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Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on fear extinction and sleep phase in single prolonged stress (SPS) mice, and explore its mechanism in view of the expression of relevant synaptic proteins., Methods: Thirty-two C57BL/6J male mice were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, an EA group and a paroxetine (PRX) group, with 8 mice in each one. Modified SPS method was used to establish PTSD model in the model group, the EA group and the PRX group. Seven days after modeling completion, in the EA group, the intervention was delivered at "Baihui" (GV 20) and bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36), with disperse-dense wave, 3 Hz/15 Hz in frequency and 1 mA in current intensity, for 30 min. In the PRX group, paroxetine solution (2.5 g/L) was administered intragastrically (10 mg/kg). The intervention was given once daily and for consecutive 10 days in the above two groups. The fear conditioning task and the elevated plus-maze test were adopted to evaluate the fear extinction and anxiety of the mice in each group. Using Medusa electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) recording system from rats and mice, the sleep phase was determined in the mice. With Western blot method adopted, the protein expression of the postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95), activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (ARC), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor 2A (GluN2A), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor 2B (GluN2B) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid receptor 1 (GluA1) in the hippocampus was detected in the mice., Results: Compared with the control group, the freezing time for the fear re-exposure in 3 min to 15 min and the fear extinction in 0 min to 3 min were prolonged ( P <0.05), the fear extinction index decreased ( P <0.05), and the open arm time (OT) of the elevated plus-maze was shortened ( P <0.05) in the model group. When compared with the model group, in the EA group and the PRX group, the freezing time for the fear re-exposure in 3 min to 6 min and 12 min to 15 min, as well as the fear extinction in 0 min to 3 min was shortened ( P <0.05), the fear extinction index increased ( P <0.05); the OT in elevated plus-maze was longer in the mice of the EA group ( P <0.05). The period of wake (Wake) was prolonged ( P <0.05), the non-rapid eye movement period (NREM) and the total sleep time (Sleep) were reduced in the model group ( P <0.05) in comparison with the control group. Compared with the model group, the Wake was declined ( P <0.05), and the NREM and Sleep increased in the EA group and the PRX group ( P <0.05). When compared with the control group, the protein expression of PSD95, ARC, BDNF, GluN2A and GluA1 in the hippocampus decreased ( P <0.05), and that of GluN2B increased ( P <0.05) in the model group. In the EA group and the PRX group, the protein expression of PSD95, ARC, BDNF, GluN2A and GluA1 in the hippocampus was elevated ( P <0.05), and that of GluN2B reduced ( P <0.05) when compared with the model group., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture at "Baihui" (GV 29) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) can ameliorate anxiety-like behavior, fear extinction disorder and abnormal sleep phase in SPS mice, which may be related to the regulation of synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity expression in the hippocampus.

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of guasha - fangsha (scrapping and bleeding) therapy combined with electroacupuncture (EA) on greater occipital neuralgia., Methods: Ninety patients with greater occipital neuralgia were randomly divided into an observation group (45 cases) and a control group (45 cases, 2 cases dropped out). In the control group, EA was delivered at Fengfu (GV 16) and bilateral Tianzhu (BL 10), Fengchi (GB 20), Wangu (GB 12), Yuzhen (BL 9) and Houxi (SI 3), with disperse-dense wave, at 2 Hz/100 Hz in frequency and 2 mA to 6 mA in intensity, for 30 min in each intervention, once every other days, 3 times a week. In the observation group, on the basis of the intervention as the control group, guasha - fangsha therapy was used along the distribution of the bladder meridian of foot- taiyang on the occipital region and that of the gallbladder meridian of foot- shaoyang on the lateral side of the head, once weekly. The duration of treatment was 3 weeks in the two groups. In the two groups, before treatment, after 1, 2 and 3 weeks of treatment and in follow-up visit after 3 weeks of treatment completion, the score of visual analogue scale (VAS) was observed; before and after treatment, as well as in follow-up visit after 3 weeks of treatment completion, the scores of self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS) and 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) were observed; after treatment and in follow-up visit after 3 weeks of treatment completion, the clinical efficacy was evaluated., Results: After one week of treatment, the VAS score in the observation group decreased when compared with that before treatment ( P <0.05), while the scores in 2 and 3 weeks of treatment and in follow-up visit after 3 weeks of treatment completion were lower than those before treatment in the two groups ( P <0.05) separately. At each time point after treatment, the VAS scores in the observation group were lower than those in the control group ( P <0.05). After treatment and during the follow-up visit, the scores of SAS and SDS decreased when compared with those before treatment in the two groups ( P <0.05), and the scores in the observation group were lower than those in the control group ( P <0.05); the scores of each item in SF-36 were elevated in comparison with those before treatment in the two groups ( P <0.05), and the scores in the observation group were higher than those in the control group ( P <0.05). After treatment, the total effective rate of the observation group was 91.1% (41/45), higher than that (76.7%, 33/43) of the control group ( P <0.05). In follow-up visit, the total effective rate of the observation group was 91.1% (41/45), which was higher than 72.1% (31/43) of the control group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: Guasha - fangsha therapy combined with electroacupuncture can effectively relieve greater occipital neuralgia, alleviate pain severity, ameliorate anxiety and depression and improve the quality of life in the patients.

Objective: To explore the potential mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) for vascular dementia (VD) using tandem mass tag (TMT) quantitative proteomics technology., Methods: Among 80 male SPF SD rats, 78 rats which met the selection criteria through the Morris water maze test were selected and randomly divided into a sham surgery group (18 rats) and a surgery group (60 rats). VD model was established by four-vessel occlusion (4-VO) method in the surgery group, and 36 rats with successful modeling were randomly assigned to a model group (18 rats) and an EA group (18 rats). Each group was further divided into three subgroups based on intervention duration, with each subgroup containing 6 rats. Seven days after model establishment, the EA group received EA intervention at left and right "Sishencong" (EX-HN 1) and bilateral "Fengchi" (GB 20), with continuous wave at a frequency of 2 Hz and current intensity of 1 mA, daily for 30 min, with subgroups receiving EA for 7, 14, or 21 d respectively. Cognitive function before and after interventions was assessed using Morris water maze. Proteomic analysis was conducted on the optimal EA subgroup and corresponding sham surgery and model subgroups, identifying differentially expressed proteins and analyzing them through bioinformatics. Differentially expressed target proteins was performed using parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) and Western blot techniques., Results: Compared to the sham surgery group, the model group exhibited prolonged escape latency and reduced number of platform crossings ( P <0.01); compared with model group, the EA group showed reductions in escape latency and increased platform crossings after 7, 14, and 21 days of intervention ( P <0.01, P <0.05). Compared to the 7 and 14-day intervention, the rats in the EA group of 21-day intervention showed the most significant improvements in reductions of escape latency and increased platform crossings ( P <0.01, P <0.05), and was selected for further proteomic, PRM analyses, and Western blot validation. Compared to the sham surgery group, the model group displayed 71 differentially expressed proteins, with 50 up-regulated and 21 down-regulated proteins; compared to the model group, the EA group had 54 differentially expressed proteins, with 30 up-regulated and 24 down-regulated proteins. Functional enrichment and clustering analyses indicated that these proteins were primarily associated with cellular processes, metabolic processes, phagocytosis recognition, immune response, and regulation of extracellular matrix, etc. Enrichment was observed in the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and neurotrophic factors signaling pathways, involving glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 2 (Map2k2), with PRM and Western blot findings consistent with the proteomic results. Which meant that compared with the model group, the protein expression of GSK3β and Map2k2 of hippocampus was increased in the EA group ( P <0.01, P <0.05)., Conclusion: EA at "Sishencong" (EX-HN 1) and "Fengchi" (GB 20) could improve cognitive function in VD rats, with the mechanism involving multiple targets and pathways, potentially related to GSK3β, Map2k2 proteins, and the mTOR and neurotrophic factor signaling pathways.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expression of serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and the pancreatic nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats, and to explore the possible mechanism by which EA improving the dedifferentiation of pancreatic β-cells in the treatment of T2DM., Methods: Among 18 SPF-grade male Wistar rats, 6 rats were randomly selected as the control group, and the remaining 12 rats were fed with high-sugar and high-fat diet combined with intraperitoneal injection of 2% streptozotocin solution (35 mg/kg) to establish T2DM model. After successful modeling, the 12 rats were randomly divided into a model group and an EA group, with 6 rats in each group. The EA group received EA at bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36), "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6), "Weiwanxiashu" (EX-B 3), and "Pishu" (BL 20), with continuous wave, frequency of 15 Hz, current intensity of 2 mA, for 20 min each time, once a day, 6 times a week, for a total of 6 weeks. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were measured before modeling and before and after intervention. After intervention, ELISA was used to detect the serum fasting insulin (FINS), IL-1β and TNF-α levels, and the β-cell function index (HOMA-β) and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) were calculated; HE staining was used to observe the morphology of the pancreatic islets; Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of pancreatic forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX-1), neurogenin 3 (NGN3), and NF-κB p65., Results: After intervention, the FBG in the model group was higher than that in the control group ( P <0.01), and the FBG in the EA group was lower than that in the model group ( P <0.01). Compared with the control group, the model group had increased levels of serum FINS, IL-1β, TNF-α, and HOMA-IR ( P <0.01), and decreased HOMA-β ( P <0.01), reduced protein expression of pancreatic FoxO1 and PDX-1 ( P <0.01), and increased protein expression of pancreatic NGN3 and NF-κB p65 ( P <0.01, P <0.05). Compared with the model group, the EA group had lower serum FINS, IL-1β, TNF-α levels, and HOMA-IR ( P <0.01), higher HOMA-β ( P <0.05), increased protein expression of pancreatic FoxO1 and PDX-1 ( P <0.01, P <0.05), and decreased protein expression of pancreatic NGN3 and NF-κB p65 ( P <0.01, P <0.05). The control group's pancreatic islets showed no obvious abnormalities; the model group's pancreatic islets were irregular in shape and had unclear boundaries with the surrounding area, with immune cell infiltration, reduced β-cell nuclei, disordered arrangement of islet cells, and increased intercellular spaces; the EA group showed improvements in islet morphology, immune cell infiltration, β-cell nuclei count, and the arrangement and spacing of islet cells approaching normal., Conclusion: EA could lower the blood glucose levels in T2DM rats, alleviate chronic inflammatory responses in the islets, and improve the dedifferentiation of pancreatic β-cells, which may be related to the inhibition of pancreatic NF-κB pathway expression.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the autophagy of ovarian granulosa cells in rats with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and explore the mechanism of EA in improving POI., Methods: Thirty-two female SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group ( n =8) and a model making group ( n =24). The rats in the model making group were injected intraperitoneally with cyclophosphamide for 15 days to establish the POI model (the dosage on the 1st day was 50 mg/kg, and 8 mg/kg from the 2nd day to 15th day). The successfully modeled rats were then randomly divided into a model group, an EA group, and an estradiol (E2) group, with 8 rats in each group. Rats in the EA group received EA at bilateral "Gongsun" (SP 4) with continuous wave, frequency of 2 Hz, and current intensity of 0.1 to 1 mA, 20 min per treatment, once daily for 14 days. Rats in the E2 group were administered with E2 (0.01 mg/mL) by gavage (10 mL/kg), once daily for 14 days. The changes in estrous cycle were observed by rapid Giemsa staining before and after modeling. After intervention, ovarian tissue morphology was observed by HE staining; serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), E2, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and inhibin B (INHB) were detected by ELISA; immunofluorescence staining was used to observe the expression of p62 in ovarian granulosa cells; the ultrastructure of ovarian granulosa cells was observed by transmission electron microscopy, and the number of autophagosomes and autolysosomes was compared; Western blot and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR were used to detect the protein and mRNA expression of p62, Beclin-1, and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3) in ovarian tissue., Results: The results of vaginal smears in the blank group showed regular cyclical changes; the rats in the model group showed prolonged estrous cycle or cycle arrest, mostly in proestrus or metestrus, with overall ovarian atrophy, disordered structure, and decreased granulosa cells. Compared with the blank group, rats in the model group showed increased serum FSH level ( P <0.01), decreased serum levels of E2, AMH, and INHB ( P <0.01), decreased positive expression of p62 in ovarian granulosa cells ( P <0.01), with obvious swelling of ovarian granulosa cells, mild to moderate swelling of mitochondria, slight expansion of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and hypertrophy of Golgi apparatus; the number of autophagosomes and autolysosomes in the ovaries was increased ( P <0.01), the expression of p62 protein and mRNA was decreased ( P <0.01), and the expression of Beclin-1 and LC3 protein and mRNA in ovarian tissue was increased ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, rats in the EA group and the E2 group showed decreased serum FSH levels ( P <0.01), increased levels of E2, AMH, and INHB ( P <0.01), increased positive expression of p62 in ovarian granulosa cells ( P <0.01), alleviated degree of ovarian granulosa cell damage, with relatively intact organelle morphology, and decreased number of autophagosomes and autolysosomes in the ovaries ( P <0.01); the rats also showed increased expression of p62 protein and mRNA ( P <0.01), and decreased expression of Beclin-1 and LC3 protein and mRNA ( P <0.01) in ovarian tissue., Conclusion: EA at "Gongsun" (SP 4) could improve ovarian reserve function in POI rats by reducing the number of autophagosomes and autolysosomes, up-regulating p62 expression, and down-regulating Beclin-1 and LC3 expression, thus inhibiting autophagy of ovarian granulosa cells, and regulating the serum levels of FSH, E2, AMH, and INHB.

Professor LIU Zhishun 's clinical experience of electroacupuncture (EA) for pediatric neurogenic bladder of lower motor neuron type in children is summarized. Considering the unique physiological and pathological characteristics of children, with the strategy of combining "disease-symptom-location" in the selection of acupoints, professor LIU Zhishun proposes that the main disease location is the bladder and kidney, with the involvement of the conception vessel, governor vessel, kidney meridian of foot- shaoyin and the bladder meridian of foot- taiyang . The primary acupoint prescription-1 (bilateral Zhongliao [BL 33], Ciliao [BL 32] and Huiyang [BL 35]) and primary acupoint prescription-2 (Guanyuan [CV 4], Zhongji [CV 3] and bilateral Sanyinjiao [SP 6]) are selected to promote the yang of the governor vessel, stimulate the yin of the conception vessel, and invigorate the bladder's qi transformation. Before acupuncture, the four-step method is applied to precisely locate Ciliao (BL 32) and Zhongliao (BL 33). During acupuncture, the importance of achieving deqi is emphasized, with deep insertion in the sacral area to reach the disease location. Based on the tolerance characteristics of children, low-frequency EA and gentle moxibustion treatment are applied.

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of repetitive transcranial acupuncture stimulation (rTAS) combined with electroacupuncture (EA) in treatment of acute facial palsy with retroauricular pain., Methods: Sixty-eight patients of acute facial palsy with retroauricular pain were randomly divided into an observation group (34 cases, 3 cases dropped out) and a control group (34 cases, 3 cases dropped out). On the basis of conventional therapy, in the control group, Yangbai (GB 14), Cuanzhu (BL 2), Sibai (ST 2), Quanliao (SI 18), Dicang (ST 4), Yifeng (TE 17), Qianzheng (Extra point) and Taiyang (EX-HN 5) on the affected side, and bilateral Hegu (LI 4) were selected. EA was attached to Yangbai (GB 14) and Cuanzhu (BL 2), and Sibai (ST 2) and Dicang (ST 4), respectively, using intermittent wave. In the observation group, on the basis of the regimen as the control group, rTAS was delivered at Baihui (GV 20) and the 1/5 of the lower motor area on the bilateral sides; EA of dense wave was given at the sites of the mastoidⅠand Ⅱ. The intervention of each group was delivered once a day, 6 times a week as one course for 4 courses and taking a day off every course. Before treatment and at the moment after the first treatment completion, the score of visual analogue scale (VAS) was observed in the two groups and the days of retroauricular pain were recorded. Before and after treatment, the score of Sunnybrook facial grading system (SFGS), the grade of House-Brackmann facial nerve function evaluation system (H-B), the latency and amplitude of the motor conduction from the foramina stylomastoideum to the frontal muscle, the orbicularis oris muscle and the orbicularis oculi muscle on the affected facial nerve, were observed in the patients of two groups and the clinical effect was compared between the two groups after treatment., Results: After treatment, SFGS score was increased ( P <0.05), H-B grade was improved ( P <0.05), the latency was shortened in the motor conduction from the foramina stylomastoideum to the frontal muscle, the orbicularis oris muscle and the orbicularis oculi muscle on the affected facial nerve ( P <0.05) and its amplitude elevated ( P <0.05) when compared with those before treatment in the two groups. In the observation group, SFGS score was higher ( P <0.05), H-B grade was superior ( P <0.05), the latency was shorter in the motor conduction from the foramina stylomastoideum to the frontal muscle, the orbicularis oris muscle and the orbicularis oculi muscle on the affected facial nerve ( P <0.05) and its amplitude was higher ( P <0.05) when compared with those of the control group after treatment. After the completion of the first treatment, VAS score of either group was reduced in comparison with that before treatment ( P <0.05), and the score in the observation group was lower than that of the control group ( P <0.05). The duration of retroauricular pain was shortened in the observation group when compared with that of the control group ( P <0.05). The total effective rate was 87.1% (27/31) in the observation group, which was higher than 77.4% (24/31) of the control group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: The rTAS combined with EA is effective for reducing neurologic impairment of acute facial palsy and alleviating retroauricular pain in the patients.

Objective: To observe the effect and mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) on non-canonical pathway of hepatocellular pyroptosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)., Methods: Sixty male SD rats were randomly divided into a normal diet group ( n =15) and a high fat modeling group ( n =45). The rats in the high fat modeling group were fed with customized high fat diet for 8 weeks to establish NAFLD model. Thirty successfully modeled rats were selected and randomly divided into a model group ( n =10), an EA group ( n =10) and a non-acupoint with shallow needling group ( n =10), and 10 rats were randomly selected from the normal diet group as the control group additionally. In the EA group, EA was applied at bilateral "Fenglong" (ST 40) and "Ganshu" (BL 18), with disperse-dense wave, in frequency of 4 Hz/20 Hz and in intensity of 3 mA. In the non-acupoint with shallow needling group, shallow needling was delivered at points 5 mm from bilateral "Fenglong" (ST 40) and "Ganshu" (BL 18), the EA stimulation parameters were same as the EA group. The intervention was given once a day, 20 min a time, 5 days a week for 4 weeks in the two groups. After intervention, the liver morphology was observed by oil red "O" staining, the serum levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by ELISA, the protein expression of gasdermin D (GSDMD), GSDMD-N, cysteine aspartic acid specific protease-11 (Caspase-11), IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α in liver tissue were detected by Western blot, the mRNA expression of GSDMD, Caspase-11, IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α in liver tissue was detected by real-time PCR in rats of each group., Results: In the model group, vacuoles in different size were found in the hepatocellular cytoplasm, and the fat droplets were in schistose accumulation. Compared with the model group, the hepatocellular fat droplets and the degree of hepatic steatosis were reduced in the EA group and the non-acupoint with shallow needling group. Compared with the control group, the serum levels of LPS, IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α were increased ( P <0.01), the protein and mRNA expression of GSDMD, Caspase-11, IL-1β, IL-18, TNF-α as well as the protein expression of GSDMD-N in the liver tissue were increased ( P <0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group, the serum levels of LPS, IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α were decreased ( P <0.01), the protein and mRNA expression of GSDMD, IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α in the liver tissue were decreased ( P <0.01), the protein expression of GSDMD-N and the mRNA expression of Caspase-11 in the liver tissue were decreased ( P <0.01) in the EA group and the non-acupoint with shallow needling group. Compared with the model group, the protein expression of Caspase-11 in the liver tissue was decreased ( P <0.01) in the EA group. Compared with the non-acupoint with shallow needling group, the serum levels of LPS, IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α were decreased ( P <0.01), the protein and mRNA expression of GSDMD, Caspase-11, IL-1β and IL-18 in the liver tissue were decreased ( P <0.01), the protein expression of GSDMD-N and the mRNA expression of TNF-α in the liver tissue were decreased ( P <0.01) in the EA group., Conclusion: EA can inhibit hepatocellular pyroptosis in NAFLD rats, and its mechanism may be related to reducing the serum level of LPS, and down-regulating the expression of the non-canonical pathway related factors i.e. GSDMD, GSDMD-N, Caspase-11, IL-1β, IL-18 and TNF-α.

The research history, hot spots and frontier trends of acupuncture and moxibustion for Alzheimer's disease (AD) were explored using knowledge graph technology. The articles on acupuncture and moxibustion for AD were searched from 6 databases, i.e. CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, SinoMed, Pubmed and Web of Science, from January 1st, 1993 to January 1st, 2023. Using CiteSpace6.2.R2 Advance and VOSviewer V1.6.19 softwares, the knowledge map was graphed and the visual analysis was performed. A total of 1 228 Chinese and 309 English articles were included. The high-frequency keywords were generally divided into the keywords of clinical diseases (AD, dementia), those of therapeutic methods (electroacupuncture, acupuncture-moxibustion and acupuncture) and those of mechanism study (β-amyloid, mice). Thirteen keyword clusters were formed among the articles of Chinese version, e.g. acupuncture-moxibustion, dementia, acupuncture and electroacupuncture; and 8 clusters were obtained among English articles, e.g. electroacupuncture, drug therapy and hippocampus. The high-frequency keywords of acupoints included Baihui (GV 20), Dazhui (GV 14), Yintang (GV 24 + ), Zusanli (ST 36), Fenglong (ST 40), etc. Six clusters of "acupuncture techniques → acupoints" were obtained for the treatment of AD with acupuncture and moxibustion. The therapeutic methods and modes of AD with acupuncture and moxibustion are constantly progressed, the development of clinical research tends to the evaluation of novel therapeutic mode and clinical effect, and the mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion for the effect on AD are more deeply explored. Among the various therapeutic methods, acupuncture-moxibustion, acupuncture and electroacupuncture have been early predominant; while, many novel methods are gradually displayed later, such as music electroacupuncture and hydro-acupuncture. In recent 30 years, among Chinese and English articles for the studies of AD treated with acupuncture and moxibustion, the theme of them focuses on the two aspects, the observation of clinical effect and the mechanism research. It is found that the clinical therapeutic methods have been gradually improved and the mechanism exploration been deepened.

Objectives: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) with "intestinal disease prescription" on the intestinal mucosal barrier and NLRP3 inflammasome in rats with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute ulcerative colitis (UC), and explore the underlying mechanism of EA with "intestinal disease prescription" for the treatment of UC., Methods: Thirty-two healthy male SPF-grade SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, a medication group, and an EA group, with 8 rats in each group. Except for the blank group, the UC model was established by administering 5% DSS solution for 7 days. After modeling, the rats in the medication group were treated with mesalazine suspension (200 mg/kg) by gavage, while the rats in the EA group were treated with acupuncture at bilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25), "Shangjuxu" (ST 37) and "Zhongwan" (CV 12), with the ipsilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25) and "Shangjuxu" (ST 37) connected to the electrodes of the EA instrument, using disperse-dense wave, with a frequency of 10 Hz/50 Hz, and each intervention lasted for 20 minutes. Both interventions were performed once daily for 3 days. The general conditions of rats were observed daily. After intervention, the disease activity index (DAI) score was calculated; colon tissue morphology was observed using HE staining; serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-18, IL-1β) were measured by ELISA; protein expression of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), and Caspase-1 in colon tissues was detected by Western blot; positive expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and Occludin in colon tissues was examined by immunofluorescence., Results: Compared with the blank group, the rats in the model group exhibited poor general conditions, slow body weight gain, shortened colon length ( P <0.01), increased DAI score and spleen index ( P <0.01), elevated serum IL-18 and IL-1β levels, and increased protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 in colon tissues ( P <0.01), along with decreased positive expression of ZO-1 and Occludin in colon tissues ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, the rats in the medication group and the EA group exhibited improved general conditions, accelerated body weight gain, increased colon length ( P <0.05), reduced DAI scores and spleen indexes ( P <0.05), decreased serum IL-18 and IL-1β levels, and lower protein expression of NLRP3, ASC and Caspase-1 in colon tissues ( P <0.05), as well as increased positive expression of ZO-1 and Occludin in colon tissues ( P <0.05). There were no significant differences in the above indexes between the medication group and the EA group ( P >0.05). Compared with the blank group, the rats in the model group exhibited disrupted colon mucosal morphology, disordered gland arrangement, and atrophy of crypts, along with significant inflammatory cell infiltration. Compared with the model group, the rats in both the medication group and the EA group showed relatively intact colon mucosal morphology, with restored and improved gland and crypt structures, and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration., Conclusions: EA with "intestinal disease prescription" has a significant therapeutic effect on DSS-induced UC, possibly by regulating the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and proteins related to the intestinal mucosal barrier, thereby alleviating symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

The paper summarizes the clinical experience of professor ZHANG Ren in the staging treatment with characteristic acupuncture techniques for oculomotor paralysis. According to the symptoms of oculomotor paralysis, the staging treatment is given, in which acupuncture is dominant and the needling techniques are optioned in compliance with the symptoms. In the early, middle and late stages of illness, three different acupuncture therapies are delivered accordingly, i.e. the combination of the point-toward-point needling at the four acupoints located on the forehead and the electroacupuncture with disperse-dense wave, the surrounding needling and the triple needling at the acupoints around the eyeball, as well as the perpendicular needle insertion at the three acupoints within the orbit. Professor ZHANG Ren lays the stress on identifying the etiology and differentiating the symptoms, as well as the early intervention for the disease. For the intractable cases, the comprehensive regimen such as acupoint injection, dermal needling and auricular point sticking is supplemented. During treatment, the spirit harmonization is greatly considered to ensure the effectiveness. On the basis of the staging acupuncture therapy, the acupuncture technique for harmonizing the spirit and regulating qi is combined to obtain the favorable clinical effect on oculomotor paralysis.

Objectives: To explore the clinical effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on promoting gastrointestinal function recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy., Methods: One hundred and twenty patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy were randomly divided into an EA group (40 cases, 1 case was eliminated), a placebo EA (PEA) group (40 cases, 1 case dropped out) and a conventional treatment group (40 cases, 1 case dropped out). The patients in the conventional treatment group received perioperative routine treatment. On the basis of routine treatment, patients in the EA group and the PEA group were given electroacupuncture or placebo electroacupuncture stimulation at 24,48 and 72 h after anesthesia recovery. Bilateral Neiguan (PC 6), Zusanli (ST 36) and Shangjuxu (ST 37) were selected, and the electrodes of SDV-Z electroacupuncture instrument were connected to Zusanli (ST 36) and Shangjuxu (ST 37) on the same side respectively. Continuous wave was selected, the frequency was 5 Hz, and the needles were retained for 30 min each time. The postoperative gastrointestinal-2 ( GI-2 ) time, the incidence of grade A/B delayed gastric emptying were compared among the three groups, and the safety of acupuncture was evaluated., Results: The GI-2 time of the EA group was significantly shorter than that of the PEA group and the conventional treatment group ( P <0.05). The incidence of grade A and grade B of delayed gastric emptying in the EA group was lower than that in the PEA group and the conventional treatment group ( P <0.05). No acupuncture-related adverse reactions occurred., Conclusions: EA can promote the recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy, and the treatment plan is safe, which is worthy of promotion and application into the enhanced recovery surgery program.

Objectives: To observe the effects of Lizhong Tongmai acupuncture (acupuncture for regulating middle jiao and promoting meridians) on trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), CD36 expression, and cholesterol deposition in atherosclerotic (AS) mice, exploring potential mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) in treating AS., Methods: A total of 31 male SPF-grade C57BL/6J ApoE-/- mice were fed with high-fat diet for 8 weeks to establish AS model. After successful modeling, the remaining 30 mice were randomly divided into a model group, a medication group, and an EA group, with 10 mice in each group. An additional 10 normal mice of the same strain were selected as a blank group. The mice in the blank group and the model group received no intervention. The mice in the medication group were treated with intragastric administration of atorvastatin calcium. The mice in the EA group were treated with EA at "Neiguan" (PC 6), "Tianshu" (ST 25) and "Zusanli" (ST 36). The same-side "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Zusanli" (ST 36), "Tianshu" (ST 25) and the tail of the mice were connected to the EA apparatus, with disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2 Hz/15 Hz, and a current intensity of 0.3 mA for 10 min per session. Acupuncture was performed unilaterally per session, alternating between the left and right sides, with a frequency of once every other day. After intervention, HE staining was used to observe the pathological morphology of the aorta. Microplate assays were conducted to measure triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in serum. Ultra high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry technique (UPLC-MS) was employed to detect TMAO level in plasma. Western blot was performed to assess CD36 protein expression level in the aorta. Microanalysis was used to measure cholesterol ester (CE) level in the aorta and the CE/TC ratio was calculated., Results: Compared with the blank group, the mice in the model group exhibited significant pathological changes of atherosclerosis, serum TG, TC, LDL-C levels were increased ( P <0.01), and HDL-C level was decreased ( P <0.01); the plasma TMAO level, aortic CE level, and the CE/TC ratio were increased ( P <0.01), along with elevated CD36 protein expression level in the aorta ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, the mice in the medication group and the EA group showed improvements in aortic pathology, serum TG, TC, LDL-C levels were reduced, HDL-C levels were increased ( P <0.05); plasma TMAO levels, aortic CE levels, and the CE/TC ratio were decreased ( P <0.01), and CD36 protein expression levels were lowered ( P <0.05). The serum TG and TC levels in the EA group were higher than those in the medication group ( P <0.05)., Conclusions: The Lizhong Tongmai acupuncture can ameliorate aortic pathological changes, regulate blood lipid levels, reduce plasma TMAO level, inhibit CD36 protein expression in the aorta, and decrease cholesterol deposition. These effects may contribute to the therapeutic mechanism of EA in treating AS.

Objectives: To investigate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the miR-381, leucine-rich repeat C4 protein (LRRC4), and downstream stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1)/CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) signaling pathway in rat model of ischemic stroke, and to explore the mechanism by which EA improves neurological damage following ischemic stroke., Methods: Among 50 SPF male SD rats, 10 rats were randomly selected into a sham surgery group, and the remaining rats were used to establish the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. The 30 successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into a model group, an EA group, and an agonist group, with 10 rats in each group. The rats in the EA group received EA at "Baihui" (GV 20) and "Dazhui" (GV 14), with disperse-dense wave, a frequency of 2 Hz/10 Hz, and a current intensity of 1 mA, 30 min per session, once daily for a total of 14 days. The rats in the agonist group received miR-381 agonist injections into the lateral ventricle, with 10 μL per injection, every 7 days for a total of 2 injections. After intervention, ZeaLonga neurobehavioral deficit score was observed in each group. HE staining was performed to observe the morphological changes in the ischemic brain tissue of rats in each group. ELISA was used to measure the levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and nerve growth factor (NGF) in serum. Western blot was employed to detect the protein expression of LRRC4, SDF-1, CXCR4, and extracellular regulated protein kinase 1 (ERK1) in the ischemic brain tissue. Real-time PCR was utilized to assess the expression of miR-381 and LRRC4, SDF-1, CXCR4, ERK1 mRNA in the ischemic brain tissue., Results: After intervention, the brain tissue showed disordered cell arrangement, reduced quantity, and significant interstitial edema, with numerous vacuoles in the model group. The pathological changes mentioned above were alleviated in the brain tissue of rats in the EA group and the agonist group. Compared with the sham surgery group, the rats in the model group exhibited increased ZeaLonga neurobehavioral deficit scores, elevated levels of serum TNF-α and IL-6 ( P <0.01), and decreased serum NGF level ( P <0.01)；the protein expression of SDF-1, CXCR4 and ERK1 in ischemic brain tissue was reduced ( P <0.01), while LRRC4 protein expression was increased ( P <0.01)；the expression of miR-381, as well as SDF-1, CXCR4 and ERK1 mRNA in ischemic brain tissue was decreased ( P <0.01), while LRRC4 mRNA expression was increased ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, the rats in the EA group and the agonist group showed decreased ZeaLonga neurobehavioral deficit scores and reduced levels of serum TNF-α and IL-6 ( P <0.05, P <0.01), and increased serum NGF levels ( P <0.05, P <0.01); the protein expression of SDF-1, CXCR4 and ERK1 in ischemic brain tissue was increased ( P <0.01), while LRRC4 protein expression was decreased ( P <0.01)；the expression of miR-381, as well as SDF-1, CXCR4 and ERK1 mRNA in ischemic brain tissue was increased ( P <0.05, P <0.01), while LRRC4 mRNA expression was decreased ( P <0.01)., Conclusions: EA at "Baihui" (GV 20) and "Dazhui" (GV 14) may promote the repair of neurological damage following ischemic stroke by up-regulating miR-381 to selectively inhibit LRRC4 expression, thereby activating the SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling pathway.

Pain is a complex process of electrical signal transmission. Electroacupuncture may adjust the bioelectric state of the tissues in painful sites through electrical characteristic structural units (acupoints), thereby exerting analgesic effect. The treatment of diseases with electroacupuncture results from the interaction between the external electric field and the electrical properties of acupoint tissues. Therefore, the state of biological tissues and the parameters of electroacupuncture all affect the therapeutic effect.

Objectives: To observe the changes in the regional homogeneity (ReHo) and functional brain network in treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) with anxiety and depression comorbidity with the mind-regulation electroacupuncture (EA), using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI)., Methods: Thirty CFS patients with anxiety and depression comorbidity were enrolled from medical staffs as the observation group. The other 30 healthy subjects were recruited from medical university students as the control group, matching gender, age and education years with the observation group. No any acupuncture intervention was delivered in the control group, and EA for regulating the mind was operated in the observation group. Main points were the emotional area of Sun 's scalp acupuncture, the regions 1 and 8 of Sun 's abdominal acupuncture. Supplementary acupoints included Baihui (GV 20), Guanyuan (CV 4) and bilateral., Results: The scores of the five domains in MFI-20 (i.e. general fatigue, physical fatigue, mental fatigue, reduced motivation and reduced activity), the total score of MFI-20, and the scores of SDS, SAS and PSQI in the observation group before treatment were higher than those of the control group ( P< 0.05). Except the score of reduced motivation in MFI-20, the scores of the other domains and the total score of MFI-20, as well as the scores of SDS, SAS and PSQI after treatment were lower than those before treatment in the observation group ( P< 0.05). Compared with the values before treatment, ReHo value was increased in the the right precuneus and decreased in the left inferior temporal gyrus and the left angular gyrus of the brain in the observation group after treatment. In the observation group, when compared with the control group, ReHo values were increased in the left inferior cerebral lobe, the interhemispheric region, the right occipital lobe and the thalamus; and it was reduced in the left middle temporal gyrus, the right posterior central gyrus, the right middle temporal gyrus, the right orbital middle frontal gyrus, the paracentral lobule and the right fusiform gyrus before treatment. In the observation group, the functional connectivity was decreased between the right thalamus and the left posterior central gyrus, the right hippocampus and the right fusiform gyrus before treatment, respectively; it was re-constructed after treatment between the right thalamus and the left posterior central gyrus, and the right fusiform gyrus. Compared with the control group, the functional connectivity between the right thalamus and the left posterior central gyrus, the right hippocampus, and the right fusiform gyrus was reduced before treatment; while after treatment, the functional connectivity was reduced between the right thalamus and the hippocampus in the observation group. With Spearman correlation analysis between the differential brain regions and the scores of MFI-20, SAS, SDS and PSQI, it was found that the left middle temporal gyrus, the paracentral lobule, the right precuneus, and the left inferior temporal gyrus had a partial positive correlation with the above clinical scales; and the interhemispheric region, the thalamus, the right fusiform gyrus, and the right middle temporal gyrus showed a partial negative correlation., Conclusions: There is the decrease of ReHo in many brain regions and the numbers of the local brain functional network connectivity in CFS patients with anxiety and depression comorbidity. The mind-regulation electroacupuncture therapy may relieve the clinical symptoms of the patients through adjusting the abnormal brain regions and activating emotion-related brain regions.

Objectives: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Zhongwan" (CV 12) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) on gastric motility and explore the response time of the acupoints at different regions for regulating gastric motility and its neuromechanism., Methods: Thirty-three SD rats were randomly divided into a normal group, a vagectomy group and a splanchnicotomy group, 11 rats in each one. Vagectomy and splanchnicotomy were operated in the rats of the vagectomy group and the splanchnicotomy group, respectively. In each group, EA was delivered at "Zhongwan" (CV 2) and "Zusanli"(ST 36) on the left successively (with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/15 Hz in frequency and 2 mA in intensity); and it was performed at one acupoint for 1 min. Using multiple physiological signal collecting system, the intragastric pressure was measured 1 min before EA and in 0 s to 60 s, 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s of EA in the rats of each group, separately. The change rate of intragastric pressure was calculated to compare the effect size among groups., Results: 1) Compared with that before intervention, in the normal group, the intragastric pressure was dropped in 0 s to 60 s, 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s of EA at "Zhongwan" (CV 12) ( P< 0.01); and it was elevated in 0 s to 60 s and 30 s to 60 s of EA at "Zusanli" (ST 36) ( P< 0.01). 2) In 0 s to 60 s, 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s of EA at "Zhongwan" (CV 12), the intragastric pressure decreased when compared with that before intervention in both the vagectomy group and the splanchnicotomy group ( P< 0.01, P< 0.05); and it increased in 0 s to 60 s, 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s of EA at "Zusanli" (ST 36) in the splanchnicotomy group ( P< 0.05). 3) Compared with the normal group, the inhibition effect size was reduced in 30 s to 60 s of EA at "Zhongwan" (CV 12) in the vagectomy group ( P <0.01), and in 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s of EA at "Zhongwan" (CV 12) in the splanchnicotomy group ( P< 0.01). During EA at "Zhongwan" (CV 12) for 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s, the inhibition effect size was declined more obviously in the splanchnicotomy group when compared with that in the vagectomy group ( P <0.01). The excitation effect size was dropped in the vagectomy group when EA at "Zusanli" (ST 36) for 30 s to 60 s compared with the normal group ( P <0.01), while it increased during 0 s to 30 s in the splanchnicotomy group ( P <0.05). Compared with that of the vagectomy group, the excitation effect size increased more remarkably in the splanchnicotomy group when EA at "Zusanli" (ST 36) for 0 s to 30 s and 30 s to 60 s ( P <0.01)., Conclusions: Electroacupuncture at the acupoints of different regions differ in the response time and neuromechanism for regulating gastric motility of normal rats. The response time at "Zhongwan" (CV 12) is short and the effect of this acupoint works fast within 30 s; while that at "Zusanli" (ST 36) is prolonged and the effect starts 30 s later. In 0 s to 30 s of EA, the effect of "Zhongwan" (CV 12) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) is predominated by the splanchnic nerve; and in 30 s to 60 s, the effect of "Zhongwan" (CV 12) may be co-innervated by the splanchnic nerve and the vagus nerve, and that of "Zusanli" (ST 36) only by the vagus nerve.

Objectives: To observe the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA)combined with continuous adductor canal block (CACB)for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and to explore its effect on pain factor levels., Methods: Eighty-two patients with knee osteoarthritis undergoing unilateral TKA were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group, with 41 patients in each group. The patients in the control group were treated with CACB under ultrasound guidance on the affected side after removal of the endotracheal tube. In the observation group, electroacupuncture therapy was added on day 1-7 after operation; the acupoints included Hegu (LI 4), Zusanli (ST 36), Taichong (LR 3), Taixi (KI 3), Yinlingquan (SP 9)and Yanglingquan (GB 34), with disperse-dense wave, in frequency of 1 Hz/30 Hz, 30 min each session, once a day. The knee joint range of motion was compared between the two groups before operation and on postoperative day 1, 3, 7, and 14. The pain visual analog scale (VAS)scores were compared 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after operation. The number of times that the pain pump was pressed within 48 h after operation and the number of remedial analgesia were also compared. Serum levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)and β-endorphin (β-EP)were measured preoperatively and at 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after operation. Adverse reaction rates within 48 h after operation were documented., Results: On postoperative day 1, 3, and 7, the observation group exhibited greater knee joint range of motion than that in the control group ( P <0.05). At 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after operation, VAS scores at rest and during activity in the observation group were lower than those in the control group ( P <0.05). The observation group had lower numbers of pain pump use and remedial analgesia within 48 h after operation than those in the control group ( P <0.05). Serum PGE2 levels were lower in the observation group at 6, 12, and 24 h after operation ( P <0.05), while serum β-EP levels were higher ( P <0.05) than those in the control group. There was no statistical difference in the incidence of adverse reactions within 48 h after operation between the two groups ( P >0.05)., Conclusions: EA therapy could enhance the analgesic effect of CACB in TKA patients, possibly by decrease the content of PGE2 and increase the content of β-EP, with a high level of safety.

Objectives: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Zusanli"(ST 36) on the gastric emptying rate, the level of serotonin (5-HT) and the protein expression of motilin (MTL), ghrelin, substance P (SP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in the antral tissue of the rats with functional dyspepsia (FD) and explore the effect mechanism of EA in treatment of FD., Methods: A total of 21 SPF male SD rat pups were randomly divided into a normal group, a model group and an EA group, with 7 rats in each group. In the model group and the EA group, FD model was prepared by the gavage with 0.1% sucrose iodoacetamide solution combined with the modified small platform method. After the successful modeling, EA was applied to "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Zusanli"(ST 36) in the rats of the EA group, with disperse-dense wave, 20 Hz/100 Hz in frequency, stimulated for 30 min, once daily, for 7 days consecutively. Before and after intervention, the general condition of the rats was observed in each group. After the completion of intervention, the gastric emptying rate was measured, the morphological changes of gastric antral tissue were observed using HE staining, the level of 5-HT was detected with ELISA method, and the protein expression of MTL, ghrelin, SP, and VIP was determined with Western blot method in the antral tissue of rats., Results: In the normal group, the rats were in a good mental state, with lustrous fur, flexible movement and the increase of food intake and body mass. In the model group, the rats were poor in mental state, lack of lustre in fur, preference for the body curled up, reduced activity and response; and a part of rats had loose stool, obviously enlarged gastric body and gastric food retention. In the EA group, the general condition of rats, e.g. the mental state, food intake and activity, were improved, the gastric body got smaller obviously and the gastric food retention was reduced when compared with the model group. The antral structure was intact, the glands were rich and no injury of the gastric mucosa was found, e.g. inflammatory reaction and edema in the rats of each group. Compared with the normal group, the gastric emptying rate was decreased ( P <0.01), 5-HT level was increased ( P< 0.01), the protein expression of MTL and ghrelin was reduced ( P <0.01) and that of VIP was elevated ( P< 0.01) in the rats of the model group. The gastric emptying rate was increased ( P <0.01), 5-HT level was decreased ( P< 0.01), and the protein expression of MTL and ghrelin was elevated ( P <0.05, P< 0.01) in the rats of the EA group when compared with those in the model group., Conclusions: Electroacupuncture at "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Zusanli"(ST 36) may effectively relieve gastric dysfunction, strengthen gastric motility and promote gastric emptying so as to alleviate the symptoms of dyspepsia in FD rats, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of gastrointestinal hormones in the antral tissue.

Objectives: To observe the effects on the glucose-lipid metabolism and the expression of zinc-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG) and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in the femoral quadriceps and adipose tissue after electroacupuncture (EA) at "Pishu" (BL 20), "Weiwanxiashu" (EX-B 3), "Zusanli" (ST 36) and "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) in the rats with diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM), so as to explore the effect mechanism of EA in treatment of T2DM., Methods: Twelve ZDF male rats were fed with high-sugar and high-fat fodder, Purina #5008 for 4 weeks to induce T2DM model. After successfully modeled, the rats were randomly divided into a model group and an EA group, with 6 rats in each one. Additionally, 6 ZL male rats of the same months age were collected as the blank group. The rats in the EA group were treated with EA at bilateral "Pishu" (BL 20), "Weiwanxiashu" (EX-B 3), "Zusanli" (ST 36) and "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6), with continuous wave, 15 Hz in frequency, and 2 mA in intensity. The electric stimulation lasted 20 min each time. EA was delivered once daily, 6 times a week for 4 weeks. Separately, the levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG) was measured before modeling, before and after intervention, and the body mass of each rat was weighted before and after intervention. After intervention, the levels of the total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) in serum were detected using enzyme colorimetric method; and the levels of the serum insulin (INS) and ZAG were detected by ELISA. Besides, the insulin sensitivity index (HOMA-ISI) was calculated. With Western blot technique adopted, the protein expressions of ZAG and GLUT4 in the femoral quadriceps and adipose tissue were determined., Results: After intervention, compared with the blank group, the levels of FBG and body mass, and the levels of serum TC, TG, FFA and INS increased ( P< 0.01), while HOMA-ISI decreased ( P< 0.01); the level of ZAG in the serum and the protein expressions of ZAG and GLUT4 in the femoral quadriceps and adipose tissue dropped ( P< 0.01) in the model group. In the EA group, compared with the model group, the levels of FBG and body mass, and the levels of serum TC, TG, FFA and INS were reduced ( P< 0.01), and HOMA-ISI increased ( P< 0.01); the level of ZAG in the serum and the protein expressions of ZAG and GLUT4 in the femoral quadriceps and adipose tissue increased ( P< 0.01, P< 0.05)., Conclusions: Electroacupuncture can effectively regulate glucose-lipid metabolism, improve insulin resistance and sensitivity in the rats with T2DM, which is associated with the modulation of ZAG and GLUT4 expression in the skeletal muscle and adipose tissue.

Objectives: To investigate the cerebral metabolism in the patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus-associated cognitive dysfunction (T2DACD) and explore the mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) at the acupoints for Tiaozang Xingshen (adjusting zangfu function and rescuing the spirit) in treatment of T2DACD, using magnetic resonance spectroscopy., Methods: Fifteen patients with T2DACD (observation group) and 22 healthy subjects (control group) were enrolled. In the observation group, the patients were treated with EA for Tiaozang Xingshen at Baihui (GV 20) and Shenting (GV 24), and bilateral Feishu (BL 13), Pishu (BL 20), Shenshu (BL 23), Zusanli (ST 36), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Hegu (LI 4) and Taichong (LR 3). EA was operated with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/100 Hz in frequency and 0.1 mA to 1.0 mA in current intensity; 30 min each time, once daily. One course of EA consisted of 5 treatments, at the interval of 2 days and the intervention lasted 8 courses. Before treatment in the control group, before and after treatment in the observation group, the score of Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA), the score of clinical dementia rating (CDR), Flanker paradigm, Stroop paradigm, Nback paradigm, the score of self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), the score of self-rating depression scale (SDS), and the score of Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD) were evaluated separately; the glycolipid metabolic indexes (fasting plasma glucose [FPG], glycosylated hemoglobin type A1c [HbA1c], total cholesterol [TC], triacylglycerol [TG], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C] and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C]) were determined；with the magnetic resonance spectroscopy technique adopted, the metabolites in the basal ganglia area were detected. The correlation analysis was performed for the metabolite values with MoCA score, CDR score , Flanker paradigm, Stroop paradigm, and Nback paradigm., Results: Before treatment, compared with the control group, in the observation group, MoCA score was lower ( P <0.001), CDR score and the levels of FPG and HbA1c were higher ( P< 0.001); the reaction times of Flanker non-conflict, Flanker conflict, Stroop neutrality, Stroop congruence, Stroop conflict, and 1-back were prolonged ( P< 0.05, P< 0.001), and the accuracy of Flanker conflict, Stroop conflict, and 1-back decreased ( P< 0.05, P< 0.01); the ratio of N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) to creatine (Cr) in the left basal ganglia area was dropped ( P< 0.001), and that of myo-inositol (MI) to Cr in the right side increased ( P< 0.05). In the observation group after treatment, compared with the levels before treatment, MoCA score was higher ( P< 0.001), the scores of CDR, SAS and HAMD were reduced ( P< 0.01, P< 0.05), the reaction times of Flanker conflict and Stroop conflict shortened ( P< 0.001, P< 0.05), and the accuracy of Flanker conflict and 1-back increased ( P< 0.001, P< 0.05); the ratio of NAA to Cr in the left basal ganglia area and that of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to Cr in the right increased ( P< 0.05), that of MI to Cr in the right decreased ( P< 0.05). Before treatment, in the observation group, the ratio of MI to Cr in the right basal ganglia area was positively correlated with the reaction time of Stroop congruence ( r =0.671, P= 0.012) and this ratio was positively correlated with the reaction time of Stroop conflict ( r= 0.576, P= 0.039)., Conclusions: Electroacupuncture for "adjusting zangfu function and rescuing the mind" improves the cognitive function of T2DACD patients, which may be related to the regulation of NAA, MI and GABA levels in the basal ganglia.

Objectives: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Jiaji" (EX-B 2) combined with neurodynamic mobilization (NM) on the cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius muscle fibers after sciatic nerve injury in rabbits, and the expression of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and muscle-specific ring-finger protein 1 (MuRF1)., Methods: A total of 180 common-grade New Zealand rabbits (half male and half female) were randomly divided into five groups, i.e. a normal control group, a model control group, a NM group, an EA group and a combined intervention group, 36 rabbits in each group. Except in the normal control group, clipping method was used to prepare the model of sciatic nerve injury in the rest groups. On the 3rd day of successful modeling, NM was delivered in the NM group. In the EA group, EA was exerted at bilateral "Jiaji" (EX-B 2) of L 4 to L 6 , stimulated with disperse-dense wave and the frequency of 2 Hz/100 Hz. In the combined intervention group, after EA delivered at bilateral "Jiaji" (EX-B 2) of L 4 to L 6 , NM was operated. The intervention in each group was delivered once daily, for 6 days a week, and lasted 1, 2 or 4 weeks according to the collection time of sample tissue. After 1, 2 and 4 weeks of intervention, in each group, the toe tension reflex score and the modified Tarlov test score were observed; the morphology of the gastrocnemius muscle was observed by HE staining and the cross-sectional area of muscular fiber was measured; using Western blot method, the expression of NF-κB and MuRF1 of the gastrocnemius muscle was detected., Results: After 1, 2 and 4 weeks of intervention, the toe tension reflex scores and the modified Tarlov scores in the model control group were lower than those of the normal control group ( P< 0.05), and these two scores in the NM group, the EA group and the combined intervention group were all higher than those of the model control group ( P <0.05); the scores in the combined intervention group were higher than those in the EA group and the NM group ( P< 0.05). The gastrocnemius fibers were well arranged and the myocyte morphology was normal in the normal control group. In the model control group, the gastrocnemius fibers were disarranged, the myocytes were irregular in morphology and the inflammatory cells were infiltrated in the local. In the NM group, the EA group and the combined intervention group, the muscle fibers were regularly arranged when compared with the model control group. After 1, 2 and 4 weeks of intervention, the cross-sectional areas of the gastrocnemius muscle fibers in the model control group were smaller than those of the normal control group ( P< 0.05). The cross-sectional areas in the NM group, the EA group and the combined intervention group were larger than those of the model control group ( P< 0.05), and the cross-sectional areas in the combined intervention group were larger than those in the NM group and the EA group ( P< 0.05). After intervention for 1, 2 and 4 weeks, the protein expressions of NF-κB and MuRF1 in the gastrocnemius muscle were higher in the model control group in comparison of those in the normal control group ( P <0.05). In the NM group, the EA group and the combined intervention group, the expressions of NF-κB after intervention for 1, 2 and 4 weeks and the expressions of MuRF1 after 2 and 4 weeks of intervention were lower when compared with those in the model control group ( P< 0.05). In the combined intervention group, the protein expressions of NF-κB after intervention for 1, 2 and 4 weeks and the expressions of MuRF1 after 2 and 4 weeks of intervention were decreased when compared with those in the NM group and the EA group ( P< 0.05)., Conclusions: Electroacupuncture at "Jiaji" (EX-B 2) combined with NM may increase the muscle strength and sciatic function and alleviate gastrocnemius muscle atrophy in the rabbits with sciatic nerve injury. The underlying mechanism is related to the inhibition of NF-κB and MuRF1 expression.

Objective: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Neiguan" (PC 6) on myocardial fibrosis in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and explore preliminarily the mediating role of cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) and its downstream nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway., Methods: Six 12-week-old WKY male rats were employed as the normal group. Eighteen 12-week-old SHR were randomly divided into 3 groups, i.e. a model group, an EA group and a blocking group (EA after blocking α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor [α7nAchR]), with 6 rats in each one. In the EA group, EA was delivered at "Neiguan"(PC 6) and the site 0.5 cm from its left side, with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/15 Hz in frequency and 1 mA in current intensity. One intervention took 30 min and was given once every 2 days, lasting 8 weeks. In the blocking group, prior to each EA, the α7nAchR specific blocker, α-bungartoxin was injected intravenously in the tails of the rats. After EA intervention, the systolic blood pressure (SBP), the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and the mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured with non-invasive blood pressure monitor. Using echocardiogram, the left ventricular (LV) anterior wall end-diastolic thickness (LVAWd) , LV posterior wall end-diastolic thickness (LVPWd) and the LV end-diastolic internal diameter (LVIDd) were measured. The level of hydroxyproline (Hyp) in the myocardial tissue was determined by using alkaline hydrolysis, and that of acetylcholine (Ach) was detected by ELISA. With the real-time PCR adopted, the mRNA expression of NF-κB p65, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were determined., Results: Compared with the normal group, SBP, DBP, MAP, LVAWd and LVPWd were increased ( P <0.01), and LVIDd was decreased ( P <0.01) in the rats of the model group. SBP, DBP, MAP and LVAWd were dropped ( P <0.01, P <0.05), and LVIDd rose ( P <0.01) in the EA group when compared with those in the model group. The differences in the above indexes were not statistically significant between the blocking group and the model group ( P >0.05). Compared with the normal group, Hyp level and the mRNA expression of NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in the myocardial tissue increased ( P <0.01, P <0.05) and Ach level decreased ( P <0.01) in the model group. Hyp level, the mRNA expression of NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in the myocardial tissue were reduced ( P <0.05, P <0.01) and Ach level rose ( P <0.01) in the EA group when compared with those in the model group. These indexes were not different statistically between the blocking group and the model group ( P >0.05)., Conclusion: CAP may be involved in ameliorating the pathological damage of myocardial fibrosis during EA at "Neiguan"(PC 6). The underlying effect mechanism is associated with up-regulating the neurotransmitter, Ach and down-regulating mRNA expression of NF-κB p65 and pro-inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in myocardial tissue.

Objective: To observe the effects on neural function, living ability and mental state of the patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), as well as aquaporin 4 (AQP4) in the serum after treated with electroacupuncture (EA) on the base of routine therapy of western medicine., Methods: Seventy-two acute ICH patients were randomized into an observation group (36 cases, 4 cases dropped off) and a control group (36 cases, 2 cases dropped off). In the control group, the conventional treatment was delivered such as stopping bleeding, preventing re-hemorrhage, controlling blood pressure, mitigating neural edema and reducing intracranial pressure. In the observation group, on the base of the treatment in the control group, EA was supplemented. Acupoints included Shuigou (GV 26), bilateral Neiguan (PC 6) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) etc. Electric stimulation was operated at Neiguan (PC 6) and Sanyinjiao (SP 6) on the same side, with disperse-dense wave, and 2 Hz/100 Hz in frequency, tolerable current intensity. Electric stimulation was delivered for 30 min in each treatment, once daily and for 6 times per week. The duration of treatment was 2 weeks in the two groups. Before and after treatment, changes of the scores of National Institutes of Health stroke scale (NIHSS), modified Barthel index (MBI) and mini-mental state examination (MMSE), as well as AQP4 content in the serum were observed in the two groups; the efficacy and safety were compared between the two groups., Results: The NIHSS scores and the serum AQP4 content decreased after treatment when compared with those before treatment in the two groups ( P <0.05), while, MBI and MMSE scores increased ( P <0.05). In the observation group, NIHSS score and serum AQP4 content were lower than those of the control group ( P <0.05), and MBI and MMSE scores were higher ( P <0.05). The total effective rate of the observation group was 93.8% (30/32), higher than that of the control group (73.5%, 25/34, P <0.05). The treatment in the two groups was safe, without adverse reactions and events occurring in the patients., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture, on the base of conventional treatment of western medicine, can effectively improve the neural function, living ability, mental state and serum AQP4 content of the patients with acute ICH. It is suggested that the effective treatment by electroacupuncture may be related to the regulation of the serum AQP4 content.

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture at acupoints of yangming meridians for sarcopenia., Methods: A total of 60 patients with sarcopenia were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 30 cases in each group. In the control group, conventional nutrition intervention for sarcopenia was adopted. In the observation group, on the basis of the treatment in the control group, acupuncture was applied at bilateral Binao (LI 14), Quchi (LI 11), Zusanli (ST 36), Yanglingquan (GB 34), etc.,ipsilateral Quchi (LI 11) and Zusanli (ST 36) were connected to electroacupuncture, with discontinuous wave, 2 Hz in frequency, 1-10 mA in intensity, 2 times a week, with a interval of 3 days. A total of 12-week treatment was required in the two groups. Before and after treatment, the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), grip strength, 6 m-walking time, body fat percentage and body moisture percentage were observed in the two groups., Results: Compared with those before treatment, after treatment, ASMI and grip strength were increased while 6 m-walking time was shortened in the two groups ( P <0.05); body fat percentage was decreased while body moisture percentage was increased in the observation group ( P <0.05). After treatment, in the observation group, ASMI, grip strength and body moisture percentage were increased ( P <0.05), 6 m-walking time was shortened and body fat percentage was decreased ( P <0.05) compared with those in the control group., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture at acupoints of yangming meridians can effectively improve the skeletal muscle mass, muscle function, body fat percentage and body moisture percentage in patients with sarcopenia, and make the distribution of muscle and fat more reasonable.

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of needle retaining after electroacupuncture combined with cognitive training and electroacupuncture combined with cognitive training in the treatment of post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI)., Methods: A total of 206 patients with PSCI were randomized into a needle retaining group (103 cases, 9 cases dropped out) and an electroacupuncture group (103 cases, 6 cases dropped out). In addition to the conventional basic medical treatment and the rehabilitation treatment, in the needle retaining group, electroacupuncture at Shenting (GV 24) and Baihui (GV 20) was applied, with continuous wave of 50 Hz in the first 15 min and with disperse-dense wave of 2 Hz/50 Hz in the last 15 min, the needles were continuously retained for 1 h after electroacupuncture, during which cognitive training was adopted; in the electroacupuncture group, cognitive training was performed after the same electric stimulation exerted for 30 min, without additional needles retaining. The treatment was given once a day, 5 times a week for totally 8 weeks in the two groups. Before and after 8-week treatment, the TCM syndrome score was observed; before and after 4,8-week treatment, the scores of mini-mental state examination (MMSE), Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) and ability of daily living were observed in the two groups. The clinical efficacy of the two groups was evaluated after 8-week treatment., Results: After 8-week treatment, the TCM syndrome scores were increased compared with those before treatment in both groups ( P <0.05); the TCM syndrome score in the needle retaining group was higher than that in the electroacupuncture group ( P <0.05).After 4,8-week treatment, the scores of MMSE, MoCA and ability of daily living were increased compared with those before treatment in both groups ( P <0.05); MMSE, MoCA scores after 4,8-week treatment and ability of daily living score after 8-week treatment in the needle retaining group were higher than those in the electroacupuncture group ( P <0.05). The total effective rate was 90.4% (85/94) in the needle retaining group, which was superior to 82.5% (80/97) in the electroacupuncture group ( P <0.05)., Conclusions: Both needle retaining after electroacupuncture combined with cognitive training and electroacupuncture combined with cognitive training can effectively treat PSCI, improve the clinical symptom, cognitive function and ability of daily living in PSCI patients. Needle retaining after electroacupuncture combined with cognitive training has a better therapeutic effect.

Objectives: To explore the effect mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) on functional constipation (FC) at the combined lower he -sea and front- mu points of large intestine based on enteric neuronal autophagy., Methods: A total of 40 SPF Kunming mice were randomly divided into 5 groups ( n = 8), i.e. a control group, a model group, an acupuncture group, a 3-methyl adenine (3-MA) group, and a 3-MA + acupuncture group. Except the control group, the FC model was established by gavage with compound diphenoxylate suspension for 14 days in the other 4 groups. After successful modeling, the mice of the acupuncture group and the 3-MA + acupuncture group received EA at bilateral "Tianshu" (ST 25) and "Shangjuxu" (ST 37), stimulated for 30 min with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/15 Hz of frequency, 1 mA of intensity. EA was delivered once daily. One course of treatment was composed of 5 days and 2 courses were needed, with an interval of 2 days. An intraperitoneal injection of 3-MA (15 mg/kg) was administered 30 min before EA in the mice of the 3-MA group and the 3-MA + acupuncture group, once daily. Before and after intervention, the time of the first black stool defecation and defecation behaviors in 6 h were observed in each group. After intervention, in every group, the small intestine propulsion rate was calculated, the colon tissue morphology was observed using HE staining, the ultrastructure of enteric neuronal autophagy was observed under transmission electron microscope, and the expressions of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), Beclin-1 and neuronal nuclear antigen protein (NeuN) in neurons of colonic muscularis were determined by immunohistochemistry., Results: Before intervention, when compared with those in the control group, the time of the first black stool defecation was prolonged ( P <0.01, P <0.05), and numbers ( P <0.01), wet weight ( P <0.01, P <0.05) and water content ( P <0.05, P <0.01) of stool in 6 h were reduced in the model, acupuncture, 3-MA and 3-MA + acupuncture groups. After intervention, compared with those in the control group, the time of the first black stool defecation was longer ( P <0.05), and numbers ( P <0.01), wet weight ( P <0.01) and water content ( P <0.01) of stool in 6 h were decreased in the model group. The time of the first black stool defecation was shortened ( P <0.01), and numbers ( P <0.01), wet weight ( P <0.01) and water content ( P <0.01) of stool in 6 h were increased in the acupuncture group when compared with those in the model group. The time of the first black stool defecation was extended ( P <0.01), and numbers ( P <0.01), wet weight ( P <0.01) and water content ( P <0.01) of stool in 6 h were declined in the 3-MA + acupuncture group in comparison with those in the acupuncture group. All layers of colon tissue were normal and intact in each group. When compared with the control group, the small intestine propulsion rate and the average optical density (OD) values of LC3, Beclin-1 and NeuN in neurons of colonic muscularis were decreased ( P <0.01), and autophagosomes were dropped in the model group. In the acupuncture group, the small intestine propulsion rate and the average OD values of NeuN, LC3 and Beclin-1 in neurons of colonic muscularis increased ( P <0.01, P <0.05), and autophagosomes were elevated when compared with those in the model group. The small intestine propulsion rate and the average OD values of NeuN, LC3 and Beclin-1 in neurons of colonic muscularis were dropped ( P <0.05, P <0.01) in the 3-MA + acupuncture group in comparison with those in the acupuncture group., Conclusions: Electroacupuncture may promote enteric neuronal autophagy and increase the number of neurons so that the intestinal motility can be improved and constipation symptoms can be relieved in FC mice.

The academic thoughts of professor GAO Wei-bin regarding the use of electroacupuncture in the treatment of dry eye are introduced. Professor GAO believes that the occurrence of dry eye is mainly related to the stagnation of qi and blood in the eye meridians, leading to inadequate nourishment of the eyes. The acupuncture treatment principle focuses on promoting blood circulation, clearing and benefiting the eye orifices. By integrating traditional acupuncture theory with modern neuroanatomy, the treatment approach centers on stimulating the lacrimal gland, emphasizing the importance of promoting, addressing symptoms as a priority, and considering both the root cause and symptoms.The precise acupoint selection is emphasized. Acupoints of periocular region, such as Taiyang (EX-HN 5) and Leixian point are selected along with Fengchi (GB 20) and Gongxue point to treat dry eye. Attention is also given to the use of electroacupuncture and the selection of its frequencies, emphasizing specific needling techniques based on the severity and classification of the disease.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on threshold of pain, gait, proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cell in rats with acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle, and to explore the possible mechanism of electroacupuncture in promoting the repair of acute injury of skeletal muscle., Methods: A total of 48 SD rats were randomly divided into a blank group (6 rats), a model group (24 rats) and an electroacupuncture group (18 rats). In the model group and the electroacupuncture group, the model of acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle was established by self-made impactor. In the electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture was applied at "Chengshan" (BL 57) and "Yanglingquan" (GB 34) on the right side, with disperse-dense wave, in frequency of 2 Hz/100 Hz, once a day, 30 min each time. Electroacupuncture intervention was performed for 3, 7 and 14 days according to the sampling time. On the 1st, 3rd, 7th and 14th days after modeling, the mechanical withdrawal pain threshold of hindfoot was detected by Von Frey method; the standing time and the maximum contact area of the right hindfoot were recorded by Cat Walk XT TM animal gait analysis instrument; the morphology of the right gastrocnemius muscle and the number of inflammatory cells were observed by HE staining; the positive expression of paired box gene 7 (Pax7) and myogenic differentiation (MyoD) of the right gastrocnemius muscle was detected by immunofluorescence., Results: After modeling, the muscle fiber rupture and massive infiltration of red blood cells and inflammatory cells were observed in the right gastrocnemius muscle; after electroacupuncture intervention, the morphology of muscle fiber was intact and the infiltration of inflammatory cells was improved. Compared with the blank group, in the model group, the differences of mechanical withdrawal pain threshold between the left and right foot were increased ( P <0.05), the standing time was shortened and the maximum contact area of the right hindfoot was decreased ( P <0.05), the number of inflammatory cells and the positive expression of Pax7 and MyoD of the right gastrocnemius muscle were increased ( P <0.05) on the 1st, 3rd, 7th and 14th days after modeling. Compared with the model group, in the electroacupuncture group, the differences of mechanical withdrawal pain threshold were decreased ( P <0.05), the standing time was prolonged ( P <0.05), the number of inflammatory cells of right gastrocnemius muscle was decreased ( P <0.05) on the 7th and 14th days after modeling; the maximum contact area of the right hindfoot was increased ( P <0.05), the positive expression of MyoD of the right gastrocnemius muscle was increased ( P <0.05) on the 3rd, 7th and 14th days after modeling; the positive expression of Pax7 of the right gastrocnemius muscle was increased ( P <0.05) on the 3rd day after modeling., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture can effectively improve the pain threshold and gait in rats with acute blunt trauma of gastrocnemius muscle, and promote the repair of skeletal muscle injury, the mechanism may be related to the up-regulation of Pax7 and MyoD, so as to promoting the proliferation and differentiation of muscle satellite cell.

Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy between electroacupuncture(EA) and moxibustion for neurogenic bladder (NB) after spinal cord injury (SCI)., Methods: One hundred and twenty patients with NB after SCI were randomly divided into an EA group, a moxibustion group, and an intermittent catheterization group, with 40 patients in each group. The patients in the intermittent catheterization group were treated with routine treatment and intermittent catheterization, while the patients in the EA group and the moxibustion group were treated with additional treatments of EA (discontinuous wave, with a frequency of 1.3-1.6 Hz, and intensity based on patient tolerance) and moxibustion, respectively. The acupoints used in both groups were Zhongji (CV 3) and Guanyuan (CV 4), bilateral Zusanli (ST 36), Yinlingquan (SP 9), and Baliao points. Each session lasted for 30 min, once daily, six times a week, for a total of six weeks.The maximum bladder capacity (MBC), residual urine vdume (RUV), detrusor pressure (Pdet) during the filling phase, bladder compliance (BC), maximum renal pelvis separation width of both kidneys, urine white blood cell count, TCM syndrome score, and World Health Organization quality of life assessment-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) score were compared before and after treatment in the 3 groups. The number of patients in each group who achieved bladder functional balance was recorded, and the clinical efficacy was assessed after treatment., Results: After treatment, the MBC, Pdet, BC, and WHOQOL-BREF scores in the EA group and the moxibustion group were increased ( P <0.05), while the RUV, maximum renal pelvis separation width of both kidneys, urine white blood cell count, and TCM syndrome scores were decreased ( P <0.05, P <0.01). In the intermittent catheterization group, MBC, RUV, maximum renal pelvis separation width of both kidneys, and urine white blood cell count were decreased ( P <0.05), while BC and WHOQOL-BREF score were increased ( P <0.05) after treatment. After treatment, the MBC, Pdet, BC, and WHOQOL-BREF scores in the EA group and the moxibustion group were higher than those in the intermittent catheterization group ( P <0.05), while the RUV and TCM syndrome scores were lower than those in the intermittent catheterization group ( P <0.05). Moreover, after treatment, the MBC and Pdet in the moxibustion group were higher than those in the EA group ( P <0.05), while the RUV, maximum renal pelvis separation width of both kidneys, and TCM syndrome score in the EA group were lower than those in the moxibustion group ( P <0.05). The number of patients who achieved bladder functional balance after treatment in the EA group and the moxibustion group was higher than that in the intermittent catheterization group ( P <0.05). The cured and effective rate was 85.0% (34/40) in the EA group and 82.5% (33/40) in the moxibustion group, which were both higher than 65.0% (26/40) in the intermittent catheterization group ( P <0.05), there was no significant difference between the EA group and the moxibustion group ( P >0.05)., Conclusion: EA and moxibustion could effectively improve the functional state of bladder in patients with NB after SCI. EA is more effective in reducing residual urine volume and excessive activity of the urethral sphincter, and relieving TCM syndromes, while moxibustion is more effective in increasing the pressure of the detrusor during the filling period and establishing the detrusor reflex.

Bibliometric and scientific knowledge graph methods were used to analyze the research status and hot spots of acupuncture-moxibustion in treatment of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and explore its development trend. The articles of both Chinese and English versions relevant to MPS treated by acupuncture-moxibustion were searched in CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, SinoMed and WOS from the database inception to March 20, 2023. Using Excel2016, CiteSpace6.2.R2 and VOSviewer1.6.18, the visual analysis was conducted by means of the cooperative network, keyword co-occurrence, keyword timeline, keyword emergence, etc. From Chinese databases and WOS database, 910 Chinese articles and 300 English articles were included, respectively. The annual publication volume showed an overall rising trend. Literature output of English articles was concentrated in Spain, China, and the United States, of which, there was less cross-regional cooperation. In the keyword analysis, regarding acupuncture-moxibustion therapy, Chinese articles focused on "acupuncture", "electroacupuncture" and "acupotomy"; while, "dry needling" and "injection" were dominated for English one. Clinical study was the current hot spot in Chinese databases, in comparison, the randomized controlled double-blind clinical trial was predominant in WOS. Both Chinese and English articles were limited in the report of mechanism research. The cooperation among research teams should be strengthened to conduct comparative research, dose-effect research and effect mechanism research with different methods of acupuncture-moxibustion involved so that the evidences can be provided for deeper exploration.

Objectives: To compare the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) with different time intervals on corticospinal excitability of the primary motor cortex (M1) and the upper limb motor function in healthy subjects and observe the after-effect rule of acupuncture., Methods: Self-comparison before and after intervention design was adopted. Fifteen healthy subjects were included and all of them received three stages of trial observation, namely EA 0 group (received one session of EA), EA 6h group (received two sessions of EA within 1 day, with an interval of 6 h) and EA 48h group (received two sessions of EA within 3 days, with an interval of 48 h). The washout period among stages was 1 week. In each group, the needles were inserted perpendicularly at Hegu (LI 4) on the left side, 23 mm in depth and at a non-acupoint, 0.5 cm nearby to the left side of Hegu (LI 4), separately. Han 's acupoint nerve stimulator (HANS-200A) was attached to these two needles, with continuous wave and the frequency of 2 Hz. The stimulation intensity was exerted higher than the exercise threshold (local muscle twitching was visible, and pain was tolerable by healthy subjects, 1-2 mA ). The needles were retained for 30 min. Using the single pulse mode of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technique, before the first session of EA (T0) and at the moment (T1), in 2 h (T2) and 24 h (T3) after the end of the last session of EA, on the left first dorsal interosseous muscle, the amplitude, latency (LAT), resting motor threshold (rMT) of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and the completion time of grooved pegboard test (GPT) were detected. Besides, in the EA 6h group, TMS was adopted to detect the excitability of M1 (amplitude, LAT and rMT of MEPs) before the last session of EA (T0*)., Results: The amplitude of MEPs at T1 and T2 in the EA 0 group, at T0* in the EA 6h group and at T1, T2 and T3 in the EA 48h group was higher when compared with the value at T0 in each group separately ( P <0.001). At T1, the amplitude of MEPs in the EA 0 group and the EA 48h group was higher than that in the EA 6h group ( P <0.001, P <0.01); at T2, it was higher in the EA 0 group when compared with that in the EA 6h group ( P <0.01); at T3, the amplitude in the EA 0 group and the EA 6h group was lower than that of the EA 48h group ( P <0.001). The LAT at T1 was shorter than that at T0 in the three groups ( P <0.05), and the changes were not obvious at the rest time points compared with that at T0 ( P > 0.05). The GPT completion time of healthy subjects in the EA 0 group and the EA 48h group at T1, T2 and T3 was reduced in comparison with that at T0 ( P <0.001). The completion time at T3 was shorter than that at T0 in the EA 6h group ( P <0.05); at T2, it was reduced in the EA 48h group when compared with that of the EA 6h group ( P <0.05). There were no significant differences in rMT among the three groups and within each group ( P >0.05)., Conclusions: Under physiological conditions, EA has obvious after-effect on corticospinal excitability and upper limb motor function. The short-term interval protocol (6 h) blocks the after-effect of EA to a certain extent, while the long-term interval protocol (48 h) prolongs the after-effect of EA.

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of repeated transcranial acupuncture combined with electroacupuncture on flat descending sudden deafness., Methods: A total of 80 patients with flat descending sudden deafness were randomly divided into an acupuncture and medication group (39 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a western medication group (39 cases, 1 case dropped off). Patients in the western medication group were treated with glucocorticoid + batroxobin + ginkgo leaf preparation. On the basis of the western medication group, patients in the acupuncture and medication group were treated with acupuncture at Baihui (GV 20), Ningshen, Yunting area, Mastoid 1 point, Mastoid 2 point, Fengchi (GB 20), Gongxue, Tinghui (GB 2), etc., repeated transcranial acupuncture was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Ningshen and Yunting area; Mastoid 1 point and Mastoid 2 point, Fengchi (GB 20) and Gongxue of the affected side were connected to the electroacupuncture instrument, continuous wave, 2 Hz in frequency. The needle was retained for 30 min, once a day, and rest for 1 d after 6 d of continuous treatment. All patients were treated for 3 weeks. The average hearing threshold, tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) score, dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) score and speech discrimination test score were compared between the two groups before and after treatment, and the clinical effect was evaluated., Results: After treatment, the average hearing threshold, THI and DHI scores of the two groups were lower than those before treatment ( P <0.05), and above indexes in the acupuncture and medication group were lower than those in the western medication group ( P <0.05). The speech discrimination test scores of the two groups were higher than those before treatment ( P <0.05), and the score in the acupuncture and medication group was higher than that in the western medication group ( P <0.05). The total effective rate was 87.2% (34/39) in the acupuncture and medication group, which was higher than 74.4% (29/39) in the western medication group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: Repeated transcranial acupuncture combined with electroacupuncture can improve the hearing level of patients with flat descending sudden deafness, relieve tinnitus and vertigo symptoms.

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy on hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) after stroke treated with electroacupuncture (EA) under different frequencies., Methods: A total of 105 patients with HSP after stroke were randomly divided into a manual acupuncture group (35 cases, 2 cases dropped off), an EA continuous wave group (35 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and an EA disperse-dense wave group (35 cases). The conventional rehabilitation therapy was delivered in the three groups. Additionally, acupuncture was applied to Jianyu (LI 15), Jianzhen (SI 9), Jianliao (TE 14) and Jianqian (Extra) etc. on the affected side in the manual acupuncture group. In the EA continuous wave group and the EA disperse-dense wave group, besides the treatment as the manual acupuncture group, the electric stimulation was attached to two pairs of acupoints, i.e. Jianyu (LI 15) and Jianliao (TE 14), and Quchi (LI 11) and Shousanli (LI 10), with 15 Hz continuous wave, and 2 Hz/ 100 Hz disperse-dense wave, respectively. The treatment was given once daily, 5 times a week, for 4 weeks consecutively. The score of visual analogue scale (VAS) before treatment and after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, as well as the passive range of motion (PROM) of shoulder forward flexion and PROM of shoulder abduction, muscle strength of the upper limb, the score of modified Barthel index (MBI) and the score of Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) before and after treatment were observed in each group., Results: Compared with before treatment, VAS scores were reduced after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment in each group ( P <0.05); and VAS scores after 4 weeks of treatment were lower than those after 2 weeks of treatment ( P <0.05). After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, VAS score in either the EA continuous wave group or the EA disperse-dense wave group was lower compared with the manual acupuncture group ( P <0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, VAS score in the EA disperse-dense wave was lower than that of the EA continuous wave group ( P <0.05). Compared with before treatment, PROM of the shoulder forward flexion and abduction on the affected side after treatment was enlarged ( P <0.05), the muscle strength of the upper limb was increased ( P <0.05), and the scores of MBI and FMA were increased ( P <0.05) in the patients of each group. After treatment, in the EA continuous wave group and the EA disperse-dense wave group, PROM of the shoulder forward flexion on the affected side was higher ( P <0.05), the muscle strength of the upper limb was stronger ( P <0.05) when compared with the manual acupuncture group; and the scores of MBI and FMA in the EA disperse-dense wave group were higher than those of the manual acupuncture group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture is superior to manual acupuncture in the analgesic effect and comprehensive rehabilitation effect in the patients with HSP after stroke. The therapeutic effect obtained by electroacupuncture with 2 Hz/100 Hz disperse-dense wave is better than that with 15 Hz continuous wave.

Objective: To compare the clinical therapeutic effect between electroacupuncture at "four points of sacral region" and transurethral Erbium laser in treatment of moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy., Methods: A total of 68 patients of moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy were divided into an electroacupuncture group (34 cases) and an Erbium laser group (34 cases, 3 cases dropped off) according to the settings. In the electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture was applied at "four points of sacral region", i.e. points of 0.5 cun beside bilateral sacrococcygeal joints and bilateral Huiyang (BL 35), with continuous wave, 2 Hz in frequency, 60 min each time, once every other day, 3 times a week, 12 times as one course of treatment. In the Erbium laser group, transurethral Erbium laser technology was given, once every 4 weeks as one course of treatment. Both groups were treated for 5 courses. The scores of the International Consultation on Incontinence questionnaire-short form (ICI-Q-SF) and the incontinence quality of life questionnaire (I-QOL) were observed before treatment, after each course of treatment and in follow-up after 1 and 2 months of treatment completion, respectively, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated after treatment in the two groups., Results: Compared with those before treatment, the ICI-Q-SF scores were decreased while the I-QOL scores were increased after 5 courses of treatment and in follow-up after 1, 2 months of treatment completion in the two groups ( P <0.01). The ICI-Q-SF score in follow-up after 2 months of treatment completion were higher than that after 5 courses of treatment in the Erbium laser group ( P <0.05). After 3, 4, 5 courses of treatment and in follow-up after 1 and 2 months of treatment completion, the ICI-Q-SF scores in the electroacupuncture group were lower than those in the Erbium laser group ( P <0.05, P <0.01); after 2, 3, 4, 5 courses of treatment and in follow-up after 1 and 2 months of treatment completion, the I-QOL scores in the electroacupuncture group were higher than those in the Erbium laser group ( P <0.01). The change ranges of ICI-Q-SF score and I-QOL score between before treatment and after each course of treatment in the electroacupuncture group were lager than those in the Erbium laser group ( P <0.01, P <0.05). The total effective rate was 61.8% (21/34) in the electroacupuncture group, which was superior to 19.4 (6/31) in the Erbium laser group ( P <0.01)., Conclusion: Both electroacupuncture at "four points of sacral region" and transurethral Erbium laser can improve the clinical symptoms and the quality of life in patients of moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. The short-term efficacy and long-term efficacy of electroacupuncture are superior to the Erbium laser technology.

Objective: To observe the immediate analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) combined with diclofenac sodium on acute gouty arthritis (AGA)., Methods: A total of 90 patients with AGA were randomly divided into a low-dose medication (LM) group (30 cases, 1 case was eliminated, 1 case dropped off), a conventional medication (CM) group (30 cases, 1 case dropped off) and a combination of acupuncture and medication (AM) group (30 cases ). The LM group was given oral administration of 50 mg diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsule; the CM group was given oral administration of 100 mg diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsule; on the basis of the treatment of LM group, the AM group was treated with electroacupuncture at ashi points, Dadu (SP 2), Taichong (LR 3), Taibai (SP 3), Neiting (ST 44), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Zusanli (ST 36) and Yinlingquan (SP 9) on the affected side, and Taichong (LR 3) and Zusanli (ST 36), Sanyinjiao (SP 6) and Yinlingquan (SP 9) were connected to electroacupuncture respectively, continuous wave, 2 Hz in frequency. The visual analogue scale (VAS) scores of pain before treatment and after 10 min, 2 h, 4 h and 6 h of treatment completion, joint tenderness and swelling scores before treatment and after 10 min and 6 h of treatment completion were compared, and the rate of diclofenac sodium addition within 24 h after treatment completion was recorded among the three groups., Results: After 10 min of treatment completion, the scores of VAS, joint tenderness and joint swelling in the AM group were lower than those before treatment ( P <0.05), and the VAS score in the AM group was lower than that in the other two groups ( P <0.05). After 2, 4 and 6 h of treatment completion, the VAS scores of the three groups were lower than those before treatment ( P <0.05), and the scores in the AM group were lower than those in the LM group ( P <0.05). After 6 h of treatment completion, the joint tenderness scores of the three groups and the joint swelling scores of the AM group and the CM group were lower than those before treatment ( P <0.05), and the joint tenderness and swelling scores of the AM group were lower than those of the LM group ( P <0.05). The rate of diclofenac sodium addition was 3.3 % (1/30) and 3.4 % (1/29) in the AM group and the CM group, respectively, which were lower than 17.9% (5/28) in the LM group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture combined with diclofenac sodium have a good immediate analgesic effect in the treatment of AGA, and have the advantages of small dosage of analgesic drugs and less adverse reactions.

Objective: To observe the effect of Tongdu Tiaoshen (promoting the circulation of the governor vessel and regulating the spirit) electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment on pyroptosis mediated by peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) of the cerebral cortex in rats with cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury (CIRI) and explore the potential mechanism of EA for the prevention and treatment of CIRI., Methods: A total of 110 clean-grade male SD rats were randomly divided into a sham-operation group, a model group, an EA group, an EA + inhibitor group and an agonist group, 22 rats in each group. In the EA group, before modeling, EA was applied to "Baihui" (GV 20), "Fengfu" (GV 16) and "Dazhui" (GV 14), with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/5 Hz in frequency, 1 to 2 mA in intensity, lasting 20 min; once a day, consecutively for 7 days. On the base of the intervention as the EA group, on the day 7, the intraperitoneal injection with the PPARγ inhibitor, GW9662 (10 mg/kg) was delivered in the EA + inhibitor group. In the agonist group, on the day 7, the PPARγ agonist, pioglitazone hydrochloride (10 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally. At the end of intervention, except the sham-operation group, the modified thread embolization method was adopted to establish the right CIRI model in the rats of the other groups. Using the score of the modified neurological severity score (mNSS), the neurological defect condition of rats was evaluated. TTC staining was adopted to detect the relative cerebral infarction volume of rat, TUNEL staining was used to detect apoptosis of cerebral cortical nerve cells and the transmission electron microscope was used to observe pyroptosis of cerebral cortical neural cells. The positive expression of PPARγ and nucleotide-binding to oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) in the cerebral cortex was detected with the immunofluorescence staining. The protein expression of PPARγ, NLRP3, cysteinyl aspartate specific protease-1 (caspase-1), gasdermin D (GSDMD) and GSDMD-N terminal (GSDMD-N) in the cerebral cortex was detected with Western blot. Using the quantitative real-time fluorescence-PCR, the mRNA expression of PPARγ, NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD of the cerebral cortex was detected. The contents of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 in the cerebral cortex of rats were determined by ELISA., Results: Compared with the sham-operation group, the mNSS, the relative cerebral infarction volume and the TUNEL positive cells rate were increased ( P <0.01), pyroptosis was severe, the protein and mRNA expression levels of PPARγ, NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD were elevated ( P <0.01); and the protein expression of GSDMD-N and contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were increased ( P <0.01) in the model group. When compared with the model group, the mNSS, the relative cerebral infarction volume and the TUNEL positive cells rate were decreased ( P <0.01), pyroptosis was alleviated, the protein and mRNA expression levels of PPARγ were increased ( P <0.01), the protein and mRNA expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD were decreased ( P <0.01), the protein expression of GSDMD-N was reduced ( P <0.01); and the contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were lower ( P <0.01) in the EA group and the agonist group; while, in the EA + inhibitor group, the protein expression of PPARγ was increased ( P <0.01), the protein and mRNA expression levels of NLRP3 and GSDMD were decreased ( P <0.01, P <0.05), the mRNA expression of caspase-1 was reduced ( P <0.01); and the contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were lower ( P <0.01). When compared with the EA + inhibitor group, the mNSS, the relative cerebral infarction volume and the TUNEL positive cells rate were decreased ( P <0.05, P <0.01), pyroptosis was alleviated, the protein and mRNA expression levels of PPARγ were increased ( P <0.01), the protein and mRNA expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD were decreased ( P <0.01), the protein expression of GSDMD-N was reduced ( P <0.01); and the contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were declined ( P <0.01) in the EA group. Compared with the agonist group, in the EA group, the relative cerebral infarction volume and the TUNEL positive cells rate were increased ( P <0.05, P <0.01), the mRNA expression of PPARγ was decreased ( P <0.01) and the protein expression of GSDMD-N was elevated ( P <0.05); and the contents of IL-1β and IL-18 were higher ( P <0.01)., Conclusion: Tongdu Tiaoshen EA pretreatment can attenuate the neurological impairment in the rats with CIRI, and the underlying mechanism is related to the up-regulation of PPARγ inducing the inhibition of NLRP3 in the cerebral cortex of rats so that pyroptosis is affected.

Objective: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on liver protein kinase B (Akt)/forkhead box transcription factor 1 (FoxO1) signaling pathway in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, and to explore the possible mechanism of EA on improving liver insulin resistance of type 2 diabetes mellitus., Methods: Twelve male 2-month-old ZDF rats were fed with high-fat diet for 4 weeks to establish diabetes model. After modeling, the rats were randomly divided into a model group and an EA group, with 6 rats in each group. In addition, six male Zucker lean (ZL) rats were used as the blank group. The rats in the EA group were treated with EA at bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36), "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6), "Weiwanxiashu" (EX-B 3), and "Pishu" (BL 20). The ipsilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36) and "Weiwanxiashu" (EX-B 3) were connected to EA device, continuous wave, frequency of 15 Hz, 20 min each time, once a day, six times a week, for a total of 4 weeks. The fasting blood glucose (FBG) in each group was compared before modeling, before intervention and after intervention; the serum levels of insulin (INS) and C-peptide were measured by radioimmunoassay method, and the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated; HE staining method was used to observe the liver tissue morphology; Western blot method was used to detect the protein expression of Akt, FoxO1 and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) in the liver., Results: Before intervention, compared with the blank group, FBG was increased in the model group and the EA group ( P <0.01); after intervention, compared with the model group, FBG in the EA group was decreased ( P <0.01). Compared with the blank group, the serum levels of INS and C-peptide, HOMA-IR, and the protein expression of hepatic FoxO1 and PEPCK were increased ( P <0.01), while the protein expression of hepatic Akt was decreased ( P <0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group, the serum levels of INS and C-peptide, HOMA-IR, and the protein expression of hepatic FoxO1 and PEPCK were decreased ( P <0.01), while the protein expression of hepatic Akt was increased ( P <0.01) in the EA group. In the model group, the hepatocytes were structurally disordered and randomly arranged, with a large number of lipid vacuoles in the cytoplasm. In the EA group, the morphology of hepatocytes tended to be normal and lipid vacuoles were decreased., Conclusion: EA could reduce FBG and HOMA-IR in ZDF rats, improve liver insulin resistance, which may be related to regulating Akt/FoxO1 signaling pathway.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment on cardiac function, sympathetic nerve activity, indexes of myocardial injury and GABA A receptor in fastigial nucleus in rats with myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI), and to explore the neuroregulatory mechanism of EA pretreatment in improving MIRI., Methods: A total of 60 male SD rats were randomly divided into a sham operation group, a model group, an EA group, an agonist group and an agonist+EA group, 12 rats in each group. The MIRI model was established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. EA was applied at bilateral "Shenmen" (HT 7) and "Tongli" (HT 5) in the EA group and the agonist+EA group, with continuous wave, in frequency of 2 Hz and intensity of 1 mA, 30 min each time, once a day for 7 consecutive days. After intervention, the MIRI model was established. In the agonist group, the muscone (agonist of GABA A receptor, 1 g/L) was injected in fastigial nucleus for 7 consecutive days before modeling, 150 μL each time, once a day. In the agonist+EA group, the muscone was injected in fastigial nucleus 30 min before EA intervention. The data of electrocardiogram was collected by PowerLab standard Ⅱ lead, and ST segment displacement and heart rate variability (HRV) were analyzed; the serum levels of norepinephrine (NE), creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) were detected by ELISA; the myocardial infarction area was measured by TTC staining; the morphology of myocardial tissue was observed by HE staining; the positive expression and mRNA expression of GABA A receptor in fastigial nucleus were detected by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR., Results: Compared with the sham operation group, in the model group, ST segment displacement and ratio of low frequency to high frequency (LF/HF) of HRV were increased ( P <0.01), HRV frequency domain analysis showed enhanced sympathetic nerve excitability, the serum levels of NE, CK-MB and cTnI were increased ( P <0.01), the percentage of myocardial infarction area was increased ( P <0.01), myocardial fiber was broken and interstitial edema was serious, the positive expression and mRNA expression of GABA A receptor in fastigial nucleus were increased ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, in the EA group, ST segment displacement and LF/HF ratio were decreased ( P <0.01), HRV frequency domain analysis showed reduced sympathetic nerve excitability, the serum levels of NE, CK-MB and cTnI were decreased ( P <0.01), the percentage of myocardial infarction area was decreased ( P <0.01), myocardial fiber breakage and interstitial edema were lightened, the positive expression and mRNA expression of GABA A receptor in fastigial nucleus were decreased ( P <0.01). Compared with the EA group, in the agonist group and the agonist+EA group, ST segment displacement and LF/HF ratio were increased ( P <0.01), HRV frequency domain analysis showed enhanced sympathetic nerve excitability, the serum levels of NE, CK-MB and cTnI were increased ( P <0.01), the percentage of myocardial infarction area was increased ( P <0.01), myocardial fiber breakage and interstitial edema were aggravated, the positive expression and mRNA expression of GABA A receptor in fastigial nucleus were increased ( P <0.01)., Conclusion: EA pretreatment can improve the myocardial injury in MIRI rats, and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of GABA A receptor expression in fastigial nucleus, thereby down-regulating the excitability of sympathetic nerve.

Objective: To investigate the neuroprotective effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Quchi" (LI 11) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) in the rats with cerebral ischemic reperfusion and the potential mechanism of microglia pyroptosis., Methods: Sixty SD rats were randomly divided into a sham-operation group, a model group and an EA group, with 20 rats in each group. The Zea Longa method was employed to establish the rat model of the middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (MACO/R) in the left brain. In the EA group, since the 2nd day of modeling, EA was given at "Quchi" (LI 11) and "Zusanli" (ST 36) of right side with disperse-dense wave, 4 Hz/20 Hz in frequency and 0.2 mA in current intensity, 30 min each time, once a day for lasting 7 consecutive days. The reduction rate of cerebral blood flow was measured with laser Doppler flowmetry during operation. The neurological function of rats was observed using Zea Longa neurobehavioral score. The cerebral infarction volume was detected by TTC staining method. The microglia positive expression in the ischemic side of the cortex was detected with the immunofluorescence method. Under transmission electron microscope, the ultrastructure of cell in the ischemic cortex was observed. The mRNA expression levels of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1 (Caspase-1) and gasdermin D (GSDMD) in the ischemic cortex were detected using real-time PCR., Results: Compared with the sham-operation group, in the model group, the reduction rate of cerebral blood flow was increased during operation ( P <0.001); Zea Longa neurobehavional score and the percentage of cerebral infarction volume were increased ( P <0.001), the numbers of M1-type microglia marked by CD68 + and M2-type microglia marked by TMEM119 + were elevated in the ischemic cortex ( P <0.001), the mRNA expression of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 and GSDMD was increased ( P <0.001, P <0.01); the cytomembrane structure was destroyed, with more cell membrane pores formed in the ischemic cortex. Compared with the model group, after intervention, Zea Longa neurobehavioral score and the percentage of cerebral infarction volume were reduced ( P <0.05), the number of M1-type microglia marked by CD68 + was reduced ( P <0.05) and the number of M2-type microglia marked by TMEM119 + was increased ( P <0.05); and the mRNA expression of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 and GSDMD was decreased ( P <0.01, P <0.05) in the EA group. Even though the cytomembrane structure was incomplete, there were less membrane pores presented in the ischemic cortex in the EA group after intervention., Conclusion: The intervention with EA attenuates the neurological dysfunction and reduces the volume of cerebral infarction in the rats with cerebral ischemic reperfusion. The underlying mechanism is related to the inhibition of microglia pyroptosis through modulating NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD axis.

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture (EA) for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) complicated with gastrointestinal dysfunction., Methods: A total of 100 patients with AECOPD complicated with gastrointestinal dysfunction were randomly divided into an EA group (50 cases, 2 cases dropped off, 1 case excluded) and a medication group (50 cases). Both groups were treated with symptomatic and supportive treatment such as low flow oxygen, nebulized inhalation of short-acting β2 agonist (SABA) or short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) combined with inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). The EA group was treated with EA at Zusanli (ST 36), Yinlingquan (SP 9), Zhongwan (CV 12), Shuifen (CV 9), Tianshu (ST 25), Chize (LU 5) and Lieque (LU 7), with discontinuous wave, 2 Hz in frequency, 30 min each time, once a day. In the medication group, oral mosapride citrate tablets were given, 3 times a day, 5 mg each time. Both groups were treated for 5 d. Before and after treatment, the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS) score was observe, serum procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), and plasma oxygenation index (PaO 2 /FiO 2 ) were detected, and patient satisfaction degree was evaluated in the two groups., Results: Compared with before treatment, except for diarrhea dimension in the medication group, the total scores and each dimension scores of GSRS were decreased ( P <0.05), serum PCT and CRP were decreased ( P <0.05), plasma PaO 2 /FiO 2 was increased ( P <0.05) in the two groups after treatment. After treatment, in the EA group, the total score and abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation and diarrhea scores of GSRS were lower than those in the medication group ( P <0.05), meanwhile serum PCT and CRP were lower and plasma PaO 2 /FiO 2 was higher than those in the medication group ( P <0.05). The improvement of gastrointestinal symptoms, life quality and overall satisfaction degree in the EA group were superior to those in the medication group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: EA could improve the symptoms of patients with AECOPD complicated with gastrointestinal dysfunction, reduce inflammatory response, improve oxygenation and patient satisfaction degree.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture at " Siguan " points on behavior, colonic 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in rats with post-stroke depression (PSD), and explore the effect mechanism of electroacupuncture at Siguan points on PSD., Methods: Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into a sham-operation group, a stroke group, a PSD group, a drug group and an electroacupuncture group, with 10 rats in each one. The stroke model was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method in the stroke group; except for the sham-operation group, the rats in the other groups were intervened with MCAO combined with solitary and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) to establish PSD model. In the electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture was delivered at "Hegu" (LI 4) and "Taichong" (LR 3), with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/10 Hz in frequency, for 30 min in each intervention, once daily, for consecutive 21 days. Simultaneously, distilled water (0.01 L•kg -1 •d -1 ) was administrated intragastrically. Fluoxetine solution (2.33 mg•kg -1 •d -1 ) was given by gavage , once a day and for 21 days in the drug group. The same procedure of fixation and gavage with distilled water were adopted in the sham-operation group, the stroke group and the PSD group. Separately, before stroke modeling, after PSD modeling and after 21-day intervention, the consumption of sugar water and the scores of horizontal movement and vertical movement in open-field test were observed. After 21-day intervention, the content of colonic 5-HT was detected by immunohistochemical method, and that of fecal SCFAs was determined by gas chromatography mass spectrometry., Results: After PSD modeling, compared with the stroke group, the sugar water consumption, the horizontal movement scores and vertical movement scores of the open-field test were all reduced in the PSD group, the drug group and the electroacupuncture group ( P <0.05). After 21-day intervention, the sugar water consumption and the scores of horizontal movement and vertical movement of the open-field test were increased in the drug group and the electroacupuncture group ( P <0.05) when compared with the PSD group; and the horizontal movement score in the electroacupuncture group was lower than that of the drug group ( P <0.05). Compared with the sham-operation group, the contents of total fecal SCFAs and acetic acid were lower in the stroke group ( P <0.05), and the contents of colonic 5-HT and total fecal SCFAs, acetic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid were reduced in the PSD group ( P <0.05). In comparison with the PSD group, the contents of colonic 5-HT and total fecal SCFAs, acetic acid and propionic acid were increased in the drug group and the electroacupuncture group ( P <0.05); and the content of colonic 5-HT in the electroacupuncture group was lower than that of the drug group ( P <0.05). The level of colonic 5-HT was positively correlated with the contents of total fecal SCFAs and propionic acid ( r =0.424, P =0.005; r =0.427, P =0.004)., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture at " Siguan " points can relieve the depression-like behavior of PSD rats, and its underlying mechanism may be related to the regulation of fecal SCFAs, which affects the release of colonic 5-HT.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on cardiac function and local field potential (LFP) in sensory and motor cortices in mice with stress cardiomyopathy (SC), and to explore the possible mechanism of EA in improving SC., Methods: Twenty-seven female C57BL/6 mice were randomized into a blank group, a model group and an EA group, 9 mice in each group. In the model group and the EA group, SC model was established by continuous intraperitoneal injection of isoproterenol (ISO) for 14 days. At the same time of modeling, EA was applied at "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Shenmen" (HT 7) in the EA group, with disperse-dense wave, in frequency of 2 Hz/15 Hz, 15 min each time, once a day for 14 days. After intervention, the total movement distance, the number of crossing grid and the number of crossing central grid of open field test within 5 minutes were observed; the left ventricular function indexes (left ventricular diameter of end-diastole [LVIDd], left ventricular diameter of end-systole [LVIDs], left ventricular volume of end-diastole [LVEDV], left ventricular volume of end-systole [LVESV], ejection fraction [EF] and fraction shortening [FS]) were detected by echocardiography; the changes in ST-segment amplitude and PR interval of electrocardiogram were observed; the morphology of myocardial tissue was observed by HE staining; the serum levels of cortisol (CORT), cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were detected by ELISA; the changes of LFP in sensory and motor cortices were recorded by Plexon multi-channel acquisition system., Results: Compared with the blank group, in the model group, the total movement distance, the number of crossing grid and the number of crossing central grid of open field test were decreased ( P <0.05); LVIDd, LVIDs, LVEDV and LVESV were increased ( P <0.05), EF and FS were decreased ( P <0.05); ST-segment amplitude was increased ( P <0.05) and PR interval was prolonged ( P <0.05); irregular myocardial fiber arrangement, interstitial edema and inflammatory cell infiltration were observed; the serum levels of CORT, cTnT and BNP were increased ( P <0.05); in the sensory cortex, the ratios of delta, theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were increased ( P <0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of theta and beta frequency bands was increased ( P <0.05), the power spectral density (PSD) of delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands was increased ( P <0.05); in the motor cortex, the ratios of delta, theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were increased ( P <0.05), the maximum energy spectrum as well as PSD of delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands were increased ( P <0.05). Compared with model group, in the EA group, the total movement distance, the number of crossing grid and the number of crossing central grid of open field test were increased ( P <0.05); LVIDd, LVIDs, LVEDV and LVESV were decreased ( P <0.05), EF and FS were increased ( P <0.05); ST-segment amplitude was decreased ( P <0.05), and the PR interval was shortened ( P <0.05); myocardial fiber injury and inflammatory cell infiltration were reduced; the serum levels of CORT, cTnT and BNP were decreased ( P <0.05); in the sensory cortex, the ratios of theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were decreased ( P <0.05), the ratio of gamma frequency band was increased ( P <0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of theta frequency band as well as the PSD of theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands were decreased ( P <0.05); in the motor cortex, the ratios of theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were decreased ( P <0.05) and the ratio of gamma frequency band was increased ( P <0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of delta frequency band was increased ( P <0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of theta frequency band as well as the PSD of theta and gamma frequency bands were decreased ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: EA can improve cardiac function in mice with stress cardiomyopathy, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of local field potentials in sensory and motor cortices.

Objective: To observe the effect of preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative electroacupuncture (EA) intervention on postoperative urination function in patients with mixed hemorrhoid surgery., Methods: A total of 240 patients with mixed hemorrhoid surgery under lumbar anesthesia were randomly divided into an EA preconditioning group (group A, 60 cases, 9 cases dropped off), an intraoperative EA group (group B, 60 cases, 4 cases dropped off), a postoperative EA group (group C, 60 cases, 6 cases dropped off), and a non-acupuncture group (group D, 60 cases, 3 cases dropped off). In the groups A, B and C, EA was exerted at Zhongliao (BL 33) and Huiyang (BL 35) , with disperse-dense wave, 4 Hz/20 Hz in frequency, and lasting 30 min, at 30 min before lumbar anesthesia, immediately after lumbar anesthesia and 6 h after surgery, respectively. No EA intervention was performed in the group D. The postoperative urination smoothness score in each group was observed 24 h after surgery. The first urination time, first urination volume, urine residual volume after first urination were recorded, and incidence of indwelling catheterization, postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, number of remedial analgesia, and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting were observed in each group., Results: In the groups A, B and C, the postoperative urination smoothness scores were superior to the group D ( P <0.05), and the time of first urination was earlier than the group D ( P <0.05). In the group C, the time of first urination was earlier than the group A and the group B ( P <0.05), the first urination volume was higher than the group D ( P <0.05), and the urine residual volume after first urination was lower than the group D ( P <0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of indwelling catheterization and postoperative nausea and vomiting among the 4 groups ( P >0.05). The VAS scores of the group A, B and C were lower than that in the group D ( P <0.05), and the number of remedial analgesia cases was lower than that in the group D ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: EA intervention could promote the recovery of urination function and relieve postoperative pain in patients with mixed hemorrhoids surgery. Early postoperative EA intervention is more conducive to the recovery of urination function.

Objective: To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on NLRP3 inflammasome and its downstream protein gastermin D (GSDMD) in rats with primary dysmenorrhea (PDM), and to explore the potential mechanism of EA on the treatment of PDM., Methods: Forty healthy female SD rats without pregnancy were randomly divided into a control group, a model group, an EA group and an ibuprofen group, 10 rats in each group. PDM model was prepared by injection of estradiol benzoate and oxytocin. Except the control group, the rats in each group were subcutaneously injected with estradiol benzoate for 10 days, and oxytocin was injected on the 11th day. The rats in the EA group were intervened with EA (dense wave, frequency of 50 Hz) at "Guanyuan" (CV 4) and "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) at the same time of modeling, once a day, 20 min each time, for 10 consecutive days. The rats in the ibuprofen group were treated with 0.8 mL of ibuprofen by gavage (concentration of ibuprofen solution was 1.25 mg/mL) for 10 consecutive days. After modeling, the writhing reaction was observed. After intervention, the HE staining method was used to observe the histological morphology of uterus and evaluate the pathological damage score of uterus; ELISA method was used to detect the serum levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α); Western blot method was used to detect the protein expression of NLRP3, apoptosis related spot like protein (ASC), caspase-1, GSDMD, GSDMD-N and inflammatory factors (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-18) in uterine tissue., Results: In the model group, a large number of vacuolar degeneration and death of endometrial epithelial cells, spiral arterioles congestion in lamina propria and neutrophil infiltration were observed. In the EA group, there was a small amount of vacuolar degeneration and death of endometrial epithelial cells, a small amount of spiral arterioles congestion in the lamina propria, and a small amount of neutrophils infiltration. In the ibuprofen group, there was very small number of degeneration and death of endometrial epithelial cells, and no obvious arterial congestion was found in lamina propria, and neutrophil infiltration was occasionally seen. Compared with the control group, in the model group the number of writhing was increased ( P <0.01), the writhing reaction score and serum level of PGF2α and PGF2α/PGE2 value were increased ( P <0.01), the level of PGE2 was decreased ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, in the EA group and the ibuprofen group the number of writhing were decreased ( P <0.05), the latency of writhing was prolonged ( P <0.01), the writhing reaction scores and serum levels of PGF2α and PGF2α/PGE2 values were decreased ( P <0.05, P <0.01), the levels of PGE2 were increased ( P <0.01). Compared with the control group, the protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, IL-1β and IL-18 in the uterine tissues of rats was increased in the model group ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, the protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, IL-1β and IL-18 in the uterine tissues of rats was decreased in the EA group and the ibuprofen group ( P <0.01, P <0.05). There was no significant difference between the EA group and the ibuprofen group in the above indexes ( P >0.05)., Conclusion: EA could alleviate pain and uterine tissue injury in rats with PDM. The mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in rat uterine tissues, thereby inhibiting pyroptosis and its inflammatory factors release.

Electroacupuncture may play a role in treatment of learning and memory impairment after ischemic stroke by regulating phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway, nerve growth factor (NGF)/tyrosine kinase-A (TrkA) signaling pathway, Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway, Notch signaling pathway, erythropoietin-producing hepatocyte (Eph)/ephrin signaling pathway. The interactions among these pathways should be further explored in treatment of learning and memory impairment after ischemic stroke.

The paper introduces GAO Wei-bin 's clinical experience in acupuncture treatment for neurogenic bladder. In association with the etiology, the location and types of neurogenic bladder and in accordance with nerve anatomy and meridian differentiation, the acupoints are selected accurately in treatment. Four acupoint prescriptions are allocated. For frequent urination and urinary incontinence, the foot-motor-sensory area of scalp acupuncture, Shenshu (BL 23) and Huiyang (BL 35) are used. For all kinds of urine retention, especially the patients who are not suitable for acupuncture at the lumbar region, Zhongji (CV 3), Qugu (CV 2), Henggu (KI 11) and Dahe (KI 12) are selected. For all kinds of urine retention, Zhongliao (BL 33) and Ciliao (BL 32) are applicable. For the patients with both dysuria and urinary incontinence, Zhongliao (BL 33), Ciliao (BL 32) and Huiyang (BL 35) are chosen. In treatment of neurogenic bladder, both biao (root causes) and ben (primary symptoms) are considered, as well as the accompanying symptoms; and electroacupuncture is combined accordingly. During the delivery of acupuncture, the sites where the acupoints located are detected and palpated so as to rationally control the depth of needle insertion and the operation of reinforcing and reducing needling techniques.

Objective: To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture at Baliao points in patients with erectile dysfunction after stroke., Methods: A total of 58 patients with erectile dysfunction after stroke were randomly divided into an observation group (29 cases, 1 case dropped off, 1 case discontinued) and a control group (29 cases, 1 case dropped off). Both groups were given basic treatment, including routine medical treatment, routine acupuncture treatment, rehabilitation training and pelvic floor biofeedback electrical stimulation treatment. The observation group was treated with electroacupuncture at Baliao points, and the control group was treated with shallow acupuncture combined with electroacupuncture at the control points (8 points at 20 mm horizontally beside Baliao points), continuous wave, frequency in 50 Hz, current intensity in 1-5 mA, 5 times a week for 4 weeks. The 5-item version of the international index of erectile function (IIEF-5) score, erectile dysfunction effect on quality of life (ED-EQoL) score and pelvic floor muscle contraction amplitude were compared between the two groups before and after treatment., Results: After treatment, the IIEF-5 scores and the contraction amplitude of fast muscle fiber, comprehensive muscle fiber and slow muscle fiber in the two groups were higher than those before treatment ( P <0.05), the ED-EQoL scores were lower than those before treatment ( P <0.05), and the changes of above indexes in the observation group were larger than the control group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: Electroacupuncture at Baliao points can improve the erectile function of patients with erectile dysfunction after stroke, increase the contraction amplitude of pelvic floor muscles, and promote the quality of life of patients.

Objective: To observe the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) combined with electroacupuncture (EA) on rehabilitation after abdominal surgery., Methods: A total of 320 patients undergoing abdominal surgery were randomly divided into a combination group (80 cases), a TEAS group (80 cases, 1 case discontinued), an EA group (80 cases, 1 case discontinued) and a control group (80 cases, 1 case discontinued). The patients in the control group received enhance recovery after surgery (ERAS) standardized perioperative management. On the basis of the treatment in the control group, the TEAS group was treated with TEAS at Liangmen (ST 21) and Daheng (SP 15); the EA group was treated with EA at Neiguan (PC 6), Hegu (LI 4), Zusanli (ST 36), Shangjuxu (ST 37) and Xiajuxu (ST 39); the combination group was treated with TEAS combined with EA, with continuous wave, 2-5 Hz in frequency, and the intensity was tolerable to the patients, 30 min each time, once a day, from the first day after surgery, until the anus resumed spontaneous defecation and the oral intake of solid food was tolerated. The gastrointestinal-2 (GI-2) time, first exhaust time, first defecation time, first tolerance of oral intake of solid food time, time of first get out of bed and hospital stay were observed in all the groups; the pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score and incidence rates of nausea and vomiting 1, 2, 3 days after surgery were compared in all the groups; after treatment, the acceptability of each treatment was evaluated by patients in each group., Results: Compared with the control group, the GI-2 time, first exhaust time, first defecation time, first tolerance of oral intake of solid food time were shortened ( P <0.05), the VAS scores 2, 3 days after surgery were decreased ( P <0.05) in the combination group, the TEAS group and the EA group; those in the combination group were shorter and lower than the TEAS group and the EA group ( P <0.05). Compared with the control group, the time of hospital stay in the combination group, the TEAS group and the EA group were shortened ( P <0.05), and that in the combination group was shorter than the TEAS group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: TEAS combined with EA can accelerate the recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients after abdominal surgery, relieve postoperative pain, and shorten hospital stay.

Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy between Tiaoshen Jieyu acupuncture (acupuncture for regulating mind and relieving depression) combined with sertraline hydrochloride tablet and simple sertraline hydrochloride tablet for post-stroke depression (PSD)., Methods: A total of 76 patients with PSD were randomized into an observation group (38 cases, 6 cases dropped off) and a control group (38 cases, 4 cases dropped off). Both groups were treated with conventional treatment i.e. controlling blood pressure and anti-inflammation. Sertraline hydrochloride tablet was given orally in the control group, 20 mg a time, once a day. On the basis of the treatment in the control group, Tiaoshen Jieyu acupuncture was applied at Baihui (GV 20), Yintang (GV 24 + ), Neiguan (PC 6), Taichong (LR 3), etc. in the observation group, Baihui (GV 20) and Yintang (GV 24 + ) were connected to electroacupuncture, with disperse-dense wave, 2 Hz/100 Hz in frequency, 30 min a time, once a day, 6 times a week. Treatment of 8 weeks was required in both groups. Before and after treatment, the scores of Hamilton depression scale (HAMD), National Institutes of Health stroke scale (NIHSS), Barthel index (BI) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) were observed respectively, the therapeutic efficacy and rate of adverse reactions were evaluated in the two groups., Results: After treatment, the scores of HAMD, NIHSS and PSQI were lower while BI scores were higher than those before treatment in both groups ( P <0.05); the scores of HAMD, NIHSS and PSQI in the observation group were lower while BI score was higher than those in the control group ( P <0.05). The total effective rate was 93.8% (30/32) in the observation group, which was higher than 70.6% (24/34) in the control group ( P <0.05). The rate of adverse reactions was 9.4% (3/32) in the observation group, which was lower than 32.4% (11/34) in the control group ( P <0.05)., Conclusion: Tiaoshen Jieyu acupuncture combined with sertraline hydrochloride tablet can improve the depression degree, neurological function, activity of daily living and sleep quality in patients with post-stroke depression, the clinical efficacy is superior to simple sertraline hydrochloride, and can alleviate the adverse reactions caused by medication.