Yin Deficiency Constitution Research Articles

Correlation Analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitution and Metabolic Indexes in General Physical Examination People.

Analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitution type general medical patients and the relationship between the metabolic index. A cohort of 1,029 general individuals who underwent a physical examination at the Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine for identification of their TCM constitution between January 2021 and April 2023 were included in this study. Their data were sorted and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS26.0 statistical software. Among the 1029 study participants, the balanced constitution (BC) type was the most prevalent (33.24%), and the blood stasis constitution (BSC) type was the least prevalent (2.62%). Compared with BC, phlegm-dampness constitution (PDC) (P=0.000), yang-deficiency constitution (YADC) (P=0.000) and BSC (P=0.008) had significant differences in body mass index (BMI) (P<α). The systolic blood pressure (SBP) of PDC was different (P=0.042, P<α). There was a significant difference in diastolic blood pressure (P=0.001, P<α). The diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of YADC was significantly different (P=0.001, P<α). Yin-deficiency constitution (YIDC) (P = 0.007) and YADC differences between fasting blood glucose (FBG) (P = 0.025) were significantly (P<α). There were significant differences in uric acid (UA) of YADC (P=0.000), BSC (P=0.004), PDC (P=0.007) and qi-stagnation constitution (QSC) (P=0.012, P<α). The triglyceride (TG) of YADC (P=0.000) and PDC (P=0.005) were significantly different (P<α). There was a difference in total cholesterol (TC) between PDC (P=0.046) and BC (P<α). BSC (P = 0.028) and PDC (P = 0.023) of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) also had a significant difference (P<α). People with PDC, YADC and BSC had more abnormal metabolic indexes than people with BC, and the metabolic indexes of people with YIDC constitution were different from those with BC. Individuals with these four TCM constitution types should pay attention to making appropriate changes in lifestyles and dietary habits and take required measures to prevent the incidence and development of metabolic diseases.

The correlation between traditional Chinese medicine constitution and primary osteoporosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

In recent years, as societal awareness of the risks associated with primary osteoporosis (POP) has deepened, numerous studies have explored the relationship between POP and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitution types. To further clarify the TCM constitution types closely associated with POP and provide evidence-based medical support for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis from a TCM perspective, we have employed evidence-based methods to investigate the relationship between POP and TCM constitution types. We conducted a comprehensive search of observational studies on the relationship between POP and TCM constitutional types in databases, including PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP), up to October 2023. After literature selection, data extraction, and bias assessment, 29 studies were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 20 cross-sectional studies and 9 case-control studies. Using R software (version 4.2.3), we analyzed the distribution of TCM constitutional types in POP patients and compared the TCM constitutional types between POP patients and healthy individuals. The meta-analysis results revealed that in POP patients, Yang-deficiency constitution accounted for 22.7% (95% CI: 19.8-25.8%), Yin-deficiency constitution accounted for 15.8% (95% CI: 13.0-18.6%), and Qi-deficiency constitution accounted for 14.1% (95% CI: 12.2-16.0%). The proportions of the three mentioned TCM constitutions all exceed that of the Balanced constitution, with the balanced constitution accounting for 12.3% (95% CI: 7.4-18.1%). The proportions of Yang-deficiency, Yin-deficiency, and Qi-deficiency constitutions were higher in POP patients compared to healthy individuals, with odds ratios (OR) of 2.36 (95% CI: 1.43-3.89), 1.69 (95% CI: 1.36-2.04), and 1.80 (95% CI: 1.23-2.64), respectively, while the Balanced type was lower in POP patients with an OR of 0.16 (95% CI: 0.11-0.23) compared to healthy individuals. The evidence suggests that the Yang-deficiency constitution, Yin-deficiency constitution, and Qi-deficiency constitution are the predominant TCM constitutional types in POP patients. Furthermore, Yang-deficiency constitution, Yin-deficiency constitution, and Qi-deficiency constitution may serve as potential risk factors for POP, while the Balanced constitution may act as a protective factor.

Traditional Chinese medicine constitution and sarcopenia: a cross-sectional study.

Sarcopenia is a gradually advancing systemic disorder affecting skeletal muscles, primarily distinguished by diminished muscle mass and functional decline. As of present, a universally accepted diagnostic criterion for sarcopenia has yet to be established. From the perspective of the constitution theory in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the Yin-deficiency constitution is believed to have a significant correlation with the development of sarcopenia. The primary objective of this study was to examine the potential association between sarcopenia and Yin-deficiency constitution. The present study is a cross-sectional analysis. The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) recommended a diagnostic criterion for sarcopenia. A total of 141 participants over 50 years of age were diagnosed with sarcopenia. To determine the constitution of each patient, classification and determination standards were used in traditional Chinese medicine. In this study, a combination of logistic regression and propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to analyze a dataset comprising 1,372 eligible observations. The diagnostic efficacy of the test in distinguishing sarcopenia was assessed through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The relationship between Yin-deficiency constitution and sarcopenia was examined using logistic regression analysis. In the crude model, the odds ratio (OR) was found to be 3.20 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.70-6.03). After adjusting for various confounding factors, including gender, sex, 6 m walking test/(m/s), SMI, and maximum grip strength/kg, the OR increased to 9.70 (95% CI: 3.20-69.38). The associations between seven other biased traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitutions and sarcopenia were not found to be statistically significant in the fully adjusted model. The propensity score matching (PSM) analysis yielded consistent results with the logistic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the AUC of the Yin-deficiency constitution combined with age and gender reached 0.707. Among the nine TCM constitutions examined, the Yin-deficiency constitution demonstrates an independent association with sarcopenia. Yin-deficiency constitution may serve as a potential risk factor for the development of sarcopenia. To establish a causal relationship, further experimental investigations are warranted. The diagnostic performance of sarcopenia is effectively demonstrated by the Yin-deficiency constitution combined with age and gender.

Development of an interpretable machine learning model associated with genetic indicators to identify Yin-deficiency constitution

BackgroundTraditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) defines constitutions which are relevant to corresponding diseases among people. As one of the common constitutions, Yin-deficiency constitution influences a number of Chinese population in the disease onset. Therefore, accurate Yin-deficiency constitution identification is significant for disease prevention and treatment.MethodsIn this study, we collected participants with Yin-deficiency constitution and balanced constitution, separately. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and logistic regression were used to analyze genetic predictors. Four machine learning models for Yin-deficiency constitution classification with multiple combined genetic indicators were integrated to analyze and identify the optimal model and features. The Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) interpretation was developed for model explanation.ResultsThe results showed that, NFKBIA, BCL2A1 and CCL4 were the most associated genetic indicators with Yin-deficiency constitution. Random forest with three genetic predictors including NFKBIA, BCL2A1 and CCL4 was the optimal model, area under curve (AUC): 0.937 (95% CI 0.844–1.000), sensitivity: 0.870, specificity: 0.900. The SHAP method provided an intuitive explanation of risk leading to individual predictions.ConclusionWe constructed a Yin-deficiency constitution classification model based on machine learning and explained it with the SHAP method, providing an objective Yin-deficiency constitution identification system in TCM and the guidance for clinicians.

THE DISTRIBUTION OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE BODY CONSTITUTIONS AND THE FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DEPRESSION AMONG ELDERLY IN PATIENTS IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE HOSPITAL OF THUA THIEN HUE

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to explore the distribution of Traditional Medicine (TM) body constitutions, examine the factors associated with depression among elderly inpatients in Traditional Medicine Hospital of Thua Thien Hue, and further contribute to enhancing the value of traditional medicine theory's quintessence in preventing depression in medical facilities and in the community. Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study of 420 elderly inpatients in Traditional Medicine Hospital of Thua Thien Hue from July 2022 to March 2024, screening for depression, using the Geriatric Depression Scale 30 items (GDS-30) and determining the TM body constitutions, using the Constitution in Traditional Medicine questionnaire (CCMQ). The multiple logistic regression model was applied to examine the factors associated with depression. Results: The proportion of the balanced constitution was the lowest (0%). Among the unbalanced constitutions, the highest proportion was the Phlegm-dampness constitution (70.2%), followed by Qi stagnation constitution (66.9%), Yin deficiency constitution (62.6%), Blood-stasis constitution (58.3%), Qi deficiency constitution (56.6%), Dampness-heat constitution (46.9%), Inherited-special constitution (38.8%) and the lowest was Yang deficiency constitution (31.9%). The higher odds of depression were observed in Qi stagnation constitution (p &lt; 0.001, OR = 5.787, 95%CI: 3.275 – 10.227), Qi deficiency constitution (p &lt; 0.001, OR = 4.369, 95%CI: 2.643 – 7.222), Yang deficiency constitution (p &lt; 0.001, OR = 3.682, 95%CI: 2.097 – 6.277), Gender (p &lt; 0.001, OR = 3.451, 95%CI: 1.980 – 6.017), Dampness-heat constitution (p &lt; 0.001, OR = 2.534, 95%CI: 1.545 – 4.156), Inherited-special constitution (p = 0.003, OR = 2.160, 95%CI: 1.302 – 3.584) and Yin deficiency constitution (p = 0.028, OR = 1.771, 95%CI: 1.064 – 2.948). Conclusion: This study indicated the distributions of TM body constitutions and the factors associated with depression among elderly inpatients in Traditional Medicine Hospital of Thua Thien Hue. Therefore, the assessment of the TM body constitutions contributes to the prevention strategy and early detection of depression in the health facilities as well as in the community.

Effects of Practicing Baduanjin on Cognitive Function and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitution for Mild Cognitive Impairment

This study investigated changes in cognitive function and Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitution (TCMC) over 3 months among 30 individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). The participants were divided into an intervention group practicing Baduanjin and a control group. Before the intervention, biased constitution was more prevalent than balanced constitution, with a notable prevalence of yang-deficiency constitution (40.7%), blood stasis constitution (33.3%), and yin-deficiency constitution (29.6%)

Correlation analysis of hypertension, traditional Chinese medicine constitution, and LPL gene polymorphism in the elderly in communities in Shanghai.

Research on the genetic mechanisms of hypertension has been a hot topic in the cardiovascular field. To study the correlation between senile hypertension and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitution and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene polymorphism and to provide the theoretical basis for TCM prevention and treatment of hypertension. The elderly population in communities in Shanghai (hypertensive: 264 cases; non-hypertensive: 159 cases) was taken as the research object. Essential data and information on TCM constitution were collected. The LPL gene mutation was detected using the second-generation sequencing method. Statistical analysis was performed to clarify the relationship between hypertension and senile hypertension. The correlation of TCM constitution with risk factors and LPL gene polymorphisms was studied. The primary TCM constitutions in the hypertension group were phlegm-dampness constitution (51.52%), yin-deficiency constitution (17.42%), balanced constitution (15.53%), and yin-deficiency (9.43%). Logistic regression analysis showed that the phlegm-dampness constitution (P< 0.05, OR = 2.587) and yin-deficiency constitution (P< 0.01, OR = 2.693) were the risk constitutions of hypertension in the elderly. A total of 37 LPL gene mutation loci (SNP: 22; new discovery: 15) were detected in the LPL gene, and the mutation rates of rs254, rs255, rs3208305, rs316, rs11570891, rs328, rs11570893, and rs13702 were relatively high, which were 26.24%, 26.24%, 16.08%, 14.66%, 13.24%, 12.06%, and 10.64%. In the phlegm-dampness group, the proportion of rs254 CC type, rs255 TT type, and rs13702 TT type in the hypertensive group (77.21%, 77.21%, and 93.38%) was higher than that in the non-hypertensive group (56.41%, 56.41%, and 82.05%), The difference was statistically significant (P< 0.05). The phlegm-dampness constitution and yin-deficiency constitution are the risk factors of hypertension in the elderly; in the phlegm-dampness population, rs254 CC type, rs255 TT type, and rs13702 TT type are the risk factors for elderly hypertension.

Validation of the Cantonese version of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Body constitution Questionnaire in elderly people

BackgroundThe Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Body Constitution Questionnaire (For Elderly People) (TCMECQ) is a patient-reported outcome questionnaire developed in Mandarin in 2013 to differentiate the body constitutions of the elderly aged 65 and above. Considering the cultural and linguistic differences between Mainland China and Hong Kong (HK) Special Administrative Region, the TCMECQ was translated into Cantonese following “back translation” policy and validated in proper process.MethodsTen Chinese Medicine Practitioners (CMPs) and 30 senior citizens aged 65 or above were recruited to evaluate the first version of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Body Constitution Questionnaire (For Elderly People) (Cantonese version) (TCMECQ-C). Based on their comments, the second version was developed and discussed in the panel meeting to form the third version, validated the third version on 270 recruited seniors. Based on the validation results, a panel of 5 experts finalized the Questionnaire as the final version. The TCMECQ-C developers finalized the Questionnaire as the validated endorsed third version (i.e. final version).ResultsThe item-level content validity index of most items of the TCMECQ-C (First Version) were ranging from 0.80 to 1.00 in terms of clarity, relevance and appropriateness. Factor loadings of Qi-deficiency Constitution ranging from 0.37 to 0.71, Yang-deficiency Constitution ranging from 0.36 to 0.65, Yin-deficiency Constitution ranging from 0.36 to 0.65, and Stagnant Qi Constitution ranging from 0.68 to 0.82. The chi-squared degree-of-freedom ratio was 2.13 (928.63/436), Goodness-of-Fit Index (0.83), Adjusted Goodness-of-Fit Index (0.79), Normed Fit Index (0.66), Comparative Fit Index (0.78), Incremental Fit Index (0.78), Relative Fit Index (0.61) and Tucker–Lewis Index (0.75), and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (0.07) and Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (0.07), implied acceptable Confirmatory Factor Analysis model fit of the overall scale. A Pearson correlation coefficient (r) showed the sufficient convergent validity for excessive subscales (Phlegm-dampness Constitution and Dampness-heat Constitution with r = 0.35, p < 0.01). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient ranged from 0.56 to 0.89, including Qi-deficiency Constitution (0.67), Yang-deficiency Constitution (0.84), Yin-deficiency Constitution (0.59), Stagnant Blood Constitution (0.56), Stagnant Qi Constitution (0.89), Inherited Special Constitution (0.76) and Balanced Constitution (0.73), indicating acceptable internal consistency for subscales. The intra-class correlation coefficients of the TCMECQ-C ranged from 0.70 to 0.87 (p < 0.001), indicating moderate to good test–retest reliability.ConclusionTCMECQ-C is a valid and reliable questionnaire for assessing the body constitution in Cantonese elderly.

Chinese Medicine Constitution that Influences Sleep Quality and Fatigue among Chinese Nurses Working in Shifts in Japan and China

Nurses who work in shifts may face poor sleep quality and oppressive fatigue. The purpose of this study was to clarify Chinese medicine constitution that influences sleep quality and fatigue among Chinese nurses engaged in shift work. Considering that these conditions might differ according to living environments, studies were conducted both in Japan and China. Data were gathered using the attributes of nurses, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to evaluate sleep quality, the Jikaku-sho shirabe to evaluate fatigue, and the Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire, which evaluates Chinese medicine constitution according to nine criteria. The survey was conducted via internet, with data analyzed from 100 Chinese subjects in Japan and 100 Chinese subjects in China. Increase in age, living in China, Qi-deficiency constitution and Blood-stasis constitution were causal factors for lower sleep quality. Sleep quality was significantly lower among nurses in China than those in Japan. The following factors were observed to be causal factors for increased fatigue: longer histories of working in shifts, living in Japan, poorer quality sleep, Qi-deficiency constitution, Yang- and Yin-deficiency constitution, Qi-stagnation constitution and Inherited special constitution. Nurses in Japan showed significantly greater fatigue at the end of a night shift than did those in China. It is suggested that adjustments of Qi-deficiency constitution and Blood-stasis constitution can improve sleep quality in nurses who work in shifts. We believe that improving sleep quality and making adjustments to the five types of Chinese medicine constitution can work to reduce fatigue.

Relationship between traditional Chinese medicine constitution and pregnancy outcome in elderly primiparae

Purpose: To investigate the correlation between traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitution and pregnancy outcomes in elderly primiparae.Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted on 113 elderly primiparae who were delivered in Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China from January 2019 to December 2019. The elderly primiparae was the study group. Using a random ratio of 1:3, 393 primiparous women of suitable age who were delivered in the hospital at the same period were selected as the control group. A traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) questionnaire was used to collect clinical data, and differences between the two groups were compared.Results: The incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus was significantly higher in the study group (elderl y primiparae) with phlegm dampness constitution and qi stagnation constitution than in control group (appropriate-age primiparae) (p &lt; 0.05). The incidence of hypertension was significantly higher in the study group with yin deficiency constitution and special constitution than in control group (p &lt; 0.05). The frequency of selective cesarean section in study group with a biased qi-deficiency constitution, yang-deficiency constitution, and yin-deficiency constitution were significantly higher than control group (p &lt; 0.05).Conclusion: There is a correlation between pregnancy outcomes in old age and TCM constitution. Individualized diet and exercise programs may be formulated in early pregnancy (based on the type of physique) to improve pregnancy outcomes in elderly primiparae.

Alterations in gut microbiota and urine metabolomics in infants with yin-deficiency constitution aged 0–2 years

BackgroundBased on the constitution theroy, infants are classified into balanced constitution (BC) and unbalanced constitution. Yin-deficiency constitution (YINDC) is a common type of unbalanced constitutions in Chinese infants. An infant's gut microbiota directly affects the child's health and has long-term effects on the maturation of the immune and endocrine systems throughout life. However, the gut microbiota of infants with YINDC remains unknown. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the intestinal flora profiles and urinary metabolites in infant with YINDC, find biomarkers to identify YINDC, and promote our understanding of infant constitution classification. MethodsConstitutional Medicine Questionnaires were used to assess the infants’ constitution types. 47 infants with 21 cases of YINDC and 26 cases of BC were included, and a cross-sectional sampling of stool and urine was conducted. Fecal microbiota was characterized using 16S rRNA sequencing, and urinary metabolomics was profiled using UPLC-Q-TOF/MS method. YINDC markers with high accuracy were identified using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. ResultsThe diversity and composition of intestinal flora and urinary metabolites differed significantly between the YINDC and BC groups. A total of 13 obviously different genera and 55 altered metabolites were identified. Stool microbiome shifts were associated with urine metabolite changes. A combined marker comprising two genera may have a high potential to identify YINDC with an AUC of 0.845. ConclusionsInfants with YINDC had a unique gut microbiota and metabolomic profile resulting in a constitutional microclassification. The altered gut microbiome in YINDC may account for the higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. Metabolomic analysis of urine showed that metabolic pathways, including histidine metabolism, proximal tubule bicarbonate reclamation, arginine biosynthesis, and steroid hormone biosynthesis, were altered in infants with YINDC. Additionally, the combined bacterial biomarker had the ability to identify YINDC. Identifying YINDC in infancy and intervening at an early stage is crucial for preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Traditional Chinese Medicine constitution types of high-normal blood pressure: A meta-analysis

ObjectiveWe determined the distribution of constitutional types of high-normal blood pressure in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and provided evidence for the prevention of high-normal blood pressure and hypertension. MethodsEight digital databases were searched from January 2011 to November 2022, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, CNKI, CBM, Wangfang, and CQVIP. We performed a meta-analysis with the random-effects model or fixed-effects model to describe the distribution of constitutional types of high-normal blood pressure in TCM. The studies were assessed based on heterogeneity testing and the potential for publication bias. The meta-analysis was performed on Stata software 15.0. ResultsA total of 17 studies with 8118 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The proportion of the biased constitution (82.3%; 95% CI: 75.6%–89.1%, p < 0.001) was higher than the balanced constitution (17.3%; 95% CI: 10.7–23.8%, p < 0.001). Phlegm-dampness constitution, Yin-deficiency constitution, and damp-heat constitution accounted for 16.0% (95%CI: 10.5–21.5%, p < 0.001), 14.8% (95% CI: 11.0–18.6%, p < 0.001), 11.3% (95% CI: 8.0–14.5%, p < 0.001) of the total high-normal blood pressure cases, respectively. The subgroup analyses performed that region, age and gender were positively associated with the distribution of constitution types of high-normal blood pressure in TCM. Compared with the general population, the risk of high-normal blood pressure in people with the phlegm-dampness constitution, Yin-deficiency constitution, and blood-stasis constitution was 2.665 (95%CI: 2.286–3.106, p < 0.001), 2.378 (95%CI: 1.197–4.724, p = 0.013), 1.965 (95%CI: 1.634–2.363, p < 0.001) times of the general population, respectively. Meanwhile, the risk of high-normal blood pressure was lower in people with a balanced constitution (0.248, 95%CI: 0.165–0.372, p < 0.001). ConclusionsPhlegm-dampness constitution, Yin-deficiency constitution, and damp-heat constitution were the common constitution types of high-normal blood pressure. There might also be differences in the distribution characteristics of TCM constitution among people with high-normal blood pressure in different regions, ages, and genders. Finally, a balanced constitution might be a protective factor for hypertensive people.

The Relationships between Leptin, Genotype, and Chinese Medicine Body Constitution for Obesity

Methods The adults with body mass index (BMI) more than 27 kg/m2 were enrolled in the study. General personal information, physical condition, TCMBC, biochemical, and SNPs were collected for eligible subjects. The body constitution questionnaire (BCQ) was used to evaluate the relationships between TCMBC tendency, biochemical values, and obesity-related SNPs. Results Obesity patients tended to have a yin deficiency constitution (YinDC) (n = 33, 66.0%); however, TCMBC in combination is not uncommon (30 subjects with more than two TCMBC in combination). For biochemical profiles, leptin was higher among patients with yang deficiency constitution (YangDC) (YangDC versus non-YangDC: 29.7 ± 24.8 versus 15.9 ± 9.9, P=0.020) and YinDC (YinDC versus non-YinDC: 28.8 ± 23.5 versus 14.4 ± 9.6, P=0.020). The leptin level was highest among YangDC subjects. Higher leptin was found among subjects with three-combined TCMBC than balanced TCMBC subjects who were not inclined to any of three TCMBC. For obesity-related SNPs, the adrenergic receptor beta-3 (ADRB3) gene tended to be high expression among YangDC (YangDC versus non-YangDC: 89.7% versus 71.4%, P=0.091) and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) tended to be high expression among phlegm-stasis constitution (PSC) (PSC versus non-PSC: 37.9% versus 9.5%, P=0.052). Conclusions The relationships between TCMBC, leptin, and SNPs present alternative viewpoints about TCMBC and could be used as a guide to treat obese patients.

The Correlation between Demographical and Lifestyle Factors and Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitution among Macau Elderly Individuals.

Objectives To measure the distributed characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitutions, as well as related factors with biased TCM constitutions among the elderly individuals in Macau. Methods The elderly individuals from elderly healthcare centers located in Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane were selected as research samples. The basic information questionnaire and the Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CCMQ) for elderly were employed. Descriptive analysis was applied to illustrate demographical characteristics and TCM constitution distribution. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to explore potential factors influencing biased constitutions, and weight of each variable for constitution was further calculated. Results A total of 313 participants were recruited. Eighty-six (27.48%) elderly were identified as balanced constitution; others were biased constitutions accounting for 72.52%. Distribution differences related to gender and age were identified among participants with unbalanced constitutions. Four biased constitutions were further analyzed with EFA. For qi-stagnation and yang-deficiency constitutions, three similar factors were determined in the domains of education, sleeping habits, and lifestyle behaviors, successively. Although four factors were identified in phlegm-dampness constitution, the latter two belonged to lifestyle behaviors and the former two were education and sleeping habits. For yin-deficiency constitution, education, tobacco-alcohol consumption, sleeping habits, and exercise were four dimensions of potential influential factors. Tobacco consumption, sleep, and exercise duration weighted the most for qi-stagnation constitution; sleep duration, education level, and sugar-containing beverage intake for phlegm-dampness; length of education, alcohol consumption, and education level for yang-deficiency constitution; and weekly exercise hours, sleep duration, and education level for yin-deficiency constitution. Conclusion The prevalence rate of biased constitutions was relatively high among elderly residents in Macau. Relations between demographical and lifestyle behavioral factors and biased constitutions were identified in this study. Controlling these influential factors might be beneficial for health management of Macau elderly individuals.

The relationship of CCL4, BCL2A1, and NFKBIA genes with premature aging in women of Yin deficiency constitution.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) defined constitution as a health statue or physical fitness that determines individual susceptibility to diseases. Yin deficiency constitution (YinDC) is a type of constitution closely related to aging. Previous studies found that the characteristic genes of YinDC are part of the inflammatory aging signaling pathways (e.g., NF-kappa B). Therefore, the aim of the study was to further reveal the dysregulation of genes associated with inflammatory aging in YinDC women. This study adopted the industrial standard of constitutional judgment, and screened YinDC (n=30) and Balanced constitution (BC) (n=30) from women between the ages of 35 to 49, a range categorized as the degenerating period by TCM. Five genes CCL4, BCL2A1, NFKBIA, TAK1, and IL-8 were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Logistical regression revealed the correlation between body constitution and the expression of the five genes: the expression of NFKBIA and CCL4 mRNA was significantly up-regulated, whereas the expression of BCL2A1 mRNA was significantly down-regulated in YinDC (P<0.05). Age or weight, when included in the model, did not affected the correlations. Increased mRNA expression of CCL4 and NFKBIA and decreased mRNA expression of BCL2A1 may be the molecular basis of premature aging of YinDC women. These results provide a mechanistic basis for early conditioning of YinDC, anti-aging, and the prevention of aging-related diseases.

Survey of the TCM Constitution and exercise habits of 672 students in a college of Shaanxi province

Objective: The purpose of this study is exploring the influence of physical exercise on the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) constitution of college students and providing evidence for the intervention methods of college students' TCM constitution by the survey of the TCM Constitution and exercise habits of 672 students in the college of Shaanxi province. Methods: All 672 students who are from three grades in the university were investigated by using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Constitution Scale and the self-made questionnaire on exercise habits. Results: Among 672 college students, 203 students were in gentleness type (30.2%), 447 students were in biased types (66.5%).Among 447 biased types of students, 252 cases (37.5%) were in Yang-deficiency constitution, 236 cases (35.1%) were in Yin-deficiency constitution and 224 cases (33.3%) were in Qi-deficiency constitution. The probability of gentleness type of college students with exercise habit is higher than those doing little exercise, and the probability of biased types are lower than that without exercise habit. Among the college students who have the habits of exercising, the students doing aerobic exercises showed a lower level of biased types than those doing strength training or flexibility training. The exercise frequency was negatively correlated with Qi-deficiency constitution, Yang-deficiency constitution, Phlegm-dampness constitution and Qi-stagnation constitution (r=0.041, 0.003, 0.005, 0.024), the exercise time was negatively correlated with Phlegm-dampness constitution (r=0.026), and positively correlated with Special-diathesis constitution (r=0.038), all the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05, P<0.01). Conclusion: The distribution of biased types has a particularly prominent feature between college students who have exercise habit and those who have no exercise habits. Among the three common exercise modes, the improvement of aerobic exercise on biased types is better than strength training or flexibility training. The increase of exercise frequency and exercise duration are both beneficial to improve students' Phlegm-dampness constitution. It is of great significance to formulate corresponding non-drug health care intervention methods according to different TCM constitution types to improve college students' quality of life.

Constitutions of Deficiency and Stasis of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Related Factors among Middle-Aged Women in Taiwan.

Background Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) appears to be the common therapy in middle-aged women. The constitution serves as a guide for TCM treatment. However, little is known about the constitution and related factors in middle-aged women. The objectives of this study were to describe the yang-deficiency, yin-deficiency, and stasis constitutions in middle-aged women. Demographic and health factors related to yang deficiency, yin deficiency, and stasis were also examined. Methods A total of 1,000 women aged 40–65 years were selected from 2009 through 2018 using random sampling from the Taiwan Biobank Research Database in Taiwan. Yang-deficiency, yin-deficiency, and stasis were assessed using the body constitution questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with constitution in deficiency or stasis. Results The proportions of middle-aged women who had the constitution in yang-deficiency, yin-deficiency, and stasis were 29.7%, 21.7%, and 17.7%, respectively. The result of binary logistic regression showed that current menstruation, abnormal spirometry, and education level were predictive factors of yang deficiency. Women with younger age, abnormal spirometry, or a vegetarian diet had a significantly associated yin deficiency. Younger age, abnormal spirometry, and coffee habit were predictors of stasis. Conclusions Middle-aged women in Taiwan with abnormal spirometry had a higher risk for deficiency or stasis constitutions, especially for those younger than 56 years. Healthcare providers should learn patients' constitutions and provide appropriate advice, referring them to safe providers of their desired method.

Correlation between Chinese Medicine Constitution and Skin Types: A Study on 187 Japanese Women.

Chinese medicine (CM) is widely applied in cosmetics and dermatology. The theory of CM believes that skin characterizations reflect the internal status of balance which can be represented by body constitution, but relevant studies are few. This study aims to analyze the relationship between body constitution of CM and skin condition. Participants were recruited from a private health and beauty clinic in Tokyo, Japan from June 2013 to January 2015. Each participant was assessed using Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CCMQ) for body constitution and the Baumann Skin Type Questionnaire for skin type. Spearman's rank correlation and stepwise multiple linear regression were used to investigate the effect of body constitutions on skin types. A total of 187 Japanese females were recruited in this study. Higher dampness-heat and phlegm-dampness scores were associated with oilier skin while higher qi-depression and blood-stasis were associated with drier skin. Higher score in Inherited Special and yin-deficiency constitutions tended to have more sensitive skin, and higher score in blood-stasis was associated with more pigmented skin and wrinkles. Our findings supported the "Constitution-Skin Correlated theory" in CM. Understanding of the association between skin conditions and the body constitutions might be helpful to explore more individualized treatment options for skin care and dermatological diseases through modifications of the unique body constitutions using CM modalities.

Standardized Auricular Therapy for Patients with Different Constitutions and Suboptimal Health: A Retrospective Study.

Objective: According to the guideline for preventive treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this study examined the efficacy of standardized auricular therapy for patients with different constitutions who had suboptimal health. To prevent the occurrence and development of diseases, it is necessary to find new positive and feasible methods. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of standardized auricular therapy for patients with different constitutions who had suboptimal health was conducted. The study included 176 patients with Qi Deficiency, Yang Deficiency, Yin Deficiency, Qi Stagnation, Phlegm Dampness, Blood Stasis, Damp-Heat, and Special Constitution. As the patients underwent treatment, they were examined with a weekly test for changes in symptoms for 4 weeks. Results: Using statistical analysis, the efficacy rate of treatment for patients with Yang deficiency was 83.90%. Other constitutional efficacy rates were: Yin Deficiency, 84.62%; Qi Deficiency, 75.00%; Qi Stagnation, 92.31%; Phlegm-Dampness, 82.69%; Damp-Heat, 84.84%; Blood Stasis, 71.43%; and Special Endowment, 83.33%. Conclusions: Standardized auricular therapy has curative effects on patients with a variety of constitutions and who have suboptimal health. This therapy can not only balance the constitutions of patients with suboptimal health but also can play an important role in the field of prevention and health-promoting medicine.

Influencing factors of the occurrence of propagated sensation effects at Zusanli (ST 36) based on artificial intelligence technology

To explore the influencing factors of the occurrence of propagated sensation effects at Zusanli (ST 36) based on artificial intelligence technology. A total of 272 undergraduates and postgraduates of Guangzhou University of TCM were recruited. The basic information, including TCM constitution, body weight index (BMI), pulse, tongue and coating, face complexion, as well as the occurrence of propagated sensation effects at Zusanli (ST 36) with different acupuncture needles and techniques, were recorded. The repeated incremental pruning to produce error reduction (RIPPER) algorithm was applied to predict the results and summarize the rules of relevant factors. ① The propagated sensation effects were often observed in the subject with yin-deficiency constitution (55 cases in total, of them 1 case was misclassified). ② The propagated sensation effects were observed in the subject with balanced yin-yang constitution (39 cases in total, of them 0 case was misclassified). ③ The propagated sensation effects were observed in the subject with phlegm-damp constitution combined with thin tongue and white coating (31 cases in total, of them 8 cases were misclassified). ④ The propagated sensation effects were observed in the subject with phlegm-damp constitution combined with light tongue coating (7 cases in total, of them 2 cases were misclassified). ⑤ The propagated sensation effects were observed in all the subject with special constitution (6 cases in total, of them 0 cases were misclassified). ⑥ The propagated sensation effects were not observed in the subject with other constitution or the combination of constitution and symptoms (134 cases in total, of them 4 cases were misclassified). The accuracy rate of classification was 94.49%. The difference of acupuncture needles and techniques was not significant in propagated sensation effects (P>0.05). The TCM constitution may be the most essential factor in the occurrence of propagated sensation effects.