ABSTRACT
This study describes a new species of Pinnularia, P.hupingensissp. nov., on the basis of light and scanning electron microscope images. Pinnulariahupingensissp. nov. is characterised by its linear valve outline, extremely divergent striae, and very large hexagonal central area occupying ca. 1/5-1/8 of the valve length. The primary and secondary sides of the valve and the internal proximal raphe fissures are discussed. The new species is compared to similar taxa of the genus Pinnularia.
ABSTRACT
Despite the widespread clinical use of acupuncture in the treatment of pruritus caused by psoriasis, urticaria, uremic, and other diseases, insights into the mechanism of action of acupuncture are still emerging. For the above reasons, a beneficial effect of acupuncture on pruritus was not recommended or reported in recent clinical practice guidelines. Acupuncture is a kind of physical stimulation, which has the characteristics of multi-channel and multi-target effects. The biomechanical stimulation signal of acupuncture needling can be transformed into bioelectric and chemical signals; interfere with kinds of cells and nerve fibers in the skin and muscle; alter signaling pathways and transcriptional activity of cells, mediators, and receptors; and result in inhibition of peripheral and central transmission of pruritus. Available mechanistic data give insights into the biological regulation potency of acupuncture for pruritus and provide a basis for more in-depth and comprehensive mechanism research.