Alternative Treatments Research Articles

Comparison of Various Methods for Observing Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Microscopically

Technological developments are increasingly rapid in the field of identification and special equipment in the field of microbiology, the development of staining methods and microscopic observation is growing rapidly. The Ziehl Neelsen staining method is still an alternative follow-up to other alternative treatments using the Auramin O staining method with flurocene microscope observation. This research is an analytical observational study and a cross sectional research design to see the differences in readings between Ziehl Neelsen staining, flurocene auramin and gram staining. We used isolates that had been identified as Mycobacterium tuberculosis which we obtained from Balepkes and Pak provinces of Central Java under non-activation conditions, by autoclaving at 121 degrees for 15 minutes. The number of samples was 10 slides with Ziehl Neelsen staining, Flurocene Auramin and Gram staining. The results of the sensitivity and specificity research between Ziehl Neelsen and auramin O were 100%. Meanwhile, the gram staining method and SEM observation cannot be compared because they can only observe bacterial morphology. From the research results it can be concluded that Auramin O can be used as an alternative Ziehl Neelsen painting agent.

Inclusive Exploration of Harmonizing and Alternative Treatments for Hypothyroidism

: A clinical syndrome known as hypothyroidism occurs due to a shortage of thyroid hormone as a result of decreased production, abnormal distribution, or no action of thyroid hormones. The most typical clinical symptoms included are dry skin, hair loss, weight gain, painful-prolonged periods, infertility, balance problems, slow speech, bradycardia, hypothermia, fatigue, anxiety & depression, joint pain, and indigestion. Basically, age, gender, the severity of the ailment, and a few other factors affect the various signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. The limitations of allopathic modalities necessitate the investigation of alternative treatment options. Future healthcare initiatives for the poor world will increasingly depend on CAM approaches to these concerns because lifestyle, diet, obesity, lack of exercise, and stress are significant contributing factors to the development of hypothyroidism. This review's objective is to provide information on herbs as well as complementary and alternative medications which are grouped into five major domains: Biologically Based therapies, Manipulative body-based therapies, Mind body-based therapies, and the whole Medical system. These have traditionally been used to treat thyroid dysfunction. The distribution of diseases in emerging nations is altering as a result of globalization. Hence the existing and potential roles of CAM techniques in the general practice of medicine are illustrated in these approaches. Scientists are being compelled to consider traditional herbal medical treatments and CAM therapy in order to combat adverse medication occurrences, high treatment costs, and compliance problems thus described in this review paper.

Long-term investigation of uniaxial compressive and self-sensing performances of ultra-high performance seawater sea-sand concrete incorporating superfine stainless wires: Insights into underlying mechanisms and theoretical models

Developing intrinsic self-sensing concrete is expected to provide a digital intelligence solution to address the infrastructure’s challenges in terms of safety, lifespan, resilience, and carbon emission reduction. Using seawater and sea-sand as well as corrosion-resistant conductive fillers to fabricate self-sensing ultra-high seawater sea-sand performance concrete (UHPSSC) with outstanding mechanical and durability performances is the prerequisite for realizing localized resource utilization and in-situ monitoring of marine infrastructure. However, the potential effect of ions from seawater and sea-sand on the long-term stability of mechanical and electrical performances cannot be ignored. This paper presents a long-term investigation of uniaxial compressive, electrical, and self-sensing performances of superfine stainless wires (SWs) reinforced UHPSSC under natural curing. The results show that incorporating 1.5% SWs improves the compressive strength, elastic modulus, peak strain, and toughness of UHPSSC by 25.0%, 11.7%, 33.8%, and 119.2%, respectively. The established statistical damage constitutive models based on Weibull strength theory highlight the roles of SWs in delaying crack initiation. The dense microstructure of SWs-reinforced UHPSSC inhibits the growth of expansive hydration products formed by corrosive ions, thus guaranteeing its long-term strength development. Additionally, due to incorporating 1.5% SWs, the electrical resistivity of UHPSSC is reduced by seven orders of magnitude, with a strain sensitivity of 119.1 under monotonic compressive loading and a monitoring stress range of 0-148.4 MPa, indicating that SWs-reinforced UHPSSC can sense its stress and strain while providing early warning of crack initiation and propagation. Benefiting from the rust-free property, micron diameter, and high aspect ratio of SWs, the primary conductive path of composites comprises the overlapping networks formed by low-content SWs, which are not influenced by the ion conduction of conductive ions. Hence, SWs-reinforced UHPSSC exhibits stable electrical resistivity and sensitivity during long-term curing, suggesting its considerable potential for long-term in-situ monitoring of marine infrastructure.

Seeds of Wellness: A Pilot Study of Horticultural Therapy and Nature-Based Expressive Arts to Support Holistic Wellness for Adults

ABSTRACT Ecotherapeutic and nature-based interventions have shown promise in supporting holistic wellness. A pilot study was conducted to measure the effectiveness of Seeds of Wellness, an eight-week horticultural therapy and nature-based expressive arts program designed to support holistic wellness. The Five Factor Wellness Inventory (5F-WEL) and Reese EcoWellness Inventory were used to measure change in wellness throughout the program. A check-in and follow-up assessment was developed and administered at the start and end of each weekly session to measure change throughout the program. The process of development, implementation, study results, and implications are reviewed. Statistical analysis showed that there was a significant improvement in overall EcoWellness Inventory scores from the start to the end of the program. According to the 5F-Wel, there was no significant change in overall wellness behavior scores from the start to the end of the program. However, weekly check-in and follow-up scores illustrated positive changes in participants from the start to the end of each session, suggesting that perceived wellness may have been positively impacted. Future studies could include a focus on the impact of horticultural and nature-based on perceived wellness.

Preferences for genetic interventions for SCA and Huntington’s disease: results of a discrete choice experiment among patients

BackgroundAlthough genetic interventions are on the horizon for some polyglutamine expansion diseases, such as subtypes of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) and Huntington’s disease (HD), the patients’ preferences regarding these new therapies are unclear. This study aims to get insight into what extent different characteristics of genetic interventions affect the preferences of patients with SCA and HD with regard to these interventions.MethodsManifest and premanifest patients with SCA or HD were recruited online by platforms of patient associations. The respondents conducted a questionnaire that included a discrete choice experiment (DCE). The experimental design included 24 choice sets, but these were divided into three blocks of eight to reduce the number of tasks per respondent. Each choice set included two alternative treatments and consisted of four attributes (mode and frequency of administration, chance of a beneficial effect, risks, and follow-up), each with three or four different levels. The forced choice-elicitation format was used. Data were analyzed by using a multinominal logistic regression model.ResultsResponses of 216 participants were collected. The mode and frequency of administration of a genetic intervention, as well as the chance of a beneficial effect both influence the choice for a genetic intervention. Respondents less prefer repeated lumbar punctures compared to a single operation. As expected, a higher beneficial effect of treatment was preferred. Risks and follow-up did not influence the choice for a genetic intervention.ConclusionsThe results can be used for the design and implementation of future genetic interventional trials as well as of patient-centered care pathways for rare movement disorders such as SCA and HD.

From Orchard to Wellness: Unveiling the Health Effects of Sweet Cherry Nutrients

This review paper explores the multifaceted relationship between sweet cherry nutrients and human health, aiming to uncover the comprehensive impact of these bioactive compounds from orchard to wellness. Furthermore, it highlights how advanced crop techniques can be pivotal in optimizing these beneficial compounds. Synthesizing existing literature, the paper examines the diverse bioactive nutrients in sweet cherries, including antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, and elucidating their mechanisms of action and potential health benefits. From antioxidant properties to anti-inflammatory effects, the paper elucidates how these nutrients may mitigate chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions. Additionally, it explores their role in promoting gastrointestinal health, enhancing exercise recovery, and modulating sleep patterns. The review discusses emerging research on the potential anti-cancer properties of sweet cherry compounds, highlighting their promising role in cancer prevention and treatment. Furthermore, it delves into the impact of sweet cherry consumption on metabolic health, weight management, and skin health. By providing a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of sweet cherry nutrients and their health effects, this paper offers valuable insights for researchers, healthcare professionals, and consumers interested in utilizing nature’s bounty for holistic wellness.

Persistent angina following revascularization for chronic coronary syndromes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Introduction Recent randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that revascularization plus optimal medical therapy for patients with chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) results in greater reduction in angina than medical therapy alone. However, the frequency of persistent angina following revascularization for CCS is not well understood. Purpose To quantify the frequency of persistent angina following revascularization in contemporary RCTs of revascularization plus medical therapy vs. medical therapy alone among patients with CCS. Methods A literature search through January of 2024 was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for contemporary RCTs reporting angina frequency following randomization to revascularization plus medical therapy vs. medical therapy alone. The primary outcome of interest was the frequency of persistent angina in the revascularization arms of these studies at early (3-12 months) and late (3-5 years) time points. A random effects model was used to combine results from individual studies. Results From a total of 5287 citations, the search yielded 7 RCTs that met inclusion criteria. These studies randomized 5719 patients to an invasive or revascularization strategy. Revascularization was exclusively by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in 4 studies and by coronary artery bypass grafting or PCI in 3 studies. At the early time point, the combined frequency of persistent angina was 39.6% (95% CI: 30.6-49.4). For the two blinded, sham-controlled studies, the rate of persistent angina was significantly greater at 67.2% (95%CI: 54.9-77.4) compared to 30.5% (95% CI: 23.1-39) in the unblinded studies (P<0.001). In the 5 studies with 3-5 years of follow-up, the frequency of persistent angina was 33.3% (95% CI: 19.2-51.2). Conclusion Persistent angina is common after revascularization for CCS and suggests alternative causes and treatments of residual angina should be considered.

Evaluation of orphan maintained biological medicinal products in the European Union between 2018 to 2023: a regulatory perspective

ABSTRACT Objectives Orphan medicinal products (OMPs) authorized in the European Union (EU) benefit from market exclusivity, fee waivers, and national incentives. Maintaining orphan status during the marketing authorization application (MAA) requires meeting eligibility criteria, especially demonstrating significant benefit (SB), which is challenging. This study identifies key features linked to successful orphan status maintenance for biological OMPs approved in the EU between 2018 and 2023. Methods Data from European public assessment reports and orphan maintenance assessment reports were analyzed. Results Among the 50 biological OMPs granted orphan designation, 68.0% had to demonstrate SB over existing treatments, with 91.2% leveraging the clinically relevant advantage area, utilizing better clinical efficacy (83.8%) and subpopulation (38.7%) sub-domains. However, 32% did not need to demonstrate SB due to a lack of alternative treatments, most of which were ultra-orphan drugs. Advanced therapy medicinal products and monoclonal antibodies were the most numerous OMP categories, whereas oncology and immunomodulation were the preferred therapeutic areas. Conclusion The Orphan Regulation plays a critical role in advancing treatments for rare diseases, fostering innovation while addressing unmet medical needs. Nonetheless, the insufficient return on investment criterion remains underused, whereas refining major contribution to patient care guidelines and incorporating real-world evidence may enhance regulatory evaluations.

Addressing Unmet Needs in Atopic Dermatitis: Evaluating Disease-Modifying Capabilities of Current and Emerging Therapies.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a highly burdensome inflammatory skin condition affecting nearly one-quarter of the pediatric population and often continuing into adulthood. Despite recent advancements in systemic therapies providing temporary symptom relief over the past decade, AD frequently remains difficult to control, necessitating increased dosages or alternative treatments due to recurrent disease. This review synthesizes current literature to identify unmet needs of treating AD beyond medication-related limitations and evaluates existing therapies for their efficacy in modifying underlying disease mechanisms. Key findings include variability in AD pathophysiology and phenotypes across different age groups and ethnicities, indicating a need for research into endotype-specific treatments. The literature also comprises evidence suggesting that select current drugs, such as targeted biologics and Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors, may offer long-term disease-modifying benefits. Future management strategies should explore novel approaches, including manipulation of the microbiome, immune response, and neural function, as these may lead to additional improvements in AD treatment and long-term symptom relief.

PROTOCOLOS TERAPÊUTICOS PARA O TRATAMENTO DA ESPOROTRICOSE FELINA REFRATÁRIA E INOVAÇÕES DECORRENTES DAS PESQUISAS

Sporotrichosis in felines is much more pathogenic than in other animals or in humans, even if immunocompetent, which makes treatment a challenge in clinical medicine, as many of them are refractory to the preferred therapy such as Itraconazole or Ketoconazole. This situation also arises from the prolonged oral administration of the medication, the animal's reluctance to take the drug and the guardian's abandonment of the prescription when he notices an improvement in the lesions caused by the disease, which generates relapses and resistance to the antifungals available on the market. Itraconazole, as well as Ketoconazole, act by causing permeability of the plasma membrane and cell necrosis, however, they have adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting in the first and liver disease as relevance in the second. Terbinafine works by interrupting the synthesis of ergosterol and as a consequence the cell membrane ruptures and death, however, it also has side effects such as gastrointestinal and skin problems. Potassium iodide can be used in combination with azoles or Terbinafine, although the literature does not agree with the issue, as not all felines respond to treatment, adverse effects are due to iodism such as depression, anorexia, vomiting and diarrhea. There are also alternative treatments that can enhance oral medication, such as laser therapy, ozone therapy, cryotherapy and cryosurgery. Due to the issue of non-responsive felines, there is research being developed aiming to provide new therapeutic horizons for these animals, such as the use of intranasal infusion of 1% Clotrimazole spray associated with Itraconazole added with Potassium iodide or not, with good results, no relapses and no side effects. NikZ, the result of a substance produced by the bacterium Streptomyces tendae, called Nikkomycin Z, also appears as a new therapeutic potential for the treatment of Sporotrix spp., with a blocking effect on chitin synthase present in the cell wall of fungi, were maide research with dogs, rats and is in Phase 1 of experiments on humans. NikZ represents a new form of prescription, as it can be placed in the animals' drinking water, avoiding the desertion of those responsible for the felines, it has no observable adverse effects in the analyzes carried out and represents an alternative for cats refractory to existing medical protocols in veterinary.

Study the Antifungal Effects of Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles on the Aspergillus niger, Microsporum canis, and Candida albicans

: The increasing prevalence of drug-resistant fungal pathogens and the limitations of current antifungal therapies underscore the need for novel alternative treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effects of green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on three clinically significant fungi: Aspergillus niger, Microsporum canis, and Candida albicans. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using plant-based extracts to ensure eco-friendly production methods. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using UV spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Characterization assays revealed spherical particles with colloidal stability, an average size of approximately 80 nm, a Polydispersity Index of 0.4, and a surface charge of 62.3 mV. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values demonstrated effective suppression of fungal growth at low nanoparticle concentrations. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential of green-synthesized Ag NPs as a promising alternative to conventional antifungal agents, emphasizing their significant advantages in biocompatibility and eco-friendliness. These findings could pave the way for a new era in treating fungal infections, particularly those caused by drug-resistant strains.

Making Sense of Topical Pain Relief Options: Comparing Topical Analgesics in Efficacy and Safety.

In patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, pain is the leading contributor to disability and significantly limits mobility and dexterity. This narrative review describes the efficacy and safety of topical analgesics in common use today. Secondary literature gained via a literature search using PubMed.gov and the Cochrane library were used. Recent literature (2000-2023) on several major classes of topical analgesics and topical delivery systems were reviewed to provide strength of recommendation taxonomy (SORT) levels. A total of 86 articles were reviewed. Level 2. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cabbage leaf wraps (CLW) appear to be best suited for multiple types of acute MSK pain, and topical nitroglycerin is helpful when used specifically for rotator cuff pain in patients seeking relief while performing activities of daily living and willing to treat for long periods of time. For compounded topical formulations, it may be better to offer single agent creams based on patient preferences. Little data support the use of cryotherapy. Traumeel could be a promising natural analgesic that compares with diclofenac. Topical lidocaine appears best suited for postherpetic neuropathic pain. O24 is a reasonable alternative with a low risk profile to treat pain in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome. Choice of topical agents should be guided by current evidence accounting for type of pain, medication side effects, patient comorbidities, as well as patient preference, convenience, and cost. Of the topical analgesics and modalities reviewed, SORT level A evidence was found for topical NSAID use in decreasing MSK pain, topical lidocaine for postherpetic neuralgia, and nitroglycerin patches for treating rotator cuff pain if used for prolonged periods of time. Alternative treatments such as CLW and Traumeel show promising results (SORT level B).

Harnessing Nature's Potential: Innovating Antibacterial Cream through Garlic and Clove Extracts

The onset of the antibiotics period was characterised by the clinical implementation of penicillin, the inaugural antibiotic, unearthed in 1928 by Alexander Fleming in the green mould Penicillium notatum. Garlic and clove have long been used as traditional treatments for different diseases, including infections. Their antibacterial qualities have been attributed to their sulfur-containing components, such as allicin and ajoene in garlic, and eugenol and isoeugenol in clove. In this study, we wanted to produce a novel antibacterial cream leveraging the synergistic properties of garlic and clove extracts. The cream was manufactured utilizing a simple and scalable technique, and its antimicrobial activity was assessed against a panel of microbes present in our surrounding. The results indicated that the cream had considerable antibacterial action against all tested microorganisms, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) comparable to conventional antibiotics. This study establishes a groundbreaking, ecologically-oriented method for safeguarding and healing the skin. The tropical antimicrobial cream provides a secure and efficient substitute for traditional antimicrobials that may have harsh effects, while also including the nourishing and rejuvenating qualities of tropical botanicals. This groundbreaking research marks a significant advancement in the realm of natural, holistic skin health solutions. The tropical antimicrobial cream stands as a potent alternative to conventional, potentially harsh antimicrobials, offering a safe and effective way to combat skin infections and irritations. Furthermore, its incorporation of nourishing and restorative tropical botanicals transcends mere protection, promoting overall skin health and well-being. Beyond the individual benefits, this innovation holds immense potential for promoting sustainable practices within tropical ecosystems by leveraging resources responsibly and ethically. This paves the way for a future where nature's wisdom empowers us to safeguard our skin with gentle effectiveness, while simultaneously cherishing and preserving the biodiversity that holds the key to our well-being.

Anti-inflammatory effectiveness of Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth in rats induced with periodontitis

BackgroundPeriodontitis, marked by deep periodontal pocket depth (PPD), facilitates bacterial colonization and inflammation, necessitating adjunctive therapies. Although 0.2 % chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash is effective, its side effects have led to the search for alternative treatments. Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth, known as Pepper Elder, is a traditional medicinal plant with potential as an adjunctive herbal therapy for periodontitis. ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory efficacy of Peperomia pellucida extract in rats with induced periodontitis. MethodsA post-test control group design was used in this laboratory experimental study. Four groups of Wistar strain Rattus norvegicus rats were utilized: a Pristine group (without periodontitis), a negative control group (induced periodontitis only), a positive control group (induced periodontitis and administered 0.2 % CHX), and an experimental group (induced periodontitis and administered 2.5 μL of Pepper Elder extract). Each treatment group received daily administration for one week. PPD measurements were taken on days 0, 3, 5, and 7. Blood serum was collected on day 7 for ELISA to measure IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-13 levels. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test with a post hoc LSD and Mann-Whitney test. ResultsThe extract-treated rats showed a decrease in PPD, with significant differences between the extract group and the negative control group (p < 0.05). TNF-α levels in the extract group differed significantly from the negative control group (p < 0.05) but not from the Pristine and positive control groups. IL-1β levels differed significantly only from the negative control group. IL-10 levels were significantly different from both the Pristine and negative control groups, while IL-13 levels differed significantly only from the negative control group. ConclusionPeperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth extract exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in rats with induced periodontitis.

Advances in Prostate Cancer Immunotherapy: Current Options and Emerging Novel Approaches

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a significant malignancy in men, contributing considerably to the rise in male mortality rates worldwide. Men diagnosed with PCa may have either localized or advanced stages of the disease. Globally, it ranks as the second most common and fifth most aggressive cancer type in males. The likelihood of developing prostate cancer in a man’s lifetime is approximately one in seven. Epidemiological research has linked various environmental and genetic factors to the abnormal growth of prostate cells, which leads to the formation of cancerous cells. Men experiencing a recurrence of prostate cancer or presenting with metastasis typically undergo androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), along with salvage radiotherapy and chemotherapy. While current treatment methods are more effective when used in combination, prostate cancer remains incurable. Research efforts are focused on exploring alternative treatments, including traditional medicine, nanotechnology applications, and gene therapy, to address drug resistance and mitigate the side effects associated with existing treatments. This article provides an overview the current treatment methods, and ongoing research into new treatment alternatives.

Trends in Korean intervention studies on complementary and alternative therapies in rehabilitation nursing

In nursing, complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) can be provided alongside, or as alternatives, to conventional medical treatments to maximize therapeutic effects, accelerate rehabilitation, and enhance patient satisfaction. Fostering the correct knowledge and attitudes toward CATs is crucial not only for theoretical development but also for practical application. To gain a comprehensive understanding of recent domestic research trends, this study conducted an integrative review to analyze different types of CAT-related intervention studies in rehabilitation nursing in South Korea. A literature search of relevant databases suggested 14 papers. The review revealed that most studies focused on older adult patients, with manipulative and body-based therapies being the most common CAT interventions, followed by energy therapies, mind-body therapies, and others. The efficacy analysis of the CATs used in the selected studies indicated that their effects varied depending on participant characteristics and outcome measures, even when the same CAT was employed. To advance the field of rehabilitation nursing, effective CATs that are proven to be safe for older adult patients need to be developed and actively utilized. Additionally, specialized nurse training programs and clinical and community-based applications for rehabilitation patients requiring interventions need to be developed.

Integrating planetary health education into tertiary curricula: a practical toolbox for implementation

ObjectiveTo present a series of case studies from our respective countries and disciplines on approaches to implementing the Planetary Health Education Framework in university health professional education programs, and to propose a curriculum implementation and evaluation toolbox for educators to facilitate the adoption of similar initiatives in their programs. We emphasize the importance of applying an Indigenous lens to curriculum needs assessment, development, implementation, and evaluation.MethodsCase studies from Australia and United States were collated using a six-stage design-based educational research framework (Focus, Formulation, Contextualization, Definition, Implementation, Evaluation) for teaching planetary health and methods of curriculum evaluation. These components were then mapped to derive the curriculum implementation toolbox reflecting the six-stage design-based educational research framework.ResultsThe case studies demonstrated different approaches to successful integration of the Planetary Health Education Framework in medicine, nursing, public health, and allied health disciplines. This integration often involved Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship, holistic health, and community well-being into the curriculum. The case studies also highlighted the importance of community engagement, cultural competency, and interdisciplinary collaboration in curriculum development. Findings from case studies were used to propose a curriculum implementation toolbox to assist educators in adapting and integrating planetary health education into their own programs.DiscussionWhile valuable frameworks for teaching planetary health in health science programs exist, challenges remain in implementing these frameworks in real-world educational environments. The proposed curriculum implementation toolbox offers practical strategies and resources for educators to incorporate these principles into their teaching. Additionally, the case studies reported here contribute to the growing body of literature on planetary health education pertinent to addressing the triple planetary crisis.

Factors Associated With Acceptance of an Optional Diagnosis.

A sensation becomes a symptom (a concern) when a person associates it with potential illness. In the absence of objective evidence of a pathophysiological process that has important health consequences without treatment, assigning a diagnosis to the sensation is optional. This is important because labeling of benign bodily sensations as pathophysiology has potential advantages and disadvantages. We asked what patient and clinician factors are associated with willingness to accept an optional diagnosis. In a survey administered using Amazon M-Turk, 536 people anonymously completed validated measures for symptoms of anxiety and depression, intolerance of uncertainty, and skepticism regarding the healthcare system. They then viewed fictional personal medical scenarios in which they were asked to imagine they experienced certain symptoms, and were offered an optional diagnosis of a nerve problem, muscle pain syndrome, or fatigue syndrome, and were asked to rate their willingness to accept the diagnosis on an 12-point ordinal scale from 0 indicating "I do not accept it at all" to 11 indicating "I accept it with enthusiasm." The language of the scenarios was varied to attempt to reflect critical thinking, denigration of other doctors, an alternative mental health focus, or a hopeful outlook. Multilevel linear regression was used to identify factors associated with likelihood of accepting an optional diagnosis. Threshold likelihood of accepting an optional diagnosis greater than 5.5 on a 0 to 11 ordinal scale was independently associated with greater symptoms of anxiety (regression coefficient [RC]=0.38, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]=0.30-0.47, P <.001), greater skepticism regarding the healthcare system (RC=0.11, 95% CI=0.076-0.13, P <.001), and delivery tones characterized by either denigration of other doctors (RC=0.39, 95% CI=0.19-0.60, P <.001) or a hopeful outlook (RC=0.50, 95% CI=0.26-0.73, P <.001). Likelihood of accepting an optional diagnosis may be a sign of relative vulnerability from feelings of distress or distrust of medical evidence. Given this potential vulnerability, clinicians can take care to limit persuasive communication styles that can influence acceptance of optional diagnoses. III prognostic.

Medical and health benefits of noise reduction at Intensive Care Units

Introduction: The presence of excessive noise poses a significant risk to the overall well-being and health of individuals. The presence of elevated noise levels within Intensive Care Units (ICUs) has the potential to exert detrimental effects on both the well-being of patients and the healthcare personnel. The aim of this study: This study aims to gather knowledge about the effects of noise pollution on patient’s wellbeing within Intensive Care Units, analyze various investigations around the world and discuss the possible preventive methods of reducing noise and thus sleep disturbances. Materials and methods: This review was based on available data collected in the PubMed database and Google Scholar web search engine using the key words Intensive Care Unit, sleep deprivation, noise pollution Conclusions: Intensive Care Unit noise disrupts patient’s sleep, communication, and increases stress, potentially leading to medical errors and longer recovery times. Addressing this issue is vital, aligning with patient-centered care and holistic therapy trends. Solutions include architectural changes, quieter equipment, staff education, clinical guidelines, and providing earplugs and eye masks for patient comfort. Noise negatively impacts sleep, causing circadian disruptions, cognitive impairments, and health issues. Identifying and mitigating noise sources can significantly enhance patient well-being and treatment outcomes.

A Study on Health-Promoting Effects of Assistive Technology.

This study evaluated the health-promoting effects of assistive technology(AT) from a holistic health perspective with the data from the rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA) survey conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in China in 2021. Through a generalized ordered logit regression, we found that AT mainly aids in the reduction of "severe impairment" in basic activities of daily living (BADL) and facilitates the attainment of "minimal impairment" in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), indicating that AT at the current stage not only serves as a tool to maintain basic survival, but also plays a crucial role in promoting overall health. Further research ascertained that the effects of assistive technology on BADL and IADL bear resemblances between two age groups but differ between urban and rural residents. Consequently, efforts must be made to enhance the supply system of AT, thereby improving social well-being for all.