Advanced Acupuncture Research: From Bench to Bedside: From bench to bedside

About the Editor
About the Associate Editors
Editorial Board Members
Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Contents
Contributors
Histopathological Basis for Acupuncture
	1	 Introduction: Cutaneous Histology for Acupuncture
		1.1	 Acupuncture Therapy and Needles
		1.2	 Acupuncture Effects on the Skin
		1.3	 Skin Layers and Thickness
		1.4	 Acupuncture-Reachable Tissues and Cells
	2	 Natural Pathological Experiments for Acupuncture (NPEA)
		2.1	 Natural Experiments
		2.2	 NPEA Case Selection for Acupuncture Research
		2.3	 The List and Index of NPEA Conditions
	3	 NPEA Conditions
		3.1	 Angioleiomyoma
			3.1.1	 Histological Photos
			3.1.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.1.3	 Medical Definition
			3.1.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.1.5	 Histological Features
			3.1.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.1.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.2	 Arthropod Bite
			3.2.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.2.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.2.3	 Medical Definition
			3.2.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.2.5	 Histological Features
			3.2.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.2.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.3	 Basal Cell Carcinoma
			3.3.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.3.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.3.3	 Medical Definition
			3.3.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.3.5	 Histological Features
			3.3.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.3.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.4	 Calcinosis Cutis
			3.4.1	 Histological Photos
			3.4.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.4.3	 Medical Definition
			3.4.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.4.5	 Histological Features
			3.4.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.4.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.5	 Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis
			3.5.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.5.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.5.3	 Medical Definition
			3.5.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.5.5	 Histological Features
			3.5.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.5.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.6	 Dermatofibroma
			3.6.1	 Histological Photos
			3.6.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.6.3	 Medical Definition
			3.6.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.6.5	 Histological Features
			3.6.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.6.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.7	 Eczema and Allergic Contact Dermatitis
			3.7.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.7.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.7.3	 Medical Definition
			3.7.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.7.5	 Histological Features
			3.7.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.7.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.8	 Endometriosis
			3.8.1	 Histological Photos
			3.8.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.8.3	 Medical Definition
			3.8.4	 Note: Theories of Mechanisms
			3.8.5	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.8.6	 Histological Features
			3.8.7	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.8.8	 Significance and Indication
		3.9	 Epidermal Cyst (Cyst)
			3.9.1	 Histological Photos
			3.9.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.9.3	 Medical Definition
			3.9.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.9.5	 Histological Features
			3.9.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.9.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.10	 Fibroma (Skin Tag)
			3.10.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.10.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.10.3	 Medical Definition
			3.10.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.10.5	 Histological Features
			3.10.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.10.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.11	 Folliculitis (Acne)
			3.11.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.11.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.11.3	 Medical Definition
			3.11.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.11.5	 Histological Features
			3.11.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.11.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.12	 Frostbite (Pernio and Chilblains)
			3.12.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.12.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.12.3	 Medical Definition
			3.12.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.12.5	 Histological Features
			3.12.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.12.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.13	 Glomus Tumor
			3.13.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.13.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.13.3	 Medical Definition
			3.13.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.13.5	 Histological Features
			3.13.6	 Note: Glomus Body
			3.13.7	 Note: Three Tests for Diagnosing Glomus Tumors
			3.13.8	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.13.9	 Significance and Indication
		3.14	 Granular Cell Tumor
			3.14.1	 Histological Photos
			3.14.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.14.3	 Medical Definition
			3.14.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.14.5	 Histological Features
			3.14.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.14.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.15	 Heat Damage (Erythema Ab Igne, Hot Water Bottle Rash)
			3.15.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.15.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.15.3	 Medical Definition
			3.15.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.15.5	 Histological Features
			3.15.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.15.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.16	 Hemangioma
			3.16.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.16.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.16.3	 Medical Definition
			3.16.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.16.5	 Histological Features
			3.16.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.16.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.17	 Hemorrhage (Bruise, Hematoma)
			3.17.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.17.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.17.3	 Medical Definition
			3.17.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.17.5	 Histological Features
			3.17.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.17.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.18	 Hemorrhoids
			3.18.1	 Diagram and Histological Photos
			3.18.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.18.3	 Medical Definition
			3.18.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.18.5	 Histological Features
			3.18.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.18.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.19	 Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis and Histiocytic Tumors
			3.19.1	 Histological Photos
			3.19.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.19.3	 Medical Definition
			3.19.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.19.5	 Histological Features
			3.19.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.19.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.20	 Leiomyoma
			3.20.1	 Histological Photos
			3.20.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.20.3	 Medical Definition
			3.20.4	 Note: Arrector Muscle
			3.20.5	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.20.6	 Histological Features
			3.20.7	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.20.8	 Significance and Indication
		3.21	 Lichen Simplex Chronicus (Picker’s Nodule, Prurigo Nodularis)
			3.21.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.21.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.21.3	 Medical Definition
			3.21.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.21.5	 Histological Features
			3.21.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.21.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.22	 Lipoma (Angiolipoma)
			3.22.1	 Histological Photos
			3.22.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.22.3	 Medical Definition
			3.22.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.22.5	 Histological Features
			3.22.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.22.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.23	 Mastocytoma
			3.23.1	 Histological Photos
			3.23.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.23.3	 Medical Definition
			3.23.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.23.5	 Histological Features
			3.23.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.23.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.24	 Mastocytosis and Urticaria Pigmentosa
			3.24.1	 Histological Photos
			3.24.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.24.3	 Medical Definition
			3.24.4	 Note: Signs on Physical Examination
			3.24.5	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.24.6	 Histological Features
			3.24.7	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.24.8	 Significance and Indication
		3.25	 Melanocytic Nevus
			3.25.1	 Histological Photos
			3.25.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.25.3	 Medical Definition
			3.25.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.25.5	 Histological Features
			3.25.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.25.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.26	 Melanoma
			3.26.1	 Histological Photos
			3.26.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.26.3	 Medical Definition
			3.26.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.26.5	 Histological Features
			3.26.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.26.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.27	 Metastatic Cancer
			3.27.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.27.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.27.3	 Medical Definition
			3.27.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.27.5	 Histological Features
			3.27.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.27.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.28	 Neurofibroma
			3.28.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.28.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.28.3	 Medical Definition
			3.28.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.28.5	 Histological Features
			3.28.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.28.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.29	 Neuroma
			3.29.1	 Histological Photos
			3.29.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.29.3	 Medical Definition
			3.29.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.29.5	 Histological Features
			3.29.6	 Note: Sensory Receptors
			3.29.7	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.29.8	 Significance and Indication
		3.30	 Osteroma Cutis
			3.30.1	 Histological Photos
			3.30.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.30.3	 Medical Definition
			3.30.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.30.5	 Histological Features
			3.30.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.30.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.31	 Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
			3.31.1	 Histological Photos
			3.31.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.31.3	 Medical Definition
			3.31.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.31.5	 Histological Features
			3.31.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.31.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.32	 Psoriasis
			3.32.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.32.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.32.3	 Medical Definition
			3.32.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.32.5	 Histological Features
			3.32.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.32.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.33	 Pyogenic Granuloma
			3.33.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.33.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.33.3	 Medical Definition
			3.33.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.33.5	 Histological Features
			3.33.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.33.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.34	 Scar and Keloid
			3.34.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.34.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.34.3	 Medical Definition
			3.34.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.34.5	 Histological Features
			3.34.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.34.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.35	 Sebaceous Adenoma
			3.35.1	 Histological Photos
			3.35.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.35.3	 Medical Definition
			3.35.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.35.5	 Histological Features
			3.35.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.35.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.36	 Seborrheic Keratosis
			3.36.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.36.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.36.3	 Medical Definition
			3.36.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.36.5	 Histological Features
			3.36.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.36.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.37	 Solar Keratosis (Actinic Keratosis)
			3.37.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.37.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.37.3	 Medical Definition
			3.37.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.37.5	 Histological Features
			3.37.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.37.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.38	 Spiradenoma
			3.38.1	 Histological Photos
			3.38.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.38.3	 Medical Definition
			3.38.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.38.5	 Histological Features
			3.38.6	 Note: Sweat Glands
			3.38.7	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.38.8	 Significance and Indication
		3.39	 Squamous Cell Carcinoma
			3.39.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.39.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.39.3	 Medical Definition
			3.39.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.39.5	 Histological Features
			3.39.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.39.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.40	 Stasis (Stasis Dermatitis)
			3.40.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.40.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.40.3	 Medical Definition
			3.40.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.40.5	 Histological Features
			3.40.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.40.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.41	 Suture and Suture Granuloma
			3.41.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.41.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.41.3	 Medical Definition
			3.41.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.41.5	 Histological Features
			3.41.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.41.7	 Significance and Indication
			3.41.8	 Note: Other Foreign Bodies
		3.42	 Schwannoma (Neurilemmoma)
			3.42.1	 Histological Photos
			3.42.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.42.3	 Medical Definition
			3.42.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.42.5	 Histological Features
			3.42.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.42.7	 Significance and Indication
			3.42.8	 Note: Myelin Sheath Cells
		3.43	 Tattoo
			3.43.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.43.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.43.3	 Medical Definition
			3.43.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.43.5	 Histological Features
			3.43.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.43.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.44	 Ulcer (Burn)
			3.44.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.44.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.44.3	 Medical Definition
			3.44.4	 Four Degrees of Burns
			3.44.5	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.44.6	 Histological Features
			3.44.7	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.44.8	 Significance and Indication
		3.45	 Urticaria (Hives)
			3.45.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.45.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.45.3	 Medical Definition
			3.45.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.45.5	 Histological Features
			3.45.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.45.7	 Significance and Indication
		3.46	 Verruca (Wart)
			3.46.1	 Clinical and Histological Photos
			3.46.2	 Age, Sex, and Location
			3.46.3	 Medical Definition
			3.46.4	 Pathological Diagnosis
			3.46.5	 Histological Features
			3.46.6	 Acupuncture Relevance
			3.46.7	 Significance and Indication
	4	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Current Advances in Mathematical Models of Initial Response to Mechanical Stimulation at Acupoint
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Methods
		2.1	 Cross-Membrane Ion Current
		2.2	 Ca2+ Release from ER
		2.3	 Ca2+ Dynamics
		2.4	 Secondary Messengers’ Cascade
		2.5	 ECS Transport
		2.6	 Nerve Cells Model
		2.7	 Calculation and Parameters
	3	 Results
		3.1	 Single-Cell Response to Stimuli
		3.2	 Mast Cell Network Response to Mechanical Stimuli at Acupoint
		3.3	 Nerve Cell Response to Bio-mediators Released from Activated MCs
		3.4	 Stability Analysis of the Neuron Model
	4	 Discussion
		4.1	 Mechanical Stimuli Activate Signaling Pathway Coupling MS Channels (TRPV2) to Ca2+ Fluxes and Biomedical Messengers’ Release in MCs
		4.2	 Biological Responses Activated by Mechanical Stimuli Can Propagate in MCs Network Due to Diffusion and Convection in ECS
		4.3	 MC Network May Play a Key Role in Response to Mechanical Treatment in TCM
		4.4	 Electroneurographic Signal Startup and Transmission in the Nerve Cell Networks Induced by Acupuncture
		4.5	 The Interaction of MC and Nerve Cell Plays a Key Role in Response to Mechanical Treatment in TCM
	5	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Signal Transduction in Acupoints
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Structure of Acupoints
		2.1	 Acupoint Specificity-Chemical Elements
		2.2	 Acupoint Specificity-Capillary
		2.3	 Acupoint Specificity-Infrared Radiation
		2.4	 Acupoint Specificity Distribution and the Number of Mast Cells
			2.4.1	 Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Mast Cells in Rat Skin
			2.4.2	 Distribution Characteristics of Mast Cells Around Hair Follicles and Blood Vessels
			2.4.3	 Distribution Characteristics of Mast Cells Around Nerves
			2.4.4	 Distribution Characteristics of Mast Cells in Adipose Tissue and Muscle Tissue
		2.5	 Specificity of Acupoint Function: Effect of Acupuncture on the Heart Rate
			2.5.1	 Differences in the Adjustment Effect of EA Applied at Different Acupoints and Body Surface Points on the Heart Rate
			2.5.2	 Differences in the Number and Degranulation Rate of Mast Cells in Different Acupoints and Reference Points
			2.5.3	 Differences in the Trend and Degree of Changes in the Adenosine Concentration Triggered by EA at Different Acupoints and Reference Points
	3	 Role of Mast Cells at Acupoints
		3.1	 Physiological Functions of Mast Cells
		3.2	 Inhibitory Effect of Sodium Cromolyn in Mast Cell Degranulation
		3.3	 Correlation Between Mast Cell Activation and the Acupuncture Effect
			3.3.1	 Activation of Mast Cells at Acupoints During Analgesia Caused by Acupuncture
			3.3.2	 Mast Cells and Heart Sympathetic Activity
			3.3.3	 Correlation of Mast Cell Degranulation and Cardiac Sympathetic Nerve Activity Under Different Treatment Factors
			3.3.4	 Activation of Mast Cells in Acupoints During Acupuncture Treatment in a Rabbit Myocardial Ischemia Model
			3.3.5	 Activation of Mast Cells at Acupoints During Acupuncture Treatment of Gastrointestinal Dysfunction
			3.3.6	 Mechanical Stimulation of Acupuncture Leads to Activation of Mast Cell Collagenase
	4	 Mechanical Sensitivity of Mast Cells
		4.1	 Brief Introduction of Mechanosensitive Ion Channels and Molecular Dynamics Models
		4.2	 Expression Characteristics of TRPV2 Ion Channels
		4.3	 Pressure, Osmotic Pressure, and Shear Stress Activate Mast Cells Through TRPV2
		4.4	 The Analgesic Effect of Acupuncture in TRPV2KO Mice Is Inhibited
		4.5	 EA Effect on Heart Rate Variability in TRPV2KO Mice
		4.6	 Other Mechanically Sensitive Channels on Mast Cell Membranes: TRPV4 and Cl Ion Channels
	5	 Chemical Signaling of Mast Cells in Acupuncture
		5.1	 Increased Local Adenosine Concentration in Acupoints During Acupuncture in Rats, Mice, and Humans
		5.2	 Adenosine Mediates Acupuncture Analgesia via the A1 Receptor
		5.3	 Sodium Cromolyn Inhibits the Increase in the Local Adenosine Concentration Caused by Acupuncture
		5.4	 Sodium Cromolyn Does Not Inhibit the Analgesia Caused by A1 Agonists
		5.5	 Acupoint Injection of Histamine Induces an Analgesic Effect
		5.6	 Histamine H1 Receptor Is Involved in the Analgesic Effect
		5.7	 Histamine H1 Agonist and Adenosine A1 Receptor Agonist Injection Causes the Release of Endorphins in Cerebrospinal Fluid
	6	 Neural Signaling at Acupoints
		6.1	 Effect of Nerve Block on the Analgesic Effect Induced by Acupuncture
		6.2	 Sodium Cromolyn Inhibits Sciatic Nerve Discharge Caused by Acupuncture
		6.3	 Acupuncture Application and Histamine Injection in Acupoints Increased Discharge of the Spinal Dorsal Root Nerve
		6.4	 Effect of Acupuncture on Sympathetic Renal Discharge in Model Rats
		6.5	 Effect of Acupuncture on the Cardiac Sympathetic Nerves of Model Rats
	7	 Conclusions and Perspectives
		7.1	 Local Initiation-Mechanism Diagram
		7.2	 Targeted Regulation-Mechanism Diagram
		7.3	 Perspectives
	References
Cellular Mechanisms in Acupuncture Effects
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Role of Ion-Channel Activation by Acupuncture
		2.1	 The TRPV Channels
		2.2	 Strech-Acitivated Cl− Channels
	3	 Purinergic Signalling in Acupuncture Effects
		3.1	 Mechanical-Stress-Induced ATP Release
		3.2	 Noxious Heat-Induced ATP Release
		3.3	 Laser Irradiation-Induced ATP Release
	4	 Role of Neurotransmitter Transporters in Pain Suppression by Acupuncture
		4.1	 Interaction of the Glutamate Transporter EAAC1 and Co-expressed δ-Opioid Receptors
		4.2	 Interaction of the GABA Transporter GAT1 and Co-expressed δ-Opioid Receptors
	5	 Effects of Drugs on Membrane Transporters Modulated by Acupuncture
		5.1	 CyPA as an Acupuncture-Induced Inhibitor of Na+/Ca2+ Exchanger
		5.2	 Effects of Chinese Herbal Drugs
			5.2.1	 Na+/Ca2+ Exchanger
			5.2.2	 Neurotransmitter Transporters
			5.2.3	 Ion Channels
	6	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Chemical and Physical Characteristics of Moxibustion
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application of Moxibustion
	3	 Mechanism Study of Moxibustion
		3.1	 Pharmacological Action of Moxibustion
		3.2	 Thermal Effect of Moxibustion
		3.3	 The Infrared Physical Characteristics and Effects of Moxibustion
		3.4	 The Effects of Laser Moxibustion Irradiation
			3.4.1	 The Efficacy of Laser Moxibustion on Bradycardia-Model Rabbits
			3.4.2	 The Effect of Laser Moxibustion in a 5-Fu-Induced Diarrhea Rat Model
			3.4.3	 The Efficacy of Laser Moxibustion on Osteoarthritis
	4	 Concluding Comments
	References
Imaging of Acupuncture’s Effects
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Imaging Investigations of Acupuncture’s Effects
		2.1	 Ultrasonography
		2.2	 Magnetoencephalography
		2.3	 Infrared Thermography
		2.4	 Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS)
		2.5	 Fluorescence Imaging
		2.6	 Nanomolecular Imaging
		2.7	 Photoacoustic Imaging (PAI)
		2.8	 Electroencephalogram (EEG)
		2.9	 Neural Circuit Technology
			2.9.1	 Optogenetic Technology
			2.9.2	 Neural Circuits Tracing and Manipulation of Viruses
			2.9.3	 Calcium Imaging
			2.9.4	 Implantable Nerve Electrodes Made from Novel Materials
			2.9.5	 Novel Molecular Fluorescent Probes
		2.10	 3D In Vitro Tissue Clearing
	3	 Future Directions and Prospects
	References
Meridians – Neurosensory Organs Within the System of Homeostatic Regulation
	1	 Introduction: The Hidden Rationale of Chinese Medicine Lies in Its Circles
	2	 Clinical Application: Understanding the Diagnosis of CM
		2.1	 The Centre, Earth, and the Power of Regulation
		2.2	 Further Patterns and Their Meridians
		2.3	 Chinese Medicine Is Based on an Even More Complex Technical Scientific System
	3	 Mechanistic Research
	4	 Conclusion
	References
The Meridian–Viscera Correlationship: Theory and Mechanisms of Heart Meridian–Heart–Brain Interactions
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Scientific Fundamentals and Progress of MVC Research
		2.1	 Morphological Support for the MVC
		2.2	 Research on Meridian Phenomena
			2.2.1	 Propagated Sensation Along Channels
			2.2.2	 Physical Phenomena of Meridians
			2.2.3	 Magnetic Properties of Meridians
			2.2.4	 Acoustic Characteristics of Meridians
			2.2.5	 Characteristics of Meridians Based on the Organizational Structure
			2.2.6	 Chemical Ion Distribution Along Meridians
			2.2.7	 Research on Drug Response of Point and the MVC
			2.2.8	 Molecular Biological Studies on the MVC
			2.2.9	 Other Studies on Meridians
		2.3	 Modern Scientific Basic Research on the MVC
			2.3.1	 Forms of Contact with Body Organs
			2.3.2	 Neurological Mechanisms of the MVC
			2.3.3	 The Sympathetic Nervous System and Correlation of Meridians, Vessels, and Intestines
			2.3.4	Limbic-Hypothalamus- Autonomic Nervous System Regulation and MVC
			2.3.5	 Research on the Relative Specificity of the MVC
	3	 Interactions Among the Heart Meridian, Heart, and Brain
		3.1	 The Heart Dominates the Spirit, or the Brain Controls It, and the Heart–Brain Interaction
			3.1.1	 “God” and “Mind” and “Brain”
			3.1.2	 The Function of Running Blood and Qi, Regulation of the Yin and Yang of Meridians, and Relations to the Viscera and Brain
		3.2	 Progress of Research on Biological Mechanisms of Heart–Brain Connections
			3.2.1	 Anatomical Basis of Heart–Brain Connections
			3.2.2	 Biophysical Basis of Heart–Brain Connections
			3.2.3	 Interaction of the Heart and Brain Injury
		3.3	 Mechanism of the Impact of Heart Meridian Acupuncture on the Heart and Brain
			3.3.1	 Neuroimaging Study on Activation of Brain Regions by Heart Meridian Acupuncture
			3.3.2	 Neurotransmitter Regulation by Heart Meridian Acupuncture
			3.3.3	 Heart Meridian Acupuncture Regulates Expression of Different Proteins in the Heart and Brain
			3.3.4	 Specific Correlative Studies on Heart Meridian Acupuncture in Regulating Event-Related Potentials
			3.3.5	 Influence of Heart Meridian Acupuncture on Central Nerve Pathways and Circuit Conduction
	4	 Key Problems and Perspectives in the Study of Meridians
	5	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Autonomic Function and Electroacupuncture
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Mechanistic Experimental Research
		2.1	 Cardiovascular Responses and Acupuncture Stimulation
			2.1.1	 Hypertension
			2.1.2	 Hypotension
	3	 Gastrointestinal Regulation and Acupuncture Therapy
		3.1	 Constipation
	4	 Pulmonary Vasculature and Acupuncture
		4.1	 Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling
	5	 Clinical Application
		5.1	 Cardiovascular Responses and Acupuncture Stimulation
			5.1.1	 Hypertension
			5.1.2	 Hypotension
	6	 Gastrointestinal Regulation and Acupuncture Therapy
		6.1	 Constipation
	7	 Pulmonary Vasculature and Acupuncture
		7.1	 Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling
	8	 Conclusion and Perspectives
	References
Understanding of Myofascial Trigber Points: Acupuncture vs Dry Needling
	1	 Introduction
		1.1	 The Difference Between Traditional Acupuncture and Dry Needling
		1.2	 The Graphic Taut Band, Referred Pain and Local Twitch Response (Muscle Jump)
	2	 Major Issues of Acupuncture Versus DN
	3	 Future Developments
	4	 Conclusion
	References
Current Research in Silver Needle Acupuncture for Myofascitis
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application
		2.1	 Silver Needle Acupuncture
		2.2	 Clinical Efficacy of Silver Needles for Myofascitis
			2.2.1	 Cervical Myofascitis
			2.2.2	 Lumbar Myofascitis
			2.2.3	 Plantar Fasciitis
			2.2.4	 Fasciitis of Other Body Areas
		2.3	 Existing Problems
		2.4	 Comments
	3	 Mechanistic Studies
		3.1	 Nomenclature of Myofascitis
		3.2	 Silver Needle Acupuncture and Myofascitis
		3.3	 Myofascitis and Spinal Soft Tissue Injuries
		3.4	 Action Mechanism of Silver Needles for Spinal Soft Tissue Injuries
			3.4.1	 Elimination of Aseptic Inflammation
			3.4.2	 Elimination of Muscle Spasm and Alleviation of Contracture
			3.4.3	 Thermal Effect
			3.4.4	 Analgesic Effect
	4	 About Silver Needle Acupuncture
		4.1	 Structure of Silver Needles
		4.2	 Insertion of Silver Needles
		4.3	 Heating of Silver Needles
			4.3.1	 External Heating
			4.3.2	 Internal Heating
		4.4	 Body Parts of Silver Needle Acupuncture
	5	 Indications and Contraindications of Silver Needles
		5.1	 Indications
			5.1.1	 Chronic Pain Caused by Soft Tissue Injuries in the Neck or Low Back Pain in the Neck
			5.1.2	 Soft Tissue Injuries Affecting Nerves and Blood Vessels
			5.1.3	 Soft Tissue Injuries Affecting the Internal Organs
		5.2	 Contraindications
	6	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Acupuncture in Supportive Care for Breast Cancer Survivors
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Cancer-Related Fatigue
		2.1	 Acupuncture
		2.2	 Moxibustion
		2.3	 Acupressure
		2.4	 Auricular Point Acupressure
		2.5	 Mechanisms for Acupuncture for CRF
	3	 Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
		3.1	 Acupuncture
		3.2	 Electroacupuncture
		3.3	 Mechanisms for Acupuncture for CIPN
	4	 Breast Cancer-Related Lymphoedema
		4.1	 Acupuncture
		4.2	 Moxibustion
		4.3	 Combination of Acupuncture and Moxibustion
		4.4	 Combination of Acupuncture and Cupping
		4.5	 Mechanisms for Acupuncture for Lymphedema
	5	 Hot Flashes
		5.1	 Acupuncture
		5.2	 Electroacupuncture
		5.3	 Mechanisms for Acupuncture for Hot Flashes
	6	 Aromatase Inhibitors Arthralgia
	7	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Alternative Therapies for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Understanding of CIPN
	3	 Alternative Therapies for CIPN
		3.1	 Acupuncture Therapy
			3.1.1	 Manual Acupuncture
			3.1.2	 Electroacupuncture
			3.1.3	 Pharmacopuncture/Acupoint Injection
			3.1.4	 Laser Acupuncture
			3.1.5	 Ultrasound Acupuncture
		3.2	 Herbal Medicines
			3.2.1	 Herbal Formulation
				Niuche Shenqi Wan (Chinese)/Goshajinkigan (Japanese)/Jesengsingi-Hwan (Korean)
				Shaoyao Gancao Tang (Chinese)/Shakuyakukanzoto (Japanese)/Jakyakgamcho-Tang (Korean)
				Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu Tang (AC591 Preparation)/Ogikeishigomotsuto (Japanese)
				Chinese Herbal Compound LC09
			3.2.2	 Single Herbs
				Radix Astragali
				Ginkgo Biloba
				Acorus Calamus
				Salvia
				Camellia sinensis (Green Tea)
				Cinnamomi Cortex
				Matricaria Chamomilla
			3.2.3	 Active Compounds
				Curcumin
				Cannabinoids
				Tetrahydropalmatine
				Auraptenol
				Flavonol (Rutin and Quercetin)
				Borneol
		3.3	 Exercise (Kinesiatrics)
		3.4	 Cryotherapy
		3.5	 Massage
		3.6	 Other Complementary Therapies
	4	 Potential Mechanisms
		4.1	 Acupuncture Therapy
		4.2	 Herbal Medicine
			4.2.1	 Neuroprotective Effect
			4.2.2	 Anti-inflammation
			4.2.3	 Antioxidative Stress
			4.2.4	 Ion Channel Regulation
			4.2.5	 Regulating Endogenous Pain Modulation System
			4.2.6	 Antitumor Activity
		4.3	 Physical Exercise
		4.4	 Other Complementary Therapies
	5	 Conclusion Remarks
	References
Acupuncture and Related Techniques for Perioperative Care of Surgical Patients
	1	 Introduction
		1.1	 History of Acupuncture
		1.2	 Acupuncture and Surgery
	2	 Clinical Application
		2.1	 The Progression of Clinical Acupuncture in Anesthesia
			2.1.1	 Acupuncture Anesthesia (AA)
			2.1.2	 Acupuncture-Assisted Anesthesia (AAA)
			2.1.3	 Combined Acupuncture-Medicine Anesthesia (CAMA)
			2.1.4	 Acupuncture-Drug Balance Anesthesia (ABA)
		2.2	 Clinical Acupuncture in Perioperative Setting as Part of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (Fig. 1)
			2.2.1	 Preoperative Anxiety
			2.2.2	 Optimize Surgical Patients Preoperatively
			2.2.3	 Reduce the Dosage of Intraoperative Anesthetics, Increase Organ Protection and Hemodynamic Stability
			2.2.4	 Effects on Postoperative Period
	3	 Mechanistic Research in Acupuncture
		3.1	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture in Reducing Preoperative Anxiety
		3.2	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture in Optimization of Organs Systems
			3.2.1	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture in Brain Protection
			3.2.2	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture in Lung Protection
			3.2.3	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture in Heart Protection
			3.2.4	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture in Regulating the Gastrointestinal System
		3.3	 The Mechanism of Acupuncture for Pain Management
	4	 Conclusion
	References
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis: A Bridge Between Acupuncture and Diseases
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Effect of EA on the HPA Axis Function in Clinical
	3	 The Underlying Mechanisms of EA on HPA Axis Function
		3.1	 Hypothalamus CRH and AVP
		3.2	 ACTH and GC
		3.3	 Adrenalectomy Affects Acupuncture’s Regulation of HPA Axis Function
	4	 Acupoints and EA Parameters in Regulation of EA’s Effect on HPA Axis Function
	5	 Conclusion
	References
Neurobiological Mechanism of Acupuncture Analgesia in Chronic Somatic Pain
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application of Acupuncture on Somatic Chronic Pain
	3	 Potential Mechanisms of Acupuncture Analgesia on Chronic Somatic Pain
		3.1	 Peripheral Mechanisms
			3.1.1	 Local Changes of Acupoints in Acupuncture Analgesia
			3.1.2	 Effect of Acupuncture on Nerve Conduction
			3.1.3	 Acupuncture Affects Dorsal Root Ganglion Function
			3.1.4	 Acupuncture Affects Endogenous Opioids and Their Receptors
		3.2	 Central Mechanisms
			3.2.1	 Endogenous Opioids, Cannabinoid, and Their Receptors
				Endogenous Opioids
				Acupuncture-Related Release of Endogenous Opioids
				Acupuncture and Opioid Receptors
				Endogenous Cannabinoid and Their Receptors
			3.2.2	 Endogenous Nociceptive Modulation System: Descending Inhibitory System
				Descending Serotonergic Pain Inhibitory Pathways
				Descending Noradrenergic Pain Inhibitory Pathways
			3.2.3	 Endogenous Nociceptive Modulation System: Descending Facilitatory System
			3.2.4	 Role of Spinal Glial Cells and Cytokines in Acupuncture Analgesia
		3.3	 Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous System in Acupuncture Anti-inflammatory Effects
			3.3.1	 Acupuncture Anti-inflammation and Parasympathetic Nervous System
			3.3.2	 Acupuncture Anti-inflammatory Effects and Sympathetic Nervous System
	4	 Conclusion
	References
Analgesic Effects of Acupuncture on Orofacial Pain
	1	 Introduction
		1.1	 Overview of Orofacial Pain
		1.2	 Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges
	2	 Mechanisms of Orofacial Pain
		2.1	 Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)
			2.1.1	 Peripheral Compression Theory
				Neurovascular Compression and Demyelination
				Bone Compression
			2.1.2	 Peripheral Sensitization
				Ion Channel Theory
				Immune Inflammation and Neuropeptides
			2.1.3	 Central Theory
			2.1.4	 Bioresonance Hypothesis
		2.2	 Migraine
			2.2.1	 Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD)
			2.2.2	 Trigeminovascular Theory
			2.2.3	 Inflammatory Theory
			2.2.4	 Central Theory
			2.2.5	 Genetic Theory
			2.2.6	 Gut-Brain Axis Theory
		2.3	 Painful Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
			2.3.1	 Peripheral Sensitization
			2.3.2	 Central Sensitization
			2.3.3	 Genetic Contribution
			2.3.4	 Other Factors
		2.4	 Headache
		2.5	 Dental Pain
		2.6	 Neck Pain
		2.7	 Craniomandibular Disorder (CMD)
		2.8	 Intractable Oral and Facial Pain
	3	 The Analgesic Effects of Acupuncture in Orofacial Pain
		3.1	 Clinical Application
			3.1.1	 Electroacupuncture (EA)
			3.1.2	 Dry Needling (DN)
			3.1.3	 Ear Acupuncture
			3.1.4	 Acupuncture Catgut Embedding (ACE)
			3.1.5	 Warm Acupuncture (WA)
			3.1.6	 Eye Acupuncture
			3.1.7	 Laser Acupuncture
		3.2	 Animal Experiments
			3.2.1	 EA
			3.2.2	 ACE
	4	 Mechanisms of Acupuncture Analgesia in Orofacial Pain
		4.1	 EA
		4.2	 Ear Acupuncture
		4.3	 ACE
		4.4	 WA
	5	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Itch and the Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Peripheral Mechanism of Itch
		2.1	 Peripheral Nonneuronal Cells
		2.2	 Afferent Fibers and Sensory Neurons
			2.2.1	 Afferent Fibers
			2.2.2	 Sensory Neurons
		2.3	 Peripheral Cytokines and Chemokines in Itch
			2.3.1	 Cytokines in Itch
			2.3.2	 Chemokines in Itch
	3	 Spinal Mechanisms of Itch Transmission
		3.1	 Spinal Circuits of Itch
			3.1.1	 Spinal Inhibitory Interneurons in Itch
			3.1.2	 Spinal Excitatory Interneurons in Itch
		3.2	 Spinal Glia Cells in Itch
			3.2.1	 Spinal Astrocytes in Itch
			3.2.2	 Spinal Microglia in Itch
	4	 Brain Areas Involved in Itch Processing
		4.1	 Transmission of Itch Signals from the Spinal Cord to the Brain
		4.2	 Brain Areas Transiting Itch
	5	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture in Clinical Practice and Standard Research
		5.1	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture on Experimental Itch in Volunteers
		5.2	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture on Dermatologic Disease
		5.3	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture on the Uremic Pruritus
		5.4	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture on Neurogenic Pruritus
		5.5	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture in an Itch Rodent Model
		5.6	 Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture on Opioid-Induced Itch
	6	 Possible Mechanisms of the Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture
		6.1	 Sensory Nerve Fibers and the Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture
		6.2	 Kappa Opioid Receptors and the Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture
		6.3	 Brain Circuitry Mediating the Antipruritic Effects of Acupuncture
		6.4	 Basophil Activation and the Antipruritic Effects of Acupuncture
		6.5	 Neurotransmitters and the Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture
		6.6	 Neuroinflammation and the Antipruritic Effect of Acupuncture
	7	 Conclusion and Perspective
	References
Acupuncture for Autism Spectrum Disorders
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application
		2.1	 History
		2.2	 Current Situation of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Autism
			2.2.1	 Acupuncture
			2.2.2	 Catgut Embedding
		2.3	 Problems
		2.4	 Comments
	3	 Mechanistic Research
		3.1	 History
		3.2	 Mechanism and Progress of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Autism
			3.2.1	 Acupuncture Affects Synaptic Plasticity
			3.2.2	 Acupuncture Regulates the Release of Neurotransmitters
			3.2.3	 Acupuncture Regulates Cell Apoptosis
			3.2.4	 Acupuncture Regulates Cerebral Blood Flow
			3.2.5	 Acupuncture Affects Cytokines
		3.3	 Comments
	References
Acupuncture Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis
	1	 Introduction
		1.1	 An Overview of MS
		1.2	 TCM View of MS Pathogenesis
			1.2.1	 Deficiencies in the Spleen and Stomach
			1.2.2	 Invasion of External Dampness Evil
			1.2.3	 Flaring Up in Lung Heat
			1.2.4	 Impairment of Liver and Kidney
	2	 Clinical Application of Acupuncture on Multiple Sclerosis
		2.1	 Commonly Used Methods of Acupuncture and Acupoints for Treatment
		2.2	 Effect of Acupuncture on EDSS and Quality of Life(QoL) of MS Patients
		2.3	 Effects of Acupuncture on Fatigue of MS Patients
		2.4	 Effects of Acupuncture on Spasticity of MS Patients
		2.5	 Effects of Acupuncture on Pain of MS Patients
		2.6	 Effects of Acupuncture on Gait of MS Patients
		2.7	 Effects of Acupuncture on Depression of MS Patients
	3	 Potential Mechanisms of Acupuncture Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis
		3.1	 Immunoregulatory Effect of Electroacupuncture in EAE Model
		3.2	 Effect of Acupuncture on Remyelination
			3.2.1	 Acupuncture and Spinal Cord Injury-Related Demyelination Model
			3.2.2	 Acupuncture and Cuprizone-Induced Demyelination Model
			3.2.3	 Acupuncture and LPC-Induced Demyelination Model
			3.2.4	 Combined Application of Electroacupuncture and Cell Transplantation
	4	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Clinical and Experimental Study on Acupuncture for Children with Cerebral Palsy
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application
		2.1	 History
		2.2	 Current Situation of Acupuncture Treatment
			2.2.1	 Acupuncture Treatment of Infants with Brain Injury
			2.2.2	 Acupuncture for Cerebral Palsy
		2.3	 Methodological Weakness
			2.3.1	 Random Sequence
			2.3.2	 Allocation Concealment
			2.3.3	 Blinding
			2.3.4	 Incomplete Outcome Data
			2.3.5	 Selective Reporting
			2.3.6	 Other Bias
		2.4	 Comments
	3	 Mechanistic Research
		3.1	 History
		3.2	 Mechanism of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Cerebral Palsy
			3.2.1	 Acupuncture Promoted Growth and Development
			3.2.2	 Acupuncture Improved Neurobehavioral Function
			3.2.3	 Acupuncture Improved Learning and Memory Ability
			3.2.4	 Acupuncture Ameliorated Brain Damage
			3.2.5	 Acupuncture Reduced Cellular Apoptosis and Affected the Levels of Apoptosis-Related Proteins in Hippocampus
			3.2.6	 Acupuncture Upregulated the Levels of GDNF and BDNF in Hippocampus CA1 Region
		3.3	 Comments
	References
Beneficial Effect of Acupuncture on Depressive Disorders
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application
		2.1	 History of Depression in Traditional Chinese Medicine
		2.2	 Acupuncture in Treating Depression in TCM
		2.3	 The Current Evidence of Acupuncture for Depression
			2.3.1	 Manual Acupuncture
			2.3.2	 Electroacupuncture
			2.3.3	 Acupuncture Combined with Antidepressants
			2.3.4	 Acupuncture Combined with Chinese Medicine or Psychological Intervention
	3	 Mechanistic Research
		3.1	 Neuroimaging and Neural Plasticity
		3.2	 Neuroinflammation
		3.3	 Neural Transmitters and Modulators
		3.4	 Neuroendocrine System Including HPA Axis
		3.5	 Intracellular Signaling and Cellular Stress Response
	4	 Concluding Remarks and Perspectives
	References
Acupuncture and Alzheimer’s Disease
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Acupuncture for Alzheimer’s Disease
		2.1	 Current View of AD and Its Treatment
		2.2	 TCM View of AD Pathogenesis
		2.3	 Research on Acupuncture Treatment for AD
			2.3.1	 Manual Acupuncture and Electroacupuncture to Treat AD
			2.3.2	 Scalp Acupuncture
			2.3.3	 Acupuncture Combined with Other Therapeutics
				Acupuncture Along with the Medications
				Acupuncture Along with Moxibustion
			2.3.4	 Factors That Influence the Acupuncture Efficacy
				Stage of the AD
				Selection of the Acupoints
				Acupuncture Manipulation
				Needle Retention Time
				Course
			2.3.5	 Comments
		2.4	 Potential Mechanisms of Acupuncture Therapy for AD
			2.4.1	 Amelioration of Impaired Cholinergic Function by Acupuncture
			2.4.2	 Acupuncture Relieving the Amyloid Neurotoxicity
			2.4.3	 Acupuncture Reducing the Expression of Hyperphosphorylated Tau Protein
			2.4.4	 Acupuncture Regulating Energy Metabolism and Activating Certain Cerebral Regions Responsible for Cognitive Function in AD
			2.4.5	 Acupuncture Reduces Oxidative Stress
			2.4.6	 Anti-apoptotic Effects of Acupuncture in AD
			2.4.7	 Other Potential Mechanisms of Acupuncture for AD
			2.4.8	 Comments
	3	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Acupuncture Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Clinical Application
		Acupuncture-Related Interventions
		Stimulation Methods
		Acupoint Selection
		Needle Retention Time
		Treatment Interval and Duration
		Quality of Evidence of Acupuncture for AD
	3	 Mechanism Study
		Aβ
		Tau
		Synapse
		Neuroinflammation
		Mitochondria
		Astrocytes
		Gonadal Steroids
		BDNF
	4	 Mechanism Study Using fMRI
	5	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Electroacupuncture Against Ischemic Brain Injury: Efficacy, Optimal Condition, and Mechanisms
	1	 Introduction
	2	 Acupuncture Therapy for Stroke
	3	 Effect of Electroacupuncture (EA) on Experimental Ischemic Stroke
		3.1	 Experimental Approaches
			3.1.1	 Induction of Cerebral Ischemia
			3.1.2	 Monitoring the Cerebral Blood Flow (CBF)
			3.1.3	 Standardization Management of the Experimental Model
			3.1.4	 Application of EA
			3.1.5	 Evaluation of Neurological Deficits and Death Rate
			3.1.6	 Measurement of Brain Infarct Volume
		3.2	 Increased Brain Injury with Ischemic Duration
		3.3	 CBF Recovery After Reperfusion: Dependence on Ischemic Duration
		3.4	 EA-Induced Protection against Cerebral Ischemic Injury
		3.5	 Comments
	4	 Optimal Conditions for EA-Induced Protection
		4.1	 Suitable Intensity and Frequency of Stimulation
			4.1.1	 Differential Changes in Cerebral Blood Flow in Response to EA at Different Parameters
			4.1.2	 Different EA Effects on Ischemic Brain Injury at Different Intensities and Frequencies
			4.1.3	 Comments
		4.2	 Relatively Specific Acupoints
			4.2.1	 Application of EA at Different Acupoints
			4.2.2	 Differences in EA Protection Against Ischemic Injury at Different Acupoints
			4.2.3	 Alterations in Cerebral Blood Flow in Response to EA at Various Acupoints
			4.2.4	 Different Patterns of CBF Recovery During Reperfusion After EA at Different Acupoints
			4.2.5	 Comments
		4.3	 Appropriate Timing and Durations of EA
			4.3.1	 Application of EA for Different Durations
			4.3.2	 Increased Brain Protection with the Increased Periods of EA from 5 to 30 Minutes
			4.3.3	 Exacerbation of Ischemic Injury by “Overlength” EA Stimulation
			4.3.4	 EA-Induced Increase in Cerebral Blood Flow During the Period of Ischemia
			4.3.5	 Differential Recovery of the Blood Flow During Reperfusion after EA for Different Periods
			4.3.6	 Comments
		4.4	 Right Applying Windows
			4.4.1	 Better Outcome After Early Than Later EA Treatment
			4.4.2	 Comments
		4.5	 Differential Responses to EA in Different Body/Tissue Conditions
			4.5.1	 Minimal Response to EA Stimulation in the Non-ischemic Brain
			4.5.2	 Comments
	5	 Mechanisms for EA-Induced Protection Against Cerebral Ischemic Injury
		5.1	 Instant Increase in Cerebral Blood Flow During EA Stimulation
		5.2	 Upregulation of δ-Opioid Receptor Signaling
			5.2.1	 Stabilization of Ionic Homeostasis
			5.2.2	 Differential Regulation of Cellular and Molecular Signaling in Survival/Death Pathways
		5.3	 Other Mechanisms
		5.4	 Comments
	6	 Concluding Remarks
	References
Index