Retinal ischemia-reperfusion (RIR) injury results in irreversible visual impairments. The disruption of the outer blood-retinal barrier (OBRB) is a major ocular pathogenic process that RIR injury affects. Current clinical strategies are limited. This study aimed to elucidate how electroacupuncture (EA) protects the OBRB against RIR injury.
Methods
Male Wistar rats (7 weeks old, 250 g to 280 g) were used in this study. Three independent experiments were conducted. First, Opioid peptide levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). 42 rats were randomly divided into 7 groups (n = 6/group): Control: No treatment; high intraocular pressure(HIOP): Acute intraocular pressure elevation-induced RIR injury; HIOP + SHAM EA: RIR injury + sham EA at Xinming (Extra acupoint) and Jingming (BL1) for 30 min (shallow needle insertion but without electric stimulation); HIOP + 2 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; HIOP +100 Hz: RIR injury + 100 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; HIOP + 2/100 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2/100 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; HIOP + 4/20 Hz EA: RIR injury + 4/20 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min. Second, retinal morphology was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. 20 rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups (n = 5/group): Control: No treatment; HIOP: Acute intraocular pressure elevation-induced RIR injury; HIOP + SHAM EA: RIR injury + sham EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min (shallow needle insertion but without electric stimulation); HIOP + 2 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min. Third, the permeability of OBRB was evaluated using the fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)-dextran leakage assay. 15 rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 3/group): Control: No treatment; HIOP: Acute intraocular pressure elevation-induced RIR injury; HIOP + SHAM EA: RIR injury + sham EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min (shallow needle insertion but without electric stimulation); HIOP + 2 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; Nal + HIOP + 2 Hz EA: Intravitreal injection of δ-opioid receptor antagonist Naltridole (10µl, 100 nM) 30 min before RIR injury induction, followed by 2 Hz EA treatment at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min. In vitro studies examined enkephalins' effects on oxygen–glucose deprivation /reperfusion (OGD/R) induced injury in ARPE‐19 cells. Cell viability was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, and morphological changes were recorded by Molecular Devices. Apoptosis was detected by Annexin V-FITC flow cytometry. Delta opioid receptor (DOR) expression in total protein and membrane protein were analyzed by western blotting (WB). Immunofluorescence (IF) staining and WB assessed ZO-1 and Claudin-19. For cell-based assays, n indicates the number of biologically independent replicates.
{"title":"Electroacupuncture attenuates retinal ischemia/reperfusion injury by protecting the outer blood-retina barrier via enkephalins activate delta opioid receptor","authors":"Ping CHEN (陈平) , Xian-dan ZHU (朱娴丹) , Run-jie GUO (郭润杰) , Yong XIA (夏勇) , Jing-ling JIN (金京玲) , Nan-ge JIN (金南革) , Ying-min GU (谷颖敏) , Xue-song TIAN (田雪松)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.05.001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.05.001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Retinal ischemia-reperfusion (RIR) injury results in irreversible visual impairments. The disruption of the outer blood-retinal barrier (OBRB) is a major ocular pathogenic process that RIR injury affects. Current clinical strategies are limited. This study aimed to elucidate how electroacupuncture (EA) protects the OBRB against RIR injury.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Male Wistar rats (7 weeks old, 250 g to 280 g) were used in this study. Three independent experiments were conducted. First, Opioid peptide levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). 42 rats were randomly divided into 7 groups (<em>n</em> = 6/group): Control: No treatment; high intraocular pressure(HIOP): Acute intraocular pressure elevation-induced RIR injury; HIOP + SHAM EA: RIR injury + sham EA at Xinming (Extra acupoint) and Jingming (BL1) for 30 min (shallow needle insertion but without electric stimulation); HIOP + 2 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; HIOP +100 Hz: RIR injury + 100 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; HIOP + 2/100 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2/100 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; HIOP + 4/20 Hz EA: RIR injury + 4/20 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min. Second, retinal morphology was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. 20 rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups (<em>n</em> = 5/group): Control: No treatment; HIOP: Acute intraocular pressure elevation-induced RIR injury; HIOP + SHAM EA: RIR injury + sham EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min (shallow needle insertion but without electric stimulation); HIOP + 2 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min. Third, the permeability of OBRB was evaluated using the fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)-dextran leakage assay. 15 rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (<em>n</em> = 3/group): Control: No treatment; HIOP: Acute intraocular pressure elevation-induced RIR injury; HIOP + SHAM EA: RIR injury + sham EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min (shallow needle insertion but without electric stimulation); HIOP + 2 Hz EA: RIR injury + 2 Hz EA at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min; Nal + HIOP + 2 Hz EA: Intravitreal injection of δ-opioid receptor antagonist Naltridole (10µl, 100 nM) 30 min before RIR injury induction, followed by 2 Hz EA treatment at Xinming and BL1 for 30 min. In vitro studies examined enkephalins' effects on oxygen–glucose deprivation /reperfusion (OGD/R) induced injury in ARPE‐19 cells. Cell viability was evaluated by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, and morphological changes were recorded by Molecular Devices. Apoptosis was detected by Annexin V-FITC flow cytometry. Delta opioid receptor (DOR) expression in total protein and membrane protein were analyzed by western blotting (WB). Immunofluorescence (IF) staining and WB assessed ZO-1 and Claudin-19. For cell-based assays, n indicates the number of biologically independent replicates.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>It was found that 2 Hz EA treatment ","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 3","pages":"Pages 238-253"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810491","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 : 2025-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.002
Jie LIN (林捷) , Kai-yu CUI (崔凯宇) , Yu-jia LI (李雨佳) , Wei-min ZUO (左维敏) , Jing-wen XU (徐靖雯) , Xue-yong SHEN (沈雪勇) , Guang-hong DING (丁光宏) , Xiao-long TANG (汤晓龙) , Li-na WANG (汪丽娜)
Objective
Previous studies indicated a close correlation between manual acupuncture (MA) analgesia and the mobilization of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at the acupoints. This study attempted to investigate whether this relationship is altered with the manipulation patterns of MA. Additionally, we further testified whether these two events parallelly varied with different frequencies of electroacupuncture (EA).
Methods
Male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: blank group, model group, MA group, and EA group. MA group was further divided into four sub-groups: standard MA, sham MA, lifting-thrusting MA, and shallow MA. Similarly, EA group was categorized based on current frequency into 2 Hz, 2–100 Hz, 100 Hz, and ARL67156+100 Hz sub-groups. For the behavioral tests, each group comprised 4–8 rats; for extracellular ATP assessment, each group consisted of 3–6 rats. Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) was injected into the left ankle joint cavity to create an acute adjuvant arthritis (AA) model. A 20-minute session of either MA at left Zusanli (ST36) or EA at bilateral ST36 was administered on AA rats. Thermal hyperalgesia of the hind paw was determined. Extracellular ATP in the interstitial space at ST36 (inters. ATP) was extracted using microdialysis and quantified via a luciferase-luciferin assay.
Results
Modeling induced tenderness at ST36 (P<0.001) and higher ATP mobilization (P<0.05) in response to MA. Both standard MA (P<0.001) and lifting-thrusting manipulation (P<0.001) exhibited a remarkable analgesic effect, which was not observed with sham MA, deep insertion plus retention. Verum MA (P<0.001) rather than sham intervention, significantly elevated inters. ATP levels. Notably, shallow MA, penetrating the skin layer and needling with twirling-rotating, demonstrated analgesia and increasing inters. ATP level (P<0.05). Regarding EA, treatments at frequencies of 2 Hz (P<0.01), 2–100 Hz (P<0.05), and 100 Hz (P<0.05) significantly alleviated pain. Only the 2–100 Hz (P<0.05) and 100 Hz (P<0.01) interventions, particularly in the latter, potentiated ATP mobilization. Preventing ATP hydrolysis dampened the analgesic effects of the standard MA and 100 Hz EA.
Conclusion
There is a general correlation between ATP mobilization at the acupoint and the analgesic effect of MA and EA. However, the underlying mechanisms related to shallow MA and 2 Hz EA remain to be elucidated.
{"title":"The analgesic effect and ATP release at acupuncture points in response to acupuncture with different parameters on arthritis rats","authors":"Jie LIN (林捷) , Kai-yu CUI (崔凯宇) , Yu-jia LI (李雨佳) , Wei-min ZUO (左维敏) , Jing-wen XU (徐靖雯) , Xue-yong SHEN (沈雪勇) , Guang-hong DING (丁光宏) , Xiao-long TANG (汤晓龙) , Li-na WANG (汪丽娜)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Previous studies indicated a close correlation between manual acupuncture (MA) analgesia and the mobilization of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at the acupoints. This study attempted to investigate whether this relationship is altered with the manipulation patterns of MA. Additionally, we further testified whether these two events parallelly varied with different frequencies of electroacupuncture (EA).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Male SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: blank group, model group, MA group, and EA group. MA group was further divided into four sub-groups: standard MA, sham MA, lifting-thrusting MA, and shallow MA. Similarly, EA group was categorized based on current frequency into 2 Hz, 2–100 Hz, 100 Hz, and ARL67156+100 Hz sub-groups. For the behavioral tests, each group comprised 4–8 rats; for extracellular ATP assessment, each group consisted of 3–6 rats. Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) was injected into the left ankle joint cavity to create an acute adjuvant arthritis (AA) model. A 20-minute session of either MA at left Zusanli (ST36) or EA at bilateral ST36 was administered on AA rats. Thermal hyperalgesia of the hind paw was determined. Extracellular ATP in the interstitial space at ST36 (inters. ATP) was extracted using microdialysis and quantified via a luciferase-luciferin assay.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Modeling induced tenderness at ST36 (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.001</em>) and higher ATP mobilization (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.05</em>) in response to MA. Both standard MA (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.001</em>) and lifting-thrusting manipulation (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.001</em>) exhibited a remarkable analgesic effect, which was not observed with sham MA, deep insertion plus retention. Verum MA (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.001</em>) rather than sham intervention, significantly elevated inters. ATP levels. Notably, shallow MA, penetrating the skin layer and needling with twirling-rotating, demonstrated analgesia and increasing inters. ATP level (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.05</em>). Regarding EA, treatments at frequencies of 2 Hz (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.01</em>), 2–100 Hz (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.05</em>), and 100 Hz (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.05</em>) significantly alleviated pain. Only the 2–100 Hz (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.05</em>) and 100 Hz (<em>P</em> <em><</em> <em>0.01</em>) interventions, particularly in the latter, potentiated ATP mobilization. Preventing ATP hydrolysis dampened the analgesic effects of the standard MA and 100 Hz EA.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>There is a general correlation between ATP mobilization at the acupoint and the analgesic effect of MA and EA. However, the underlying mechanisms related to shallow MA and 2 Hz EA remain to be elucidated.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 3","pages":"Pages 254-261"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810492","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 : 2025-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.006
Dan WANG (王丹) , Pei-jing RONG (荣培晶)
Objective
To analyze the electrostimulation parameters and acupoint prescriptions for treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD) based on bibliometric methods.
Methods
The relevant papers were searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI), Wanfang Data, China Science and Technology Journal Database(VIP) and China Biology Medicine disc(Sinomed), dated from January 1st, 2010 to May 31st, 2023. Inclusion criteria of studies: ① “functional dyspepsia” and electric stimulation involved in the title or abstract; and ② related to the assessment of electrostimulation therapy in clinical trials and experimental research for FD. Exclusion criteria of studies: ①duplication or failure to obtain full text; ② published in newspaper, presenting as research achievement, and review; ③nothing related to the acupoint selection; and ④nothing related to the parameters of electrostimulation. Using Excel 2019 and VOSviewer software, acupoint association and the parameters of electrostimulation were analyzed and graphed.
Results
A total of 181 eligible articles were screened. Statistical analysis revealed that the most frequently targeted acupoints for electrostimulation in functional dyspepsia (FD) were Zusanli (ST36), Taichong (LR3), and Neiguan (PC6), while the most commonly utilized auricular point was Erjia (CO, concha zone). The acupoint group demonstrating the strongest association consisted of ST36, LR3, Zhongwan (CV12), and PC6, which constituted the primary prescription for electrostimulation in FD. The optimal parameters for electrostimulation were identified as a disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2/100 Hz, and an intensity of 1 mA. The acupoints ST36, LR3, and PC6 are the most prevalent for electrostimulation in FD, with CO being the most common auricular point. The optimal electrostimulation parameters are a disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2/100 Hz, and an intensity of 1 mA.
Conclusion
The acupoints ST36, LR3, and PC6 are the most prevalent for electrostimulation in FD, with CO being the most common auricular point. The optimal electrostimulation parameters are a disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2/100 Hz, and an intensity of 1 mA.
目的应用文献计量学方法，分析电刺激治疗功能性消化不良（FD）的参数及穴位处方。方法检索PubMed、Web of Science、Embase、中国知网（CNKI）、万方数据、中国科技期刊数据库（VIP）和中国生物医学光盘（Sinomed），检索时间为2010年01月1日~ 2023年05月31日。研究纳入标准：①“功能性消化不良”和电刺激涉及标题或摘要；②与FD临床试验和实验研究中电刺激疗法的评价有关。研究的排除标准：①重复或未能获得全文；②在报纸上发表，作为研究成果展示，并进行评审；③与取穴无关；④与电刺激参数无关。采用Excel 2019和VOSviewer软件对穴位关联和电刺激参数进行分析并作图。结果共筛选出181篇符合条件的文献。统计分析发现，功能性消化不良（FD）电刺激最常针对的穴位为足三里（ST36）、太冲（LR3）、内关（PC6），而最常使用的耳穴为二家（CO，耳廓区）。关联最强的穴位组为ST36、LR3、中脘（CV12）、PC6，构成FD电刺激的主要处方。电刺激的最佳参数为色散密集波，频率为2/100 Hz，强度为1 mA。ST36、LR3、PC6是FD电刺激最常见的穴位，而CO是最常见的耳穴。最佳电刺激参数为色散密集波，频率为2/ 100hz，强度为1ma。结论ST36、LR3、PC6是FD电刺激最常见的穴位，CO是最常见的耳穴。最佳电刺激参数为色散密集波，频率为2/ 100hz，强度为1ma。
{"title":"Rules of acupoint and parameter selection for electrostimulation in treatment of functional dyspepsia based on bibliometrics","authors":"Dan WANG (王丹) , Pei-jing RONG (荣培晶)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.006","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.006","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To analyze the electrostimulation parameters and acupoint prescriptions for treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD) based on bibliometric methods.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The relevant papers were searched from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI), Wanfang Data, China Science and Technology Journal Database(VIP) and China Biology Medicine disc(Sinomed), dated from January 1st, 2010 to May 31st, 2023. Inclusion criteria of studies: ① “functional dyspepsia” and electric stimulation involved in the title or abstract; and ② related to the assessment of electrostimulation therapy in clinical trials and experimental research for FD. Exclusion criteria of studies: ①duplication or failure to obtain full text; ② published in newspaper, presenting as research achievement, and review; ③nothing related to the acupoint selection; and ④nothing related to the parameters of electrostimulation. Using Excel 2019 and VOSviewer software, acupoint association and the parameters of electrostimulation were analyzed and graphed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 181 eligible articles were screened. Statistical analysis revealed that the most frequently targeted acupoints for electrostimulation in functional dyspepsia (FD) were Zusanli (ST36), Taichong (LR3), and Neiguan (PC6), while the most commonly utilized auricular point was Erjia (CO, concha zone). The acupoint group demonstrating the strongest association consisted of ST36, LR3, Zhongwan (CV12), and PC6, which constituted the primary prescription for electrostimulation in FD. The optimal parameters for electrostimulation were identified as a disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2/100 Hz, and an intensity of 1 mA. The acupoints ST36, LR3, and PC6 are the most prevalent for electrostimulation in FD, with CO being the most common auricular point. The optimal electrostimulation parameters are a disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2/100 Hz, and an intensity of 1 mA.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The acupoints ST36, LR3, and PC6 are the most prevalent for electrostimulation in FD, with CO being the most common auricular point. The optimal electrostimulation parameters are a disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2/100 Hz, and an intensity of 1 mA.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 3","pages":"Pages 232-237"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810490","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 : 2025-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.003
Xue-er YAN (严雪儿) , Shu-sheng CUI (崔述生) , Yan-rui WANG (王燕睿) , Mao-yu DING (丁茂裕) , Yi-qing CAI (蔡祎晴) , Pak Hang LUK , Ji-ping ZHAO (赵吉平) , Chao YANG (杨超) , Jia-jia ZHANG (张佳佳) , Zi-chen WANG (王子辰) , Si-yan CHEN (陈思言) , Xiao-min ZANG (臧晓敏) , Yu-hui HUANG (黄钰惠) , Cheng TAN (谭程)
Objective
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for postoperative recovery in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.
Methods
We retrieved articles from PubMed, Embase, OVID, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and Technology Journal Database (VIP) from database inception to November 1, 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examine the use of EA to improve GI function, reduce pain, and promote ability ofself-care after GI cancer surgery were included. Based on the type of control interventions, separate meta-analyses were conducted for EA vs postoperative nursing (PN) and EA vs sham acupuncture (SA). The primary outcomes were the time to first flatus (TFF) and the time to first defecation (TFD). The secondary outcomes included the time to recovery of bowel sounds (TRBS), the time to tolerance of liquid diet (TTLD), the time to tolerance of semiliquid diet (TTSD), the time to independent walking (TIW), the length of hospitalization (LH), and visual analog scale (VAS) immediate resting pain scores measured on the first, second and third postoperative days (POD 1–3). Results are reported as mean differences (MDs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). RevMan 5.3 was used for meta-analysis, StataSE 15.1 was used for sensitivity analyses and Egger’s tests. This study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022314754).
Results
A total of 19 RCTs involving 1902 participants were included, all of which were conducted in China between 2004 and 2023. When EA compared with PN, the meta-analysis showed EA significantly reduce TFF (n = 673, MD = -13.14, 95 % CI = [-18.97 to -7.31], P < 0.00001), TFD (n = 598, MD = -19.86, 95 % CI = [-27.83 to -11.89], P < 0.00001), TRBS (n = 216, MD = -12.44, 95 % CI = [-15.00 to -9.87], P < 0.00001), TTLD (n = 268, MD = -18.14, 95 % CI = [-24.98 to -11.29], P < 0.00001), TTSD (n = 141, MD = -20.44, 95 % CI = [-33.84 to -7.04], P = 0.003), VAS on POD 1 (n = 299, MD = -0.52, 95 % CI = [-0.92 to -0.11], P = 0.01), VAS on POD 2 (n = 256, MD = -0.91, 95 % CI = [-1.23 to -0.60], P < 0.00001), VAS on POD 3 (n = 203, MD = -0.57, 95 % CI = [-0.80 to -0.34], P < 0.00001), while no significantly decreasing in the LH (n = 322, MD = -1.16, 95 % CI = [-2.56 to 0.24], P = 0.10). As EA compared with SA, EA could significantly reduce TFF (n = 782, MD = -15.78, 95 % CI = [-24.96 to -6.60], P = 0.0008), TFD (n = 782, MD = -20.42, 95 % CI = [-36.14 to -4.70], P = 0.01), LH (n = 782, MD = -1.37, 95 % CI = [-2.69 to -0.05], P = 0.04), TIW (n = 743, MD = -0.33, 95 % CI = [-0.62 to -0.04], P = 0.03).13 studies reported that E
目的评价电针（EA）治疗胃肠道肿瘤患者术后恢复的疗效和安全性。方法检索PubMed、Embase、OVID、Cochrane Library、Web of Science、中国医学信息图书馆（CINAHL）、中国医学信息网（SinoMed）、中国知网（CNKI）、万方、科技期刊数据库（VIP）自建库至2024年11月1日的文章。纳入了随机对照试验（RCTs），研究了胃肠道肿瘤手术后使用EA改善胃肠道功能、减轻疼痛和促进自我护理能力的情况。根据对照干预的类型，分别对EA与术后护理（PN）、EA与假针灸（SA）进行meta分析。主要观察指标为首次排气时间（TFF）和首次排便时间（TFD）。次要结果包括肠音恢复时间（TRBS）、流质饮食耐受时间（TTLD）、半流质饮食耐受时间（TTSD）、独立行走时间（TIW）、住院时间（LH）以及术后第1、2和3天（POD 1-3）的视觉模拟量表（VAS）即时静息疼痛评分。结果以95%置信区间（ci）的平均差异（md）报告。meta分析采用RevMan 5.3，敏感性分析和Egger检验采用StataSE 15.1。本研究已在PROSPERO注册（CRD42022314754）。结果共纳入19项随机对照试验，受试者1902人，均于2004 - 2023年在中国进行。与PN比较，meta分析显示EA显著降低TFF (n = 673, MD = -13.14, 95% CI = [-18.97 ~ -7.31], P <；0.00001), TFD (n = 598, MD = -19.86, 95% CI = [-27.83 ~ -11.89], P <；0.00001), TRBS (n = 216, MD = -12.44, 95% CI = [-15.00 ~ -9.87], P <；0.00001), TTLD (n = 268, MD = -18.14, 95% CI = [-24.98 ~ -11.29], P <；0.00001), TTSD (n = 141, MD = -20.44, 95% CI = [-33.84 ~ -7.04], P = 0.003), POD 1 VAS (n = 299, MD = -0.52, 95% CI = [-0.92 ~ -0.11], P = 0.01), POD 2 VAS (n = 256, MD = -0.91, 95% CI = [-1.23 ~ -0.60], P <；0.00001)， POD 3 VAS评分(n = 203, MD = -0.57, 95% CI = [-0.80 ~ -0.34], P <；0.00001)，而LH无显著降低（n = 322, MD = -1.16, 95% CI = [-2.56 ~ 0.24], P = 0.10）。与SA相比，EA可显著降低TFF （n = 782, MD = -15.78, 95% CI = [-24.96 ~ -6.60], P = 0.0008）、TFD （n = 782, MD = -20.42, 95% CI = [-36.14 ~ -4.70], P = 0.01）、LH （n = 782, MD = -1.37, 95% CI = [-2.69 ~ -0.05], P = 0.04）、TIW （n = 743, MD = -0.33, 95% CI = [-0.62 ~ -0.04], P = 0.03）。13项研究报告EA降低了术后并发症的发生率，7项研究报告了针刺相关不良事件的安全性评估，包括血肿、残针、刺痛、拔针后疼痛、酸痛或肿胀，无严重不良事件。结论ea能显著促进消化道肿瘤手术患者的消化道功能恢复，减轻术后疼痛，提高生活自理能力。
{"title":"Electroacupuncture for postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients with gastrointestinal cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Xue-er YAN (严雪儿) , Shu-sheng CUI (崔述生) , Yan-rui WANG (王燕睿) , Mao-yu DING (丁茂裕) , Yi-qing CAI (蔡祎晴) , Pak Hang LUK , Ji-ping ZHAO (赵吉平) , Chao YANG (杨超) , Jia-jia ZHANG (张佳佳) , Zi-chen WANG (王子辰) , Si-yan CHEN (陈思言) , Xiao-min ZANG (臧晓敏) , Yu-hui HUANG (黄钰惠) , Cheng TAN (谭程)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for postoperative recovery in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We retrieved articles from PubMed, Embase, OVID, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and Technology Journal Database (VIP) from database inception to November 1, 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examine the use of EA to improve GI function, reduce pain, and promote ability ofself-care after GI cancer surgery were included. Based on the type of control interventions, separate meta-analyses were conducted for EA vs postoperative nursing (PN) and EA vs sham acupuncture (SA). The primary outcomes were the time to first flatus (TFF) and the time to first defecation (TFD). The secondary outcomes included the time to recovery of bowel sounds (TRBS), the time to tolerance of liquid diet (TTLD), the time to tolerance of semiliquid diet (TTSD), the time to independent walking (TIW), the length of hospitalization (LH), and visual analog scale (VAS) immediate resting pain scores measured on the first, second and third postoperative days (POD 1–3). Results are reported as mean differences (MDs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). RevMan 5.3 was used for meta-analysis, StataSE 15.1 was used for sensitivity analyses and Egger’s tests. This study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022314754).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 19 RCTs involving 1902 participants were included, all of which were conducted in China between 2004 and 2023. When EA compared with PN, the meta-analysis showed EA significantly reduce TFF (<em>n</em> = 673, MD = -13.14, 95 % CI = [-18.97 to -7.31], <em>P</em> < 0.00001), TFD (<em>n</em> = 598, MD = -19.86, 95 % CI = [-27.83 to -11.89], <em>P</em> < 0.00001), TRBS (<em>n</em> = 216, MD = -12.44, 95 % CI = [-15.00 to -9.87], <em>P</em> < 0.00001), TTLD (<em>n</em> = 268, MD = -18.14, 95 % CI = [-24.98 to -11.29], <em>P</em> < 0.00001), TTSD (<em>n</em> = 141, MD = -20.44, 95 % CI = [-33.84 to -7.04], <em>P</em> = 0.003), VAS on POD 1 (<em>n</em> = 299, MD = -0.52, 95 % CI = [-0.92 to -0.11], <em>P</em> = 0.01), VAS on POD 2 (<em>n</em> = 256, MD = -0.91, 95 % CI = [-1.23 to -0.60], <em>P</em> < 0.00001), VAS on POD 3 (<em>n</em> = 203, MD = -0.57, 95 % CI = [-0.80 to -0.34], <em>P</em> < 0.00001), while no significantly decreasing in the LH (<em>n</em> = 322, MD = -1.16, 95 % CI = [-2.56 to 0.24], <em>P</em> = 0.10). As EA compared with SA, EA could significantly reduce TFF (<em>n</em> = 782, MD = -15.78, 95 % CI = [-24.96 to -6.60], <em>P</em> = 0.0008), TFD (<em>n</em> = 782, MD = -20.42, 95 % CI = [-36.14 to -4.70], <em>P</em> = 0.01), LH (<em>n</em> = 782, MD = -1.37, 95 % CI = [-2.69 to -0.05], <em>P</em> = 0.04), TIW (<em>n</em> = 743, MD = -0.33, 95 % CI = [-0.62 to -0.04], <em>P</em> = 0.03).13 studies reported that E","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 3","pages":"Pages 208-222"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144809619","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 : 2025-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.007
Xiu-feng GU (顾秀锋) , Jing-zhi WANG (王静芝) , Ming KONG (孔茗) , Li CHEN (陈丽) , Jie SONG (宋杰) , Tao QU (瞿涛)
Objective
To investigate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expression and phosphorylation of insulin signal transduction-related proteins in the hypothalamus of insulin resistance (IR) rats.
Methods
There were totally seventy-five Wistar rats. Ten rats were randomly assigned to the Normal group (N).The remaining 65 rats were fed a high-fat diet, fifty successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into the Model (M), EA, Sham EA (S+EA), l-leucine (L), and l-leucine + EA (L+EA) groups, with 10 rats in each group.EA was applied at acupoints “Guanyuan (CV 4)”, “Zhongwan (CV 12)”, “Zusanli (ST 36)”, and “Fenglong (ST 40)”, with each session lasting 10 min, three times per week for 8 weeks. The S+EA group received needle insertion to a depth of ≤2 mm without electrical stimulation, with the same treatment duration and same acupoint selection. Body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and insulin sensitivity (glucose infusion rate, GIR) were measured. Western blot analysis was used to assess insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS-1) , (Protein kinase B)Akt, glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β),mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1(mTORC1), and Ribosomal S6 kinase 1(S6K1), along with their phosphorylated forms. PCR was used to evaluate mRNA expression of IRS-1, Akt, and GSK-3β. Immunofluorescence was used to detect hypothalamic Akt localization.
Results
(1) Compared to the N group, the M group exhibited increased body weight, FBG, and phosphorylation of GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1, with decreased GIR, IRS-1, Akt phosphorylation, and mRNA expression (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (2) Compared to the M group, the EA and S+EA groups showed reduced body weight, FBG, GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1 phosphorylation, with increased GIR, IRS-1, Akt phosphorylation, and mRNA expression (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (3) Compared to the EA group, the S+EA group had higher body weight, GSK-3β phosphorylation, and mRNA expression, with reduced p-IRS-1 and p-Akt expression (P < 0.05); the L and L+EA groups showed increased GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1 phosphorylation, with decreased GIR, IRS-1, and Akt mRNA expression (P < 0.05). (4) Compared to the L+EA group, the L group exhibited higher GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1 phosphorylation, with lower GIR, Akt mRNA, and p-Akt expression (P < 0.05, P < 0.01).
Conclusion
EA positively influences body weight, glucose-lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity in IR rats, with regulatory effects on central insulin signal transduction-related proteins, potentially linked to its suppression of hypothalamic mTORC1/S6K1 pathway activity.
目的探讨电针（EA）对胰岛素抵抗（IR）大鼠下丘脑胰岛素信号转导相关蛋白表达及磷酸化的影响。方法选用Wistar大鼠75只。10只大鼠随机分为正常组(N)。将50只成功造模的大鼠随机分为模型组(M)、EA组、假EA组（S+EA）、L -亮氨酸组(L)和L -亮氨酸+EA组（L+EA），每组10只。取“观园穴”（CV 4）、“中脘穴”（CV 12）、“足三里穴”（ST 36）、“凤龙穴”（ST 40），每周3次，每次10分钟，连用8周。S+EA组针刺深度≤2mm，无电刺激，疗程相同，取穴相同。测量体重、空腹血糖（FBG）和胰岛素敏感性（葡萄糖输注率，GIR）。Western blot分析胰岛素受体底物-1（IRS-1）、（蛋白激酶B）Akt、糖原合成酶激酶3β(GSK-3β)、雷帕霉素复合物1的机制靶点（mTORC1）和核糖体S6激酶1（S6K1）及其磷酸化形式。PCR检测IRS-1、Akt、GSK-3β mRNA的表达。结果(1)与N组相比，M组大鼠体重、FBG增加，GSK-3β、mTORC1和S6K1磷酸化水平升高，GIR、IRS-1、Akt磷酸化水平和mRNA表达水平降低(P <；0.05, P <；0.01)。(2)与M组相比，EA和S+EA组小鼠体重、FBG、GSK-3β、mTORC1和S6K1磷酸化水平降低，GIR、IRS-1、Akt磷酸化水平和mRNA表达水平升高(P <；0.05, P <；0.01)。(3)与EA组相比，S+EA组大鼠体重、GSK-3β磷酸化、mRNA表达增加，P - irs -1和P - akt表达降低(P <；0.05);L和L+EA组GSK-3β、mTORC1和S6K1磷酸化升高，GIR、IRS-1和Akt mRNA表达降低(P <；0.05)。(4)与L+EA组相比，L组GSK-3β、mTORC1和S6K1磷酸化水平较高，GIR、Akt mRNA和P -Akt表达水平较低(P <；0.05, P <；0.01)。结论ea对IR大鼠的体重、糖脂代谢和胰岛素敏感性有积极影响，对中枢胰岛素信号转导相关蛋白有调节作用，可能与其抑制下丘脑mTORC1/S6K1通路活性有关。
{"title":"Effects of electroacupuncture on central insulin signal transduction-related proteins in insulin resistance model rats via the mTORC1/S6K1 pathway","authors":"Xiu-feng GU (顾秀锋) , Jing-zhi WANG (王静芝) , Ming KONG (孔茗) , Li CHEN (陈丽) , Jie SONG (宋杰) , Tao QU (瞿涛)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.007","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.007","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To investigate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expression and phosphorylation of insulin signal transduction-related proteins in the hypothalamus of insulin resistance (IR) rats.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>There were totally seventy-five Wistar rats. Ten rats were randomly assigned to the Normal group (N).The remaining 65 rats were fed a high-fat diet, fifty successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into the Model (M), EA, Sham EA (<em>S</em>+EA), <span>l</span>-leucine (L), and <span>l</span>-leucine + EA (<em>L</em>+EA) groups, with 10 rats in each group.EA was applied at acupoints “Guanyuan (CV 4)”, “Zhongwan (CV 12)”, “Zusanli (ST 36)”, and “Fenglong (ST 40)”, with each session lasting 10 min, three times per week for 8 weeks. The <em>S</em>+EA group received needle insertion to a depth of ≤2 mm without electrical stimulation, with the same treatment duration and same acupoint selection. Body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and insulin sensitivity (glucose infusion rate, GIR) were measured. Western blot analysis was used to assess insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS-1) , (Protein kinase B)Akt, glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β),mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1(mTORC1), and Ribosomal S6 kinase 1(S6K1), along with their phosphorylated forms. PCR was used to evaluate mRNA expression of IRS-1, Akt, and GSK-3β. Immunofluorescence was used to detect hypothalamic Akt localization.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>(1) Compared to the N group, the M group exhibited increased body weight, FBG, and phosphorylation of GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1, with decreased GIR, IRS-1, Akt phosphorylation, and mRNA expression (<em>P</em> < 0.05, <em>P</em> < 0.01). (2) Compared to the M group, the EA and <em>S</em>+EA groups showed reduced body weight, FBG, GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1 phosphorylation, with increased GIR, IRS-1, Akt phosphorylation, and mRNA expression (<em>P</em> < 0.05, <em>P</em> < 0.01). (3) Compared to the EA group, the <em>S</em>+EA group had higher body weight, GSK-3β phosphorylation, and mRNA expression, with reduced p-IRS-1 and p-Akt expression (<em>P</em> < 0.05); the L and <em>L</em>+EA groups showed increased GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1 phosphorylation, with decreased GIR, IRS-1, and Akt mRNA expression (<em>P</em> < 0.05). (4) Compared to the <em>L</em>+EA group, the L group exhibited higher GSK-3β, mTORC1, and S6K1 phosphorylation, with lower GIR, Akt mRNA, and p-Akt expression (<em>P</em> < 0.05, <em>P</em> < 0.01).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>EA positively influences body weight, glucose-lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity in IR rats, with regulatory effects on central insulin signal transduction-related proteins, potentially linked to its suppression of hypothalamic mTORC1/S6K1 pathway activity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 3","pages":"Pages 262-268"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810498","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 : 2025-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.005
Chao-Yue ZHANG (张超月) , Jun XU (徐俊) , Xiao-Hong GU (顾晓红) , Xuan YIN (殷萱) , Shan-Shan LI (李珊珊) (李珊珊) , Li-Xing LAO (劳力行) , Shi-Fen XU (徐世芬) , Yi-Qun MI (宓轶群)
Background
Acupuncture and its related therapies, as an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, have been widely accepted by the public and healthcare professionals all over the world. According to previous reviews, the department of acupuncture is a potential place where nosocomial infection might occur.
Objectives
To investigate the common pathogens and possible risk factors for nosocomial infection, figure out the measures and strategies for control and prevention, and provide general reporting guideline for future cases.
Methods
A systematic literature search of 6 libraries (EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, VIP, CNKI, SinoMed) was carried out on nosocomial infection (NIs) after acupuncture and its related therapies (e.g., moxibustion, cupping, massage, dry needling) published from January 1, 2012 to August 31, 2023. Studies providing primary data were included; reviews, comments, and non-primary data studies were excluded to prevent duplicate case analysis. Data on bibliographic details, study characteristics, and clinical information were extracted. Results were synthesized through tabulation and categorized by therapy type, country income level, symptoms/diagnoses, pathogens, risk factors, treatments, and outcomes.
Conclusion
Nosocomial infections after acupuncture and its related therapies are possible but preventable. Prevention measures can be carried out in terms of the risk factors listed above. Future case reports are suggested to provide specific details of infection, including the setting, qualification, treatment, disinfection, and causal evidence.
{"title":"Nosocomial infections after acupuncture and related therapies: A systematic review of case reports and case series","authors":"Chao-Yue ZHANG (张超月) , Jun XU (徐俊) , Xiao-Hong GU (顾晓红) , Xuan YIN (殷萱) , Shan-Shan LI (李珊珊) (李珊珊) , Li-Xing LAO (劳力行) , Shi-Fen XU (徐世芬) , Yi-Qun MI (宓轶群)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.005","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.06.005","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Acupuncture and its related therapies, as an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, have been widely accepted by the public and healthcare professionals all over the world. According to previous reviews, the department of acupuncture is a potential place where nosocomial infection might occur.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To investigate the common pathogens and possible risk factors for nosocomial infection, figure out the measures and strategies for control and prevention, and provide general reporting guideline for future cases.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic literature search of 6 libraries (EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, VIP, CNKI, SinoMed) was carried out on nosocomial infection (NIs) after acupuncture and its related therapies (e.g., moxibustion, cupping, massage, dry needling) published from January 1, 2012 to August 31, 2023. Studies providing primary data were included; reviews, comments, and non-primary data studies were excluded to prevent duplicate case analysis. Data on bibliographic details, study characteristics, and clinical information were extracted. Results were synthesized through tabulation and categorized by therapy type, country income level, symptoms/diagnoses, pathogens, risk factors, treatments, and outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Nosocomial infections after acupuncture and its related therapies are possible but preventable. Prevention measures can be carried out in terms of the risk factors listed above. Future case reports are suggested to provide specific details of infection, including the setting, qualification, treatment, disinfection, and causal evidence.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 3","pages":"Pages 173-181"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810552","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 : 2025-04-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.02.003
Hong PAN (潘虹) , Ying-Bo XI (葸英博) , Jin DING (丁劲) , Qin YIN (尹秦) , Hui-Qin XUE (薛慧琴) , Hai-Yu YUE (岳海玉)
<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To investigate the effects of moxibustion on wound healing and evaluate whether the efficacy of moxibustion at different temperatures varies. Additionally, to explore the mechanism by which moxibustion regulates the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian rapamycin target protein (mTOR) signaling pathway on wound healing and cell apoptosis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 90 SPF-grade SD rats were randomly divided into six groups (15 rats per group): control group, model group, recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor gel (rb-bFGF) group, moxibustion group A [temperature (42 ± 1) °C], moxibustion group B [temperature (45 ± 1) °C], and moxibustion group C [ temperature (48 ± 1) °C]. Except the control group, the interventions were conducted in the other groups with pressure ulcer induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury. In the control group, povidone-iodine was administered at the knee joint. In the model group, after povidone-iodine applied at the pressure ulcer, petroleum jelly gauze was bandaged. In the rb-bFGF group, after povidone-iodine applied at the pressure ulcer, rb-bFGF was smeared and petroleum jelly gauze was bandaged. In the moxibustion group A, the suspending moxibustion with moxa stick was delivered 3 cm to 5 cm above the ulcer. The paperless temperature recorder probe was placed on the wound surface where moxibustion was delivered, and the real-time temperature was monitored and adjusted, kept at (42 ± 1) °C. The moxibustion temperature was kept at (45 ± 1) °C in the moxibustion group B, and (48 ± 1) °C in the moxibustion group C. The intervention lasted 14 days in each group. The wound healing rates were compared on the 3, 5, 7 and 14 days after the first intervention among the 6 groups. After 14-day intervention respectively, the histopathological changes were observed with HE staining, apoptosis was detected with TUNEL method and flow cytometry; VEGF-A protein expression determined with immunohistochemistry; the contents of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in serum with ELISA, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR related protein and mRNA expression was with Western blotting and qRT-PCR in wound tissues of each group.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Regarding the intervention effects, (1) compared with the control group, the model group showed significant inflammatory infiltration in wound tissues, higher levels of cell apoptosis, and elevated serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β (<em>P</em> < 0.05); (2) compared with the model group, the rb-bFGF group and 3 moxibustion groups showed higher wound healing rates (<em>P</em> < 0.05), reduced inflammatory infiltration in the wound tissues, lower levels of cell apoptosis, and decreased serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β (<em>P</em> < 0.05). Among the moxibustion groups, group C showed significantly better results than group A (<em>P</em> <
{"title":"Effects of moxibustion at different temperature on wound healing and apoptosis in rats with pressure ulcer based on PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal pathway","authors":"Hong PAN (潘虹) , Ying-Bo XI (葸英博) , Jin DING (丁劲) , Qin YIN (尹秦) , Hui-Qin XUE (薛慧琴) , Hai-Yu YUE (岳海玉)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.02.003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.02.003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To investigate the effects of moxibustion on wound healing and evaluate whether the efficacy of moxibustion at different temperatures varies. Additionally, to explore the mechanism by which moxibustion regulates the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian rapamycin target protein (mTOR) signaling pathway on wound healing and cell apoptosis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 90 SPF-grade SD rats were randomly divided into six groups (15 rats per group): control group, model group, recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor gel (rb-bFGF) group, moxibustion group A [temperature (42 ± 1) °C], moxibustion group B [temperature (45 ± 1) °C], and moxibustion group C [ temperature (48 ± 1) °C]. Except the control group, the interventions were conducted in the other groups with pressure ulcer induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury. In the control group, povidone-iodine was administered at the knee joint. In the model group, after povidone-iodine applied at the pressure ulcer, petroleum jelly gauze was bandaged. In the rb-bFGF group, after povidone-iodine applied at the pressure ulcer, rb-bFGF was smeared and petroleum jelly gauze was bandaged. In the moxibustion group A, the suspending moxibustion with moxa stick was delivered 3 cm to 5 cm above the ulcer. The paperless temperature recorder probe was placed on the wound surface where moxibustion was delivered, and the real-time temperature was monitored and adjusted, kept at (42 ± 1) °C. The moxibustion temperature was kept at (45 ± 1) °C in the moxibustion group B, and (48 ± 1) °C in the moxibustion group C. The intervention lasted 14 days in each group. The wound healing rates were compared on the 3, 5, 7 and 14 days after the first intervention among the 6 groups. After 14-day intervention respectively, the histopathological changes were observed with HE staining, apoptosis was detected with TUNEL method and flow cytometry; VEGF-A protein expression determined with immunohistochemistry; the contents of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in serum with ELISA, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR related protein and mRNA expression was with Western blotting and qRT-PCR in wound tissues of each group.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Regarding the intervention effects, (1) compared with the control group, the model group showed significant inflammatory infiltration in wound tissues, higher levels of cell apoptosis, and elevated serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β (<em>P</em> < 0.05); (2) compared with the model group, the rb-bFGF group and 3 moxibustion groups showed higher wound healing rates (<em>P</em> < 0.05), reduced inflammatory infiltration in the wound tissues, lower levels of cell apoptosis, and decreased serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β (<em>P</em> < 0.05). Among the moxibustion groups, group C showed significantly better results than group A (<em>P</em> < ","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 2","pages":"Pages 125-134"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143927898","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 : 2025-04-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.01.004
Yi-ling YANG (杨一玲) , Wei-xuan ZHAO (赵伟璇) , Jia-le LI (李嘉乐) , Wei-qiang CHEN (陈伟强)
Objective
To observe the efficacy of Shugan Tiaoshen (liver-soothing and mind-regulating) needling method in the treatment of patients with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Methods
A total of 66 patients with PHN were randomly divided into acupuncture group and control group, 33 cases in each one, by the random number table method. The acupuncture group received Shugan Tiaoshen needling method plus gabapentin, whereas the control group received the oral administration of gabapentin and sham acupuncture. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to evaluate the pain condition, anxiety symptom and sleep quality. The effective rate and adverse events were also evaluated and recorded during the treatment.
Results
After eight weeks of treatment, the NRS scores of the two groups were significantly lower than those before treatment (P < 0.05) at all time points, with statistically significant difference between the groups (P < 0.05). The scores of STAI and PSQI of the acupuncture group were significantly lower than the scores before treatment (P < 0.05). The scores of STAI for anxiety symptom and PSQI of the acupuncture group were significantly lower than the control group (P < 0.05), and the effective rate of the acupuncture group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the acupuncture group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Shugan Tiaoshen needling method showed satisfactory efficacy in treating PHN, and could alleviate the pain, relieve the anxiety symptoms, promote sleep, and reduce the adverse reactions of gabapentin in patients with PHN.
{"title":"Shugan Tiaoshen needling method for postherpetic neuralgia: A randomized controlled trial","authors":"Yi-ling YANG (杨一玲) , Wei-xuan ZHAO (赵伟璇) , Jia-le LI (李嘉乐) , Wei-qiang CHEN (陈伟强)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.01.004","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.01.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To observe the efficacy of <em>Shugan Tiaoshen</em> (liver-soothing and mind-regulating) needling method in the treatment of patients with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 66 patients with PHN were randomly divided into acupuncture group and control group, 33 cases in each one, by the random number table method. The acupuncture group received <em>Shugan Tiaoshen</em> needling method plus gabapentin, whereas the control group received the oral administration of gabapentin and sham acupuncture. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to evaluate the pain condition, anxiety symptom and sleep quality. The effective rate and adverse events were also evaluated and recorded during the treatment.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>After eight weeks of treatment, the NRS scores of the two groups were significantly lower than those before treatment (<em>P</em> < 0.05) at all time points, with statistically significant difference between the groups (<em>P</em> < 0.05). The scores of STAI and PSQI of the acupuncture group were significantly lower than the scores before treatment (<em>P</em> < 0.05). The scores of STAI for anxiety symptom and PSQI of the acupuncture group were significantly lower than the control group (<em>P</em> < 0.05), and the effective rate of the acupuncture group was significantly higher than that of the control group (<em>P</em> < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the acupuncture group was significantly lower than that in the control group (<em>P</em> < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><em>Shugan Tiaoshen</em> needling method showed satisfactory efficacy in treating PHN, and could alleviate the pain, relieve the anxiety symptoms, promote sleep, and reduce the adverse reactions of gabapentin in patients with PHN.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 2","pages":"Pages 119-124"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143927897","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 : 2025-04-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.03.002
Si-an PAN (潘思安) , Shao-hua WANG (汪少华) , Han-yu YUAN (袁菡钰) , Juan LI (李娟) , Xiao XUE (薛晓) , Zeng-hui YUE (岳增辉) , Yu LIU (刘余)
<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on microRNA (miRNA) expression spectrum and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in uterine tissue of rats with primary dysmenorrhea (PDM), and to explore the potential mechanism of EA in the treatment of PDM.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Thirty female SD rats, weighted (200 ± 20) g were randomly divided into control group, model group and EA group, 10 rats in each group. By using subcutaneous injection of estradiol diphenhydrate combined with intraperitoneal injection of oxytocin, PDM models were established. Rats in the EA group received EA at “Sanyinjiao”(SP6) and “Guanyuan”(CV4) at dense waves and a frequency of 50 Hz, once a day, 20 min each time, for 10 consecutive days. After the 10-day intervention, samples were collected and transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructural changes of the cells in uterine tissue in each group. With RNA-seq method, the changes of miRNA expression spectrum in rat uterine tissue were detected. Bioinformatics analysis such as GO functional annotation and KEGG pathway was performed according to differentially expressed miRNAs. Differentially expressed miRNAs were verified by qRT-PCR. Endometrial stromal cells were selected as the target cells and transfected; and they were divided into control group, NC mimics group, mimic miR-144–3p group, NC inhibitor group and inhibitor miR-144–3p group. The apoptosis was determined by using flow cytometrydetect apoptosis, the miRNA and protein expression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot in each group separately.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>1. Transmission electron microscope. (1) Control group: no obvious morphological changes in the uterine tissue. (2) Model group: fibroblasts in uterine tissue were irregular, the edema was presented in cellular cytoplasm, the nuclei were irregular and mitochondria swollen seriously; the rough endoplasmic reticulum was expanded moderately. (3) EA group: fibroblasts were spindle-shaped and pyknotic, the cytoplasm increased in electron density, the nuclei were slightly irregular and pyknotic, mitochondria were oval in shape, with little swelling and vacuolation; the rough endoplasmic reticulum was expanded slightly and retained, with a small amount of degranulation. 2. Compared with the control group, there were 26 differentially expressed miRNAs in the uterine tissue of rats with PDM. After EA intervention, the expression of miR-144–3p was significantly up-regulated. GO functional analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs in PDM rats after EA showed that the biological functions involved calcium transmembrane transporter activity, mitogen-activated protein kinase binding, epithelial cell migration, tissue migration, etc. 3. KEGG pathway analysis showed that PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway and calcium signaling pathway were enriched. Mimic miR-144-3p increased t
{"title":"Mechanism of electroacupuncture on rats with primary dysmenorrhea based on microRNA expression spectrum and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway","authors":"Si-an PAN (潘思安) , Shao-hua WANG (汪少华) , Han-yu YUAN (袁菡钰) , Juan LI (李娟) , Xiao XUE (薛晓) , Zeng-hui YUE (岳增辉) , Yu LIU (刘余)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.03.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.03.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To investigate the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on microRNA (miRNA) expression spectrum and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in uterine tissue of rats with primary dysmenorrhea (PDM), and to explore the potential mechanism of EA in the treatment of PDM.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Thirty female SD rats, weighted (200 ± 20) g were randomly divided into control group, model group and EA group, 10 rats in each group. By using subcutaneous injection of estradiol diphenhydrate combined with intraperitoneal injection of oxytocin, PDM models were established. Rats in the EA group received EA at “Sanyinjiao”(SP6) and “Guanyuan”(CV4) at dense waves and a frequency of 50 Hz, once a day, 20 min each time, for 10 consecutive days. After the 10-day intervention, samples were collected and transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructural changes of the cells in uterine tissue in each group. With RNA-seq method, the changes of miRNA expression spectrum in rat uterine tissue were detected. Bioinformatics analysis such as GO functional annotation and KEGG pathway was performed according to differentially expressed miRNAs. Differentially expressed miRNAs were verified by qRT-PCR. Endometrial stromal cells were selected as the target cells and transfected; and they were divided into control group, NC mimics group, mimic miR-144–3p group, NC inhibitor group and inhibitor miR-144–3p group. The apoptosis was determined by using flow cytometrydetect apoptosis, the miRNA and protein expression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot in each group separately.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>1. Transmission electron microscope. (1) Control group: no obvious morphological changes in the uterine tissue. (2) Model group: fibroblasts in uterine tissue were irregular, the edema was presented in cellular cytoplasm, the nuclei were irregular and mitochondria swollen seriously; the rough endoplasmic reticulum was expanded moderately. (3) EA group: fibroblasts were spindle-shaped and pyknotic, the cytoplasm increased in electron density, the nuclei were slightly irregular and pyknotic, mitochondria were oval in shape, with little swelling and vacuolation; the rough endoplasmic reticulum was expanded slightly and retained, with a small amount of degranulation. 2. Compared with the control group, there were 26 differentially expressed miRNAs in the uterine tissue of rats with PDM. After EA intervention, the expression of miR-144–3p was significantly up-regulated. GO functional analysis of differentially expressed miRNAs in PDM rats after EA showed that the biological functions involved calcium transmembrane transporter activity, mitogen-activated protein kinase binding, epithelial cell migration, tissue migration, etc. 3. KEGG pathway analysis showed that PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway and calcium signaling pathway were enriched. Mimic miR-144-3p increased t","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 2","pages":"Pages 135-144"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143927899","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 : 2025-04-01DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2025.03.003
Yang ZHANG (张杨) , Zhi-dan WANG (王志丹) , Jie ZHANG (张杰) , Shuang REN (任爽) , Yue LIU (刘悦) , Yun-xi LI (李赟溪) , Xiao-yu MA (马晓宇) , Xu WANG (汪旭) , Hao SUN (孙皓) , Ruo-shi LIU (刘若实)
Background
Unsedated colonoscopy is an important method used for diagnosing colorectal cancer, but it can cause discomfort such as pain and bloating, as well as anxiety. At present, the relief is mainly achieved through methods such as changing positions and manual pressing, but the efficacy is limited. Hence alternative therapies for sedation and analgesia in unsedated colonoscopy warrant further study. Electroacupuncture (EA) can simplify the procedure of anesthesia and analgesia, while the efficacy of EA on unsedated colonoscopy remains unclear. Therefore, a well-designed randomized controlled trial is needed to demonstrate the potential efficacy of acupuncture in unsedated colonoscopy, particularly for pain relief.
Methods
In this prospective randomized sham-controlled trial, 105 eligible participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to either EA group (n = 35), sham EA group (n = 35), or control group (n = 35) in a 1:1:1 ratio. The EA group will receive acupuncture intervention on bilateral Hegu (LI4), Neiguan (PC6), Zusanli (ST36), and Shenmen (HT7), with LI4 and PC6 on both sides connected to the EA device. The sham EA group will received non transdermal needling on points of no meridian, and deliberately connect the needle to the incorrect output socket of EA device to block the stimulation. The needling will conducted from 30 min before the unsedated colonoscopy to the end of the colonoscopy, the whole retention time would be approximately 40 min. The participants in the control group will not receive any acupuncture intervention. All participants of the three groups will not receive any other treatment. Primary outcomes: Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) reported by participants and Face Pain Scale Revised (FPS-R) evaluated by observers of four areas of the participants during the unsedated colonoscopy. Secondary outcomes: tolerance reported by endoscopists, tolerance reported by participants, satisfaction reported by endoscopists, satisfaction reported by participants, adverse events during the unsedated colonoscopy, postoperative discomfort, unsedated colonoscopy smoothness (cecal insertion time, unwinding time, success rate of one-time intubation). Both intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses will be performed to assess the efficacy of EA.
Discussion
The trial will explore the efficacy of relieving pain, improving tolerability, and reducing undesirable adverse events of EA for unsedated colonoscopy. The results of this trial will provide sound evidence for promoting the clinical application of EA for unsedated colonoscopy.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: ChiCTR2300069903, retrospectively registered on March 16, 2023.
{"title":"Evaluation of the efficacy of electroacupuncture on pain and tolerance for unsedated colonoscopy: A study protocol for a prospective, randomized, sham-controlled trial","authors":"Yang ZHANG (张杨) , Zhi-dan WANG (王志丹) , Jie ZHANG (张杰) , Shuang REN (任爽) , Yue LIU (刘悦) , Yun-xi LI (李赟溪) , Xiao-yu MA (马晓宇) , Xu WANG (汪旭) , Hao SUN (孙皓) , Ruo-shi LIU (刘若实)","doi":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.03.003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.wjam.2025.03.003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Unsedated colonoscopy is an important method used for diagnosing colorectal cancer, but it can cause discomfort such as pain and bloating, as well as anxiety. At present, the relief is mainly achieved through methods such as changing positions and manual pressing, but the efficacy is limited. Hence alternative therapies for sedation and analgesia in unsedated colonoscopy warrant further study. Electroacupuncture (EA) can simplify the procedure of anesthesia and analgesia, while the efficacy of EA on unsedated colonoscopy remains unclear. Therefore, a well-designed randomized controlled trial is needed to demonstrate the potential efficacy of acupuncture in unsedated colonoscopy, particularly for pain relief.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In this prospective randomized sham-controlled trial, 105 eligible participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to either EA group (<em>n</em> = 35), sham EA group (<em>n</em> = 35), or control group (<em>n</em> = 35) in a 1:1:1 ratio. The EA group will receive acupuncture intervention on bilateral Hegu (LI4), Neiguan (PC6), Zusanli (ST36), and Shenmen (HT7), with LI4 and PC6 on both sides connected to the EA device. The sham EA group will received non transdermal needling on points of no meridian, and deliberately connect the needle to the incorrect output socket of EA device to block the stimulation. The needling will conducted from 30 min before the unsedated colonoscopy to the end of the colonoscopy, the whole retention time would be approximately 40 min. The participants in the control group will not receive any acupuncture intervention. All participants of the three groups will not receive any other treatment. Primary outcomes: Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) reported by participants and Face Pain Scale Revised (FPS-R) evaluated by observers of four areas of the participants during the unsedated colonoscopy. Secondary outcomes: tolerance reported by endoscopists, tolerance reported by participants, satisfaction reported by endoscopists, satisfaction reported by participants, adverse events during the unsedated colonoscopy, postoperative discomfort, unsedated colonoscopy smoothness (cecal insertion time, unwinding time, success rate of one-time intubation). Both intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses will be performed to assess the efficacy of EA.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>The trial will explore the efficacy of relieving pain, improving tolerability, and reducing undesirable adverse events of EA for unsedated colonoscopy. The results of this trial will provide sound evidence for promoting the clinical application of EA for unsedated colonoscopy.</div></div><div><h3>Trial registration</h3><div>ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: ChiCTR2300069903, retrospectively registered on March 16, 2023.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":44648,"journal":{"name":"World Journal of Acupuncture-Moxibustion","volume":"35 2","pages":"Pages 152-159"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143927901","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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