Pub Date : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103242
Haijiao Lin , Xiangyu Chen , Zhongtian Wang , Liping Sun
Aim
This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture in treating tic disorders.
Methods
We conducted a meta-analysis using data from 19 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1463 patients, sourced from various databases up to May 16, 2023. Stata15.0 was used to assess clinical efficacy rate, YGTSS score, TCM syndrome score, adverse reactions, and long-term efficacy.
Results
Scalp acupuncture significantly reduced YGTSS and TCM syndrome scores and improved clinical efficacy rates compared to controls [YGTSS: RR=-3.54, 95 % CI (-5.16, -1.93), P < 0.05; TCM: RR=-1.86, 95 % CI (-2.60, -1.13), P < 0.05; Efficacy: RR=1.14, 95 % CI (1.06, 1.23), P < 0.05]. Adverse reaction rates were lower in the treatment group (7.29 % vs. 12.61 % in controls), but not statistically significant [OR=0.69, 95 % CI (0.40, 1.18), P > 0.005]. Long-term efficacy was also stable [RR=-1.98, 95 % CI (-3.57, -0.39), P < 0.05].
Conclusion
Scalp acupuncture is effective in improving tic disorder symptoms, increasing treatment efficacy, and maintaining long-term benefits. However, due to the low quality of included RCTs and potential publication bias, further high-quality, large-sample, multicenter RCTs are needed for a more robust evaluation.
目的评价头皮针刺治疗抽动障碍的疗效和安全性。方法采用截至2023年5月16日的19项随机对照试验（RCTs）数据进行荟萃分析，涉及1463例患者，这些数据来自不同的数据库。采用Stata15.0评价临床有效率、YGTSS评分、中医证候评分、不良反应及远期疗效。结果头皮针刺组与对照组相比，YGTSS评分和中医证候评分显著降低，临床有效率显著提高[YGTSS: RR=-3.54, 95% CI (-5.16, -1.93), P < 0.05；中医:RR = -1.86, 95% CI (-2.60, -1.13), P & lt; 0.05;疗效：RR=1.14, 95% CI (1.06, 1.23), P < 0.05]。治疗组不良反应发生率较对照组低（7.29% vs 12.61%），但差异无统计学意义[OR=0.69, 95% CI (0.40, 1.18), P > 0.005]。长期疗效稳定[RR=-1.98, 95% CI (-3.57, -0.39), P < 0.05]。结论头皮针刺能有效改善抽动障碍症状，提高治疗效果，保持远期疗效。然而，由于纳入的随机对照试验的质量较低和潜在的发表偏倚，需要进一步的高质量、大样本、多中心随机对照试验来进行更稳健的评价。
{"title":"Efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture in the treatment of Tic disorders in children: A meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials","authors":"Haijiao Lin , Xiangyu Chen , Zhongtian Wang , Liping Sun","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103242","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103242","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture in treating tic disorders.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We conducted a meta-analysis using data from 19 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1463 patients, sourced from various databases up to May 16, 2023. Stata15.0 was used to assess clinical efficacy rate, YGTSS score, TCM syndrome score, adverse reactions, and long-term efficacy.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Scalp acupuncture significantly reduced YGTSS and TCM syndrome scores and improved clinical efficacy rates compared to controls [YGTSS: RR=-3.54, 95 % CI (-5.16, -1.93), <em>P</em> < 0.05; TCM: RR=-1.86, 95 % CI (-2.60, -1.13), <em>P</em> < 0.05; Efficacy: RR=1.14, 95 % CI (1.06, 1.23), <em>P</em> < 0.05]. Adverse reaction rates were lower in the treatment group (7.29 % vs. 12.61 % in controls), but not statistically significant [OR=0.69, 95 % CI (0.40, 1.18), <em>P</em> > 0.005]. Long-term efficacy was also stable [RR=-1.98, 95 % CI (-3.57, -0.39), <em>P</em> < 0.05].</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Scalp acupuncture is effective in improving tic disorder symptoms, increasing treatment efficacy, and maintaining long-term benefits. However, due to the low quality of included RCTs and potential publication bias, further high-quality, large-sample, multicenter RCTs are needed for a more robust evaluation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103242"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145004053","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-01DOI: 10.1016/S1550-8307(25)00141-7
{"title":"Masthead page","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/S1550-8307(25)00141-7","DOIUrl":"10.1016/S1550-8307(25)00141-7","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 5","pages":"Article 103250"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145003863","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-09-01Epub Date: 2025-07-31DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103230
Saba Ansari, Shaikh Mohammad Aatif Afzal, Mohd Arshad Jamal, Malik Itrat
Introduction: Poliosis, characterized by localized white hair patches due to the absence of melanin, often presents with vitiligo, a chronic depigmenting disorder. Conventional treatments show limited efficacy in managing poliosis, particularly when associated with vitiligo. This case report highlights a successful Unani treatment in a pediatric patient, demonstrating significant clinical improvement.
Case presentation: A 7-year-old female presented with a five-year history of a well-demarcated depigmented skin patch and white hair on the forehead. Following an unsuccessful course of allopathic treatment, the patient underwent Unani therapy comprising oral Zulal Safoofe Bars and topical Roghan (herbal oil). The oil was applied daily and followed by sun exposure.
Outcome: After two months, visible repigmentation of the skin and proximal hair shafts was observed. The patient tolerated the therapy well, and no adverse effects were reported.
Conclusion: This case suggests Unani therapy may be a promising, safe, and culturally acceptable alternative for treating poliosis associated with vitiligo. Further studies are needed to confirm its broader efficacy.
{"title":"Successful treatment of poliosis associated with vitiligo using unani medications: A case report.","authors":"Saba Ansari, Shaikh Mohammad Aatif Afzal, Mohd Arshad Jamal, Malik Itrat","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103230","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103230","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Poliosis, characterized by localized white hair patches due to the absence of melanin, often presents with vitiligo, a chronic depigmenting disorder. Conventional treatments show limited efficacy in managing poliosis, particularly when associated with vitiligo. This case report highlights a successful Unani treatment in a pediatric patient, demonstrating significant clinical improvement.</p><p><strong>Case presentation: </strong>A 7-year-old female presented with a five-year history of a well-demarcated depigmented skin patch and white hair on the forehead. Following an unsuccessful course of allopathic treatment, the patient underwent Unani therapy comprising oral Zulal Safoofe Bars and topical Roghan (herbal oil). The oil was applied daily and followed by sun exposure.</p><p><strong>Outcome: </strong>After two months, visible repigmentation of the skin and proximal hair shafts was observed. The patient tolerated the therapy well, and no adverse effects were reported.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This case suggests Unani therapy may be a promising, safe, and culturally acceptable alternative for treating poliosis associated with vitiligo. Further studies are needed to confirm its broader efficacy.</p>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 5","pages":"103230"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144805210","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-29DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103244
Mary Koithan , Lisa Taylor-Swanson
{"title":"Whole person symptom management: Adapting a palliative care approach across patient populations","authors":"Mary Koithan , Lisa Taylor-Swanson","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103244","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103244","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103244"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144996748","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-29DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103245
Angie Lillehei
{"title":"NREM and REM sleep, cholinergic levels and memory","authors":"Angie Lillehei","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103245","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103245","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103245"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145049002","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a global health concern, and leading cause of liver cirrhosis and carcinoma, with no approved treatment till date. In Unani medicine, the management of fat deposition in liver is done with mufatteḥ-i-sudad (de-obstruent) and muḥallil-i-waram (anti-inflammatory) drugs, to expel morbid matter and restore hepatic functions. This study was done to evaluate the efficacy of Unani drugs in NAFLD on specific biochemical and radiological parameters.
Material and methods
This case series was carried out on five patients of ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD, between December 2024 to May 2025. Drugs recommended in classical Unani literature for the treatment of fat deposition in liver (R. emodi, D. costus, A. absinthium and Lac) were prescribed for 3 months. NAFLD was graded by shearwave elastography before and after the treatment. Safety and efficacy were assessed clinically and with biochemical investigations.
Results
There was a noticeable decrease in BMI, ALP, and SGPT. TAI values decreased in all patients although some patients showed better improvement than others. There was no significant change in haemogram and KFT, indicating the safety of the formulation. The drugs were well-tolerated and no adverse effects were reported.
Discussion
The observations of this study are highly encouraging as the test drugs treated the hepatic pathology, and also mitigated risk factors (obesity, hyperlipidemia), which are known to aggravate NAFLD progression. With further researches, Unani drugs used in this study may provide the much-needed holistic management of NAFLD and its associated comorbidities.
{"title":"Decrease in shear wave elastography values and associated risk factors in patients of NAFLD with Unani treatment: clinical case series","authors":"Asim Ali Khan , Md. Wasi Akhtar , Gulnaz Azmi , Sadia Nikhat","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103243","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103243","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a global health concern, and leading cause of liver cirrhosis and carcinoma, with no approved treatment till date. In Unani medicine, the management of fat deposition in liver is done with <em>mufatteḥ-i-sudad</em> (de-obstruent) and <em>muḥallil-i-waram</em> (anti-inflammatory) drugs, to expel morbid matter and restore hepatic functions. This study was done to evaluate the efficacy of Unani drugs in NAFLD on specific biochemical and radiological parameters.</div></div><div><h3>Material and methods</h3><div>This case series was carried out on five patients of ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD, between December 2024 to May 2025. Drugs recommended in classical Unani literature for the treatment of fat deposition in liver (<em>R. emodi, D. costus, A. absinthium</em> and Lac) were prescribed for 3 months. NAFLD was graded by shearwave elastography before and after the treatment. Safety and efficacy were assessed clinically and with biochemical investigations.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>There was a noticeable decrease in BMI, ALP, and SGPT. TAI values decreased in all patients although some patients showed better improvement than others. There was no significant change in haemogram and KFT, indicating the safety of the formulation. The drugs were well-tolerated and no adverse effects were reported.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>The observations of this study are highly encouraging as the test drugs treated the hepatic pathology, and also mitigated risk factors (obesity, hyperlipidemia), which are known to aggravate NAFLD progression. With further researches, Unani drugs used in this study may provide the much-needed holistic management of NAFLD and its associated comorbidities.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103243"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144932829","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This paper investigates the general relevance of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sleep–disordered breathing (SDB) in pediatric patients, focusing on etiology, prevalence, clinical features, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment options while synthesizing the findings from the existing literature to provide a comprehensive and objective understanding. A systematic review was conducted to examine the association between ADHD and SDB in children, investigating the potential role of TCM in managing this comorbidity. A comprehensive search in multiple databases was conducted from inception to May 2024 using a predefined search strategy. For assessing the quality, we used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist adapted for case–control studies and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) quality assessment tool for before–after studies. Literature data were extracted and analyzed through a critical appraisal of the included studies. Seven studies were selected, with exclusion criteria defined to ensure methodological quality. While included studies demonstrated clarity and relevance in defining eligibility criteria, heterogeneity was observed in participant selection, outcome measures, safety assessment, and follow–up duration, indicating a need for more rigorous research designs in future studies. This report highlights the association between SDB and ADHD in children and underscores the significant potential of integrated treatment modalities for this comorbidity. Careful implementation and validation are essential to establish their role in clinical practice.
{"title":"Enhancing the comprehensive management strategies for attention–deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients with concurrent sleep–disordered breathing: Integrating effective therapeutic approaches","authors":"Fang Chen , Amin Khorshidsavar , Weibin Chen , Soheil Mohtaram","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103241","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103241","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper investigates the general relevance of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sleep–disordered breathing (SDB) in pediatric patients, focusing on etiology, prevalence, clinical features, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment options while synthesizing the findings from the existing literature to provide a comprehensive and objective understanding. A systematic review was conducted to examine the association between ADHD and SDB in children, investigating the potential role of TCM in managing this comorbidity. A comprehensive search in multiple databases was conducted from inception to May 2024 using a predefined search strategy. For assessing the quality, we used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist adapted for case–control studies and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) quality assessment tool for before–after studies. Literature data were extracted and analyzed through a critical appraisal of the included studies. Seven studies were selected, with exclusion criteria defined to ensure methodological quality. While included studies demonstrated clarity and relevance in defining eligibility criteria, heterogeneity was observed in participant selection, outcome measures, safety assessment, and follow–up duration, indicating a need for more rigorous research designs in future studies. This report highlights the association between SDB and ADHD in children and underscores the significant potential of integrated treatment modalities for this comorbidity. Careful implementation and validation are essential to establish their role in clinical practice.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103241"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144902808","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-15DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103240
Qiang Zhang , Peilu Zhang , Dongwei Yan
Objectives
This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Cassia Oil (CO)-based fragrance therapy in alleviating winter-aggravated mood disorders (including depression and anxiety) in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, specifically assessing its effects on improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue-key comorbid symptoms often exacerbated in winter. Additionally, it sought to verify whether this non-pharmacological intervention could serve as a viable complementary strategy for managing seasonal symptom fluctuations in PD.
Methods
Eighty PD patients were randomized to receive CO inhalation therapy (2 h/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks; n = 40) or standard care (n = 40). Outcomes included mood (Hamilton Depression Scale [HAMD], Hamilton Anxiety Scale [HAMA]), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), fatigue (Fatigue Scale-14 [FS-14]). Assessments were conducted at baseline and post-treatment.
Results
The intervention group demonstrated significant reductions in HAMD (22.08±5.43 vs. 13.65±2.73, p < 0.01) and HAMA scores (17.63±4.50 vs. 12.23±0.53, p < 0.001), with no changes in controls (HAMD: 22.87±6.03 to 23.38±5.66, p = 0.72; HAMA: 16.93±3.87 to 15.95±4.55, p = 0.31). PSQI total scores improved significantly in the intervention group (12.20±3.09 to 0.83±0.96, p < 0.01), particularly in subjective sleep quality (t = 6.55, p < 0.01) and sleep latency (t = 5.46, p < 0.01).
Conclusion
CO-based fragrance therapy effectively improved mood, sleep quality, and fatigue in PD patients during winter, offering a novel non-pharmacological approach for seasonal symptom management.
{"title":"Unraveling cassia oil's efficacy in alleviating winter-triggered mood disorders in Parkinson's disease patients via aromatherapy-mediated pathways","authors":"Qiang Zhang , Peilu Zhang , Dongwei Yan","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103240","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103240","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Cassia Oil (CO)-based fragrance therapy in alleviating winter-aggravated mood disorders (including depression and anxiety) in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, specifically assessing its effects on improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue-key comorbid symptoms often exacerbated in winter. Additionally, it sought to verify whether this non-pharmacological intervention could serve as a viable complementary strategy for managing seasonal symptom fluctuations in PD.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Eighty PD patients were randomized to receive CO inhalation therapy (2 h/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks; <em>n</em> = 40) or standard care (<em>n</em> = 40). Outcomes included mood (Hamilton Depression Scale [HAMD], Hamilton Anxiety Scale [HAMA]), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), fatigue (Fatigue Scale-14 [FS-14]). Assessments were conducted at baseline and post-treatment.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The intervention group demonstrated significant reductions in HAMD (22.08±5.43 vs. 13.65±2.73, <em>p</em> < 0.01) and HAMA scores (17.63±4.50 vs. 12.23±0.53, <em>p</em> < 0.001), with no changes in controls (HAMD: 22.87±6.03 to 23.38±5.66, <em>p</em> = 0.72; HAMA: 16.93±3.87 to 15.95±4.55, <em>p</em> = 0.31). PSQI total scores improved significantly in the intervention group (12.20±3.09 to 0.83±0.96, <em>p</em> < 0.01), particularly in subjective sleep quality (<em>t</em> = 6.55, <em>p</em> < 0.01) and sleep latency (<em>t</em> = 5.46, <em>p</em> < 0.01).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>CO-based fragrance therapy effectively improved mood, sleep quality, and fatigue in PD patients during winter, offering a novel non-pharmacological approach for seasonal symptom management.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103240"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144880357","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-13DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103239
Tuğba ÇAM Yanik (Assistant Professor) , Zeliha Yaman (Assistant Professor) , Gülay Altun Ugras (Professor) , Mualla Yilmaz (Professor) , Naciye Balbay (Nurse) , Dr Galip Bal (Doctor)
Background
Patients may experience anxiety before cystectomy due to surgical intervention, which may negatively affect their hemodynamic parameters. This study aimed to determine the effect of acupressure on anxiety and hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing cystectomy.
Material and Method
This single center, prospective, two-arm (1:1), single-blind, randomized controlled trial included 52 patients scheduled for cystectomy. The randomly assigned acupressure group (n = 26) received acupressure at HT7, LI4 and EX-NH3 points for an average of 13 minutes half an hour before surgery, while the sham acupressure group (n = 26) received lighter acupressure at points 1.5 cm away from the same points. Data were collected before and immediately after 10, 20, and 30 minutes of acupressure application using the Visual Analog Scale-Anxiety. The first Clinical Trials registration (NCT05325307) of the study was received on 04.05.2022 before data collection.
Results
In the study, the patients’ anxiety levels before cystectomy were 4.92 ± 1.16 in the acupressure group and 5.35 ± 1.60 in the sham acupressure group. Comparing the two groups revealed no difference between their anxiety levels before the application; however, the anxiety level of the acupressure group was lower than that of the sham acupressure group immediately after the application and 10, 20, and 30 minutes after the application. Additionally, the RR was significantly lower in the acupressure group immediately after the application and at 10 minutes, but other parameters (SBP, DBP, HR, and SpO2) were not affected compared to the sham acupressure group.
Conclusion
The study showed that acupressure was an effective method for nursing practicing in reducing the anxiety level and affected only the RR among the hemodynamic parameters.
{"title":"The effect of acupressure applied before cystectomy on preoperative anxiety and hemodynamic parameters: Randomized controlled trial","authors":"Tuğba ÇAM Yanik (Assistant Professor) , Zeliha Yaman (Assistant Professor) , Gülay Altun Ugras (Professor) , Mualla Yilmaz (Professor) , Naciye Balbay (Nurse) , Dr Galip Bal (Doctor)","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103239","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103239","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Patients may experience anxiety before cystectomy due to surgical intervention, which may negatively affect their hemodynamic parameters. This study aimed to determine the effect of acupressure on anxiety and hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing cystectomy.</div></div><div><h3>Material and Method</h3><div>This single center, prospective, two-arm (1:1), single-blind, randomized controlled trial included 52 patients scheduled for cystectomy. The randomly assigned acupressure group (n = 26) received acupressure at HT7, LI4 and EX-NH3 points for an average of 13 minutes half an hour before surgery, while the sham acupressure group (n = 26) received lighter acupressure at points 1.5 cm away from the same points. Data were collected before and immediately after 10, 20, and 30 minutes of acupressure application using the Visual Analog Scale-Anxiety. The first Clinical Trials registration (NCT05325307) of the study was received on 04.05.2022 before data collection.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>In the study, the patients’ anxiety levels before cystectomy were 4.92 ± 1.16 in the acupressure group and 5.35 ± 1.60 in the sham acupressure group. Comparing the two groups revealed no difference between their anxiety levels before the application; however, the anxiety level of the acupressure group was lower than that of the sham acupressure group immediately after the application and 10, 20, and 30 minutes after the application. Additionally, the RR was significantly lower in the acupressure group immediately after the application and at 10 minutes, but other parameters (SBP, DBP, HR, and SpO<sub>2</sub>) were not affected compared to the sham acupressure group.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The study showed that acupressure was an effective method for nursing practicing in reducing the anxiety level and affected only the RR among the hemodynamic parameters.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 6","pages":"Article 103239"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144880358","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-11DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103238
Qinan Xian , Juan Zhou , Xin Li , Yiwen Xu , Yan Sun
Background
Tinnitus is a common auditory disorder that seriously affects the quality of life and is often accompanied by psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. Existing therapies have problems such as side effects or high costs. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (i-CBT), due to its low cost and flexibility, has become a new option. This study uses a meta-analysis to systematically assess the potential intervention effects of i-CBT on patients with tinnitus, supporting its potential value in clinical application.
Methods
This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The study protocol was registered in Prospero (ID: CRD42025646698). Four databases were searched from their inception to January 2025.
Results
A total of 9 studies were included. The results indicated that i-CBT significantly improved the symptom distress, insomnia, anxiety and depression of tinnitus patients: Tinnitus Functional Index(MD = -12.48, 95 % CI -16.43, -8.54), Tinnitus Questionnaire(MD = -5.52, 95 % CI -8.15, -2.88), Insomnia Severity Index (MD = -2.65, 95 % CI -3.64, -1.67), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (MD = -1.33, 95 % CI -2.37, -0.30), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale – Anxiety(MD = -1.92, 95 % CI -2.72, -1.12), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale - Depression (MD = -1.40, 95 % CI -2.18, -0.61), Patient Health Questionnaire (MD = -1.46, 95 % CI -2.87, -0.06); however, there was no significant improvement in the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory(MD = -2.98, 95 % CI -12.03, 6.07) and the tinnitus cognition questionnaire(MD = -9.09, 95 % CI -23.46, 5.28).
Conclusion
i-CBT may have beneficial effects in reducing tinnitus severity and alleviating related symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression. As an expandable and low-cost treatment approach, i-CBT offers a new direction for tinnitus management, especially in regions with limited medical resources. However, future research still needs to optimize the intervention design, standardize measurement criteria, and conduct large-scale, multi-center, and long-term follow-up studies to verify its sustained efficacy and clarify its mechanism of action.
耳鸣是一种常见的听觉障碍，严重影响生活质量，常伴有抑郁、焦虑等心理问题。现有的治疗方法存在副作用或高成本等问题。基于网络的认知行为治疗（i-CBT）因其成本低、灵活性强而成为一种新的选择。本研究通过荟萃分析系统评估i-CBT对耳鸣患者的潜在干预效果，支持其临床应用的潜在价值。方法采用随机对照试验（RCTs）等方法进行系统评价和荟萃分析。研究方案已在Prospero注册（ID: CRD42025646698）。从成立到2025年1月，对四个数据库进行了检索。结果共纳入9项研究。结果表明，i-CBT可显著改善耳鸣患者的症状困扰、失眠、焦虑和抑郁；耳鸣函数索引(MD = -12.48, 95% CI -16.43, -8.54),耳鸣问卷(MD = -5.52, 95% CI -8.15, -2.88),失眠严重程度指数(MD = -2.65, 95% CI -3.64, -1.67),广泛性焦虑症Disorder-7 (MD = -1.33, 95% CI -2.37, -0.30),医院焦虑抑郁量表——焦虑(MD = -1.92, 95% CI -2.72, -1.12),医院焦虑抑郁量表——抑郁(MD = -1.40, 95% CI -2.18, -0.61),病人健康问卷(MD = -1.46, 95% CI -2.87, -0.06);然而，耳鸣障碍量表（MD = -2.98, 95% CI -12.03, 6.07）和耳鸣认知问卷（MD = -9.09, 95% CI -23.46, 5.28）无显著改善。结论：cbt可有效降低耳鸣严重程度，缓解失眠、焦虑、抑郁等相关症状。作为一种可扩展的低成本治疗方法，i-CBT为耳鸣治疗提供了新的方向，特别是在医疗资源有限的地区。但未来的研究仍需优化干预设计，规范测量标准，开展大规模、多中心、长期随访研究，验证其持续疗效，明确其作用机制。
{"title":"Effects of Internet-based and mobile device-based cognitive behavioral therapy on tinnitus intervention: a systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Qinan Xian , Juan Zhou , Xin Li , Yiwen Xu , Yan Sun","doi":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103238","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.explore.2025.103238","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Tinnitus is a common auditory disorder that seriously affects the quality of life and is often accompanied by psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. Existing therapies have problems such as side effects or high costs. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (i-CBT), due to its low cost and flexibility, has become a new option. This study uses a meta-analysis to systematically assess the potential intervention effects of i-CBT on patients with tinnitus, supporting its potential value in clinical application.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The study protocol was registered in Prospero (ID: CRD42025646698). Four databases were searched from their inception to January 2025.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 9 studies were included. The results indicated that i-CBT significantly improved the symptom distress, insomnia, anxiety and depression of tinnitus patients: Tinnitus Functional Index(MD = -12.48, 95 % CI -16.43, -8.54), Tinnitus Questionnaire(MD = -5.52, 95 % CI -8.15, -2.88), Insomnia Severity Index (MD = -2.65, 95 % CI -3.64, -1.67), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (MD = -1.33, 95 % CI -2.37, -0.30), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale – Anxiety(MD = -1.92, 95 % CI -2.72, -1.12), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale - Depression (MD = -1.40, 95 % CI -2.18, -0.61), Patient Health Questionnaire (MD = -1.46, 95 % CI -2.87, -0.06); however, there was no significant improvement in the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory(MD = -2.98, 95 % CI -12.03, 6.07) and the tinnitus cognition questionnaire(MD = -9.09, 95 % CI -23.46, 5.28).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>i-CBT may have beneficial effects in reducing tinnitus severity and alleviating related symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and depression. As an expandable and low-cost treatment approach, i-CBT offers a new direction for tinnitus management, especially in regions with limited medical resources. However, future research still needs to optimize the intervention design, standardize measurement criteria, and conduct large-scale, multi-center, and long-term follow-up studies to verify its sustained efficacy and clarify its mechanism of action.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":50459,"journal":{"name":"Explore-The Journal of Science and Healing","volume":"21 5","pages":"Article 103238"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-08-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144842624","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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