Guest guest Posted July 23, 2003 Report Share Posted July 23, 2003 Hi All, See these abstracts from CAB. Phil >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> A comparison of the effect of electrical acupuncturing of AP points or muscle on blood indexes of sheep. Shi FuSheng; Li HongJun; Shi Jun College of Agricultural and Animal Sciences, Qinghai University, Xining 810003, Qinghai, China. Chinese Journal of Veterinary Medicine , Volume: 27 , Number: 2 , Page: 28-29 , 2001 Five sheep were electrical-needled at Suqi and Baihui AP points (A group) and another 5 sheep at muscle (M group) beside the two AP points. Blood samples were taken before 15 min and 30 min after acupuncturing. Tests showed that erythrocyte and total white cell count increased significantly 30 min after acupuncturing in the A group and no significant increase in RBC and total white cell count was noted in the M group. The monocyte percentage increased and lymphocyte percentage decreased in the A group after electrical acupuncturing of the AP points; the lymphocyte percentage increased and the acidophil percentage decreased in the M group after electrical acupuncturing at muscles. Blood sedimentation was speeded up in both A group and M group. Electrical acupuncturing at Suqi and Baihui AP points caused reduction of erythrocyte packed volume, while that at muscles had no influence on erythrocyte packed volume. (9 ref.) A general introduction to cattle AP. Kothbauer, O. A-4710 Grieskirchen, Austria. Cattle Practice , Volume: 10 , Number: 2 , Page: 81-88 , 2002 The use of AP in cattle is discussed. It includes the following topics: the use of AP in veterinary medicine; diagnosis and therapy using AP points; diagnosis and treatment of major organ system diseases (respiratory, cardiac and circulatory, digestive tract, liver, kidney, mammary gland, and reproductive diseases); and ear AP. (5 ref.) A hospital-based study on the use of alternative medicine in patients with chronic liver and gastrointestinal diseases. Yang, Z. C.; Yang SienHung; Yang SienSing; Chen DingShinn Culver Academies, Culver, Indiana, USA. American Journal of Chinese Medicine , Volume: 30 , Number: 4 , Page: 637-643 , 2002 To determine the extent to which Taiwanese patients use alternative medicine, we interviewed 500 consecutive patients with chronic liver and gastrointestinal disorders at an outpatient-service. Forty- two patients were excluded due to incomplete data. The percentages of patients with chronic liver (102/269, 37.9%) and gastrointestinal (74/189, 39.2%) diseases using alternative medicine were not significantly different (p=0.70). Patients who used alternative medicine were not statistically different in gender (p=0.37), age (p=0.59), education level (p=0.83), family income (p=0.90), or occupation (p=0.72). Only 36% (64/176) of patients informed their doctors of their use of alternative medicine. The kinds of alternative medicine used by the 176 patients included: Chinese/herbal medicine, 169 (96%); AP, 31 (18%); nutritional supplements, 22 (13%); chiropractic, 17 (10%); scratching, 14 (8%); Qigong, 13 (7%); cupping, 13 (7%); and incense ash, 3 (2%). Sixty-six percent (111/169) of patients used Chinese/herbal medicine in addition to Western allopathic medicine. Only 11% (19/169) believed that Chinese/herbal medicine had side effects. Our study indicates the use of alternative medicine occurs across all demographic groups in one-third of patients with chronic liver and gastrointestinal diseases at a major general hospital in Taipei. We suggest that the doctors question all patients for history of alternative therapy use. (14 ref.) Advising patients who seek complementary and alternative medical therapies for cancer. Weiger, W. A.; Smith, M.; Boon, H.; Richardson, M. A.; Kaptchuk, T. J.; Eisenberg, D. M. Osher Institute, Division for Research and Education in Complementary and Integrative Medical Therapies, Harvard Medical School, The Landmark Center, 2nd Floor West, Suite 22A, 401 Park Drive, Boston, MA 02215, USA. Annals of Internal Medicine , Volume: 137 , Number: 11 , Page: 889-903 , 2002 Many patients with cancer use complementary and alternative medical (CAM) therapies. Physicians need authoritative information on CAM therapies to responsibly advise patients who seek these interventions. This article summarizes current evidence on the efficacy and safety of selected CAM therapies that are commonly used by patients with cancer. The following major categories of interventions are covered: dietary modification and supplementation, herbal products and other biological agents, AP, massage, exercise and psychological and mind-body therapies. Two categories of evidence on efficacy are considered: possible effects on disease progression and survival and possible palliative effects. In evaluating evidence on safety, two types of risk are considered: the risk for direct adverse effects and the risk for interactions with conventional treatments. For each therapy, the current balance of evidence on efficacy and safety points to whether the therapy may be reasonably recommended, accepted (for example, dietary fat reduction in well-nourished patients with breast or prostate cancer), or discouraged (for example, high-dose vitamin A supplementation). This strategy allows the development of an approach for providing responsible, evidence-based, patient- centred advice to persons with cancer who seek CAM therapies. (204 ref.) Alternative therapy methods in cattle. (Seminar at the 2002 World Buiatric Conference in Hannover, Germany). Weltrinder-Kongress 2002 in Hannover: Alternative Therapiemethoden beim Rind. Biologische Tiermedizin , Volume: 20 , Number: 1 , Page: 21-22 , 2003 This brief report covers the following topics: homeopathy: directly helpful in herd care; studies on homeopathy: animals healthy and economic; AP enables reduction of conventional drug therapy; phytotherapy: availability of plant extract products improves even more; Swiss antibiotic-free pilot experiment on udder health; influence of electromagnetic field treatment on cows. AP as the standard therapy for discopathy with ataxia of the hind legs. Akupunktur als " Standardtherapie " bei Diskopathien mit Ataxien der Hintergliedmassen. Graw, U. Ahornstr. 18, 35088 Battenberg, Germany. Ganzheitliche Tiermedizin , Volume: 17 , Number: 1 , Page: 9-13 , 2003 A 3-point-AP-therapy is reported for cases of intervertebral disc-degeneration of old-aged dogs. The points SI 3, GB 41 and GV 1-01 (tip of tail) are needled. This " standard " therapy will help many geriatric patients to walk again. An attempt is made to explain the effect of the 3 points, followed by an outlook on a supporting therapy with homoeopathic remedies or traditional Chinese drug recipes. Two cases are presented. (6 ref.) AP for birds: a case study. Akupunktur bei Vogeln-Fallbeispiele. Guray, J. V. Hochstr. 44, 47546 Neuloisendorf-Kalkar, Germany. Ganzheitliche Tiermedizin , Volume: 17 , Number: 1 , Page: 6-8 , 2003 A chicken with traumatic injury and a pigeon with diarrhoea were treated with AP. The method and the results are discussed in this article. (1 ref.) AP for the treatment of obesity: a review of the evidence. Lacey, J. M.; Tershakovec, A. M.; Foster, G. D. 319 Sturzebecker Health Sciences Center, West Chester University, West Chester, PA 19383, USA. International Journal of Obesity , Volume: 27 , Number: 4 , Page: 419-427 , 2003 Although AP is being utilized to treat a variety of important health problems, its usefulness in obesity management has not yet been fully evaluated. The aim of this review paper was to survey and critically evaluate the descriptive and controlled trials of AP for enhancing weight loss. The underlying principles of acupoint stimulation are described, with an emphasis on auricular (ear) AP, the method most often chosen for obesity studies. The difficulties of selecting suitable placebo controls are highlighted. To date, most trials have been descriptive in nature, of short duration (less than or equal to 12 weeks), and designed using nonstandard treatment protocols. Despite the unique challenges involved, further careful study of AP's potential usefulness as an adjunct in weight management is recommended. An agenda for future research in this area is provided. (81 ref.) Aquapuncture therapy of repeat breeding in dairy cattle. Lin, J. H.; Wu, L. S.; Wu, Y. L.; Lin, C. S.; Yang, N. Y. J. Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 106, Taiwan. American Journal of , Volume: 30 , Number: 2/3 , Page: 397-404 , 2002 Repeat breeders cause great economic loss in dairy herds. This study determined the efficacy of simple aquapuncture therapy (AP combined with injection) to treat repeat breeders in two dairy herds (one in Hsinchu County and the other in Tainan County, Taiwan). Both herds had used gonadotropin- releasing hormone (GnRH) beforehand to treat the symptom but the success rate was poor (about 30%). Therefore, cows that failed to respond to GnRH were given the aquapuncture treatment. A total of 18 animals (two heifers and 16 cows) that had failed to conceive to 3-9 services were treated by aquapuncture, in which 10 ml and 5 ml of 50% glucose solution were injected at Baihui (Hundred Meetings, the depression in the centre of the lumbosacral space) and Shenpeng (Kidney Shelf, the depression in the space between the lumbar vertebral transverse processes 5-6) acupoints, respectively with a 21G, 1.5-inch hypodermic needle. Both acupoints belong to the traditional AP points of bovine and equine systems. Most animals showed heat within 14 days after aquapuncture and were inseminated artificially. Serum progesterone concentrations and rectal palpation were used for pregnancy diagnosis. The pregnancy rate after the treatment was 14/18 (77.7%) and 12/18 (66.6%) based on progesterone concentration and rectal palpation respectively, suggesting AP as a simple and effective method to treat repeat breeders in dairy herds. However, the final result obtained from actual delivery of fetus in the experimental animals was only 8/18 (44.4%). (28 ref.) Aural AP in a bitch with cauda equina compression syndrome. Ohrakupunktur bei einer Hundin mit Cauda equina-Kompressions- Syndrom. Magdeburg, M. Schachtstr. 10, 66299 Friedrichsthal, Germany. Biologische Tiermedizin , Volume: 20 , Number: 1 , Page: 20 , 2003 A 10-year-old Hovawart bitch with an 18-month history of hindquarter weakness, was examined. Cauda equina compression syndrome was diagnosed, but drug therapy was unsuccessful. Clinical and physical examination indicated that auricular AP was a possibility. This treatment is described, using infra-red laser treatment. The dog showed improvement after 2 days. Treatment was given every 3rd day for 4 treatments, with further improvement in the animal's condition. Physiotherapy was instituted to strengthen the dog's muscles. Examination 2 months later showed deterioration in the animal's condition, and the same ear points were given laser treatment. (3 ref.) Auricular AP decreases neuropeptide Y expression in the hypothalamus of food-deprived Sprague-Dawley rats. Kim EeHwa; Kim Younhee; Jang MiHyun; Lim BaekVin; Kim YounJung; Chung JooHo; Kim ChangJu Department of Meridianology, College of Oriental Medicine, Semyung University, Chungbuk 390-711, Korea Republic. Neuroscience Letters , Volume: 307 , Number: 2 , Page: 113-116 , 2001 The aim of the present study was to investigate whether stimulation of auricular AP point has any effects on the expression of neuropeptide Y (NPY), appetite-inducing factor particularly abundant in the mammalian hypothalamus. In food- deprived condition, enhanced NPY expression was detected in both the arcuate nucleus (ARN) and the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus via immunohistochemistry in Sprague- Dawley rats. Needling the unfed rats on the auricular point resulted in decreased NPY levels in both the ARN and PVN, while it increased NPY levels in the ARN and PVN of fed rats. The present findings indicate that auricular AP may affect NPY expression in the ARN and PVN of the hypothalamus. Auricular AP in veterinary medicine. Use in the most important animal species. Ohrakupunktur in der Veterinarmedizin: Anwendung bei den wichtigsten Teirarten. Ambronn, G.; Petermann, U.; Werner, L. Ohrakupunktur in der Veterinarmedizin: Anwendung bei den wichtigsten Teirarten viii + 116 Pages , 2001 Editors: Ambronn, G.; Petermann, U.; Werner, L. Publisher: Johannes Sonntag, Verlagsbuchhandlung GmbH, , Stuttgart , Germany This is thought to be the first book on auricular AP in veterinary medicine. It is in two parts, the first covering fundamental aspects of traditional Chinese medicine and AP, and therapeutic basis, and the second part includes a number of actual examples in a wide range of animal species. Auricular maps are given for the horse, dog, cat, rabbit, guineapig, cattle, sheep and pig. The diagnosis and systematics of AP and laser therapy as well as the use of cartography of reflex zones are illustrated with practical examples in animals, including some case reports. The appendix gives lists of addresses of manufacturers of equipment, including costs of the various pieces of apparatus. Bee products and their medicinal uses - a review. Stangaciu, S. German Apitherapy Society, Passau, Germany. Honeybee Science , Volume: 23 , Number: 3 , Page: 97-104 , 2002 Bee products have been used since ancient times by human civilization, not only as a high quality food, but as a natural remedy against various diseases as well. The therapeutical use of bee products is called apitherapy. There is a wide selection of apitherapics available in the market and one must choose the product that is best suited to one's needs. A bee product with maximum benefit at the least possible time should be considered. Also, it is important to know the aetiology of the disease. If there is inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals, then it is possible that these substances may be present in one or several bee products. Knowledge of the composition of bee products is essential. An extensive bibliography on the composition, properties and indications of bee products is available at the Apitherapy Reference Database (http://www.sci.fi/apither). The biochemical composition of bee products is already well-known. Certain properties of bee products are beneficial in treating diseases and disorders of internal organs or systems. For example, royal jelly, bee venom and propolis have antiviral properties against viruses which cause influenza, herpes or human immunodeficiency virus infections. Honey, with antiinflammatory properties, is an effective cure for inflamed gastric mucosa or gastritis. There are over 250 human and animal diseases which can be alleviated or even cured with adequate knowledge about bee products. The Oriental approach to healing, particularly AP, is the best method to use with bee products. (8 ref.) Complementary therapies for osteoarthritis. Long, L. Department of Complementary Medicine, University of Exeter, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, UK. Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies , Volume: 6 , Number: 2 , Page: 103- 107 , 2001 The efficacy of complementary or alternative medicines for osteoarthritis (i.e. AP, herbal medicines, homoeopathy, nutritional supplements, vitamins and minerals and other complementary therapies) is reviewed. (59 ref.) Complementary therapies for overweight and obesity. Pittler, M. H. FACT, University of Exeter, Department of Complementary Medicine, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, UK. Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies , Volume: 7 , Number: 1 , Page: 3-5 , 2002 To assess the evidence for complementary therapies for the treatment of obesity, systematic literature searches were performed in Medline, Embase and Amed up to September 2001. The search yielded evidence for AP, herbal medicinal products, hypnotherapy and dietary supplements. Conventional interventions consisting of diet modification, increased physical activity and lifestyle changes were the most effective measures to achieve weight loss. Few encouraging findings exist for complementary treatments in the management of obesity. Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, seems to have some beneficial effects and may be of value in addition to dietary advice or cognitive behaviour therapy. (27 ref.) Complementary therapies for rheumatoid arthritis. Ernst, E. University of Exeter, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, UK. Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies , Volume: 6 , Number: 4 , Page: 247-250 , 2001 Trial evidence for the most important complementary therapies for rheumatoid arthritis (AP, dietary approaches, herbal medicine, homeopathy, hypnotherapy, relaxation and food supplements) are summarized. (28 ref.) Complementary therapies for the relief of menopausal symptoms. Huntley, A. L. Department of Complementary Medicine, University of Exeter, 25 Victoria Park Road, Exeter EX2 4NT, UK. Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies , Volume: 7 , Number: 2 , Page: 121-125 , 2002 This paper reviews the effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for treating menopausal symptoms based on clinical trials. CAM treatments reviewed include herbal medicines (e.g. herbal preparations from Actaea racemosa, Trifolium praeteus, Piper methysticum, Panax ginseng, Angelica sinensis, and Oenothera biennis), dietary supplements (soyabean products or phytoestrogens), AP, relaxation, and spinal manipulation. (47 ref.) Conventional and alternative treatments for endometriosis. Dog, T. L. Tree House Center of Integrative Medicine in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine , Volume: 7 , Number: 6 , Page: 50-56 , 2001 This article dicusses the diagnosis and treatment (nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, hormone therapy (oral contraceptives, progestins, GnRH agonists and danazol) and surgical operations) of endometriosis. Some of the dietary measures and botanicals (e.g., chastetree/Vitex agnus- castus, black cohosh/Cimicifuga racemosa, black haw/Viburnum prunifolium, dong quai/Angelica sinensis, ginger/Zingiber officinale, kava kava/Piper methysticum, pulsatilla/Anemone pulsatilla, cotton root bark/Gossypium herbaceum, yellow vine/Tripterygium wilfordii) and Turska's formula (contains extracts from Aconitum napellus, Gelsemium sempervirens, Bryonia alba and Phytolacca americana) that are either currently recommended for endometriosis or show some promise of efficacy, are described, as well as other interventions and strategies such as AP, massage, exercise and relaxation, and compresses. (53 ref.) Cutaneous analgesia, hemodynamic and respiratory effects, and beta -endorphin concentration in spinal fluid and plasma of horses after AP and electroAP. Skarda, R. T.; Tejwani, G. A.; Muir, W. W., III Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. American Journal of Veterinary Research , Volume: 63 , Number: 10 , Page: 1435-1442 , 2002 Objective: To determine cutaneous analgesia, haemodynamic and respiratory effects, and beta -endorphin concentration in spinal fluid and plasma of horses after AP and electroAP (EA). Animals: 8 healthy 10- to 20-year-old mares that weighed between 470 and 600 kg. Procedure: Each horse received 2 hours of AP and 2 hours of PAES at acupoints Bladder 18, 23, 26, and 28 on both sides of the vertebral column as well as sham needle placement (control treatment). Each treatment was administered in a random order. At least 7 days elapsed between treatments. Nociceptive cutaneous pain threshold was measured by use of skin twitch reflex latency (STRL) and avoidance to radiant heat (less than or equal to 50 deg C) in the lumbar area. Skin temperature, cardiovascular and respiratory variables, and beta -endorphin concentration in spinal fluid (CSF- EN) and plasma (plasma-EN) were measured. Results: AP and PAES significantly increased STRL and skin temperature. The CSF-EN was significantly increased from baseline values 30 to 120 min after onset of PAES, but it did not change after AP and control treatments. Heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperature, arterial blood pressure, Hct, total solids and bicarbonate concentrations, base excess, plasma-EN, and results of blood gas analyses were not significantly different from baseline values after AP, PAES, and control treatments. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Administration of PAES was more effective than AP for activating the spinal cord to release beta -endorphins into the CSF of horses. AP and PAES provided cutaneous analgesia in horses without adverse cardiovascular and respiratory effects. (57 ref.) Different central manifestations in response to electroAP at analgesic and nonanalgesic acupoints in rats: a manganese- enhanced functional magnetic resonance imaging study. Chiu JenHwey; Chung MaoShu; Cheng HuiCheng; Yeh TzuCheng; Hsieh JenChuen; Chang ChungYen; Kuo WanYo; Cheng, H.; Ho LowTone Institute of Traditional Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Number 155, Section 2, Li-Nong Street, Peitou, Taipei, 112, Taiwan. Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research , Volume: 67 , Number: 2 , Page: 94-101 , 2003 AP analgesia is an important issue in veterinary medicine. This study was designed to elucidate central modulation effects in response to electroAP (EA) at different acupoints. Manganese-enhanced functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed in Sprague-Dawley rats after sham AP, sham EA, or true EA at somatic acupoints. The acupoints were divided into 3 groups: group 1, analgesic acupoints commonly used for pain relief, such as Hegu (LI 4); group 2, nonanalgesic acupoints rarely used for analgesic effect, such as Neiguan (PC 6); and group 3, acupoints occasionally used for analgesia, such as Zusanli (ST 36). Image acquisition was performed on a 1.5-T superconductive clinical scanner with a circular polarized extremity coil. The results showed that there was no neural activation caused by EA at a true acupoint with shallow needling and no electric current (sham AP). When EA at a true acupoint was applied with true needling but no electric current (sham EA), there was only a slight increase in brain activity at the hypothalamus; when EA was applied at a true acupoint with true needling and an electric current (true EA), the primary response at the hypothalamus was enhanced. Also, there was a tendency for the early activation of pain-modulation areas to be prominent after EA at analgesic acupoints as compared with nonanalgesic acupoints. In conclusion, understanding the linkage between peripheral acupoint stimulation and central neural pathways provides not only an evidence-based approach for veterinary AP but also a useful guide for clinical applications of AP. (31 ref.) Double-blind evaluation of implants of gold wire at AP points in the dog as a treatment for osteoarthritis induced by hip dysplasia. Hielm-Bjorkman, A.; Raekallio, M.; Kuusela, E.; Saarto, E.; Markkola, A.; Tulamo, R. M. Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, PO Box 57, University of Helsinki, FIN-00014 Helsinki, Finland. Veterinary Record , Volume: 149 , Number: 15 , Page: 452-456 , 2001 Thirty-eight dogs with hip dysplasia were studied to evaluate the use of gold wire implants at AP points around the hip joints. They were assigned at random into two groups of 19 each. In the treated group, gold wire was inserted through hypodermic needles at electrically found AP points around both hips. In the control group, the areas were prepared in the same way but had only the skin pierced at sites which were not AP points with a needle of the same size as that used in the treated group. Over a period of six months the dogs were studied repeatedly by two veterinarians and by the dogs' owners who were unaware of the treatments the dogs had received; they assessed the dogs' locomotion, hip function and signs of pain. Radiographs were taken at the beginning and end of the study. Although the data collected from both groups by the veterinarians and the owners showed a significant improvement of locomotion and reduction in signs of pain (P=0.036 for the veterinary evaluation and locomotion and P=0.0001 and P=0.0034 for the owners' evaluation of locomotion and pain, respectively), there were no statistically significant differences between the treated and control groups (P=0.19 and P=0.41, P=0.24, respectively). (25 ref.) Effect of AP on smoking cessation or reduction: an 8-month and 5- year follow-up study. He Dong; Medbo, J. I.; Hostmark, A. T. Department of General Practice and Community Medicine, University of Oslo, N-0318 Oslo, Norway. Preventive Medicine , Volume: 33 , Number: 5 , Page: 364-372 , 2001 46 healthy men and women smokers who were 39 plus or minus 9 years of age, had smoked for 23 plus or minus 8 years, who had been smoking 20 plus or minus 6 cigarettes per day, and all wanted to quit were recruited from a large company in Oslo, Norway. The subjects were divided into 2 groups, referred to as the test group (TG) and the control group (CG). Each subject received a total of 6 AP treatments given as 2 treatments per week over a period of 3 weeks. The acupoints used for the TG were selected to affect smoking-related organs (e.g., lungs, airways and mouth), whereas for the CG, AP was applied to acupoints considered to have no effect on smoking cessation. Each subject answered questionnaires about his/her smoking habits and attitudes before, after each subsequent treatment, and 8 months and 5 years after the last treatment. Blood samples for measuring variables related to smoking (i.e., serum cotinine, thiocyanate, plasma fibrinogen and thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances) were taken. Results revealed that cigarette consumption fell on average by 14 (TG) and 7 (CG) cigarettes per day during the treatment period. 17 subjects from TG and 2 from CG had quit smoking. TG showed a maintained reduction in smoking and they reported that cigarettes tasted worse than before the treatment. In addition, the desire to smoke fell, as well as the serum concentration for cotinine. It is concluded that adequate AP treatment may help motivate smokers to reduce their smoking, or even quit smoking completely. (27 ref.) Effect of bee venom treatment in sows with oligogalactic syndrome postpartum. Choi SeokHwa; Kang SeongSoo; Bae ChunSik; Cho SeongKoo; Pak SokCheon College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 48 Gaeshin-dong, Heungduk-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 361-763, Korea Republic. American Journal of , Volume: 31 , Number: 1 , Page: 149-155 , 2003 The objective of this study was to determine the clinico-therapeutic effect of worker honeybee venom in sows with oligogalactic syndrome postpartum. Comparison between bee venom- and drug-treated groups was our main concern in the present study. Sows after parturition were assigned to bee venom- and drug-treated groups, respectively. In the bee venom-treated group, 22 sows were bee-APd once a day for 3 consecutive days. Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) for bee AP were about 15 days old after metamorphosis. Live bees were used to sting the acupoints known as Yang-ming (ST-18, 1.5 cm lateral to the base of the last two pairs of teats) and Jiao-chao (GV-1, at the indentation between the base of tail and the anus). In the drug- treated group, 20 sows were intramuscularly injected with a standard dose of penicillin G (400,000 IU/head) once a day for 3 consecutive days. On post-treatment day 4, 85.0% of the drug- treated group and 90.9% of the bee venom-treated group recovered from oligogalactic syndrome postpartum. The result suggested that apitherapy using worker honeybee is an effective treatment for sows with oligogalactic syndrome postpartum. (24 ref.) Effect of traditional AP on canine gastric motility. Jeong SeongMok; Kim HuiYoung; Nam TchiChou College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea Republic. Journal of Veterinary Clinics , Volume: 19 , Number: 4 , Page: 397- 400 , 2002 The effect of traditional AP on gastric motility was investigated in dogs. Six healthy mixed-breed dogs were used in this study. The gastric motility was evaluated by electrogastromyograms (EGMG) of the smooth muscle of the pyloric region. The acupoints investigated were ST-36, ST-40, ST- 41, ST-42, ST-45, BL-21 and CV-12. The gastric motility was increased by traditional AP at ST-36 and BL-21 but decreased by traditional AP at CV-12. However, there were no significant changes in the gastric motility after AP at ST-40, ST-41, ST-42 and ST-45. (11 ref.) Effects of traditional AP on colonic motility in the rat with colitis. Kim HeeYoung; Shim InSop; Lee HyeJung; Jeong SeongMok; Kim SunYoung; Nam TchiChou Graduate School of East-West Medical Science, Kyung Hee University, Korea Republic. Journal of Veterinary Clinics , Volume: 20 , Number: 1 , Page: 22-25 , 2003 The aims of this study were to investigate the efficacy of AP on myoelectrical activity of inflamed or normal colon in the rat, and whether the effect of AP on colonic motility was related to endogenous opioids. 22 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 3 groups. Experimental groups were normal group (n=8), colitis group (n=6), and naloxone group (n=8). Stainless steel bipolar electrodes were implanted on the serosal layer of the proximal colon of rats. Colitis was induced 7 days after electrode implantation using trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) and ethanol. Electromyograms (EMG) were recorded by using polygraph 11 days after implantation of electrodes. In normal group, normal colonic motility was recorded for 60 min, and then traditional AP at GV-1 was applied for 20 min and EMG was recorded for further 60 min in untreated rats. In colitis group, after recording of basal colonic motility for 60 min, 20 min of AP treatment and further EMG recording were performed for 60 min in TNBS/ethanol treated rats. In naloxone group, following subcutaneous administration of naloxone (3 mg/kg), recording of EMG and AP treatment were performed in TNBS/ethanol treated rats. In the normal group, AP at GV-1 did not induce significant changes in colonic motility. TNBS/ethanol treatment had no significant effect on the frequency of colonic motility. In colitis group, GV-1 AP significantly decreased colonic motility (P<0.01). In naloxone group, after injection of naloxone, AP at GV-1 did not change colonic motility in TNBS/ethanol treated rats. On the inflamed colon, naloxone blocked the effect of AP. The present results suggested that endogenous opioids released by AP at GV- 1 decreased the motility of inflamed colon in rats, but not the normal colon. (25 ref.) Gait analysis of dogs with hip dysplasia treated with gold bead implantation AP. Bolliger, C.; DeCamp, C. E.; Stajich, M.; Flo, G. L.; Martinez, S. A.; Bennett, R. L.; Bebchuk, T. Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA. Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology , Volume: 15 , Number: 2 , Page: 116-122 , 2002 A 'double blinded' prospective study was undertaken to determine whether gold bead implantation AP alleviates lameness and pain in dogs, affected by moderate to severe hip dysplasia. Nineteen large-breed adult dogs, of various breeds with clinical and radiographic evidence of hip dysplasia, were randomly assigned to the AP or the placebo group. The AP treatment with gold bead implantation was performed by a licensed acupuncturist. Objective data were acquired, in the gait analysis laboratory, using kinetic and kinematic parameters before and at one and three months after treatment. In the AP group there was a decrease in vertical and peak vertical impulse formation at one month, which indicated an increase in lameness, without any significant difference between groups at three months post- treatment. Subjective data were gathered by radiographs as well as serial complete physical examinations by an experienced clinician and an owner questionnaire, before and at one and three months after treatment. Subjective grading of hip dysplasia radiographs did not show any difference in severity between the two groups. According to the physical examination, one dog in the AP group improved, five stayed the same and three worsened. In the placebo group two dogs improved, four stayed the same and three worsened. According to the questionnaire, three dogs in AP group improved, four stayed the same and two worsened. In the placebo group three dogs improved and six stayed the same. Serial blood analyses were performed and the results were within normal limits at all times. (21 ref.) Hepatitis B and C virus prevalence in a rural area of South Korea: the role of AP. Shin, H. R.; Kim, J. Y.; Kim, J. I.; Lee, D. H.; Yoo, K. Y.; Lee, D. S.; Franceschi, S. Division of Cancer Control and Epidemiology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 809 Madu-dong, Ilsan-Gu, Koyang, Kyonggi 411-764, Korea Republic. British Journal of Cancer , Volume: 87 , Number: 3 , Page: 314- 318 , 2002 A cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence of and the risk factors for hepatitis C and B viruses among 700 adults above the age of 40 years in a rural area of South Korea. Seropositivity for hepatitis C virus antibody (11.0%, 95% confidence interval: 8.7-13.6) was higher than that for hepatitis B surface antigen (4.4%, 95% confidence interval: 3.0-6.2). Anti- hepatitis C virus seropositivity was associated with a history of repeated AP (odds ratio=2.1, 95% confidence interval: 1.1-4.0), and blood transfusion (odds ratio=5.5, 95% confidence interval: 1.6- 19.3) before 1992 when hepatitis C virus screening in blood donors became mandatory. Hepatitis C virus 2a was the most prevalent genotype, followed by 1b. Hepatitis C virus risk attributable to AP was 38% (9% for men and 55% for women). Safer AP practice has become a priority for hepatitis C virus prevention in South Korea. (31 ref.) Influence of electro-AP on pain threshold in horses and its mode of action. Xie, H.; Ott, E. A.; Harkins, J. D.; Tobin, T.; Colahan, P. T.; Johnson, M. Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610- 0136, USA. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science , Volume: 21 , Number: 12 , Page: 591-600 , 2001 Electro-AP (EA) treatments varied in their effect on pain threshold in horses. EA stimulation using local AP points or/and high frequency (80-120 Hz) can be more effective to relieve the experimental pain than the use of distal points and/or low frequency (20 Hz). The acupoints close to the painful areas may need to be stimulated with high frequency EA while the acupoints far from the painful areas may be stimulated with low frequency EA. The release of beta -endorphin may be one of the pathways in which electro-AP relieves the experimental pain. (52 ref.) Laser AP and low-calorie diet during visceral obesity therapy after menopause. Wozniak, P.; Stachowiak, G.; Pieta-Dolinska, A.; Oszukowski, P. Specialistic Outpatient Clinics of Obstetrics and Female Diseases, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital, Research Institute, 93-338 Lod, Poland. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica , Volume: 82 , Number: 1 , Page: 69-73 , 2003 Background: To compare the efficiency of low-calorie diet and low- calorie diet applied together with laser AP in the therapy of visceral obesity in postmenopausal women. Methods: The study population consisted of 74 postmenopausal females with visceral obesity who were divided into two groups according to an employed 6-month slimming procedure. All were recruited from patients visiting the Specialist Outpatient Clinic at Polish Mothers Memorial Hospital Research Institute in Lodz, Poland. Both groups I (n=36) and II (n=38) were provided with low calorie diets, while women in the 2nd group were also given one cycle of laser AP procedure at the same time. At baseline and at the end of the study, body weight, body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio were determined in all women. Results: After 6 months, both groups exhibited a statistically significant drop in body weight, body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio. The mean reduction of body weight, body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio was significantly higher in the 2nd group of women (laser AP plus low-calorie diet). Conclusions: Our results indicate that the combination of a low-calorie diet and laser AP is characterized by a higher efficacy than a low-calorie diet alone in lowering body weight, body mass index and waist-to-hip-ratio. Laser AP is an additional useful healing method in the therapy of visceral postmenopausal obesity. (23 ref.) Laser AP on horses with COPD. Laserakupunktur pa hastar med COPD. Petermann, U. Schmale Str 20, 49326 Melle, Germany. Svensk Veterinartidning , Volume: 54 , Number: 11 , Page: 527- 533 , 2002 105 horses with extreme COPD were treated exclusively using laser AP. No other medical or alternative therapy was administered. All patients had been treated previously over long periods of time (3 months-10 years) with conventional therapies such as cortisone, clenbuterol, dembrexin hydrochloride and acetylcystein, hyperinfusion, inhalation, without success. The AP lasers used were infrared pulsed lasers with 60 and 90 mWatt peak pulse power, with an impulse width of 200 nsec. As pulse frequencies, the range between 100 and 10 000 Hz was used (1, 24). The horses were treated 4-12 times on each point for 30 seconds (1 case 29 times, on average 6.5 times). The interval between treatments was 4-7 days. In most of the patients (n=79) a clear reaction could be seen already during the first session. The horses were able to breath deeper and remove secretion in a manner similar to that seen after infusion therapy. 15 patients that had not improved after 3 or 4 treatments, were treated with laser on marked points by their owners every day for 2-3 weeks, with a 30 mW continuous laser, 30 seconds on each point. After conclusion of the treatment, 73 horses appeared to have been cured. There was no more coughing, no more difficulty in breathing, the respiratory tract was clean and showed no signs of inflammation. The horses seemed to be in excellent physical condition. 17 horses were much better and had no more problems with their stamina, but sometimes had a slight cough while being ridden. 11 horses were better than before and could be ridden, but their stamina was not completely restored and they were still coughing. Only 4 horses showed no signs of improvement following the treatment. (34 ref.) Luteal and clinical response following administration of dinoprost tromethamine or cloprostenol at standard intramuscular sites or at the lumbosacral AP point in mares. Nie, G. J.; Goodin, A. N.; Braden, T. D.; Wenzel, J. G. W. Department of Large Animal Surgery and Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849-5522, USA. American Journal of Veterinary Research , Volume: 62 , Number: 8 , Page: 1285-1289 , 2001 The objective of the study is to determine whether administration of a microdose of prostaglandin at the BAI HUI AP point offers any advantage over IM injections for luteolysis, ovulatory interval, or systemic response in mares. 17 mature cycling mares, 3 to 20 years of age and weighing 400 to 500 kg, were studied. Conventional and microdoses of the prostaglandin dinoprost tromethamine (PGF2 alpha ), the analogue cloprostenol, or sterile water (control) were administered to mares in 7 treatment groups. Treatments were assigned by dose, administration site (semimembranosus, semitendinosus, or lumbosacral region), and treatment type (PGF2 alpha , analogue, or sterile water). Mares were observed for ovulatory interval and systemic response to treatment, including heart, and respiratory rates, rectal temperature, and sweat score. Plasma progesterone concentrations were also determined at the time of treatment and at 24-hour intervals for 96 hours following treatment. Ovulatory interval was shortened and progesterone concentrations decreased in prostaglandin-treated mares, compared with control mares, regardless of dose or treatment site. However, no differences in ovulatory interval were observed among prostaglandin-treated mares. Mares treated with conventional doses of PGF2 alpha had greater systemic responses than mares treated with microdoses of PGF2 alpha or sterile water. Administration of prostaglandins at the BAI HUI AP point does not appear to offer any advantage over administration at standard IM injection sites for induction of luteolysis or to shorten the ovulatory interval. However, administration of a microdose of the analogue cloprostenol was effective at inducing luteolysis and shortening ovulatory interval regardless of administration site. (7 ref.) Managing helminths of ruminants in organic farming. Cabaret, J.; Bouilhol, M.; Mage, C. INRA, PAP, 37380 Nouzilly, France. Veterinary Research , Volume: 33 , Number: 5 , Page: 625-640 , 2002 Special Issue. Parasitism in herbivores: evolution of breeding management and environmental demand. The use of anthelmintics is strongly limited in organic farming. This may induce a change in the intensity (number of worms) and diversity (proportions of species) of helminth infection. Helminths remain a major preoccupation in organic sheep farming: high levels of infection have been recorded on several farms and helminth diversity is always higher. The helminth infection in milk cattle of northern Europe is controlled and diversity is higher in organic farms, as recorded in sheep. The role of helminth diversity on intensity is still unclear. Grazing management is one of the means to controlling helminths. The use of safe pastures for calves and sheep after weaning is one of the major components of control. The use of alternate or mixed grazing is common for cattle in northern countries but is uncommon for sheep in France. Grazing management is not sufficient to controlling infection in sheep and conventional anthelmintic treatments are performed. Additionally, alternative treatments are used. The alternative therapies based on phytotherapy, homeopathy or AP are largely recommended in organic farming but do not have any demonstrated efficacy. More research is needed to evaluate such therapies. (63 ref.) Natural healing in hormonal disturbances and childlessness. Naturheilverfahren bei Hormonstorungen und unerfulltem Kinderwunsch. Gerhard, I. Ambulanz fur Naturheilkunde der Univ.- Frauenklinik Heidelberg, Vossstr. 9, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany. Biologische Medizin , Volume: 32 , Number: 1 , Page: 12-16 , 2003 Studies carried out in Germany showed that hormonal disturbances in women can be caused by environmental pollution (mainly nicotine from smoking), and lifestyle factors (over- and underweight). Phytotherapy, AP and homeopathy were shown to have positive results in treating hormonal disturbances, fertility problems, repeated miscarriage and endometriosis. (1 ref.) Ovulation rate and synchronization rate in Holstein and crossbred cows, at 2 different seasons, receiving the PGF2 alpha at day 6 or 7 of the Ovsynch protocol. Taxas de ovulacao e de sincronizacao em vacas Holandesas e Girolandas, em duas estacoes, que receberam PGF2 alpha no dia 6 ou 7 do protocolo " Ovsynch " . Vasconcelos, J. L. M.; Cerri, R. L. A.; Araujo, T. P. B.; Valarelli, R. L.; Vilela, E. R.; Meneghetti, M.; Santos, R. M. Faculdade Medicina Veterinaria e Zootecnia, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Cep:18618-000, Brazil. Conference: XIV Congresso Brasileiro de Reproducao Animal. Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 1-5 August, 2001. Revista Brasileira de Reproducao Animal , Volume: 25 , Number: 3 , Page: 296-298 , 2001 Editors: Pinheiro, L. P. L. This study was designed to evaluate whether synchronization rate varied between seasons (winter vs. summer), breeds (Holstein (Holstein-Friesian) vs. Holstein x Gir) and day of PGF2 alpha injection (day 6 or 7 after the first GnRH injection). This trial was conducted in 2 commercial dairy herds (one with Holstein cows and another with crossbred cows) in September 1999 (winter) and January 2000 (summer) (Brazil). The cows (n=159) were assigned randomly to receive PGF2 alpha injection on day 6 at the AP point BAI HUI, located at the sacral lumbar space or intramuscularly at day 7, after the first GnRH injection. Both groups received a second GnRH injection 48 h after the PGF2 alpha injection. Ultrasonography was used to evaluate the ovulation to first GnRH, structural regression of the corpus luteum and ovulation to second GnRH. Data were analysed using the logistic procedure of SAS. Ovulation rate to the first GnRH injection was higher (P<0.05) in winter than in summer, with 61.4 (27/44) and 37.8% (14/37) for Holstein and 58.3 (21/36) and 45.2% (19/42) for crossbred cows, respectively. The lower evolution rate during the summer could be due to quick loss of ovulatory capacity by the dominant follicle. In cows that ovulated to the first GnRH injection (n=81), the day of PGF2 alpha injection did not influence (P>0.01) the structural regression of the corpus luteum, with 92 (36/39) and 100% (42/42) for day 6 and 7, respectively. Summer had more detrimental effect on the synchronization of ovulation in Holstein cows (P=0.07; 62.2 vs. 72.7%) than crossbred cows (59.5 vs. 63.9%). The greater decrease on the synchronization rate in Holstein cows could be due to higher sensitivity to heat stress and to quick loss of ovulatory capacity by the dominant follicle. Injection of PGF2 alpha on day 6 was efficient in increasing the synchronization rate, but did not influence the fate of the dominant follicle. For the PGF2 alpha injection on day six, 71.6% cows were synchronized, 13.5% ovulated between first and second GnRH and 14.9% did not ovulate 48 h after the second GnRH. The values for injection at day 7 were 58.8, 16.5 and 24.7%, respectively. It is concluded that lactating cows receiving the Ovsynch protocol during the summer have decreased ovulation and synchronization rates. These are possibly due to the increase in proportion of cows with 3 follicular waves. (4 ref.) Owner survey of headshaking in horses. Madigan, J. E.; Bell, S. A. Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association , Volume: 219 , Number: 3 , Page: 334-337 , 2001 To determine signalment, history, clinical signs, duration, seasonality, and response to various treatments reported by owners for headshaking in horses, 109 horses with headshaking were used. Owners of affected horses completed a survey questionnaire. 78 affected horses were geldings, 29 were mares, and 2 were stallions. Mean age of onset was 9 years. Headshaking in 64 horses had a seasonal component, and for most horses, headshaking began in spring and ceased in late summer or fall. The most common clinical signs were shaking the head in a vertical plane, acting like an insect was flying up the nostril, snorting excessively, rubbing the muzzle on objects, having an anxious expression while headshaking, worsening of clinical signs with exposure to sunlight, and improvement of clinical signs at night. Treatment with antihistamines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, antimicrobials, fly control, chiropractic, and AP had limited success. Sixty-one horses had been treated with cyproheptadine; 43 had moderate to substantial improvement. Headshaking may have many causes. A large subset of horses have similar clinical signs including shaking the head in a vertical plane, acting as if an insect were flying up the nostrils, and rubbing the muzzle on objects. Seasonality and worsening of clinical signs with exposure to light are also common features of this syndrome. Geldings and Thoroughbreds appear to be overrepresented. Cyproheptadine treatment was beneficial in more than two thirds of treated horses. (26 ref.) Pain management in horses. Lindner, A. Pain management in horses 98 Pages , 2003 Questions & Answers for Equine Professional 2 Editors: Lindner, A. Publisher: Arbeitsgruppe Pferd , Essen , Germany This book comprises four papers presented at an Arbeitgruppe Pferd meeting (Bonn, Germany, May, 2001), and includes the discussion following each paper and the general discussion at the meeting. The book also includes two CD-ROMs containing films on 'Pain control during surgery', 'Pain control with AP' and 'Pain control via epidural anaesthesia'. The papers are entitled: What produces chronic pain? and how do we assess pain?' (by P. W. Hellyer and A. D. Fails); Pharmacology of pain and analgesia (P. M. Taylor); Pain control in the horse with AP (J. Y Guray); Case presentations (4 cases presented). (Many ref.) Physiological, cardiopulmonary and clinico-surgical effects of auriculo-electroAP anaesthesia in dogs. Rajesh Tripathi; Jadon, N. S.; Amresh Kumar Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttaranchal 263 145, India. Indian Journal of Animal Sciences , Volume: 71 , Number: 10 , Page: 896- 898 , 2001 Fourteen clinically healthy dogs were divided into three respective groups of 5, 5 and 4 animals each. After intravenous premedication with diazepam (1 mg/kg) for purposes of restraint, dogs in groups 2 and 3 were bilaterally electrostimulated at GV-20, UB-62 and at the auricular abdominal analgesia area. For dogs in group 1, AP needles were inserted at non-specific acupoints and served as control. Bilateral electroAP stimulation of acupoints GV- 20, UB-62 and auricular abdominal area analgesia produced excellent and complete anaesthesia with good muscle relaxation at the upper and lower flank, anterior quadrant of the abdomen, ventrolateral abdomen, pelvic and perineal region, teats and udder, along with the anus and vulva, forelimbs (up to the carpal joint) and hind limbs (up to the hock joint), medial and lateral aspects of the thigh, and a good degree of anaesthesia at the neck region and base of tail. The duration of anaesthesia lasted as long as stimulation continued. A nonsignificant and mild increase in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was seen after electroAP stimulation. Rectal temperature, tidal volume, minute volume, central venous pressure (CVP) and electrocardiogram (ECG) were not affected. Laparatomy, gastrotomy, end to end anastomosis of intestine and ovariohysterectomy were successfully performed without any inconvenience to the animals after electroAP stimulation. (18 ref.) Preliminary crystallographic studies of EcTI, a serine proteinase inhibitor from Enterolobium contortisiliquum seeds. Batista, I. F. C.; Nonato, M. C.; Bonfadini, M. R.; Beltramini, L. M.; Oliva, M. L. V.; Sampaio, M. U.; Sampaio, C. A. M.; Garratt, R. C. Departamento de Bioquimica, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), Rua Tres de Maio 100, CEP 04044-020 Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. Acta Crystallographica. Section D, Biological Crystallography , Volume: 57 , Number: 4 , Page: 602-604 , 2001 Enterolobium contortisiliquum trypsin inhibitor (EcTI) belongs to the Kunitz family of plant inhibitors, which are widely distributed in nature, especially in plant seeds. EcTI is composed of two polypeptide chains with a total of 174 residues, homologous to other inhibitors from the same family. EcTI crystals, which were obtained with the AP-gel technique, diffract to 2.0 A resolution and belong to space group P21, with unit-cell parameters a=37.12, b=38.42, c=54.08 A, beta =98.08 deg . Molecular-replacement techniques using Erythrina caffra trypsin inhibitor (PDB code 1 tie) as the search model indicate one monomer in the asymmetric unit. The secondary-structure content of EcTI was determined by circular dichroism spectroscopy, yielding values compatible with the expected topology. (28 ref.) Research methodology: evaluating complementary and alternative therapies. Tamayo, C.; Boon, H.; Ghishan, F.; Trinh, K. Division of Complementary & Alternative Medicine, Foresight Links Corporation, 25-270 North Centre Rd., London, Ontario N6G 5E2, Canada. Drug Information Journal , Volume: 36 , Number: 3 , Page: 535-548 , 2002 Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) represents an opportunity to expand tools for assisting patients with health care issues, retain or increase market share by proactively responding to consumers, and increase our understanding of interventions outside of conventional medicine. CAM research is a flourishing area that is currently receiving a new focus as a result of the creation of recognized CAM research centres in university settings worldwide. Several botanical products, complex CAM interventions and individual approaches are now being tested with rigorous and well-controlled research. Adequate execution of clinical trials, however, represents a major challenge, particularly in medical fields such as paediatrics and CAM therapies such as AP and herbal medicine. The scientific community, industry, and consumers are joining efforts to provide reliable and objective information about the efficacy and safety of CAM therapies. Medical journals are publishing CAM-related issues regularly and there is concern about quality of clinical trials, reliability of results, placebo effect, and publication bias. The number of CAM clinical trials continues to grow although it is still very low compared with conventional medicine trials. There are major research methodology issues that need to be considered in CAM research that have not been completely and thoroughly evaluated. Nevertheless, ideas have been proposed and innovative projects are ongoing. The conduct of CAM research requires the commitment of the scientific community as well as substantial funding from governmental institutions and the pharmaceutical industry. (72 ref.) Role of alternative therapies in management of asthma during the intercritical phase in adult patients in Africa. Place des traitements non codifies dans la prise en charge intercritique de l'asthme de l'adulte en milieu africain. Koffi, N. Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Cocody, 22 BP 96 Abidjan 22, Cote d'Ivoire. Medecine Tropicale , Volume: 60 , Number: 4 , Page: 411- 412 , 2000 A questionnaire on the use of alternative therapies for asthma was sent to 268 doctors in 18 towns in Cote d'Ivoire. According to 175 replies, 5 used traditional herbal treatments, and one sometimes used homeopathy; none used AP. Asthma is estimated to affect 10% of the population in Cote d'Ivoire. (3 ref.) Testing of cancer chemopreventive potential of Prunella vulgaris L. aqua-AP solution using biochemical markers of carcinogenesis. Park SinHwa; Cho KyoungHee; Shon YunHee; Lim JongKook; Nam KyungSoo Department of AM-Pointology, College of Oriental Medicine, Dongguk University, Kyongju 780-714, Korea Republic. Korean Journal of Pharmacognosy , Volume: 32 , Number: 2 , Page: 163-167 , 2001 P. vulgaris aqua-AP solution (PVAS) was tested for cancer chemopreventive activity using chemoprevention- associated biochemical end points. The following effects were measured: (a) inhibition of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)- induced cytochrome P4501A1 activity; (b) inhibition of (3H)B(a)P- DNA binding; © inhibition of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (TPA)- induced free radical formation in HL-60 cells; and (d) inhibition of polyamine metabolism. PVAS inhibited cytochrome P4501A1- mediated ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity. The binding of (3H)B(a)P metabolites to DNA of NCTC-clone 1469 cells was significantly inhibited by PVAS. There was a 22% inhibition of TPA- induced free radical formation in human leukaemic cells with 5 mg/ml PVAS. Proliferation of Acanthamoeba castellanii was inhibited by PVAS at concentration of 30 mg/ml. PVAS, positive in these assays, may inhibit the carcinogenesis process and is considered a very promising cancer-preventing agent because of its multiple activities. (19 ref.) The analgesic efficacy of bee venom AP for knee osteoarthritis: a comparative study with needle AP. Kwon YoungBae; Kim JiHoon; Yoon JungHee; Lee JaeDong; Han HoJae; Mar WoungChon; Beitz, A. J.; Lee JangHern Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, School of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Suwon, Korea Republic. American Journal of , Volume: 29 , Number: 2 , Page: 187-199 , 2001 The aim of this investigation was to determine whether bee venom (BV) administered directly into an acupoint was a clinically effective and safe method for relieving the pain of patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) as compared to traditional needle AP. We evaluated the efficacy of BV AP using both pain relief scores and computerized infrared thermography (IRT) following 4 weeks of BV AP treatment. Data were obtained from the Department of AP and Moxibustion at the Kyung-hee Oriental Medical Center, Seoul, Korea Republic during October 1998-May 1999. We observed that a significantly higher proportion of subjects receiving BV AP reported substantial pain relief as compared with those receiving traditional AP therapy. Furthermore, the IRT score was significantly improved and paralleled the level of pain relief. (35 ref.) The effect of conservative therapy on thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease on 15 dogs. Han HyunJung; Jeong SoonWuk; Kim JoonYoung; Jeong ManBok; Kim JeSun Department of Veterinary Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kon-kuk University, Seoul, 142-701, Korea Republic. Journal of Veterinary Clinics , Volume: 20 , Number: 1 , Page: 52-58 , 2003 A total of 15 dogs with clinical signs of paraparesis, paraplegia, and urinary dysfunction were referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University in Korea. According to physical and neurological examinations, survey radiography, and myelography, these patients were diagnosed to be suffering from thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease. All animals were treated with medicines (prednisolone, carprofen, and antibiotics), AP (Ji Zhong, Bai Hui, Zhong Shu, Pang Guang Shu, Zu San Li, and Huan Tiao), and physical therapy (hydrotherapy, thermotherapy, massage, manipulation, and swimming). 12 patients recovered from neurological deficits within 21 days after the onset of treatment. However, 3 dogs were unresolved, which were found to have other spinal cord diseases concomitantly. All of patients showed normal urination after treatment. Until 21 months after treatment, there was no recurrence in 12 patients. This study indicated that the conservative therapy could be effectively managed in paraparesis, paraplegia, and urinary dysfunction caused by intervertebral disc disease. (28 ref.) The influence of AP on sexual hormonal status in cows with hypofunction of ovaries. Zanko, A. P.; Gorbunov, Y. A.; Zatsepin, P. F. Zootechnical Science of Belarus , Page: 77-81 , 2000 Publisher: Belarus Publishing Association 'Khata' , Minsk , Belarus AP at points corresponding to the function of ovaries was found to promote the growth of follicles and to increase reproductive hormone concentrations in cows blood. Before treatment the concentration of progesterone and estradiol was 0.1-0.7 ng/ml and 2.6-9.1 pg/ml, respectively. On the 10th day after treatment their concentrations were increased to 0.4-3.0 ng/ml and 3.8-43.7 pg/ml respectively(P<0.05-0.01). (2 ref.) Therapeutic effect of bee venom in sows with hypogalactia syndrome postpartum. Choi SeokHwa; Kang SeongSoo Department of Veterinary Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763, Korea Republic. Journal of Veterinary Science , Volume: 2 , Number: 2 , Page: 121-124 , 2001 The objective of this study was to determine the clinico- therapeutic effect of whole bee venom in hypogalactic sows postpartum. Sows with hypogalactia syndrome postpartum had swelling of one or several udder glands with insufficient milk production. Escherichia coli, Streptococcus spp and Staphylococcus spp among several other bacteria were predominantly isolated from the mammary glands. Sows after parturition were assigned to treated and nontreated control groups. In the treated group, 22 sows were bee-APd once a day, for 3 consecutive days. Honey bees (Apis mellifera) used for bee-AP were about 15 days after metamorphosis. One live bee was used to sting the acupoints known as Yang-ming (ST-18, 1.5 cm lateral to the base of the last 2 pairs of teats) and Jiao-chao (GV-1, at the indentation between the base of tail and the anus). In the control group, 20 sows were intramuscularly injected with a standard dosage of penicillin G (benzylpenicillin) (400 000 IU/head) once a day for 3 consecutive days. At post-treatment, 85.0% of the drug- treated control and 90.9% of the bee venom-treated group recovered from the hypogalactia syndrome. The advantage of apitherapy was that sows did not have stress, because they were not restrained for a long period. The result suggested that apitherapy using bee venom is an effective treatment for sows with hypogalactia syndrome postpartum. (25 ref.) Traditional and alternative therapies for breast cancer. Dog, T. L.; Riley, D.; Carter, T. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine , Volume: 7 , Number: 3 , Page: 36...47 , 2001 A review is presented briefly discussing the disease incidence, risk factors, and diganosis of breast cancer. The conventional therapy with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy is given followed by integrative medicine such as diet and nutrition, coenzyme Q10, melatonin, calcium D-glucarate and antioxidants. Herbal therapy includes green tea (Camellia sinensis), ginger root (Zingiber officinale), milk thistle (Silybum marianum), astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), and essiac. To reduce cancer-related pain, some patients take the mind-body approach and AP. (73 ref.) Treatment of sow paralysis by AP. Le Huu Nghi Khoa Hoc Ky Thuat Thu Y (Veterinary Sciences and Techniques) , Volume: 8 , Number: 4 , Page: 77-80 , 2001 The use of AP for the treatment of post-farrowing paralysis was evaluated in sows. AP was applied in combination with administration of vitamin B1 for 6 to 8 consecutive days. 5 sows with pre- and post-farrowing paralysis were cured following the treatment. Pregnant sows that received AP treatment showed no abortion and gave normal birth. Ultrasonographic observation of intestinal mobility of dogs after acupunctural stimulation on acupoints ST-36 and BL-27. Choi MinCheol; Jung Juhyun; Seo MinHo; Lee Kichang; Nam TchiChou; Yang Ilsuk; Yoon Yeosung; Yoon JungHee College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Korea Republic. Journal of Veterinary Science , Volume: 2 , Number: 3 , Page: 221-226 , 2001 The objectives of this study were to observe normal peristalsis and mixing (or segmental movements) and to evaluate an AP stimulation (ST-36 and BL-27) of the intestinal (duodenum) motility in normal dogs using duplex Doppler sonography. 15 healthy Beagle dogs were used for this experiment after the administration of warm saline (37 deg C, 10ml/kg, P.O.) and pellet feeding (50g/kg, B.W., P.O.). The duodenal motility was examined using duplex Doppler sonography. Six h after the pellet feeding, an electroAP stimulation at ST-36 and BL-27 was applied and the duodenal motility was examined using duplex Doppler sonography pre-stimulation, during the stimulation and post- stimulation. After saline and pellet administration, the duplex Doppler sonograms showed 3 types of peristalsis and a mixing type (or segmental movement) of duodenum motility. In the peristalsis types, most yielded high-amplitude signals which had one high peak (type-1), two high peaks (type-2), and three high peaks (type-3) lasted more than 1.3 seconds. Mixing type of duodenum motility had weak signals and lasted more than 1.5 seconds. Among the peristalsis types, type 1 and type 2 were predominant and type 3 was rarely observed. The frequency of intestinal motility stimulated by ST-36 acupoint increased during the AP stimulation (20% increase compared to the basal value) and decreased (7% decrease compared to the basal value) after stimulation. The frequency of intestinal motility stimulated by BL-27 acupoint decreased during the AP stimulation (31% decrease compared to the basal value) and increased (18% increase compared to the basal value) after stimulation. There was a significant increase (P<0.01) between the values found during and at post-stimulation tests. We concluded that duplex Doppler studies permit a graphic visualization of intestinal movements which can be qualitatively and quantitatively analysed using this technique, it is possible to evaluate the gastrointestinal motility after an AP stimulation. (21 ref.) Unproved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to food allergy and intolerance. Teuber, S. S.; Porch-Curren, C. Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, One Shields Avenue, TB 192, Davis, CA 95616, USA. Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology , Volume: 3 , Number: 3 , Page: 217-221 , 2003 Purpose of review: Alternative and complementary medicine approaches to allergic disorders are commonly used by patients. Not all have been subjected to experimental analysis to support or refute their validity in the armamentarium of a practitioner. This review covers some of the most common unproved alternative or complementary approaches to diagnosis and therapy that we see in use by patients. These include the use of specific IgG to foods accompanied by rotary diets, provocation-neutralization testing and therapy, applied kinesiology followed by acupressure or AP, and changes in cell size upon in-vitro exposure of leukocytes to food extract (using automated assays going under various trade names) followed by elimination diets or rotary diets. Recent findings: There continues to be a dearth of well performed studies investigating these approaches in the literature, but many testimonials have been posted on websites of practitioners using these methods attesting to their effectiveness. Several recent studies have refuted the use of applied kinesiology and provocation-neutralization in diagnosis. The placebo effect must not be overlooked as a potentially important factor in some approaches. Summary: There have been no studies supporting the use of these techniques, and several have refuted their utility. A beneficial placebo effect may be responsible for the perceived clinical effectiveness in many cases of food intolerance. (34 ref.) Uterine torsion in cattle - AP emergency care. Samuelsen, K. Dansk Veterinaertidsskrift , Volume: 85 , Number: 2 , Page: 18-19 , 2002 An AP procedure was used in 89 cases of uterine torsion. The number of calves born alive was 64 (72%) which was comapred with levels in a prEvious study (52%) in which AP was not used. The same procedure was also used in cases of delayed or insufficient relaxation of the cervixwithout uterine torsion. The AP needles were inserted into the B1 28 and B1 31 points. (5 ref.) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Best regards, WORK : Teagasc Staff Development Unit, Sandymount Ave., Dublin 4, Ireland WWW : Email: < Tel : 353-; [in the Republic: 0] HOME : 1 Esker Lawns, Lucan, Dublin, Ireland WWW : http://homepage.eircom.net/~progers/searchap.htm Email: < Tel : 353-; [in the Republic: 0] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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