Pub Date : 2023-09-07DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100022
Leonard A. Jason , Benjamin H. Natelson , Hector Bonilla , Zaki A. Sherif , Suzanne D. Vernon , Monica Verduzco Gutierrez , Lisa O’Brien , Emily Taylor , On behalf of the RECOVER consortium, by members of the Diagnostic Testing and Test Algorithms Subcommittee of the Commonalities with Other Post Viral Syndromes Task Force. We appreciate the edits and suggestions from Ben Z. Katz.
Four decades of research in the field of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) have yielded lessons that may be instructive for those devising criteria to better comprehend Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS CoV-2 Infection (PASC) and Long COVID. For instance, substantial effort has been devoted to defining classification systems, operationalizing methods, and developing instruments with adequate reliability and validity in the ME/CFS field. The current article provides guidelines for developing a case definition for Long COVID and discusses the significance of psychometric issues and criterion variance, including how to specify symptoms, and develop thresholds, subtypes, and exclusionary conditions. ME/CFS research could enhance our knowledge of Long COVID pathophysiology, early diagnosis, prognosis, and the identification of effective treatments.
{"title":"What Long COVID investigators can learn from four decades of ME/CFS research","authors":"Leonard A. Jason , Benjamin H. Natelson , Hector Bonilla , Zaki A. Sherif , Suzanne D. Vernon , Monica Verduzco Gutierrez , Lisa O’Brien , Emily Taylor , On behalf of the RECOVER consortium, by members of the Diagnostic Testing and Test Algorithms Subcommittee of the Commonalities with Other Post Viral Syndromes Task Force. We appreciate the edits and suggestions from Ben Z. Katz.","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100022","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100022","url":null,"abstract":"<div><p>Four decades of research in the field of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) have yielded lessons that may be instructive for those devising criteria to better comprehend Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS CoV-2 Infection (PASC) and Long COVID. For instance, substantial effort has been devoted to defining classification systems, operationalizing methods, and developing instruments with adequate reliability and validity in the ME/CFS field. The current article provides guidelines for developing a case definition for Long COVID and discusses the significance of psychometric issues and criterion variance, including how to specify symptoms, and develop thresholds, subtypes, and exclusionary conditions. ME/CFS research could enhance our knowledge of Long COVID pathophysiology, early diagnosis, prognosis, and the identification of effective treatments.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"4 ","pages":"Article 100022"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-09-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49709627","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-08-18DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100021
Sadia Nikhat , Mohammad Fazil
Background
The theriac, known in Arabic as tiryāq, is a medicinal panacea and an alexipharmic which was conceptualized during the 2nd century BC. During medieval ages, the Unani physicians employed various theriac formulations as an antidote, health-protective, and therapeutic in various disorders. In general, the theriac formulations contained many drugs having heath-protective, preventive, and restorative effects. Since the advent of COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a renewed interest in theriac formulations, and researches are underway to elaborate the scientific basis of their action mechanism. This article is an attempt to provide a comprehensive overview of theriac in Unani literature, as well as to elaborate on the potential mode of actions.
Methods
Selected authoritative and comprehensive textbooks of Unani medicine and leading scientific websites (MEDLINE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, and PubMed Central) were explored for information regarding the theriac in Unani classical literature, and its potential usefulness in the present era. No time duration was specified for the search as certain drugs are now relatively obsolete. The keywords used for the search were ‘theriac’, ‘health’, ‘bioactive constituents’, ‘infection’, and ‘antidote’, etc., accompanied by names of drugs.
Results
Pharmacological researches on theriac ingredients have revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds, having anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antipyretic, antivenin, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, etc. activities. An interesting step in theriac preparation is the process of maturation. It is scientifically proven that during maturation, the drugs undergo biotransformation through fermentation. Besides, certain drugs like Saffron, Celery, and Fennel, etc. increase bioavailability of other drugs. Overall, the Theriac formulations are a complex mixture of health-preservative, protective, therapeutic and restorative drugs.
Conclusions
The theriac formulations contain a thoughtful mixture of ingredients, which have health-protective as well as restorative effects. It is known that most toxins as well as biological disease-causing agents damage the vital organs and processes which lead to complications and death. Hence, the theriac formulations can provide the much-needed protection to these organs, and also maintain the physiological processes, and gives the body the necessary time and strength to recover from these adverse effects.
{"title":"Critical review and mechanistic insights into the health-protective and Immunomodulatory activity of Tiryāq (Theriac) from the purview of Unani medicine","authors":"Sadia Nikhat , Mohammad Fazil","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100021","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100021","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>The theriac, known in Arabic as <em>tiryāq</em>, is a medicinal panacea and an alexipharmic which was conceptualized during the 2nd century BC. During medieval ages, the Unani physicians employed various theriac formulations as an antidote, health-protective, and therapeutic in various disorders. In general, the theriac formulations contained many drugs having heath-protective, preventive, and restorative effects. Since the advent of COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a renewed interest in theriac formulations, and researches are underway to elaborate the scientific basis of their action mechanism. This article is an attempt to provide a comprehensive overview of theriac in Unani literature, as well as to elaborate on the potential mode of actions.</p></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><p>Selected authoritative and comprehensive textbooks of Unani medicine and leading scientific websites (MEDLINE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, and PubMed Central) were explored for information regarding the theriac in Unani classical literature, and its potential usefulness in the present era. No time duration was specified for the search as certain drugs are now relatively obsolete. The keywords used for the search were ‘theriac’, ‘health’, ‘bioactive constituents’, ‘infection’, and ‘antidote’, etc., accompanied by names of drugs.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>Pharmacological researches on theriac ingredients have revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds, having anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antipyretic, antivenin, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, etc. activities. An interesting step in theriac preparation is the process of maturation. It is scientifically proven that during maturation, the drugs undergo biotransformation through fermentation. Besides, certain drugs like Saffron, Celery, and Fennel, etc. increase bioavailability of other drugs. Overall, the Theriac formulations are a complex mixture of health-preservative, protective, therapeutic and restorative drugs.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>The theriac formulations contain a thoughtful mixture of ingredients, which have health-protective as well as restorative effects. It is known that most toxins as well as biological disease-causing agents damage the vital organs and processes which lead to complications and death. Hence, the theriac formulations can provide the much-needed protection to these organs, and also maintain the physiological processes, and gives the body the necessary time and strength to recover from these adverse effects.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"4 ","pages":"Article 100021"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-08-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49709803","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-08-14DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100020
Shashikiran HC , Sreegovind R , Krithika A Ramaswamy , Shivaprasad Shetty , Prashanth Shetty
Background
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in most developed and developing countries, thus representing one of the most significant health problems across the globe. The association between metabolic syndrome and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases has been proven by large multicentric studies. Calculating atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk has been advocated as a preventive strategy. A little is known about its utility and applicability of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk calculation in individuals predisposed to cardiovascular diseases such as individuals with metabolic syndrome. Practice of a multifaceted naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle is likely to improve cardiovascular health outcomes and may reduce healthcare costs in high-risk populations. Hence the present study aimed to evaluate the impact of naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle intervention on the calculated atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk among metabolic syndrome individuals.
Methods
This prospective single arm study recruited 70 individuals of both genders, with metabolic syndrome based on eligibility criteria. They underwent 10 days of supervised intensive naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle intervention in a residential center. Blood pressure, Anthropometric measures and metabolic risk factors were assessed before and after the intervention.
Results
There was also a substantial decrease in both systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) compared to baseline. There was a noteworthy decrease in weight (p < 0.001), Body mass index (p < 0.001), Waist circumference (p < 0.001), Hip circumference (p < 0.001) and Waist Hip Ratio (p = 0.005). The metabolic risk factors Fasting blood glucose (p < 0.001), Total cholesterol (p < 0.001), Triglycerides (p < 0.001), High-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01), Low-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01), Very low-density lipoprotein (p < 0.001), TC/HDL (p < 0.001) and non-HDL (p < 0.001) also showed a significant reduction. The 10-year (p < 0.001) and lifetime risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk was assessed and found to be significantly reduced after the intervention.
Conclusion
A multidimensional intensive naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle could be explored as a non-invasive and cost-effective measure in the mitigation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk in predisposed individuals.
{"title":"Impact of naturopathy and yoga based intervention on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk among metabolic syndrome individuals – A prospective single arm study","authors":"Shashikiran HC , Sreegovind R , Krithika A Ramaswamy , Shivaprasad Shetty , Prashanth Shetty","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100020","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100020","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in most developed and developing countries, thus representing one of the most significant health problems across the globe. The association between metabolic syndrome and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases has been proven by large multicentric studies. Calculating atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk has been advocated as a preventive strategy. A little is known about its utility and applicability of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk calculation in individuals predisposed to cardiovascular diseases such as individuals with metabolic syndrome. Practice of a multifaceted naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle is likely to improve cardiovascular health outcomes and may reduce healthcare costs in high-risk populations. Hence the present study aimed to evaluate the impact of naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle intervention on the calculated atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk among metabolic syndrome individuals.</p></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><p>This prospective single arm study recruited 70 individuals of both genders, with metabolic syndrome based on eligibility criteria. They underwent 10 days of supervised intensive naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle intervention in a residential center. Blood pressure, Anthropometric measures and metabolic risk factors were assessed before and after the intervention.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>There was also a substantial decrease in both systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) compared to baseline. There was a noteworthy decrease in weight (p < 0.001), Body mass index (p < 0.001), Waist circumference (p < 0.001), Hip circumference (p < 0.001) and Waist Hip Ratio (p = 0.005). The metabolic risk factors Fasting blood glucose (p < 0.001), Total cholesterol (p < 0.001), Triglycerides (p < 0.001), High-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01), Low-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01), Very low-density lipoprotein (p < 0.001), TC/HDL (p < 0.001) and non-HDL (p < 0.001) also showed a significant reduction. The 10-year (p < 0.001) and lifetime risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk was assessed and found to be significantly reduced after the intervention.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>A multidimensional intensive naturopathy and yoga-based lifestyle could be explored as a non-invasive and cost-effective measure in the mitigation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases risk in predisposed individuals.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"4 ","pages":"Article 100020"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-08-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49709796","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100016
Jianghong Liu , Haoer Shi , Tatia M.C. Lee
Objective
Cognitive decline can significantly affect individuals’ overall health and well-being. While Qigong may hold promise as an intervention strategy, the underlying brain mechanisms of its beneficial effects remain unclear, particularly in cognitively impaired (CI) populations. This systematic review aims to investigate Qigong-induced brain changes and their associations with cognitive functions in both healthy and CI populations. It further seeks to identify potential consistent or divergent brain change patterns across these populations.
Methods
Five English databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and 2 Chinese databases Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies with Qigong intervention and brain imaging outcomes from inception to March 2023. The quality of included studies was evaluated according to the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool.
Results
A total of 18 studies from 9 RCTs were included in this review. The results indicated that Qigong induced various structural and functional changes in multiple brain regions, including the frontal lobe, hippocampus and temporal gyrus, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), insula, putamen, and caudate, among others. Within the brain changes, the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were consistently reported across healthy and CI populations and were found to be associated with various cognitive functions.
Conclusions
Qigong exercise leads to diverse brain changes, with the alterations in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex likely contributing to its cognitive benefits. These findings provide support for the effectiveness of Qigong as a cognitive intervention.
认知能力下降会显著影响个体的整体健康和幸福感。虽然气功可能有望成为一种干预策略,但其有益作用的潜在大脑机制仍不清楚,尤其是在认知障碍人群中。这篇系统综述旨在研究气功引起的大脑变化及其与健康人群和CI人群认知功能的关系。它进一步试图确定这些人群中潜在的一致或不同的大脑变化模式。方法检索5个英文数据库PubMed、Cochrane Library、EMBASE、Web of Science、PsycINFO,以及2个中文数据库Wanfang和中国知网(CNKI),从开始到2023年3月进行气功干预和脑成像结果的随机对照试验(RCT)研究。纳入研究的质量根据Cochrane协作的偏倚风险工具进行评估。结果本综述共纳入9项随机对照试验的18项研究。结果表明,气功可引起大脑多个区域的各种结构和功能变化,包括额叶、海马和颞回、前扣带皮层(ACC)、脑岛、壳核和尾状核等。在大脑变化中,健康人群和CI人群中一致报告了前额叶皮层和海马体,并发现它们与各种认知功能有关。结论气功运动会导致不同的大脑变化,海马和前额叶皮层的变化可能是其认知益处的原因之一。这些发现为气功作为一种认知干预的有效性提供了支持。
{"title":"Qigong exercise and cognitive function in brain imaging studies: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials in healthy and cognitively impaired populations","authors":"Jianghong Liu , Haoer Shi , Tatia M.C. Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100016","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100016","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><p>Cognitive decline can significantly affect individuals’ overall health and well-being. While Qigong may hold promise as an intervention strategy, the underlying brain mechanisms of its beneficial effects remain unclear, particularly in cognitively impaired (CI) populations. This systematic review aims to investigate Qigong-induced brain changes and their associations with cognitive functions in both healthy and CI populations. It further seeks to identify potential consistent or divergent brain change patterns across these populations.</p></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><p>Five English databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and 2 Chinese databases Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies with Qigong intervention and brain imaging outcomes from inception to March 2023. The quality of included studies was evaluated according to the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>A total of 18 studies from 9 RCTs were included in this review. The results indicated that Qigong induced various structural and functional changes in multiple brain regions, including the frontal lobe, hippocampus and temporal gyrus, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), insula, putamen, and caudate, among others. Within the brain changes, the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were consistently reported across healthy and CI populations and were found to be associated with various cognitive functions.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>Qigong exercise leads to diverse brain changes, with the alterations in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex likely contributing to its cognitive benefits. These findings provide support for the effectiveness of Qigong as a cognitive intervention.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"3 ","pages":"Article 100016"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49708186","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100019
Christina M. Alford , Amy E. Wahlquist , Katherine R. Sterba , Graham W. Warren , Sundaravadivel Balasubramanian
Background
Complementary and integrative health approaches with a focus on relieving side effects of cancer treatment are popular among cancer patients. Previous studies have investigated the combined effects of yoga postures, breathing, and meditation, but the specific effects of the breathing component are under-reported. Our previous studies indicate that yogic breathing can improve salivary biomarker expression related to stress, immune response, and tumor suppression. We aim to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a yogic breathing program in cancer patients and caregivers during the treatment period.
Methods
In this quality improvement study, we designed a 20-minute yogic breathing regimen and introduced them to all-site cancer patients and their caregivers during the cancer treatment period at a lodging facility, Hope Lodge in Charleston, SC. All interested participants were included as there were no eligibility criteria set for the study. The availability of the class was advertised via intercom, displays, and word of mouth. Participants were taught five different breathing exercises, and after completion of the exercises in a single session, a self-reported quality improvement questionnaire was administered assessing sociodemographic/clinical factors, expectations about the session, and ratings of satisfaction with the session.
Results
During the nine months of the data collection period, 52 participants provided feedback of which patients and caregivers were almost equal numbers. Participants’ perception of intervention acceptance, symptom management, satisfaction with the sessions, and future needs for practice indicate that the yogic breathing sessions help improve some of the key symptoms of cancer experience such as stress.
Conclusion
Findings indicate that yogic breathing is acceptable to patients and caregivers and may help alleviate some of the side effects resulting from cancer treatment, and the intervention is feasible at lodging facilities during treatment. Currently, the yogic breathing sessions are conducted on a weekly basis by Hope Lodge volunteers trained by the study team.
{"title":"A quality improvement study on the feasibility and potential benefits of a yogic breathing program for cancer survivors and caregivers during treatment in a lodging facility","authors":"Christina M. Alford , Amy E. Wahlquist , Katherine R. Sterba , Graham W. Warren , Sundaravadivel Balasubramanian","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100019","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Complementary and integrative health approaches with a focus on relieving side effects of cancer treatment are popular among cancer patients. Previous studies have investigated the combined effects of yoga postures, breathing, and meditation, but the specific effects of the breathing component are under-reported. Our previous studies indicate that yogic breathing can improve salivary biomarker expression related to stress, immune response, and tumor suppression. We aim to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a yogic breathing program in cancer patients and caregivers during the treatment period.</p></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><p>In this quality improvement study, we designed a 20-minute yogic breathing regimen and introduced them to all-site cancer patients and their caregivers during the cancer treatment period at a lodging facility, Hope Lodge in Charleston, SC. All interested participants were included as there were no eligibility criteria set for the study. The availability of the class was advertised via intercom, displays, and word of mouth. Participants were taught five different breathing exercises, and after completion of the exercises in a single session, a self-reported quality improvement questionnaire was administered assessing sociodemographic/clinical factors, expectations about the session, and ratings of satisfaction with the session.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>During the nine months of the data collection period, 52 participants provided feedback of which patients and caregivers were almost equal numbers. Participants’ perception of intervention acceptance, symptom management, satisfaction with the sessions, and future needs for practice indicate that the yogic breathing sessions help improve some of the key symptoms of cancer experience such as stress.</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Findings indicate that yogic breathing is acceptable to patients and caregivers and may help alleviate some of the side effects resulting from cancer treatment, and the intervention is feasible at lodging facilities during treatment. Currently, the yogic breathing sessions are conducted on a weekly basis by Hope Lodge volunteers trained by the study team.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"3 ","pages":"Article 100019"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49756956","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100018
Mário Gonçalves , Renato Oliveira , Jorge Magalhães Rodrigues , Cristina Ventura , Jorge Machado , Henry Johannes Greten
The development of mental health care has changed greatly from ancient civilisations to the present day. Today, teachers' mental health and well-being are in a precarious state, and when lack of training is added, it becomes clear how difficult it is for teachers to provide adequate support to students. This can be exacerbated by specific contexts and cultures in which teachers may feel uncomfortable seeking help. The lack of support for teachers can lead to the development of long-term mental health problems, with negative personal, professional, and social consequences. Because teacher well-being directly impacts student well-being, achievement, and success, it is crucial to promote teachers' mental health. Qigong may be considered a patient-guided psychophysiological feedback technique that enables subjects to learn and control bodily functions and processes. The present study aimed to investigate the potential impact of Qigong on teachers' anxiety, depression, and stress levels, and to explore the feasibility of integrating it into the school context. Eighty-four participants were recruited and randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group received the Qigong intervention and the control group received a placebo intervention, both for 4 weeks. The outcomes were anxiety, depression and stress levels and were assessed using various scales and complementary physiological parameters. Regarding anxiety, the experimental group showed significant improvements in all outcome measures, while the placebo group showed similar scores in the pre- and post-measurements. The post-intervention results even showed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of state anxiety. In terms of depression and stress, the results suggest that Qigong can significantly improve symptoms. The placebo group showed no significant changes. However, no significant differences were found between the groups in the final assessment. The results of this study suggest that Qigong can help improve teachers' mental health and can be implemented in schools.
{"title":"Qigong for the mental health of teachers – A prospective randomized controlled trial","authors":"Mário Gonçalves , Renato Oliveira , Jorge Magalhães Rodrigues , Cristina Ventura , Jorge Machado , Henry Johannes Greten","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100018","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100018","url":null,"abstract":"<div><p>The development of mental health care has changed greatly from ancient civilisations to the present day. Today, teachers' mental health and well-being are in a precarious state, and when lack of training is added, it becomes clear how difficult it is for teachers to provide adequate support to students. This can be exacerbated by specific contexts and cultures in which teachers may feel uncomfortable seeking help. The lack of support for teachers can lead to the development of long-term mental health problems, with negative personal, professional, and social consequences. Because teacher well-being directly impacts student well-being, achievement, and success, it is crucial to promote teachers' mental health. Qigong may be considered a patient-guided psychophysiological feedback technique that enables subjects to learn and control bodily functions and processes. The present study aimed to investigate the potential impact of Qigong on teachers' anxiety, depression, and stress levels, and to explore the feasibility of integrating it into the school context. Eighty-four participants were recruited and randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group received the Qigong intervention and the control group received a placebo intervention, both for 4 weeks. The outcomes were anxiety, depression and stress levels and were assessed using various scales and complementary physiological parameters. Regarding anxiety, the experimental group showed significant improvements in all outcome measures, while the placebo group showed similar scores in the pre- and post-measurements. The post-intervention results even showed a significant difference between the two groups in terms of state anxiety. In terms of depression and stress, the results suggest that Qigong can significantly improve symptoms. The placebo group showed no significant changes. However, no significant differences were found between the groups in the final assessment. The results of this study suggest that Qigong can help improve teachers' mental health and can be implemented in schools.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"3 ","pages":"Article 100018"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49707993","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder associated with the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra followed by dopamine depletion in the striatum. PD usually affects people over 50; when those under 50 are involved, it is generally referred to as early-onset PD. The present study aimed to understand and explain the role of the typical Indian spice, greater cardamom, against parkinsonism and related complications. The methanolic extract of Amomum subulatum has flavonoids as the major phytoconstituent and may be a beneficial adjuvant in treating PD. Amomum subulatum fruit extract (ASFE) was given as treatment to the rats at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors, muscular rigidity, catalepsy, locomotor activity, and grip strength, were examined by several behavioural tests. Treatment with ASFE showed a significant decrease in all the symptoms of PD. Enzyme assays revealed a reduction in the levels of antioxidant enzymes SOD, Catalase, and GSH after administering reserpine and increased levels after treating ASFE. ASFE causes dopaminergic neuron regeneration after reserpine induces injury, thus increasing dopamine levels and restoring cellular damage. The inflammatory biomarkers revealed decreased proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. In contrast, increase in the level of IL-10, which is an anti-inflammatory cytokine. The histopath studies showed reduced cell damage occurring in PD after the treatment with ASFE. The present investigation highlights the role of greater cardamom from the Indian kitchen to ethnopharmacology in progressive neurological degeneration.
{"title":"Antiparkinsonian effects of Indian spice Amomum subulatum fruit extract by modulating the behavioural, inflammatory markers, antioxidant, and histopathology parameters in rats","authors":"Alisha Gazmer, Manodeep Chakraborty, Devid Chutia, Ananya Bhattacharjee, Nihar Ranjan Bhuyan","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100015","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100015","url":null,"abstract":"<div><p>Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder associated with the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra followed by dopamine depletion in the striatum. PD usually affects people over 50; when those under 50 are involved, it is generally referred to as early-onset PD. The present study aimed to understand and explain the role of the typical Indian spice, greater cardamom, against parkinsonism and related complications. The methanolic extract of <em>Amomum subulatum</em> has flavonoids as the major phytoconstituent and may be a beneficial adjuvant in treating PD. <em>Amomum subulatum</em> fruit extract (ASFE) was given as treatment to the rats at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors, muscular rigidity, catalepsy, locomotor activity, and grip strength, were examined by several behavioural tests. Treatment with ASFE showed a significant decrease in all the symptoms of PD. Enzyme assays revealed a reduction in the levels of antioxidant enzymes SOD, Catalase, and GSH after administering reserpine and increased levels after treating ASFE. ASFE causes dopaminergic neuron regeneration after reserpine induces injury, thus increasing dopamine levels and restoring cellular damage. The inflammatory biomarkers revealed decreased proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. In contrast, increase in the level of IL-10, which is an anti-inflammatory cytokine. The histopath studies showed reduced cell damage occurring in PD after the treatment with ASFE. The present investigation highlights the role of greater cardamom from the Indian kitchen to ethnopharmacology in progressive neurological degeneration.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"3 ","pages":"Article 100015"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49761172","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100017
Masoomeh Dadkhah , Maryam Saadat , Amir Mohammad Ghorbanpour , Nasrollah Moradikor
Understanding how physical exercise (PE) can influence brain function, especially cognition, through the modulatory effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been extensively studied over the past few decades. Several studies have reported a relationship between PE and brain function in animals and humans. Recently, evidence has shown that exercise positively affects brain structure and brain functions such as learning and memory. Furthermore, the beneficial effect of voluntary physical activity on cognitive performance through modulating neurotrophic factors has been reported. This review aims to shed light on our current knowledge of how PE affects brain structure and the molecular events in brain areas associated with functions such as learning and memory processes. We provide evidence that exercise can improve common therapies against cognitive deficits through developing BDNF level in brain. We also highlight the critical role of exercise as a modulator of the relationship between cognition and BDNF alternations in neuropsychiatric disorders, based on animal and human research. Finally, the effects of physical activity on BDNF based on experimental and clinical studies will be addressed.
{"title":"Experimental and clinical evidence of physical exercise on BDNF and cognitive function: A comprehensive review from molecular basis to therapy","authors":"Masoomeh Dadkhah , Maryam Saadat , Amir Mohammad Ghorbanpour , Nasrollah Moradikor","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100017","url":null,"abstract":"<div><p>Understanding how physical exercise (PE) can influence brain function, especially cognition, through the modulatory effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been extensively studied over the past few decades. Several studies have reported a relationship between PE and brain function in animals and humans. Recently, evidence has shown that exercise positively affects brain structure and brain functions such as learning and memory. Furthermore, the beneficial effect of voluntary physical activity on cognitive performance through modulating neurotrophic factors has been reported. This review aims to shed light on our current knowledge of how PE affects brain structure and the molecular events in brain areas associated with functions such as learning and memory processes. We provide evidence that exercise can improve common therapies against cognitive deficits through developing BDNF level in brain. We also highlight the critical role of exercise as a modulator of the relationship between cognition and BDNF alternations in neuropsychiatric disorders, based on animal and human research. Finally, the effects of physical activity on BDNF based on experimental and clinical studies will be addressed.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"3 ","pages":"Article 100017"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49761173","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Palmoplantar psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that contributes to significant functional disability. Apart from the chronic inflammatory reactions in the skin, psoriasis patients are more likely to develop chronic systemic disorders, which impose significant physical, mental, and economic burdens. This warrants a holistic, patient-centered approach that can address the prevailing multimorbidity in psoriasis patients. Yoga and Naturopathy-based Lifestyle Interventions (YNBL) are known for their whole-person approach and are reported to be beneficial in the management of autoimmune disorders. We report a case of a 63-year-old male treated with YNBL for palmoplantar psoriasis along with diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, low back pain, and insomnia. The patient underwent YNBL in an inpatient setting for 10 days each with a gap of 7 months, along with follow-up advises. The prognosis was measured through the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, along with other biochemical markers like fasting blood sugar, random blood sugar, vitamins D and B12, and subjective visual analog scores for vitality and other symptoms. He achieved complete remission of psoriasis by the end of 8 months, and the results were sustained even during the follow-up. The results are encouraging for using the YNBL protocol in the management of palmoplantar psoriasis; however, these findings need to be validated using clinical trial designs.
{"title":"Management of palmoplantar psoriasis and its comorbidities using yoga and naturopathic lifestyle interventions: A case report","authors":"Gulab Rai Tewani , Sucheta Kriplani , Hemanshu Sharma , Pradeep MK Nair","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100011","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100011","url":null,"abstract":"<div><p>Palmoplantar psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that contributes to significant functional disability. Apart from the chronic inflammatory reactions in the skin, psoriasis patients are more likely to develop chronic systemic disorders, which impose significant physical, mental, and economic burdens. This warrants a holistic, patient-centered approach that can address the prevailing multimorbidity in psoriasis patients. Yoga and Naturopathy-based Lifestyle Interventions (YNBL) are known for their whole-person approach and are reported to be beneficial in the management of autoimmune disorders. We report a case of a 63-year-old male treated with YNBL for palmoplantar psoriasis along with diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, low back pain, and insomnia. The patient underwent YNBL in an inpatient setting for 10 days each with a gap of 7 months, along with follow-up advises. The prognosis was measured through the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, along with other biochemical markers like fasting blood sugar, random blood sugar, vitamins D and B12, and subjective visual analog scores for vitality and other symptoms. He achieved complete remission of psoriasis by the end of 8 months, and the results were sustained even during the follow-up. The results are encouraging for using the YNBL protocol in the management of palmoplantar psoriasis; however, these findings need to be validated using clinical trial designs.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"2 ","pages":"Article 100011"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49708224","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-01DOI: 10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100012
Muzafar Din Ahmad Bhat, Husain Ahmad
Background
Post-stroke Depression (PSD) is a frequent neuropsychiatric manifestation of high clinical importance as it adversely affects recovery and quality of life, interferes with rehabilitation, and is a significant source of burden to caregivers. Prevalence rates of PSD range from 25% to 79%. The reason for treatment failure in patients of PSD includes the timing of intervention or the side effects of medications. Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC is commonly used in traditional medicine systems for neuropsychiatric and psychosomatic disorders with the least or no side effects. However, its clinical efficacy in PSD remains unraveled. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Nardostachys jatamansi in PSD.
Methods
Present study was a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial with 20 patients in each test and control group. Participants were randomly allocated to receive Nardostachys jatamansi 3gms (powder) in the test group or placebo in the control group for six weeks. Participants were asked to follow up fortnightly for the assessment of subjective parameters. Objective parameters (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS17) score and 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) were assessed at baseline and end of the trial.
Results
After 6 weeks of treatment, there was a statistically significant reduction in HDRS17 score and SF-36 (p < 0.001), whereas there was no significant difference in the control group (P = 0.108, and 0.29 respectively). Comparison between baseline and post-treatment scores in the test group showed a positive reduction in all subjective parameters however, in the control group there was no statistically significant change. The intergroup analysis revealed that the reduction in HDRS17 score and improvement in SF-36 score was statistically significant in the test group than the control group (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The study revealed that the test drug is effective in the management of PSD. There was no adverse effect observed during the trial.
{"title":"Efficacy of Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC in post stroke depression: A randomized, double blind, controlled trial","authors":"Muzafar Din Ahmad Bhat, Husain Ahmad","doi":"10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbii.2023.100012","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Post-stroke Depression (PSD) is a frequent neuropsychiatric manifestation of high clinical importance as it adversely affects recovery and quality of life, interferes with rehabilitation, and is a significant source of burden to caregivers. Prevalence rates of PSD range from 25% to 79%. The reason for treatment failure in patients of PSD includes the timing of intervention or the side effects of medications. <em>Nardostachys jatamansi</em> (D.Don) DC is commonly used in traditional medicine systems for neuropsychiatric and psychosomatic disorders with the least or no side effects. However, its clinical efficacy in PSD remains unraveled. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of <em>Nardostachys jatamansi</em> in PSD.</p></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><p>Present study was a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial with 20 patients in each test and control group. Participants were randomly allocated to receive <em>Nardostachys jatamansi</em> 3gms (powder) in the test group or placebo in the control group for six weeks. Participants were asked to follow up fortnightly for the assessment of subjective parameters. Objective parameters (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS<sub>17</sub>) score and 36-Item Short Form Survey <strong>(</strong>SF-36) were assessed at baseline and end of the trial.</p></div><div><h3>Results</h3><p>After 6 weeks of treatment, there was a statistically significant reduction in HDRS<sub>17</sub> score and SF-36 (p < 0.001), whereas there was no significant difference in the control group (P = 0.108, and 0.29 respectively). Comparison between baseline and post-treatment scores in the test group showed a positive reduction in all subjective parameters however, in the control group there was no statistically significant change. The intergroup analysis revealed that the reduction in HDRS<sub>17</sub> score and improvement in SF-36 score was statistically significant in the test group than the control group (P < 0.001).</p></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The study revealed that the test drug is effective in the management of PSD. There was no adverse effect observed during the trial.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":100197,"journal":{"name":"Brain Behavior and Immunity Integrative","volume":"2 ","pages":"Article 100012"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49757687","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}