bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Acupuncture on Pain Threshold Measurement of Tooth Pulp in the Monkey
Authors: Ha Hongchien , Tan En-Chow
Published: November 2004

The effect of acupuncture on pain threshold from tooth pulp stimulation was studied in alert, awake monkeys. Manual manipulation of acupuncture needles in specific acupuncture points in the hands and legs caused a consistent and significant rise in threshold. Some points, such as Ho-Ku (LI-4) and Tsu-San-Li (St-36), produced more prominent analgesic effects than others. Increase of pain threshold was observed also after application of finger pressure on acupuncture points. Acupuncture and finger pressure applied to certain muscle points exhibited similar analgesic effects.
Acupuncture Therapy for the Treatment of Tobacco Smoking Addiction
Authors: Steiner R. Prasaad , Lee Hay Donald , Davis A. William
Published: November 2004

Acupuncture has been reported as an effective treatment for some addictions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate acupuncture treatment effect on the cigarette smoking habit with a motivated population in controlled clinical setting. From a volunteer research population, sixteen matched pairs were assembled according to age, sex and severity of smoking habit. Research subjects were randomly assigned to real or sham acupuncture treatment groups. Self-reported cigarette logs were measured pre-treatment and post-treatment. Analysis of variants confirmed homogeneity of group pre-treatment cigarette consumption. Cigarette consumption significantly decreased in both the real and sham treatments groups. Treatment group, age, sex, or severity of smoking habit were not significant factors in treatment effects for cessation of smoking. Legitimate crossover treatment for sham research group showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in cigarette consumption; this change was not statistically different from change in cigarette consumption during placebo treatment. A discussion of acupuncture point selection rationale is made as is an analysis of Tehchi sensations and subjective reports of appetite for cigarettes. Acupuncture did not enhance the cessation of cigarette smoking in this study.
The Role of Chinese Traditional Medical Practice as a Form of Health Care in Singapore — II Some Characteristics of Providers
Authors: Ho Suzanne Chan , Kwok Chan Lun , Ng W.K. Cheng Hin
Published: November 2004

A survey of 19 voluntary institutions providing Chinese traditional medical services in Singapore investigated their organisation, the types of medical services provided, patient volume, and the characteristics of the physicians working there. This paper reports on the findings of the survey.
Scientific Clarification of Diagnostics Used in Chinese Traditional Medicine — A Genetic and Biochemical Study of Confirmation
Authors: Arichi Shigeru
Published: November 2004

Chinese medicine has the heritage of diagnostic technique in which the past, present and future characteristics of patients are comprehensively pigeonholed by the concept of ''confirmation'' to presume the prognosis of the disease. If this simple ''therapeutic diagnosis'' to select the therapeutic agents can be combined with ''pathologic diagnosis'' of Western medicine, it could contribute a great deal to the modern medicine. For this purpose, it is necessary to study the philosophy of and agents used in Chinese medicine at the current level of science.
The Role of Chinese Traditional Medical Practice as a Form of Health Care in Singapore — IV Physicians in Private Practice
Authors: Lun Kwok Chan , Chan Suzanne Ho , Ng Cheng Hin
Published: November 2004

Although the government of the Republic of Singapore do not give official recognition to the estimated 1000 Chinese physicians in the country, these practitioners of traditional herbal medicine still enjoy the patronage of a certain segment of the population, 76% of whom are ethnically Chinese. In an earlier paper, we have reported on the characteristics of Chinese physicians who volunteer their service for institutions that provide Chinese traditional health care in Singapore. This complementary paper reports the findings of a survey of 55 physicians who run their own private practice about whom, prior to our study, very litle was known.
Plasma Lipid-lowering Action of Ginseng Saponins and Mechanism of the Action
Authors: Yamamoto Masahiro , Kumagai Akira , Yamamura Yuichi
Published: November 2004

Elevation of plasma levels of cholesterol and triglyceride was reduced by the intramuscular injection ginseng principles fraction 4 (saponin content, ca. ½). The elimination of intraperitoneally injected 4-[14C]-cholesterol from plasma was accelerated by fraction 4 administration. Fecal excretion [14C] bile acids and [14C] sterols after intraperitoneal injection of 4-[14C]-cholesterol was significantly increased by fraction 4 administration.
The Treatment of Meniere's Disease by Acupuncture
Authors: Steinberger Antun , Pansini Mihovil
Published: November 2004

34 patients suffering from Meniere's disease were treated by acupuncture. Prior to acupuncture most of them had been treated with various other medical means without satisfactory results. After acupuncture treatment their condition greatly improved. The classic symptoms of Meniere's disease are vertigo, tinnitus and deafness, but for all the treated patients vertigo was the most uncomfortable and distressing symptom. In all our cases vertigo stopped after a few acupuncture courses; but in our opinion it is more important to follow and control hearing threshold, since if it remains stable the other symptoms of Meniere's disease also do not persist. All our patients were regularly followed by careful audiometric studies several years after acupuncture treatment. In most cases hearing level had not greatly varied, so the other symptoms of Meniere's disease were not present in any large degree.
Effect of Acupuncture on Disorders of Musculoskeletal System in Nigerians
Authors: Ene E.E. , Odia G.I.
Published: November 2004

Acupuncture was offered to patients with lesions affecting the locomotor system. These patients had received conventional physiotherapy treatment with limited success. The lesions treated by acupuncture were hemiplegia, low back pain, frozen shoulder, dropped foot, Sciatica, and arthritis of the knee and hip. Response to acupuncture was excellent in the more acute conditions of low back pain and frozen shoulder, where six treatment sessions were required for complete recovery. The more chronic conditions required many more treatment sessions and the improvement recorded was significant, though not complete. It was concluded that acupuncture has a valuable role to play in a physiotherapy department.
Effects of Electroacupuncture on Leukocytes and Plasma Protein in the X-irradiated Rats
Authors: Hau D.M.
Published: November 2004

The effects of electroacupunture on leukocytes and plasma protein on X ray-irradiated rats were investigated in the present study. The results showed that X-irradiation had an evident inhibitory effect on the counts of total leukocytes, lymphocytes and neutrocytes, and the concentration of the total plasma protein, plasma albumin, globulin and α- and β-globulin in X-irradiated rats. The electroacupuncture was able to help the X-irradiated rats to recover the counts of the total leukocyte, lymphocyte and neutrocyte. The electroacupuncture had a helpful tendency to recover the concentration of the total plasma protein, albumin, globulin, and α- and β-globulin in the irradiated rats.
Acupuncture Points of the Typical Spinal Nerves
Authors: Dung H.C.
Published: November 2004

Typical spinal nerves have six cutaneous branches which reach to the skin of the body wall in the thorax and abdomen. Each of these six cutaneous branches correlates to an acupuncture point. This communication describes acupuncture points found in the thoracic and abdominal walls using anatomic nomenclature relating to cutaneous branches of the spinal nerves.
Effect of Glycyrrhizin on Lysosomes Labilization by Phospholipase A2
Authors: Shiki Yasuko , Ishikawa Yo , Shirai Kohji , Saito Yasushi , Yoshida Sho
Published: November 2004

The influence of glycyrrhizin on the effect of phospholipase A2 on lysosomes was studied. Treatment of rat liver lysosomes with venom phospholipase A2 caused release of acid phosphatase. This release of acid phosphatase was inhibited by 0.1 mM glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin also inhibited acid phospholiase A2 with pH optimum of 4.5, which is thought to be present in the lysosomal membrane.

These results suggests that glycyrrhizin stabilizes lysosomes by inhibiting phospholipase A2 activity in the lysosomal membrane.
Effects of Hachimijiogan, Tokishakuyakusan and Keishibukuryogan on Estrogen and Progesterone Secretions by Rat Preovulatory Follicles
Authors: Usuki Satoshi
Published: November 2004

Ovaries of rats 48 hours after injection of 10 IU PMS when 27 days old were incubated or perifused with NIH-LH, Hachimijiogan (TJ-7), Tokishakuyakusan (TJ-23) and Keishibukuryogan (TJ-25).

TJ-7, TJ-23 and TJ-25 decreased estradiol-17 β(E2) and LH effects on progesterone secretions, while they increased progesterone in media and LH effects on E2 secretions.

These results suggest that TJ-7, TJ-23 and TJ-25 stimulates preovulatory follicles to secrete progesterone but to suppress E2 secretions. Furthermore, it is indicated their combination treatment with LH multiplies the sole effect of LH on E2 secretions but suppresses LH effects on progesterone.
Tension Headache Treated by Anti-Inflammatory Drug Injected into GB 20 Acupuncture Point
Authors: Sternfeld M. , Finkelstein Y. , Hai E. , Hod I.
Published: November 2004

The anti-inflammatory drug Voltaren (0-(36-dichlorophenyl)-amino acetate) is a relatively new substance in the systemic treatment of various pain inducing diseases related to the musculoskeletal elements. In order to achieve effective results, relatively high dosage, applied P.O.P.R. or I.M. should be used for prolonged periods. The acupuncture methods presented the eastern minded western physician with a detailed list of trigger points which may have abrogated certain painful symptoms when appropriately used by acupuncture point GB 20 for the injection of Voltaren, in an attempt to relieve stable and prolonged tension headaches, has been considered. Thus, acceptable and combined eastern-western treatment method, if found successful, may be evolved. GB 20 point has been selected because of its effective influence among others, on tension headaches, a highly common and most distressing syndrome poorly treated by conventional approaches in most clinics.
Effect of Ba-wei-di-huang-wan (Hachimi-jio-gan) on Thymidine Kinase and its Isozyme Activities in the Prostate Gland in Rats
Authors: Sakamoto S. , Kudo H. , Kawasaki T. , Kasahara N. , Okamoto R.
Published: November 2004

Ba-wei-di-huang-wan (Hachimi-jio-gan, TJ-7) has been frequently used for the treatment of sterilitas virilis, prostatic disorders, etc. The Hormonal effects of TJ-7 were studied using thymidine kinase (TK), an enzyme that catalyzes the phosphorylation of thymidine via the pyrimidine salvage pathway. TH isozyme activity increase in rapidly proliferating tissues. TJ-7 may act as a weak androgen and enhance prostatic TK and in particular, a specific TK isozy activity. and also as an anti-androgen and reduce prostatic TK activity in the presence of androgen in immature rats.
Effects of Japanese Kampo Medicine on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Function in Women with Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Koyama Takao , Ohara Motohiro , Ichimura Mikio , Saito Motoi
Published: November 2004

Twenty-five women who were suffering with either amenorrhea, anovulatory cycle or luteal phase dysfunction were treated with TJ-23 and TJ-106 (Japanese Kampo medicine) orally for 10 to 30 weeks. Blood was taken every two weeks prior to and during treatment and serum levels of LH, FSH, prolactin, E2, progesterone (P) and testosterone was assayed. Premarin test and LH-RH test were examined prior to and during treatment. Of 7 women who were suffering with amenorrhea TJ-23 treatment brought about menstruation in 4 women; 3 were ovulated and TJ-106 brought about menstruation in 3 women; 2 were ovulated. Of 4 women with anovulatory cycle TJ-23 or TJ-106 treatment brought about ovulation in 2 women. Of 10 women with luteal phase dysfunction TJ-23 treatment brought about normal midluteal P levels in 7 women; 4 among them were pregnant, and TJ-106 brought about normal P levels in 6 women; one of them was pregnant. Improvement of hypothalamic-pituitary function was suggested during treatment by Premarin test and LH-RH test. These evidences infer that TJ-23 and TJ-106 may exert their effect on hypothalamic-pituitary area and may activate ovarian function; however, direct effect on ovary and factors except endocrine mechanism may not be excluded.
Ear Acupuncture Using Semi-Permanent Needles: Acceptability, Prospects and Problems in Nigeria
Authors: Umeh Beatrice
Published: November 2004

Ear acupuncture performed with indwelling auricular semi-permanent (ASP) needles, was used for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and stiffness in 55 Nigerians. The male patients were initially reluctant to have an ASP needle stuck in their auricle, because they feared that the needle would attract embarrassing comments. No female objected to the use of these needles. The longest time an ASP needle remained in situ was 28 days (in a male), while the shortest time was 2 days. There was no associated ear lobe infection or scarification. All seventeen patients with acute torticollis had significant relief of pain and stiffness within 24 hours, scoring less that 25% (residual pain) on the visual analogue scale (VAS). Contrary to speculations auriculo acutherapy using the indwelling needles is acceptable to the Nigerian (male and female). The tropical weather does not necessarily predispose to infection at the site of needle insertion, provided the area is kept dry. The technique is useful for the relief of musculoskeletal pain and stiffness, and permits the patient to continue self acutherapy at home without the need to return to the clinic. However, these needles are disposable and has to be imported. There is therefore the problem of availability.
Tibetan Medicine Part III: Pulse Diagnosis in Tibetan Medicine
Authors: Steiner R. Prasaad
Published: November 2004

No abstract recieved.
Effect of Acupuncture on Immunoglobulins of Serum, Saliva and Gingival Sulcus Fluid
Authors: Yang Mabel Mei Po , Ng Kevin Kin Wai , Zeng Huan Long , Kwok John Shiu Lun
Published: November 2004

The present research is a preliminary investigation on the changes of immunoglobulins in serum saliva and gingival sulcus fluid in response to acute and chronic acupuncture stimulation in 70 volunteers. The acute effect of acupuncture showed that 30 minutes and 24 hours after acupuncture treatment saliva IgA levels were significantly increased in those who had previous low levels of IgA, but decreased in those who had previous high levels. When acupuncture was given daily for 2 weeks, the saliva IgA level was significantly increased, about 20% higher than that of the initial value. The IgG levels in serum and gingival sulcus fluid were decreased at 30 minutes after acupuncture treatment. On the other hand, chronic acupuncture stimulation (daily for 7–10 days) significantly increased IgG levels in both serum and gingival sulcus fluid. The regulatory effect of acupuncture on the immunological function of body defense system is discussed.
Singular Point, Organizing Center and Acupuncture Point
Authors: Shang Cheng
Published: November 2004

A hypothesis is proposed on the nature of acupuncture point and organizing center, the role of meridian system in growth regulation, and the mechanism of acupuncture. Both organizing centers and acupuncture points have low electric resistance. The low electric resistance is related to the distribution of gap junction and thus intercellular communication. Some acupuncture points may be organizing centers. The meridian system is important in coordination and regulation of morphogenesis. The properties of organizing centers and acupuncture points can be explained in view of singular point. Coupling and oscillation may underlie the mechanism of acupuncture as well as growth regulation.
Analysis and Processing of Chinese Herbal Drugs VIII: The Study of Sophorae Floe
Authors: Liu I.M. , Sheu S.J.
Published: November 2004

The quantities of active constituents in commercially avaliable Sophora japonica L. (huai-hua) and its processed samples were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography. Rutin, quercetin, sophoricoside, sophorabioside and genistein were found. Sophora flower buds (huai-mi) contained a great deal of rutin, while the immature fruits (huai-chiao) contained sophoricoside and sophorabioside. When Sophora flower bud was stir-fried for short periods using low heat, the extracted rate of rutin and quercetin increased slightly, decreasing with longer cooking periods at higher temperatures. When stir-fried with vinegar, it quickly blackened, but when cooked with honey, it changed very little. Immature Sophora fruit, however, exhibits less variation in its active constituents after processing. All huai-hua processed samples give forth a pronounced aroma and could be more easily extracted with water than that of the unprocessed herbs.
Hachimijiogan Treatment is Effective in the Management of Infertile Women with Hyperprolactinemia or Bromocriptine-resistant Hyperprolactinemia
Authors: Usuki Satoshi , Usuki Yoshie
Published: November 2004

Twenty-seven infertile women with hyperprolactinemia were treated with Hachimijiogan (5.0 to 10.0 g/day). Chinese herbal medicine. In 15 out of 18 patients, who were treated with Hachimijiogan, the serum prolactin levels dropped to 19.4±10.5 ng/ml during Hachimijogan treatment, and the levels in 8 patients remained essentially unchanged during 6 months after the cessation of Hachimijiogan treatment. Three patients with 100 to 300 ng/ml did not drop to the level below 30 ng/ml. Four of 6 patients with amenorrhea ovulated. Eleven patients conceived and delivered normally. The hormonal profiles during or after pregnancy were normal. These results indicate that Hachimijiogan is a new safe treatment for hyperprolactinemic women.
Radioprotective Effect of Ganoderma Lucidum (Leyss, ex. Fr.) Karst after X-ray Irradiation in Mice
Authors: Hsu Hsue-Yin , Lian Shi-Long , Lin Chun-Ching
Published: November 2004

Six to seven week old male mice of ICR strain were exposed to 500 or 650 cGy of X-ray during experiments to determine if Ganoderma lucidumcould be a factor in modification of radiation damage. Continuous intraperitoneal injection of the extract from Ganoderma lucidum before of after irradiation of 500 or 650 cGy of X-ray was found to improve the 30-day survival fractions of ICR mice, but wasn't significant by statistical analysis. The administration also enhanced the recoveries of the body weights and increased the recovery of hemograms of irradiated mice from radiation damage by injecting before or after radiation exposure, especially for the treatment of 500 cGy irradiation. The 10-day CFUs was significantly higher for Ganoderma lucidum treated groups than for untreated groups. However, the differences of radioprotective effect between the X-ray irradiated groups with Ganoderma lucidum pretreated and post-treated were not significant (p>0.05).
Endothelin-1 Levels are not Influenced by Tokishakuyakusan and Keishibukuryogan Treatment in Women
Authors: Usuki Satoshi
Published: November 2004

The effect of Tokishakuyakusan (TS) or Keishibukuryogan (KB) on endothelin-1 (ET-1), a newly identified peptide, in plasma and amniotic fluid from TS- or KB-treated women or normal pregrant women following TS or KB treatment was studied during the menstrual cycle, gestation, delivery and the post-partum period. ET-1 levels during and/or after TS or KB treatment had no significant changes when compared with those in TS- or KB- untreated women. These results suggest that TS or KB has no effects on the ET-1 level during the menstrual cycle, gestation and the post-partum period.
The Pharmacological and Pathological Studies on Taiwan Folk Medicine (VI): The Effects of Elephantopus scaber subsp. oblanceolata, E. mollis and Pseudoelephantopus spicatus
Authors: Lin Chun-Ching , Yen Ming-Hong , Chiu Hui-Fen
Published: November 2004

The liver protective effect of Elephantopus scaber subsp. oblanceolata, E. mollis and Pseudoelephantopus spicatus on CCL 4 induced hepatotoxicity has been determined by liver enzyme functional test and pathological studies. As the result indicatep, the acute increase of serum transaminase (SGOT and SGPT level which was caused by CCL 4 administration (3.0ml/kg, s.c.) can be significantly reduced when treating with E. scaber subsp. oblanceolata( p < 0.001), E. mollis( p < 0.01), P. spicatus( p < 0.01). The hepatic fatty metamorphosis and necrosis of central lobule were obviously improved by treating with E. scaber subsp. oblanceolata and E. mollis, while treated with P. spicatus demonstrated only a moderate protective effect. All pharmacological and pathological effects of these three crude drugs were compared with Bupleurum chinense which has been reported previously as a treatment criteria.
Blended Effects of Herbal Components of Tokishakuyakusan on Somatomedin C/Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Level in Rat Corpus Luteum
Authors: Usuki Satoshi
Published: November 2004

The effect of herbal components of Tokishakuyakusan on somatomedin C/insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1) level in medium from rat corpora lutea incubated in vitro was examined. Hoelen + peony root + Japanese angelica root, hoelen + peony root, hoelen + Japanese angelica root or peony root + Japanese angelica root decreased the IGF-1 level. The data suggest that constituent herbal components of Tokishakuyakusan regulate the IGF-1 level by rat corpora lutea.
Effects of Hachimijiogan, Tokishakuyakusan, Keishibukuryogan, Ninjinto and Unkeito on Estrogen and Progesterone Secretion in Preovulatory Follicles Incubated In Vitro
Authors: Usuki Satoshi
Published: November 2004

Ovarian follicles, removed from 10-week old rats at 1630 hours diestrus-2, 1100 and 2300 hours proestrus, were incubated for 120 minutes with various doses of Hachimijiogan (HJ), Tokishakuyakusan (TS), Keishibukuryogan (KB), Ninjinto (NT) and Unkeito (UT). The estradiol-17β( E 2) and progesterone concentrations in the incubation medium were measured. The concentrations of E 2 were significantly decreased with TS and KB by growing follicles and with HJ, TS and KB by preovulatory follicles before a LH surge. In contrast, the levels of progesterone were significantly increased with HJ, TS, KB and UT by preovulatory follicles before a LH surge. These results suggest that HJ, TS, KB or UT stimulates preovulatory follicles before a LH surge to secrete progesterone, but TS or KB suppresses E 2 secretion by growing preovulatory follicles before a LH surge.
Effect of Paeoniflorin, Glycyrrhizin and Glycyrrhetic acid on Ovarian Androgen Production
Authors: Takeuchi Toru , Nishii Osamu , Okamura Takashi , Yaginuma Tsutomu
Published: November 2004

We have shown that traditional herbal medicine, Shakuyaku-Kanzo-To consisted of Shakuyaku and Kanzo decreased serum testosterone levels in woman and rat. Therefore, paeoniflorin and glycyrrhizin, a main component of Shakuyaku and Kanzo, respectively, and glycyrrhetic acid, a metabolite of glycyrrhizin in vivo, were investigated for the steroid production in the rat ovary on the morning of proestrus. The homogenized tissues of one ovary were incubated in the Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium (pH 7.5) with 100 μg/ml of paeoniflorin, glycyrrhetic acid and glycyrrhizin and the medium only (the control) at 37°C for 270 min. After the centrifugation, the concentrations of Δ4-androstenedione, testosterone and estradiol in the supernatants were determined by RIA. The production of the hormones expressed by [concentration x supernatant volume/ weight of the ovary] was compared to the control. Paeoniflorin, glycyrrhetic acid and glycyrrhizin decreased significantly the testosterone production but did not change that of Δ4-androstenedione and estradiol. Testosterone/ Δ4-androstenedione production ratio was lowered significantly by paeoniflorin, glycyrrhetic acid and glycyrrhizin. Estradiol/testosterone production ratio was increased significantly by glycyrrhetic acid and not changed by paeoniflorin and glycyrrhizin. These results suggest that paeoniflorin, glycyrrhetic acid and glycyrrhizin affect the conversion between Δ4-androstenedione and testosterone to inhibit testosterone synthesis and stimulate the aromatase activity to promote estradiol synthesis by the direct action on the rat proestrous ovary.
WHO and The Development of Acupuncture Nomenclature: Overcoming a Tower of Babel
Authors: Akerele Olayiwola
Published: November 2004

At present, WHO does not have an official policy on acupuncture. The Organization's policies are usually developed after a debate has taken place on a particular health issue. There has not yet been a debate on acupuncture. This paper reviews WHO's efforts to produce a standard acupuncture nomenclature as a first step towards ensuring that a debate on acupuncture takes place in an atmosphere of greater understanding of the contribution that acupuncture can make in the delivery of health care. Activities that the programme for traditional medicine hopes to implement in the coming years are outlined.
Cytotoxic Activities of Tanshinones Against Human Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Wu Wu-Lung , Chang Wen-Liang , Chen Chia-Fu
Published: November 2004

Fifteen tanshinone analogues isolated from the chloroform extract of Danshen roots (Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix) by chromatographic procedures were tested for their cytotoxic activities against KB, Hela, Colo-205 and Hep-2 carcinoma cell lines. Several of them were effective at concentrations below 1 μg/ml concentrations. Tanshinone analogues with either hydroxy substitutions or olefinic feature in ring A demonstrated higher biologic activities. Analysis of structure-activity relationship indicate that the basic requirement for activity is the presence of a furano-o-naphthoquinone in the molecule. Compounds which lack an intact furan ring were found to be inactive. It is suggested that the planar phenanthrene ring of the tanshinones may be essential for interaction with DNA molecule whereas the furano-o-quinone moiety could be responsible for the production of reactive free radicals in the close vicinity of the bases to cause DNA damage.
Effects of Hachimijiogan on Dopamine, Serotonin and Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide in Plasma and Hypothalamus in Sulpiride – Induced Hyperprolactinemic Rats
Authors: Usuki Satoshi , Ichikawa Yoshihito
Published: November 2004

Effect of Hachimijiogan (HJ) on dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) was examined in plasma and hypothalamic tissue of sulpiride-induced hyperprolactinemic rats (SHR). Similar to bromocriptine (BR), HJ, in combination with sulpiride, suppressed plasma prolactin levels raised by sulpiride alone. Furthermore, HJ, together with sulpiride, increased plasma DA levels decreased by sulpiride alone, while 5-HT in plasma was increased by sulpiride and HJ, individually or in combination. However, plasma VIP levels were under detection limits on some occasions after HJ treatment. Successively, DA, 5-HT and VIP levels in the hypothalamus were determined. Similar ot the effect caused by BR, DA and 5-HT levels in the hypothalamic tissue reduced by sulpiride alone were also significantly increased by HJ together with sulpiride, while VIP levels were sometimes under detection levels with or without HJ. These results suggest that HJ stimulates the hypothalamus to increase DA and 5-HT in SHR, providing evidence for the clinical efficiency of HJ in combating hyperprolactinemia. The effect of HJ on VIP in plasma or hypothalamic tissue is, however, questionable.
A Proposal of Ovarian ERAANPS (Endothelin-Renin-Angiotensin-Atrial Natriuretic Peptide System) and Effects of Tokishakuyakusan, Keishibukuryogan, Shakuyakukanzoto and Unkeito on the ERAANPS
Authors: Usuki Satoshi , Tanaka Junko , Kawakura Yumiko , Usuki Yoshie
Published: November 2004

We have previously shown the presence in a high concentration of endothelin-l (ET) in the corpus luteum and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and binding sites for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in the ovarian follicle. The present study was undertaken to identify the existence of ET, renin, angiotensin II and the binding site for ANP in the ovary at proestrus and examine in vivo the effects of herbal medicines [Tokishakuyakusan (TS), Keishibukuryogan (KB), Shakuyakukanzoto (SK) and Unkeito (UT)] on them. ET, all components of RAS and binding sites for ANP were found at high levels in the ovary. TS, KB, SK and UT decreased the ET levels in ovary, while components of RAS and binding sites for ANP have the propensity to increase. However, ET, renin, angiotensin II and ANP levels in plasma were not at all affected before and after treatment with TS, KB, SK or UT. Taken together with previous observations showing the existence of ET, RAS and the binding site for ANP in the ovary, we propose here the ERAANPS (endothelin-renin-angiotensin-ANP system) in the ovary as a functional regulator. Further, these results suggest that TS, KB, SK or UT may regulate the ovarian ERAANPS.
Inhibitory Effect of Ginsenosides on Migration of Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Koyama Noriyuki , Morisaki Nobuhiro , Saito Yasushi , Yoshida Sho
Published: November 2004

Migration of arterial smooth muscle cells (SMC) in the arterial wall plays an important role in the formation of intimal thickening of atherosclerotic lesions. In this study, we examined the effect of ginsenosides on SMC migration induced by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and SMC-derived migration factor (SDMF). Ginsenosides had inhibitory effects on SMC migration and the striking effects were observed with ginsenoside-Rb2 and -Rc in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that the administration of ginsenosides on the patients may prevent intimal thickening, in part, by inhibiting SMC migration in the arterial wall.
Immunomodulatory Activity of Various Fractions Derived from Physalis angulata L Extract
Authors: Lin Yee-Shin , Chiang Hsuch-Ching , Kan Woei-Song , Hone Emily , Shih Shyh-Jen , Won Mei-Hui
Published: November 2004

The immunomodulatory effects of Physalis angulata L. extract fraction VII (PA-VII), PA-VII-A, PA-VII-B and PA-VII-C were investigated in this study. The results showed that PA-VII and PA-VII-C strongly enhanced blastogenesis response, PA-VII-B had moderate activity, and PA-VII-A exerted only slight effect on cell proliferation. A synergistic effect was observed when the suboptimal dosage of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was added to the culture. Furthermore, PA-VII and PA-VII-C possessed stimulatory activity on B cells and less effect on T cells. The antibody responses were also augmented by PA-VII, PA-VII-B and PA-VII-C, but not by PA-VII-A. The enhancement of antibody response could be observed both in BALB/c and C3H/HeJ mice.
Pharmacological and Pathological Studies on Taiwan Folk Medicine (IX): The Hepatoprotective Effect of the Methanolic Extract from Echinops Grijisii
Authors: Lin Chun-Ching , Lin Cheng-Hung
Published: November 2004

In order to isolate the main hepatoprotective component of Echinops grijisii, the crude drug was extracted with methanol and subjected to continuous extractions using n-hexane chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. The hepatoprotective studies of each fraction from the methanol extract of E. grijisii was conducted in Wistar albino rats with CC14-induced liver damage. Hepatoprotective activity was evaluated in terms of the modification of serum transaminase values such as SGOT and SGPT, and histopathological changes of liver biopsy. The results indicated that the main hepatoprotective component was concentrated in n-butanol and aqueous fractions.
Bioelectrochemical Oscillations in Signal Transduction and Acupuncture — An Emerging Paradigm
Authors: Shang Cheng
Published: November 2004

Several converging points from recent research results on cellular signal transduction, pattern formation, bioelectromagnetism and acupuncture are reviewed. These converging points indicate the general importance of bioelectrochemical oscillations in morphogenesis and physiology: An organism is not only a system of molecules and cells, but also a system of oscillations. These oscillations precede the morphological changes in development or pathology. Converging discoveries and hypotheses in different fields, and a perspective on their potential application in biomedicine are also discussed in this article.
Suppression of Spontaneous Development of Uterine Adenomyosis and Mammary Hyperplastic Alveolar Nodules by Chinese Herbal Medicines in Mice
Authors: Mori Takao , Sakamoto Shinobu , Matsuda Manabu , Kyokuwa Miho , Namiki Hideo , Kuwa Katsuhiko , Kawashima Seiichiro , Nagasawa Miroshi
Published: November 2004

The effects of traditional Chinese herbal remedies, Shakuyaku-kanzo-to (SKT) and Hachimi-jiou-gan (HJG), on the spontaneous development of uterine adenomyosis and mammary hyperplastic alveolar nodules (HAN) were examined in an experimental animal model using SHN strain of mice. Female mice were provided with the chow containing 1% of SKT of HJG during 25-150 days of age. At 150 days of age, SKT treatment showed significantly lower incidence of adenomyosis, and HJG treatment resulted in a significantly lower incidence of HAN when compared to a control chow containing no medicines. Long-term exposure to these herbal medicines affected little serum prolactin (PRL) level, estrous cycle, food intake and body growth. Thus, the present mouse data suggest that the oral administration of these herbal medicines is a useful tool for the treatment of uterine adenomyosis or mammary disorder such as cystic mastitis.
Protective and Therapeutic Effects of Ban-zhi-lian on Hepatotoxin-induced Liver Injuries
Authors: Lin Song-chow , Lin Chun-ching , Lin Yun-ho , Chen Ching-hsein
Published: November 2004

The hepatoprotective effect of Ban-zhi-lian was investigated in three kinds of experimental models. The animals were treated with Ban-zhi-lian (300 mg/kg, p.o.) at 2, 4, and 10 hours after carbon tetrachloride (32l/kg, i.p.), acetaminophen (600 mg/kg, i.p.), and β-D-galactosamine (188 mg/kg, i.p.) administration. Significant protective effects from these hepatotoxins were expressed. This protection was evidenced by comparing the serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), and histopathologic examination in animals treated and untreated with Ban-zhi-lian. Serum enzyme activities were significantly lower in Ban-zhi-lian-treated groups. In the histopathologic observation, liver damage induced by three hepatotoxins was markedly improved in Ban-zhi-lian treated animals. These results demonstrated that Ban-zhi-lian has a protective effect against experimental liver damage induced by various hepatotoxins.
Effect of Commiphora Molmol (Oleo-gum-resin) on the Cytological and Biochemical Changes Induced by Cyclophosphamide in Mice
Authors: AI-Harbi M.M. , Qureshi S. , Ahmed M.M. , Rafatullah S. , Shah A.H.
Published: November 2004

The anticlastogenic and biochemical potentials of Commiphora molmol were studied in Swiss albino mice treated with cyclophosphamide (CP). The C. molmol treatment (125-500 mg/kg) showed no mutagenicity. It caused a highly significant and dose-dependent mitodepressant effect in the femoral cells and reduction of RNA levels in hepatic cells as compared with the control. CP treatment showed significant increase in the frequency of micronuclei, cytotoxicity and reduction in the contents of nucleic acids and proteins. Pretreatment with C. molmol could neither alter the biochemical and cytological effects of CP nor show any additive effect of both treatments.
Effects of Acupuncture and Moxibustion on Intestinal Motility in Mice
Authors: Iwa Masahiro , Sakita Masakazu
Published: November 2004

To study the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on intestinal motility, the distance of intra-intestinal movement of a carbon solution injected into the stomach of a mouse was evaluated. Intestinal motility was also evaluated using several drugs to accelerate or reduce intestinal motility. Our results indicate that intestinal peristalsis was accelerated significantly by acupuncture at the abdomen, but suppressed by moxibustion. The intestinal peristalsis acceleration by vagostigmin was reduced significantly by both acupuncture and moxibustion, while the reduction of intestinal peristalsis by atropin was accelerated significantly. However, no remarkable changes of intestinal peristalsis were observed with treatment by acupuncture and moxibustion after reduction by epinephrine.
Immunopharmacological Studies of Low Molecular Weight Polysaccharide from Angelica Sinensis
Authors: Choy Y. M. , Leung K. N. , Cho C. S. , Wong C. K. , Pang P. K. T.
Published: November 2004

A low molecular weight polysaccharide has been isolated from the rhizome of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Umbelliferaer). It has a molecular weight of approximately 3,000 and consists of protein (4.73%) and carbohydrate (85.85%) of which 5.2% is uronic acid. It shows strong anti-tumor activity on Ehrlich Ascites tumor bearing mice. It also exhibits immunostimulating activities, both in vitro and in vivo.
Effects of Acupuncture on Blood Pressure and Plasma Renin Activity in Two-Kidney One Clip Goldblatt Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Lee Ho Sub , Kim Jung Yoo
Published: November 2004

Shih-Hsüan [Sipseon(EX-UE-11)] are Curious loci lying outside of the meridians on the tips of each finger. These loci have long been the acupuncture sites for the treatment of cardiovascular disease in oriental medicine. Alterations in the renin-angiotensin system have been considered as the pathophysiological basis of the origin and/or maintenance of hypertension. Activation of the plasma or tissue renin-angiotensin system may be one of the cause of hypertension. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the effects of acupuncture on blood pressure and plasma renin activity. Acupuncture was applied on the EX-UE-11 of two-kidney one clip Goldblatt hypertensive rats. Both the systolic blood pressure and the plasma renin activity decreased significantly after treatment with acupuncture on the EX-UE-11. In the sham-operated and control rats, the procedure influenced the parameters without significant changes. The results suggest that the suppressive hemodynamic effect of acupuncture on the EX-UE-11 may be related to changes in plasma renin activity.
Improved Isolated Heart Contractility and Mitochondrial Oxidation after Chronic Treatment with Panax ginseng in Rats
Authors: Toh H. T.
Published: November 2004

Heart mitochondria freshly isolated from ginseng treated rats respired higher at ADP-induced, state 3 respiratory rates and with greater respiratory indices. These mitochondria were less susceptible to experimentally-induced functional impairment. Control heart mitochondria incubated with ginseng extract also showed that ginseng prevented mitochondria from incubation induced deterioration with NAD-linked substrates. Comparison of force of contraction of isolated, perfused and electrically paced hearts showed that deterioration of the force of heart contraction was consistently smaller throughout the experiment in hearts from ginseng treated rats. These results indicated that Panax ginseng was able to delay experimently induced heart mitochondrial impairment and muscle contraction deterioration.
Bu Ji (Hozai) for Treatment of Postoperative Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Horie Yoshiaki , Kato Kazuhiko , Kameoka Shingo , Hamano Kyoichi
Published: November 2004

We proposed that postgastrectomy cancer patients with organ deficit were xu zheng, or of deficient constitution, and administered bu ji or supplementary regimen to them. With alleviation of the symptoms, our diagnosis seemed correct from the traditional medicine perspertive. Interleukin 2 reactivity, natural killer activity , nutritional index and bone mineral indices also improved. Such results suggest that our diagnosis was also correct according to Western medical theory. In addition, nutrition seemed to have positive relationship with NK activity and bone mineral content. Therefore, administration of bu ji seemed useful to improve the quality of life of postoperative cancer patients.
Effects of Ganoderma Lucidum and Krestin on Cellular Immunocompetence in γ-Ray-irradiated Mice
Authors: Chen Wang-Chi , Hau Dou-Mong , Lee Shiuh-Sheng
Published: November 2004

The effects of Ganoderma lucidum (Gl) and Krestin (PSK) extracts on cellular immunocompetence, leukocyte counts and differential count in γ-irradiated mice were investigated in this study. ICR strain male mice were used and randomly divided into five groups. Group A is normal control. Group B, the experimental control, was treated with Gl. Group C, the radiation treatment control, was treated with whole body exposure to 4 Gy γ-irradiation (RT). Group D was treated with RT and Gl. Group E was treated with RT and PSK. The dosage of Gl was 400 mg/day/kg body weight and PSK was 500 mg/day/kg body weight. After irradiation, six mice from each group were sacrificed on day 7 and the other six on day 28. Cellular immunocompetence was measured by means of 3 H -thymidine incorporation with splenic cells stimulated through mitogens such as PHA, Con A and LPS. The results revealed that relative splenic weight in Groups D and E were higher than group C on day 28 after γ-irradiation, Group D was the highest in all the experimental groups. Leukocyte counts were decreased significantly in Groups D and E on day 7, the former was a little higher than the latter. Gl administration showed an increase in the leukocyte count in Group D on day 28. The blastogenic response of splenocytes to PHA and Con A in groups D and E were higher than in Group C on days 7 and 28. We suggested that Gl and PSK were effective in enhancing the recovery of cellular immunocompetence from γ-ray irradiation.
Unsei-in Inhibits Rheological Activity of Leukocytes: Mechanism of Action in Neutrophil-related Skin Diseases
Authors: lijima Shigeruko , Otsuka Fujio , Kikuchi Yuji
Published: November 2004

To investigate the efficacy of Unsei-in on skin diseases such as Behçet's disease, palmoplantar pustulosis and psoriasis vulgaris, the rheological activity of leukocytes as manifested by adhesiveness, deformability and aggregability was studied in vitro using a micropore filtration method. Unsei-in inhibited the rheological activity of leukocytes at a statistical significance of p < 0.01 in normal individuals whose leukocytes had been stimulated with N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP). It did not, however, inhibit the activity of cells that had not been stimulated by FMLP. In contrast, in Behçet's disease, Unsei-in inhibited rheological activity of non-stimulated leukocytes ( p < 0.01) but did not inhibit the rheological activity of FMLP-stimulated leukocytes. In a study using Ouren-gedoku-to and Shimotsu-to, the main constituents of Unsei-in, the latter inhibited the activity of FMLP-stimulated leukocytes in normal individuals ( p < 0.02). These results indicate that Unsei-in has an inhibitory effect on rheologically-activated neutrophils, which are involved in the healing mechanisms of the above skin diseases, and it also has a satisfactory effect in the form of a mixture of Shimotsu-to and Ouren-gedoku-to.
Delayed Cutaneous Hypersensitivity Reactions in Qigong (Chun Do Sun Bup) Trainees by Multitest Cell Mediated Immunity
Authors: Ryu Hoon , Mo Haeng Yoeng , Mo Gui Dal , Choi Byung Min , Jun Chang Duk , Seo Chae Moon , Kim Hyung-Min , Chung Hun-Taeg
Published: November 2004

To determine the difference of cellular immunity between a Qigong trainee group and a normal healthy group, skin tests for delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity (DCH) were carried out with ubiquitous seven antigens. The maximal antigen response time was faster in Qigong trainee group (24 hr) and the response antigen number was also higher in the Qigong trainee group (6 antigens) than in normal healthy person (48 hr and 4 antigens). Qigong trainee also had a larger induration diameter (5.14 mm) than normal healthy person (3.79 mm) at 24 hr. Our results represent the difference in cell mediated immunity (CMI) between Qigong trainees and normal healthy subjects.
Traditional Chinese Medicines Improve the Course of Refractory Leukemic Lymphoblastic Lymphoma and Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia: Two Case Reports
Authors: Hijikata Yasuyo , Kaneko Junzo , Xi Lu , Nasu Masao , Yamashita Shinya
Published: November 2004

A 34 year-old man with leukemic lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL), who could not tolerate chemotherapy due to its side effects, was diagnosed to have an acute febrile disease by a traditional Chinese medical doctor, Lu Gan Fu. Zixuedan, a traditional Chinese remedy for dissipation of pathogenic heat and detoxification that could reduce WBC count including leukemic cells below 1000/μl without intolerable side effects, was prescribed for treatment. A second case of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) was a 41 year-old female who also could not tolerate chemotherapy. In her fourth recurrence, she started Chinese medicine including modified zixuedan, which gave her transient improvement followed by aggravation. Intake of previously ineffective cyclophosphamide in combination with Chinese medicine led to a dramatic improvement.
Analysis of Fluorescence Spectra from Chinese Herbal Medicine for Male Infertility
Authors: Amano Toshiyasu , Kunimi Kazuto , Ohkawa Mitsuo
Published: November 2004

To clarify the contribution of Chinese herbal medicine to the treatment of male infertility, fluorescence spectra from Chinese herbal drugs at 500-700 nm with 488 nm excitation were investigated. The fluorescence spectra patterns from Hachimi-jio-gan, Gosha-jinki-gan and Hochu-ekki-to were similar to those from semen, seminal plasma and spermatozoa. Our previous report revealed that the concentration of spermatozoa correlated with the intensity of the emission peaks from spermatozoa, while sperm motility correlated with the emission peaks from spermatozoa and semen plasma. Thus, it was suggested that the components of these fluorescence productions in Chinese herbal medicine may contribute to clinical effects for male infertility.
Anti-inflammatory Activity of Taiwan Folk Medicine "Ham-Hong-Chho" in Rats
Authors: Chih Hwa-Woei , Lin Chun-Ching , Tang Kung-Sheng
Published: November 2004

"Ham-Hong-Chho" is a folk medicine in Taiwan, derived from the entire plants of Bidens pilosa L. var. minor (Blume) Sherff (Compositae), B. pilosa L. and B. chilensis DC. The anti-inflammatory effect of aqueous extracts of the three plants against paw edema induced by carrageenan and chronic arthritis induced by complete Freund's adjuvant were determined in rats. The results indicated that paw edema induced by carrageenan was significantly decreased by treatment with aqueous extracts (150 or 300 mg/kg) of all three plants ( p < 0.05) and that the effect of Bidens pilosa var. minor was the most potent. However, only extracts (500 mg/kg) of B. pilosa L. var. minor and B.pilosa L. significantly decreased the paw edema induced by complete Freund's adjuvant ( p < 0.05).
Superoxide Anion Scavenging Effect of Coumarins
Authors: Chang Wen-Shin , Lin Chun-Ching , Chuang Shu-Chuan , Chiang Hsuch-Ching
Published: November 2004

The superoxide scavenging effects of fifteen coumarins were tested on the xanthine-xanthine oxidase-cytochrome C system. The results showed that fraxetin(10) displayed the strongest activity, and its percent inhibition at 100, 10 and 1 μM were 100, 100 and 53.13% respectively. Esculetin(4) showed the second strongest activity resulting in percent inhibition at 100 and 10 μM were 87.16 and 52.38% respectively. Both fraxetin(10) and esculetin(4) have been isolated from the plant, Fraxinus bungeana DC (Oleaceae) which has been used in folk medicine as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory medicine. It seems that two phenolic hydroxy groups in the ortho position in the molecule of coumarins play an important role in scavenging activity.