Effect of low-frequency electroacupuncture on pancreatic endocrine system in patients with simple obesity

Objective

To observe different efficacies of low-frequency electroacupuncture (EA) on pancreatic endocrine system in male and female patients with simple obesity due to spleen deficiency-related dampness.

Methods

A total of 80 simple obesity patients were assigned to a male group (n=37) and a female group (n=43). Both groups received a 30-minute low-frequency EA at Yinlingquan (SP 9), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Zusanli (ST 36), Fenglong (ST 40), Quchi (LI 11), Tianshu (ST 25), Zhongwan (CV 12), Shuifen (CV 9), Qihai (CV 6) and Guanyuan (CV 4). The treatment was done once a day, and 10 times made up a course of treatment. Patients in both groups were treated for 2 courses. Then the changes in body mass index (BMI), serum insulin, insulin antibodies and leptin level in the two groups were observed and analyzed.

Results

After treatment, the BMI, serum insulin, insulin antibodies and leptin levels were significantly reduced in both groups (P<0.01 or P<0.05); the BMI and serum insulin concentration were more significantly reduced in the male group than those in the female group (both P<0.01); and the leptin level was more significantly reduced in the female group than that in the male group (P<0.01).

Conclusion

EA can significantly regulate BMI and pancreatic endocrine system in both men and women with simple obesity; however, there is a gender difference: better effect for men in reducing BMI and serum insulin and better effect for women in reducing serum leptin level.

     

Comparative study of electroacupuncture and moxibustion in influencing Tianshu (ST 25) regions mast cells in visceral hyperalgesia rats

Objective

To evaluate and compare electroacupunctures (EA) with different parameters and moxibustion at different temperatures influencing the activation of mast cells (MC) in Tianshu (ST 25) regions of visceral hyperalgesia model rats.

Methods

Rats (except for model group) respectively accepted 1 mA or 3 mA EA or moxibustion at 43 °C or 4 °C to stimulate Tianshu (ST 25) points after randomization of the fifty visceral hyperalgesia model rats, and then were compared with that in model and normal groups. Number, degranulation numbers, degranulation rates in Tianshu (ST 25) regions MC of rats in each group were observed using toluidine blue staining. Abdominal withdrawl reflex (AWR) score was used to evaluate the rat visceral hyperalgesia reactions.

Results

Compared with the normal group and the model group, MC numbers (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.01), degranulation numbers and degranulation rates (P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.01) of Tianshu (ST 25) MC in regions tissues in 43 °C and 4 °C moxibustion groups, and 1 mA and 3 mA EA groups all increased significantly. Compared with the model group, AWR scores were significantly lower in 43 °C and 4 °C moxibustion groups, and 1 mA and 3 mA EA groups under the stimulation of 20 mmHg, 40 mmHg, 0 mmHg or 80 mmHg colorectal distension (CRD) (P<0.05 in 1 mA and 3 mA EA groups under the stimulation of 20 mmHg, P<0.01 in the other groups). AWR scores in 43 °C and 4 °C oxibustion groups under the stimulation of 20 mmHg, 40 mmHg, 0 mmHg or 80 mmHg CRD were not significantly different from those in the normal group (all P>0.05); AWR scores in 1 mA EA group under the stimulation of 0 mmHg or 80 mmHg were significantly higher than that in the normal group (P<0.01); AWR score in 3 mA EA group under the stimulation of 0 mmHg was significantly higher than that in the normal group (P<0.01), and AWR scores in 3 mA EA group under the stimulation of 20 mmHg or 80 mmHg were also higher than that in the normal group (P<0.05). AWR scores were higher in 1 mA EA group under the stimulation of 40 mmHg or 80 mmHg than that in 4 °C moxibustion group (P<0.05); AWR score was higher in 3 mA EA group under the stimulation of 40 mmHg than that in 4 °C moxibustion group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

There are differences among EA of different parameters and moxibustion of different temperatures in activating on Tianshu (ST 25) regions MC of visceral hyperalgesia model rats, as well as in improving the visceral hyperalgesia reaction. The effect of 4 °C moxibustion is the most significant.

     

Study on the mechanisms of electroacupuncture for promoting gastrointestinal motility in rats with diabetic gastroparesis

Objective

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at Zusanli (ST 36) on the gastrointestinal motility and the ultrastructures of pacemaker cells [the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC)] in diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) rats and explore the mechanism of EA for DGP.

Methods

A total of 50 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into group A, group B, group C, group D and group E, with 10 rats in each group. Group A was the blank control; a single intraperitoneal injection of 2% streptozotocin (STZ) was performed in rats of group B, group C, group D and group E, with high glucose and high fat diet for 8 weeks to establish the DGP rat models. Group B was the model group and the rats did not receive any treatment; group C was EA at acupoint group and the rats received EA at Zusanli (ST 36), Liangmen (ST 21) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6); group D was EA at non-acupoint group and the rats received EA at the control points of Zusanli (ST 36), Liangmen (ST 21) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6); group E was metoclopramide group and the rats were treated by intragastric administration of metoclopramide. Blood glucose was detected using ONE TOUCH blood glucose meter; gastric emptying rate and small intestine migration rate were measured using intragastric phenol red; ultrastructures of gastric antrum ICC were detected by transmission electron microscopy.

Results

The differences of blood glucose between group B, group C, group D, group E versus that of group A were statistically significant after modeling (P<0.01); after treatment, the differences of blood glucose between group D, group E versus that of group C were statistically significant (P<0.05, P<0.01); the gastric emptying rate of rats in group B was statistically significant different from that in group A (P<0.01); the gastric emptying rate of rats in group C was statistically significant different from that in group B (P<0.01). The migration rates of rats’ small intestines in group B, group C, group D and group E were all statistically significant different from that in group A (P<0.01); the migration rate of rats’ small intestines in group C was statistically significant different from that in group B (P<0.01). The ultrastructure of rat’s ICC in group B showed apoptosis compared with that in group A; rat‘s ICC in group C had complete basement membrane, more cytoplasm mitochondria, Golgi and rough endoplasmic reticulum, showing clear structure, occasional mitochondria swelling and gap junctions with adjacent smooth muscle cells; there were no significant differences between group D, group E versus group B.

Conclusion

EA at Zusanli (ST 36) plus other acupoints can regulate the blood glucose and promote gastrointestinal motility in DGP rats, and the mechanism may be related to repairing the damaged ICC structure.

     

Clinical observation on electroacupuncture at local points plus point injection for Bell palsy during pregnancy

Objective

To observe the therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at local points plus point injection on House-Brackmann facial nerve function classification grade (H-B) and facial disability index (FDI) in pregnant women with Bell palsy (BP).

Methods

A total of 40 eligible BP patients during pregnancy were randomized into a treatment group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). The treatment group was intervened by EA at Sizhukong (TE 23), Tongziliao (GB 1), Sibai (ST 2), Quanliao (SI 18), Yifeng (TE 17), Dicang (ST 4), Jiache (ST 6) and point injection at Zusanli (ST 36) and Yanglingquan (GB 34) on the affected side, 30 min every time, 10 sessions as a course, for 2 courses in total while control group by EA with the same points, manipulation and courses as the treatment group.

Results

After the treatment, the H-B classification in the treatment group was better than that in the control group, with a significant inter-group difference (P<0.05); after the treatment, the change of FDI score in the treatment group was significantly different from that in the control group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

EA at local points plus point injection can produce a more significant efficacy than EA in the treatment of BP during pregnancy.

     

A comparative study of the effect of low-frequency electroacupuncture on blood lipids between men and women with simple obesity

Objective

To observe the difference of the effect of low-frequency electroacupuncture (EA) on blood lipids between male and female patients with simple obesity due to damp induced by spleen deficiency.

Methods

Eighty patients with simple obesity were recruited, including 37 males and 43 females, to receive low-frequency EA by selecting Yinlingquan (SP 10), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Zusanli (ST 36), Fenglong (ST 40), Quchi (LI 11), Tianshu (ST 25), Zhongwan (CV 12), Shuifen (CV 9), Qihai (CV 6) and Guanyuan (CV 4), with needles retained for 30 min. The treatment was given once a day, 10 sessions as a treatment course, for 2 courses in total. The contents of body fat percentage (F%), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), blood glucose (Glu) and adiponectin (ADPN) in serum were observed to see the changes, and the two groups were compared and analyzed.

Results

After the treatment, F%, and serum contents of TC, TG, LDL, Glu and ADPN dropped significantly in the two groups (P<0.05 or P<0.01) and the serum content of HDL increased significantly in male group (P<0.05). The decrease of F% in female group was more significant than that in male group (P<0.01); the decrease of ADPN in male group was more significant than that in female group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

EA can regulate the disordered blood lipids in male and female patients with simple obesity, with certain differences between genders. The decrease of subcutaneous fat content is more significant in females than that in males, while the decrease of ADPN is more significant in males.

     

Effect of ear acupuncture plus injection at Zusanli (ST 36) on shoulder pain and cytokines after gynecologic laparoscopic surgery

Objective

To explore the clinical efficacy of ear acupuncture plus injection at Zusanli (ST 36) in treating shoulder pain after laparoscopic gynecological surgery, and to observe its effect on cytokines.

Methods

Two hundred patients with shoulder pain after laparoscopic gynecological surgery were randomized into two groups based on their visiting sequence, 100 cases each. The observation group was intervened by ear acupuncture plus injection at Zusanli (ST 36), and the control group was intervened by oral administration of Ibuprofen, 10 d as a treatment course. The clinical efficacies of the two groups were compared after 2 treatment courses; the visual analogue scale (VAS), present pain intensity (PPI) and 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) were measured before and after the treatment; the changes of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 after the treatment were also observed.

Results

The VAS and PPI scores were significantly changed after the treatment in both groups (both P<0.01). After the treatment, the VAS score in the observation group was significantly different from that in the control group (P<0.05). The component scores of SF-36 were significantly changed after the treatment in both groups (P<0.01); after the treatment, the scores of physical functioning (PF), bodily pain (BP), social functioning (SF), and mental health (MH) in the observation group were significantly different from those in the control group (all P<0.05). The contents of IL-6 and IL-10 dropped significantly after the intervention in both groups (both P<0.01), and the between-group differences were also statistically significant (both P<0.01). The total effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Ear acupuncture plus injection at Zusanli (ST 36) can significantly improve the shoulder pain after laparoscopic gynecological surgery, down-regulate the expressions of IL-6 and IL-10, and boost the recovery.

     

Instant effect of moxibustion at different points on electrogastrogram of patients with functional dyspepsia

Objective

To observe different effects of moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36) and Yanglingquan (GB 34) on electrogastrogram (EGG) of patients with functional dyspepsia (FD).

Methods

A total of 65 cases were randomized into a Zusanli (ST 36) group (n=33) and a Yanglingquan (GB 34) group (n=32) by random serial number, to receive moxibustion therapy to the corresponding point respectively. The 8-lead EGG was used before and after treatment to collect EGG parameter of the gastric body, antrum of stomach, lesser curvature and greater curvature, including the dominant frequency, slow wave percentage, average frequency, response area and motility index.

Results

After treatment, the dominant frequency and slow wave percentage were improved in nearly the whole stomach area in Zusanli (ST 36) group, showing statistical significances (both P<0.05); the slow wave percentage and average frequency were improved in stomach body and antrum of stomach in Yanglingquan (GB 34) group, showing statistical significances (both P<0.05); moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36) had a significantly higher influence on EGG than Yanglingquan (GB 34), in which the lifting of slow wave percentage was significantly higher than Yanglingquan (GB 34) group (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36) and Yanglingquan (GB 34) has the effect of adjusting abnormal EGG pattern in FD patients. Compared with Yanglingquan (GB 34), Zusanli (ST 36) has a superior effect in improving EGG in stomach area.

     

Effect of point-moxibustion on ghrelin and GHSR-1a expressions in lateral septal nucleus of rats with diabetic gastroparesis

Objective

To observe the effect of point-moxibustion on gastrointestinal motility, mRNA and protein expressions of ghrelin and growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR-1a) in lateral septal nucleus of rats with diabetic gastroparesis (DGP), and to investigate the central regulatory mechanism of DGP treatment with point-moxibustion.

Methods

Forty SPF-grade Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, an electroacupuncture (EA) group and a point-moxibustion group, with 10 rats in each group. A DGP rat model was established by intraperitoneal injection of 2% streptozotocin (STZ) with 8-week irregular high-sugar and high-fat diet in the model group, the EA group and the point-moxibustion group; and rats in the blank group were injected intraperitoneally with 0.1 mmoL/L (pH 4.5) citric acid-sodium citrate buffer with 8-week normal diet. Eight weeks later, rats in the EA group were treated by EA at Zusanli (ST 36), Liangmen (ST 21) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6); while rats in the point-moxibustion group were treated by point-moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36), Liangmen (ST 21) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) for successive 15 d. Rats in the blank group and the model group were fixed as the control without intervention. After treatment, intestinal propulsion rate and gastric emptying rate were measured. The mRNA and protein expressions of ghrelin and GHSR-1a in the lateral septal nucleus were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot (WB).

Results

Compared with the blank group, the intestinal propulsion rate and gastric emptying rate of the model group were significantly lower (both P<0.01); compared with the model group, the intestinal propulsion rate and gastric emptying rate of the EA group and the point-moxibustion group increased significantly (all P<0.05). The mRNA and protein expressions of ghrelin and GHSR-1a were lower in the model group than those in the blank group (all P<0.01). The mRNA and protein expressions of ghrelin and GHSR-1a were significantly higher in the EA group and the point-moxibustion group than those in the model group (all P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the EA group and the point-moxibustion group (all P>0.05).

Conclusion

Point-moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36), Liangmen (ST 21) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) can increase the intestinal propulsion rate and gastric emptying rate of DGP rats, and promote the mRNA and protein expressions of ghrelin and GHSR-1a in the central nervous system. The mechanism may be related to the activation of ghrelin pathway in hypothalamic arcuate nucleus-lateral septal nucleus.

     

Clinical observation on electroacupuncture plus <Emphasis Type="Italic">Jiawei Jinhuanggao</Emphasis> (Supplemented Golden Yellow Paste) for gouty arthritis

Objective

To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture (EA) plus self-made Jiawei Jinhuanggao (Supplemented Golden Yellow Paste) for gouty arthritis.

Methods

A total of 80 cases with gouty arthritis were randomly allocated into an observation group (n=40) and a Western medication group (n=40). Cases in the observation group received EA and external application of self-made Jiawei Jinhuanggao (Supplemented Golden Yellow Paste), whereas cases in the Western medication group took Colchicine and Allopurinol tablets orally. After 10 d of treatment, the pain, joint swelling and uric acid in blood were observed. In addition, the follow-up was conducted 6 months after end of the treatment to evaluate the long-term effect.

Results

After treatment, there were no between-group statistical differences in pain and uric acid in blood (P>0.05); and there were between-group statistical differences in joint swelling and relapse rate (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 97.5% in the observation group, versus 95.0% in the Western medication group, showing no statistical difference (P>0.05).

Conclusion

EA plus Jiawei Jinhuanggao (Supplemented Golden Yellow Paste) has safe and long-term efficacy for gouty arthritis efficacy.

     

Effect of electroacupuncture and herbal cake-partitioned moxibustion on anxiety and depression in patients with crohn’s disease in remission

Objective

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) and herbal cake-partitioned moxibustion on anxiety and depression in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) in remission.

Methods

Sixty CD cases were randomly allocated into an EA group (n=30) and an herbal cake-partitioned moxibustion group (n=30) using the random number table by the ratio of 1:1. In addition, 30 healthy subjects were included in a control group. Bilateral Tianshu (ST 25), Qihai (CV 6) and Zhongwan (CV 12) were used in the EA and herbal cakepartitioned moxibustion groups. The treatment was done 3 times a week, for a total of 12 weeks. The efficacy was evaluated using self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS) and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) symptom scores.

Results

Before treatment, the SAS and SDS scores in CD patients were remarkably higher than those in healthy subjects. After EA or herbal cake-partitioned moxibustion treatment, the SAS and SDS scores were significantly decreased in both groups, showing significant intra-group differences (P<0.05); the symptom scores of abdominal pain (severity, frequency and duration), bowel sounds/flatus and general fatigue were significantly decreased, showing significant intra-group differences (P<0.05); however, there were no between-group statistical differences (P>0.05).

Conclusion

Both EA and herbal cake-partitioned moxibustion can significantly decrease abnormally high SAS and SDS scores in CD patients as well as TCM symptom scores. The two therapies share similar effects in alleviating common symptoms and improving anxiety and depression.

     

Effect of moxibustion stimulation on repair of injured gastric mucosa after common peroneal nerve transection

Objective

To investigate the protective effect of moxibustion in initiating the endogenous protection information on gastric mucosa, and its relationship with the pathway of common peroneal nerve.

Methods

Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a normal group (group A), a model group (group B), a moxibustion model group (group C) and a moxibustion model plus surgery group (group D), 12 in each group. Except for group A, rats in the other groups were treated with dehydrated ethanol and aspirin to prepare gastric mucosal damage model. The rats in group B were not treated with any interventions; rats in group C received moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36), twice a day for continuous 3 d. The rats in group D were subjected to preparing the gastric mucosal damage model after the common peroneal nerve transection, followed by moxibustion at Zusanli (ST 36). After a 3-day intervention, ulcer index (UI) in each group was observed, and the levels of gastric mucosa-related repair cytokines of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) were detected.

Results

Compared with group A, the pathological changes and UI of group B were worse (P=0.000), but TNF-α in serum and tissue was changed significantly (P=0.000, P=0.002), IL-4 in serum and tissue was improved significantly (P=0.000, P=0.000). Compared with group B, TNF-α and IL-4 in group C and group D were significantly improved (TNF-α: P=0.003, P=0.016; IL-4: P=0.000, P=0.002). Compared with group C, the changes of UI in group B and group D were poor (both P=0.000); the levels of TNF-α and IL-4 in serum were significantly decreased (TNF-α: P=0.000, P=0.025; IL-4: P=0.000, P=0.034); and tissue HSP70 levels were decreased significantly (P=0.000, P=0.033).

Conclusion

Zusanli (ST 36) can transmit information through the pathway of common peroneal nerve, regulate the release of gastric mucosal protective factors, and up-regulate the expression of cytothesis-related proteins, so as to achieve the effect in repairing gastric mucosa.

     

Efficacy observation on acupuncture for diabetic gastroparesis

Objective

To observe the effect of acupuncture on gastric motility, plasma motilin and serum gastrin in patients with diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) and evaluate its clinical efficacy.

Methods

A total of 100 eligible cases were randomly allocated into an acupuncture group (n=50) and a control group (n=50). Patients in the acupuncture group were treated by needling Zhongwan (CV 12), Zusanli (ST 36) and Neiguan (PC 6), whereas patients in the control group were treated with oral administration of Domperidone. The clinical efficacies of the two groups were compared; and changes in gastric motility, plasma motilin and serum gastrin in both groups were observed before and after treatment.

Results

After treatment, the symptom scores, gastric motility and contents of plasma motilin and serum gastrin were significantly improved in both groups (P<0.05). There were between-group statistically significant differences in symptom scores, gastric motility and levels of plasma motilin and serum gastrin after treatment (all P<0.05). The total effective rate was 96% in the treatment group, versus 78% in the control group, showing a statistically significant difference (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Acupuncture is effective for DGP and can reduce the levels of plasma motilin and serum gastrin.

     

Clinical observation on Tui-pushing the Large Intestine Meridian plus point sticking at Tianshu (ST 25) in prevention of post-stroke constipation

Objective

To observe the prevention effect of Tui-pushing the Large Intestine Meridian plus point sticking at Tianshu (ST 25) for post-stroke constipation.

Methods

Seventy eligible patients with post-stroke constipation were randomized into a treatment group and a control group, 35 cases in each group. Both groups were intervened by conventional treatment and care in Western medicine, while the treatment group was also by Tui-pushing the Large Intestine Meridian and point sticking at Tianshu (ST 25). The treatment lasted for 14 d. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by the first defecation time, constipation incidence and Chinese stroke scale (CSS) score.

Results

After treatment, the first defecation time was (1.86 ± 0.74) d in the treatment group, shorter than (2.77 ± 0.83) d in the control group; constipation incidence was 14.3% in the treatment group, significantly lower than 37.1% in the control group, and the between-group differences in the two items were statistically significant (both P<0.05). CSS score in both groups dropped significantly after treatment (both P<0.05); the improvement in the treatment group was better than that in the control group, and the inter-group difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Tui-pushing the Large Intestine Meridian plus point sticking at Tianshu (ST 25) can effectively prevent post-stroke constipation, and can also promote the rehabilitation of nerve functions.

     

Clinical studies on different acupuncture time for primary dysmenorrhea

Objective

To seek the optimal acupuncture time for primary dysmenorrhea and provide clinical basis for optimal acupuncture treatment protocol.

Methods

A total of 90 eligible cases were randomly allocated into three groups, 30 cases in each group. Points Guanyuan (CV 4), bilateral Zusanli (ST 36) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) were selected for patients in all three groups, with a different treatment duration: 15 min in group A, 30 min in group B and 45 min in group C. Then the clinical efficacy in each group was evaluated by pain symptom scoring.

Results

As for the pain symptom scores, there were statistically significant intra-group differences between before and after treatment in three groups (all P<0.05); coupled with statistically significant inter-group differences between group B and the other two groups (both P<0.05). As for clinical efficacy, there were statistical differences between group B and the other two groups (both P<0.05), indicating that 30 min of acupuncture is the optimal duration in the treatment of dysmenorrhea.

Conclusion

With the same needling manipulation, 30 min of acupuncture treatment achieves a better efficacy for primary dysmenorrhea.

     

Effect of acupuncture at points selected from different regions on SCF-kit signaling pathway in diabetic gastroparesis rats

Objective

To observe the effect of acupuncture at points selected from different regions on the positive expression of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and the stem cell factor (SCF) in gastric antrum tissues in diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) rats, and to explore the influence of region-based point selection on the acupoint combination efficacy.

Methods

Sixty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a normal group (group A), a model group (group B), a group of Zusanli (ST 36) plus Zhongwan (CV 12) (group C), a group of Zusanli (ST 36) plus Neiguan (PC 6) (group D), and a group of Zusanli (ST 36) plus non-meridian non-acupoint points (group E), based on the random number table (n=12). DGP rat model was established by single intraperitoneal injection of 2% streptozotocin and common diet. After successful modeling, the rats were treated once a day for 4 weeks. Positive ICC and SCF expressions were measured by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Compared with group A, the gastrointestinal propulsion rate of group B showed a statistically significant decrease (P<0.05). Compared with group B, the gastrointestinal propulsion rate and the expression of ICC in the gastric antrum were significantly higher in group C, group D and group E, and the between-group differences were statistically significant (P<0.05); the expression of C-kit protein in group C was statistically significantly higher than that in group D and group E (P<0.05). The expression of SCF protein was significantly increased in group C than in group B, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Acupuncture can improve the symptoms of delayed gastric emptying in DGP model rats, and regulate the expression of ICC and SCF in gastric antrum tissues. The effect of Zusanli (ST 36) plus Zhongwan (CV 12) in the gastric region is superior to that of the Zusanli (ST 36) plus distal Neiguan (PC 6) or non-meridian non-acupoint point, indicating that region-based point selection is the key factor affecting the effect of acupoint combination.

     

Effects of electroacupuncture of different frequencies on free radicals in hippocampus of mice with vascular dementia

Objective

To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) of three different frequencies (2 Hz, 80 Hz and 2 Hz/80 Hz) on the free radicals in hippocampus of vascular dementia (VD) model mice.

Methods

A total of 100 Kunming mice were randomly divided into a sham operation group, a model group, a 2 Hz EA group, an 80 Hz EA group and a 2 Hz/80 Hz EA group, with 20 mice in each group. The ischemia-reperfusion VD model was established by repeated blockade of bilateral common carotid arteries. Mice in EA groups began EA treatment on the 4th day after the operation. Baihui (GV 20), Dazhui (GV 14), Geshu (BL 17) and Zusanli (ST 36) were punctured and then connected to EA instrument, with different waves of 2 Hz, 80 Hz or 2 Hz/80 Hz (10 min/time) applied accordingly, once a day. During the jumping stand experiment, the learning performance, memory performance and hippocampal calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), changes in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and true choline esterase (TChE) were observed. In hippocampus, the CGRP level was determined by radioimmunoassay; the MDA level was determined by thiobarbituric acid colorimetric method; the activities of NOS and TChE were determined by spectrophotometry; the activity of SOD was determined by xanthine oxidase method.

Results

Compared with the sham operation group, the performances of learning and memory decreased significantly in the model group (P<0.01); in hippocampus, the CGRP level decreased, the MDA level increased, the activities of NOS and TChE increased, and the activity of SOD decreased in the model group. Compared with the model group, the learning and memory performances of the EA groups were significantly improved (P<0.05 or P<0.01); in hippocampus, the CGRP level increased, the MDA level decreased, the NOS and TChE activities decreased, and the SOD activity increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Among EA groups, the 2 Hz/80 Hz EA group was superior to the 2 Hz EA group and the 80 Hz EA group (P<0.05 or P<0.01).

Conclusion

EA can improve the cognitive impairment of mice with ischemia-reperfusion VD. The mechanism may be related to the improvement of cerebral blood circulation, regulation of the central neurotransmitters, fighting lipid peroxidation and promoting nerve cell repair. The therapeutic effects of EA with different frequencies were different, and the intervention effect by EA at 2 Hz/80Hz is the most significant.

     

Effect of electroacupuncture on expressions of acetylcholine and mucin 5AC in the lungs of rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Objective

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expressions of acetylcholine (ACh) and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in the lungs of rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and explore the mechanism of EA in treating COPD.

Methods

Thirty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into a control group, a COPD group, and an EA group, with 10 rats in each group. The control group was a group of normal rats. The COPD rat model was induced by cigarette smoke combined with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The COPD rats were treated with EA at bilateral Feishu (BL 13) and Zusanli (ST 36) in the EA group, 30 min each time, once a day, successively for 14 d. The lung function was tested. The contents of ACh and MUC5AC in lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pearson method was used to analyze the correlation between pulmonary function and the content of MUC5AC in lungs. The mRNA and protein expressions of MUC5AC in lung tissues were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot (WB), respectively. The immune response of MUC5AC was observed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Eight rats were left in each group, and the other two died. Compared with the control group, the total airway resistance (Raw) increased significantly and dynamic compliance (Cdyn) decreased significantly in the COPD group (P<0.01); compared with the COPD group, the Raw level declined significantly and Cdyn increased significantly in the EA group (P<0.01). The contents of ACh and MUC5AC in the lungs and BALF were remarkably higher in the COPD group compared with those in the control group (P<0.01, P<0.001); compared with the COPD group, the contents of ACh and MUC5AC were significantly lower in the EA group (P<0.05, P<0.001). There was a negative correlation between MUC5AC content and lung function (P<0.001). The mRNA and protein expressions of MUC5AC in the lungs were significantly higher in the COPD group than in the control group (P<0.001); compared with the COPD group, the expressions were significantly lower in the EA group (P<0.01). Compared with the control group, the immune response of MUC5AC in the airway epithelium significantly increased in the COPD group (P<0.001); the immune response of MUC5AC was significantly lower in the EA group compared with that in the COPD group (P<0.001).

Conclusion

EA treatment can improve the lung function of COPD rats, which may be related to its effect in the down-regulation of ACh and MUC5AC contents in the lungs as well as the inhibition of mucus hypersecretion.

     

Clinical observation on electroacupuncture at four sacral points for overactive bladder syndrome

Objective

To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at four sacral points on overactive bladder syndrome.

Methods

A total of 120 female patients with overactive bladder syndrome were allocated to a treatment group of 80 cases and a control group of 40 cases on a voluntary basis. The patients in the treatment group received EA at four sacral points, and the treatment was given three times a week for 6 consecutive weeks, while the patients in the control group received oral administration of M-receptor antagonist tolterodine tartrate, which was given 4 mg each time, once a day for 6 consecutive weeks. Then the symptom scores were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.

Results

At the end of treatment, the symptom scores showed statistical significant differences in comparing with those before treatment in both groups (both P<0.01); the symptom score in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group, showing a statistically significant difference (P<0.05).

Conclusion

EA at four sacral points is an effective method for overactive bladder syndrome.

     

Clinical observation on electroacupuncture plus hydro-acupuncture for low back pain caused by compression fractures

Objective

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points plus hydro-acupuncture with sinomenine hydrochloride for low back pain caused by compression fractures in the elderly.

Methods

Ninety-five elderly in-patients with low back pain caused by compression fractures were randomly divided into an observation group and an EA group according to the visit sequence. Both groups received the same basic treatment. In the EA group, 48 cases were treated with EA at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points plus the basic therapy; 47 cases in the observation group received the basic treatment plus EA and hydro-acupuncture with sinomenine hydrochloride at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points. The levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in peripheral blood were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) before and at the 21st day of treatment in both groups. Oswestry disability index (ODI) and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were used to analyze the clinical efficacy.

Results

After treatment, the OPG content in the observation group was higher with statistical significance compared with that before treatment in the observation group and after the treatment in the EA group, respectively (both P<0.05); the content of IL-1β, ODI and VAS scores were lower than those before treatment in the observation group and after treatment in the EA group with statistical significances (all P<0.05).

Conclusion

The combination of EA and hydro-acupuncture with sinomenine hydrochloride at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points is effective for low back pain caused by compression fractures in the elderly, and is superior to EA at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points alone.

     

调督安神针法治疗失眠症疗效观察（英文）

目的:观察调督安神针法对失眠症的疗效,传承燕赵高氏针灸学术思想。方法:将68例失眠症患者按随机数字表随机分为针刺组及药物组,每组34例。针刺组采用调督安神针法治疗,每日1次,每星期治疗5次,休息2d,共治疗4星期。药物组予艾司唑仑片治疗,每日1mg,睡前口服,共治疗4星期。治疗前后采用匹兹堡睡眠质量指数(Pittsburgh sleep quality index,PSQI)评价睡眠质量,根据P SQI减分率评定疗效。结果:治疗后,针刺组PSQI总分及各单项评分均明显下降,与本组治疗前有统计学差异(均P<0.01);药物组P SQI总分明显下降,与本组治疗前差异有统计学意义(均P<0.01),除睡眠障碍外,其余各单项积分均较治疗前下降(P<0.01或P<0.05)。针刺组治疗后P SQI总分明显低于药物组(P<0.01)。除入睡时间及睡眠时间外,针刺组睡眠质量、睡眠效率、睡眠障碍及日间功能障碍评分均低于药物组,组间差异有统计学意义(均P<0.05)。针刺组愈显率显著高于药物组(P<0.05)。结论:调督安神针法治疗失眠疗效确切,疗效优于口服艾司唑仑片。