with diarrhea or constipation.The heterotopic acupoints including LI11(Quchi),ST37(Shangjuxu),BL25(Dachangshu),and the homotopic acupoint ST25(Tianshu),and were stimulated for 60 s by rotating acupuncture needles right and left at a frequency of 2 Hz.To determine the type of afferent fibers mediating the regulation of jejunal motility by manual acupuncture,the ipsilateral sciatic A or C fibers of ST37 were inactivated by local application of the A-fiber selective demyelination agent cobra venom or the C fiber blocker capsaicin.Methoctramine,a selective M2 receptor antagonist,was injected intravenously to identify a specific role for M2 receptors in mediating the effect of acupuncture on jejunal motility.RESULTS:Acupuncture at heterotopic acupoints,such as LI11 and ST37,increased jejunal motility not only in normal rats,but also in rats with constipation or diarrhea.In normal rats,manual acupuncture at LI11 or ST37 enhanced jejunal pressure from 7.34±0.19 cmH2O to 7.93±0.20 cm H2O,an increase of 9.05%±0.82%(P<0.05),and from 6.95±0.14 cm H2O to 8.97±0.22cm H2O,a significant increase of 27.44%±1.96%(P<0.01),respectively.In constipated rats,manual acupuncture at LI11 or ST37 increased intrajejunal pressure from8.17±0.31 cm H2O to 9.86±0.36 cm H2O,an increase of 20.69%±2.10%(P<0.05),and from 8.82±0.28cm H2O to 10.83±0.28 cm H2O,an increase of 22.81%±1.46%(P<0.05),respectively.In rats with diarrhea,MA at LI11 or ST37 increased intrajejunal pressure from 11.95±0.35 cm H2O to 13.96±0.39 cm H2O,an increase of 16.82%±2.35%(P<0.05),and tended to increase intrajejunal pressure(from 12.42±0.38 cm H2O to 13.05±0.38 cm H2O,an increase of 5.07%±1.08%,P>0.05),respectively.In contrast,acupuncture ST25,a homotopic acupoint,decreased not only intrajejunal pressure,but also significantly decreased frequency in normal rats and rats with constipation or diarrhea.Following demyelination of Aδfibers,acupuncture at ST37again augmented intrajejunal pressure to 121.48%±3.06%of baseline.Following capsaicin application for24 h,acupuncture at ipsilateral ST37 increased intrajejunal pressure significantly to 106.63%±1.26%of basallevels when compared to measurements prior to capsaicin treatment(P<0.05).Acupuncture at LI11,ST37,or BL25 significantly rescued methoctramine-mediated inhibition of jejunal motility amplitude from 42.83%±1.65%to 53.43%±1.95%of baseline(P<0.05),from45.15%±2.22%to 70.51%±2.34%of baseline(P<0.01),and from 38.03%±2.34%to 70.12%±2.22%of baseline(P<0.01),respectively.CONCLUSION:Acupuncture at heterotopic acupoints increases the amplitude of jejunal motility in rats.C fibers and M2 receptors predominantly and partially mediate the regulation of jejunal motility by acupuncture,respectively.

Activation of various brain areas during acupuncture at Taixi (KI 3) and Qiuxu (GB 40) acupoints

A number of previous studies of acupuncture acupoint specificity have used sham acupoints, sham acupuncture or meridian acupoints at a great distance from each other as controls in functional MRI （fMRI） experiments. However, few studies have compared different meridian acupoints within the same segment, which are associated with similarly intense needle sensations. We performed fMRI on 12 healthy young volunteers and observed differences in brain activation elicited by acupuncture of the Taixi （KI 3） and Qiuxu （GB 40） acupoints. Acupuncture was applied at the Taixi and Qiuxu acupoints, using a multiple-block fMRI design with three blocks, involving three altemations of resting and task phases. After scanning, needle sensation was assessed. The behavioral results revealed that the subjective needle sensation was similar between the Taixiand Qiuxu acupoints. The fMRI results revealed that acupuncture at the right Taixi acupoint activated the right superior temporal gyrus （BA 22）, left middle frontal gyrus （BA 46） and inferior frontal gyrus （BA 45）, bilateral parietal lobe postcentral gyrus （BA 2）, right parietal lobe （BA 3）, and left parietal lobe （BA 40）. Acupuncture at the right Qiuxu acupoint activated the left superior temporal gyrus （BA 42）, right parietal lobe postcentral gyrus （BA 40, BA 43）, right inferior frontal gyrus （BA 47）, bilateral superior temporal gyrus （BA 22）, and right insula BA13. These results suggest that the right Taixiand Qiuxu acupoints activated different brain areas.

Therapeutic effects on spastic cerebral palsy in children Acupuncture and massage at the Shu and He acupoints versus routine acupoints

BACKGROUND： Based on clinical findings and syndromes, it has been previously shown that therapeutic methods for cerebral palsy can be greatly improved by selecting fewer, but more accurate acupoints. Therefore, greater therapeutic efficacy for cerebral palsy could be obtained by selecting the five Shu acupoints, which are located at the qi-intersecting point of the twelve meridians below the elbow and knee. OBJECTIVE： To treat children with spastic cerebral palsy using acupuncture and massage at the Shu and He points through a combination of rehabilitative training, and to compare the effects with routine acupuncture and massage. DESIGN： A randomized controlled clinical trial. SETTING： Rehabilitation Center for Cerebral Palsy, Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. PARTICIPANTS： Sixty children with spastic cerebral palsy were selected from the Rehabilitation Center for Cerebral Palsy, Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from May 2003 to February 2006. There were 38 boys and 22 girls, aged 10 months to 4 years old, muscle strength ranging from grade I to grade IV. The children were randomly divided into a treatment group （n =30） and a control group （n =30）. Informed consent for the therapeutic program was obtained from the relatives of all enrolled children. The study was approved by the Hospital＇s Ethical Committee. METHODS： All children were given exercise and occupational therapy based on standard treatments. （1） In the control group, the children were additionally treated with routine acupuncture and massage during the one-month basic rehabilitative training. The acupuncture needles were manipulated alternately at the acupoints of Jianyu, Shousanli, Binao, Hegu, Huantiao, Xuanzhong, and Biguan. They were treated once per day, 6 days a week, followed by one day of rest. The children＇s limbs were first massaged by pressing, stretching, rolling, and kneading. Then, the same acupuncture points were pressed with the thumb for 30 minutes each time, once a day, 6 days a week, followed by one day of rest. The treatment continued for 1 month. （2） In the treatment group, the children were administered acupuncture and massage at the Shu and He points during the one-month basic rehabilitative treatment. For acupuncture of the upper limbs, the following acupoints were used： Sanjian and Quchi of the Large Intestine Meridian of Hand-Yangming, and Houxi and Xiaohai of the Small Intestine Meridian of Hand-Taiyang. The acupoints were acupunctured alternately every other day. For acupuncture of the lower limbs, the following acupoints were used; Zulinqi and Yanglingquan of the Gall bladder Meridian of Foot-Shaoyang, Taibai and Yinlingquan of the Spleen Meridian of Foot-Taiyang, or Xiangu and Zusanli of the Stomach Meridian of Foot-Yangming. The acupoints were acupunctured alternately every other day. Three needles were for the medial malleolus and three needles for the lateral malleolus. They were treated once a day, 6 days a week, followed by one day of rest. The children＇s limbs were first massaged by means of pressing, stretching, rolling, and kneading. The same acupuncture points were then pressed with the thumb for 0.5-1 minute at each point, 30 minutes each time, once a day, 6 days a week, followed by one day of rest. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES： Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated using gross motor function measurements, as well as activity of daily living scale before and after treatment. RESULTS： All 60 enrolled children with spastic cerebral palsy were included in the final analysis of results. （1） Comparison of gross motor function scores： The gross motor function score after treatment was significantly higher in both the treatment group and control group than before treatment （t = -3.86 and -8.882, respectively, P 〈 0.05）. The scores in the treatment group were significantly higher than the control group scores （t = -7.166, P 〈 0.01）. （2） Changes in activity of daily living scores： The scores for activity of daily living in the treatment group was significantly higher after treatment than before treatment （t = -3.933, P 〈 0.01）, and was also significantly higher than the control group （t = -0.671, P 〈 0.05）. CONCLUSION： Acupuncture and massage at the Shu and He acupoints can significantly ameliorate motor function deficits and movement disabilities in children with spastic cerebral palsy. The therapeutic efficacy at these acupoints is better than routine acupuncture and massage.

THE EXTENSIVENESS AND SPECIFICITY OF EFFECT OF ELECTROACUPUNCTURE AT DIFFERENT ACUPOINTS ON NOCICEPTIVE RESPONSE OF CONVERGENT NEURONS IN TRIGEMINAL NUCLEUS CAUDALIS

Experiments were carried out on rats anaesthetized with uraethane. The sponta-neous discharges and nociceptive responses of convergent neurons in the right trigerninal nucleus cau-dalis(TNC) to noxious stimuli at receptive field (cheek) were recorded extracellularly with glass mi-cro-electrode. Electroacupuncture (EA ) was applied at bilateral " Xiaguan" (ST 7 on face ) or "Zusanli" (ST 36 on shank) acupoint with Iow (2V) and high (18V) intensity. The noclceptive re-sponse of convergent neurons in TNC could be inhihited by low intensity EA applied at "Xiaguan" butnot "Zusanlil", showing the specificity of acupoints. High intensity EA at either "Xiaguan" or "Zusan-li" also reduced the nociceptive responses, showing the analgesic extensiveness of acupoints. We sug-gest that "the gate of control" mechanism plays a main role in low intensity EA and "diffuse noxiousinhibitory controls" (DNIC) rnechanism does so in high intensity EA.The results suggest that we should pay attention to the location of acupoints,

Catgut implantation at acupoints increases the expression of glutamate aspartate transporter and glial glutamate transporter-1 in the brain of rats with spasticity after stroke

Catgut implantation at acupoints has been shown to alleviate spasticity after stroke in rats.However,the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood.In this study,we used the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model of stroke.Three days after surgery,absorbable surgical catgut sutures were implanted at Dazhui（GV14）,Jizhong（GV6）,Houhui,Guanyuan（CV4）and Zhongwan（CV12）.The Zea Longa score was used to assess neurological function.The Modified Ashworth Scale was used to evaluate muscle tension.The 2,3,5-triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride assay was used to measure infarct volume.Immunohistochemical staining was performed for glutamate aspartate transporter（GLAST）and glial glutamate transporter-1（GLT-1）expression.Western blot assay was used to analyze the expression of GLAST and GLT-1.Reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction were carried out to assess the expression of GLAST and GLT-1m RNAs.After catgut implantation at the acupoints,neurological function was substantially improved,muscle tension was decreased,and infarct volume was reduced in rats with spasticity after stroke.Furthermore,the expression of GLAST and GLT-1 m RNAs was increased on the injured（left）side.Our findings demonstrate that catgut implantation at acupoints alleviates spasticity after stroke,likely by increasing the expression of GLAST and GLT-1.

CLINICAL STUDIES ON CEREBRAL INFARCTION TREATED WITHACUPUNCTURE AT ACUPOINTS OF GOVERNOR MERIDIAN

In this paper, 148 cases of cerebral infarction were treated with acupuncture at acupoints of Governor meridian (treatment group), and the other 97 cases were treated simultaneously with conventional body acupuncture (control group). The results show that the marked improvement rate was 42. 6 % and the total effective rate was 96. 6 % in the treatment group; while in the control group, the marked improvement rate and the total effective rate were 28. 9 % and 89. 1 % respectively.It suggests that the therapeutic effect in the treatment group is better than that of the control group.The roles of regulation and ameliorating hemorheology of acupuncture at acupoints of Governor meridian are the foundation of its treatment mechanism.

A COMPREHENSIVE REPORT ON THE CLINICAL STUDIES OF DAY——PRESCRIPTION OF ACUPOINTS ACCORDING TO ZIWULIUZHU

In order to appraise objectively the actual clinical value of Day—Prescrip-tion of Acupoints according to Ziwuliuzhu(Mid—Night—Noon Ebb—Flow)theory,we ob-served comparatively the effect of this needling method on Deqi(Qi arrival),gallbladder contraction(through B—type ultrasonic examination),cardiovascular function and nail fold mi-cro-circulation in 302 patients with different diseases from July 1984 to February 1991.Re-sults showed that when a single index ,especially the subjective index .was adopted,the Day—prescription of Acupoints had significant effect(P【0.05),but as the indices observedwere objective,multiform and synchronous this acupoint selection lost its effective signifi-cance(P】0.05).Therefore ,our works proved that there was no marked clinical value in theDay—Prescription of Acupoints according to Ziwuliuzhu theory.

EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE ACUPUNCTURE EFFECTS ON CALCIUM ION CONCENTRATION IN RABBITS' ACUPOINTS

In this article, the concentration of calcium ion(Ca21 ) in rabbits’ acupoints hasbeen observed in vivo by means of the Ca21 selective acupuncture electrode (Ca21 SAE). We discov-ered that stimulating the acupoints in the meridian could cause the Ca21 concentration increasing inother points of the same meridian but reducing in the control points （lateral to the meridian points）.The results indicate that Ca21 may involve in the activities of the meridians.

Application of auricular acupoints therapy in relieving the gastrointestinal side effects induced by chemotherapy： an integrative review

Background： It is an urgent matter to relieve the side effects induced by chemotherapy. In recent years, auricular acupoints therapy, which is a nursing technique used in traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）, has been used on many patients who are undergoing chemotherapy without causing any side effects. Furthermore, it has a good efficacy and is inexpensive. Aim： The aim of this study was to provide evidence for the need of further research in the treatment and nursing of patients during chemotherapy. Methods： We conducted an integrated review of the reports in CNK1, WanFang Data, SinoMed, and PubMed databases for journal articles published after 1990. The search terms included auricular acupoints taping and pressing, auricular acupoints therapy, auricular point sticking, ear points, chemotherapy, and side effects and relevant Medical Subject Heading terms. We then analyzed the mechanism, acu- points, and operation method and summarized the application of auricular acupoints therapy in patients suffering from chemotherapy side effects. Results： This review included 102 articles published between 1990 and 2016, and we brought 63 other articles into the study. Eighteen articles focused on auricular acupoints therapy, combined with other therapy, to relieve patient side effects during chemotherapy. Conclusions： Auricular acupoints therapy can prevent and relieve the side effects induced by chemotherapy. It deserves further clinical applications.

OBSERVATION ON THE THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF BIRD-PECKING MOXIBUSTION OF SPECIFIC ACUPOINTS IN THE TREATMENT OF FUNCTIONAL DYSPEPSIA

Objective: To observe the therapeutic effect of moxibustion of some specific acupoints for treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD, qi-distension type). Methods:A total of 50 cases of FD patients were randomly divided into treatment group (n=26) and medication group (n=24). In treatment group, bird-pecking moxibustion was applied to Zhongwan (CV 12), Qihai (CV 6), Neiguan (PC 6) and Gongsun (SP 4) 5～6 times in every treatment till the local skin got flush. The treatment was given once daily, continuously for 10 days. In control group, the patients were ordered to take Motilium 10 mg/time, 3 times daily. Following 10 days’ treatment the therapeutic effect was assessed.Results:After treatment, of the 26 cases in treatment group, 11 (42.3%) were cured, 7 (26.92%) had remarkable improvement in their symptoms, 6 (23.07%) had improvement and 2 (7.69%) failed, with a total effective rate of 92.31%. Of the 24 cases in medication group, 9 (37.50%) were cured, 6 (25.00%) experienced remarkable improvement in their symptoms, 6 (25.00%) were improved and 3 (12.50%) failed, with a total effective rate of 87.50%. Comparison between two groups showed that the therapeutic effect of moxibustion was significantly superior to that of medication (P<0.05). In addition, the difference value of the therapeutic effect index (TEI) between post-and pre-treatment in treatment group was also significantly higher than that of medication group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Bird-pecking moxibustion of specific acupoints can effectively improve clinical symptoms of FD patients.

Effect of cluster needling at scalp acupoints on differential protein expression in rat brain tissue after acute focal cerebral ischemia

Objective:To explore the function of cluster needling at scalp points therapy on regulating differential protein's expression at different time points in middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)model rats.Methods:Fifty-four rats were divided into three groups randomly and 18 rats in each group.The groups respectively were the model group(group M,n=18),cluster needling at scalp points group(group C,n=18),false operation group(group F,n=18).Each group was then assigned in three subgroups,including 24-h,7-day,and 14-day subgroups.Six rats in each subgroup.Acupuncture at Baihui(GV20)and 2 points beside Baihui,which was 3 e4 mm away from the midline.Longa score was used to evaluated neurological effects.Proteomics methods were used to identify differentially expression proteins with a standard of fold change greater than 1.5 and P<.05 at different times.Results:1.Nerve function scoring:The nerve function scores at 7 and 14 days decreased in group C,which showed better neural function than group M(P<.05).2.Fold change in proteins:Group M showed932 differentially expressed proteins compared with group F,and among them,414 proteins showed significant changes in expression after acupuncture.The expression levels of Cdc42 and GFAP were increased,and Mag,Shank2,and MBP levels were decreased.In the Gene Ontology analysis,the cellular component consisted of the terms cytoplasm,cytoskeleton,lysosome,and plasma membrane.The main related biological processes were cellecell signaling,protein transport,aging,and cell adhesion.Many synaptic and metabolic pathways were found by KEGG analysis.Conclusion:Cluster needling at scalp acupoints can improve the nerve function score and improve dyskinesia in MCAO model rats.Cluster needling at scalp acupoints can regulate the expression of 414 proteins,including Cdc42,GFAP,Mag,Shank2,and MBP,which are related to cerebral ischemia.The differential proteins are major concentration in cytoplasm,cytoskeleton,lysosomes,and plasma membrane,participate in cellecell signaling,protein transport,aging,and cell adhesion,and act through multiple synaptic and metabolic pathways to exert their biological functions.

CLINICAL OBSERVATION ON 104 CASES OF LOCAL NEURODERMATITIS TREATED BY CATGUT IMPLANTATION AT ACUPOINTS

Neurodermatitis is an intractable dermatosis, which is characterized by paroxysmal pru-ritus and lichenoid pathological changes in the skin. In this study, 104 cases of local neuredermatitiswere treated with catgut implantation at acupoints. Among them, 80 cases (76. 9 % ) were markedlyeffective, 14 cases (13. 5 % ) effective with the total effective rate of 90. 4 %. There were another 38cases used as a control group, who were treated with 10% Unguentum picis fabae nigrae or Triamci-nolone. The local area smeared with the ointment was blowed by an electric hot blower. If itching wassevere, it should be treated with sedative or using some antihistaminics. Of them, 18 cases (47. 4 % )were markedly effective, 11 cases (28. 9 % ) effective. The total effective rate was 76. 3 %. There wasa significant difference between the two groups (P【0.05 ). It shows that the effect of catgut implan-tation at acupoint is better than that of medicination group.

AN OBSERVATION ON THE CURATIVE EFFECT OF CATGUT-EMBEDDING AT ACUPOINTS FOR TREATMENT OF 80 CASES OF LUMBAR MUSCLE STRAIN

In the present paper,the clinical curative effects of catgut embedding therapyand traditional acupuncture therapy for treatment of lumbar muscle strain were compared.The sameacupoints were used in both groups.Results showed that the effective rates were 100% and 92.5%respectively in 80 cases of the catgut embedding group and 40 cases of the acupuncture group.Therewas a significant difference between the two groups(P【0.005).It indicates that the catgut embed-ding therapy is an effective method for treatment of lumbar muscle strain.

THE CORRELATION OF CENTRAL AFFERENT OF ACUPOINTS QUANLIAO(SI 18) AND SHIBAI(ST 2): TRANSGANGLIONIC DEGENERATIVE METHOD STUDY

Using transganglionic degenerative methed, we investigated the primary afferentinformation of acupoints of Quanliao (SI 18) and Shibai(ST 2). The results showed that the largeamounts of degenerative fibers could be found bilaterally in trigeminal spinal nucleus and its tract,trigeminal principal sensory nucleus, trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus and some degenerations couldbe observed ipsilaterally in solitary tract and its nucleus, medullary lateral reticular nucleus, giganto-cellular reticular nucleus and nucleus raphe magnus following transection of infraorbital nerve. A verymoderate degenerative fibers could be identifed in ipsilateral accessory spinal nucleus and spinal reticu-lar nucleus. A few degenerative fibers were seen on the contralateral magnocellular part of caudatepart of trigeminal spinal nucleus by passing through the posterior commissure of canalis centralis.These results suggest that the primary information of acupoints of Quanliao and Shibai could be trans-mittered into the above