MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine' source. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 06:31:44 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697039&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F511%3Frss%3D1 The US Institute of Medical sponsors a "Summit on Integrative Medicine and the Health of the Public" on February 25–27, 2009. A prestigious body of speakers and attendees created a dynamic conference in which the content and discussions provided vital information for transforming the US health care system. Topics included: patient-centered care, the scientific basis of integrative medicine, health care financing reform and value-driven care, and mind-body relationships and health. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697039 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697038&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F501%3Frss%3D1 It is now accepted that an overwhelming inflammatory response is the cause of human deaths from avian H5N1 influenza infection. With this in mind we sought to examine the literature for examples of complementary and alternative medicines that reduce inflammation, and to place the results of this search in the context of our own work in a mouse model of influenza disease, using a pharmaceutical agent with anti-inflammatory properties. Two Chinese herbs, Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui) and Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), have been recently shown to protect mice during lethal experimental sepsis via inhibition of the novel inflammatory cytokine High Mobility Group Box 1 protein (HMGB1). Biochanin A, a ligand of the peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPAR) alpha and gamma and the active ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697038 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697037&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F493%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, annual utilization of acupuncture and/or moxibustion was estimated at more than 6%, and the percentage of those with a lifetime experience was ~25%, thus demonstrating the relatively higher utilization of the remedy in Japan over utilization in western countries. Application of the treatment for musculoskeletal problems and utilization by the older population were specific standouts of the use of acupuncture and/or moxibustion in Japan. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697037 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697036&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F487%3Frss%3D1 A growing number of physicians study complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Limited data are available on perspectives of physicians with dual training in conventional medicine and CAM, on issues of communication and collaboration with CAM practitioners (CAMPs). Questionnaires were administered to primary care physicians employed in the largest health maintenance organization (HMO) in Israel and to MD and non-MD CAM practitioners employed by a CAM-related agency of the same HMO. Data for statistical analysis were available from 333 primary care physicians (PCPs) and 241 CAM practitioners. Thirty-one of the 241 CAMPs were dual-trained physicians employed in a CAM-related agency as practitioners and/or triage-consultants. Dual trained physicians and CAMPs shared similar attitudes and ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697036 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697035&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F477%3Frss%3D1 To explore pregnant women's use, attitudes, knowledge and beliefs of complementary and alternative drugs (CADs) defined as products manufactured from herbs or with a natural origin. A preliminary survey was conducted among 172 pregnant women in their third trimester of pregnancy, consecutively recruited in two obstetrical settings; 15 women were randomly selected to compute a test-to-retest analysis. Response rate was 87.2%. Test-to-retest analysis showed a questionnaire's reproducibility exceeding a K-value of 0.7 for all items. Mean age was 32.4 ± 0.4 years; most women were nulliparae (62.7%). The majority of subjects (68%) declared to have used one or more CADs during their lifetime; 48% of pregnant women reported taking at least one CAD previously and during the current pregnanc... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697035 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697034&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F471%3Frss%3D1 The ancient Greek medical theory based on balance or imbalance of humors disappeared in the western world, but does survive elsewhere. Is this survival related to a certain degree of health care efficiency? We explored this hypothesis through a study of classical Greco-Arab medicine in Mauritania. Modern general practitioners evaluated the safety and effectiveness of classical Arabic medicine in a Mauritanian traditional clinic, with a prognosis/follow-up method allowing the following comparisons: (i) actual patient progress (clinical outcome) compared with what the traditional ‘tabib’ had anticipated (= prognostic ability) and (ii) patient progress compared with what could be hoped for if the patient were treated by a modern physician in the same neighborhood. The practice app... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697034 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697033&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F465%3Frss%3D1 Satureja khuzestanica is an endemic plant of Iran that is widely distributed in the Southern part of the country. It has antioxidant properties and thus it seems to be useful in diseases related to oxidative stress such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia. The present study investigates the effect of S. khuzestanica supplement in metabolic parameters of hyperlipidemic patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Twenty-one hyperlipidemic patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomized in a double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial to receive either S. khuzestanica (tablets contain 250 mg dried leaves) or placebo once a day for 60 days. Blood samples were obtained at baseline and at the end of the study. Samples were analyzed for levels of glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697033 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697032&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F459%3Frss%3D1 The effects of Wasabia japonica (WJ) were investigated in vitro and in vivo for their anti-oxidant and anti-hypercholesterolemic activities. It was found that the aqueous extracts of WJ leaves (WJL) had strong scavenging activities towards 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) free radicals in cell free systems. WJL also inhibited NO production and the expressions of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) mRNA and enzyme protein, determined by Griess reactions, RT-PCR or Western blotting respectively in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages cells. The anti-hypercholesterolemic effects of WJ diet were investigated in hypercholesterolemia rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups and were fed with either normal diet (Group 1), or diet containing 1%... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697032 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697031&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F447%3Frss%3D1 Traditional Japanese medicine uses the leaves of Kumaizasa bamboo extracted in hot water at 100°C. For this study, we developed a new, ‘vigorous’ extraction method involving steps at 100, 121 and 196°C. This procedure not only yielded greater amounts of extract but also with significant increase in immunostimulating activity, which induces activation of human natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages and potent induction of IL-2, IL-12 and IFN- in tumor bearing mice. The efficacy of the extract to facilitate phagocytosis and nitric oxide production by mouse peritoneal macrophages was determined and compared with that of 1,3-β-glucan. Anti-tumor activity was evaluated in vivo in several mouse tumor models (S-180, C38 and Meth-A). Oral administration of the extracts was... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697031 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697030&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F441%3Frss%3D1 Developing countries, where malaria is one of the most prevalent diseases, still rely on traditional medicine as a source for the treatment of this disease. For the present study, Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (fenugreek) were collected from Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India. The test plant has been used in India by traditional healers for the treatment of fever as well as other diseases. The active principle was extracted out in different solvent systems to assess the anti-plasmodial potential, with an aim that they can further be utilized to formulate drugs. In vitro anti-plasmodial assay of the extracted fractions of fenugreek leaves was carried out using laboratory adapted chloroquine sensitive and resistant Plasmodium falciparum isolates. Schizont maturation inhibition assay was adopted to ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697030 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697029&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F433%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, soybeans may prevent the weight loss and morphological disruption of the kidney associated with diabetes mellitus. Soybeans also may improve glycemic control. It seems likely that long-term control of blood glucose levels using a soybean diet could prevent the progression of diabetes mellitus, and therefore, nephropathy could be prevented. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697029 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697028&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F427%3Frss%3D1 We examined the in vitro anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activity of MRN-100, an iron-based compound derived from bivalent and tervalent ferrates. MRN-100 action against HIV-1 (SF strain) was tested in primary cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNC) by analyzing p24 antigen production and percent survival of MNC infected with HIV. MRN-100 at a concentration of 10% (v/v) inhibited HIV-1 replication in 11 out of 14 samples (79%). The percentage of suppression of p24 antigen was –12.3 to 100% at 10 days post-treatment. MRN-100 also exhibited a significant protective effect in the survival of HIV-1-infected MNC. MNC survival post-treatment was dose dependent, 70.4% ± 8.4, 83.6% ± 10.7 and 90% ± 11.4, at concentrations 2.5, 5 and 10% (v/v), respec... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697028 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:42 +0100 3697028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697027&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F425%3Frss%3D1 Experts and lay people alike can sometimes find it difficult to demarcate the absurd. Here I propose a set of criteria that may be helpful in achieving this in the realm of healthcare: falsifiability, plausibility and some hallmarks of pseudoscience. Applying this method is unlikely to be fool-proof but it might be a valuable aid in discriminating credible from incredible health claims. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697027 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:41 +0100 3697027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697026&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F419%3Frss%3D1 Complementary medicine is a formal method of health care in most countries of the ancient world. It is expected to become more widely integrated into the modern medical system, including the medical curriculum. Despite the perception of modern medicine as more efficacious, traditional medicine continues to be practiced. More than 70% of the developing world's population still depends primarily on the complementary and alternative systems of medicine (CAM). In rural areas, cultural beliefs and practices often lead to self-care, home remedies or consultation with traditional healers. Herbal medicine can be broadly classified into four basic systems as follows: Traditional Chinese Herbalism, Ayurvedic Herbalism, Western Herbalism—which originally came from Greece and Rome to Europe and ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697026 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:41 +0100 3697026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697025&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F409%3Frss%3D1 Use of massage therapy by the general public has increased substantially in recent years. In light of the popularity of massage therapy for stress reduction, a comprehensive review of the peer-reviewed literature is important to summarize the effectiveness of this modality on stress-reactive physiological measures. On-line databases were searched for articles relevant to both massage therapy and stress. Articles were included in this review if (i) the massage therapy account consisted of manipulation of soft tissues and was conducted by a trained therapist, and (ii) a dependent measure to evaluate physiological stress was reported. Hormonal and physical parameters are reviewed. A total of 25 studies met all inclusion criteria. A majority of studies employed a 20–30 min massage admini... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697025 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:41 +0100 3697025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697024&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F399%3Frss%3D1 The effect of practicing yoga for the management of type II Diabetes was assessed in this systematic review through searching related electronic databases and the grey literature to the end of May 2007 using Ovid. All randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) comparing yoga practice with other type of intervention or with regular practice or both, were included regardless of language or type of publication. Each study was assessed for quality by two independent reviewers. Mean difference was used for summarizing the effect of each study outcomes with 95% confidence intervals. Pooling of the studies did not take place due to the wide clinical variation between the studies. Publication bias was assessed by statistical methods. Five trials with 363 participants met the inclusion criteria w... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697024 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:41 +0100 3697024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3697023&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F4%2F397%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3697023 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:02:41 +0100 3697023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667826&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F391%3Frss%3D1 Canada is experiencing a growing interest in the use of alternative therapies and products particularly natural health products (NHP). In 1997, Canadians spent around C$ 2 billion on NHP. In an attempt to catch with this popularity of NHP use, Canadian researchers and administrators from academia, industry and government jointly established the Natural Health Product Research Society of Canada (NHPRS). Since its formation, NHPRS has been organizing an annual meeting which brings together world renowned researchers and experts in the area of NHP research. For 2008, the annual NHPRS meeting took place in Toronto from the 26th to 29th of March with a focus on ‘Science Across Borders: Global Natural Health Products Research’. The scientific program was spread into three days of ple... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667826 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667825&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F387%3Frss%3D1 Diabetes mellitus is accompanied by hormonal and neurochemical changes that can be associated with anxiety and depression. Both diabetes and depression negatively interact, in that depression leads to poor metabolic control and hyperglycemia exacerbates depression. We hypothesize one novel vanadium complex of vanadium-enriched Cordyceps sinensis (VECS), which is beneficial in preventing depression in diabetes, and influences the long-term course of glycemic control. Vanadium compounds have the ability to imitate the action of insulin, and this mimicry may have further favorable effects on the level of treatment satisfaction and mood. C. sinensis has an antidepressant-like activity, and attenuates the diabetes-induced increase in blood glucose concentrations. We suggest that the VECS may be... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667825 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667824&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F383%3Frss%3D1 We reported four cases in which auricular acupunctures on the ‘Shenmen’ and ‘Point Zero’ points successfully managed postoperative problematic behaviors of the three patients with dementia and the one patient postoperatively demonstrating an agitated behavior. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667824 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667823&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F375%3Frss%3D1 Despite major advances in pain management, cancer pain is managed poorly in 80% of the patients with cancer. Due to deleterious side effects of pharmacology therapy in these people, there is an urgent need for clinical trials of non-pharmacological interventions. To examine the effect of therapeutic touch (TT) on the pain and fatigue of the cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, a randomized and three-groups experimental study—experimental (TT), placebo (placebo TT), and control (usual care)—was carried out. Ninety patients undergoing chemotherapy, exhibiting pain and fatigue of cancer, were randomized into one of the three groups in the Cancer Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran, Iran. Pain and fatigue were measured and recorded by participants before and after the in... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667823 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667822&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F367%3Frss%3D1 Hochu-ekki-to is a traditional herbal (Kampo) medicine that has been shown to be effective for patients with Kikyo (delicate, easily fatigable, or hypersensitive) constitution. Previous case reports have suggested that this herbal drug was effective for a certain subgroup of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Hochu-ekki-to in the long-term management of Kikyo patients with AD. In this multicenter, double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 91 Kikyo patients with AD were enrolled. Kikyo condition was evaluated by a questionnaire scoring system. All patients continued their ordinary treatments (topical steroids, topical tacrolimus, emollients or oral antihistamines) before and after their protocol entry. Hochu-ekki-to or placebo was... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667822 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667821&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F359%3Frss%3D1 After Chiso brought acupuncture to Japan from Wu (China) in the sixth century, it has progressed in unique ways within the various historical milieus of the past 1500 years. Ishitsu-rei, the first medical law of Japan established in 701, explains the medical system of acupuncture in detail showing that acupuncture was being administered under the authorization of the national government. For the next 1200 years, acupuncture continued to be an important facet of public health in Japan. From the Azuchimomoyama through the Edo period, the knowledge exchange with China became active and people who studied in China developed new styles and techniques of acupuncture treatment and organized their own private schools or ryu-ha in Japan. In 1635, when the Edo government decided to close the country... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667821 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667820&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F351%3Frss%3D1 High morbidity and mortality associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are largely attributable to late stage diagnosis. Despite significant advances in therapeutic strategies, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer remains at about 50%. A chemopreventive approach may be an effective alternative or adjunct to current therapies. Previous studies have shown anti-tumor effects of isoflavones in several cancers, including oral cancer. However, their mechanisms of action are still unclear. We hypothesized that isoflavones inhibit multiple signaling pathways implicated in oral carcinogenesis. To address our hypothesis, we investigated the effects of three isoflavone derivatives, genistein, biochanin A and daidzein, on SCC15 and SCC25 squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. In cell pro... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667820 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667819&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F341%3Frss%3D1 Goal of this study was to evaluate effects of Mao-to on development of myocarditis induced by encephalomyocarditis (EMC) virus in mice. Mice were randomly divided into five groups. Group N included uninfected controls (n = 18), while group A, B and C underwent intraperitoneal injection of EMC virus. Group A was administered oral saline from day 0 to day 4. Group B was administered oral Mao-to (500 mg–1 kg–1 day–1) from day 0 to day 4. Group C was administered Mao-to from day 2 to day 6. Group D was administered Mao-to from day 5 to day 10. Treated mice were followed for survival rates during 2 weeks after infection. Body weight (BW) and organ weights including heart (HW), lungs, thymus and spleen were examined on days 4, 6 and 14. Survival rate of group C (36.4%) was sign... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667819 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667818&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F331%3Frss%3D1 In this study, the effect of Hochuekkito (HET), one of Kampo medicines, on cytokine secretion of intestinal epithelial cells was investigated. When murine normal colonic epithelial cell-line MCE301 cells were stimulated with HET, the contents of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) in the conditioned medium were significantly increased in dose- and time-dependent manners. The enhanced G-CSF gene transcription in MCE301 cells by the stimulation of HET was observed by RT-PCR. The enhanced G-CSF secretion by HET was also observed in C3H/HeJ mice-derived primary cultured colonic epithelial cells. When the HET was fractionated, only the polysaccharide fraction (F-5) enhanced the G-CSF secretion of MCE301 cells, and the activity of F-5 lost after the treatment of periodate that can degr... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667818 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667817&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F323%3Frss%3D1 The traditional medicine still plays an important role in the primary health care in Yemen. The current study represents the investigation of 16 selected plants, which were collected from different localities of Yemen. The plants were dried and extracted with two different solvents (methanol and hot water) to yield 34 crude extracts. The obtained extracts were tested for their antimicrobial activity against three Gram-positive bacteria, two Gram-negative bacteria, one yeast species and three multiresistant Staphylococcus strains using agar diffusion method, for their antioxidant activity using scavenging activity of DPPH radical method and for their cytotoxic activity using the neutral red uptake assay. In addition, a phytochemical screening of the methanolic extracts was done. Antibacteri... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667817 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667816&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F317%3Frss%3D1 The lipid lowering activity of Anthocephalus indicus (family Rubiaceae; Hindi name Kadamba) root extract has been studied in triton WR-1339 induced hyperlipidemia in rats. In this model, feeding with root extract (500 mg kg–1 b.w.) lowered plasma lipids and reactivated post-heparin lipolytic activity in hyperlipidemic rats. Furthermore, the root extract (50–500 µM) inhibited the generation of superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals, in both enzymic and non-enzymic systems, in vitro. The results of the present study demonstrated both lipid lowering and antioxidant activities in root extract of A. indicus, which could help prevention of hyperlipidemia and related diseases. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667816 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667815&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F307%3Frss%3D1 Total phenolic contents, antioxidant activity and chemical composition of propolis samples from three localities of Minas Gerais state (southeast Brazil) were determined. Total phenolic contents were determined by the Folin–Ciocalteau method, antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH, using BHT as reference, and chemical composition was analyzed by GC/MS. Propolis from Itapecerica and Paula Cândido municipalities were found to have high phenolic contents and pronounced antioxidant activity. From these extracts, 40 substances were identified, among them were simple phenylpropanoids, prenylated phenylpropanoids, sesqui- and diterpenoids. Quantitatively, the main constituent of both samples was allyl-3-prenylcinnamic acid. A sample from Virginópolis municipality had no det... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667815 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667814&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F303%3Frss%3D1 The WHO published a dictionary-type book entitled ‘WHO International Standard Terminologies on Traditional Medicine in the Western Pacific Region’ which has a total of 3259 technical terms which have been commonly used in traditional Chinese (TCM), Japanese (Kampo), Korean (TKM) and Vietnamese (TVM) medicines. In this comprehensive guide, each term has the English expression, the original Chinese character and a concise English definition. The book covers 3106 terms from basic theories, diagnostics, diseases, various therapeutics including acupuncture and moxibustion and even the English wording of 153 titles which are considered the most important traditional medical classics published in these four countries. A prominent feature of the compilation is the codification format t... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667814 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667813&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F295%3Frss%3D1 Many ethical concerns revolve around the four basic principles of research: merit and integrity, respect for human beings, weighting of risk–benefit and justice. These principles form the basis for any discussion concerning human research ethics and are applicable to all areas of research including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. World Health Organisation document, Guidelines for Clinical Research on Acupuncture, states that ‘consideration should be given to the different value systems that are involved in human rights such as social, cultural and historical issues’ and that ‘further studies should be conducted in relation to ethical issues involved in clinical research on acupuncture’. In addition to outlining the four basic principles, this paper wi... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667813 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667812&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F283%3Frss%3D1 The uses of traditional medicinal plants for primary health care have steadily increased worldwide in recent years. Scientists are in search of new phytochemicals that could be developed as useful anti-microbials for treatment of infectious diseases. Currently, out of 80% of pharmaceuticals derived from plants, very few are now being used as anti-microbials. Plants are rich in a wide variety of secondary metabolites that have found anti-microbial properties. This review highlights the current status of traditional medicine, its contribution to modern medicine, recent trends in the evaluation of anti-microbials with a special emphasis upon some tribal medicine, in vitro and in vivo experimental design for screening, and therapeutic efficacy in safety and human clinical trails for commercial... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667812 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667811&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F279%3Frss%3D1 Guaraná (Paullinia cupana H.B.K., Sapindaceae) is a rainforest vine that was domesticated in the Amazon for its caffeine-rich fruits. Guaraná has long been used as a tonic and to treat various disorders in Brazil and abroad and became a national soda in Brazil about a century ago. In the last two decades or so, guaraná has emerged as a key ingredient in various ‘sports’ and energy drinks as well as concoctions that allegedly boost one's libido. For some time, guaraná's high caffeine content was thought to be a detriment because of health concerns about excessive intake of caffeine-rich drinks. But it is precisely this quality, and the fact that it has a mysterious name and comes from an exotic land, that has propelled guaraná into a global bev... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667811 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667810&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F3%2F277%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667810 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:45:10 +0100 3667810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527600&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F271%3Frss%3D1 The World Summit of Harmonization on Traditional, Alternative and Complementary Medicine (TACM) was held in Lima, Peru, November 7–11, 2007, with almost 600 worldwide participants. This meeting was organized by Peruvian Medical College, the institution that affiliates and authorizes all physicians to practice medicine in Peru. The meeting included seven sections starting with an overview on the current status of the TACM. The second section included experiences from different countries on regulations and quality control in products and services used in the TACM. The worldwide experience of education and training in TACM was a very important part of the meeting in which speakers from Spain, Germany, Argentina, Italy, Brazil, Cuba and Peru shared their experience. The meeting included ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527600 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527599&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F265%3Frss%3D1 Despite recommendations that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) familiarization should be offered to UK medical students, in Wales little such teaching was offered. We decided to assess medical students’ knowledge of CAMs, perceived training needs in CAMs, their view of its role in the National Health Service (NHS) and current teaching given. Analysis of data from a questionnaire given to medical students and direct questioning of senior academic medical school staff in Cardiff and Swansea Medical Schools was carried out. The participants comprised 78 first year medical students in the undergraduate entry program in Cardiff and 58 first year medical students from the graduate entry program in Swansea. Senior academic medical school staff at Cardiff and Swansea Medical Schoo... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527599 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527598&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F259%3Frss%3D1 Warm-needling (also called thermo-acupuncture) is a combination of acupuncture and moxibustion. Due to the intense heat involved, there have been concerns over the biological safety of the acuneedles used in the treatment. This paper reports two phases of a safety test. For a preliminary test, we compared the temperature change patterns of stainless steel (SS304) needles and traditional gold alloy needles, which have been increasingly replaced by the former. To verify the effects of the presence of coating materials, the main test involved three different kinds of SS304: silicone-coated, salicylic acid-coated and non-coated needles. Each group of needles was tested for pH level, heavy metals and UV absorbance spectrum along with biological tests on the cytotoxicity and hemolysis of the nee... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527598 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527597&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F249%3Frss%3D1 Within rehabilitation settings, mental imagery helps to promote long-term recovery and facilitates compliance to rehabilitation exercises. Individuals who are able to effectively engage in imagery practice are likely to gain the most benefit from imagery training. Thus, a suitable imagery ability measurement tool for individuals with movement limitations is needed. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the Movement Imagery Questionnaire—Revised second version (MIQ-RS), and compare the results of this new version with Hall and Martin's (1997) MIQ-R. Three-hundred and twenty participants from a variety of sports and performance levels agreed to take part. Results showed the internal consistency and test–retest reliability of the MIQ-RS were satisfactory, the two-factor... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527597 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527596&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F239%3Frss%3D1 This study was undertaken to examine the efficacy of Pogostemon cablin, a well-known herb in Korean traditional medicine, on ROS-induced brain cell injury. Pogostemon cablin effectively protected human neuroglioma cell line A172 against both the necrotic and apoptotic cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The effect of Pogostemon cablin was dose dependent at concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 5 mg ml–1. Pogostemon cablin significantly prevented depletion of cellular ATP and activation of poly ADP-ribose polymerase induced by H2O2. The preservation of functional integrity of mitochondria upon the treatment of Pogostemon cablin was also confirmed by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide assay. Furthermore, Pogostemon cablin significantly prevented H2... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527596 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527595&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F233%3Frss%3D1 This study evaluated whether improvements in nicotine withdrawal symptoms (NWS), depression and anxiety are greater for body acupuncture than for sham acupuncture. Smoking volunteers from the public were randomized to receive six sessions of either real or sham acupuncture for 2 weeks. The primary outcome measure was NWS measured by the Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Score, and the secondary measures were scores on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Eighty volunteers were randomized into real acupuncture (n = 38) and sham acupuncture (n = 42) groups, of which 46 subjects (22 and 24 in the real and sham acupuncture groups, respectively) completed the treatment and the 2-week follow-up. An intention-to-treat analysis revealed that the NWS did not differ sign... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527595 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527594&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F227%3Frss%3D1 We explore the anti-microbial activity of urine specimens after the ingestion of a commercial cranberry preparation. Twenty subjects without urinary infection, off antibiotics and all supplements or vitamins were recruited. The study was conducted in two phases: in phase 1, subjects collected the first morning urine prior to ingesting 900 mg of cranberry and then at 2, 4 and 6 h. In phase 2, subjects collected urine on 2 consecutive days: on Day 1 no cranberry was ingested (control specimens), on Day 2, cranberry was ingested. The pH of all urine specimens were adjusted to the same pH as that of the first morning urine specimen. Aliquots of each specimen were independently inoculated with Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae or Candida albicans. After incubation, colony forming units/ml... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527594 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527593&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F219%3Frss%3D1 This article provides a brief comparison and discussion of Chinese and Chumash traditional medical practices. A table of 66 plants is presented along with Chinese and Chumash uses of each plant. These uses are compared and contrasted. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527593 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527592&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F213%3Frss%3D1 We investigated the effects of group music intervention on aggression and self-esteem in children with highly aggressive behavior. Forty-eight children were allocated to either a music intervention group or an untreated control group. The music intervention group received 50 min of music intervention twice weekly for 15 consecutive weeks. The outcome measures were Child Behavior Checklist Aggression Problems Scale (Parents), Child Aggression Assessment Inventory (Teachers) and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale. After 15 weeks, the music intervention group showed significant reduction of aggression and improvement of self-esteem compared with the control group. All outcome measures were significantly lower in the music intervention group than prior to treatment, while there was no change in the c... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527592 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527591&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F203%3Frss%3D1 Catalytic therapy (CT) is a cancer treatment modality based on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) using a combination of substrate molecules and a catalyst. The most frequently used substrate/catalyst pair is ascorbate/Co phthalocyanine (PcCo). In the present work, herb extracts containing pigments have been studied as a catalyst in place of PcCo. Extracts from herbs are expected to have efficiency comparable with that of phthalocyanines but as natural products, to exhibit fewer side effects. The present studies demonstrate that a combined use of ascorbate and herbal extracts results in ROS production and a significant decrease in the number of cancer cells after a single in vitro treatment. Treatment with ascorbate in conjunction with extracts prepared from several medicinal ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527591 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527590&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F197%3Frss%3D1 Comfrey or Symphytum officinale (L.) (Boraginaceae) is a very popular plant used for therapeutic purposes. Since the 1980s, its effects have been studied in long-term carcinogenesis studies, in which Comfrey extract is administered at high doses during several months and the neoplastic hepatic lesions are evaluated. However, the literature on this topic is very poor considering the studies performed under short-term carcinogenesis protocols, such as the ‘resistant hepatocyte model’ (RHM). In these studies, it is possible to observe easily the phenomena related to the early phases of tumor development, since pre-neoplastic lesions (PNLs) rise in about 1–2 months of chemical induction. Herein, the effects of chronic oral treatment of rats with 10% Comfrey ethanolic extract ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527590 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527589&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F189%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, BNE exhibited potential anti-HBV activity in an animal model of HBV viremia. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527589 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527588&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F177%3Frss%3D1 Phytochemicals are dietary phytoestrogens that may play a role in prostate cancer prevention. Forty percent of Americans use complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) for disease prevention and therapy. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) contains flavonoids and active ingredients like alkaloids and steroidal lactones which are called ‘Withanolides’. We hypothesize that the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of Ashwagandha might contribute to its overall effectiveness as an anti-carcinogenic agent. The goal of our study was gain insight into the general biological and molecular functions and immunomodulatory processes that are altered as a result of Ashwagandha treatment in prostate cancer cells, and to identify the key signaling mechanisms that are involved in ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527588 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527587&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F169%3Frss%3D1 The usefulness of acupuncture (AP) as a complementary and/or alternative therapy in animals is well established but more research is needed on its clinical efficacy relative to conventional therapy, and on the underlying mechanisms of the effects of AP. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI), an important tool in monitoring cardiovascular diseases, provides a reliable method to monitor the effects of AP on the cardiovascular system. This controlled experiment monitored the effect electro-acupuncture (EA) at bilateral acupoint Neiguan (PC6) on recovery time after ketamine/xylazine cocktail anesthesia in healthy cats. The CMRI data established the basic feline cardiac function index (CFI), including cardiac output and major vessel velocity. To evaluate the effect of EA on the functions of... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527587 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527586&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F167%3Frss%3D1 ‘WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region (WHO Standard) was released in 2008. Initially, there were 92/361 controversial acupuncture points (acupoints). Through seven informal consultations and four task force team meetings, 86 points were agreed upon among the 92 controversial acupoints, leaving 6 remaining controversial acupoints, demanding active research in the future. This will enhance the reproducibility and validity of acupuncture studies. It will also lead to a better understanding of acupuncture mechanisms in order to optimize its clinical efficacy for a range of diseases and syndromes. This book has two parts: General Guidelines for Acupuncture Point Locations and WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations. First of all, familiarity with the Gen... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527586 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:12 +0100 3527586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527585&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F157%3Frss%3D1 Mistletoe preparations such as Iscador are in common use as complementary/anthroposophic medications for many cancer indications, particularly for solid cancers. The efficacy is still discussed controversially. This paper presents an individual patient data meta-analysis of all published prospective matched-pair studies with breast cancer patients concerned with long-term application of a complementary/anthroposophic therapy with the mistletoe preparation Iscador. Six sets of data were available for individual patient meta-analysis of breast cancer patients, matched according to prognostic factors into pairs with and without mistletoe (Iscador) therapy. The main outcome measures were overall survival and psychosomatic self-regulation. Overall survival was almost significant in favor of the... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527585 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:11 +0100 3527585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527584&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F151%3Frss%3D1 This article as a part of a series comprises animal experiments in the field of needle and laser acupuncture. The investigations presented in this article were performed in pigs, dogs and sheep. In all studies sedative stimulation effects of the acupoint Yintang are described using different measurement parameters (EEG-bispectral index, EEG spectral edge frequency and metabolic parameters). (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527584 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:11 +0100 3527584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3527583&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F2%2F149%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3527583 Tue, 04 May 2010 04:49:11 +0100 3527583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237150&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F145%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237150 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:31 +0100 3237150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237149&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F137%3Frss%3D1 The present investigation was undertaken to assess the role of Mucuna pruriens in infertile men who were under psychological stress. Study included 60 subjects who were undergoing infertility screening and were found to be suffering from psychological stress, assessed on the basis of a questionnaire and elevated serum cortisol levels. Age-matched 60 healthy men having normal semen parameters and who had previously initiated at least one pregnancy were included as controls. Infertile subjects were administered with M. pruriens seed powder (5 g day–1) orally. For carrying out morphological and biochemical analysis, semen samples were collected twice, first before starting treatment and second after 3 months of treatment. The results demonstrated decreased sperm count and motility in su... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237149 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:31 +0100 3237149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237148&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F129%3Frss%3D1 Several homeopathic remedies, namely, Pulsatilla Nigricans (30th potency), Ceanothus Americanus (both mother tincture and 6th potency) and Ferrum Metallicum (30th potency) selected as per similia principles were administered to 38 thalassemic patients receiving Hydroxyurea (HU) therapy for a varying period of time. Levels of serum ferritin (SF), fetal hemoglobin (HbF), hemoglobin (Hb), platelet count (PC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), white blood cell (WBC) count, bilirubin content, alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and serum total protein content of patients were determined before and 3 months after administration of the homeopathic remedies in combination with HU to eva... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237148 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237147&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F121%3Frss%3D1 Meditation involves attentional regulation and may lead to increased activity in brain regions associated with attention such as dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we examined whether DLPFC and ACC were activated during meditation. Subjects who meditate were recruited and scanned on a 3.0 Tesla scanner. Subjects meditated for four sessions of 12 min and performed four sessions of a 6 min control task. Individual and group t-maps were generated of overall meditation response versus control response and late meditation response versus early meditation response for each subject and time courses were plotted. For the overall group (n = 13), and using an overall brain analysis, there were no statistically si... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237147 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237146&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F115%3Frss%3D1 Plectranthus amboinicus (P. amboinicus) is a folk herb that is used to treat inflammatory diseases or swelling symptoms in Taiwan. We investigated therapeutic efficacy of P. amboinicus in treating Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) using collagen-induced arthritis animal model. Arthritis was induced in Lewis rats by immunization with bovine type II collagen. Serum anti-collagen IgG, IgM and C-reactive protein (CRP) were analyzed. To understand the inflammation condition of treated animals, production of TNF-, IL-6 and IL-1β from peritoneal exudates cells (PEC) were also analyzed. P. amboinicus significantly inhibited the footpad swelling and arthritic symptoms in collagen-induced arthritic rats, while the serum anti-collagen IgM and CRP levels were consistently decreased. The production of pro... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237146 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237145&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F107%3Frss%3D1 Excessive and inappropriate use of medications, or ‘polypharmacy’, has been recognized as a public health problem. In addition, there is growing use of dietary supplements in the United States; however, little is known about the patterns of supplement use. Recent reports in the literature of cases of excessive or inappropriate use of herbal dietary supplements leading to the term ‘polyherbacy’. The clinical vignettes described in this article highlight the need for further research on the nature and extent of multiple and inappropriate dietary supplement use or ‘dietary supplement polypharmacy’. Clinical interviewing and population surveys both address this issue in complementary ways, and provide a further understanding of dietary supplement use pattern... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237145 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237144&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F97%3Frss%3D1 Melilotus suaveolens Ledeb is a traditional medicinal plant for treating inflammation-related disease. This explores the inner anti-inflammatory mechanism of n-butanol extract from M. suaveolens Ledeb. Inflammatory cellular model was established by lipopolysaccharide intervention on RAW264.7 cell line. Levels of secreted cytokines TNF-, IL-1β, IL-6, NO and IL-10 in supernatant, mRNA expression of TNF-, COX-2, iNOS and HO-1, protein expression of COX-2 and HO-1, activation of NF-B and ingredients in the extract were assayed by ELISA, real time quantitative PCR, western blot, immunocytochemical test and HPLC fingerprint test, respectively. As a result, the extract could not only markedly reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators to different extents by blocking NF-B activation... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237144 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237143&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F87%3Frss%3D1 In women facing menopause, end of menstrual activity is accompanied by lower levels of estrogen and gradual weight gain. Postmenopausal weight gain sounds an alarm for women's health and may lead to hyperlipidemia, a lipid increase and glucose intolerance. These phenomena are connected to lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, type II diabetes mellitus, arteriosclerosis and metabolic syndrome, making it essential to prevent weight gain in women. A Kampo medicine, Boi-ogi-to, is traditionally used to treat obese conditions, but the mechanism has not yet been investigated. In this experiment, we tested the antiobesity properties of Boi-ogi-to in ovariectomized rats by measuring changes of serum cytokine levels and adipocytokines in fat cells. After treatment with this extract for 6... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237143 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237142&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F79%3Frss%3D1 Perillae fructus (perilla seed) is a traditional medicinal herb used to treat bronchial asthma in Oriental medical clinics. ST36 is one of the most widely used acupuncture points, particularly for immune system regulation. Injection of an herbal extract into an acupuncture point (herbal acupuncture) is a therapeutic technique combining both acupuncture and herbal treatment. Perillae fructus extract was injected subcutaneously (Perillae fructus herbal acupuncture; PF-HA) at acupoint ST36 of OVA-induced asthmatic mice. The lung weight, bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) cell count, the number of CCR3+, CD11b+, CD4+ and CD3e+/CD69+ cells in the lung, and the level of IgE, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 in BALF and serum were then measured. RT-PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 a... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237142 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237141&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F69%3Frss%3D1 The effect of oral administration of Hochuekkito (HET; Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi-Tang in Chinese), a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, on mucosal IgA immune response was investigated. To induce the antigen-specific antibodies in mucosal site, ovalbumin (OVA)-entrapped biodegradable microparticles (OVA-microparticles) were used as an antigen. Mice were orally immunized with OVA-microparticles for 3 successive days with intragastric gavage. From 7 days after the onset of immunization, the mice were boosted twice a week with the same antigen for 2 weeks. HET or water alone was orally administered to the mice via the intragastric route from 7 days before to 27 days after the onset of immunization. Although no significant change in total secretory IgA antibody level was observed in intestinal and nasa... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237141 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237141 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237140&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F63%3Frss%3D1 Earlier we identified adenosine monophosphate (AMP) N1-oxide as a unique compound of royal jelly (RJ) that induces neurite outgrowth (neuritegenesis) from cultured rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells via the adenosine A2A receptor. Now, we found that AMP N1-oxide stimulated the phosphorylation of not only mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) but also that of cAMP/calcium-response element-binding protein (CREB) in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibition of MAPK activation by a MEK inhibitor, PD98059, did not influence the AMP N1-oxide-induced neuritegenesis, whereas that of protein kinase A (PKA) by a selective inhibitor, KT5720, significantly reduced neurite outgrowth. AMP N1-oxide also had the activity of suppressing the growth of PC12 cells, which correlated well with the neurite outgrowth-pr... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237140 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237139&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F57%3Frss%3D1 A crude acetone extract of the pit of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) was prepared and its antiviral activity evaluated against lytic Pseudomonas phage ATCC 14209-B1, using Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 25668 as the host cell. The antiviral activity of date pits was found to be mediated by binding to the phage, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of <10 µg ml–1. The decimal reduction time (D-values), the concentration exponent () and the phage inactivation kinetics were determined. The date pit extracts show a strong ability to inhibit the infectivity of Pseudomonas phage ATCC 14209-B1 and completely prevented bacterial lysis, which it is hoped will promote research into its potential as a novel antiviral agent against pathogenic human viruses. (Source: Evidence-bas... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237139 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237139 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237138&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F47%3Frss%3D1 Vaccinium myrtillus (Bilberry) extracts (VME) were tested for effects on angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. VME (0.3–30 µg ml–1) and GM6001 (0.1–100 µM; a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor) concentration-dependently inhibited both tube formation and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). In addition, VME inhibited VEGF-A-induced proliferation of HUVECs. VME inhibited VEGF-A-induced phosphorylations of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) and serine/threonine protein kinase family protein kinase B (Akt), but not that of phospholipase C (PLC). In an in vivo assay, intravitreal administration of VME inhibited the formation of neovascular tufts during oxygen-induced ret... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237138 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237137&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F41%3Frss%3D1 To verify the anti-inflammatory potency of iridoids, seven iridoid glucosides (aucubin, catalpol, gentiopicroside, swertiamarin, geniposide, geniposidic acid and loganin) and an iridoid aglycone (genipin) were investigated with in vitro testing model systems based on inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1/-2 enzymes, the tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) formation and nitric oxide (NO) production. The hydrolyzed-iridoid products (H-iridoid) with β-gludosidase treatment only showed inhibitory activities, and revealed different potencies, depending on their chemical structures. Without the β-gludosidase treatment, no single iridoid glycoside exhibited any activities. The aglycone form (genipin) also did not show inhibitory activities. To compare anti-inflammatory potency, the inhibitory ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237137 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237136&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F33%3Frss%3D1 In 1849, Charles Darwin was so ill that he was unable to work one out of every 3 days, and after having various troubling symptoms for 2–12 years, he wrote to a friend that he was ‘going the way of all flesh’. He sought treatment from Dr James Manby Gully, a medical doctor who used water cure and homeopathic medicines. Despite being highly skeptical of these treatments, he experienced a dramatic improvement in his health, though some of his digestive and skin symptoms returned various times in his life. He grew to appreciate water cure, but remained skeptical of homeopathy, even though his own experiments on insectivore plants using what can be described as homeopathic doses of ammonia salts surprised and shocked him with their significant biological effect. Darwin even e... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237136 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:30 +0100 3237136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237135&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F29%3Frss%3D1 David Geffen School of Medicine faculty, representing a wide range of disciplines, engaged speakers nationally known for their expertise on complementary, alternative and integrative medicine (CAIM) and its investigation at a January, 2008 symposium on the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles. The forum was created to educate the UCLA Institutional Review Board (IRB), and lively participation by School of Medicine faculty helped bring IRB members up to speed on controversies surrounding CAIM research. The symposium demonstrated that academics who are neither proponents nor detractors of CAIM can facilitate cross talk between opposing camps, elucidating questions important to its evaluation by those charged with protecting research subjects. It also brought attention to the u... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237135 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:29 +0100 3237135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237134&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F11%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, demographic characteristics and factors related to an individual's health status are associated with CAM use. Future research is needed to address methodological limitations in existing studies. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237134 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:29 +0100 3237134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237133&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F3%3Frss%3D1 More and more patients have been diagnosed as having chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in recent years. Western drug use for this syndrome is often associated with many side-effects and little clinical benefit. As an alternative medicine, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has provided some evidences based upon ancient texts and recent studies, not only to offer clinical benefit but also offer insights into their mechanisms of action. It has perceived advantages such as being natural, effective and safe to ameliorate symptoms of CFS such as fatigue, disordered sleep, cognitive handicaps and other complex complaints, although there are some limitations regarding the diagnostic standards and methodology in related clinical or experimental studies. Modern mechanisms of TCM on CFS mainly focus on... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237133 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:29 +0100 3237133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237132&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F7%2F1%2F1%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237132 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:56:29 +0100 3237132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024013&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F523%3Frss%3D1 We previously reported that catechins of green tea have different antiproliferative effects on cell lines derived from gender-dependent cancers; epicatechin 3-gallate (ECG) had the strongest inhibitory effect. In the present study, we examined the effects of epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin-gallate (ECG) and EGC 3-gallate (EGCG) on the viability, density, doubling time and cycle number of cell lines derived from melanoma metastasized to lymph nodes (MB-1133 and SE-0154) or distant organs (CH-0356, JK-0346, SA-1171, GE-0208, NS-1176 and LF-0023). These catechins have been documented to have no growth suppressive or apoptotic effects on normal melanocytes (Nihal et al., Int J Cancer 2005;114:513–21). EGCG (50 µM) showed greater inhibitory potency than EGC (50 µM) in SE-0... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024013 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024012&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F517%3Frss%3D1 Methanolic extracts of 41 plant species belonging to 27 families used in the traditional medicine in Nepal have been investigated for in vitro antiviral activity against Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and influenza virus A by dye uptake assay in the systems HSV-1/Vero cells and influenza virus A/MDCK cells. The extracts of Astilbe rivularis, Bergenia ciliata, Cassiope fastigiata and Thymus linearis showed potent anti-herpes viral activity. The extracts of Allium oreoprasum, Androsace strigilosa, Asparagus filicinus, Astilbe rivularis, Bergenia ciliata and Verbascum thapsus exhibited strong anti-influenza viral activity. Only the extracts of A. rivularis and B. ciliata demonstrated remarkable activity against both viruses. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024012 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024011&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F507%3Frss%3D1 In an open-label, prospective non-randomized cohort study, we compared the effectiveness and tolerability profiles of the homeopathic remedy Nervoheel N with those of the benzodiazepine, lorazepam, in 248 patients with insomnia, distress, anxieties, restlessness or burnout and similar nervous conditions (‘mild nervous disorders’). Patients were treated with Nervoheel N or lorazepam at the recommended doses for a maximum of 4 weeks. Dose variations were allowed if in the patient's best interest. Treatment effects were evaluated by the practitioner in a dialogue with the patient at the start of treatment, after 2 weeks and after maximally 4 weeks of treatment. Tolerability data were recorded as adverse events. At baseline, lorazepam patients were on average slightly older and the... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024011 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024010&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F503%3Frss%3D1 Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease influenced by interplay among genetic and environmental factors, of which one is stress. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is frequently used to treat stress and those diseases in which stress has been implicated. Results are presented from a survey of patients with scleroderma. Respondents were a convenient sample of those attending a national conference in Las Vegas in 2002. Findings implicate stress in the onset, continuation and exacerbation of scleroderma. The implication is that CAM providers may be filling an important patient need in their provision of services that identify and treat stress and its related disorders. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024010 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024009&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F495%3Frss%3D1 Nephrolithiasis in the communities of Northeast Thailand frequently presents with multiple chronic health complaints, i.e. myofascial pain, back pain, dyspepsia, arthralgia, headache, fatigue, frank paresthesia, dysuria and any of these aggravated by purine-rich food (PRF). We assessed the efficacy of Orthosiphon in treating subjects with at least two active symptoms and negative for urine white blood cells. Subjects were randomly allocated to two groups. Crude extract of Orthosiphon given in a capsule (equivalent to 1.6–1.8 g of dried leaves of Orthosiphon) two times a day to Group 1 (n = 36) and a placebo to Group 2 (n = 40) for 14 days. The medication for each subject was packed and its code kept secret until the data analysis. Both groups were asked not to consume any of 25 purin... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024009 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024008&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F489%3Frss%3D1 We examined the effect of 10HDA on VEGF-induced proliferation, migration and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our findings showed that, 10HDA at 20 µM or more significantly inhibited such proliferation, migration and tube formation. Similarly, 10 µM GM6001, a matrix metalloprotease inhibitor, prevented VEGF-induced migration and tube formation. These findings indicate that 10HDA exerts an inhibitory effect on VEGF-induced angiogenesis, partly by inhibiting both cell proliferation and migration. Further experiments will be needed to clarify the detailed mechanism. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024008 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024007&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F483%3Frss%3D1 Propolis is a sticky dark-colored material showing a very complex chemical composition that honeybees collect from plants. It has been used in folk medicine since ancient times, due to several biological properties, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities, among others. Its antitumor action in vivo and in vitro has also been reported, using propolis extracts or its isolated compounds. The goal of this work was to evaluate propolis's cytotoxic action in vitro on human laryngeal epidermoid carcinoma (Hep-2) cells. These cells were incubated with different concentrations of this bee product for different time periods, and morphology and the number of viable HEp-2 cells analyzed. Data showed that propolis exhibited a cytotoxic effect in vitro again... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024007 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024006&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F473%3Frss%3D1 Research investigating the efficacy of infant massage has largely focused on premature and low birth weight infants. The majority of investigations have neglected highly acute patients in academic neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The current study was developed with two aims: (Phase 1) to develop, implement and demonstrate the feasibility and safety of a parent-trained compassionate touch/massage program for infants with complex medical conditions and (Phase 2) to conduct a longitudinal randomized control trial (RCT) of hand containment/massage versus standard of care in a level III academic Center for Newborn and Infant Critical Care (CNICC). Certified infant massage instructors (CIMIs) taught parents to massage their hospitalized infants. Massage therapy and instruction were perfor... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024006 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024005&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F465%3Frss%3D1 A homeopathic combination preparation (HCP) for canine osteoarthritic pain was evaluated in a randomized, double-controlled and double-blinded clinical trial. Forty-four dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) that were randomly allocated into one of three groups completed the study. All dogs were fed test products or placebo for 8 weeks. The dogs were evaluated at the clinic four times, with 4-week intervals. Six different variables were assessed: veterinary-assessed mobility, two force plate variables, an owner-evaluated chronic pain index and pain and locomotion visual analogue scales (VASs). Intake of extra non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was also evaluated. A Chi-squared test and a Mann–Whitney test were used to determine significant improvement between groups. When changed into dic... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024005 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024004&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F457%3Frss%3D1 In the present study, we investigated the effects of Acori graminei rhizoma (AGR) on learning and memory for the Morris water maze task and on the central cholinergic system of the rats with excitotoxic medial septum (MS) lesion. On the water maze test, the rats were trained to find a platform that was in a fixed position during 6 days and then they received a 60 s probe trial in which the platform was removed from the pool on the 7th day. Ibotenic lesioning of the MS impaired the performance on the maze test and it caused degeneration of choline acetyltransferase and acetylcholine esterase in the hippocampus, which are markers of the central cholinergic system. Daily administrations of AGR (100 mg kg–1, i.p.) for 21 consecutive days produced reversals of the ibotenic acid-induced de... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024004 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024004 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024003&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F453%3Frss%3D1 Developing countries, where malaria is one of the most prevalent diseases, still rely on traditional medicine as a source for the treatment of this disease. In the present study, six selected plants (Acalypha fruticosa, Azadirachta indica, Cissus rotundifolia, Echium rauwalfii, Dendrosicyos socotrana and Boswellia elongata) commonly used in Yemen by traditional healers for the treatment of malaria as well as other diseases, were collected from different localities of Yemen, dried and extracted with methanol and water successfully. The antiplasmodial activity of the extracts was evaluated against fresh clinical isolates of Plasmodium falciparum. The selectivity parameters to evaluate the efficacy of these medicinal plants were measured by in vitro micro test (Mark III) according to World He... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024003 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024002&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F449%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024002 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024001&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F441%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this project was to conduct a systematic review to identify instruments designed to evaluate the quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of natural health products (NHPs). Instruments were examined for inclusion of items assessing methods, identity and content of the NHP, generalizability of results and instructions for use. Online databases, websites, textbooks and reference lists were searched to identify instruments. Relevance assessment and data extraction of articles were completed by two investigators and disagreements were settled by the third investigator. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Of the 4442 citations identified, 29 were potentially relevant with 16 meeting the criteria for inclusion. None of the instruments stated they were validated;... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024001 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:55 +0100 3024001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3024000&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F429%3Frss%3D1 This article presents a review of the current literature, including a systematic appraisal of the methodological value of each study and a discussion of potential benefits and adverse effects of acupuncture. While acupuncture holds great promise as a treatment modality for diverse pediatric conditions, a significant amount of additional research is necessary to establish an empirical basis for the incorporation of acupuncture into standard care. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3024000 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:54 +0100 3024000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023999&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F423%3Frss%3D1 It has been reported that American ginseng attenuates hyperglycemia and may present itself as a supplement to diabetes therapy. However, the lack of standardization in the usage of ginseng root leads to inconclusive results when applied to diabetes treatment. The mechanisms of American ginseng root in the treatment of diabetes remains a mystery. This greatly limits the effective utilization of American ginseng in facilitating diabetic therapy. Initiating studies have shown that American ginseng increases insulin production and reduces cell death in pancreatic β-cells. Also, studies have revealed American ginseng's ability to decrease blood glucose in type II diabetes patients as well as in streptozotocin-induced diabetic animals (STZ-diabetic mice). These data suggest that effects of ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023999 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:54 +0100 3023999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023998&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F4%2F421%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023998 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:14:54 +0100 3023998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672673&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F415%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672673 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672672&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F407%3Frss%3D1 In homeopathy, many difficulties are encountered in understanding theoretical presuppositions because they represent different paradigms from those of hegemonic science. In our medical school, we developed a brief homeopathic pathogenetic experimentation course to be added as curricular content and a didactic method in homeopathic disciplines to add practical experience to the theoretical approach of homeopathic presuppositions. In accordance with the premises laid out by Hahnemann, the father of homeopathy, brief pathogenetic experimentation was offered on a voluntary basis for students who were free of chronic diseases and who had not regularly used medication in the last 3 months. The clinical test, either crossed or sequential (randomized and blind), was used as a study model. Single w... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672672 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672671&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F399%3Frss%3D1 Vagal withdrawal and sympathetic overactivity accompany various types of stress. Qi training is reported to reduce sympathetic hyper-reactivity in a stressful situation. Turo, which is a type of dance that uses the Meridian Qi System, may reduce the psychological symptoms induced by an imbalance of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). We observed whether Turo training alters psychopathological and psychological symptoms using the Symptom Checklist 90-Revision (SCL-90-R) and examined whether it attenuates the stress response to mental stress in healthy adolescent females using the power spectrum analysis of heart rate variability (HRV). Twenty-one subjects received Turo training and 27 subjects were trained with mimicking movements. The SCL-90-R was measured before and after the 2-month trai... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672671 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672670&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F393%3Frss%3D1 Chinese medicine (CM) practice, as a knowledge-based industry, has not embraced knowledge management (KM) techniques widely. However, KM may facilitate the adaptation and promotion of evidence-based CM. A KM framework was introduced to its activities in evidence-based CM through the development of a CM portal. A codification strategy was used to codify and store knowledge systematically in a database. Several approaches were developed and implemented to address specific needs for CM such as centralizing the information, encouraging collective efforts, promoting integration of explicit and tacit knowledge, and developing a flexible technology and support system. Following the established KM framework, the RMIT Chinese Medicine Portal (www.chinese-medicine.com.au) was built up with four majo... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672670 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672669&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F379%3Frss%3D1 ‘Ki-energy’, which can be enhanced through the practice of Nishino Breathing Method, was reported to have beneficial health effects. Although Ki-energy can play an important role in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), as yet it is unknown how Ki-energy is generated, transmitted through air and received by another individual. We previously proposed that Ki-energy may include near-infrared radiation, and that the wavelength was between 800 and 2700 nm. Since Ki-energy is reflected by a mirror, we believe that the ‘Ki-beam’ has a small divergence angle. It can also be guided in a desired direction. The acrylic mirror reflection experiment suggests that the wavelength may be between 800 and 1600 nm. Using a linear variable interference filter, we found that Ki... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672669 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672668&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F375%3Frss%3D1 Although abdominal bloating is one of the most bothersome symptoms experienced by patients with functional dyspepsia (FD), therapeutic drugs to relieve abdominal bloating have not been established. We investigated the Kampo (Chinese herbal) medicine, Hangekobokuto (Banxia-houpo-tang, HKT) for patients with FD from the standpoint of bowel gas retention. The bowel gas volume calculated from a plain abdominal radiogram (gas volume score, GVS) in FD patients was significantly higher than that in healthy subjects. Two week administration of HKT in the FD patients showed a significant decrease of GVS. Furthermore, gastrointestinal symptoms, especially symptoms of abdominal pain, indigestion and constipation, all of which are closely related to abdominal bloating, improved significantly in FD pat... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672668 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672667&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F365%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, GLM alleviated chronic orthopedic pain in dogs although it was not as effective as carprofen. As no side-effects were detected, GLM may be beneficial in dogs e.g. when non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs cannot be used. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672667 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672666&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F357%3Frss%3D1 The effects of lactic acid bacteria-fermented soybean extract (BiofermenticsTM; BF) on experimental models of hepatic and renal disorders were investigated in vivo and in vitro. In rat, hepatitis induced by feeding of deoxycholic acid (DCA, 0.5 wt/wt, n = 6) or intraperitoneal injection of d-galactosamine (GMN, 500 mg/body wt, n = 6), the increase in serum AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) levels were inhibited significantly (P < 0.05) by feeding a diet containing 5% dried BF. Moreover, the BF-administered rat group showed lower concentrations of blood urea nitrogen and a larger amount of urine as compared with values in the control group. Pretreatment of primary cell cultures of rat hepatic and renal cells with BF prior to exposure to dichromate (K2Cr2... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672666 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672665&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F351%3Frss%3D1 Morinda citrifolia L. (noni) is one of the most important traditional Polynesian medicinal plants. The primary indigenous use of this plant appears to be of the leaves, as a topical treatment for wound healing. The ethanol extract of noni leaves (150 mg kg–1 day–1) was used to evaluate the wound-healing activity on rats, using excision and dead space wound models. Animals were randomly divided into two groups of six for each model. Test group animals in each model were treated with the ethanol extract of noni orally by mixing in drinking water and the control group animals were maintained with plain drinking water. Healing was assessed by the rate of wound contraction, time until complete epithelialization, granulation tissue weight and hydoxyproline content. On day 11, the ext... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672665 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672664&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F343%3Frss%3D1 In this study, the effects of saffron ethanolic extract and its constituents, crocin and safranal, were evaluated in skeletal muscle during I/R injury. Hind limb ischemia was induced using clamping the common femoral artery and vein. After 2 h ischemia, the clamp of the femoral vessels of animals was taken off and the animal underwent 1h reperfusion. Muscle injuries were evaluated by recording of the electromyographic (EMG) potentials and performing some biochemical analysis including thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total sulfhydryl (SH) groups and antioxidant capacity of muscle (using FRAP assay). The ethanolic extract of saffron (5, 20 and 80 mg kg–1), crocin (50, 200 and 400 mg kg–1), safranal (0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 ml kg–1) and normal saline (10 ml kg&nda... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672664 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672663&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F331%3Frss%3D1 The increased use of feed in Egypt's aquaculture and animal industries raises concerns about the possible presence of mycotoxins in feedstuffs. The use of alternative medicine, such as botanicals and nutritional supplements, has become popular with inflammatory cases. The present study aimed to testify the role played by phytic acid (IP6) in enhancing the reproductive and oxidative toxicity induced in aflatoxinB1 (AFB1) treated white male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) throughout treatment and withdrawal periods. One hundred and twenty white male albino rats were grouped into four groups. Group 1, was injected with 300 µg kg–1 body wt of AFB1 once every 3 days for 15 days and left uninjected for another 15 days to study the withdrawal effect. Group 2, was injected with 300 &mi... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672663 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672662&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F325%3Frss%3D1 We observed the effect of modified Wendan decoction (modified Wen-Dan-Tang) on a cellular model of Alzheimer's disease. Amyloid beta (Aβ) 25–35 segment neurotoxin was employed to induce a PC12 cellular model of Alzheimer's disease. After modified Wendan decoction was fed to rats, the serum containing medicine was prepared and changes in cell morphology observed. Cell mortality and survival rate was examined by trypan blue stain assay and MTT method and caspase-3 expression was detected by western blot, while cell apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry. Cell morphology of prepared serum group was better than that of controls, and cell survival rate in prepared serum group was higher than that in control (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). Cell mortality, caspase-3 expression and apop... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672662 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672661&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F317%3Frss%3D1 Ethanol extract (FRE) and water extract (FRW) of Ficus racemosa (family: Moraceae) were subjected to free radical scavenging both by steady state and time resolved methods such as nanosecond pulse radiolysis and stopped-flow spectrophotometric analyses. FRE exhibited significantly higher steady state antioxidant activity than FRW. FRE exhibited concentration dependent DPPH, ABTS•–, hydroxyl radical and superoxide radical scavenging and inhibition of lipid peroxidation with IC50 comparable with tested standard compounds. In vitro radioprotective potential of FRE was studied using micronucleus assay in irradiated Chinese hamster lung fibroblast cells (V79). Pretreatment with different doses of FRE 1h prior to 2 Gy -radiation resulted in a significant (P < 0.001) decrease in the... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672661 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672660&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F315%3Frss%3D1 We present evidence that MTCA is a natural constituent of Maca, and on consumption no toxicity is found. This suggests that, when consumed as multi-component, MTCA may loose its adversity as drug action. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672660 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672659&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F305%3Frss%3D1 The assessment of acupuncture-induced effects on brain function is crucial. Ultrasound-assisted brain function monitoring and bioelectrical methods as well as near infrared spectroscopic procedures and functional magnetic resonance investigations form the basis for the latest scientific examination methods for acupuncture research. The laserneedle acupuncture, which was examined scientifically for the first time in Graz, represents a new painless and non-invasive acupuncture method. In this way, individual combinations of acupuncture points can be stimulated simultaneously according to traditional Chinese medicine. In the context of double-blind studies, effects in the brain could be demonstrated in a reproducible manner for the first time. This second part of the short review article summ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672659 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672658&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F297%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, NHPs may be of use in preventing complications associated with surgery. The cost effectiveness of some NHPs is encouraging in certain areas but needs confirmation from further research. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672658 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672657&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F283%3Frss%3D1 Lyme disease (LD) is the most common tick-borne disease in the northern hemisphere, producing a wide range of disabling effects on multiple human targets, including the skin, the nervous system, the joints and the heart. Insufficient clinical diagnostic methods, the necessity for prompt antibiotic treatment along with the pervasive nature of infection impel the development and establishment of new clinical diagnostic tools with increased accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. The goal of this article is 4-fold: (i) to detail LD infection and pathology, (ii) to review prevalent diagnostic methods, emphasizing inherent problems, (iii) to introduce the usage of in vivo induced antigen technology (IVIAT) in clinical diagnostics and (iv) to underscore the relevance of a novel comprehensive LD d... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672657 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672656&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F3%2F279%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672656 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2672656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437633&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F277%3Frss%3D1 Two consecutive conferences on ‘Sino-Japan Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Development on the Traditional Uighur Medicine’ were held in Xinjiang Medical University on July 3 and Kanazawa Medical University on October 6, 2007. The Vice president Halmurat Upur presided over the meeting and gave congratulatory address on holding of the conference. In order to understand mutually and discuss the possibility of the Uighur Medicine as CAM and the situation of medicine in the global sense, specialist scholars of Traditional Uighur Medicine and postgraduates attended this conference. In the meeting of the CAM, the achievements on the research of Traditional Uighur Medicine were exchanged and warmly discussed. Presentations were made in the consecutive conference. (Source: Ev... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437633 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437632&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F271%3Frss%3D1 Although there are many clinical programs designed to bring humor into pediatric hospitals, there has been very little research with children or adolescents concerning the specific utility of humor for children undergoing stressful or painful procedures. Rx LaughterTM, a non-profit organization interested in the use of humor for healing, collaborated with UCLA to collect preliminary data on a sample of 18 children aged 7–16 years. Participants watched humorous video-tapes before, during and after a standardized pain task that involved placing a hand in cold water. Pain appraisal (ratings of pain severity) and pain tolerance (submersion time) were recorded and examined in relation to humor indicators (number of laughs/smiles during each video and child ratings of how funny the video w... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437632 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437631&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F265%3Frss%3D1 Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners consider that chronic fatigue reflects a disharmony and depletion in the supply of qi in the body. Qigong is one of the traditional complementary interventions used to strengthen qi through self-practice, and to manage the state of qi to prevent and cure disease. The aim of this study is to assess whether qigong could be used to manage the symptoms of chronic fatigue. Eighteen Caucasian, British female participants were recruited, taught a qigong routine during weekly classes over 6 months, and asked to practice it daily for 15 min. Participants completed the core set of the RAND Medical Outcomes Study questionnaire (RAND MOS) and a sleep diary during the 2-week baseline control period, and at 3 and 6 months following the start of the trial. The q... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437631 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437631 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437630&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F257%3Frss%3D1 Although reports on the efficacy of homeopathic medicines in animal models are limited, there are even fewer reports on the in vitro action of these dynamized preparations. We have evaluated the cytotoxic activity of 30C and 200C potencies of ten dynamized medicines against Dalton's Lymphoma Ascites, Ehrlich's Ascites Carcinoma, lung fibroblast (L929) and Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell lines and compared activity with their mother tinctures during short-term and long-term cell culture. The effect of dynamized medicines to induce apoptosis was also evaluated and we studied how dynamized medicines affected genes expressed during apoptosis. Mother tinctures as well as some dynamized medicines showed significant cytotoxicity to cells during short and long-term incubation. Potentiated alcohol... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437630 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437629&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F247%3Frss%3D1 The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of four different Japanese and Chinese herbal prescriptions, Ren-Shen-Yang-Rong-Tang (Ninjin’yoeito, NYT), Chai-Hu-Gui-Zhi-Gan-Jiang-Tang (Saikokeishikankyoto, SKKT), Si-Jun-Zi-Tang (Shikunshito, SKT) and Si-Wu-Tang (Shimotsuto, SMT), which are traditionally used for anemia and fatigue, against hematotoxicity in mice treated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). NYT 1–100 mg kg–1 day–1 injected orally for 7 consecutive days before and after 5-FU injection significantly suppressed reductions in red blood cell, white blood cell and platelet counts in peripheral blood, and accelerated their recovery. Administration of SKKT also produced a slight but significant improvement in 5-FU-induced erythrocytopenia, whereas SMT and... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437629 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437628&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F239%3Frss%3D1 This study confirms the AI efficacy of this lipid extract of P. canaliculus, its initial analgesic effect, its perfect tolerance and its long-term healing properties. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437628 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437628 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437627&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F233%3Frss%3D1 The role of abrin, a toxic lectin isolated from seeds of Abrus precatorius Linn in inducing apoptosis in murine Dalton's Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) cells was evaluated. Abrin when incubated at the concentration of 10 ng per million DLA cells could bring about cell death as typical morphological changes with apoptosis. However, necrotic cell death dominated when a higher dose of abrin was used. DNA samples, isolated from DLA cells treated with abrin showed fragmentation. Abrin brought about induction of apoptosis by stimulating the expression of pro-apoptotic Caspase-3, at the same time blocking the expression of Bcl-2, which is an anti apoptotic gene. However, the expression of tumor suppressor gene p53 has not been observed in control and abrin-treated DLA cells. Results suggested that abrin ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437627 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437626&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F227%3Frss%3D1 The antioxidant activities of crude extract of Phaulopsis fascisepala leaf were evaluated and compared with -tocopherol and BHT as synthetic antioxidants and ascorbic acid as natural-based antioxidant. In vitro, we studied its antioxidative activities, radical-scavenging effects, Fe2+-chelating ability and reducing power. The total phenolic content was determined and expressed in gallic acid equivalent. The extract showed variable activities in all of these in vitro tests. The antioxidant effect of P. fascisepala was strongly dose dependent, increased with increasing leaf extract dose and then leveled off with further increase in extract dose. Compared to other antioxidants used in the study, -Tocopherol, ascorbic acid and BHT, P. fascisepala leaf extract showed less scavenging effect on ,... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437626 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437625&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F219%3Frss%3D1 This study was designed to investigate the hypocholesteremic and antioxidant potential of AR root in both normo- and hypercholesteremic animals. Normal and hypercholesteremic male albino rats were administered with root powder of AR (5 and 10 g% dose levels) along with normal and hypercholesteremic diets, respectively, for a duration of 4 weeks. Plasma and hepatic lipid profiles, fecal sterol, bile acid excretion and hepatic antioxidant activity were assessed. Inclusion of AR root powder in diet, resulted in a dose-dependant reduction in plasma and hepatic lipid profiles, increased fecal excretion of cholesterol, neutral sterol and bile acid along with increases in hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity and bile acid content in hypercholesteremic rats. Further, AR root also improved the hepati... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437625 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437624&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F211%3Frss%3D1 Tibetan medicated-bath therapy has been applied to patients with rheumatoid arthritis for centuries. However, the detailed action mechanism of Tibetan medicated-bath therapy on the morphology and function of joints remains unknown. We designed our investigation to evaluate the efficacy of Tibetan medicated-bath therapy on adjuvant arthritis (AA) of rats in comparison with water-bath and dexamethasone administration. AA was induced by intradermal injection of Mycobacterium butyricum suspended in sterile mineral oil. The control animals were similarly injected with sterile vehicle. Eight days after injection, rats were treated with fresh-water bath, Tibetan medicated-bath (40°C, 15 min) or intramuscular injection with dexamethasone for 21 consecutive days after which we evaluated the sev... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437624 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437623&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F203%3Frss%3D1 Centella asiatica (CeA) is a creeping herb, growing in moist places in India and other Asian Countries. Ayurvedic system of medicine, an alternate system of medicine in India, uses leaves of CeA for memory enhancement. Here, we have investigated the role of CeA fresh leaf juice treatment during growth spurt period of rats on dendritic morphology of amygdaloid neurons, one of the regions concerned with learning and memory. The present study was conducted on neonatal rat pups. The rat pups (7-days-old) were fed with 2, 4 and 6 ml/kg body of fresh leaf juice of CeA for 2, 4 and 6 weeks. After the treatment period, the rats were killed, brains removed and amygdaloid neurons impregnated with Silver nitrate (Golgi staining). Amygdaloid neurons were traced using camera lucida and dendritic branch... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437623 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437622&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F195%3Frss%3D1 This study investigated the protective effect of licorice water extract against cadmium (CdCl2, Cd)-induced liver toxicity in rats. To induce acute toxicity, Cd (4 mg/kg body weight) was dissolved in normal saline and intravenously (i.v.) injected into rats. The rats then received either a vehicle or licorice water extract (50, 100 mg/kg/day) for 3 days, and were subsequently exposed to a single injection of Cd 24 h after the last licorice/vehicle treatment. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly increased by Cd treatment. In contrast, pretreatment with licorice reduced ALT, AST and LDH. In histopathological analysis, licorice decreased the central necrosis around central veins, the peripheral hemorrhage around po... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437622 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437621&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F185%3Frss%3D1 Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy with its mode of action unclear and efficacy inconclusive. A lack of attention given to the role of psychosocial context presented in clinical provision of acupuncture may mainly account for the current dilemma in acupuncture research. This psychosocial context induces various cognitive and affective processes in the patient while receiving this treatment. On the basis of the analysis of these psychological factors involved in clinical provision of acupuncture and in light of prior studies on the placebo effect, the author hypothesizes that acupuncture works through potentiation and modulation of a highly organized and somatotopic network of endogenous opioids that links expectation, attention and body schema. This hypothesis, which focuses on the ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437621 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437620&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F175%3Frss%3D1 Ki (in Japanese) or Qi (in Chinese) is the key concept in Eastern medicine, Eastern philosophy, as well as in martial arts. We explain the philosophical and psychological background of Ki. We emphasize that the unique aspects of Eastern philosophy are ‘non-linearity’ and ‘holistic’ approach. We then present physics aspect of Ki. Our experiments demonstrated that a ‘Ki-beam’ carries ‘entropy’ (or information), which is different from ‘energy’. We introduce our experience of having taught Ki to 37 beginners in the United States through the Nishino Breathing Method. If beginners had martial arts training or a strong background in music or dance, about half of them could sense Ki within 10 weeks (1 h class per week) of practice. (Sour... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437620 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437619&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F165%3Frss%3D1 While the ancient Egyptians and Greeks used honey for wound care, and a broad spectrum of wounds are treated all over the world with natural unprocessed honeys from different sources, MedihoneyTM has been one of the first medically certified honeys licensed as a medical product for professional wound care in Europe and Australia. Our experience with medical honey in wound care refers only to this product. In this review, we put our clinical experience into a broader perspective to comment on the use of medical honey in wound care. More prospective randomized studies on a wider range of types of wounds are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of medical honey in wound care. Nonetheless, the current evidence confirming the antibacterial properties and additional beneficial effects of me... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437619 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437618&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F159%3Frss%3D1 This is the final article in a four part series reviewing the influence of humor and laughter on physiological and psychological well-being. This final article reviews the evidence for the effect of sense of humor, exposure to a humor stimulus and laughter on various immune system components, with a focus on the effects of laughter on natural killer cell cytotoxicity. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437618 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437617&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F153%3Frss%3D1 Since 1997, the Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine of Graz Medical University has been dealing with the demystification of acupuncture and examining, using non-invasive methods, how different stimulation modalities (manual needle acupuncture, laserneedle acupuncture and electro acupuncture) affect peripheral and central functions. Laser is also an important instrument for acupuncture. One only needs to mention the treatment of children or of patients with needle phobia. The laserneedle acupuncture, which was examined scientifically for the first time in Graz, represents a new painless acupuncture method for which up to ten laserneedles are glued to the skin, but not stuck into it. This first part of the short review article summarizes some of ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437617 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437616&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F141%3Frss%3D1 The objective of this review is to present examples of lead compounds identified from biological material (fungi, plant extracts and agro-industry material) and of possible interest in the field of a pharmacological approach to the therapy of β-thalassemia using molecules able to stimulate production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in adults. Concerning the employment of HbF inducers as potential drugs for pharmacological treatment of β-thalassemia, the following conclusions can be reached: (i) this therapeutic approach is reasonable, on the basis of the clinical parameters exhibited by hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin patients, (ii) clinical trials (even if still limited) employing HbF inducers were effective in ameliorating the symptoms of β-thalassemia patients, (iii)... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437616 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437615&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F133%3Frss%3D1 Static magnetic field (SMF) therapy, applied via a permanent magnet attached to the skin, is used by people worldwide for self-care. Despite a lack of established SMF dosage and treatment regimens, multiple studies are conducted to evaluate SMF therapy effectiveness. Our objectives in conducting this review are to:(i) summarize SMF research conducted in humans; (ii) critically evaluate reporting quality of SMF dosages and treatment parameters and (iii) propose a set of criteria for reporting SMF treatment parameters in future clinical trials. We searched 27 electronic databases and reference lists. Only English language human studies were included. Excluded were studies of electromagnetic fields, transcranial magnetic stimulation, magnets placed on acupuncture points, animal studies, abstr... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437615 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2437614&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F2%2F129%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2437614 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2437614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193975&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F123%3Frss%3D1 We examined how aromatherapy massage influenced psychologic and immunologic parameters in 12 breast cancer patients in an open semi-comparative trial. We compared the results 1 month before aromatherapy massage as a waiting control period with those during aromatherapy massage treatment and 1 month after the completion of aromatherapy sessions. The patients received a 30 min aromatherapy massage twice a week for 4 weeks (eight times in total). The results showed that anxiety was reduced in one 30 min aromatherapy massage in State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) test and also reduced in eight sequential aromatherapy massage sessions in the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) test. Our results further suggested that aromatherapy massage ameliorated the immunologic state. Further inve... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193975 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193974&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F113%3Frss%3D1 The antioxidant activity of four honey samples from different floral sources (Acacia, Coriander, Sider and Palm) were evaluated with three different assays; DPPH free radical scavenging assay, superoxide anion generated in xanthine–xanthine oxidase (XOD) system and low density lipoprotein (LDL) peroxidation assay. The dark Palm and Sider honeys had the highest antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay. But all the honey samples exhibited more or less the same highly significant antioxidant activity within the concentration of 1mg honey/1 ml in XOD system and LDL peroxidation assays. The chemical composition of these samples was investigated by GC/MS and HPLC analysis, 11 compounds being new to honey. The GC/MS revealed the presence of 90 compounds, mainly aliphatic acids (37 compounds),... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193974 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193973&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F107%3Frss%3D1 In this article, we studied how meditation affects the characteristics of the cardiovascular system, mainly based on blood pressure waveforms (BPW). Four parameters derived from BPW include the rising slope (h1/t1), normalized height of T wave (h3/h1), normalized height of V3 valley (h4/h1) and normalized height of D wave (h5/h1), where t1 and hi, i = 1, ... ,5 are quantitative features of the BPW waveform pattern. A larger value of h1/t1 reflects better heart ejection ability and aorta compliance. A larger value of h3/h1 may infer an arterial system with good elasticity. The decrease (increase) of h4/h1 parameter indicates the decrease (increase) of peripheral resistance of vessels. A larger value of h5/h1 indicates better artery elasticity and aortic valve function. In comparison with th... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193973 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193972&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F99%3Frss%3D1 We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) by performing a meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs comparing CHM vs no treatment, placebo, conventional western medicine (CWM), or general non-specific surgical treatment for DUB were identified by electronic and manual searches. Trials of CHM treatments with CWM treatments were compared with CWM treatments alone. Jadad scale and allocation concealment were used to assess the quality of included studies. Four RCTs or quasi-RCTs involving 525 patients were included. The methodological quality was poor in all trials except one trial. No serious adverse events were reported in the included studies. With the lack of trials ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193972 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193971&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F91%3Frss%3D1 The herb feverfew is a folk remedy for various symptoms including inflammation. Inflammation has recently been implicated in the genesis of many diseases including cancers, atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The mechanisms of action of feverfew in the human body are largely unknown. To determine the cellular targets of feverfew extracts, we have utilized oligo microarrays to study the gene expression profiles elicited by feverfew extracts in human monocytic THP-1 cells. We have identified 400 genes that are consistently regulated by feverfew extracts. Most of the genes are involved in cellular metabolism. However, the genes undergoing the highest degree of change by feverfew treatment are involved in other pathways including chemokine function, water homeostasis and heme-mediated si... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193971 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193970&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F85%3Frss%3D1 Substantial evidence suggests that the behavioral and reinforcing effects of cocaine can be mediated by the central dopaminergic systems. Repeated injections of cocaine produce an increase in locomotor activity and the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the main dopaminergic areas. Protoberberine alkaloids affect neuronal functions. Coptidis rhizoma (CR) and its main compound, berberine (BER) reduced the dopamine content in the central nervous system. In order to investigate the effects of CR or BER on the repeated cocaine-induced neuronal and behavioral alterations, we examined the influence of CR or BER on the repeated cocaine-induced locomotor activity and the expression of TH in the brain by using immunohistochemistry. Male SD rats were given repeated injections of saline or co... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193970 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193969&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F77%3Frss%3D1 We examined how acupuncture affected the blood flow of muscle, kidney, stomach, small intestine, brain, lung, heart, spleen and liver. Wistar rats anesthetized with urethane (n = 27) were allocated into the control (n = 10), ST-7 (Hsia-Kuan, n = 10) and LI-4 (Hoku, n = 7) groups. To measure organ blood flow, colored microspheres (CMS) were injected through a catheter positioned in the left ventricle and blood samples were drawn from the femoral artery. Yellow CMS (3.6–4.2 x 105) and blue CMS (6.0–6.9 x 105) were injected at intervals of about 30 min. An acupuncture needle ( 340 µm) was inserted into the left ST-7 point (left masseter muscle) or the right LI-4 point after the first sampling and left for about 30 min (10 twists at 1 Hz, 2-min intervals). The mean blood flow... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193969 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193968&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F65%3Frss%3D1 To examine if a potentized homeopathic drug, Natrum Sulphuricum 200 (Nat Sulph-200) has protective potentials against hepatocarcinogenesis, liver tumors were induced in mice through chronic feeding of P-dimethylaminoazobenzene (p-DAB; initiator of hepatocarcinogenesis) and phenobarbital (PB; promoter). Mice were divided into five sub-groups: fed normal low protein diet (Gr. I, normal control); fed normal low protein plus alcohol-200 (vehicle of the homeopathic remedy) (Gr. II); fed diet mixed with 0.06% p-DAB plus 0.05% PB (Gr. III); fed diet and carcinogens like Gr.III, plus alcohol 200 (positive control for drug fed mice) (Gr. IV) and fed diet and carcinogens like Gr. III, plus Natrum Sulphuiricum-200 (Gr. V; drug fed). Mice were sacrificed at day 7, 15, 30, 60, 90 and day 120 for study ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193968 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193967&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F57%3Frss%3D1 Moutan Cortex, a widely used traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of various diseases, is the root bark of Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews (Paeoniaceae). Most of the pharmacological investigations of Moutan Cortex have been addressed to its central nervous system activities, anti-oxidative and sedative actions. Otherwise, there are few reports about the active compounds with anti-inflammatory activity of Moutan Cortex. The aim of the present study was to screen and identify bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory effect from Moutan Cortex. With the aid of preparative high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique, ethyl acetate and ethanol extract of Moutan Cortex were isolated into twenty-two fractions. Bioactivities of these fractions were evaluated by measuring expres... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193967 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193966&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F51%3Frss%3D1 We explored the neurochemical mechanism of electroacupuncture's (EA) protective effect on brain function in focal cerebral ischemia rats, using cerebral ischemia/reperfusion rats established by the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: Sham, Sham+EA, MCAO and MCAO+EA. The rats in Sham+EA and MCAO+EA were accepted EA treatment at ‘GV26’ and ‘GV20’ acupoints for 30 min. Electric stimulation was produced by a G-6805 generator and neurological deficit scores were recorded. Mitochondria respiratory function and the activities of respiratory enzymes were measured by a computer-aided Clark oxygen electrode system. Results showed that EA treatment might reduce the neurological deficit sco... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193966 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193965&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F49%3Frss%3D1 The most recent massage therapy (MT) study by Hernandez-Reif et al. displays flaws persistent in this area of research that are attributable to MT researchers’ frequent mistake of using within-group analyses of dependent variables in studies that are purported to be randomized control trials. This practise violates the logic of using randomization to create treatment and control groups, and thereby fails to control for the validity threats of spontaneous remission, placebo effects, and statistical regression. The result is that a clear understanding of what MT can and cannot do is seriously hampered. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193965 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193964&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F41%3Frss%3D1 The aim of this systematic review was to summarize randomized clinical trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture as published in Korean literature. Systematic searches were conducted on eight Korean medical databases. Manual searches were also conducted through eight major Korean medical journals. The methodological quality was assessed using a Jadad score. Studies evaluating needle acupuncture or auricular acupuncture (AA) with or without electrical stimulation were considered if they were sham or placebo-controlled or controlled against a comparative intervention. We also excluded acupuncture as an adjuvant to other treatments and other forms of acupuncture were excluded. Seven hundred and nine possibly relevant studies were identified and 10 RCTs were included. The method... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193964 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193963&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F31%3Frss%3D1 The biological effects of acupuncture include the regulation of a variety of neurohumoral factors and growth control factors. In science, models or hypotheses with confirmed predictions are considered more convincing than models solely based on retrospective explanations. Literature review showed that two biological models of acupuncture have been prospectively tested with independently confirmed predictions: The neurophysiology model on the long-term effects of acupuncture emphasizes the trophic and anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture. Its prediction on the peripheral effect of endorphin in acupuncture has been confirmed. The growth control model encompasses the neurophysiology model and suggests that a macroscopic growth control system originates from a network of organizers in embr... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193963 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193962&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F19%3Frss%3D1 In Europe many cancer patients use complementary therapies, particularly mistletoe. Only a few controlled clinical trials have been performed with the mistletoe preparation Iscador as a complementary treatment for cancer, many of them with medium to low quality due to methodological shortcomings. Reasons for some quality concerns, particularly discontinuation of treatment and/or participation and premature termination are analyzed. Analysis is based on controlled clinical trials dealing with Iscador. Data stem from the archive of published and ongoing research of the «Verein für Krebsforschung» (Society for Cancer Research) in Arlesheim, Switzerland. Controlled clinical studies with cancer patients that were started after 01.01.1990 or were not completed by then have been ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193962 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193961&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F11%3Frss%3D1 The mechanism of acupuncture analgesia (AA) is one of the most widely researched topics in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) based on modern medical methodology. Endogenous opioid-mediated mechanisms of acupuncture have been well established since the 1970s. In this review, we have covered the progress of AA research by Japanese investigators. In particular, we have reviewed the physiological basis of analgesic effects induced by acupuncture and moxibustion, including the actions of endogenous opioid and diffuse noxious inhibitory controls (DNICs), and the afferent fibers participating in acupuncture and moxibustion stimuli are discussed. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193961 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193960&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F3%3Frss%3D1 Dysautonomia refers to a disease where the autonomic nervous system is dysfunctional. This may be a central control mechanism, as in genetically determined familial dysautonomia (Riley-Day Syndrome), or peripherally in the distribution of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. There are multiple reports of a number of different diseases associated with dysautonomia. The etiology of this association has never been explained. There are also multiple publications on dysautonomia associated with specific non-caloric nutritional deficiencies. Beriberi is the prototype of autonomic dysfunction. It is the best known nutritional deficiency disease caused by an imbalance between ingested calories and the vitamins required for their oxidation, particularly thiamin. Long thought to be abolished... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193960 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2193959&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F6%2F1%2F1%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2193959 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2193959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978971&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F493%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978971 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978970&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F491%3Frss%3D1 (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978970 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978969&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F481%3Frss%3D1 In conclusion, the safety of Japanese acupuncture or moxibustion was sufficiently demonstrated; however, a series of clinical trials could not offer convincing evidence to recommend the use of Japanese style acupuncture or moxibustion for preventing the common cold. Further studies are required as the present trials had several limitations. (Source: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978969 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978968&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F475%3Frss%3D1 This study aimed to investigate the practice of apitherapy - using bee products such as honey, pollen, propolis, royal jelly and bee venom to prevent or treat illness and promote healing - among German beekeepers and to evaluate their experiences with these therapies. A questionnaire incorporating two instruments on beekeepers’ physical and mental health and working practice was included in three German beekeeping journals and readers were asked to complete it. The instrument included questions on the use of apitherapy. Simple descriptive methods, bivariate correlation, cross-tabulation and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Altogether 1059 completed questionnaires were received. The beekeepers reported the most effective and favorable therapeutic effects with honey, follow... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978968 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978967&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F463%3Frss%3D1 ‘Oketsu’ is a pathophysiologic concept in Japanese traditional (Kampo) medicine, primarily denoting blood stasis/stagnant syndrome. Here we have explored plasma protein biomarkers and/or diagnostic algorithms for ‘Oketsu’. Sixteen rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients were treated with keishibukuryogan (KBG), a representative Kampo medicine for improving ‘Oketsu’. Plasma samples were diagnosed as either having an ‘Oketsu’ (n = 19) or ‘non-Oketsu’ (n = 29) state according to Terasawa's ‘Oketsu’ scoring system. Protein profiles were obtained by surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF MS) and hierarchical clustering and decision tree analyses were performed. KBG treatment for ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978967 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978966&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F457%3Frss%3D1 We investigated the effects of tai chi on disease activity, flexibility and depression in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). We allocated 40 patients to either a tai chi treatment group or a no-treatment control group. The tai chi group performed 60 min of tai chi twice weekly for eight consecutive weeks and 8 weeks of home-based tai chi, after which the group showed significant improvement in disease activity and flexibility compared to the control group. All outcome measures were significantly lower in the tai chi group than they were during pre-treatment, while they did not change in the control group. These findings suggest that tai chi can improve disease activity and flexibility for patients with AS. Tai chi is an easily accessible therapy for patients and, as such, may be an... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978966 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978965&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F451%3Frss%3D1 The objectives of this study are: (i) to determine subpopulation rates of patient–physician communication about herbal product and natural supplement use and (ii) to identify the relative influence of patient factors and interaction factors associated with patient-physician communication about herb and supplement use. Logistic secondary analysis was done by using the complementary and alternative medicine supplement of the 2002 National Health Interview Survey. Subjects were a random stratified sample of US adults who used herbs in the past 12 months (n = 5 196) and self-reported rates of disclosure to physicians about herb and supplement use. Results show that disclosure rates were significantly lower for males, younger adults, racial and ethnic minorities and less intensive users o... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978965 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1978964&cid=s_31813_8_f&fid=31813&url=http%3A%2F%2Fecam.oxfordjournals.org%2Fcgi%2Fcontent%2Fshort%2F5%2F4%2F443%3Frss%3D1 This article describes design considerations, development and testing of a single channel skin impedance system (hardware, control software and customized electrodes). The system was tested for accuracy against known resistors and capacitors. Two electrodes (the AMI and the ORI) were compared for reliability of recording over 30 min. Two APs (LU 9 and PC 6) and a nearby non-AP site were measured simultaneously in four individuals for 60 min. Our measurement system performed accurately (within 5%) against known resistors (580 k–10 M) and capacitors (10 nF–150 nF). Both the AMI electrode and the modified ORI electrode recorded skin impedance reliably on the volar surface of the forearm (r = 0.87 and r = 0.79, respectively). In four of four volunteers tested, skin impedance at LU ... Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1978964 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1978964