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Yang F, Chen P, Jiang H, Xie T, Shao Y, Kim DH, Li B, Sun Y. Directional Cell Migration Guided by a Strain Gradient. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2302404. [PMID: 37735983 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202302404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Strain gradients widely exist in development and physiological activities. The directional movement of cells is essential for proper cell localization, and directional cell migration in responses to gradients of chemicals, rigidity, density, and topography of extracellular matrices have been well-established. However; it is unclear whether strain gradients imposed on cells are sufficient to drive directional cell migration. In this work, a programmable uniaxial cell stretch device is developed that creates controllable strain gradients without changing substrate stiffness or ligand distributions. It is demonstrated that over 60% of the single rat embryonic fibroblasts migrate toward the lower strain side in static and the 0.1 Hz cyclic stretch conditions at ≈4% per mm strain gradients. It is confirmed that such responses are distinct from durotaxis or haptotaxis. Focal adhesion analysis confirms higher rates of contact area and protrusion formation on the lower strain side of the cell. A 2D extended motor-clutch model is developed to demonstrate that the strain-introduced traction force determines integrin fibronectin pairs' catch-release dynamics, which drives such directional migration. Together, these results establish strain gradient as a novel cue to regulate directional cell migration and may provide new insights in development and tissue repairs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyu Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Pengcheng Chen
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Han Jiang
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Tianfa Xie
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Yue Shao
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Deok-Ho Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yubing Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
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Schöler U, Merten AL, Schürmann S, Friedrich O. Quantitative Live-Cell Ca 2+ Imaging During Isotropic Cell Stretch. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2644:155-176. [PMID: 37142921 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3052-5_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Cell viability of many cell types strongly relies on their ability to adjust to mechanical conditions and alterations. Cellular mechanisms for sensing and responding to mechanical forces and pathophysiological variations in these processes have become an emerging research field in recent years. An important signaling molecule involved in mechanotransduction as in many cellular processes is Ca2+. New experimental methods to probe cellular Ca2+ signaling live under conditions of mechanical stimulation facilitate new insights into previously overlooked aspects of mechanical regulation of cells.Here, we describe a protocol for using Ca2+ imaging in combination with a cell stretching device, the IsoStretcher. Cells grown on elastic membranes can be isotopically stretched in-plane, and their intracellular Ca2+ level can be accessed online on the single cell level using fluorescent calcium indicator dyes. We show a protocol for functional screening of mechanosensitive ion channels and related drug screenings using BJ cells, a foreskin fibroblast cell line that strongly reacts to acute mechanical stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Schöler
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Anna-Lena Merten
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schürmann
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Oliver Friedrich
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Yen YS, Cheng HY, Lin HT. Evaluation of Stress on Acupuncture with Nano-Etched and Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Coating Surface Modifications. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.2928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of nano-etched surface and diamond-like carbon (DLC) surface acupuncture needles on human pain perception, by finite element method (FEM). Skin models were reconstructed by 3D computer programs. The stress is an important role
in acupuncture needle applications for clinical treatment. Many studies have investigated finite element researches for acupuncture; however, few have evaluated a model for acupuncture with and without\ modified surface. The results revealed that abnormal focusing stress was found when acupuncture
with nano-etched surface. Moreover, the unbalance stress was found on the top of the skin model in the nano-etched group, the highest stress also appeared in the top region. Acupuncture with nano-etched surface would be an effective means for stimulating skin. These results indicate subtle
but significant effects of acupuncture stimulation with nano-etched surface needles, compared to acupuncture with untreated needles in healthy participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Sheng Yen
- Department of Stomatology of Periodontology of Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 104, Taiwan
| | - Han-Yi Cheng
- Biomedical Engineering Research & Development Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 404, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ta Lin
- Department of Dentistry, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
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Amato A, Messina G, Giustino V, Brusa J, Brighina F, Proia P. A pilot study on non-invasive treatment of migraine: The self-myofascial release. Eur J Transl Myol 2021; 31. [PMID: 33709650 PMCID: PMC8056163 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2021.9646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of this paper was to determine the effect of self-myofascial release (SMFR) on postural stability and to analyze if it can influence migraine condition. Twenty-five subjects (age 49.7± 12.5) affected by migraine were enrolled. Assessments included a stabilometric analysis in order to evaluate balance and plantar support, with eyes open (OE) and closed (CE); cervical ROM measurement; evaluation of upper limb strength through handgrip. All the analysis were carried out before and after the administration of a single SMFR protocol, using medium density small balls laid in the three most painful trigger points in migraine patients: trapezius, sternocleidomastoids and suboccipital muscles. Performing a T test for paired samples, there was a significant increase in two ranges of the stabilometric analysis: ellipse surface, both with open and closed eyes (p value EO = 0.05; p value EC = 0.04) and length of the sway path, but just with closed eyes (p value = 0.05). SMFR might have a positive impact on postural stability in subjects with migraine. Further investigation should be conducted to confirm the hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Amato
- Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo, Palermo.
| | - Giuseppe Messina
- Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo, Palermo.
| | - Valerio Giustino
- Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo, Palermo.
| | - Jessica Brusa
- Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo, Palermo.
| | - Filippo Brighina
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences (BIONEC), University of Palermo, Palermo.
| | - Patrizia Proia
- Department of Psychological, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, University of Palermo, Palermo.
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Amato A, Messina G, Giustino V, Brusa J, Brighina F, Proia P. A pilot study on non-invasive treatment of migraine: The self-myofascial release. Eur J Transl Myol 2021. [DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2020.9646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of this paper was to determine the effect of self-myofascial release (SMFR) on postural stability and to analyze if it can influence migraine condition. Twenty-five subjects (age 49.7± 12.5) affected by migraine were enrolled. Assessments included a stabilometric analysis in order to evaluate balance and plantar support, with eyes open (OE) and closed (CE); cervical ROM measurement; evaluation of upper limb strength through handgrip. All the analysis were carried out before and after the administration of a single SMFR protocol, using medium density small balls laid in the three most painful trigger points in migraine patients: trapezius, sternocleidomastoids and suboccipital muscles. Performing a T test for paired samples, there was a significant increase in two ranges of the stabilometric analysis: ellipse surface, both with open and closed eyes (p value EO = 0.05; p value EC = 0.04) and length of the sway path, but just with closed eyes (p value = 0.05). SMFR might have a positive impact on postural stability in subjects with migraine. Further investigation should be conducted to confirm the hypothesis.
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Abraham A, Franklin E, Stecco C, Schleip R. Integrating mental imagery and fascial tissue: A conceptualization for research into movement and cognition. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2020; 40:101193. [PMID: 32891273 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mental imagery (MI) research has mainly focused to date on mechanisms of effect and performance gains associated with muscle and neural tissues. MI's potential to affect fascia has rarely been considered. This paper conceptualizes ways in which MI might mutually interact with fascial tissue to support performance and cognitive functions. Such ways acknowledge, among others, MI's positive effect on proprioception, body schema, and pain. Drawing on cellular, physiological, and functional similarities and associations between muscle and fascial tissues, we propose that MI has the potential to affect and be affected by fascial tissue. We suggest that fascia-targeted MI (fascial mental imagery; FMI) can therefore be a useful approach for scientific as well as clinical purposes. We use the example of fascial dynamic neuro-cognitive imagery (FDNI) as a codified FMI method available for scientific and therapeutic explorations into rehabilitation and prevention of fascia-related disabling conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Abraham
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Education, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA. 330 River Road, Athens, 30602, GA, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of General Medicine and Geriatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Eric Franklin
- The International Institute for Franklin Method, Hitnauerstrasse 40 CH-8623 Wetzikon, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Carla Stecco
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 5 - 35128, Padova, Italy.
| | - Robert Schleip
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Germany. Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60/62, 80802, Muenchen, Germany; Department of Sports Medicine and Health Promotion, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany; Fascia Research Group, Ulm University, Experimental Anesthesiology, Ulm, Germany.
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Establishment of a Novel Porcine Model to Study the Impact of Active Stretching on a Local Carrageenan-Induced Inflammation. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2020; 99:1012-1019. [PMID: 32427602 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Active stretching of the body is integral to complementary mind-body therapies such as yoga, as well as physical therapy, yet the biologic mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects remain largely unknown. A previous study showed the impact of active stretching on inflammatory processes in rats. The present study tested the feasibility of using a porcine model, with a closer resemblance to human anatomy, to study the effects of active stretching in the resolution of localized inflammation. DESIGN A total of 12 pigs were trained to stretch before subcutaneous bilateral Carrageenan injection in the back at the L3 vertebrae, 2 cm from the midline. Animals were randomized to no-stretch or stretch, twice a day for 5 mins over 48 hrs. Animals were euthanized for tissue collection 48 hrs postinjection. RESULTS The procedure was well tolerated by the pigs. On average, lesion area was significantly smaller by 36% in the stretch group compared with the no-stretch group (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION This porcine model shows promise for studying the impact of active stretching on inflammation-resolution mechanisms. These results are relevant to understanding the stretching-related therapeutic mechanisms of mind-body therapies. Future studies with larger samples are warranted.
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Jang SA, Namkoong S, Lee SR, Lee JW, Park Y, So G, Kim SH, Kim MJ, Jang KH, Avolio AP, Gangoda SVS, Koo HJ, Kim MK, Kang SC, Sohn EH. Multi-tissue lipotoxicity caused by high-fat diet feeding is attenuated by the supplementation of Korean red ginseng in mice. Mol Cell Toxicol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s13273-019-00056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Hullender Rubin LE, Anderson BJ, Craig LB. Acupuncture and in vitro fertilisation research: Current and future directions. Acupunct Med 2018; 36:117-122. [DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2016-011352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Acupuncture is a common adjuvant treatment to support patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF). However, the impact of acupuncture and the different roles it can play in IVF remain unclear. Objective In this paper, we present an overview and critique of the current evidence on acupuncture's impact on IVF-related stress, describe harms, and propose future directions for investigation. Conclusion Two to three acupuncture sessions performed on or around the day of embryo transfer are insufficient interventions to improve IVF birth outcomes but provide significant IVF-related stress reduction. Research investigating acupuncture to support IVF is heterogeneous and confounded by the lack of an appropriate comparator. However, evidence suggests several acupuncture sessions improve endometrial thickness, reduce stress, and improve patient satisfaction. Observational studies suggest more sessions are associated with increases in clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. An optimised acupuncture intervention with a reasonable comparator is necessary for future studies, with evidence-based guidance on technique and number of sessions. Acupuncture should not be rejected as an adjuvant therapy for IVF, but more studies are needed to clarify acupuncture's role in supporting IVF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Hullender Rubin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Portland Acupuncture Studio, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Belinda J Anderson
- Academic Department, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine - New York Campus, New York, USA
| | - LaTasha B Craig
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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Raţă BC, Raţă M, Antohe B. Morpho-functional implications of myofascial stretching applied to muscle chains: A case study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2018; 31:749-758. [PMID: 29578477 DOI: 10.3233/bmr-170998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most lesions of the soft tissues, especially those at the muscle level, are due to the lack of elasticity of the connective tissue and fascia. Stretching is one of the most commonly used methods of treatment for such musculoskeletal issues. OBJECTIVE This study tracks the effects of stretching on the electromyographic activity of muscle chains, applied to a 24-year-old athlete diagnosed with the Haglund's disease. METHOD For the evaluation, we used visual examination and surface electromyography (maximum volumetric isometric contraction). The therapeutic intervention consisted in the application of the static stretching positions, which intended the elongation of the shortened muscle chains. The treatment program had a duration of 2 months, with a frequency of 2 sessions per week and an average duration of 60 minutes. RESULTS The posterior muscle chains recorded an increase in the EMG activity, while the anterior muscle chains tended to diminish their EMG activity. As a result of the applied treatment, all the evaluated muscle chains recorded a rebalancing of the electromyographic activity, demonstrating the efficiency of stretching as a method of global treatment of muscle chains. CONCLUSIONS By analysing all the data, we have come to the conclusion that static stretching is an effective treatment method for shortened muscle chains.
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Gascon-Garcia J, Bagur-Calafat C, Girabent-Farrés M, Balius R. Validation of the range of dry needling with the fascial winding technique in the carpal tunnel using ultrasound. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2018; 22:348-353. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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12
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Role of Acupoint Area Collagen Fibers in Anti-Inflammation of Acupuncture Lifting and Thrusting Manipulation. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:2813437. [PMID: 28473863 PMCID: PMC5394907 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2813437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The role of the acupoint area collagen fibers in the efficacy of acupuncture lifting and thrusting (L&T) manipulation will be explored in this paper. 30 male NZW rabbits were randomly divided into 6 groups: sham operation group (Group N), model group (Group M), acupuncture without manipulation group (Group W), acupuncture L&T manipulation group (Group A), collagenase pretreatment group (Group JM), and collagenase pretreatment + acupuncture L&T manipulation group (Group JA). The bacterial endotoxin was used to generate the rabbit fever models. Acupuncture was applied at IL-11. The levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-4 and the rectal temperature were measured at 2 h, 4 h, and 6 h after modeling and the collagen fiber morphology at acupoint area was observed after 6 hours. Results. As compared with Group N, the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in Group M were significantly higher; the level of IL-4 was significantly lower (P < 0.05). As compared with Group M, IL-1β and TNF-α in Groups W and A were significantly lower and IL-4 was significantly higher (P < 0.05). As compared with Group W, IL-1β and TNF-α in Group A were lower and IL-4 was higher (P < 0.05). The collagen fiber in Group A was slightly rough, distorted, and fractured. As shown in studies, the endotoxin-induced inflammatory response can be significantly inhibited by acupuncture whose efficacy can also be significantly improved by the manipulations. Collagenase pretreatment may be the first receptor to the mechanical force of the L&T manipulation.
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Biological effects of direct and indirect manipulation of the fascial system. Narrative review. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2017; 21:435-445. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2017.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Amblyopia: Can Laser Acupuncture be an Option? J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2016; 9:267-274. [PMID: 27776766 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2016.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper describes the results of the treatment of amblyopia in young patients using an unconventional laser-acupuncture technique. After obtaining satisfactory results in the treatment of a 14-year-old amblyopic girl, the treatment was applied to 13 amblyopic children aged 3-11 years, with an encouraging outcome. An ultralow-light-intensity laser with a square-wave modulated emission was applied over a sequence of acupuncture points. Each session lasted < 15 minutes, and the treatment was performed once a week in 6-week cycles. Patients were followed for several years to evaluate the long-term results and/or to extend the treatment. All except two of the treated patients showed a rapid increase in visual acuity after several treatment sessions. Some required retreatment for regressions in visual acuity. The need for medium-term treatment cycles seems, however, to suggest that results may not be stable for all individuals. Although acupuncture has already been proved to be effective in the treatment of amblyopia, the results reported in this paper suggest that laser acupuncture at ultra-low-light-intensity levels can provide similar, if not better, results to conventional acupuncture stimulation, but with higher patient compliance.
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Cruz-Montecinos C, González Blanche A, López Sánchez D, Cerda M, Sanzana-Cuche R, Cuesta-Vargas A. In vivo relationship between pelvis motion and deep fascia displacement of the medial gastrocnemius: anatomical and functional implications. J Anat 2015; 227:665-72. [PMID: 26467242 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Different authors have modelled myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance using cadaveric models, but in vivo models are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pelvic motion and deep fascia displacement in the medial gastrocnemius (MG). Deep fascia displacement of the MG was evaluated through automatic tracking with an ultrasound. Angular variation of the pelvis was determined by 2D kinematic analysis. The average maximum fascia displacement and pelvic motion were 1.501 ± 0.78 mm and 6.55 ± 2.47 °, respectively. The result of a simple linear regression between fascia displacement and pelvic motion for three task executions by 17 individuals was r = 0.791 (P < 0.001). Moreover, hamstring flexibility was related to a lower anterior tilt of the pelvis (r = 0.544, P < 0.024) and a lower deep fascia displacement of the MG (r = 0.449, P < 0.042). These results support the concept of myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance in an in vivo model, reinforce the functional concept of force transmission through synergistic muscle groups, and grant new perspectives for the role of fasciae in restricting movement in remote zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cruz-Montecinos
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Laboratory of Biomechanics, San José Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - Mauricio Cerda
- SCIAN-Lab, Programme of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, ICBM, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodolfo Sanzana-Cuche
- Departamento de Ciencias Morfológicas, Facultad de Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Antonio Cuesta-Vargas
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Andalucía Tech, Cátedra de Fisioterapia y Discapacidad, Instituto de Investigacion Biomedica de Malaga (IBIMA), Clinemtria (F-14), Universidad de Malaga, Málaga, Spain.,School of Clinical Science, Faculty of Health at Queensland University Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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16
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Gallamini M, D'Angelo G, Belloni G. Biolite: A Patented Ultra-Low-Level Laser-Therapy Device for Treating Musculoskeletal Pain and Associated Impairments. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2015; 8:167-74. [PMID: 26276452 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2015.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
After an excursus on state-of-the-art knowledge for low-level laser therapy (LLLT), Biolite, a patented ultra-low-level laser therapy device used to treat musculoskeletal pain and associated impairments, is presented. The application protocols include short stimulation of sequences of acupuncture points. The observed effects seem, however, to be far from those that might be expected after acupuncture. The primary effect seems more likely to be an extracellular soft-tissue matrix reaction. The development of the technique, the studies performed, and the evidence collected over > 10 years suggest that specifically modulated laser light can interact with human tissues at light fluences well under those previously considered as being capable of having any effect. Musculoskeletal pain very often becomes an autonomous dysfunction that is independent of the original injury and that can be effectively treated using specific peripheral acupuncture-like stimulation. Because such acupuncture is capable of reducing motor control "interferences" from noxious stimuli, it can improve motor control performance, thereby reducing the risk of falls in the elderly individuals. The proposal of acupuncture-derived protocols to be applied by Western physiotherapists using an ultra-low-level laser therapy device is a further "bridge" between two different, and sometimes very different, clinical worlds to better serve our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giovanni D'Angelo
- Classical Western Physiotherapy Practitioner, Fisiolab Sas, Chieti, Italy
| | - Gabriele Belloni
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Approach Physiotherapy Practitioner, Freelance, Rome, Italy
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Tozzi P. A unifying neuro-fasciagenic model of somatic dysfunction - Underlying mechanisms and treatment - Part II. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2015; 19:526-43. [PMID: 26118526 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper offers an extensive review of the main fascia-mediated mechanisms underlying various therapeutic processes of clinical relevance for manual therapy. The concept of somatic dysfunction is revisited in light of the several fascial influences that may come into play during and after manual treatment. A change in perspective is thus proposed: from a nociceptive model that for decades has viewed somatic dysfunction as a neurologically-mediated phenomenon, to a unifying neuro-fascial model that integrates neural influences into a multifactorial and multidimensional interpretation of manual therapeutic effects as being partially, if not entirely, mediated by the fascia. By taking into consideration a wide spectrum of fascia-related factors - from cell-based mechanisms to cognitive and behavioural influences - a model emerges suggesting, amongst other results, a multidisciplinary-approach to the intervention of somatic dysfunction. Finally, it is proposed that a sixth osteopathic 'meta-model' - the connective tissue-fascial model - be added to the existing five models in osteopathic philosophy as the main interface between all body systems, thus providing a structural and functional framework for the body's homoeostatic potential and its inherent abilities to heal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Tozzi
- School of Osteopathy C.R.O.M.O.N., Rome, Italy; C.O.ME. Collaboration, Pescara, Italy.
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18
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A unifying neuro-fasciagenic model of somatic dysfunction - underlying mechanisms and treatment - Part I. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2015; 19:310-26. [PMID: 25892388 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Revised: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This paper offers an extensive review of the main fascia-mediated mechanisms underlying various dysfunctional and pathophysiological processes of clinical relevance for manual therapy. The concept of somatic dysfunction is revisited in light of the diverse fascial influences that may come into play in its genesis and maintenance. A change in perspective is thus proposed: from a nociceptive model that for decades has viewed somatic dysfunction as a neurologically-mediated phenomenon, to a unifying fascial model that integrates neural influences into a multifactorial and multidimensional interpretation of dysfunctional process as being partially, if not entirely, mediated by the fascia.
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Fox JR, Gray W, Koptiuch C, Badger GJ, Langevin HM. Anisotropic tissue motion induced by acupuncture needling along intermuscular connective tissue planes. J Altern Complement Med 2014; 20:290-4. [PMID: 24593827 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2013.0397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Acupuncture needle manipulation causes mechanical deformation of connective tissue, which in turn results in mechanical stimulation of fibroblasts, with active changes in cell shape and autocrine purinergic signaling. We have previously shown using ultrasound elastography in humans that acupuncture needle manipulation causes measurable movement of tissue up to several centimeters away from the needle. The goal of this study was to quantify the spatial pattern of tissue displacement and deformation (shear strain) in response to acupuncture needling along an intermuscular connective tissue plane compared with needling over the belly of a muscle. DESIGN Eleven (11) healthy human subjects underwent a single testing session during which robotic acupuncture needling was performed while recording tissue displacement using ultrasound. Outcome measures were axial and lateral tissue displacement as well as lateral shear strain calculated using ultrasound elastography postprocessing. RESULTS Tissue displacement and strain extended further in the longitudinal direction when needling between muscles, and in the transverse direction when needling over the belly of a muscle. CONCLUSIONS The anisotropic tissue motion observed in this study may influence the spatial distribution of local connective tissue cellular responses following acupuncture needle manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Fox
- 1 Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine , Burlington, VT
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20
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Swanson RL. Biotensegrity: a unifying theory of biological architecture with applications to osteopathic practice, education, and research--a review and analysis. J Osteopath Med 2013; 113:34-52. [PMID: 23329804 DOI: 10.7556/jaoa.2013.113.1.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Since its inception, osteopathic medicine has sought to identify the mechanical causes of disease and to understand the body's structure-function relationship. Research conducted during the past 25 years has demonstrated that the architectural principles of tensegrity can be applied to biological organisms (termed biotensegrity) and that these principles can demonstrate the mechanical structure-function relationship at all size scales in the human body. Further, biotensegrity at the cellular level allows the cell to mechanically sense its environment and convert mechanical signals into biochemical changes. When applied to the principles of osteopathic medicine, biotensegrity provides a conceptual understanding of the hierarchical organization of the human body and explains the body's ability to adapt to change. Further, biotensegrity explains how mechanical forces applied during osteopathic manipulative treatment could lead to effects at the cellular level, providing a platform for future research on the mechanisms of action of osteopathic manipulative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randel L Swanson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Temple University School of Medicine, 3401 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19140-5103, USA.
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Remvig L, Ellis RM, Patijn J. Myofascial release: an evidence-based treatment approach? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1179/175361408x293272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Goldman N, Chandler-Militello D, Langevin HM, Nedergaard M, Takano T. Purine receptor mediated actin cytoskeleton remodeling of human fibroblasts. Cell Calcium 2013; 53:297-301. [PMID: 23462235 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2013.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Earlier studies have shown that activation of adenosine A1 receptors on peripheral pain fibers contributes to acupuncture-induced suppression of painful input. In addition to adenosine, acupuncture triggers the release of other purines, including ATP and ADP that may bind to purine receptors on nearby fibroblasts. We here show that purine agonists trigger increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) signaling in a cultured human fibroblasts cell line. The profile of agonist-induced Ca(2+) increases indicates that the cells express functional P2yR2 and P2yR4 receptors, as well as P2yR1 and P2xR7 receptors. Unexpectedly, purine-induced Ca(2+) signaling was associated with a remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. ATP induced a transient loss in F-actin stress fiber. The changes of actin cytoskeleton occurred slowly and peaked at 10min after agonist exposure. Inhibition of ATP-induced increases in Ca(2+) by cyclopiazonic acid blocked receptor-mediated cytoskeleton remodeling. The Ca(2+) ionophore failed to induce cytoskeletal remodeling despite triggering robust increases in cytosolic Ca(2+). These observations indicate that purine signaling induces transient changes in fibroblast cytoarchitecture that could be related to the beneficial effects of acupuncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna Goldman
- Division of Glial Disease and Therapeutics, Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
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Abstract
Control is intrinsic to biological organisms, whose cells are in a constant state of sensing and response to numerous external and self-generated stimuli. Diverse means are used to study the complexity through control-based approaches in these cellular systems, including through chemical and genetic manipulations, input-output methodologies, feedback approaches, and feed-forward approaches. We first discuss what happens in control-based approaches when we are not actively examining or manipulating cells. We then present potential methods to determine what the cell is doing during these times and to reverse-engineer the cellular system. Finally, we discuss how we can control the cell's extracellular and intracellular environments, both to probe the response of the cells using defined experimental engineering-based technologies and to anticipate what might be achieved by applying control-based approaches to affect cellular processes. Much work remains to apply simplified control models and develop new technologies to aid researchers in studying and utilizing cellular and molecular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip R LeDuc
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
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Smith EJ, Schulze S, Kiravittaya S, Mei Y, Sanchez S, Schmidt OG. Lab-in-a-tube: detection of individual mouse cells for analysis in flexible split-wall microtube resonator sensors. NANO LETTERS 2011; 11:4037-42. [PMID: 21105718 DOI: 10.1021/nl1036148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
We report a method for the precise capturing of embryonic fibroblast mouse cells into rolled-up microtube resonators. The microtubes contain a nanometer-sized gap in their wall which defines a new type of optofluidic sensor, i.e., a flexible split-wall microtube resonator sensor, employed as a label-free fully integrative detection tool for individual cells. The sensor action works through peak sharpening and spectral shifts of whispering gallery modes within the microresonators under light illumination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot J Smith
- Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstrasse 20, D-01069 Dresden, Germany.
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Should physiotherapists use acupuncture for treating patients with cancer-induced bone pain? A discussion paper. Physiotherapy 2011; 97:256-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2010.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2010] [Accepted: 08/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Paley CA, Bennett MI, Johnson MI. Acupuncture for cancer-induced bone pain? EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2011; 2011:671043. [PMID: 21799687 PMCID: PMC3136818 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/neq020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2009] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bone pain is the most common type of pain in cancer. Bony metastases are common in advanced cancers, particularly in multiple myeloma, breast, prostate or lung cancer. Current pain-relieving strategies include the use of opioid-based analgesia, bisphosphonates and radiotherapy. Although patients experience some pain relief, these interventions may produce unacceptable side-effects which inevitably affect the quality of life. Acupuncture may represent a potentially valuable adjunct to existing strategies for pain relief and it is known to be relatively free of harmful side-effects. Although acupuncture is used in palliative care settings for all types of cancer pain the evidence-base is sparse and inconclusive and there is very little evidence to show its effectiveness in relieving cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP). The aim of this critical review is to consider the known physiological effects of acupuncture and discuss these in the context of the pathophysiology of malignant bone pain. The aim of future research should be to produce an effective protocol for treating CIBP with acupuncture based on a sound, evidence-based rationale. The physiological mechanisms presented in this review suggest that this is a realistic objective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole A Paley
- Faculty of Health, Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds, UK
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Lasher RA, Wolchok JC, Parikh MK, Kennedy JP, Hitchcock RW. Design and characterization of a modified T-flask bioreactor for continuous monitoring of engineered tissue stiffness. Biotechnol Prog 2010; 26:857-64. [PMID: 20187075 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Controlling environmental conditions, such as mechanical stimuli, is critical for directing cells into functional tissue. This study reports on the development of a bioreactor capable of controlling the mechanical environment and continuously measuring force-displacement in engineered tissue. The bioreactor was built from off the shelf components, modified off the shelf components, and easily reproducible custom built parts to facilitate ease of setup, reproducibility and experimental flexibility. A T-flask was modified to allow for four tissue samples, mechanical actuation via a LabView controlled stepper motor and transduction of force from inside the T-flask to an external sensor. In vitro bench top testing with instrumentation springs and tissue culture experiments were performed to validate system performance. Force sensors were highly linear (R(2) > 0.998) and able to maintain force readings for extended periods of time. Tissue culture experiments involved cyclic loading of polyurethane scaffolds seeded with and without (control) human foreskin fibroblasts for 8 h/day for 14 days. After supplementation with TGF-beta, tissue constructs showed an increase in stiffness between consecutive days and from the acellular controls. These experiments confirmed the ability of the bioreactor to distinguish experimental groups and monitor tissue stiffness during tissue development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Lasher
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Gemmell H, Miller P. Relative effectiveness and adverse effects of cervical manipulation, mobilisation and the activator instrument in patients with sub-acute non-specific neck pain: results from a stopped randomised trial. CHIROPRACTIC & OSTEOPATHY 2010; 18:20. [PMID: 20618936 PMCID: PMC2927873 DOI: 10.1186/1746-1340-18-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2009] [Accepted: 07/09/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck pain of a mechanical nature is a common complaint seen by practitioners of manual medicine, who use a multitude of methods to treat the condition. It is not known, however, if any of these methods are superior in treatment effectiveness. This trial was stopped due to poor recruitment. The purposes of this report are (1) to describe the trial protocol, (2) to report on the data obtained from subjects who completed the study, (3) to discuss the problems we encountered in conducting this study. METHODS A pragmatic randomised clinical trial was undertaken. Patients who met eligibility criteria were randomised into three groups. One group was treated using specific segmental high velocity low amplitude manipulation (diversified), another by specific segmental mobilisation, and a third group by the Activator instrument. All three groups were also treated for any myofascial distortions and given appropriate exercises and advice. Participants were treated six times over a three-week period or until they reported being pain free. The primary outcome measure for the study was Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC); secondary outcome measures included the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36v2), the neck Bournemouth Questionnaire, and the numerical rating scale for pain intensity. Participants also kept a diary of any pain medication taken and noted any perceived adverse effects of treatment. Outcomes were measured at four points: end of treatment, and 3, 6, and 12 months thereafter. RESULTS Between January 2007 and March 2008, 123 patients were assessed for eligibility, of these 47 were considered eligible, of which 16 were allocated to manipulation, 16 to the Activator instrument and 15 to the mobilisation group. Comparison between the groups on the PGIC adjusted for baseline covariants did not show a significant difference for any of the endpoints. Within group analyses for change from baseline to the 12-month follow up for secondary outcomes were significant for all groups on the Bournemouth Questionnaire and for pain, while the mobilisation group had a significant improvement on the PCS and MCS subscales of the SF-36v2. Finally, there were no moderate, severe, or long-lasting adverse effects reported by any participant in any group. CONCLUSIONS Although the small sample size must be taken into consideration, it appears that all three methods of treating mechanical neck pain had a long-term benefit for subacute neck pain, without moderate or serious adverse events associated with any of the treatment methods. There were difficulties in recruiting subjects to this trial. This pragmatic trial should be repeated with a larger sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Gemmell
- Principal Lecturer Chiropractic Sciences, Department of Academic Affairs Anglo-European College of Chiropractic Bournemouth, Dorset, UK
| | - Peter Miller
- Senior Lecturer Chiropractic Sciences, Department of Academic Affairs Anglo-European College of Chiropractic Bournemouth, Dorset, UK
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Langevin HM, Storch KN, Snapp RR, Bouffard NA, Badger GJ, Howe AK, Taatjes DJ. Tissue stretch induces nuclear remodeling in connective tissue fibroblasts. Histochem Cell Biol 2010; 133:405-15. [PMID: 20237796 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-010-0680-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2010] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Studies in cultured cells have shown that nuclear shape is an important factor influencing nuclear function, and that mechanical forces applied to the cell can directly affect nuclear shape. In a previous study, we demonstrated that stretching of whole mouse subcutaneous tissue causes dynamic cytoskeletal remodeling with perinuclear redistribution of alpha-actin in fibroblasts within the tissue. We have further shown that the nuclei of these fibroblasts have deep invaginations containing alpha-actin. In the current study, we hypothesized that tissue stretch would cause nuclear remodeling with a reduced amount of nuclear invagination, measurable as a change in nuclear concavity. Subcutaneous areolar connective tissue samples were excised from 28 mice and randomized to either tissue stretch or no stretch for 30 min, then examined with histochemistry and confocal microscopy. In stretched tissue (vs. non-stretched), fibroblast nuclei had a larger cross-sectional area (P < 0.001), smaller thickness (P < 0.03) in the plane of the tissue, and smaller relative concavity (P < 0.005) indicating an increase in nuclear convexity. The stretch-induced loss of invaginations may have important influences on gene expression, RNA trafficking and/or cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene M Langevin
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Ave, Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
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Steward RL, Cheng CM, Wang DL, LeDuc PR. Probing Cell Structure Responses Through a Shear and Stretching Mechanical Stimulation Technique. Cell Biochem Biophys 2009; 56:115-24. [DOI: 10.1007/s12013-009-9075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Silberstein M. The cutaneous intrinsic visceral afferent nervous system: A new model for acupuncture analgesia. J Theor Biol 2009; 261:637-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2009.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2009] [Revised: 09/06/2009] [Accepted: 09/08/2009] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Abstract
Although fasciae have long interested clinicians in a multitude of different clinical and paramedical disciplines, there have been few attempts to unite the ensuing diverse literature into a single review. The current article gives an anatomical perspective that extends from the gross to the molecular level. For expediency, it deals only with fascia in the limbs and back. Particular focus is directed towards deep fascia and thus consideration is given to structures such as the fascia lata, thoracolumbar fascia, plantar and palmar fascia, along with regional specializations of deep fascia such as retinacula and fibrous pulleys. However, equal emphasis is placed on general aspects of fascial structure and function, including its innervation and cellular composition. Among the many functions of fascia considered in detail are its ectoskeletal role (as a soft tissue skeleton for muscle attachments), its importance for creating osteofascial compartments for muscles, encouraging venous return in the lower limb, dissipating stress concentration at entheses and acting as a protective sheet for underlying structures. Emphasis is placed on recognizing the continuity of fascia between regions and appreciating its key role in coordinating muscular activity and acting as a body-wide proprioceptive organ. Such considerations far outweigh the significance of viewing fascia in a regional context alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Benjamin
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
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Kong J, Kaptchuk TJ, Polich G, Kirsch I, Vangel M, Zyloney C, Rosen B, Gollub R. Expectancy and treatment interactions: a dissociation between acupuncture analgesia and expectancy evoked placebo analgesia. Neuroimage 2008; 45:940-9. [PMID: 19159691 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2008.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2008] [Revised: 11/30/2008] [Accepted: 12/09/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in placebo research have demonstrated the mind's power to alter physiology. In this study, we combined an expectancy manipulation model with both verum and sham acupuncture treatments to address: 1) how and to what extent treatment and expectancy effects - including both subjective pain intensity levels (pain sensory ratings) and objective physiological activations (fMRI) - interact; and 2) if the underlying mechanism of expectancy remains the same whether placebo treatment is given alone or in conjunction with active treatment. The results indicate that although verum acupuncture+high expectation and sham acupuncture+high expectation induced subjective reports of analgesia of equal magnitude, fMRI analysis showed that verum acupuncture produced greater fMRI signal decrease in pain related brain regions during application of calibrated heat pain stimuli on the right arm. We believe our study provides brain imaging evidence for the existence of different mechanisms underlying acupuncture analgesia and expectancy evoked placebo analgesia. Our results also suggest that the brain network involved in expectancy may vary under different treatment situations (verum and sham acupuncture treatment).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Kong
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA.
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Bouffard NA, Cutroneo KR, Badger GJ, White SL, Buttolph TR, Ehrlich HP, Stevens-Tuttle D, Langevin HM. Tissue stretch decreases soluble TGF-beta1 and type-1 procollagen in mouse subcutaneous connective tissue: evidence from ex vivo and in vivo models. J Cell Physiol 2007; 214:389-95. [PMID: 17654495 PMCID: PMC3065715 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1) plays a key role in connective tissue remodeling, scarring, and fibrosis. The effects of mechanical forces on TGF-beta1 and collagen deposition are not well understood. We tested the hypothesis that brief (10 min) static tissue stretch attenuates TGF-beta1-mediated new collagen deposition in response to injury. We used two different models: (1) an ex vivo model in which excised mouse subcutaneous tissue (N = 44 animals) was kept in organ culture for 4 days and either stretched (20% strain for 10 min 1 day after excision) or not stretched; culture media was assayed by ELISA for TGF-beta1; (2) an in vivo model in which mice (N = 22 animals) underwent unilateral subcutaneous microsurgical injury on the back, then were randomized to stretch (20-30% strain for 10 min twice a day for 7 days) or no stretch; subcutaneous tissues of the back were immunohistochemically stained for Type-1 procollagen. In the ex vivo model, TGF-beta1 protein was lower in stretched versus non-stretched tissue (repeated measures ANOVA, P < 0.01). In the in vivo model, microinjury resulted in a significant increase in Type-1 procollagen in the absence of stretch (P < 0.001), but not in the presence of stretch (P = 0.21). Thus, brief tissue stretch attenuated the increase in both soluble TGF-beta1 (ex vivo) and Type-1 procollagen (in vivo) following tissue injury. These results have potential relevance to the mechanisms of treatments applying brief mechanical stretch to tissues (e.g., physical therapy, respiratory therapy, mechanical ventilation, massage, yoga, acupuncture).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A. Bouffard
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Kenneth R. Cutroneo
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Gary J. Badger
- Department of Medical Biostatistics, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Sheryl L. White
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Thomas R. Buttolph
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
| | - H. Paul Ehrlich
- Department of Surgery, Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Debbie Stevens-Tuttle
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
| | - Helene M. Langevin
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont
- Correspondence to: Helene M. Langevin, Department of Neurology, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Ave., Burlington, VT 05405.
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Abstract
The progress in discerning the structure and function of cells and tissues in health and disease has been achieved to a large extent by the continued development of new reagents for histochemistry, the improvement of existing techniques and new imaging techniques. This review will highlight some advancements made in these fields.
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Nielsen A, Knoblauch NTM, Dobos GJ, Michalsen A, Kaptchuk TJ. The Effect of Gua Sha Treatment on the Microcirculation of Surface Tissue: A Pilot Study in Healthy Subjects. Explore (NY) 2007; 3:456-66. [PMID: 17905355 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2007.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Gua Sha, therapeutic surface frictioning that intentionally raises transitory petechiae and ecchymosis, is a traditional East Asian healing technique also known as cao gio, coining, scraping, and spooning. There are case reports in Western literature but no studies on the physiological effects of Gua Sha. OBJECTIVE To study the microcirculatory effects of Gua Sha on the skin and subcutis in humans to elucidate physiological mechanisms responsible for the clinically observed pain-relieving effect of this treatment DESIGN Laser Doppler imaging (LDI) was used to make sequential measurements of the microcirculation of surface tissue before and after Gua Sha treatment in 11 healthy subjects. The effect of Gua Sha treatment on the microcirculation of surface tissue was expressed as changes from baseline in arbitrary perfusion units (PU). SETTING The study was conducted at the Department of Nephrology, Unit of Circulation Research, University Hospital of Essen, Germany. SUBJECTS Subjects were volunteers from the nursing and physician staff of the Kliniken Essen. INTERVENTION A single Gua Sha treatment was applied to an area of each subject's back. OUTCOME MEASURES Change in microcirculation was measured in PUs. Change in myalgia was subjectively reported and confirmed by manual palpation. RESULTS Gua Sha caused a fourfold increase in microcirculation PUs at the treated area for the first 7.5 minutes following treatment and a significant increase in surface microcirculation during the entire 25 minutes of the study period following treatment (P < .001). Females showed significantly higher rates of response than males (P = .003). Each subject experienced immediate decrease in myalgia in both the site treated, in the related distal control site, and in some cases, other distal sites. Pain relief persisted to some extent up to the follow-up visit. There were no adverse reactions. CONCLUSION Gua Sha increases microcirculation local to a treated area, and that increase in circulation may play a role in local and distal decrease in myalgia. Decrease in myalgia at sites distal to a treated area is not due to distal increase in microcirculation. There is an unidentified pain-relieving biomechanism associated with Gua Sha.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arya Nielsen
- Beth Israel Medical Center's Continuum Center for Health and Healing, New York, NY, USA.
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Langevin HM, Bouffard NA, Churchill DL, Badger GJ. Connective tissue fibroblast response to acupuncture: dose-dependent effect of bidirectional needle rotation. J Altern Complement Med 2007; 13:355-60. [PMID: 17480137 PMCID: PMC3065718 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2007.6351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although acupuncture-needle manipulation is an important component of acupuncture therapy, little information is currently available on whether or not specific types of needle manipulation produce different effects on the body. Bidirectional (back-and-forth) rotation is one of the most common forms of needle manipulation used in acupuncture practice. OBJECTIVES In this study, we hypothesized that bidirectional acupuncture needle rotation causes dose-dependent active cytoskeletal remodeling in connective tissue fibroblasts similar to that previously demonstrated with unidirectional rotation. INTERVENTIONS Subcutaneous tissue explants from 18 mice were randomized to varying amounts of bidirectional rotation cycles (8-64) and rotation-cycle amplitude (180 degrees -720 degrees ) ex vivo for 30 minutes, followed by tissue fixation, confocal microscopy, and measurement of fibroblast cell body cross-sectional area. RESULTS As with unidirectional rotation, fibroblasts responded to bidirectional rotation with extensive cell spreading and lamellipodia formation. Bidirectional needle rotation had a significant overall effect on fibroblast cell body cross sectional area (analysis of variance, p < 0.001). The cellular response to bidirectional rotation was nonmonotonic with maximal responses occurring within specific stimulus windows with regard to cycle amplitude and cycle number. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that subtle differences in acupuncture-needle manipulation techniques can affect cellular responses in mouse subcutaneous connective tissue. Further studies will be needed to determine whether these connective-tissue responses are related to therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene M Langevin
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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Langevin HM, Rizzo DM, Fox JR, Badger GJ, Wu J, Konofagou EE, Stevens-Tuttle D, Bouffard NA, Krag MH. Dynamic morphometric characterization of local connective tissue network structure in humans using ultrasound. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2007; 1:25. [PMID: 17550618 PMCID: PMC1913929 DOI: 10.1186/1752-0509-1-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2006] [Accepted: 06/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background In humans, connective tissue forms a complex, interconnected network throughout the body that may have mechanosensory, regulatory and signaling functions. Understanding these potentially important phenomena requires non-invasive measurements of collagen network structure that can be performed in live animals or humans. The goal of this study was to show that ultrasound can be used to quantify dynamic changes in local connective tissue structure in vivo. We first performed combined ultrasound and histology examinations of the same tissue in two subjects undergoing surgery: in one subject, we examined the relationship of ultrasound to histological images in three dimensions; in the other, we examined the effect of a localized tissue perturbation using a previously developed robotic acupuncture needling technique. In ten additional non-surgical subjects, we quantified changes in tissue spatial organization over time during needle rotation vs. no rotation using ultrasound and semi-variogram analyses. Results 3-D renditions of ultrasound images showed longitudinal echogenic sheets that matched with collagenous sheets seen in histological preparations. Rank correlations between serial 2-D ultrasound and corresponding histology images resulted in high positive correlations for semi-variogram ranges computed parallel (r = 0.79, p < 0.001) and perpendicular (r = 0.63, p < 0.001) to the surface of the skin, indicating concordance in spatial structure between the two data sets. Needle rotation caused tissue displacement in the area surrounding the needle that was mapped spatially with ultrasound elastography and corresponded to collagen bundles winding around the needle on histological sections. In semi-variograms computed for each ultrasound frame, there was a greater change in the area under the semi-variogram curve across successive frames during needle rotation compared with no rotation. The direction of this change was heterogeneous across subjects. The frame-to-frame variability was 10-fold (p < 0.001) greater with rotation than with no rotation indicating changes in tissue structure during rotation. Conclusion The combination of ultrasound and semi-variogram analyses allows quantitative assessment of dynamic changes in the structure of human connective tissue in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene M Langevin
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Donna M Rizzo
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - James R Fox
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Gary J Badger
- Department of Medical Biostatistics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Junru Wu
- Department of Physics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Elisa E Konofagou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Martin H Krag
- Department of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
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Storch KN, Taatjes DJ, Bouffard NA, Locknar S, Bishop NM, Langevin HM. Alpha smooth muscle actin distribution in cytoplasm and nuclear invaginations of connective tissue fibroblasts. Histochem Cell Biol 2007; 127:523-30. [PMID: 17310383 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-007-0275-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Alpha smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) was recently shown to be present in mouse subcutaneous tissue fibroblasts in the absence of tissue injury. In this study, we used a combination of immunohistochemistry and correlative confocal scanning laser and electron microscopy to investigate the structural organization of alpha-SMA in relation to the nucleus. Furthermore, we explored colocalization analysis as a method for quantifying the amount of alpha-SMA in close approximation to the nucleic acid marker, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indole, dihydrochloride. Our findings indicate the presence of alpha-SMA within nuclear invaginations in close proximity to the nuclear membrane, but not in the nucleoplasm. Although the function of these alpha-SMA-rich nuclear invaginations is at present unknown, the morphology of these structures suggests their possible involvement in cellular and nuclear mechanotransduction as well as nuclear transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten N Storch
- Department of Neurology, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
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Taatjes DJ, Zuber C, Roth J. The histochemistry and cell biology vade mecum: a review of 2005–2006. Histochem Cell Biol 2006; 126:743-88. [PMID: 17149649 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-006-0253-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2006] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The procurement of new knowledge and understanding in the ever expanding discipline of cell biology continues to advance at a breakneck pace. The progress in discerning the physiology of cells and tissues in health and disease has been driven to a large extent by the continued development of new probes and imaging techniques. The recent introduction of semi-conductor quantum dots as stable, specific markers for both fluorescence light microscopy and electron microscopy, as well as a virtual treasure-trove of new fluorescent proteins, has in conjunction with newly introduced spectral imaging systems, opened vistas into the seemingly unlimited possibilities for experimental design. Although it oftentimes proves difficult to predict what the future will hold with respect to advances in disciplines such as cell biology and histochemistry, it is facile to look back on what has already occurred. In this spirit, this review will highlight some advancements made in these areas in the past 2 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas J Taatjes
- Department of Pathology, Microscopy Imaging Center, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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