Integration Therapy Research Articles

Photodynamic Therapy for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Current Status, Challenges, and Prospects.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent and deadly malignancy of the head and neck. The standard treatments for OSCC are surgery, radiotherapy, and chemoradiotherapy, which can cause severe cosmetic and functional damage to the oral cavity and impair the patients' quality of life. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising alternative that uses light-activated photosensitizers to induce selective phototoxicity and necrosis in the target tissues. PDT has several advantages over conventional treatments, such as minimal invasion, low side effects, high selectivity and preservation of the oral function and appearance. This review explores the principles, mechanisms, and current applications of PDT for OSCC. We address the challenges, such as the depth of light penetration and tissue hypoxia, and underscore the progressive innovations in photosensitizer enhancement, nanotechnological integration, and precision therapy. The exploration of biomarkers for refining patient selection and tailoring individualized treatment regimens is also undertaken. PDT holds promise as a secure and efficacious modality for OSCC management. Nonetheless, additional investigation is imperative to refine treatment protocols and validate sustained therapeutic success.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Latest Advances in Treatment

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition marked by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviours. Despite the global prevalence of ASD, its diagnosis and treatment remain challenging due to the absence of specific biomarkers and the heterogeneity of symptoms. ASD is incurable and current management options aim to minimize the symptoms and maximize the patients’ ability to function. There is no one standardized treatment for ASD at present, recommended medical interventions involve various therapies which include cognitive behavioral therapy alongside additional personalized pharmacological symptomatic treatments. New approach for ASD management includes sensory integration therapy (SIT) as well as dietary interventions, like gluten-free, casein-free and ketogenic diets. Other innovative treatment strategies are targeted at gut microbiome and include probiotic treatment and fecal microbiota transplant. In this review possible genetic variants associated with ASD are discussed as well as their influence on the manifestation and management of clinical symptoms. For a better understanding on how genetic variables impact drug effectiveness in individuals and the importance of pharmacogenetics in ASD. This paper aims to explore the available and possible treatment options as well the genetic components associated with ASD. In summary, this paper reviews the current and emerging treatment options for ASD.

Perceived Impact of Sensory Integration Therapy on the Family

Background: Many children with sensory processing differences receive occupational therapy services using sensory integration therapy (SIT). Studies exist to demonstrate the effects of this intervention on the child receiving the service. However, children exist as part of a family unit. There is limited research to examine the effect of SIT on the family. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of caregivers as to the impact on families of children who received SIT. Methodology: Qualitative, phenomenological methodology was utilized. Results: Results revealed four themes: family routines, parent response/reaction to sensory, modified participation in family activities needs, and improved regulation leading to increased family participation outside the home. Conclusion: This study indicates that parents perceive positive effects on participation of the family unit and for the child receiving SIT therapy.

The Impact of Diet on Body Composition in a Cohort of Pediatric and Adult Patients with Maple Syrup Urine Disease.

The treatment for Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) consists of a hypoproteic diet with integration therapy to limit leucine intake, ensuring adequate energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients to prevent catabolism and promote anabolism. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study at the Metabolic Rare Disease Unit, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy. Patients with MSUD who were over 3 years old, not treated with liver transplantation, and who provided written consent, were included. The study aimed to describe the dietary treatment of patients with MSUD, evaluate growth data, and analyze the effect of a low-protein and semi-synthetic diet on body composition. Data on height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, food intake, physical activity, and DEXA scans were collected. Thirteen subjects (11 classic MSUD, 2 intermediate MSUD) were included, of which 5 < 18 years old. Results indicated that patients with MSUD follow a balanced diet and have body compositions like healthy subjects in terms of fat and lean mass. A high incidence of osteopenia was observed from a young age, with a positive correlation between protein intake and lean mass and a negative correlation between BCAA-free mixture consumption and bone mineral density z-score. The study highlights the positive effects and potential consequences of the semi-synthetic diet on the body composition of patients with MSUD. A similar study involving all Italian metabolic centers treating MSUD is recommended.

Impact of Sensory Integration Therapy on Family Participation &amp; Dynamics

Abstract Date Presented 03/21/24 Sensory integration (SI) therapy is a common intervention used by OT practitioners. This qualitative study looks beyond the impact of SI on the child to examine how SI therapy affects family dynamics as a whole. Primary Author and Speaker: Brooklyn Osborne Additional Authors and Speakers: Aimee Piller, Jessica McHugh Conlin

Evaluating the Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using the Autism Behavior Checklist.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder typically manifesting before the age of three years, characterized by significant impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of interests and activities. In our study, we assessed the benefits of sensory integration therapy in children with ASDusing the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), focusing on improvements in sensory processing, relationship-building, language skills, and social and self-care abilities. The study was conducted with 40 children aged three to nine years, diagnosed with ASD, and whose parents provided consent for their participation in therapy between December 2022 and March 2023 at the Private Adana Metro Hospital Child Psychiatry Clinic. The ages and genders of the patients were recorded. Before occupational therapy, after five sessions of occupational therapy, and after 10 sessions of occupational therapy, the ABC test was administered under the supervision of a child psychiatrist and an occupational therapist. The results were recorded, and statistical analyses were performed. In the ABC test conducted after 10 sessions, a decreasing trend was observed in sensory, relationship-building, body and object usage, language skills, social and self-care, and total scale scores compared to pre-occupational therapy test scores (p < 0.000). Occupational therapy improves sensory skills, relationship-building skills, body and object usage abilities, language skills, and social and self-care skills.

Vitamin C Supplementation in the Treatment of Autoimmune and Onco-Hematological Diseases: From Prophylaxis to Adjuvant Therapy.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin introduced through the diet with anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory, and antioxidant activities. Today, this vitamin is integrated into the treatment of many inflammatory pathologies. However, there is increasing evidence of possible use in treating autoimmune and neoplastic diseases. We reviewed the literature to delve deeper into the rationale for using vitamin C in treating this type of pathology. There is much evidence in the literature regarding the beneficial effects of vitamin C supplementation for treating autoimmune diseases such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and neoplasms, particularly hematological neoplastic diseases. Vitamin C integration regulates the cytokines microenvironment, modulates immune response to autoantigens and cancer cells, and regulates oxidative stress. Moreover, integration therapy has an enhanced effect on chemotherapies, ionizing radiation, and target therapy used in treating hematological neoplasm. In the future, integrative therapy will have an increasingly important role in preventing pathologies and as an adjuvant to standard treatments.

Research Trend Analysis of Community-based Occupational Therapy in Korea through Key Word Network Analysis

Objectives: For this study, we analyzed research trends of community-based occupational therapy in Korea using key word network analysis (KNA). Methods: Our sample was 155 studies in the Journal of the Korean Society of Community-Based Occupational Therapy in Korea. We used key word network analysis (KNA), a method used to examine the flow and trends of research by using key words that represent the core topics of the literature, allowing for the identification of relationships, influence, and importance of key topics in a specific field. The analysis was divided into 2 parts – network distribution and centrality. Indicators for network distribution include average degree, density, mean distance, inclusiveness, and the number of isolated nodes. Network centrality is assessed through degree centrality, betweenness centrality, and eigenvector centrality. Results: The analysis of network distribution indicated that the average degree was 7.064, density was .024 (2.4%), mean distance was 3.195, and there were no isolated nodes. Key words with the highest degree centrality values were occupational therapy, stroke, elderly, quality of life, activity of daily living, and occupational therapist. Key words with the highest betweenness centrality values were occupational therapy, stroke, quality of life, elderly, occupational therapist, and depression. Key words with the highest eigenvector centrality values were curriculum, service provider qualification, sensory integration therapy, sensory developmental rehabilitation, developmental rehabilitation service, and program development. Conclusions: These results have important academic implications regarding the research trend of community-based occupational therapy in Korea. These findings can enhance understanding of community-based occupational therapy and provide guidance for future studies. Particularly, the analysis results of degree centrality and cohesion structure offer insights into various aspects of occupational therapy, facilitating the development of more effective treatment approaches. It is anticipated that these results will contribute to practical value in clinical settings.

Unraveling the Spectrum: A Comprehensive Review of Autism Spectrum Disorder in India.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors that profoundly impact the lives of affected individuals and their families. This article provides a comprehensive overview of ASD, focusing on screening, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. Early signs of ASD can manifest in infancy, but parents may not recognize them until their child falls behind in meeting social milestones. This delay in recognition is often due to a lack of awareness, societal stigma, and limited knowledge about developmental and behavioral disorders. Globally, ASD prevalence is increasingpotentially due to broader diagnostic criteria, increased awareness, and improved screening practices. Screening for ASD is crucial for early identification and intervention. Various tools are available such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHATs), Trivandrum Autism Behavioral Checklist (TABC), and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Diagnosing ASD involves using established criteria such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and specific diagnostic tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Indian Scale for the Assessment of Autism (ISAA). Interventions for ASD should be multidisciplinary, involving professionals such as developmental pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, special educators, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and social workers. Applied behavior analysis (ABA), naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions (NDBIs), and parent-mediated treatment are among the evidence-based approaches. Additionally, speech-language therapy, motor therapy, and sensory integration therapy play vital roles in addressing the diverse needs of individuals with ASD. Medical interventions should be used alongside behavioral and environmental strategies. Early screening, accurate diagnosis, and tailored interventions are essential for improving the lives of individuals with ASD. A multidisciplinary approach and increased awareness are crucial in addressing the growing prevalence of ASD worldwide.

Sexual Integration Therapy: a sex-positive sexual health model supporting authentic sexual expression, while addressing sexual compulsivity, shame, fear and trauma

Sexual Integration Therapy (SIT) is a client-centered sexual health model that focuses on the holistic integration of authentic sexuality and pleasure. SIT prioritizes working with clients to resolve the impact of sexual shame, fear, and past traumas that interfere with pleasurable sexual expression. While some clients may find pathology or addiction-based models helpful for their sexual concerns, SIT supports those who do not find solely cognitive-behavioral pathology, nor addiction treatment models effective. Through an examination of the evolution of psychology’s problematic, subjective codifications of normal versus abnormal, paraphilic, or deviant sexuality, the authors demonstrate the potential risks of diagnostic pathologization. SIT moves beyond such problematic pathology-based diagnostic models and redefines normal sexuality as uniquely personal. The authors then detail how SIT builds upon recent sexual health models to shift the therapeutic paradigm and better address individualized desires, compulsive behaviors, or inhibitions, not supported by standardized therapeutic models.

Ethnopharmacological Survey of the Iranian Coastline of Makran Based on the Unani Medicine

Background:: Makran is a semi-desert coastal strip that extends from southeastern Iran to Baluchestan, Pakistan, on the coast of the Oman Sea. This region has a special place in the country and enjoys the cultural diversity of the Baluch people. Aim:: As no specific ethnopharmacological data are available for the Makran coastline, the present work was undertaken to document and analyze traditional knowledge of medicinal approaches used by Baluch communities (Chabahar and Konarak counties) during 2021-2023 in the Sistan and Baluchestan province. Methods:: Data were collected through direct observations during comprehensive field surveys, comprehensive questionnaires, and interviews with local traditional practitioners, herbal healers, and grocery and itinerant sellers of medicinal plants and minerals. Results:: Because of its strategic location, ethnomedicine knowledge of this area has been influenced by Indian and Pakistani medicine and has been endowed with a marvelous diversity of therapeutic approaches, such as Unani or Ayurvedic systems of traditional medication for the treatment of different diseases. Herbal integration, mineral (kushtas), mud, and music and heat therapy are examples of medicinal approaches utilized in the study area. A total of 74 potential medicinal plants belonging to 41 families and 6 mineral drugs have been identified to be traditionally used for remedial measures against special diseases. The inventory of medicinal plants showed that Fabaceae, Solanaceae, and Malvaceae dominated other plant families. Out of the total documented species in this area, some species were used as medicine in at least two or further forms in the local communities. The results have shown that musculoskeletal (SKE-L), digestive (GAS-D), and respiratory (RES-R) diseases have high ICF (&gt;0.90). In terms of temperament, 37% of the medicinal plants used in this region have been found to be hot and dry, 28% hot and moist, and 25% cold and dry. Also, 77% of the medicinal plants have been found to have two degrees of toxicity. Spearman's correlation showed a moderate correlation between temperament and phytochemical compounds (r=0.31). Comparing our data with ethnopharmacological references in Iran revealed that applications of minerals (kushtas) have not been investigated in other provinces and are significant in this region. Conclusion:: The culture of the coast of Makran is rich in the local knowledge of traditional medicine. In addition to herbal medicines, mineral substances are also used in this area, which are a good source for the treatment of various ailments. The Unani medical system and the composition of herbal medicine (multi-ingredients) are the main features of medicinal methods used at the Makran coastline. The variety of treatment methods used by the Baluch people can suggest a suitable candidate for finding drugs.

The effects of sensory integration on stereotypy of preschool students with autism

AbstractThe purpose of the current study was to systematically replicate the independent variable used in Moore et al.'s (2015) experiment using sensory integration therapy (SIT) as a treatment for automatically maintained stereotypy. According to sensory integration theory, providing certain sensory experiences to individuals with autism can change their repetitive behavior. Despite the lack of research supporting SIT as a valid treatment to reduce episodes of stereotypy in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it remains a common treatment in most schools and centers designed for these individuals. The study was conducted with three preschool students with ASD using a multiple baseline design across participants to test for a functional relation between the independent variable, the participants' individualized, prescribed sensory diets and the dependent variable, their episodes of stereotypy in morning and afternoon sessions. The results do not support the use of a sensory diet as a treatment for stereotypy.

Occupational therapy interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders - a Rapid Review

Introduction: This rapid review aimed to synthesise evidence for occupational therapy intervention in the management of autism spectrum disorders. The review forms part of a series of rapid reviews commissioned by the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa to help inform decision making as South Africa prepares for a new health system.&#x0D; Method: Level I and II research studies published from 2017 - 2022 were considered for inclusion. Electronic database searches were conducted on the Cochrane database. The identified records were screened in Rayyan according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality assessment of the selected articles was done with the CASP appraisal tool. Data were extracted to a custom Microsoft Excel® worksheet and analysed quantitatively by percentage/frequency and qualitatively by thematic analysis of statements.&#x0D; Results: Thirty-eight records were selected. These included 30 systematic reviews and eight randomised controlled trials. Twelve intervention domains across four age groups were identified with sensory integration and social skills interventions most frequently examined. Interventions were delivered across various venues, including mediation and technology (e.g., telehealth interventions). A number of different outcome measures were used.&#x0D; Conclusion: There is evidence to support the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan for twelve different domains.&#x0D; Implications for practice&#x0D; &#x0D; Occupational Therapists are involved in the provision of therapy intervention across all age groups for people with ASD.&#x0D; Intervention can successfully take place in a clinic setting, but also at home or through means of technology.&#x0D; There is growing evidence for sensory integration therapy or techniques when considering functional outcomes when treating people with ASD.&#x0D; There is a lack of Level I and II research in the form of randomised control trials and systematic reviews regarding ASD intervention in sub-Saharan Africa.&#x0D; &#x0D;

Assessment of factors influencing the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy in preschool and early school-aged children

Objective. The aim of the study was to assess the factors influencing the effectiveness of sensory integration (SI) therapy in children with sensory processing disorders (SPD). Materials and Methods. The research involved 49 children, aged 3 to 10 years, diagnosed with SPD. The study was conducted at the "Plastuś" Sensory Integration Clinics in Lodz. The research tools included acustomized questionnaire and the Sensory-Motor Questionnaire according to Z. Przyrowski. Results. The therapy showed the most significant improvement in the areas of smell (93%) and vision (69%). Progress in treatment related to muscle tension, function of the vestibular system with hyposensitivity, and coordination was affected by the examined children's age. Upon termination of SI therapy, 16% of patients showed no risk of SPD. Conclusions. SI therapy proved to be most successful in the areas of smell, vision, touch, and the hyposensitivity of the vestibular system, with the most significant correlations in progress observed between hearing, attention, and behavioral patterns. Therapy resulted in reduction in the number of areas at risk of SPD, and progress in treatment was influenced by age, the onset of walking, chronic illnesses, and the week of childbirth.

Lifespan integration therapy: Patients’ discourse about outcomes and integration feeling

ObjectivesLifespan Integration (LI) therapy is a relatively recent mind-body psychotherapy, primarily developed to help survivors in the treatment of trauma. The therapy resets integration, a high-level process promoting mental health, well-being, and flexible adaptation to the environment. This study aims to explore the perception of LI outcomes and “integration feeling” through LI patients’ perspectives. MethodTwelve patients were recruited via LI-certified therapists and took part in an interview (50 % men; mean age 45.1 years; with therapies lasting 1–5 years). Each interview was conducted using a guide, and discourse was analyzed using a general inductive approach (interjudge fidelity = 0.750). ResultsThe analysis revealed six salient themes: relation to oneself (including well-being, self-acceptance, self-consciousness, self-knowledge, self-care, self-image, and self-sufficiency), skills (emotional regulation, self-determination, and parenting skills), relation to others (involving relational openness, authenticity, independence, acceptance of others, and social connections readjustment), relation to reality (change in perspective and acceptance of reality), integration feeling (unification, appeasement, strength, reconnection and focusing), process (effectiveness perception, sensations, disorganization, non-linear evolution, commitment to therapy, trust with therapist, and difficulty of observing changes), and symptomatic improvement (depression, anxiety, substance use, and other symptoms). ConclusionThis study highlights the processes that improve LI therapy efficacy according to patients. More generally, it sheds some light on the integration process and its consequences underlying the unity of identity and consciousness.

Effectiveness of sensory integration therapy in children, focusing on Korean children: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Sensory integration intervention is highly related to the child's effective interaction with the environment and the child's development. Currently, various sensory integration interventions are being applied, but research methodological problems are arising due to unsystematic protocols. This study aims to present the optimal intervention protocol by presenting scientific standards for sensory integration intervention through meta-analysis. To prove the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy, examine the latest trend of sensory integration studies in Korea, and provide clinical evidence for sensory integration therapies. The database of Korean search engines, including RISS, KISS, and DBpia, was used to search for related literature published from 2001 to October 2020. The keywords, "Children", "Sensory integration", "Integrated sensory", "Sensory-motor", and "Sensory stimulation" were used in this search. Then, a meta-analysis was conducted on 24 selected studiesRISS, KISS, and DBpia, was used to search for related literature published from 2001 to October 2020. The keywords, "Children", "Sensory integration", "Integrated sensory", "Sensory-motor", and "Sensory stimulation" were used in this search. Then, a meta-analysis was conducted on 24 selected studies. Sensory integration intervention has been proven effective in children with cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, developmental disorder, and intellectual disability in relation to the diagnosis of children. Regarding sensory integration therapies, 1:1 individual treatment with a therapist or a therapy session lasting for 40 min was most effective. In terms of dependent variables, sensory integration therapy effectively promoted social skills, adaptive behavior, sensory processing, and gross motor and fine motor skills. The results of this study may be used as therapeutic evidence for sensory integration intervention in the clinical field of occupational therapy for children, and can help to present standards for sensory integration intervention protocols.

Proses Terapi Sensori Integrasi Pada Anak Autis Dalam Meningkatkan Interaksi Sosial Di Pusat Terapi Autis Yasmin

Sensory Integration Therapy is an approach that focuses on sensory stimulation to improve sensory processing and adaptive responses in individuals with sensory disorders, one of which is children with autism. Sensory integration therapy makes it easier for autistic children to communicate to be better understood and to create good social interactions. Therefore, the Yasmin Autism Therapy Center carries out Sensory Integration Therapy to improve social interaction in autistic children. This research aims to determine the application of sensory integration therapy at the Yasmin Autism Therapy Center to improve social interaction in autistic children and determine the obstacles in implementing sensory integration therapy. Data collection techniques include documentation, observation and interviews. The results of the research show that the stages of Sensory Integration Therapy at the Yasmin Autism Therapy Center are providing simple instructions, a series of sequential activities and honing concentration, consistency and endurance in activities through play. Supporting factors for sensory therapy activities include good collaboration between therapists and parents. Meanwhile, the obstacles to children's communication are difficult factors, limited therapy tools, and limited therapy time.

Exploring critical intervention features and trial processes in the evaluation of sensory integration therapy for autistic children

BackgroundWe evaluated the clinical and cost-effectiveness of manualised sensory integration therapy (SIT) for autistic children with sensory processing difficulties in a two-arm randomised controlled trial. Trial processes and contextual factors which may have affected intervention outcomes were explored within a nested process evaluation. This paper details the process evaluation methods and results. We also discuss implications for evaluation of individual level, tailored interventions in similar populations.MethodsThe process evaluation was conducted in line with Medical Research Council guidance. Recruitment, demographics, retention, adherence, and adverse effects are reported using descriptive statistics. Fidelity of intervention delivery is reported according to the intervention scoring manual. Qualitative interviews with therapists and carers were undertaken to explore the acceptability of the intervention and trial processes. Qualitative interviews with carers explored potential contamination.ResultsRecruitment, reach and retention within the trial met expected thresholds. One hundred thirty-eight children and carers were recruited (92% of those screened and 53.5% of those who expressed an interest) with 77.5% retained at 6 months and 69.9% at 12 months post-randomisation. The intervention was delivered with structural and process fidelity with the majority (78.3%) receiving a ‘sufficient dose’ of intervention. However, there was considerable individual variability in the receipt of sessions. Carers and therapists reported that trial processes were generally acceptable though logistical challenges such as appointment times, travel and COVID restrictions were frequent barriers to receiving the intervention. No adverse effects were reported.ConclusionsThe process evaluation was highly valuable in identifying contextual factors that could impact the effectiveness of this individualised intervention. Rigorous evaluations of interventions for autistic children are important, especially given the limitations such as limited sample sizes and short-term follow-up as faced by previous research. One of the challenges lies in the variability of outcomes considered important by caregivers, as each autistic child faces unique challenges. It is crucial to consider the role of parents or other caregivers in facilitating access to these interventions and how this may impact effectiveness.Trial registrationThis trial is registered as ISRCTN14716440. August 11, 2016.

The effectiveness of eye movement integration therapy into practical application

The effectiveness of eye movement integration therapy into practical application

Reflex Integration Therapy: A Novel Approach to Rehabilitation Policy Issues in International and Ukrainian Context

Reflex Integration Therapy: A Novel Approach to Rehabilitation Policy Issues in International and Ukrainian Context