Pub Date : 2025-07-14DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101201
Mi Hye Kim , Seong Chul Jin , Woong Mo Yang
Background
Excessive fat deposition in localized adiposity is known to induce severe medical diseases as well as aesthetic problems. Of late, LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture, a new herbal pharmacopuncture consisting of the cortex of Morus alba and bark of Magnolia officinalis, is developed as a non-surgical injection for dissolving localized fat deposits.
Methods
The network pharmacology analysis was carried out with the target gene sets of constituents of M. alba and M. officinalis. Male C57BL/6 J mice were induced obesity and injected LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture into inguinal fat pad. The fat weight and size were analyzed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry.
Results
The possible pathways and mechanism of action of LIPOSA-T were found to be mainly related to the fatty acid biosynthesis, glycolysis and glycogenesis in KEGG Pathways database. Subcutaneous injection of the LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture significantly reduced the inguinal fat tissues weight and enlarged adipocyte size. In addition, the phosphorylated IRS with the PEPCK and G6p expressions were increased by the LIPOSA-T injection. Following the increase of AMPK expression, the fatty acid synthesis enzyme and lipolytic enzymes were regulated by the LIPOSA-T.
Conclusions
Taken together, LIPOSA-T exerted the catabolic effects on fat deposition in obesity by regulating the glucose production, lipid synthesis and TAG hydrolysis in consistent with the prediction results. Based on the findings, LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture is expected to be a dissolving injection for localized fat.
{"title":"Effects of LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture on localized fat as a fat dissolving injection via regulation of fat metabolism","authors":"Mi Hye Kim , Seong Chul Jin , Woong Mo Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101201","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101201","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Excessive fat deposition in localized adiposity is known to induce severe medical diseases as well as aesthetic problems. Of late, LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture, a new herbal pharmacopuncture consisting of the cortex of <em>Morus alba</em> and bark of <em>Magnolia officinalis</em>, is developed as a non-surgical injection for dissolving localized fat deposits.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The network pharmacology analysis was carried out with the target gene sets of constituents of <em>M. alba</em> and <em>M. officinalis</em>. Male C57BL/6 J mice were induced obesity and injected LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture into inguinal fat pad. The fat weight and size were analyzed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The possible pathways and mechanism of action of LIPOSA-T were found to be mainly related to the fatty acid biosynthesis, glycolysis and glycogenesis in KEGG Pathways database. Subcutaneous injection of the LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture significantly reduced the inguinal fat tissues weight and enlarged adipocyte size. In addition, the phosphorylated IRS with the PEPCK and G6p expressions were increased by the LIPOSA-T injection. Following the increase of AMPK expression, the fatty acid synthesis enzyme and lipolytic enzymes were regulated by the LIPOSA-T.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Taken together, LIPOSA-T exerted the catabolic effects on fat deposition in obesity by regulating the glucose production, lipid synthesis and TAG hydrolysis in consistent with the prediction results. Based on the findings, LIPOSA-T pharmacopuncture is expected to be a dissolving injection for localized fat.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 4","pages":"Article 101201"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144852718","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-14DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101199
Sheri L Robb , Stacey Springs , Emmeline Edwards , Tasha L. Golden , Julene K. Johnson , Debra S. Burns , Melita Belgrave , Joke Bradt , Christian Gold , Assal Habibi , John R. Iversen , Miriam Lense , Jessica A. MacLean , Susan M. Perkins
Background
Detailed intervention reporting is essential to interpretation, replication, and translation of music-based interventions (MBIs). The 2011 Reporting Guidelines for Music-Based Interventions were developed to improve transparency and reporting quality of published research; however, problems with reporting quality persist.
Methods
The purpose of this study was to update and validate the 2011 reporting guidelines using rigorous Delphi approach that involved an interdisciplinary group of MBI researchers; and to develop an explanation and elaboration guidance statement to support dissemination and usage. We followed the methodological framework for developing reporting guidelines recommended by the EQUATOR Network and guidance recommendations for developing health research reporting guidelines. Our three-stage process included: (1) an initial field scan, (2) a consensus process using Delphi surveys (two rounds) and Expert Panel meetings, and (3) development and dissemination of an explanation and elaboration document.
Results
First-Round survey findings revealed that the original checklist items were capturing content that investigators deemed essential to MBI reporting; however, it also revealed problems with item wording and terminology. Subsequent Expert Panel meetings and the Second-Round survey centered on reaching consensus for item language. The revised RG-MBI checklist has a total of 12-items that pertain to eight different components of MBI interventions including name, theory/scientific rationale, content, interventionist, individual/group, setting, delivery schedule, and treatment fidelity.
Conclusion
We recommend that authors, journal editors, and reviewers use the RG-MBI guidelines, in conjunction with methods-based guidelines (e.g., CONSORT) to accelerate and improve the scientific rigor of MBI research.
{"title":"Reporting guidelines for music-based interventions: An update and validation study","authors":"Sheri L Robb , Stacey Springs , Emmeline Edwards , Tasha L. Golden , Julene K. Johnson , Debra S. Burns , Melita Belgrave , Joke Bradt , Christian Gold , Assal Habibi , John R. Iversen , Miriam Lense , Jessica A. MacLean , Susan M. Perkins","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101199","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101199","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Detailed intervention reporting is essential to interpretation, replication, and translation of music-based interventions (MBIs). The 2011 <em>Reporting Guidelines for Music-Based Interventions</em> were developed to improve transparency and reporting quality of published research; however, problems with reporting quality persist.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The purpose of this study was to update and validate the 2011 reporting guidelines using rigorous Delphi approach that involved an interdisciplinary group of MBI researchers; and to develop an explanation and elaboration guidance statement to support dissemination and usage. We followed the methodological framework for developing reporting guidelines recommended by the EQUATOR Network and guidance recommendations for developing health research reporting guidelines. Our three-stage process included: (1) an initial field scan, (2) a consensus process using Delphi surveys (two rounds) and Expert Panel meetings, and (3) development and dissemination of an explanation and elaboration document.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>First-Round survey findings revealed that the original checklist items were capturing content that investigators deemed essential to MBI reporting; however, it also revealed problems with item wording and terminology. Subsequent Expert Panel meetings and the Second-Round survey centered on reaching consensus for item language. The revised RG-MBI checklist has a total of 12-items that pertain to eight different components of MBI interventions including name, theory/scientific rationale, content, interventionist, individual/group, setting, delivery schedule, and treatment fidelity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>We recommend that authors, journal editors, and reviewers use the RG-MBI guidelines, in conjunction with methods-based guidelines (e.g., CONSORT) to accelerate and improve the scientific rigor of MBI research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101199"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144724025","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-05DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101197
Theresa Bauer , Weronika Grabowska , Miriam Ortiz , Judith Bellmann-Strobl , Ute Engelhardt , Rainer Nögel , Josef Hummelsberger , Andreas Michalsen , Stephanie Roll , Barbara Stöckigt , Hosnya Batram , Anna Mietzner , Carmen Scheibenbogen , Stefan N. Willich , Friedemann Paul , Benno Brinkhaus , Joanna Dietzel
Background
Post COVID-19 syndrome (PCS), characterized by persistent fatigue and multi-systemic symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection, emerged as a clinical challenge with limited treatment options and high patient burden. This paper presents the medication history and clinical baseline characteristics of PCS patients recruited in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
Methods
Patients who reported PCS symptoms of ≥12 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection and who met defined fatigue criteria were included in this study. At baseline we assessed among others demographic data, symptom burden, medication history including off-label drug use, dietary supplements, and complementary self-help strategies.
Results
Altogether 235 adult PCS-patients were recruited between June 2022 and June 2023. The study population (mean age 42.1 years, 85.1 % female) reported a mean PCS duration of 56.4 weeks, with 74 % on sick leave. Patients frequently used off-label medications (e.g. antihistamines 9.4 %), supplements (vitamin D 53.6 %, minerals 50.2 %), and herbal medicine products (32.3 %). Most PCS patients had prior experience with complementary medicine. Correlations between fatigue and depressive symptoms (PHQ-9) were modest but notable. No strong associations were found between fatigue and age, sex, PCS duration, or vaccination status.
Conclusion
PCS-patients suffered from long-term complaints that led to a long period of sick leave and resorted to diverse, largely unproven therapeutic strategies amid clinical uncertainty. This baseline analysis highlights the unmet needs of PCS patients. Understanding these baseline patterns is essential for optimizing care pathways and patient-centered management strategies in PCS.
{"title":"Self-medication and off-label prescribing in post COVID-19 syndrome: Baseline data of a randomized acupressure and qigong trial","authors":"Theresa Bauer , Weronika Grabowska , Miriam Ortiz , Judith Bellmann-Strobl , Ute Engelhardt , Rainer Nögel , Josef Hummelsberger , Andreas Michalsen , Stephanie Roll , Barbara Stöckigt , Hosnya Batram , Anna Mietzner , Carmen Scheibenbogen , Stefan N. Willich , Friedemann Paul , Benno Brinkhaus , Joanna Dietzel","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101197","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101197","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Post COVID-19 syndrome (PCS), characterized by persistent fatigue and multi-systemic symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection, emerged as a clinical challenge with limited treatment options and high patient burden. This paper presents the medication history and clinical baseline characteristics of PCS patients recruited in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Patients who reported PCS symptoms of ≥12 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection and who met defined fatigue criteria were included in this study. At baseline we assessed among others demographic data, symptom burden, medication history including off-label drug use, dietary supplements, and complementary self-help strategies.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Altogether 235 adult PCS-patients were recruited between June 2022 and June 2023. The study population (mean age 42.1 years, 85.1 % female) reported a mean PCS duration of 56.4 weeks, with 74 % on sick leave. Patients frequently used off-label medications (e.g. antihistamines 9.4 %), supplements (vitamin D 53.6 %, minerals 50.2 %), and herbal medicine products (32.3 %). Most PCS patients had prior experience with complementary medicine. Correlations between fatigue and depressive symptoms (PHQ-9) were modest but notable. No strong associations were found between fatigue and age, sex, PCS duration, or vaccination status.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>PCS-patients suffered from long-term complaints that led to a long period of sick leave and resorted to diverse, largely unproven therapeutic strategies amid clinical uncertainty. This baseline analysis highlights the unmet needs of PCS patients. Understanding these baseline patterns is essential for optimizing care pathways and patient-centered management strategies in PCS.</div></div><div><h3>Trial registration</h3><div>Clinicaltrial.gov (NCT05289154).</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101197"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-07-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144662144","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-05DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101198
Beomku Kang, Younbyoung Chae
{"title":"Naming the unseen: Rethinking the ontology of acupoints","authors":"Beomku Kang, Younbyoung Chae","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101198","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101198","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101198"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-07-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144662146","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-06-26DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101196
Yuhang Liu , Mingzhu Sun , Yixuan Wang , Yingchen Li , Ziliang Zhang , Liujie Ren , Wei Yao , Yi Yu
Background
To understand the effect and mechanism of different acupuncture durations on analgesic effects.
Methods
An adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model evaluated the therapeutic effects of acupuncture at the Zusanli acupoint (ST36). A robotic arm provided stable lifting-thrusting stimulation for different durations (2, 5, 10, 20, and 30 min). Mechanical and thermal pain thresholds were measured before and after treatment to assess the analgesic effects. Additionally, tissue sections from ST36 were stained and analyzed to assess mast cell degranulation rates, and in vitro stretching experiments were performed at different stretching times (0–60 min) to measure the release of histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and leukotrienes.
Results
Within the 30 min acupuncture duration range set in this study, the pain threshold recovery rate in rats exhibited a steady upward trend as the acupuncture duration gradually increased, reaching its optimal level between 20 and 30 min. The mast cell degranulation rate exhibited a similar time-related trend, reaching 80–90 % at 20–30 min. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the pain threshold recovery rate and mast cell degranulation rate. In the cell-stretching experiment, the release of biochemical mediators was time-dependent.
Conclusions
In the adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model, the analgesic effect observed at 20–30 min was superior to that observed at shorter durations, which was associated with the mast cell degranulation rate and release of biochemical mediators in the tissue.
{"title":"Mast cell degranulation mediates analgesic effects of acupuncture at different stimulation durations in arthritic rats","authors":"Yuhang Liu , Mingzhu Sun , Yixuan Wang , Yingchen Li , Ziliang Zhang , Liujie Ren , Wei Yao , Yi Yu","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101196","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101196","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>To understand the effect and mechanism of different acupuncture durations on analgesic effects.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>An adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model evaluated the therapeutic effects of acupuncture at the Zusanli acupoint (ST36). A robotic arm provided stable lifting-thrusting stimulation for different durations (2, 5, 10, 20, and 30 min). Mechanical and thermal pain thresholds were measured before and after treatment to assess the analgesic effects. Additionally, tissue sections from ST36 were stained and analyzed to assess mast cell degranulation rates, and in vitro stretching experiments were performed at different stretching times (0–60 min) to measure the release of histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and leukotrienes.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Within the 30 min acupuncture duration range set in this study, the pain threshold recovery rate in rats exhibited a steady upward trend as the acupuncture duration gradually increased, reaching its optimal level between 20 and 30 min. The mast cell degranulation rate exhibited a similar time-related trend, reaching 80–90 % at 20–30 min. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the pain threshold recovery rate and mast cell degranulation rate. In the cell-stretching experiment, the release of biochemical mediators was time-dependent.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In the adjuvant-induced arthritis rat model, the analgesic effect observed at 20–30 min was superior to that observed at shorter durations, which was associated with the mast cell degranulation rate and release of biochemical mediators in the tissue.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101196"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-06-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144662145","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-06-21DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101195
Arya Nielsen , L. Susan Wieland
Background
Because Cochrane reviews represent a quality standard for systematic reviews, we sought to clarify to what extent Cochrane reviews of acupuncture characterize the potential and problematic specific effects of sham acupuncture.
Methods
We imported records of Cochrane acupuncture reviews into Covidence and independently selected reviews with at least one included study comparing manual acupuncture to sham acupuncture. Dual data extraction for eligible reviews included review author expertise, evaluation of intervention adequacy, use of STRICTA guidelines, characterization of sham methods, and whether specific effects of sham were discussed relative to needle penetration, point selection or use of a sham device.
Results
Of the 56 reviews with acupuncture in the title, 16 were ineligible. Of the 40 included reviews, 28 were published in or before 2018. Most reviews had an author with acupuncture trial expertise; however, assessment of intervention adequacy was rarely conducted, STRICTA guidelines were rarely utilized, and reporting of sham acupuncture methods was commonly either missing or lacking rigor. While 20/40 reviews acknowledged the controversy regarding sham as an active and therefore inadequate control, no reviews incorporated this into their conclusions.
Conclusion
Most Cochrane reviews of acupuncture therapy are dated and are also not current relative to the science of acupuncture biomechanism and the impact of ‘active’ sham arms. The handling of sham controls, combined with a lack of evaluation of verum intervention adequacy, contravenes a clear research standard and indicates that the efficacy of acupuncture is likely underestimated in Cochrane reviews.
{"title":"Cochrane reviews of acupuncture are dated, do not account for the specific effects of sham controls and likely underestimate the efficacy of acupuncture therapy","authors":"Arya Nielsen , L. Susan Wieland","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101195","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101195","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Because Cochrane reviews represent a quality standard for systematic reviews, we sought to clarify to what extent Cochrane reviews of acupuncture characterize the potential and problematic specific effects of sham acupuncture.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We imported records of Cochrane acupuncture reviews into Covidence and independently selected reviews with at least one included study comparing manual acupuncture to sham acupuncture. Dual data extraction for eligible reviews included review author expertise, evaluation of intervention adequacy, use of STRICTA guidelines, characterization of sham methods, and whether specific effects of sham were discussed relative to needle penetration, point selection or use of a sham device.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of the 56 reviews with acupuncture in the title, 16 were ineligible. Of the 40 included reviews, 28 were published in or before 2018. Most reviews had an author with acupuncture trial expertise; however, assessment of intervention adequacy was rarely conducted, STRICTA guidelines were rarely utilized, and reporting of sham acupuncture methods was commonly either missing or lacking rigor. While 20/40 reviews acknowledged the controversy regarding sham as an active and therefore inadequate control, no reviews incorporated this into their conclusions.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Most Cochrane reviews of acupuncture therapy are dated and are also not current relative to the science of acupuncture biomechanism and the impact of ‘active’ sham arms. The handling of sham controls, combined with a lack of evaluation of verum intervention adequacy, contravenes a clear research standard and indicates that the efficacy of acupuncture is likely underestimated in Cochrane reviews.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101195"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-06-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144517613","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-06-19DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101184
Vibhuti S. Rao , Sabrina Gupta , Mike Armour , Birinder S. Cheema , Caroline A Smith , Lisa Moran , Vandana Baranwal , Carolyn Ee
Background
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) use traditional medicines such as Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) to manage their symptoms. Dietary and lifestyle advice is one of the major components of Ayurveda treatment, however, it remains unexplored. This study aimed to understand the perspectives of Ayurveda clinicians regarding PCOS and excess weight, and its management through diet and lifestyle.
Methods
A qualitative methodology was implemented using online focus group discussion. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis. Ayurveda clinicians who fulfilled the predefined eligibility criteria were included.
Results
Ten eligible Ayurveda clinicians participated in the focus group. Five categories with relevant sub-categories were identified: characteristics of women visiting Ayurveda clinicians; Ayurveda clinical toolkit for understanding clinical presentations; Ayurveda dietary approach to managing excess weight; advice related to dietary adjustments; and advice related to eating and lifestyle behaviours. Overall, most clinicians agree that an Ayurveda dietary approach is personalized, and tailored to the health needs, primarily based on Ayurveda assessment and the clinical presentation of an individual with PCOS and excess weight.
Conclusion
Consistent with ‘Recommendations from the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of PCOS’ Ayurveda clinicians advocate for a cultural-specific, lifelong healthy lifestyle for optimum management of PCOS beyond weight reduction. Ayurveda lifestyle counselling provides extensive insights into holistic food and lifestyle practices that individuals may adapt to their day-to-day lives. Further research may utilize consensus methods to explore potential dietary interventions and assess their effectiveness and adaptability in women with PCOS.
{"title":"Perspectives and dietary management of excess weight in polycystic ovary syndrome: A focus group study with clinicians of traditional Indian medicine","authors":"Vibhuti S. Rao , Sabrina Gupta , Mike Armour , Birinder S. Cheema , Caroline A Smith , Lisa Moran , Vandana Baranwal , Carolyn Ee","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101184","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101184","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) use traditional medicines such as Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) to manage their symptoms. Dietary and lifestyle advice is one of the major components of Ayurveda treatment, however, it remains unexplored. This study aimed to understand the perspectives of Ayurveda clinicians regarding PCOS and excess weight, and its management through diet and lifestyle.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A qualitative methodology was implemented using online focus group discussion. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis. Ayurveda clinicians who fulfilled the predefined eligibility criteria were included.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Ten eligible Ayurveda clinicians participated in the focus group. Five categories with relevant sub-categories were identified: characteristics of women visiting Ayurveda clinicians; Ayurveda clinical toolkit for understanding clinical presentations; Ayurveda dietary approach to managing excess weight; advice related to dietary adjustments; and advice related to eating and lifestyle behaviours. Overall, most clinicians agree that an Ayurveda dietary approach is personalized, and tailored to the health needs, primarily based on Ayurveda assessment and the clinical presentation of an individual with PCOS and excess weight.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Consistent with ‘Recommendations from the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of PCOS’ Ayurveda clinicians advocate for a cultural-specific, lifelong healthy lifestyle for optimum management of PCOS beyond weight reduction. Ayurveda lifestyle counselling provides extensive insights into holistic food and lifestyle practices that individuals may adapt to their day-to-day lives. Further research may utilize consensus methods to explore potential dietary interventions and assess their effectiveness and adaptability in women with PCOS.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101184"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-06-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144670182","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-06-17DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101181
Jeremy Y. Ng , Dimity Stephen , Jianping Liu , Thomas Ostermann , Nicola Robinson , Holger Cramer
This educational article explores the utility of bibliometrics and altmetrics in evaluating traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) research. We introduce the concept of bibliometrics and altmetrics, provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges in using these analytical techniques, and highlight their future potential in TCIM research. Bibliometrics, based on publication and citation information, offer insights into TCIM research activity, output, scholarly influence, field structure, and collaboration practices. Altmetrics, including social media mentions, downloads, and online bookmarks, can capture the broader societal engagement with TCIM research beyond traditional academic circles. We discuss challenges and opportunities in utilizing these metrics effectively, such as addressing biases, incorporating cultural nuances, and exploring emerging trends. Additionally, we issue a call to action for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to collaborate and leverage bibliometric and altmetric data to advance evidence-based healthcare practices to promote integrative approaches to health and wellness. By embracing a multidimensional approach to research evaluation, stakeholders can harness the potential of bibliometrics and altmetrics to improve TCIM research and healthcare delivery worldwide.
{"title":"Bibliometrics and altmetrics in the context of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine","authors":"Jeremy Y. Ng , Dimity Stephen , Jianping Liu , Thomas Ostermann , Nicola Robinson , Holger Cramer","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101181","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101181","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This educational article explores the utility of bibliometrics and altmetrics in evaluating traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) research. We introduce the concept of bibliometrics and altmetrics, provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges in using these analytical techniques, and highlight their future potential in TCIM research. Bibliometrics, based on publication and citation information, offer insights into TCIM research activity, output, scholarly influence, field structure, and collaboration practices. Altmetrics, including social media mentions, downloads, and online bookmarks, can capture the broader societal engagement with TCIM research beyond traditional academic circles. We discuss challenges and opportunities in utilizing these metrics effectively, such as addressing biases, incorporating cultural nuances, and exploring emerging trends. Additionally, we issue a call to action for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to collaborate and leverage bibliometric and altmetric data to advance evidence-based healthcare practices to promote integrative approaches to health and wellness. By embracing a multidimensional approach to research evaluation, stakeholders can harness the potential of bibliometrics and altmetrics to improve TCIM research and healthcare delivery worldwide.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101181"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-06-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144653596","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-06-16DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101175
Jun-Yong Choi , Bom Choi , Ojin Kwon , Chang-Seob Seo , Ae-Ran Kim , Hyeun-kyoo Shin , Kibong Kim
{"title":"Corrigendum to: “Efficacy and safety of herbal medicine Gongjin-Dan and Ssanghwa-Tang in patients with chronic fatigue: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial” Integr Med Res 2024;13:101025","authors":"Jun-Yong Choi , Bom Choi , Ojin Kwon , Chang-Seob Seo , Ae-Ran Kim , Hyeun-kyoo Shin , Kibong Kim","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101175","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101175","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 4","pages":"Article 101175"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144921355","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-06-16DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2025.101178
Sarah Mockler , Yun-Ju Fang , U-Ter Aondo Jia , Jinho Park , Joo Hyun Kim , Yoonjung Park , Adam J. Chicco , Masataka Umeda , Sukho Lee , Eunhee Chung
Background
Muscle atrophy leads to debilitating loss of physical capacity, particularly when alternative treatments are needed. Acupuncture is proposed as a potential therapy for disuse atrophy, but its effects on muscle biology remain unclear. This study evaluated the effects of acupuncture on soleus muscle mass and mitochondrial function in a rat model of immobilization-induced atrophy.
Methods
Female Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to three groups: Control (CON), casting-induced immobilization (CT), and CT with acupuncture (CT-A) (n = 8). Immobilization of the left hindlimb lasted for 14 days, and acupuncture was performed at specific acupoints (stomach-36, gallbladder-34) three times per week for 15 min. Mitochondrial function was assessed in saponin-permeabilized fibers, and signaling molecules regulating muscle mass were analyzed by Western blot.
Results
CT-A attenuated soleus muscle atrophy compared to CT. Under fatty acid substrate conditions, CT reduced complex I and II-supported oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) compared to CON, while CT-A decreased respiratory leak and enhanced OXPHOS coupling relative to CT. Without fatty acids, CT-A decreased both respiratory leak and complex I and II-supported OXPHOS compared to CON, but differences between CT and CT-A were not significant. AMPKα activity (p-AMPKα/AMPKα) was significantly elevated in the CT group compared to the CON group, but returned to CON levels in the CT-A group. However, there were no changes in proteins associated with muscle atrophy or autophagy markers among the groups.
Conclusion
Acupuncture mitigates immobilization-induced muscle atrophy and preserves mitochondrial function, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for muscle disuse conditions.
{"title":"Acupuncture treatment preserves soleus muscle mass and improves mitochondrial function in a rat model of disuse atrophy","authors":"Sarah Mockler , Yun-Ju Fang , U-Ter Aondo Jia , Jinho Park , Joo Hyun Kim , Yoonjung Park , Adam J. Chicco , Masataka Umeda , Sukho Lee , Eunhee Chung","doi":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101178","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.imr.2025.101178","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Muscle atrophy leads to debilitating loss of physical capacity, particularly when alternative treatments are needed. Acupuncture is proposed as a potential therapy for disuse atrophy, but its effects on muscle biology remain unclear. This study evaluated the effects of acupuncture on soleus muscle mass and mitochondrial function in a rat model of immobilization-induced atrophy.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Female Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to three groups: Control (CON), casting-induced immobilization (CT), and CT with acupuncture (CT-A) (<em>n</em> = 8). Immobilization of the left hindlimb lasted for 14 days, and acupuncture was performed at specific acupoints (stomach-36, gallbladder-34) three times per week for 15 min. Mitochondrial function was assessed in saponin-permeabilized fibers, and signaling molecules regulating muscle mass were analyzed by Western blot.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>CT-A attenuated soleus muscle atrophy compared to CT. Under fatty acid substrate conditions, CT reduced complex I and II-supported oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) compared to CON, while CT-A decreased respiratory leak and enhanced OXPHOS coupling relative to CT. Without fatty acids, CT-A decreased both respiratory leak and complex I and II-supported OXPHOS compared to CON, but differences between CT and CT-A were not significant. AMPKα activity (p-AMPKα/AMPKα) was significantly elevated in the CT group compared to the CON group, but returned to CON levels in the CT-A group. However, there were no changes in proteins associated with muscle atrophy or autophagy markers among the groups.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Acupuncture mitigates immobilization-induced muscle atrophy and preserves mitochondrial function, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for muscle disuse conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":13644,"journal":{"name":"Integrative Medicine Research","volume":"14 3","pages":"Article 101178"},"PeriodicalIF":2.8,"publicationDate":"2025-06-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144502294","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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