Pub Date : 2025-09-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103250
Lei Chen , Kaiyin Wang , Wenrui Huang , XueLian Du
<div><h3>Background</h3><div>This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of different acupuncture-related interventions for perimenopausal depression and anxiety using a frequentist network meta-analysis, in order to identify the most effective treatment strategies.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>We systematically searched Chinese and international databases for randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for perimenopausal depression and anxiety. Studies were screened and selected based on predefined PICOS criteria. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, risk-of-bias assessment, and evaluation of evidence certainty using the CINeMA tool. A frequentist network meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 17.0. Mean differences were used for continuous outcomes and risk ratios for binary outcomes. Heterogeneity and consistency were assessed, and Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values were calculated to rank the comparative effectiveness of different acupuncture interventions.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>A total of 54 randomized controlled trials were included, involving 4406 participants. The included studies were predominantly of moderate quality, with few at low or high risk of bias. According to the CINeMA assessment, the certainty of evidence for most pairwise comparisons was rated as low to moderate. Acupuncture-related interventions showed superior efficacy to Western medicine in improving clinical response rates, depressive and anxiety symptoms, menopausal complaints, and hormone levels. For clinical response, the most effective interventions were manual acupuncture (MA) + Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) (RR = 1.52, 95 % CI: 1.12–2.08) and electroacupuncture (EA) + CHM (RR = 1.49, 95 % CI: 1.05–2.12). Regarding depressive symptoms measured by the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), EA + Western medicine (WM) (MD = –5.04, 95 % CI: –6.97 to –3.12) and MA + CHM (MD = –5.69, 95 % CI: –10.47 to –0.92) achieved the greatest reductions. For anxiety symptoms assessed by the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), EA alone significantly reduced scores (MD = –8.40, 95 % CI: –14.31 to –2.49). On the Kupperman Index, MA + WM (MD = –5.37) and MA + CHM (MD = –5.00) were most effective. EA + WM also produced the largest improvement in Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores (MD = –9.10). Hormonally, MA + WM significantly increased estradiol (E2) levels (MD = 26.25), while both EA + WM and MA + CHM lowered follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. SUCRA analysis indicated that EA + WM and MA + CHM consistently ranked among the top treatments across most outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>EA + WM and MA + CHM may be among the most effective acupuncture-based interventions for perimenopausal depression and anxiety. However, given the moderate quality of evidence, further high-quality trials are needed to confirm these findi
{"title":"Comparative efficacy of acupuncture-related interventions for perimenopausal depression and anxiety: A systematic review and frequentist meta-analysis","authors":"Lei Chen , Kaiyin Wang , Wenrui Huang , XueLian Du","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103250","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103250","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of different acupuncture-related interventions for perimenopausal depression and anxiety using a frequentist network meta-analysis, in order to identify the most effective treatment strategies.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>We systematically searched Chinese and international databases for randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for perimenopausal depression and anxiety. Studies were screened and selected based on predefined PICOS criteria. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, risk-of-bias assessment, and evaluation of evidence certainty using the CINeMA tool. A frequentist network meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 17.0. Mean differences were used for continuous outcomes and risk ratios for binary outcomes. Heterogeneity and consistency were assessed, and Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values were calculated to rank the comparative effectiveness of different acupuncture interventions.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>A total of 54 randomized controlled trials were included, involving 4406 participants. The included studies were predominantly of moderate quality, with few at low or high risk of bias. According to the CINeMA assessment, the certainty of evidence for most pairwise comparisons was rated as low to moderate. Acupuncture-related interventions showed superior efficacy to Western medicine in improving clinical response rates, depressive and anxiety symptoms, menopausal complaints, and hormone levels. For clinical response, the most effective interventions were manual acupuncture (MA) + Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) (RR = 1.52, 95 % CI: 1.12–2.08) and electroacupuncture (EA) + CHM (RR = 1.49, 95 % CI: 1.05–2.12). Regarding depressive symptoms measured by the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), EA + Western medicine (WM) (MD = –5.04, 95 % CI: –6.97 to –3.12) and MA + CHM (MD = –5.69, 95 % CI: –10.47 to –0.92) achieved the greatest reductions. For anxiety symptoms assessed by the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), EA alone significantly reduced scores (MD = –8.40, 95 % CI: –14.31 to –2.49). On the Kupperman Index, MA + WM (MD = –5.37) and MA + CHM (MD = –5.00) were most effective. EA + WM also produced the largest improvement in Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores (MD = –9.10). Hormonally, MA + WM significantly increased estradiol (E2) levels (MD = 26.25), while both EA + WM and MA + CHM lowered follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. SUCRA analysis indicated that EA + WM and MA + CHM consistently ranked among the top treatments across most outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>EA + WM and MA + CHM may be among the most effective acupuncture-based interventions for perimenopausal depression and anxiety. However, given the moderate quality of evidence, further high-quality trials are needed to confirm these findi","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103250"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145136795","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103251
Bugse Yuceer , Fatma Ilknur Cinar
Background and purpose
Type II Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a multifaceted, chronic metabolic condition requiring persistent adherence to treatment for effective management. Previous research has largely emphasized medical and behavioral determinants of adherence, while psychological and spiritual factors remain underexplored. Addressing this gap, the present study examines multidimensional factors associated with treatment adherence among individuals with Type II DM, within the framework of the Multidimensional Adherence Model (MAM), with a particular focus on the roles of mindfulness and spiritual well-being.
Materials and methods
A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 125 patients with Type II DM. Data were collected based on five dimensions within the MAM framework. The study utilized validated instruments, including the Patient Information Form, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Spiritual Well-Being Scale, Treatment Adherence in Type II DM Scale. The data were analysed using descriptive and correlational statistics and structural equation modelling. In this hypothesized model, the independent variable was mindfulness, the mediator was spiritual well-being, and the dependent variable was treatment adherence.
Results
Treatment adherence was significantly related to patient-related, socio-economic, healthcare system, and condition-related factors. Higher levels of mindfulness and spiritual well-being were positively associated with improved adherence behaviors. Notably, spiritual well-being demonstrated statistically significant indirect association in the link between mindfulness and treatment adherence.
Conclusion
This study highlights the need for a patient-centered approach to Type II DM care, integrating psychological and spiritual dimensions alongside medical management. Mindfulness and spiritual well-being emerged as key correlates of adherence, emphasizing the importance of holistic care in diabetes treatment.
{"title":"Multidimensional factors associated with treatment adherence in Type II diabetes: The roles of spiritual well-being and mindfulness","authors":"Bugse Yuceer , Fatma Ilknur Cinar","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103251","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103251","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background and purpose</h3><div>Type II Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a multifaceted, chronic metabolic condition requiring persistent adherence to treatment for effective management. Previous research has largely emphasized medical and behavioral determinants of adherence, while psychological and spiritual factors remain underexplored. Addressing this gap, the present study examines multidimensional factors associated with treatment adherence among individuals with Type II DM, within the framework of the Multidimensional Adherence Model (MAM), with a particular focus on the roles of mindfulness and spiritual well-being.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 125 patients with Type II DM. Data were collected based on five dimensions within the MAM framework. The study utilized validated instruments, including the Patient Information Form, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Spiritual Well-Being Scale, Treatment Adherence in Type II DM Scale. The data were analysed using descriptive and correlational statistics and structural equation modelling. In this hypothesized model, the independent variable was mindfulness, the mediator was spiritual well-being, and the dependent variable was treatment adherence.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Treatment adherence was significantly related to patient-related, socio-economic, healthcare system, and condition-related factors. Higher levels of mindfulness and spiritual well-being were positively associated with improved adherence behaviors. Notably, spiritual well-being demonstrated statistically significant indirect association in the link between mindfulness and treatment adherence.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study highlights the need for a patient-centered approach to Type II DM care, integrating psychological and spiritual dimensions alongside medical management. Mindfulness and spiritual well-being emerged as key correlates of adherence, emphasizing the importance of holistic care in diabetes treatment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103251"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145136724","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Letter to Editor: Effects of intermittent fasting diet in overweight and obese postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled clinical trial","authors":"Mahsa Ranjbar, Sakineh Shab-Bidar, Abdolrahman Rostamian, Hamed Mohammadi, Aryan Tavakoli, Kurosh Djafarian","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103249","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103249","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103249"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145136748","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-21DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103248
Zhe-Kai Ying, Tian-Chen Lin, Jian-Nong Wu
{"title":"Letter to the editor regarding “Effects of intermittent fasting diet in overweight and obese postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled clinical trial” by Ranjbar et al.","authors":"Zhe-Kai Ying, Tian-Chen Lin, Jian-Nong Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103248","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103248","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103248"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145106554","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-21DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103247
Cui Ye , Xuan Huang , Ziyu Wang , Shufang Zuo , Lu Lin
Objectives
To evaluate the effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients, taking into account factors such as participant age, type of essential oil, dosage, treatment duration, and daily frequency of use.
Methods
A systematic search and screening of literature on the effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients, published as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Chinese and English from inception to 8 August, 2025, was conducted across eight databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, CBM, VIP, and Wanfang. The methodological quality of the included studies was independently and critically assessed by two reviewers using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for RCTs. Relevant data were extracted using pre-designed forms and analyzed with STATA 17.0.
Results
A total of nine studies comprising 13 trials with 740 hospitalized cardiac patients were included. The results indicated that aromatherapy with single essential oils was moderately effective in improving sleep quality in these patients [SMD = -0.74, 95 % CI (-1.06, − 0.42), p = 0.003]. Subgroup analyses revealed significant improvements when patients were aged ≥ 60 years [SMD = -1.08, 95 %CI (-1.91,-0.24), P = 0.012], when Rosa damascena essential oil was used [SMD = -1.43, 95 %CI (-2.73,-0.13), P = 0.031], when the dosage was > 3 drops [SMD = -1.10, 95 %CI (-1.87,-0.32), P = 0.005], or when the treatment duration was ≥ 3 days [SMD = -0.99, 95 %CI (-1.59,-0.38), P = 0.001]. No adverse events were reported.
Conclusion
This study reveals that single essential oils are effective in improving sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients and can be recommended as a complementary therapy to improve sleep quality in this population.
{"title":"Effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials","authors":"Cui Ye , Xuan Huang , Ziyu Wang , Shufang Zuo , Lu Lin","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103247","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103247","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To evaluate the effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients, taking into account factors such as participant age, type of essential oil, dosage, treatment duration, and daily frequency of use.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic search and screening of literature on the effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients, published as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Chinese and English from inception to 8 August, 2025, was conducted across eight databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, CBM, VIP, and Wanfang. The methodological quality of the included studies was independently and critically assessed by two reviewers using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for RCTs. Relevant data were extracted using pre-designed forms and analyzed with STATA 17.0.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of nine studies comprising 13 trials with 740 hospitalized cardiac patients were included. The results indicated that aromatherapy with single essential oils was moderately effective in improving sleep quality in these patients [SMD = -0.74, 95 % CI (-1.06, − 0.42), <em>p</em> = 0.003]. Subgroup analyses revealed significant improvements when patients were aged ≥ 60 years [SMD = -1.08, 95 %CI (-1.91,-0.24), P = 0.012], when Rosa damascena essential oil was used [SMD = -1.43, 95 %CI (-2.73,-0.13), P = 0.031], when the dosage was > 3 drops [SMD = -1.10, 95 %CI (-1.87,-0.32), P = 0.005], or when the treatment duration was ≥ 3 days [SMD = -0.99, 95 %CI (-1.59,-0.38), P = 0.001]. No adverse events were reported.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study reveals that single essential oils are effective in improving sleep quality in hospitalized cardiac patients and can be recommended as a complementary therapy to improve sleep quality in this population.</div></div><div><h3>Registration</h3><div>PROSPERO: CRD42024535895.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103247"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145130286","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To investigate the effects of mindfulness meditation on blood pressure changes and quality of life in patients with intradialytic hypertension (IDH) during haemodialysis.
Methods
This single-blind, randomised controlled trial involved 69 patients with IDH undergoing maintenance haemodialysis at Lihuili Hospital in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, between August and December 2024. Patients were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 34) receiving mindfulness meditation and a control group (n = 35) receiving standard care. Blood pressure and quality of life were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks.
Results
During haemodialysis, the intervention group exhibited significantly lower systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures, as well as pulse rate, than the control group (p < 0.001). Quality of life, assessed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form 36, improved significantly in the intervention group across multiple dimensions, including physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, bodily pain, general health, energy/fatigue, emotional well-being and sleep (p < 0.05). However, no significant improvement was observed in social function (p > 0.05). Laboratory tests showed a significant reduction in serum homocysteine levels in the intervention group (p < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions was significantly lower in the intervention group (11.76 %) than in the control group (45.71 %, p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Mindfulness meditation can effectively improve IDH in patients undergoing haemodialysis and substantially enhance their quality of life. As a non-pharmacological intervention, mindfulness meditation is safe and easy to implement, offering a new therapeutic option for patients with IDH.
{"title":"Effects of mindfulness meditation on blood pressure and quality of life in patients with intradialytic hypertension during haemodialysis: A randomised controlled trial","authors":"Yongyao Wu , Qiaojing Xia , Yiyi Gao , Chao Zhang , Pengjie Xu , Haojie Zhang , Gao Chao , Rizhen Yu , Jiang Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103245","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103245","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To investigate the effects of mindfulness meditation on blood pressure changes and quality of life in patients with intradialytic hypertension (IDH) during haemodialysis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This single-blind, randomised controlled trial involved 69 patients with IDH undergoing maintenance haemodialysis at Lihuili Hospital in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, between August and December 2024. Patients were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 34) receiving mindfulness meditation and a control group (n = 35) receiving standard care. Blood pressure and quality of life were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>During haemodialysis, the intervention group exhibited significantly lower systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures, as well as pulse rate, than the control group (p < 0.001). Quality of life, assessed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form 36, improved significantly in the intervention group across multiple dimensions, including physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, bodily pain, general health, energy/fatigue, emotional well-being and sleep (p < 0.05). However, no significant improvement was observed in social function (p > 0.05). Laboratory tests showed a significant reduction in serum homocysteine levels in the intervention group (p < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions was significantly lower in the intervention group (11.76 %) than in the control group (45.71 %, p < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Mindfulness meditation can effectively improve IDH in patients undergoing haemodialysis and substantially enhance their quality of life. As a non-pharmacological intervention, mindfulness meditation is safe and easy to implement, offering a new therapeutic option for patients with IDH.</div></div><div><h3>Trial Registration</h3><div>ISRCTN82788940, Registration date: 29/10/2024</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103245"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145085261","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-16DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103243
Boram Lee , Chan-Young Kwon , Yoon Kyoung Jeong , Roberta Sclocco , Braden Kuo , Vitaly Napadow , Jun-Hwan Lee , Hojun Kim
Background
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a potential noninvasive treatment for functional dyspepsia (FD). We aimed to systematically analyze the clinical evidence of taVNS for FD.
Methods
Eight databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using taVNS in patients with FD published by June 27, 2024. The primary outcome was dyspepsia symptoms, whereas the secondary outcomes were the total effective rate (TER), quality of life, anxiety, depression, and incidence of adverse events. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE methodology. Detailed information on the taVNS parameters and the suggested underlying mechanism were also extracted.
Results
Six RCTs with 716 participants were included. Compared to the sham intervention, taVNS significantly improved dyspepsia symptoms, quality of life, and clinician-rated anxiety and depression with moderate certainty of evidence. The TER based on dyspepsia symptoms was also significantly higher with high certainty of evidence. When taVNS was used as an add-on therapy, dyspepsia symptoms were significantly improved with moderate certainty of evidence. No serious adverse events related to taVNS were reported. The stimulation sites for taVNS were concha and tragus, with common pulse frequencies of 25 or 20 Hz twice a day for 2–4 weeks. Gastric accommodation, electrogastrogram, heart rate variability, and functional magnetic resonance imaging were measured to explore the mechanism of taVNS.
Conclusions
Considering the certainty of the evidence, taVNS can improve dyspepsia symptoms, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in patients with FD without serious adverse events. Additional high-quality studies are needed to establish optimal treatment protocols.
{"title":"Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation for functional dyspepsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Boram Lee , Chan-Young Kwon , Yoon Kyoung Jeong , Roberta Sclocco , Braden Kuo , Vitaly Napadow , Jun-Hwan Lee , Hojun Kim","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103243","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103243","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a potential noninvasive treatment for functional dyspepsia (FD). We aimed to systematically analyze the clinical evidence of taVNS for FD.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Eight databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using taVNS in patients with FD published by June 27, 2024. The primary outcome was dyspepsia symptoms, whereas the secondary outcomes were the total effective rate (TER), quality of life, anxiety, depression, and incidence of adverse events. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE methodology. Detailed information on the taVNS parameters and the suggested underlying mechanism were also extracted.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Six RCTs with 716 participants were included. Compared to the sham intervention, taVNS significantly improved dyspepsia symptoms, quality of life, and clinician-rated anxiety and depression with moderate certainty of evidence. The TER based on dyspepsia symptoms was also significantly higher with high certainty of evidence. When taVNS was used as an add-on therapy, dyspepsia symptoms were significantly improved with moderate certainty of evidence. No serious adverse events related to taVNS were reported. The stimulation sites for taVNS were concha and tragus, with common pulse frequencies of 25 or 20 Hz twice a day for 2–4 weeks. Gastric accommodation, electrogastrogram, heart rate variability, and functional magnetic resonance imaging were measured to explore the mechanism of taVNS.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Considering the certainty of the evidence, taVNS can improve dyspepsia symptoms, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in patients with FD without serious adverse events. Additional high-quality studies are needed to establish optimal treatment protocols.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103243"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145085220","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-16DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103246
Ann Linda Baldwin , Vicky McLelland , Duncan Cross , Nicole Braveman
Objective
Meditation and spirituality can enhance the well-being of allopathic healthcare providers and the quality of care they deliver but little is known about holistic healers, such as Reiki practitioners. Two surveys were developed to ascertain whether Reiki practitioners routinely use meditative and spiritual disciplines to strengthen their practice.
Method
The surveys were promoted through email using Mailchimp and Facebook to all members of UK Reiki Federation (about 1800) and through several other Facebook groups with a global reach. An online survey tool, SurveyMonkey, was used to collect the survey data and MS Excel to analyze it.
Results
Most respondents were white, heterosexual females, middle aged or older, residing in the UK or USA, trained to Reiki Master level. Over one third were Christian and another third affiliated with various non-established beliefs. Most participants experienced a spiritual connection when they practiced Reiki, which opened them to a higher power, and they thought this connection enhanced their self-development. Seventy-nine percent believed that Reiki spirit guides provide personal guidance, support, and assistance. Ninety-five percent meditated weekly from one to seven times a week and most believed that meditation increased their connection and ability to channel, Reiki.
Conclusion
Most respondents to the surveys routinely use meditation and spiritual connection to strengthen their Reiki practice and enhance their ability to channel Reiki to patients or clients. This information may stimulate inclusion of meditation and spirituality in the training of holistic healthcare professionals and help them communicate more effectively with their clients.
{"title":"How important are meditation and spirituality in Reiki practice?","authors":"Ann Linda Baldwin , Vicky McLelland , Duncan Cross , Nicole Braveman","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103246","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103246","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Meditation and spirituality can enhance the well-being of allopathic healthcare providers and the quality of care they deliver but little is known about holistic healers, such as Reiki practitioners. Two surveys were developed to ascertain whether Reiki practitioners routinely use meditative and spiritual disciplines to strengthen their practice.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>The surveys were promoted through email using Mailchimp and Facebook to all members of UK Reiki Federation (about 1800) and through several other Facebook groups with a global reach. An online survey tool, SurveyMonkey, was used to collect the survey data and MS Excel to analyze it.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Most respondents were white, heterosexual females, middle aged or older, residing in the UK or USA, trained to Reiki Master level. Over one third were Christian and another third affiliated with various non-established beliefs. Most participants experienced a spiritual connection when they practiced Reiki, which opened them to a higher power, and they thought this connection enhanced their self-development. Seventy-nine percent believed that Reiki spirit guides provide personal guidance, support, and assistance. Ninety-five percent meditated weekly from one to seven times a week and most believed that meditation increased their connection and ability to channel, Reiki.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Most respondents to the surveys routinely use meditation and spiritual connection to strengthen their Reiki practice and enhance their ability to channel Reiki to patients or clients. This information may stimulate inclusion of meditation and spirituality in the training of holistic healthcare professionals and help them communicate more effectively with their clients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103246"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145085222","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-16DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103244
Heon Heo , DooChul Shin
Background
Upper chest breathing patterns can increase accessory muscle activation and reduce cervical stability, contributing to neck pain
Objective
To examine the effects of a respiratory exercise program on pain, cervical range of motion, disability, breathing patterns, and muscular endurance in patients with non-specific neck pain.
Design
randomized controlled trial
Methods
Thirty-two patients with non-specific neck pain and upper chest breathing patterns were included. The study was conducted from July 19, 2021, to September 3, at a physical therapy center. Participants were randomly assigned to a breathing exercise (BE) or neck exercise (NE) group. Thermoelectric therapy, soft tissue relaxation, and thoracic spine mobilization were performed in both groups. The BE group performed breathing exercises, whereas the NE group performed general neck exercises. Pain intensity, neck disability index, cervical range of motion, breathing pattern, and deep cervical flexor endurance were measured before and after the intervention. Paired t-test and independent t-test compared pre- and post-test differences within and between groups.
Results
Both groups showed significant improvements in pain intensity and NDI (pain: BE vs NE mean difference 0.34, 95 % CI –0.25–0.93, p = .239; NDI: 0.86, 95 % CI –0.62–2.34, p = .249). Breathing pattern improved only in the BE group (mean difference 2.73, 95 % CI 1.78–3.68, p < .001). Endurance of deep cervical flexors increased in both groups, greater in NE (mean difference –15.98, 95 % CI –25.26 to –6.70, p = .010).
Conclusion
Breathing exercises improved breathing patterns in patients with non-specific neck pain, but effects on pain and disability were inconclusive.
背景：上胸部呼吸模式可增加副肌激活，降低颈椎稳定性，导致颈部疼痛。目的：研究呼吸锻炼方案对非特异性颈部疼痛患者疼痛、颈椎活动度、残疾、呼吸模式和肌肉耐力的影响。设计：随机对照试验方法：纳入32例非特异性颈部疼痛和上胸呼吸方式的患者。该研究于2021年7月19日至9月3日在物理治疗中心进行。参与者被随机分配到呼吸运动（BE）组或颈部运动（NE）组。两组均行热电治疗、软组织松弛、胸椎活动。BE组进行呼吸练习，而NE组进行一般的颈部练习。测量干预前后疼痛强度、颈部残疾指数、颈椎活动度、呼吸方式、颈深屈肌耐力。配对t检验和独立t检验比较组内和组间检验前后的差异。结果：两组疼痛强度和NDI均有显著改善（疼痛：BE vs NE平均差异0.34,95% CI -0.25 ~ 0.93, p= 0.239; NDI: 0.86, 95% CI -0.62 ~ 2.34, p= 0.249）。呼吸模式仅在BE组得到改善（平均差异2.73,95% CI 1.78至3.68）。结论：呼吸练习改善了非特异性颈部疼痛患者的呼吸模式，但对疼痛和残疾的影响尚无定论。
{"title":"The impact of a breathing exercise program on pain, disability, and breathing patterns in patients with non-specific neck pain: A randomized controlled trial","authors":"Heon Heo , DooChul Shin","doi":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103244","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103244","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Upper chest breathing patterns can increase accessory muscle activation and reduce cervical stability, contributing to neck pain</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To examine the effects of a respiratory exercise program on pain, cervical range of motion, disability, breathing patterns, and muscular endurance in patients with non-specific neck pain.</div></div><div><h3>Design</h3><div>randomized controlled trial</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Thirty-two patients with non-specific neck pain and upper chest breathing patterns were included. The study was conducted from July 19, 2021, to September 3, at a physical therapy center. Participants were randomly assigned to a breathing exercise (BE) or neck exercise (NE) group. Thermoelectric therapy, soft tissue relaxation, and thoracic spine mobilization were performed in both groups. The BE group performed breathing exercises, whereas the NE group performed general neck exercises. Pain intensity, neck disability index, cervical range of motion, breathing pattern, and deep cervical flexor endurance were measured before and after the intervention. Paired t-test and independent t-test compared pre- and post-test differences within and between groups.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Both groups showed significant improvements in pain intensity and NDI (pain: BE vs NE mean difference 0.34, 95 % CI –0.25–0.93, p = .239; NDI: 0.86, 95 % CI –0.62–2.34, p = .249). Breathing pattern improved only in the BE group (mean difference 2.73, 95 % CI 1.78–3.68, p < .001). Endurance of deep cervical flexors increased in both groups, greater in NE (mean difference –15.98, 95 % CI –25.26 to –6.70, p = .010).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Breathing exercises improved breathing patterns in patients with non-specific neck pain, but effects on pain and disability were inconclusive.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":10545,"journal":{"name":"Complementary therapies in medicine","volume":"94 ","pages":"Article 103244"},"PeriodicalIF":3.5,"publicationDate":"2025-09-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145085225","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-13DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2025.103242
Hamidreza Shiri , Ali Akbar Soleimani , Behnam Omidi Sarajar , Abdolkarim Talebi Taheri , Fataneh Esmaeili , Mohammad Hadi Nematollahi , Mahmood Alizadeh Sani
Introduction
CVDs are considered the major public health concern and mortality in the world. Common treatments have some side effects and require low-risk treatments, such as herbal medicine. Spirulina is a filamentous microalga that has improved cardiometabolic parameters.
Methods
Systematic searches were conducted in Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and PubMed/Medline databases up to 20 January 2025 to identify RCTs based on the PRISMA checklist and PICOS criteria (People > 18 years, Intervention: spirulina, Comparison: placebo /control, Outcomes: TG, TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, FBG, HbA1c, insulin, HOMA-IR, SBP, DBP, BMI, weight, hs-CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, and Study: RCTs). Meta- analysis was utilized by random-effects models, and the GRADE criteria ensured the certainty of results.
Result
The results of 35 trials (45 effect sizes) show that spirulina intake improved glucose homeostasis (FBG; WMD: −5.51 (mg/dl); P = 0.001, HOMA-IR; WMD: −0.68; P < 0.001, and insulin; WMD: −0.86 (ng/ml); P = 0.002), decreased dyslipidemia (TG; WMD: −14.75 (mg/dl); P < 0.001, TC: WMD: −11.5 (mg/dl); P < 0.001, LDL-C; WMD: −7.69 (mg/dl); P < 0.001, and HDL-C; WMD: 1.9 (mg/dl); P < 0.001), decreased blood pressure (SBP; WMD: −3.85 mmHg, P = 0.002, and DBP; WMD: −3.09 mmHg, P < 0.001), reduced anthropometric indexes (weight; WMD: −1.78 kg; P = 0.003, and BMI; WMD: −0.58 kg/m²; P = 0.001), and decreased inflammation (TNF-α; WMD: −0.46 pg/ml; P = 0.01, IL-6; WMD: −0.58 pg/ml; P < 0.001, and hs-CRP; WMD: −0.86 mg/L; P = 0.002). Based on GRADE analysis, LDL-C, FBG, and HbA1c had of low quality, while the outcome for weight was of high quality. Furthermore, other parameters had moderate-quality outcomes.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that spirulina supplementation effectively reduces the risk of CVD in adults by improving glucose homeostasis, dyslipidemia, blood pressure, anthropometric indexes, and inflammation. So, intake of spirulina is an adjunct or complementary to improve cardiometabolic profiles.
Trial registration
PROSPERO registration cod: (CRD42024626090)
心血管疾病被认为是世界上主要的公共卫生问题和死亡率。普通的治疗方法有一些副作用，需要低风险的治疗，比如草药。螺旋藻是一种丝状微藻，具有改善心脏代谢参数的作用。方法系统检索Scopus、ISI Web of Science和PubMed/Medline数据库，截至2025年1月20日，根据PRISMA检查表和PICOS标准（患者18岁，干预：螺旋藻，比较：安慰剂/对照，结局：TG、TC、LDL-C、HDL-C、FBG、HbA1c、胰岛素、HOMA-IR、收缩压、舒压、BMI、体重、hs-CRP、IL-6、TNF-α和研究：rct）确定rct。随机效应模型采用Meta分析，GRADE标准保证了结果的确定性。结果35项试验（45个效应量）的结果表明，螺旋藻摄入改善了葡萄糖稳态(FBG; WMD: - 5.51 (mg/dl)；0.001 P = HOMA-IR;大规模杀伤性武器:−0.68;P <； 0.001，胰岛素；WMD:−0.86 (ng/ml)；P = 0.002)，降低血脂异常(TG; WMD:−14.75 (mg/dl)；P <； 0.001,TC: WMD: - 11.5 (mg/dl)；P & lt; 0.001,低密度;WMD:−7.69 (mg/dl)；P <； 0.001,HDL-C；WMD: 1.9 (mg/dl)；P & lt; 0.001),降低血压(SBP;大规模杀伤性武器:−3.85 mmHg, P = 0.002,和菲律宾;大规模杀伤性武器:−3.09 mmHg, P & lt; 0.001),降低人体测量指标(体重;大规模杀伤性武器:− 公斤1.78;P = 0.003,体重指数;大规模杀伤性武器:−0.58 公斤/ m²;P = 0.001),并降低炎症(TNF -α;大规模杀伤性武器:−0.46 pg / ml; P = 0.01,il - 6,大规模杀伤性武器:−0.58 pg / ml; P & lt; 0.001,和hs-CRP;大规模杀伤性武器:−0.86 mg / L; P = 0.002)。根据GRADE分析，LDL-C、FBG和HbA1c的结果质量较低，而体重的结果质量较高。此外，其他参数具有中等质量的结果。结论本研究表明，螺旋藻补充可通过改善葡萄糖稳态、血脂异常、血压、人体测量指标和炎症，有效降低成人心血管疾病的风险。因此，螺旋藻的摄入是一种辅助或补充，以改善心脏代谢谱。试用注册普洛斯佩罗注册编号：（CRD42024626090）
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