Improvement In Sleep Quality Research Articles

Pep19: A Novel Approach for Reducing Visceral Fat and Improving Sleep Quality in Obese Adults—Results From an Early‐Stage Clinical Trial

ABSTRACTBackgroundConformational‐sensitive antibodies were used to identify the orally active peptide DIIADDEPLT (Pep19) as an inverse agonist of cannabinoid type 1 receptor. Pep19 safely improved metabolic parameters in murine models of diet‐induced obesity, and in healthy dogs.ObjectivesTo evaluate Pep19's impact on quality of life and body composition in obese adults, hypothesising that the metabolic effects of Pep19 observed in animal models could translate to humans.MethodsSubjects, males (n = 12) and females (n = 12), from 46 to 59 years old, weighing 91–106 kg, body mass index between 30 and 35 kg/m2, were evaluated over 60 days in a placebo‐controlled, triple‐blinded clinical trial; participants received either a placebo, 2 or 5 mg Pep19 capsules once daily at bedtime. The primary endpoint was a broad measure of quality of life assessed using validated questionnaires. The key secondary endpoints included weight loss, reduction in visceral fat (measured by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry), and changes in waist, hip, and chest measurements.ResultsPep19 was well tolerated with no reported adverse effects. Remarkable reductions in visceral fat were observed in the 5 mg Pep19 group, with a 17 ± 4.7% loss (p < 0.05), without any change in lean mass. Additionally, sleep quality improved significantly by 35 ± 10% in the 2 mg Pep19 group and 25 ± 16% in the 5 mg Pep19 group (p < 0.05). In the 5 mg Pep19 group, significant reductions in body weight and waist circumferences were also observed (p < 0.05).ConclusionDespite the limitations related to the use of convenience sampling, a small sample size, and a short intervention duration, which may restrict generalisation and health claims, Pep19 demonstrates exceptional innovative potential as a novel approach to reduce visceral fat and improve sleep quality.

Noninvasive Er:YAG Laser With SMOOTH Mode (Nightlase) for Snoring

Background: The application of laser beam photothermal effects on the mucosal tissue within the oropharynx presents a promising avenue for individuals struggling with sleep disordered breathing, potentially offering a more effective and minimally invasive solution to alleviate their symptoms and improve overall sleep quality. Objective: The aim of this retrospective review was to evaluate the effectiveness of this technique by thorough review of the Mallampati scores before and after patients underwent 4 sessions of noninvasive 2940 nm Er:YAG with SMOOTH mode (Nightlase). It will be the first reported case series within an Asian population. Methods: A retrospective review of the clinical charts of 10 consecutive patients from a single institution was performed. The patients presented with snoring and underwent 4 sessions of treatment over 16 weeks. Clinical photographs were taken before the commencement of treatment and after the completion of 4 sessions. These photographs were blinded and randomised. Four independent doctors assigned Mallampati scores to each photograph. Results: All patient reported improvement in sleep quality and a reduction in snoring following the treatment. There were no observed adverse effects. All participants reported minimal discomfort. The comparison of Mallampati scores before and after treatment provided further validation of the treatment’s effectiveness. Conclusions: Noninvasive Er:YAG Laser with SMOOTH mode (Nightlase) is a safe and effective treatment option to reduce snoring in the Asian population. Level of Evidence: Level IV

Improving Sleep Quality to Enhance Athletic Activity—The Role of Nutrition and Supplementation: A Mini-Short Review

Sleep is a fundamental part of life for all living beings. The propensity to fall asleep is regulated by a circadian rhythm, which controls the secretion of the hormone melatonin. Melatonin secretion is linked to the light and dark phases of the day/night cycle. Getting proper sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Scientific evidence shows that sleeping less than 7 h per night, or as little as 2 h per night, is a cardiovascular, metabolic, and cerebral risk factor. In addition, the role of sleep is fundamental for the recovery phase for athletes. Nutrition, supplementation, and exercise can greatly support the quality and quantity of sleep. They can have positive effects on sleep through specific physiological and biochemical responses. The objective of this short review is to critically investigate the possible sleep benefits of nutrition, exercise, and supplementation and to discuss further directions for research in this area.

Influence of Baseline Itch Severity on Treatment Outcomes With Difelikefalin in Adults With Moderate-to-Severe Pruritus Receiving Maintenance Haemodialysis: An Exploratory Analysis.

Difelikefalin is well-tolerated and reduces itch among adults undergoing haemodialysis (HD), with chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP). This study aims to explore the influence of baseline itch severity on difelikefalin treatment outcomes. Study 3105 (NCT03998163) was a 12-week, phase 3, single-arm, open-label trial assessing safety and effectiveness of difelikefalin 0.5 µg/kg. We report key endpoints from 3105 by baseline itch severity, determined using the Worst Itching Intensity Numerical Rating Scale (WI-NRS [moderate: WI-NRS < 7; severe: WI-NRS ≥ 7]). Adult participants undergoing maintenance HD (n = 222) with mild-to-moderate CKD-aP (WI-NRS score ≥ 5 at baseline). The primary endpoint of 3105 was safety; secondary endpoints included reduction in itch intensity (WI-NRS), and improvements in itch-related quality of life (QoL; 5-D itch scale) and sleep quality (Sleep Quality Numerical Rating Scale). Mean (SD) age was 57.1 (13.3) years; mean (SD) baseline WI-NRS scores were 6.0 (0.5) and 8.3 (0.9) for participants with moderate (n = 70/222) or severe (n = 152/222) itch, respectively. No treatment-related deaths occurred, and there were no safety concerns according to baseline itch severity. By week 12, both groups reported residual 'mild itch' according to mean (SD) WI-NRS scores (moderate: 2.9 [2.2]; severe: 3.1 [2.3]). Approximately one in four participants demonstrated 'complete response' in itch reduction (moderate: 27.1%; severe: 25.0%). Clinically relevant improvements in itch-related QoL and sleep quality occurred among both subgroups. Difelikefalin was well-tolerated and effective in reducing itch in participants with moderate and severe baseline itch, supporting its broad use in a range of individuals on HD with CKD-aP.

Patient satisfaction and quality of life after septoplasty in adults: literature review

Background: Septoplasty is a common surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated nasal septum and relieve symptoms of nasal obstruction. While the primary goal of the surgery is to improve nasal airflow, patient satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) have become important measures of surgical success. Understanding the impact of septoplasty on QoL is essential to optimise patients’ outcomes and refine treatment approaches. Despite its widespread use, number of high-quality studies have been limited. However, in recent years there have been a growing interest in assessing its effectiveness using objective and patient-reported outcomes. Objective: The aim of this literature review is to analyse the effectiveness of septoplasty, including the impact of septoplasty on patient satisfaction and quality of life, and to assess predictors of surgical success. State of knowledge: Septoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a deviated nasal septum to improve nasal airflow and relieve obstruction. Recent studies show, that septoplasty leads to significant improvement in nasal breathing, sleep quality, daily functioning, mental state and olfactory function. Psychological factors, preoperative expectations and degree of nasal deviation have been identified as key determinants of surgical outcome. Conclusion: Septoplasty is an effective procedure that leads to significant improvements in quality of life and general satisfaction from surgery. Several factors have been identified that influence surgical outcome including patient mental state, patient expectation, severity of septal deviation and surgical technique. To optimise results, surgeons should focus on refining surgical techniques, patient selection and management of patients’ expectations.

Development of a Qigong Used for Insomnia Therapy (QUIT) Program for Improving Sleep Quality and Blood Pressure in Chinese Women With Menopause: Pre-Post Pilot Test of Feasibility.

Around 20%-50% of Chinese menopausal women experience insomnia, which is associated with elevated blood pressure (BP). Despite this, the population remains understudied. Qigong, a simple form of Chinese exercise, has been shown to improve insomnia and BP but has not been explicitly used to address menopausal symptoms in Chinese women. This study aims to test the feasibility of a Qigong-based intervention in enhancing sleep quality and BP control in this population. This study aimed to develop and pilot test the feasibility of a culturally sensitive Qigong Used for Insomnia Therapy (QUIT) intervention in improving sleep quality and BP among Chinese menopausal women. From August 2023 to May 2024, this study used a 1-group pretest-posttest design (N=22) to evaluate the QUIT intervention. The intervention consisted of a 10-minute Qigong demonstration video, a 10-minute practice and return demonstration and a 5-minute insomnia counseling session at baseline. Participants were instructed to engage in daily 10-minute Qigong practice for 1 month. Outcome measures, including sleep quality and BP, were assessed at baseline and at the 1-month follow-up. Data on demographics were collected via self-reported questionnaires. At the end of the study, participants were interviewed using semistructured questions to assess their perception of the intervention's feasibility. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis, with interviews transcribed and coded independently by the principal investigator and research assistant. Categories related to feasibility, adherence, and barriers were identified. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0 (IBM Corp), using descriptive statistics and paired sample t tests to assess changes in sleep quality and BP, with statistical significance set at .05. The mean age of participants was 53.78 (SD 8.79, range 42-74) years. Most participants lived with relatives or friends (20/22, 91%), were employed (16/22, 73%), were married (19/22, 86%), and had at least high school education (19/22, 86%). The mean 23-item Sleep Quality Scale score significantly improved from 18.59 (SD 11.41) at baseline to 15.64 (SD 9.65; mean difference 2.96, SD 7.04; t21=1.97, P=.03) after 1 month, indicating better sleep quality (the 23-item Sleep Quality Scale was reversely scored). There was a trend toward reduced systolic BP from 115.47 (SD 14.95) at baseline to 113.59 (SD 13.93; mean difference -0.89, SD 1.64; t21=-1.15, P=.26) after 1 month. Diastolic BP also improved from 74.69 (SD 10.81) at baseline to 71.41 (SD 16.82) at 1 month (mean difference -3.28, SD 4.04; t21=-0.81, P=.43). The QUIT intervention was culturally sensitive, low-cost, and easy to implement. It showed significant improvements in sleep quality and trends toward reduced BP in Chinese menopausal women. Further investigation is recommended to further test the QUIT intervention to establish a robust program across different states. Once validated, the QUIT intervention may be implemented in various clinical settings to help Chinese menopausal women achieve optimal sleep quality and BP management.

Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Insomnia is a prevalent condition with significant impacts on quality of life, often accompanied by anxiety and depression. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has emerged as a noninvasive therapeutic option, but its efficacy and mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of taVNS on insomnia, as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and the CENTRAL data bases up to January 2025 for clinical trials comparing taVNS in patients with insomnia. This study followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Statistical analyses were performed using R version 4.3.2. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies - of Interventions and Risk Of Bias in Randomized Studies tools, and the quality of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment. The study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews under protocol CRD42025634016. Of 313 studies screened, six met the inclusion criteria and were included, encompassing a total of 336 patients. The pooled analysis showed statistically significant improvements in sleep quality and insomnia severity, as measured by PSQI (MD=-3.60; 95% CI=-4.98 to-2.22; p< 0.01; GRADE= Low evidence) and ISI (MD=-5.24; 95% CI=-9.02 to-1.46; p< 0.01; GRADE= Very low evidence) scores. Moreover, the studies reported improvements in sleep subscales, including overall sleep quality, latency, duration, and efficiency. Adverse effects were minimal and manageable, highlighting the safety profile of taVNS and supporting its potential as a well-tolerated, noninvasive treatment option for insomnia. taVNS can significantly relieve insomnia, supported by its neural and autonomic pathways modulation. These findings highlight taVNS as a promising, safe, and noninvasive treatment for insomnia, warranting further research to optimize its application and expand its use in broader populations.

Traditional Chinese exercises for the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Traditional Chinese exercises for the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for hypertension complicated by anxiety or sleep disorders: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for hypertension complicated by anxiety or sleep disorders: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

The Effect of Mattress Firmness on Sleep Architecture and PSG Characteristics.

The influence of sleep environments on sleep quality is well-established; however, the specific role of mattress design remains underexplored. Existing studies focus primarily on ergonomic aspects, such as pressure relief and spinal support, yet lack conclusive evidence linking these features to improved sleep quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of mattress firmness on sleep quality. Twelve participants with a moderate body mass index (BMI) were tested across three levels of mattress firmness: soft (32.6HA), medium (64.6HA), and firm (83.8HA). Sleep architecture and neurophysiological activity were assessed using polysomnography (PSG), with EEG-derived features, including power spectral characteristics, sleep spindle activity, and slow-wave parameters, further analyzed. Our findings indicate that a medium-firm mattress provides better sleep quality, reflected in a narrower range (Range=xmax-xmin) of sleep duration, efficiency, and sleep latency, as well as increased sleep spindle activity. A repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant effect of mattress type on sleep latency (p < 0.05, partial η²=0.26), with sleep latency being longer on the soft mattress (12.42 ± 1.94 min) than the medium mattress (7.71 ± 1.31 min, p < 0.05). Another repeated-measures ANOVA showed significant differences in stage transitions (p < 0.05, partial η²=0.32), with more transitions on the soft mattress (29.17 ± 2.35) compared to the firm mattress (21.75 ± 2.13, p < 0.05). The firm mattress yielded mixed results, suggesting suitability for some individuals but not universally. Post-sleep vigilance differences were not statistically significant. This study provides evidence that mattress firmness significantly influences sleep quality, with medium firmness offering optimal outcomes for individuals with a moderate BMI. The findings contribute to the development of scientifically informed mattress designs, including smart mattresses aimed at improving sleep quality.

Integrating Maternity Gymnastics and Effleurage Massage into Midwifery Care: A Complementary Strategy for Maternal Comfort and Efficient Labor

Background: Maternal morbidity and mortality remain significant public health challenges in Indonesia. Complications such as labor pain, sleep disturbances, and fetal malposition continue to affect maternal outcomes. Complementary therapies, including maternity gymnastics and effleurage massage, have emerged as potential strategies to enhance maternal comfort and promote efficient labor. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of integrating maternity gymnastics and effleurage massage into midwifery care on improving maternal sleep quality, fetal descent, and labor outcomes. Methods: A quasi-experimental, one-group pretest-posttest design was employed. Forty-two pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks gestation were recruited consecutively from a public health center in West Java, Indonesia. Participants engaged in weekly maternity gymnastics sessions and received effleurage massage during the first stage of labor. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and labor outcomes were recorded using a validated checklist. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and descriptive statistics. Results: There was a significant improvement in sleep quality following the intervention, with the mean PSQI score decreasing from 8.6 ± 2.1 to 5.2 ± 1.8 (p &lt; 0.001). The mean duration of the first stage of labor was 4.3 ± 1.1 hours. A high proportion of participants achieved spontaneous vaginal delivery (90.5%), and early fetal head engagement at admission was observed in 83.3% of cases. Labor pain intensity was moderate, with a mean Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score of 5.7 ± 1.4. Conclusion: Integrating maternity gymnastics and effleurage massage into midwifery care effectively improved maternal sleep quality, facilitated fetal engagement, and promoted shorter labor duration. These findings support the incorporation of complementary therapies into routine antenatal and intrapartum care to enhance maternal comfort and optimize labor outcomes.

The effect of chronic yoga interventions on sleep quality in people with sleep disorders: a scoping review.

Poor or insufficient sleep adversely affects various physiological and psychological functions, impacting body systems such as the endocrine, metabolic, and immune systems. Despite available pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, the impact of chronic yoga interventions on sleep quality in individuals with sleep problem syndrome remains underexplored. This scoping review aims to consolidate existing research on yoga interventions and their effects on sleep quality, providing evidence for yoga as a non-pharmacological alternative to reduce reliance on medications. A systematic search across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus identified 1,559 studies, with 57 meeting inclusion criteria for yoga's effects on sleep quality. Overall, the included studies reported either significant improvements in sleep quality (or related) parameters or no change. Moderator analyses revealed that intervention duration and session frequency can influence sleep outcomes. Short-duration interventions (≤6 weeks) showed a large mean effect on sleep quality (9.41%; 95% CI 3.06 to 15.42%), with 54% of studies reporting statistically significant improvements. Medium-duration interventions (7-16 weeks) demonstrated consistent benefits, including a large mean effect on sleep quality (8.74%; 95% CI 2.93 to 14.55%) and a very large reduction in insomnia severity (13.19%; 95% CI 11.10 to 15.98%). However, sleep efficiency exhibited smaller effects (0.73%; 95% CI -1.99 to 3.45%). Long-duration interventions (≥17 weeks) produced the most robust results, with 100% of the studies reporting significant improvements, including a 7.92% increase in sleep quality (95% CI 3.23 to 12.60%). With regard to session frequency, low-frequency sessions (1-2 per week) yielded significant improvements in insomnia severity (13.66%; 95% CI 8.72 to 18.59%) and sleep quality (8.13%; 95% CI 2.67 to 13.59%). Moderate-frequency sessions (3-4 per week) balanced accessibility and efficacy, producing a large mean effect on sleep quality (9.21%; 95% CI 3.66 to 14.76%). High-frequency sessions (≥5 per week) demonstrated a similarly large effect on sleep quality (8.24%; 95% CI 2.28 to 14.20%), although the data were limited. Tailoring yoga interventions by duration and frequency is valuable, with chronic practice offering a safe, effective alternative to medication. Future research should refine protocols for specific populations and sleep challenges.

Design and Delivery of a Holistic Three-Day Post-COVID-19 Psychological Intervention for Care Staff in the UK as Part of Stage 2 Health Psychology Training

As part of achieving Chartered status in Health Psychology in the UK one has to create an online intervention. This study showcases such an intervention to support care workers by addressing stress management, mindfulness, resilience, and sleep hygiene. The delivery of the intervention was via Microsoft Teams and it focused on a) psychoeducation, b) mindfulness, c) resilience-building, d) and peer support. The intervention assessments included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Quality of life scale (EQ-5D), and the Visual Analog Mood Scale (VAS). The results demonstrated a reduction in stress and an improvement in sleep quality and mood; however no statistical significance in quality of life was observed. Qualitative feedback highlighted the benefits of psychoeducation, mindfulness training, and the buddy system. Staff reported a greater awareness over their stress, improved sleep hygiene and a sense of connection with colleagues. Despite the short duration the intervention was positively received, suggesting that structured targeted interventions can be beneficial for front-line care workers and can be created by small organisations. Future research should explore extending the intervention’s duration and incorporating follow-up support to enhance long-term effectiveness as well as training guidance for in-house teams.

Does botulinum toxin type A treatment influence non-motor symptoms in cervical dystonia patients? A systematic review.

The effect of botulinum toxin A (BoNTA) on non-motor symptoms (NMS) in patients with cervical dystonia remains an area of significant clinical interest, given the profound impact of these symptoms on patients' quality of life. While the therapeutic efficacy of BoNTA in alleviating motor symptoms of cervical dystonia is well established, its impact on NMS such as depression, anxiety disorder, and sleep disturbance requires further investigation. This systematic review synthesizes the latest evidence on the effects of BoNTA on these selected non-motor symptoms. A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases identified 266 articles, of which eight studies met our strict inclusion criteria. Pre- and post-intervention changes in depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance were assessed in a total of 280 adult patients with cervical dystonia treated with BoNTA. The results indicate that BoNTA has a positive effect on depressive symptoms, with most studies showing a statistically significant improvement after treatment. Similarly, studies are reporting significant reductions in anxiety scores following BoNTA treatment. However, the effects of this treatment method on sleep disturbances were less conclusive, with none of the reviewed studies showing significant improvements in sleep quality or daytime sleepiness. The results highlight the potential of BoNTA to positively influence non-motor symptoms, particularly depression and anxiety, in patients with cervical dystonia, although its effects on sleep remain unclear. These findings underscore the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the non-motor effects of BoNTA and to develop comprehensive treatment strategies.

Improving Sleep Quality and Blood Pressure Through Warm Foot Soak in the Elderly

Improving Sleep Quality and Blood Pressure Through Warm Foot Soak in the Elderly

Human Papillomavirus and Thyroid Cancer: Transformative Insights Into Postoperative Interventions and Sleep Quality Improvement: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis

Context: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a well-established oncogenic virus implicated in cervical, oropharyngeal, and anogenital malignancies. Emerging evidence suggests its potential role in thyroid cancer pathogenesis. Patients with thyroid cancer frequently experience obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which may be exacerbated by thyroid dysfunction. Thyroidectomy has been reported to improve sleep quality; however, the interplay between HPV infection, thyroid cancer progression, and postoperative sleep improvements remains inadequately understood. This meta-analysis systematically evaluates the impact of thyroidectomy on sleep parameters in thyroid cancer patients, with a specific focus on those affected by HPV. Objectives: To quantify the effects of thyroidectomy on sleep quality in patients with thyroid cancer, particularly those with HPV infection. This study assesses improvements in key OSA indicators, including the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and nocturnal oxygen saturation, while elucidating the clinical implications of the HPV-thyroid cancer association. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between January 2010 and December 2024. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and case-control studies evaluating postoperative sleep outcomes in thyroid cancer patients with documented HPV status. Two independent reviewers conducted data extraction and quality assessment, resolving discrepancies through consensus. The methodological rigor of the included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Cochrane risk of bias tool. A meta-analysis was performed using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model, with heterogeneity assessed via Cochran’s Q and I2 statistics. Publication bias was examined using funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results: Out of 203 screened records, 11 studies (comprising 1,432 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Thyroidectomy led to statistically and clinically significant improvements in sleep quality. The mean preoperative AHI of 42.8 ± 8.6 declined to 36.6 ± 8.4 postoperatively (Hedges’ g = -0.38, 95% CI: -0.67 to -0.09, P = 0.01), reflecting a moderate yet meaningful improvement in OSA severity. Daytime sleepiness showed a substantial reduction, with ESS scores decreasing from 15.3 ± 4.7 to 7.5 ± 6.07, demonstrating a marked enhancement in daily functioning. The HPV infection was associated with a 2.2-fold increased risk of thyroid cancer (OR = 2.199, 95% CI: 1.31 - 3.23, P &lt; 0.05), reinforcing its potential role in thyroid carcinogenesis. Moderate heterogeneity was observed in OSA-related outcomes (I2 = 59.27%, P = 0.01), while the HPV-thyroid cancer association displayed minimal heterogeneity (I2 = 0.00%, P = 0.64). Conclusions: Thyroidectomy significantly enhances sleep quality in thyroid cancer patients, with notable reductions in AHI and ESS scores, underscoring its clinical benefit. The strong association between HPV and thyroid cancer highlights the potential necessity of HPV screening in thyroid cancer risk assessment and postoperative surveillance. These findings advocate for the consideration of HPV as a modifiable risk factor, warranting further research into tailored screening protocols and refined postoperative strategies to optimize patient outcomes.

Vetiver and Orange Blossom Aid in Lowering Blood Pressure and Heart Rate and Improving Sleep Quality.

Aromatherapy has emerged as a prominent therapeutic modality, particularly for individuals grappling with insomnia and stress. This study delves into the sleep patterns of a general population and evaluates the impact of 3 distinct essential oils over a 4 to 6-week period. The study rigorously assesses changes in sleep quality and various cardiovascular parameters before and after the utilization of these essential oils. A total of 67 participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire and expressed their willingness to partake in the experiment through an online platform. Subsequently, the participants underwent comprehensive measurements of cardiovascular and autonomic nervous system parameters. Following random assignment into 1 of 3 groups, the subjects diligently used the prescribed essential oils for the specified duration. A posttest was conducted to meticulously document the changes in cardiovascular and autonomic nervous system parameters, as well as the PSQI scale. The 3 essential oils employed were lavender, vetiver, and orange blossom, with 21, 18, and 17 participants, respectively. The experimental findings revealed a noteworthy reduction in PSQI scores after 4 to 6weeks of using vetiver and orange blossom essential oils. The scores decreased from 7.92 (3.55) and 8.32 (3.71) to 6.08 (3.30, P =.007) and 6.47 (2.20, P =.042), respectively. This reduction was even more pronounced among subjects with initial PSQI scores of 5 or higher. Furthermore, the utilization of vetiver and orange blossom essential oils demonstrated a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (SYS) over the 4 to 6-week period. Vetiver SYS levels decreased from 108.39 (5.67) to 105.33 (5.93) (P =.0016), and orange blossom SYS levels decreased from 110.53 (9.49) to 108.18 (9.49) (P =.0414). In addition, the heart rate of the vetiver group also exhibited a significant decrease from 78.33 (12.06) to 76.00 (12.06) (P =.0342). Thus, the results strongly suggest that vetiver and orange blossom essential oils contribute to the reduction of blood pressure, heart rate, and the enhancement of sleep quality, particularly in individuals experiencing sleep disturbances. These findings align with previous research on the soothing effects of essential oils and their potential in promoting both cardiovascular and sleep-related well-being.

A chain mediating model of the impact of physical exercise on sleep quality

BackgroundIn the fast-paced modern life, sleep quality has become a key indicator for measuring individual health and quality of life. The mechanisms by which physical exercise influences sleep quality through psychological and behavioral pathways, particularly via smartphone dependence, remain underexplored.ObjectiveTo investigate the mediating roles of mobile phone dependence and sleep duration in the relationship between physical exercise and sleep quality, using a chain mediation model.MethodsA questionnaire survey was conducted on 1905 college students, and data were processed using Pearson correlation analysis and structural equation modeling.ResultsMobile phone dependence significantly mediated the relationship between physical exercise and sleep quality, with an effect size of 0.036 (p < 0.05), accounting for 27% of the total effect. Additionally, mobile phone dependence and sleep duration jointly mediated the relationship, with an effect size of 0.013 (p < 0.05), accounting for 10% of the total effect.ConclusionPhysical exercise not only directly improves sleep quality but also indirectly promotes the improvement of sleep quality by reducing mobile phone dependence and increasing sleep duration. This study innovatively identifies a chain mediation mechanism, offering empirical support for designing integrated interventions targeting both behavioral addiction and sleep physiology in college populations.

Cryotherapy Is Effective in Nulliparous Women with Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Primary dysmenorrhea is a prevalent condition causing severe menstrual pain in nulliparous women, negatively impacting daily functioning and well-being. This randomized controlled trial investigated the efficacy of cryotherapy in alleviating pain and enhancing secondary outcomes such as sleep quality, quality of life, and physical activity. Fifty-eight nulliparous women were randomly assigned to a cryotherapy group or a control group. Pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale, whereas secondary outcomes were evaluated with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Socioeconomic factors, including household income, education, and occupation, were also assessed. Cryotherapy significantly reduced pain intensity from a baseline of 7.1 ± 1.4 to 1.8 ± 1.7 (p < 0.001) compared with a modest reduction in the control group (5.9 ± 1.9-5.4 ± 2.1). Sleep quality improved more in the cryotherapy group (6.90 ± 3.0 to 5.03 ± 2.5) than in the control group (6.88 ± 3.6 to 5.68 ± 2.8). However, no statistically significant changes were observed in the quality of life or physical activity levels, likely because menstrual pain alone may not sufficiently influence these domains, which are affected by broader psychosocial and behavioral factors. These findings demonstrate that cryotherapy is a simple, cost-effective intervention for managing primary dysmenorrhea, providing substantial pain relief and modest improvements in sleep quality. Further research is recommended to evaluate its long-term benefits and potential for broader applications in menstrual health management.

UK medical cannabis registry: an updated clinical outcomes analysis of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder

ABSTRACT Background Cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) are a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but their long-term efficacy and safety need further investigation. This study assessed the changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and adverse events in PTSD patients prescribed CBMPs. Research design and methods This observational cohort study included PTSD patients enrolled on the UK Medical Cannabis Registry for 18 months or longer. Changes in PTSD-specific symptoms (IES-R), anxiety (GAD-7), sleep quality (SQS), and general HRQoL (EQ-5D-5 L) were assessed at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. Results In 269 patients, significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, sleep quality, and HRQoL were observed at all follow-up points (p < 0.001). On multivariate logistic regression, male gender (OR = 0.51; 95% CI:0.28–0.94; p = 0.034) was associated with a reduced chance of reporting improvements in IES-R. Adverse events were reported by 70 (26.02%) patients, with insomnia (n = 42, 15.61%) and fatigue (n = 40, 14.87%) being the most common. Conclusions CBMPs were associated with improvements in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, sleep, and HRQoL at up to 18 months. Although the study’s observational nature limits causal conclusions, these findings support further assessment of medical cannabis. Trial registration This is an observational study and is not registered as a clinical trial.